The Award Winning » BE HAPPY! IT’S ADAR!
BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD | WWW.BUFFALOJEWISHFEDERATION.ORG FEBRUARY 2019 | SHEVAT – ADAR 5779
ENSURING A SAFER JEWISH BUFFALO (3)
LOOK: DON’T MISS: INSIDE: DIFFERENCE BUFFALO MOMS 2018 MAKERS TO ISRAEL HONOR ROLL (10-20) (21) (40-44)
SPREE MA ALO GA FF ZIN BU E
SPREE MA ALO GA FF ZIN BU E
Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month Schedule Your Child’s Dental Cleaning and Check Up
5462 SHERIDAN DRIVE | WILLIAMSVILLE * Raffl e will be available at the event with proceeds benefi tting Soccer for Success. 716.831.8018 | WWW.ALTMANDENTAL.COM WHAT’S INSIDE...
Published by The Award Winning BE HAPPY! IT’S ADAR! February 2019 » Buffalo Jewish Federation 2640 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068 Editor’s Note On The Cover 716-204-2241 BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD | WWW.BUFFALOJEWISHFEDERATION.ORG FEBRUARY 2019 | SHEVAT – ADAR 5779 www.buffalojewishfederation.org
CEO/Executive Director...... Rob Goldberg President...... Leslie Shuman Kramer Editor, Public Relations Director...... Ellen S. Goldstein
ENSURING A SAFER JEWISH The Buffalo Jewish Federation Is a proud member BUFFALO of the Jewish Federations of North America and the (3) American Jewish Press Association Produced by Ellen Goldstein, Editor The Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund will ensure Buffalo Jewish agencies, synagogues and organizations greater
It has been three months since the horrific attack security for their members and the general Buffalo Jewish
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE CHANGE LOOK: DON’T MISS: INSIDE:
Permit No. 4 No. Permit DIFFERENCE BUFFALO MOMS 2018
on Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue, and the Jewish PA Williamsport,
PAID
Community at-large.14068 NY LogoGetzville, byMAKERS Shaun Maciejewaki;TO ISRAEL HONOR cover ROLL
US Postage US
2640 North Forest Road Forest North 2640 (10-20) (21) ( 40-44) Presorted STD. Presorted
Community in North America is still recovering. Here design by Kim Miers.Federation Jewish Buffalo Publisher/Chief Revenue Officer...... Barbara E. Macks in Buffalo, the murder of 11 Jews so close to home has [email protected] pushed us into action, creating the Secure Jewish Buffalo Senior Vice President/Creative Director...... Chastity O'Shei [email protected] Fund. Following a meeting about security with leaders of 3 A Message from Leslie Shuman Kramer Vice President/Production...... Jennifer Tudor all our Jewish agencies and synagogues, Federation leaders Give to the Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund [email protected] concluded that there is a need for a centralized security Ellen Weiss Elected Chair of NEW Center Lead Designer...... Kimberly Miers 4 [email protected] coordination to represent the Jewish community with law for Jewish Engagement & Learning enforcement, and have a central point of communication Senior Graphic Designers...... Josh Flanigan, Andrea Rowley, for security and threat assessment. Thus, with agencies and 5 Nickel City Jews: New Year, New Look! Jean-Pierre Thimot, Nicholas Vitello Traffic Coordinator...... synagogues in agreement, the Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund Adam Van Schoonhoven 6 Concert in Memory of Cantor Susan Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager...... Marianne Potratz was born. Wehle February 9 [email protected] Since launching the fund the last week in December, 7 Israeli Security Expert to speak Sales Director...... Cynthia Oppenheimer, nearly $90,000 has been contributed! You can read more February 11 [email protected] about the specifics of what the fund will be used for on Senior Account Executives...... Robin Kurss, [email protected] page 3. If you have not yet done so, please consider a gift 8-9 Buffalo Lions Roar Betty Tata, [email protected] to this fund that will help make Jewish Buffalo safer in Leslie Shuman Kramer Honored at ILOJC Proofreaders ...... Sharon C. Levite, Amy Goldstein these perilous times. There is a form on page 3 you can fill 10 Difference Makers: Irwin Gelman out and mail in with your check, or you can donate online 12 Difference Makers: Tova and Bob Ablove Members of at www.buffalojewishfederation.org. This is a gift that will help all of us. 13 Difference Makers: Ella Rae Greene This month, we are also celebrating some more of 14 Difference Makers: Amelida and Madi Buffalo’s talented, generous Jewish Difference Makers. Weinmann Submissions: Highlighted for their impact on our community are 16-17 Difference Makers: Monte Hoffman, Submit editorial stories, photos, and calendar items by the 1st of the preceding month of issue to [email protected]. daughter and mother Madi and Amelida Weinmann, Cantor Robbie Hausmann, Roman Mekinulov Irwin Gelman, Drs. Tova and Bob Ablove, 4th grader Ella Rae To Advertise: Greene; Howard, Alan and David Rosenhoch; BPO cellists 18 Difference Makers: Charlie Shuman To advertise, call Cynthia Oppenheimer at 716-783-9119 x2240. Robbie Hausmann, Monte Hoffman and Roman Mekinulov; 20 Difference Makers: Howard, Alan and Ad space & materials are due by the 10th of each month prior to publication. For a rate card and any additional information, please and community philanthropist Charlie Shuman. I hope you David Rosenhoch email Cynthia Oppenheimer [email protected] enjoy their stories. I loved them! 22 5 Things You Can Do or Barbara Macks [email protected]. Finally, all the generous donors to