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ewish ouisville J L Inside: Yellow Fever lesson Jews have handled pandemics before community p. 4 FRIDAY Vol. 46, No. 04 | April 24, 2020 | 30 Nisan 5780 Federation starts emergency fund, calls for unity By staff and releases The Federation has launched the and support for long-term viability. United Jewish Louisville Rapid Re- We know that many of you want sponse Fund, an emergency answer to to help. You can do so by volunteer- the coronavirus pandemic and the toll ing or donating. As our needs grow in it is taking on our Jewish community. the future, many volunteer opportuni- Thanks to a lead gift from the Jewish ties will become available to assist the Heritage Fund for Excellence (JHFE) agencies and synagogues. Please visit we were able to jump-start this urgent the Rapid Response web page to add campaign. Agencies and synagogues all The banner for the new United Jewish Louisville Rapid Response Fund your name to the volunteer list. came together working to understand “It is vital that the families and indi- the immediate, short- and long-term social isolation. munity. This may include individu- viduals who are struggling with the im- needs of our community. Ralph Green, task force co-chair, als who can’t afford food or pay their pact of COVID-19 have a place to ask Contact www.jewishlouisville.org/ said, “We knew when all this started to bills. Also, essential errands, home for and receive help,” said Sara Klein RapidResponseFund for details. intensify that our community was go- health care and mental health ser- Wagner, CEO and president of the JCL. “This collective effort will provide ing to need some emergency relief.” vices. “We anticipate the needs will continue support to families and individuals and To steward the Rapid Response • Jewish connection – Now more to evolve over time; therefore, we are those on the front line serving our Jew- Fund, the Federation convened a spe- than ever, we know virtual connec- focusing on immediate, short-term and ish community,” said Jon Fleischaker, cial Grants Task Force, to approve tion is critical. Educational oppor- long-term needs.” chair of the JCL Board of Directors and emergency allocations to the agencies tunities, religious services and social The Rapid Response Fund has al- Rapid Response co-chair. and synagogues. meetups and connection. ready allocated $85,000 in grants Jewish Louisville is experiencing an The task force identified core priori- • Organizational infrastructure – across the community from a $400,000 increased struggle with food and job in- ties for funding: Investing in and sustaining staff to seed grant provided by the JHFE. Grant security. Many are feeling the effects of • Human needs – assisting the most provide needed programs, services See UNITY on page 15 vulnerable within the Jewish com- Louisville marks Yom HaShoah with pre-recorded program this year By Lee Chottiner Joe Rooks Rapport also is in the pro- Community Editor gram. A clip from a KET interview with jour- Every year, hundreds of Louisvillians nalist and Holocaust survivor Fred Gross gather somewhere in the city – a syna- and a message from Louisville Mayor gogue, a theater, a college campus – to Greg Fischer also are included. remember the victims of the Holocaust. “We tried to follow at least some sem- That didn’t happen this year, the 75th blance of tradition [of the ceremony] as anniversary of the end of the most hor- best we could given the circumstances,” rific genocide in history, because of the Fitzer said. coronavirus pandemic. But the differ- The video also will include a sneak This year’s community observance of Yom HaShoah is not only virtual but prerecorded to avoid logis- ences don’t end there. peek at his Violins of Hope documentary. tical challenges of a livestreamed program from several different locations. While there will be a Yom HaShoah “We have not had a Yom HaShoah program in Louisville this week, for the good,” Goldberg said. ture of the annual observance here. program since Violins of Hope and there first time, probably ever, it won’t be live, The 24-minute video, produced by This year, though, there will be no is no scheduled premiere for the docu- or even live streamed. Mike Fitzer at 180 Degrees, was three actual candle-lighters. Instead, Power- mentary,” Goldberg said. “We thought it It was a pre-recorded video, which weeks in the making. Point-style slides will display messages might be a nice addition to include some became available for screening on “This is one of the first [Jewish con- with already-lit candles flickering on the footage.” Wednesday, April 22, on YouTube and tent videos] I was asked to do, so I’m screen. Before the coronavirus outbreak, the Facebook. very excited,” Fitzer said. (He also made There will be actual participants, JCRC had been planning the screening Matt Goldberg, director of the Jew- a documentary about last year’s Violins though. Cantor David Lipp will sing the of the documentary Nobody Wants Us, ish Community Relations Council, said of Hope, a traveling exhibit of restored Yiddish tune Yidl Mitn Fidl. Rabbi Mi- the story of the Portuguese steamship logistical problems with a live program string instruments that survived the Ho- chael Wolk will recount the Jews at Ber- Quanza, which carried Jewish refugees, streamed from several homes prompted locaust. It had been scheduled to pre- gen-Belsen concentration camp who in mostly from Belgium, to the United the decision to go with a pre-recorded miere on March 23, but the onset of the 1944 managed to observe Passover. Can- States in 1940. Like the S.S. St. Louis the video his year. coronavirus delayed that event.) tor Sharon Hordes will chant El Maleh year before, the passengers were initially “We thought it would be tighter and The video, simply titled Yom HaSho- Rachamim and Rabbi Beth Jacowitz denied entry into the country. Unlike much easier logistically if it was all in ah, is structured around the lighting of Chottiner will lead the Mourners’ Kad- the St. Louis, those aboard the Quanza the can already,” he said. 11 memorial candles, remembering the dish, interspersing the names of death eventually did get in. A video also allows people to view it 11 million Jewish and non-Jewish vic- camps and modern-day acts of genocide Goldberg said he plans to screen the at their convenience. “It will stay up for tims of the Holocaust – a traditional fea- between the lines of the prayer. Rabbi film at next year’s observance. 2 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 THE DASHBOARD Word of the month Snapshots: Meal Deliveries We needed a fifth question this Passover

and demeanor bring us hope as he re- D’var Torah minds us through word and sign: “We will get through this together.” Rabbi At the outset, I was apprehensive Stan Miles about Passover this year. During the previous weeks of isolation, I missed being among people. In Judaism, it takes a minyan – a quorum of 10 peo- I write this D’var Torah during Chol ple – to create a community for prayer. Ha’moed Pesach, the intermediate It always did – until this year. days of Passover. The Four Questions have already been asked, but perhaps The pandemic, so far, has led many we need an additional question this people, not to panic, but to stimulat- year. ing creativity. Our congregational rab- bis and cantors are working overtime Mah nishtana HA SHANA HA’ZEH? during this crisis to keep us connect- Why is this YEAR different from all ed with our Judaism and each other. other years? Thank G-d for the miracle of Zoom Sadly, during this year, 5780, this is and other technology. By means of the ultimate rhetorical question for all these resources our minyanim sur- humanity. The coronavirus and the dis- vive. Via Zoom, many of us enjoyed ease it causes, COVID-19, has turned the company of family and friends for our entire planet upside down. Now, Passover seder. Through the medium more than ever, every living person is of YouTube, stars of stage and screen on a frightening voyage aboard space- created a hip, entertaining and poi- ship earth. Our final destination is still gnant Saturday Night Seder to benefit a huge question mark. We are fright- us in the battle against the coronavirus ened, and rightfully so. May our fear and COVID-19. If you haven’t watched Senior Center Director Tara Stone and members of the JCC kitchen staff prepare meals for delivery not lead us down the path to panic, but it yet, you still can by going to YouTube to seniors. According to Stone, meal deliveries have nearly tripled since the coronavirus outbreak. (Community photos by Jessica Budnick) to safety and survival for our families, and searching Saturday Night Seder. our neighbors – indeed, all humanity. Hopefully, by Passover 2021, our I am a student of history, particularly current experience will be a sad mem- American history. During the bleakest ory. Please G-d, we will not be mourn- Candles days of the Great Depression, Presi- ing the loss of a dear one. Here are the candle lighting times for Shabbat in May: dent Franklin D. Roosevelt harnessed May the worldwide struggle to cure • May 1 @ 8:17 p.m. • May 22 @ 8:35 p.m. the technology of radio. Through his this pandemic serve to bring us togeth- • May 8 @ 8:23 p.m. • May 29 @ 8:41 p.m. Fireside Chats, he calmed a frightened er as human beings of every faith, na- • May 15 @ 8:30 p.m. nation, sharing hope and reality. tion and ethnicity, striving together for Today, in the Commonwealth of Ken- the survival of all. tucky, we are fortunate that Gov. Andy Beshear has assumed this responsibil- Contacts ity every single day at 5 p.m. His words (Stanley R. Miles is the rabbi emeritus of Temple Shalom.) Got a story idea? A letter? A gripe? tion on hold? Development Associate A kudo? Kristy Benefield can handle all circula- Send it along to Community Editor tion questions. She can be reached at Lee Chottiner at lchottiner@jew- [email protected] or ishlouisville.org. You can also call 502-238-2770. Lee at 502-238-2783. Got an item for the Community Not getting your paper? Want to eblast? Send it to weeklyupdate@ Goose creek subscribe? Putting your subscrip- jewishlouisville.org. Diner Deadlines Deadlines matter, especially for weekly eblast? Please submit it by Fri- newspapers. Got a news item for Com- day. The eblast is sent out every Mon- munity? Send it in by Wednesday, May day afternoon. 20 (though sooner is better). Submitting an item for Community’s Of equal or greater value. Not good with any other offers or discounts. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Expires04/30/2020 8/31/18 Dine In Only Corrections Mon.-Th. 11-9 PM Have a correction? Send it to Fri. 11-9:30 PM [email protected]. Sat. 8-9:30 PM Sun. 9-8 PM Your Federation Dollars at Work Your on-going support will Power the Lives of those who need us most. Feeding the hungry, comforting the sick, caring for the elderly, educating our youth, ensuring a Jewish future and supporting Israel are all Jewish moments. Moments that change lives and build community every moment of every day.

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YOUR GIFT TO THE FEDERATION POWERS IT ALL. Donate to the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign online at JewishLouisville.org/donate 4 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 NEWS Rabbi: ‘Something beautiful’ can be born from the pandemic By Lee Chottiner those times. Community Editor “They actually lessened the amount of anti-Semitism,” she said. “When Though tempting to compare Pass- you think about it, you are interacting over during the coronavirus to the with each other; you are being forced plagues God sent down to Egypt, Rab- to interact. You can no longer be siloed bi Bailey Romano thinks we need not into Jewish or Christian; you have to go back so far. interact with each other in order to In fact, Romano, director of educa- survive.” tion at Beth El Hebrew Congregation For example, in Memphis during the in Alexandria, Virginia, said lessons yellow fever epidemic of 1873, which can be learned from Jewish lead- claimed some 2,000 lives, Rabbi Max ers who lived through more modern Samfield stayed in the city when others plagues, like the yellow fever epidem- fled, ministering to the sick, helping ics of the 1800s. orphans, burying the dead regardless Those lessons were acted upon this of race. Later, in the 1878 epidemic, year, she said, at this Passover season. he and his wife adopted two orphans “The plagues of Passover do not feel Left, Rabbi Max Samfield remained in Memphis during the yellow fever epidemic of 1873, minister- whose parents succumbed to yellow so close to us normally,” Romano said, ing to the ill and helping to bury the dead. Right, Rabbi Bailey Romano has studied the history of fever, replacing two of their own chil- “except, for now, they do.” American rabbis during times of epidemics and natural disasters. (photos provided by Historicmem- dren who had died. Romano researched the history of phis.com and Rabbi Bailey Romano) Yellow fever laid bare the need for American Jews during disasters for “infrastructure” in the Jewish com- her rabbinic thesis, Who By Fire and low fever in Memphis and New Orleans Katrina of 2005. munities to respond to emergencies, Who By Water: Rabbinical Responses to during the 19th century, the Galveston Romano concluded from her re- Romano said. Samfield became one of Select Epidemics and Natural Disasters Hurricane of 1900, the San Francisco search that the response of Jewish the founders of Hebrew Hospital and in American Jewish History. Earthquake of 1906 and Hurricane leaders to epidemics, likely tamped She studied Jewish responses to yel- down hatred or distrust of Jews during See HISTORY on page 15 Passover Roundup Seder streaming connected community during the festival season other people in the room with us,” he By Lee Chottiner explained. “Fortunately, they are cute Community Editor kids.” On top of that, livestreaming a seder at Why was this Passover different from all was troubling for the KI rabbi. all other Passovers? “As a Conservative rabbi, this poses a On all other Passovers, the seder, a challenge because I do not use electric- home-based ritual, brings family and ity on Shabbat and holidays,” Wolk said. friends together around the same din- “I chose to do this because there are so ner table to recount the story of the Is- many people who will be alone on Pass- raelites’ freedom from bondage. Why over and even more who have no idea on this night did families sit alone and how to put on a seder.” livestream seders? Wolk’s religious issue goes back to Because this is the first Passover in the the prohibition against making fire on time of the coronavirus. Shabbat and holy days. Orthodox Jews Jews took their seders to the internet as well. this year, using streaming platforms In fact, Anshei Sfard did not livestream such as Zoom and Facebook Live as a a seder, though Rabbi Simcha Snaid held substitute for guests. a virtual class to explain how it is done. There was a learning curve. Seder-go- He also called his members beforehand ers got used to breaking their own mid- to offer help. dle matzos, building Hillel sandwiches, “This is an opportunity to have a seder dipping leafy greens in salt water, con- with our children … and really instill torting their faces while biting into the within them a pride in our heritage and Rabbi David Ariel-Joel monitors a recent online class about Passover from The Temple’s “Zoom bitter herb, all while digitally linked to Room.” The Temple will use the facility to livestream its seders this year. (photo provided by Benji traditions that we have done for thou- the seder they are “attending.” Berlow) sands of years,” Snaid said. It didn’t precisely fulfill the traditional The Union for Reform Judaism and statement, “let all who are hungry come seders from a space in the building that ple Shalom had spotty wifi in her house, United Synagogue posted tips to its eat.” But in a time of pandemic, it was it calls its “Zoom Room.” so she strung a 60-foot cable from her members, helping them move their ac- probably the best that could be done. Rabbinic Assistant Benji Berlow said upstairs router to her downstairs dining tivities online. Most synagogues in Louisville planned the Zoom Room, named for the platform room. But there was a new threat to the vir- their own virtual seders, either from the most synagogues are using to stream Slosberg, who co-led AJ’s virtual seder tual service: hacking. leaders’ homes or their buildings. their services and classes, is really The with Cantor David Lipp on Zoom and The ADL warned against so-called There were also technical challenges Temple’s archives. It has been outfitted Facebook Live, was concerned about un- “Zoombombing,” efforts to disrupt vir- to overcome. There was even the threat with multiple screens to give its rab- muting participants, which could lead to tual services by hacking into them and of hacking. bis “functionality” over adult education noise feedback. leaving anti-Semitic, even pornographic, But there was also room for innova- classes and the virtual services. “I’ll probably have everyone on mute images and memes. The ADL posted a tion, learning technical ways to enhance “We will be sharing a virtual haga- and have everyone around their own ta- how-to checklist for thwarting Zoombo- Judaism that could live beyond the pan- dah through Zoom, so everyone can bles, and just guide them,” he said. mbing. demic. follow along together,” Berlow said. “I Then some challenges were only in- Adversity, though, is nothing new to “This whole thing is an experiment,” will be monitoring the Zoom call from directly related to the technology, like Judaism. said Rabbi Robert Slosberg of Adath home to make sure everything is running young families dealing with their chil- “Jewish tradition has prepared us for Jeshurun. “We’re in uncharted territory, smoothly logistically (helping people off dren while on a live feed to the seder. this moment, said Rabbi David Ariel- which is a mixed blessing because some screen, muting audio feedback, etc.).” Rabbi Michael Wolk of Keneseth Israel Joel of The Temple. “In the hagadah, we of things coming out of this [time] are Other synagogue rabbis streaming who streamed his seder from home with say: ‘In each and every generation, they unbelievable.” their seders from home had their own his wife, Heidi, had just that challenge. rise up to destroy us.’ We begin with the For instance, The Temple streamed hurdles to overcome. “Heidi and I have two young children need to protect our families and our parts or all of its first- and second-night Rabbi Beth Jacowitz Chottiner of Tem- who will not understand that there are homes from external threats.” APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 Y Community 5 NEWS Jewish funeral rituals drastically changed by the coronavirus crisis By Lee Chottiner tendance, at this point,” Meyer Funeral Community Editor Director John Proffitt said in a state- ment. “A public service can and will be When Rabbi Michael Wolk officiated conducted at a later date.” at his first funeral of the coronavirus era, The rules result in funerals that are he found it… different. quicker, lonelier affairs. “While the only people physically pres- Rabbi Beth Jacowitz Chottiner of ent were the gravedigger, the funeral di- Temple Shalom just officiated at her first rector and myself,” he said, “there were funeral during the pandemic at Meyers. eight to 10 family members of the de- Just three mourners were present. ceased participating through Zoom,” the online conferencing platform made The traditional washing and guard- popular by the pandemic. ing of the bodies can still be done dur- Normally, Wolk prepares a eulogy ing the pandemic, but even these rituals and invites specific mourners to make must conform. remarks. “This time, I provided space The Louisville Chevra Kadisha may for any family member to speak of their continue to wash and watch over bodies loved one.” during this time, according to Proffitt, The hardest part of the service, for but it won’t be business as usual. Wolk at least, came when he saw the cas- “We have all the necessary PPE (per- ket sitting by itself at the gravesite. Jews sonal protective equipment) and guide- traditionally accompany the dead until lines in place, Proffitt said. “They will Above, Jewish funerals must be modified to keep the body is buried. use proper sanitary practices and proce- mourners safe during the coronavirus pandemic. “While it was sad that the family could dures. We will be adhering to the CDC Right, Roberta Bloom, mother of Drs. Steven not be there,” Wolk said, “I also felt a recommendations, along with state and and Karen Bloom, grandmother of Sarah and sense of responsibility that this person local authority recommendations and Rabbi David Bloom, all of Louisville, communi- should have a Jewish burial even under mandates. We will leave it up to the indi- cated with her family by iPad during the last terrible circumstances.” viduals of our CK society, if they wish to 10 days of her life. The facility where she was Wolk isn’t alone. Across America, rab- participate or not.” did not permit visitors. (photo provided by the bis, funeral directors and cemetery of- The work of the shomrim, those who Bloom family) ficials are reconciling Jewish funeral watch over the bodies until the funeral, rituals to fit the coronavirus pandemic. should not be affected. at this time: “All funerals will be held at “That will be okay,” Proffitt said, “as Many are taking to social media to share the graveside; only the immediate fam- their experiences and concerns. the individual sitting will not be in close ily may attend (digital platforms may be contact to the deceased loved one.” Of course, mourners are struggling used to allow communal participation) even more with the new normal. and shiva will be observed privately While social distancing has made Dr. Steven Bloom of Louisville couldn’t at home with condolences offered by Jewish funeral rites more challenging, even be with his mother, who just passed phone. Instead of minyans at the shiva some families think something good away in New Jersey. Her facility was in house, the family is encouraged to join might result. lockdown, he said. online services to say Kaddish.” The Rothstein family, which just bur- “They’re not allowed to leave their Some families are electing to hold me- ied their sister-in-law and aunt, Ruth apartments,” Bloom said. “Their meals morial services later when the pandemic Anne Myers, in the KI Cemetery, think are delivered to their doors. They even passes. Zoom and other conferencing platforms had security at the elevators to make Rabbi David Ariel-Joel has one such will make funerals more accessible, even sure no one got out.” family at The Temple. “The family is after the crisis passes. Were it not for an iPad Bloom sent to waiting with the remains to do the me- “Under a terrible circumstance, Zoom his mother, she would not have seen her morial service when this is over,” he said. made it better,” said Michael Rothstein, children and grandchildren during the Where services are still happening, side, if family members may attend. who grew up in Louisville but now lives last 10 days of her life. funeral directors and cemeteries have One cemetery, not in Louisville, was de- in Chicago, along with his brother, Jack. The Jewish funeral process includes instituted rules that once could be de- scribed online as “BYOS” (bring your Neither could be here for the burial. ancient customs: scribed as draconian. own shovels). “We stayed on for quite a bit of time, Tahara (ritual washing) and shmira But not now. Soil from Israel is still sprinkled into remembering, reminiscing,” Michael (guarding the body) happen prior to the In some places, only clergy, funeral the graves, though some funeral direc- said. “We had a family gathering on funeral itself. The burial traditionally home staff and cemetery workers are tors have taken to sanitizing the packets Zoom… We have committed to doing it happens 24 hours after death and calls allowed. Others may permit one or two before use. again.” for mourners to fill the grave themselves. relatives to represent the rest of the fam- Of course, funeral homes no longer Their father, Joe Rothstein, who still Finally, there is shiva, the traditional ily. Some cemeteries say either clergy or permit hugging, handshakes or any type lives here, said 25 people attended via seven day period of mourning when family may attend, not both. of physical contact. Louisville is no ex- Zoom. guests call on the family, bring food and In some cemeteries, only staff may ception to these rules. Father and sons think conferencing help them make a minyan, the quorum carry the casket to the gravesite – do- Herman Meyer & Son Inc., Louisville’s platforms are proving their worth at fu- of 10 worshippers that halachically en- ing away with pallbearers. Frequently, only Jewish funeral home, has released nerals, even when social distancing is no ables mourners to recite Kaddish. the mourners – when they may attend – its own guidelines for the foreseeable fu- longer necessary. All these customs have been upended must wait in their cars until the casket is ture. “It would be a wonderful thing,” Mi- by the coronavirus. in place at the grave. “We will not have a funeral chapel ser- chael said, “if we had the ability to par- Keneseth Israel, for example, has in- Funeral directors are spacing chairs vice and we are only conducting grave- ticipate in funerals around the world via stituted its own guidelines for funerals for mourners six feet apart at the grave- side services, with limited family at- Zoom when we are not able to partici- pate in person.” 6 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780