the 2018 Campaign to repair the world in February To Subscribe: for Jewish Buffalo are listed on pages 40-44 this month, 23 February Calendar To subscribe, visit www.buffalojewishfederation.org and click on except for those who wish to remain anonymous. Thank you “JJWNY subscription.” Free for Western New York area residents and for helping to keep our Buffalo Jewish Community vibrant 24 Special Advertising Supplement: Meet Your Chef donors to the Campaign. Non-resident subscription is $36 for 12 and caring through your generous donations. Wishing you a issues, payable to The Jewish Journal. sunny February, wherever you may be. 24-25 Special Advertising Supplement: The Jewish Journal of WNY (JJWNY) reserves the right to cancel any advertisement at Dining Guide any time. The Buffalo Jewish Federation and Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. are not liable for the content or errors appearing in the advertisements beyond the cost of 26-27 Organizations & Synagogue Listings the space occupied. The JJWNY does not assume responsibility for the kashrut of any product or service advertised in this paper. Editorials, columns, advertisements, 28-29 Synagogue Happenings agency reports and other outside articles do not necessarily represent the views of the newspaper or the Buffalo Jewish Federation, but rather express the view of Ellen Goldstein - Editor 30-37 Agency Events the writer. 38-39 Jews in the News All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it “illegal to advertise “based on race, color, religion, 40-44 2018 Campaign for Jewish Buffalo sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept Honor Roll any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal 45 In Loving Memory opportunity basis.
2 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 COMMUNITY A Message from Leslie Shuman Kramer President, Buffalo Jewish Federation Many in our Jewish community and across the country were shocked by the This past October, I had the privilege of attending the Jewish Federations of tragedy last October at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. North America’s General Assembly (GA) in Tel Aviv. The theme of the GA was “Let’s Sadly, it did not surprise others. As we all know, anti-Semitism has been on the Talk,” referring to the need for the North American and Israeli Jewish communities rise, including here in Western New York – in schools, public spaces, and online. to dialogue. In addition to focusing on what IS working, the GA addressed the A recent ADL report shows a 57 percent increase from 2016. challenges between the two communities and highlighted examples of how to The threat of an attack like that in Pittsburgh keeps us up at night. While strengthen our relationship. some of our Jewish organizations have made significant strides in preparedness, prevention and protection, much more needs to be done to ensure a SAFER The GA provided informative plenaries Jewish Buffalo. and discussion on a host of subjects relating We are now asking for your help. Please contribute today to Jewish Federation’s to Israel and the Diaspora. It also afforded new Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund. us opportunities to connect with friends and colleagues, both American and Israeli, and Your gift will go directly to support: to participate in special events (a Koolulam singing event in Tel Aviv: https://www. • Targeted grants for security upgrades facebook.com/koolulam/). A big take away for to synagogues and other community me was that while North American and Israeli partners; Jews make strides to understand each other, • Security training for communal and we know each other less than I thought—and it religious leaders; goes both ways. Leslie Shuman Kramer • Hiring of a Jewish Security Liaison to I understood that many secular Israelis see engage law enforcement and connect themselves as Jewish through their national from the other, cannot hold up. I them to the local Jewish community; identity (“I live in Israel, I served in the army, encourage you to watch her address • Interventions in local schools when that’s Jewish enough.”) while we Jews in North at: https://youtu.be/TwZPk88W-7s. anti-Semitism incidents occur, and America largely identify ourselves as Jewish I believe that in order to bridge these education to counter hate before it through our religious affiliation and our gaps, we must first know each other takes root. community connections (“I belong to a Temple, through personal relationships. The I had a Bar Mitzvah, that’s my Judaism”). At Jewish Agency’s Partnership 2Gether Our goal is to raise $150,000. As of January 18, the GA, I learned that many don’t know of or program was highlighted at the GA, we have raised nearly $90,000. Please give today. understand how we in North America practice and we in Buffalo have experienced Judaism, or the variety and differences between and enjoyed its impact. For example, Part of the reason more lives were not lost in Pittsburgh, is that the Tree of Life Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist and on the Buffalo Israel Experience trip Synagogue had undergone a security assessment, its staff was trained, and they Orthodox Judaism. that followed the GA in October, 77 followed emergency procedures. I left wondering how we can relate to one Buffalonians visited our Partnership That is the purpose of this fund – to create resources to invest in training and another better, sharing the rich religious and region in the