COMMUNITY Community is published monthly by the Jewish FORUM Community of Louisville, Inc., 3600 Dutchmans Lane, Louisville, KY 40205-3216. USPS #020-068 at Louisville, KY. The Jewish Community of Louisville is a nonprofit organization. $26 of your pledge is for a subscription for Community. For more information, call 502-459-0660, fax 502- 238-2724, e-mail [email protected] or check out the website www.jewishlouisville.org. POSTMASTER – Send address changes to Community, 3600 Dutchmans Lane, Louisville, KY 40205-3216. COMMUNITY DEADLINES Deadlines for the next two issues of Community for copy and ads are: May 20 for publication on May 29 and June 17 for publication on June 26. Community publishes Newsmakers­ and Around Town items at no charge. Items must be submitted in writing. Please include your name and a daytime telephone number where you can be contacted in the event that questions arise. 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I knew a COVID stat; his name was Barry Email your comments to: Community, of the Torah processional. where he was being treated, removed Letters to the editor, Lee Chottiner, at A stout guy with gray hair and round- him from his ventilator and transferred [email protected]. Human frame glasses, Barry was always ready him from the ICU to a regular floor – a To submit items to Newsmakers, Around Town or Lifecycle, please email them to newspapercolumns@ Resources with his go-to answer whenever the moment that went viral when a video jewishlouisville.org. rabbi asked the worshippers what they of nurses wheeling his gurney to his Lee Chottiner were grateful for that week. “Family, new room, doctors and nurses lining health,” he would say. the hallway and cheering, was posted EDITORIAL STAFF Something else he was grateful for: online. Even CNN picked it up. Lee Chottiner food. Days later, though, he was back in Editor A veteran of the food and beverage the ICU. He would rally one more time 502-238-2783, [email protected] industry, who had worked with the when he became conscious enough to Larry Singer As of last weekend, the U.S. death toll likes of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck ask his nurse for ice, telling her his Advertising Sales from COVID-19 had surpassed 35,000 – and had been on the staff of Louisville’s name when she asked for it. 502-418-5845, [email protected] the highest in the world – and I had not Seelbach Hotel, Barry’s knowledge of After that, though, his condition Robbyn S McClain known a single one of them. food and restaurants was nothing short worsened until it was over. Senior Design & Content Manager 502-238-2764, [email protected] Until Sunday. of astounding. You could be forgiven Every night, many of us watch the Shiela Steinman Wallace That was when Barry Berlin, 71, a for thinking he had eaten at every bis- news, which is overwhelmingly con- Editor Emeritus member of my synagogue and a fre- tro, deli, pizza parlor and sushi bar sumed with the pandemic. We filter the quent lunch companion, passed away in town. Of course, he hadn’t, but his headlines, looking for nuggets of good BOARD OF DIRECTORS after battling the disease for the better knowledge of restaurants and the cater- news – anything on which we can hang Jon Fleischaker part of a month. ing business seemed encyclopedic. our hopes for a return to normal. Board Chair With that piece of news, the coronavi- It wasn’t just the food end of the busi- But we can’t help but hear the num- rus, which has spread across the globe, ness that fascinated him. He loved to bers of those infected and the deaths. JCL SENIOR STAFF infecting millions, crashing economies, tell stories about the characters he knew The networks do their best to tell the Sara Wagner isolating nations and likely changing behind the counters or in the kitchens stories behind those numbers, broad- President & Chief Executive Officer the world for good, became more than of his favorite places. He noticed the casting images of doctors, nurses, first Stacy Gordon-Funk just a stampede of facts, figures and ambience at restaurants, the table set- responders, grocery workers, delivery Senior Vice President of Philanthropy headlines. tings. He loved planning menus and drivers – essential employees who suc- Maury Young The veil of the disease had fallen preparing a variety of dishes. cumbed to COVID-19. They show New Vice President and Chief Financial Officer away, reviewing a familiar face, that of Which is why he became a central Yorkers applauding these heroes every Thomas Wissinger a friend. figure at Temple Shalom, planning ev- night at 7 p.m. Vice President, JCC Programs & Operations A Massachusetts native, who had ery detail of High Holy Day onegs and Still, for many of us, the statistics re- lived and worked around the world, other events. I last saw him at the Pu- main nameless and faceless. Barry, along with his wife, D.J., resided rim comedy night and dinner. The so- Not for me, not anymore. I have Tax deductible contributions may be sent to Community, 3600 Dutchmans Lane, Louisville, KY 40205 just a few doors from Temple Shalom. cial hall was set up cabaret style, two learned the hard way that each infec- The short walking distance made Barry bottles of wine on each table and Barry tion figure comes with an identity. Now, and the family service dog, Sonny, reg- in kitchen, where he was at home. I can say that I knew one of them, and I ulars at the Friday and Saturday Shab- There were times over the past two am better for it. bat services. weeks when we thought Barry would He would always sit at the back of the beat this thing. At one point he recov- (Lee Chottiner is the editor of the Jew- sanctuary, offering fist bumps instead ered so much so that doctors at Nor- ish Louisville Community.) © 2019 JEWISH COMMUNITY OF LOUISVILLE, INC. of handshakes to those who were part ton Women’s and Children’s Hospital, APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 Y Community 7 FORUM Israel finally gets a government… and praise for its pandemic response edented coronavirus crisis. Gantz had him in jail). Stay tuned. ing necessary equipment from abroad decided that the country needs an This political saga is being resolved such as ventilators and PPE. emergency unity government and has as Israel is being widely praised for Israel has several pharmaceutical been negotiating with Netanyahu on its response to the coronavirus. One companies working on both treat- JCRC Scene doing just that. of the first countries to enact a stay- ments and vaccines, and they are re- Many of Gantz’s coalition partners at-home order, the shutdown is being porting promising results with both. are outraged to see him actually share credited with saving many lives. One company plans human vaccine Matt Goldberg power with Netanyahu, a man they Israel strictly enforced the order, trials by June 1. simply cannot reconcile with, and prohibiting people from straying more With its mortality rate from COV- have abandoned him, deciding to sit than 100 meters (109 yards) from their ID-19, the disease caused by the coro- in the opposition instead. homes except for essential trips. navirus, low compared to other coun- After three elections costing hun- But Netanyhu has become more Israel has also functionally shut tries, Israel’s efforts are something we dreds of millions of dollars, Israel has popular over the past few weeks for his down its airport. There is now about should be proud of. a new government. handling of the pandemic. Polls indi- one flight landing a day, usually a char- But they are not perfect. Under the newly signed collation cate that if another election were held tered aircraft filled with homebound Israel’s economy has collapsed, just agreement, Prime Minister Benjamin tomorrow, his right-wing Likud bloc Israelis who were stranded in coun- as the rest of the world. It may even be Netanyahu will be PM for the next 18 would win resoundingly. Apparently, tries as far away as Peru and New Zea- more acute since the Israeli economy months while Gen. Benny Gantz, lead- this news gave Netanyahu the confi- land. is significantly dependent on tour- er of the opposition Blue and White dence to play hardball during negotia- In fighting the coronavirus, Israel ism. The tourist industry aspires to Party, will be the defense minister. Af- tions, extracting some serious conces- has unleashed every apparatus of its be well positioned when the economy ter 18 months Gantz will become PM sions from Gantz. security forces. Its top-secret weapons reopens; limited activity has already and Netanyahu will be Vice-PM. Of course, Israeli politics are notori- research division is working on find- begun. Hopefully, the turnaround will The two leaders, who signed the ously difficult to forecast and anything ing a vaccine. Military special forces come sooner than later for Israel. agreement this week, are calling this can happen in the coming months (in- have been mitigating the impact of the an emergency unity government, com- cluding a conviction for Netanyahu at disease and the Mossad, the national (Matt Goldberg is director of the Jew- ing together to deal with the unprec- his corruption trial, which could put intelligence agency, has been secur- ish Community Relations Council.)

MOSAIC Awards canceled for 2020; honorees to be feted next year By staff and releases not take place after all. SAIC honorees. SAIC supporters, including corpora- tions, foundations and individuals, The last major Jewish event of the “We have made the difficult, but “We’re thrilled that each honoree only possible, decision to cancel this has graciously accepted,” Frockt said. have generously converted their spon- year that was still scheduled, despite sorships to donations that support the coronavirus pandemic, has finally year’s MOSAIC Awards,” JFCS Chief The MOSAIC Awards is the signa- Executive Officer Deb Frockt said. the essential services JFCS is provid- been canceled. ture fundraising event of the JFCS. ing our most vulnerable community Jewish Family & Career Services This year’s honorees – University of Even though the ceremony is can- members during this historic crisis.” Louisville President Neeli Bendapudi, has announced that the 15th annual celed, Frockt said many sponsors of Over the last month, the JFCS staff MOSAIC Awards, which had been entrepreneur and professor Di Tran, the MOSAIC Awards have already educator Berta Weyenberg, distiller have provided services to 367 house- slated for Thursday, May 14, at the agreed to continue supporting the holds. Louisville Marriott Downtown, will Kaveh Zamanian, and chef and res- agency’s services during the pandemic. taurateur Bapion Ziba – have all ac- cepted invitations to be the 2021 MO- “We are gratified that so many MO-

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Locally Owned and Operated Kayla Cook, R.N. and Elisabeth Knight, M.S.S.W. Call (502) 208-9424 today to learn more caringexcellenceathome.com 8 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 FORUM LHOME creates loan products for its neediest borrowers during the coronavirus crisis products. The St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank Guest shows CDFI Investment in Louisville to be far below comparable cities, in- Columnist cluding Cincinnati, Nashville, India- napolis, Memphis and Columbus. Amy Shir Over the past three years, LHOME has expand its offerings and heighten its impact. To date, we have made more than 110 loans, with over $2 million lent primarily to low-income minor- ity small business owners and families When the coronavirus pandemic needing to make critical home repairs, reached Louisville, its low-income res- elderly homeowners on fixed incomes idents and very small businesses were to pay property taxes and small inves- among the hardest hit. tors of color in West Louisville need- They endured business closures, job ing capital to flip or rent affordable losses and the elimination of child LHOME, which provides low-interest loans to small businesses and individuals in underserved housing. care and schooling for their kids. neighborhoods, is now offering emergency loan products to help their clients through the pandemic. (LHOME photo) The work LHOME is doing during These are the clients of The Lou- this crisis is consistent with tis Jewish isville Housing Opportunities and roots. This is tikkun olam (repair the Micro-Enterprise Community Devel- also provides working capital. In just Render Capital and Lenderfit. The world) in action. the first week of launch, LHOME ap- partnership also has challenge other opment Loan Fund, Inc. (LHOME), I am thankful for this opportunity a nonprofit low-interest lender with proved 16 small business loans worth individuals and banks to invest. $346,110 to help entrepreneurs not to reflect on how my organization is Jewish roots (more on that later) that LHOME was co-founded in 2012 by benefiting our greater community, es- assists people and businesses in need. only survive but hopefully thrive long Judy Tiell, retired executive director past this current crisis. pecially during the coronavirus pan- We have had to pivot to serve these of Jewish Family & Career Services demic. people during the crisis. Their expens- LHOME approved 11 Lifeline (an- (JFCS) and Cathy Hinko, executive ti-payday) loans totaling $5,300 with director of the Metropolitan Housing (Amy Shir is president and CEO of es, rent, utilities, food and medical LHOME.) care continue, though without the cor- about $32,000 in the pipeline. We have Coalition (MHC) – two visionaries who responding revenue. paid bills for vulnerable community knew that Louisville was under-invest- Want to help? So, LHOME, the city’s only nonprof- members for prescription drugs, rent, ed in CDFIs – lending institutions serv- gas, electric, and water. LHOME also ing communities that typically lack For more information about LHOME it certified community development -fi or to invest, visit www.lhomeky.org. nancial institution (CDFI), has created is providing online financial coaching access to affordable, accessible loan two COVID-19 pandemic emergency via Zoom and FaceTime. loan products. It also shifted its busi- You may have heard about Federal ness model from in-person lending assistance for small business own- and financial coaching to completely ers and the $1,000 available to low- virtual lending and financial coaching. income families. LHOME knew that On April 6, LHOME launched its these programs would take a while new loan products: The Lifeline to launch. Several people would not Loan, which pays bills for communi- have the tools to apply and it would ty members up to $500 for emergen- take time to receive the financial assis- cies (utilities, water, rent, prescription tance. We developed these products to medicine) and the Small Business serve as bridges for the other funding. Continuity Loan. Additionally, LHOME is providing The Lifeline Loan is a vital alterna- financial coaching and reports time- tive to predatory lenders that set up ly repayments to the credit bureaus. shop in neighborhoods underserved So, instead of creating a debt trap, by traditional banks, making so-called LHOME’s small loans help Louisvil- “payday loans.” Those lenders charge lians pay their bills, have some breath- about 400 percent interest, so some- ing room, create a viable repayment one who borrows $500 for emergen- plan and raise their credit scores so cies can end up paying up to $2,000 in consumers can pay less interest on fu- interest and fees when all is said and ture debt. done. LHOME is actively raising funds for By contrast, LHOME’s loan charges both of these loan funds: For the Small 15 percent over 12 months so that a Business Continuity Loan Fund, Lou- $500 loan ends up costing a total of isville Metro has provided $500,000; approximately $542. LHOME has committed $500,000; Render Capital, $150,000, with other The Small Business Continuity Loan funds provided by Endeavor Board provides up to $25,000 to very small Chairman Brook Smith and others. businesses (fewer than 10 full-time This loan fund is offered in partner- employees) within a few days, pay- ship with GLI, Louisville Forward, ing for wages, rent and equipment. It

Advertise in Community! FREE Digital advertising included with every ad. Call 502.238.2777 for more info. APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 Y Community 9 GLOBE Benjamin Levin, 93, dies Last surviving member of the legendary Avengers partisan group By Sam Sokol ist activist Abba Kovner. According to under government control. anything is possible with individual JTA multiple media reports in Israel, Levin Levin eventually moved to New York determination,” Levin’s son Chaim was the last known surviving member in 1967, opening a gas station and told The New York Post. “He repeated- Benjamin Levin spent much of his of the group. spending years lecturing about the Ho- ly emphasized his mantra, ‘That’s life,’ early life fighting. “I saw a lot of things,” Levin recalled locaust at local schools. because in his view life is full of peaks and valleys, successes and failures but At just 14, he joined a militant in a video interview years later. “I saw “He was a mild mannered happy group fighting the Nazis in his native very noble people who became ani- is always interesting and should be ap- person who radiated a can-do attitude preciated.” Lithuania. After the war, he worked to mals, and very much animals who be- and convinced all who knew him that smuggle Jewish refugees to pre-state came noble people.” Israel. And in 1948, he arrived on the Despite surviving the Holocaust, shores of the newly established Jewish Levin’s parents were killed by Lithu- state aboard the Altalena, a cargo ship anians after the war. Following their whose sinking by the nascent Israel murder, Levin moved to Palestine and Defense Forces is considered a turning joined the right-wing Irgun militia, point in the country’s early history. which was then involved in a bloody Levin died of COVID-19 on April 13, struggle with the British authorities. just two days after his 93rd birthday, His activities on behalf of the group in Westchester County, New York. involved clandestinely smuggling Eu- Born in 1927 in the Lithuanian capi- ropean Jews into what was soon to tal of Vilnius, Levin was reportedly a become the state of Israel. He was ar- wild youth, taking up smoking at age rested by the Soviet Union and sent to eight and running with a local gang, a Siberian gulag but managed to make The Times of Israel reported. After his his way back to southern Europe in or- family escaped the city following the der to rejoin the Zionist underground. Nazi invasion in 1941, Levin’s father He returned to Israel in 1948 as a encouraged him to join the resistance. crew member of the Altalena, an Irgun At just 14, Levin joined The Avengers, weapons ship which was sunk by the a Jewish militant organization led by IDF because it would refused to toler- the legendary Yiddish poet and Zion- ate an independent fighting force not

Seventy-one years after Israel fought for its independence, Magen David Adom is helping the country battle a different enemy.

The coronavirus pandemic is indeed a war. Even if Israel can keep mortality rates for those infected to 1 percent, it will still mean the death of more than 30,000 people — more than all of Israel’s wars combined.

Magen David Adom has been on the front lines against the coronavirus, but the fight has taken an extraordinary toll on MDA’s resources. We need your support to keep saving lives. Observe Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s independence day, by keeping the people of Israel strong.

Give today to our Coronavirus Emergency Campaign at afmda.org/corona-campaign

afmda.org/corona-campaign 10 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 Jewish Family & Career s erviC es The J Louis & Lee Roth Family Center • 2821 Klempner Way • Louisville, KY 40205 • 502-452-6341 • jfcslouisville.org

centerpiece We are all facing challenges because of COVID-19, and many of us are confronting new hardships as a result. if you answer “yes” to any of these questions, JFCs is here to help. VIRTUALLY CENTERED are you having trouble managing stress, depression, anxiety or isolation? JCC moves online with new portal during coronavirus; staff say it has a future after pandemic By Lee Chottiner classes that we post on Facebook CenterStage cast members, with that.” are you concerned about Do you have difficulty with are you concerned about the Community Editor and online,” Kwasny said. “We are directors, choreographers and For now, clients are accessing the your health or healthcare transportation to medical supply of prescription medication When Susan Kwasny migrated also doing virtual personal training, musical directors. It’s a chance for JCC virtually, though what happens coverage? appointments? you have on hand? the JCC’s physical fitness classes which is going rather well, too. Our our audience to get to know some to the portal when the building online, she discovered that there members are staying engaged with of their favorite performers.” reopens remains an open question. our trainers and instructors, which was a learning curve. Camp J also is on Virtual JCC But Tom Wissinger, vice president Do you have challenges accessing are you concerned about meeting Do you have challenges addressing “The majority of our classes are is one of our main goals.” posting links to projects for and COO of the Jewish Community posted on Facebook Live and some A quick visit to Virtual JCC shows children, other kid-centric websites of Louisville, sees some place for a daily hot meal? your financial obligations? your dietary restrictions? of our instructors did not even that the web page is divided into and an exercise video for young the portal once the pandemic have Facebook, so we had to get five major tracks: Group Fitness people. passes. them on there and teach them how Online, Arts & Ideas, Personal The Early Learning Center isn’t “I do think that the roots the Do you have challenges accessing groceries? are you concerned about employment? to use it,” she said. Training, Jewish Life & Learning, using Virtual JCC as extensively Virtual JCC has currently grown Even then, the senior director of and Camp, Youth & Youths. to protect their pupils, said its will not be entirely uprooted, even health & wellness at the JCC said, Depend on which track you click, director, Jessica Bush. when we are back to our ‘next new we are here For times like these. you will be directed to videos, “We have to keep all content that normal,’ he said. “Having the ability there were “growing pains.” Please let us know how we can help: [email protected] or 502-452-6341 x 153. “The [camera] angle of the project ideas, live programming, includes the children on our closed to connect with the community in class could have been better or calendars, even an auction. page,” she said, though the ELC person, but also virtually, seems the lighting or orientation of the It isn’t just Group Fitness that’s staff is thinking about new ways to to be a win-win situation for camera were not the best,” Kwasny making the most of Virtual JCC. engage its families. all. It allows us to more greatly recalled. “But now, I think we have “I have been posting links about “Each class has created a diversify how we can connect with Jewish Family & Career serviCes it down.” shows and dance classes, musical daily routine,” Bush said. “They individuals, but as part of a larger In fact, instructors are doing the theater and dance workouts,” said [teachers] Zoom with their families community. has added new and expanded group filming from their homes, with the Frank Goodloe III, CenterStage in the morning, and then in the The problem with describing the options for mutual support and connection. kids and dogs getting in the act. artistic director. “People seem to afternoon post a Facebook Live future role of Virtual JCC, he said, “It adds a comical, personal really like it.” video with an activity, a story time, is that no one really knows how Strategies for Managing Uncertain Times aspect to the class that most of our Goodloe, along with Erin Jump, or a check-in. It has been great to much the community will have Mondays, Noon – 1 PM members enjoy,” she said. CenterStage education program engage our families in this way; I changed once the crisis concludes. Join this discussion focused on tools to de-stress, reduce loneliness during times think they have gotten to know the Physical fitness has been one director, have also worked together Goodloe also believes that Virtual of isolation and self-care. Facilitated by Mauri Malka, Senior Director of Programs teachers so much more than in of the success stories of Virtual on Daily Dose, a talk show about JCC is here to stay. soundtracks they’re listening regular school times.” “I do feel that in some type of Caregiver Support Group JCC, the new online portal used Tuesdays, 3 – 4 PM to channel members to their to, Broadway trivia and events Not all departments are using way we will continue with this Are you caring for an older family member or friend? Join others for mutual particular interests or host videos happening in the community. The Virtual JCC. Virtual JCC once things come support, problem solving and education. Facilitated by Lauren Kehr, LCSW and other content. talks are posted every Monday on “A lot of our seniors are not back up,” he said. “I think this is a the Virtual JCC page, under the Arts During the coronavirus pandemic, necessarily tech savvy,” said Senior way that we can continue to stay Mindful Meditation & Ideas label. Virtual JCC has kept The J open for Center Director Tara Stone. “We connected to those that aren’t Wednesdays, Noon – 12:30 PM business – virtually speaking. “Coming up, I will be doing a have almost tripled our meal able to make it out due to illness Take a 30-minute break to clear your mind and get centered. weekly vlog, if you will, called deliveries, so I am more focused or whatever it may be. It will give “We are getting great feedback Led by Topsy Staten, APRN Getting to Know You,” Goodloe people a chance to still feel as if from our members about the said. “I will be interviewing they are connected.” Parkinson’s Support Group Thursdays, 3 – 4 PM Are you caring for someone with Parkinson’s Disease? Join others for mutual support, problem solving and education. Facilitated by Naomi Carrico, CSW Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group 3rd Monday 12:30 – 1:30 PM I 3rd Wednesday 10 – 11 AM Are you raising a grandchild or young relative that is under the age of 18? Join others for mutual support, problem solving and education. Facilitated by Jo Ann Kalb, LCSW We’re Listening: Support for New Employment Realities Fridays, Noon – 1 PM Career and mental health counselors co-facilitate this space for people to discuss concerns about employment, finance and all things career-related during this crisis and beyond. Contact Kristi at [email protected].

REGISTER NOW! Receive phone and video call-in instructions by contacting: [email protected] or 502-452-6341 x 153 FREE OF CHARGE. ALL ARE WELCOME. Jewish Family & Career s erviC es

Louis & Lee Roth Family Center • 2821 Klempner Way • Louisville, KY 40205 • 502-452-6341 • jfcslouisville.org

We are all facing challenges because of COVID-19, and many of us are confronting new hardships as a result. if you answer “yes” to any of these questions, JFCs is here to help.

are you having trouble managing stress, depression, anxiety or isolation?

are you concerned about Do you have difficulty with are you concerned about the your health or healthcare transportation to medical supply of prescription medication coverage? appointments? you have on hand?

Do you have challenges accessing are you concerned about meeting Do you have challenges addressing a daily hot meal? your financial obligations? your dietary restrictions?

Do you have challenges accessing groceries? are you concerned about employment? we are here For times like these. Please let us know how we can help: [email protected] or 502-452-6341 x 153.

Jewish Family & Career serviCes has added new and expanded group options for mutual support and connection. Strategies for Managing Uncertain Times Mondays, Noon – 1 PM Join this discussion focused on tools to de-stress, reduce loneliness during times of isolation and self-care. Facilitated by Mauri Malka, Senior Director of Programs

Member FDIC Caregiver Support Group Tuesdays, 3 – 4 PM Are you caring for an older family member or friend? Join others for mutual Republic Bank places the highest priority on the well- support, problem solving and education. Facilitated by Lauren Kehr, LCSW being of our Associates while providing continuity of Mindful Meditation access to services to meet your fundamental financial Wednesdays, Noon – 12:30 PM needs. We are able to do this by offering multiple ways Take a 30-minute break to clear your mind and get centered. Led by Topsy Staten, APRN to access your accounts and conduct transactions: Parkinson’s Support Group Thursdays, 3 – 4 PM • Drive-thru Windows at Banking Centers Are you caring for someone with Parkinson’s Disease? Join others for mutual • Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) support, problem solving and education. Facilitated by Naomi Carrico, CSW Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group • Telephone and Chat with our Contact Center 3rd Monday 12:30 – 1:30 PM I 3rd Wednesday 10 – 11 AM • Online and mobile banking1 personal and business services Are you raising a grandchild or young relative that is under the age of 18? Join others for mutual support, problem solving and education. Facilitated by Jo Ann Kalb, LCSW • Over 90,000 fee-free ATMs2 We’re Listening: Support for New Employment Realities Fridays, Noon – 1 PM Learn more at RepublicBank.com or Career and mental health counselors co-facilitate this space for people to discuss concerns about employment, finance and all things career-related during this crisis call us at 502-584-3600 and beyond. Contact Kristi at [email protected].

REGISTER NOW! 1 Message and data rates may apply from your wireless carrier. Receive phone and video call-in instructions by contacting: 2 Free ATM access at Allpoint, MoneyPass, SUM or Presto ATMs. [email protected] or 502-452-6341 x 153 FREE OF CHARGE. ALL ARE WELCOME. 12 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 CORONAVIRUS Home at last Louisville man, world traveler, back from India after harrowing experience By Lee Chottiner said “took the lead” on his case. Community Editor “Initially, they helped with insurance, After three weeks in an Indian hospi- reimbursement and covering his medi- tal, recovering from sepsis and organ cal costs,” Erica said, “because in India failure in a country under lockdown you cannot be released from the hospi- due to the coronavirus, a Jewish Louis- tal until you pay your bill upfront.” villian has finally come home. She also been in touch with the State Matthew Lemberger’s flight from San Department and the U.S. Embassy ev- Francisco landed at Louisville Muham- ery day since her father got sick, to mad Ali International Airport late Tues- arrange another repatriation flight. At day night – the last leg on the 77-year- one point she was told there would be old world traveler’s arduous homeward no more such flights because of the na- journey. tional lockdown, which would have left Confined to a wheelchair, Lemberger her father stranded. endured a 17-hour flight from Delhi, In- Even if another repatriation flight dia, a long layover and a 15-hour road could be arranged, getting Matthew out trip by ambulance from Trivandrum at of the country – ground transport and the southern tip of the subcontinent, Erica Lemberger kisses her father, Matthew Lemberger, during their reunion in San Francisco. the flight – would be expensive. (photo provided by Matthew Lemberger) where he had been hospitalized since Enter Tara Bassett, a longtime Lou- March. isville TV journalist and “livecaster” “I’ve been reading tehillim (psalms) where was treated for dehydration. He Before the journey home, Matthew on Facebook who posted an interview daily,” Erica said. “It talks about all the returned to his guesthouse, but his con- ”fought for his life,” in the ICU while with Erica “within five minutes of talk- ways we have not done well by HaSh- dition deteriorated. Days later he was hospitalized in Trivandrum, tethered to ing to me.” em (God) and all the miracles HaShem hospitalized again. Umar and Kaiser an IV medicating him with antibiotics, has done for us. So it’s connected me. continued to look after him. Bassett’s interview got picked up by said his daughter, Erica Lemburger. the news outlets, garnering support This has rejuvenated my spiritual con- Erica had been informed of her fa- His homeward odyssey may not have (and funds) for Erica’s GoFundMe ac- nection to HaShem.” ther’s illness, but communicating with started at all, were it not for a help of count. took. The Lemberger family’s ordeal be- him directly was difficult. rabbis, lawmakers, community leaders, Bassett also helped Erica facilitate gan in March while Matthew, a retired “There was no internet and no phone journalists and hundreds of other do- contact with Yarmuth’s staff, with teacher and author of 13 books, was service,” she said. “So I would record nors to her GoFundMe page, many of whom she nhas close ties. Yarmuth’s taking a winter trip through India. videos and send them to these two men whom have never met Matthew. team held a stream of conference calls This trip turned from adventure to (Umar and Kaiser). They would show He also benefitted from the compas- with the embassy in India, helping to ordeal when, shortly after his arrival, my dad the videos and then record him sion of two Muslim men – Umar and arrange another repatriation flight, the the Indian government put the country and send them back to me, so we could Kaiser – owners of the guesthouse one that finally got Matthew out. on “lockdown,” to control the spread of communicate.” where he stayed before his illness. They Said Erica of Bassett, “She has been COVID-19, the disease caused by the Umar and Kaiser cared for Matthew cared for him day and night while he the greatest advocate and trusted friend coronavirus. “as if was their own father, without ask- was hospitalized. The men brought that I have ever met.” him food when nursing services were Matthew decided to ride out the lock- ing for anything in return” Erica added. not available. down in India instead of finding a way “And they hardly knew him when my Both Erica and Bassett credited Ni- home. But he soon became ill due to dad got sick.” cole Yates, Yarmuth’s chief of staff, for Erica, a nurse practitioner in Lou- lack of food and water. When he went her work in facilitating the flight. isville who started the GoFundMe ac- Matthew’s health continued to de- into the town of Varkala to find grocer- count to pay for her father’s journey cline, forcing him to miss two repatria- Several Louisville rabbis, cantors ies, he collapsed in a street, severely de- home, flew to San Francisco Monday to tion flights out of the country. He was and community leaders also stepped hydrated. greet him. She texted Community that finally transferred to a private hospital, in to raise money to pay for Matthew’s he could not walk when he deplaned. Erica said people were afraid to help where he arrived with urosepsis – an in- return home. All told, the GoFund- him, fearing that Westerners were fection of the urinary tract – and multi- Me account raised nearly $20,000. Erica said Matthew’s ordeal, and the bringing COVID-19 to India. organ failure. The author of 13 books, in addition to many people who came to his aid, have his travels, Matthew has visited many A social worker got him to a hospital, “They had to slow-code him to keep brought her closer to God. countries in Europe, Asia and South him alive,” Erica said, “provide advance America, using his daughter and grand- cardiac life support and get his organs daughters’ home in Louisville as “home to maintain themselves. He ended up base” between trips. IT'S YOUR JOURNEY, in the intensive care unit … for several days.” When he is home, though, father WE'LL HELP YOU and daughter love to walk the Big Four He was also isolated in the ICU until Bridge together. It’s their thing. GET THERE. a COVID-19 test could be performed. All told, he had three such tests – all Not this time, at least for now, while negative. Matthew recovers from his experience. He was transferred to a regular room “He’s a really well accomplished man, and showed strong signs of healing, but an interesting man,” Erica said. “His he was still sick and getting out of India mind was very strong, and his body was was still a problem. very strong before getting there (India). But the state he’s in is very weak.” Sen. Mitch McConnell helped facili- tate two repatriation flights, neither of She hopes that will change now that which Matthew could get on because of he is home. Our purpose is simple, to guide and empower our clients to take control of their financial journey. his condition. Erica then approached “He has a private duty nurse,” she SMALL BUSINESS SOLUTIONS BUSINESS GROWTH + TRANSITION AUDIT AND ASSURANCE Rep. John Yarmuth’s office, which she quipped. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU? www.welenken.com 502.585.3251 APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 Y Community 13 NEWS & NEWSMAKERS Flaksman men, mayors, ministers, boxers, im- To put it in perspective, a cemetery al 48-Hour Film Festival. worked on migrants, musicians and veterans rest with a capacity of 30,000 (burials KET featured Violins of Hope new docu- there), is also a cemetery where “some- ceased there in the 1980s) actually thing really went wrong.” has about 100,000 interred there, The KET program Kentucky Life fea- mentary tured an episode on last year’s Violins Not so long ago, the cemetery was according to the Friends of Eastern A Jewish Louis- Cemetery. of Hope exhibit in Louisville during villian was the overgrown, with trees growing through the month of April. cinematogra- gravesites. He said burial records weren’t accurate and many families struggled Violins of Hope is collection of string pher for a new Walking through the cemetery, instruments – mostly violins – that feature-length “there was an ominous feel to it,” to find out where their loved ones were laid to rest. survived the Holocaust. Israeli luthier documentary Flakesman said. (violin maker) Amon Weinstein, who about the historic neglect at Louis- “We wanted to help these people out received the instruments through vari- ville’s Eastern Cemetery. Even worse, families were scammed with plots that were sold and resold. find out what happened to their loved ous sources, has restored most of them. Joe Flaksman, son of Sandy Flaks- In some cases, he said, as many six ones,” Flaksman said. Today, they travel to cities around the man, worked on Facing East, produced bodies were found buried in one site. Flaksman was one of four executive world for exhibits and concerts. by Ronin Noir Films, which premiered producers on the film, the others being Miriam Ostroff, a Louisville philan- on March 13 at the Village 8. It is avail- “We thought it was going to take only three to four months of filming,” Tommy Baker, Paul Coffey, and Russ thropist who was instrumental (no able on iTunes, Amazon Prime, Vudu Allen. pun intended) in bringing the collec- and Xbox. Flaksman said. “It turned out to be three to four years. We started to fol- In addition to Facing East, Flaks- tion here, was interviewed. According to Flaksman, Eastern low a white rabbit and the rabbit went man has worked on music videos and KET aired the episode aired on April Cemetery, which has been a place down a hole; it just got deeper and short films. He has won two cinema- 18, April 19., April 23, and April 23. It of burial since 1848 (former slaves, deeper. Every story got way worse.” tography awards for his work at the also aired on KET2 on April 20. Odd Fellows, Free Masons, congress- Louisville competition of the nation- AROUND TOWN Adath Jeshurun JFCS Temple Shalom Friday, May 1, at youtube.com/the- Adath Jeshurun holds virtual min- During the coronavirus pandemic, A virtual No Shush Shabbat will be templelouky. yan services twice a day via Zoom the Sonny & Janet Meyer Food Pan- held at 6:30 p.m., Friday, April 24, on The Temple will hold its Mother’s and Facebook Live. Minyan is held try continues to provide weekly ser- Zoom. Contact information@tem- Day Shabbat at 7 p.m., Friday, May 8, weekday mornings at 7:15 a.m., Sun- vice to approximately 100 people plehshalom.org for details. at youtube.com/thetemplelouky. day mornings at 8:45 a.m. and eve- through curbside pickup and porch nings at 5:45 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat delivery. The pantry continues to re- The Temple’s first Take-Home Blue The Temple services take place on Fridays at 5:45 ceive staples from Dare to Care, but Jean Shabbat, Tot Shabbat, and All services and programming p.m. Visit adathjeshurun.com for additional items must be purchased Family Shabbat service will be held are online. Shabbat services will more details. from retail outlets. Donations can Friday, May 15. Rabbi Joe Rooks be streamed at thetemplelouky.org/ Rapport will lead Tot Shabbat at AJ is presenting an online entertain- be made at jfcslouisville.org/do- streaming/. Adult education and re- 6:45 pm and the main service at 7 ment series, “Sunday Night Live at nate/. The pantry also is accepting ligious school will move to virtual p.m. The picnic-style dinner is free Virtual AJ,” Sundays at 7 p.m. via donations in need cleaning products, classrooms. Visit thetemplelouky. if ordered by May 8, $10 afterwards Zoom and Facebook Live. The April diapers and hygiene products org/virtual/ For details. for adults, still free for children un- 26 show features comedian Myq Ka- The Temple is organizing volunteers der 13. All orders must be placed by plan performing “Small, Dork, and Keneseth Israel to provide support – grocery shop- May 13 at noon. RSVP at thetem- Handsome.” Musician Brigid Kae- KI will host services and classes on ping, meal delivery, prescription plelouky.org/blue-jean/. lin will perform “Spreading a Little Zoom until further notice. The link pickup – to those in need. Visit the- Joy on Accordion, Guitar, Piano, is https://zoom.us/j/76637576 Shavuot services can be streamed templelouky.org/help/ for details. and Saw!” on May 3. And comedian Updates on service times and events will at youtube.com/thetemplelouky: Dan Perlman will perform “Jokes be posted at kenesethisrael.com. Members who would like to speak to erev Shavuot, Thursday, May 28, 7 and Misdemeanors” on May 10. The a rabbi, including a home visit, can p.m.; morning services, Friday, May call The Temple at 502-423-1818 to 29,10:30 a.m. Tikkun Leil Shavuot Zoom audience is limited to 100 peo- NCJW-Louisville make arrangements. will be held via Zoom on May 28. ple. Visit adathjeshurun.com for While the Nearly New Shop is closed Asaf Angerman will teach at 8 p.m.; access details. during the coronavirus pandemic, A virtual Yom HaShoah/Holocaust Rabbi David Ariel-Joel, 9 p.m. Email AJ holds a “virtual coffee and real donations will be accepted once non- Memorial Shabbat, led by the sixth [email protected] for access. conversation” weekdays at 1 p.m. essential businesses may reopen. grade class, will be held at 7 p.m., Each session, which features a topic led by a member of the community, Through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, will be streamed live via Zoom and and Economic Security (CARES) Facebook Live. The next session on Act, individuals can take a $300 char- Wednesday, April 29, will feature itable deduction for contributions Darren Kendall, AIPAC’s southeast made to qualified charities in 2020, political director, speaking on the regardless of whether they itemize upcoming election. The Zoom audi- deductions. Additionally, for individ- ence is limited to 100. Visit adathje- uals, the 50 percent of adjusted gross shurun.com. income ceiling on charitable contri- butions is suspended for 2020. Chavurat Shalom Sales at the Nearly New Shop support ENRICH your entire FAMILY’S JEWISH JOURNEY Contact Sarah Harlan at 502-212- NCJW’s advocacy efforts to advance and with free Jewish bedtime stories sent monthly. 2038 or sarahharlan86@gmail. support women’s and children’s issues in Louisville. For more information, com for details about future pro- TO LEARN MORE: JEWISHLOUISVILLE.ORG/ PJLIBRARY gramming. contact the shop at 502-454-6633 or [email protected]. Jewish Federation OF LOUISVILLE 14 Community Y APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 LIFECYCLE Roberta Harriet A private graveside service will take pointed deputy director of the Chicago her with her intelligence, tenacity, Bloom place at The Temple Cemetery. A me- office and eventually rose to senior sharp wit and caring heart. Roberta Harriet morial service will be held in Louisvil- INS positions in Washington. She was a mentor, confidant and Bloom, of Pompton le at a later date. Expressions of sym- She became the agency’s director friend. Plains, New Jersey, pathy may be made to the National during the transition from the Reagan Ruth Anne is survived by her broth- beloved wife, moth- to Bush administrations before finish- er, Allan Myers (Diane) of Orlando; her er and grandmother, Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or ing her 32-year career as the director brother-in-law, Joe Rothstein of Louis- passed away Satur- the charity of the donor`s choice. of the District of Arizona and Nevada ville; her nieces and nephews, Shelley day, April 4, 2020. – the first female independently ap- Barnes (Harry), Michael Rothstein She was 87. Annette Kellem pointed director in the nation. (Doreen), Jack Rothstein (Debbie), Born in the Bronx on Jan. 24, 1933, Annette Kellem, 89, died in Wilm- An avid traveler, Ruth Anne visited Robin Anderson (Stewart), and Shari a daughter of the late Yetta and Nat ington, Delaware on April 16, 2020. all 50 states and more than 30 coun- Massey (Kevin); her great-nieces and Meisel, she was a full-time mom and Born in Philadelphia, a daughter of tries, regaling family and friends with nephews, Eric Barnes, Hilary Soroosh did a great job at it. the late Louis and Katie Tobin, she stories of her adventures. Most re- (Tim), Evan Rothstein, Connor Roth- Known as a friendly, bright light graduated from South Philadelphia cently, despite having lost much of her stein, Nicole Rothstein, and Alex Roth- who wanted to be nothing more than a High School for Girls and Temple Uni- eyesight, she visited Easter Island – a stein; and her great-great niece, Eliana loving wife, mother and grandmother. versity and went on to become a career lifelong dream. Soroosh. She was a long-time member of English teacher. Ruth Anne was active in the Brandeis She was preceded in death by her Temple Emanuel in Westfield, NJ, In addition to her parents, Annette National Committee, the American sister Elinor Rothstein. where her children grew up. was preceded in death by her husband, Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen In tribute to Ruth Anne, memorial Roberta had an infectious childlike Jacob Kellem. Foundation for the Cure, KJZZ-KBAK gifts may be made to Susan B. Komen charm and optimism. She will live for- She is survived by her children, Deb- pledge drives and the Girl Scout Ari- Foundation for the Cure and the Girls ever in the hearts of those who knew orah Slosberg (Rabbi Robert), Andrea zona Cactus Pine Council. Scouts Arizona Cactus Pine Coun- and loved her. Oxman (Robert) and Aaron Kellem. She loved to play bridge and other cil. Interment was at Keneseth Israel In addition to her parents, she was She was a devoted grandmother to games. Cemetery. preceded in death by her husband, Aliza Weinstock (Stuart), Jacob Slos- A constant in the lives of those she William Bloom. berg, Jeremy Slosberg (Emily), Karmi loved, Ruth Anne never missed a fam- Roberta is survived by her son, Dr. Gross (Aviel), Kobi Oxman and Aria ily event. She always had good advice, Steven Bloom (Dr. Karen Bloom) of Kellem; adoring great-grandmother to the latest joke and opinions on the is- Louisville; her daughter, Teri Bloom of David and Ethan; and partner to John sues of the day. New York City; and her grandchildren, Crowley She took many of her nieces and Sarah and Rabbi David Bloom. A private graveside funeral was held nephews on trips when they were Donations in honor of Roberta’s at Mt. Sharon Cemetery in Philadel- young, opening her home to them. She memory can be sent to the Cedar Crest phia. The family requests donations quietly provided financial support to Staff Appreciation Fund, 1 Cedar Crest be made to the Edna Yarmuth Melton those suffering lean times. Drive, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444 Attn: Scholarship Fund at Adath Jeshurun. Ruth Anne delighted all who knew Philanthropy Department. Ruth Anne Myers Edwin H. David Ruth Anne Myers, Edwin H. David, 61, of Louisville, 80, of Scottsdale, Arizona, a pioneer IMAGINE IF YOU COULD PROVIDE A died on Friday, April 3, 2020, at his for women in gov- GIFT TO THE JEWISH COMMUNITY THAT home. ernment service, Born on Nov. 3, 1958, a son of the passed away Tues- WOULD LAST FOREVER. late Simon and Emmy Kate David, day, March 31, 2020, Eddie attended Atherton High School in Orlando, Florida. and Bellarmine College. Born in Louis- He is survived by his sister, Peggy ville, a daughter of von Werdt, and his brother-in-law, Ni- the late David and Eva (Zimmerman) colas, of Bern, Switzerland; his bro- Myers, she attended the University of Louisville before joining the U.S. Im- ther, Stanley, and sister-in-law, Kim- migration & Naturalization Service berlee, of Alpharetta, Georgia; and his with an entry-level position in New nephews, Alexander and Benjamin of York City. Bern, and Graham and Benjamin of After postings to Cleveland, Los Alpharetta. Angeles and Washington, she was ap-

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To learn more about how to create your Jewish legacy, contact Jennifer Tuvlin at Steve Lulla Master Tailor (502) 238-3735 or [email protected]. call or text 502-807-1928 125 South English Station Road, Louisville, KY 40245 [email protected] | www.oxfordtailors.com BE REMEMBERED FOREVER IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY WITH A GIFT IN YOUR WILL, TRUST OR LIFE INSURANCE POLICY. APRIL 24, 2020 Y 30 NISAN 5780 Y Community 15 NEWS Jewish connection and organizational Services and at-large members. The these individuals and Jewish organiza- UNITY infrastructure. representatives include Green, Fleis- tions impacted by the pandemic. We Continued from page 1 “The beauty of this [time], amid so chaker, Cheryl Small, Glenn Levine, need your help. The future of our agen- support for the fund’s highest prior- much tragedy, is how it is bringing our Linda Schuster, Jane Goldstein, Larry cies and synagogues depend on your ity, human needs, included increased community together … in a thoughtful Snyder, Matt Schwartz and Rabbi Beth support. A vibrant and stable Jewish homecare assistance, delivering senior loving way,” said Stacy Gordon-Funk, Jacowitz Chottiner. Louisville depends on all of us. meals, food pantry expansion, IT sup- senior vice-president and chief develop- We know that the Jewish commu- Please make a donation or to get help port to connect with individuals and ment officer of JCL. nity’s needs will outweigh our seed today at www.jewishlouisville.org/ counseling. The task force members represent funding and will continue to grow RapidResponseFund or by calling The task force will continue to evalu- the JHFE, Jewish Community of Louis- as our community is affected by this Stacy Gordon-Funk at the Federation ate needs based on incoming funding ville, Louisville Council of Jewish Con- pandemic. office502-608-6519 . requests. The other two priorities are gregations, Jewish Family & Career All contributions will directly support

Rabbi Joe Rooks Rapport of The viewers through the Passover, infusing tion, sideways rain and the unbeliev- HISTORY Temple, records of Jewish Louisville’s humorous and creativity in ways not able images of my city in shambles,” Continued from page 4 fledgling Benevolent Society mention possible with the printed word. Some she wrote in her thesis. For one week, Relief Association in Memphis. a $154 contribution – about $4,000 in of the videos are sadly serious, such as she didn’t even know if her mother was And in New Orleans, following the today’s currency – to help yellow fever Rabbi Ari Plost’s equation of The Four still alive. yellow fever epidemic of 1853, Rabbi victims in New Orleans.) Questions with his father, who had She believes rabbis are responding James Gutheim, who also remained in Romano thinks today’s rabbis are been hospitalized for more than 60 to the coronavirus the same way as his city during the outbreak, became a poised to develop new forms of infra- days, tethered to a ventilator. their predecessors, responded to the founder of the Touro Infirmary and the structure to serve their communities. Everywhere, Romano said, rabbis own crises of their day. Hebrew Widows and Orphans Home. Many are already taking to the inter- are using portals and digital resources Despite the rising death toll, the All these institutions were designed net to do so, starting Facebook pages to create a “spiritual and emotional economic pain and the social distanc- to respond to crises and communal where they share their coronavirus ex- connection.” ing, Romano believes that “something needs where none previously existed. periences and ways to respond. “Instead of visiting a bedside, we are beautiful” and lasting can come out of “Out of these historic epidemics In a piece of Passover-specific in- having a FaceTime call and a Zoom this experience. came both interfaith relationships, but frastructure, rabbis from around the call,” she said. “Rabbis in their communities will also new infrastructure for the Jewish world have created a virtual hagadah Her interest in “disaster history“ rally just as they have in the past,” communities,” Romano said. that speaks to the coronavirus experi- comes from personal experience. Ro- she said. “They will find new ways to (Gutheim also reached out to other ence. The Middle Matzah Haggadah: A mano was 15 in 2005, growing up near create institutions and collaboration. Jewish communities for assistance Digital Telling for time of Brokenness, New Orleans, when Hurricane Katrina We’re already seeing it.” during the epidemic. According to is a patchwork of videos by rabbis, lay made landfall. leaders and their families, taking the “I have vivid memories of evacua-

The Jewish Community of Louisville gratefully acknowledges donations to the following

DREW CORSON YOUTH ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIP FUND Change someone’s In memory of Rena Dolins Steve and Teri Corson life, including JOSEPH FINK BBYO COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Julius Heins your own. In memory of Kathy Lobred Diana Fink

SAMUEL A. GLAUBINGER YOUTH FUND In memory of Sandra I Zelen Alan and Janice Glaubinger

SANDRA K BERMAN SHALOM LOUISVILLE FUND In Memory of Salomon Podgursky Alan Glaubinger In Memory of William "Bill" Klein In Memory of Ruby Tasman Harris Berman

JCC NEW BUILDING FUND In Memory of William "Bill" Klein Greg Hintz Jane Goldstein Carol and Jacob Wishnia When you volunteer at Hosparus Health, you can Alan and Janice Glaubinger Ruby Gordon expect nothing less than the satisfying feeling you Simon Wolf get when you make a real difference in someone’s Bob and Margie Kohn Jean Trager life. Get started today! Visit HosparusHealth.org to Amy and Steve Trager Shelley Trager Kusman complete your application.

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