Western Galilee where facilitate a communications network that will enhance community-wide security. cultural Jewish communal life that we hold we dined in small, intimate groups We need to do more! This is, quite literally, a matter of life and death. Don’t wait. dear here in a Gentile country, with Jews who at the homes of Israeli volunteers Please give generously to this vital cause. live in the Jewish state. And how do we stay who long to learn from us and share “one global Jewish Nation” when our politics, their own lives and experiences. We SECURE JEWISH BUFFALO FUND which for many in older generations seemed discussed politics, family, way of life, aligned with one another, are now often in and many other topics. A visit to our conflict with one another. partnership is visiting family—we are NAME: ______Two and three generations ago, many Israeli building bridges and real connections. and North American Jews shared a recent At a recent Partnership meeting, ancestry and common history. Many of us were the Mayor of Akko (a city in the $180 $360 $500 $1000 Other $______immigrants from Europe and as such shared Western Galilee) asked us to help much of our past, and our perspectives with them build community. That was a THREE EASY WAYS TO GIVE TODAY: one another. As we move further away from profound moment for me. As Diaspora CHECK ONLINE that time, there is greater distance between us Jews we’ve learned that building Make your check out to: Visit our website and fewer naturally shared experiences. As a community sustains us. It is ironic Buffalo Jewish Federation and mail it to make a secure gift online: world Jewish community, we need to work to that in (particularly secular) Israel, to the address below. www,buffalojewishfederation.org understand each other and to establish those where “everyone is Jewish”, and ties that bind us as family. precisely because of that, they need CREDIT CARD Danna Azrieli, a GA Co-Chair and the our help to build Jewish community. MASTERCARD VISA AMEX chairman of the Azrieli Group, Israel’s largest I am so proud and excited to be Real Estate Development Company, powerfully part of our vibrant, active and caring Name of cardholder ______described the complicated relationship community here in Buffalo. I look between Israeli and North American Jewry in forward to continuing to build bridges Card number ______Security Code______her address to the GA. She described it as an and community here in WNY, with Arch—each community representing one side our partners in Israel, and perhaps MAIL TO: Buffalo Jewish Federation, 2640 North Forest Road, Getzville, NY 14068 of the arch that, without the push and tension teaching just as much as we learn. February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 3 COMMUNITY Ellen Weiss Elected Chair of NEW Center for Jewish Engagement and Learning
Ellen Weiss has been elected (JFNA), and serves as her Class chair. Weiss explained that as the new Center Chair of the new Center for Jewish The Center for Jewish Engagement continues to evolve “we are deeply Engagement and Learning (former and Learning is an outgrowth of the committed to inspiring individuals to Bureau of Jewish Education). As merger of the Buffalo Jewish Federation’s access Jewish tradition in powerful and volunteer leader of this important new engagement department and Buffalo’s transformative ways.” entity, Ellen was at the helm of last Bureau for Jewish Education. Built upon More information about the Center for year’s highly successful Engagement a foundation of engagement principles, Jewish Engagement and Learning can be Conference, which deepened her the purpose of The Center for Jewish found online at buffalojewishfederation. commitment to expanding and Engagement and Learning is three-fold: org/engagementandlearning/ or contact amplifying engagement efforts in our 1) to engage and connect with individuals [email protected] community. and families; 2) to create opportunities A graduate of the University of for meaningful, purposeful and relevant Michigan, Ellen holds an MBA from Jewish exploration, and, 3) to amplify the University at Buffalo School of the good work of partner agencies and Management. She is a recipient of synagogues. February Federation’s Ruth and Milton Kahn Many of our community’s learning Young Leadership Award and has held and engagement projects have made is many volunteer leadership positions their new home in The Center for Jewish in agencies throughout Jewish Buffalo. Ellen Weiss Engagement and Learning including Jewish Disability Ellen currently sits on Federation’s Nickel City Jews, Hebrew High, PJ Library Month Executive Committee and Board and is Women’s Philanthropy Board through & PJ Our Way, Yad B’Yad, Mussar groups, a member of the prestigious National Jewish Federations of North America and Adult Learning opportunities. Ellen
Sunday Funday is in full-swing at the My Grown Up & Me Storytime! Meet other grown ups and kiddos while we sing songs, play in different spaces, and read PJ Library Books together. This storytime is designed for infants and toddlers.
February 24th 10:00 AM Whole Foods, 3139 Sheridan Drive, Amherst, NY 14226
To Register: FREE! Email Nicole: [email protected]
4 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 COMMUNITY New Year, New Look, Bonnie New Co-President is Buffalo! Although January 1, 2019 is not one of the four Jewish New Years (Rosh Hashanah, Tu B’Shevat, 1 Nisan, and 1 Elul), Buffalo Jewish Federation’s Nickel City Jews (NCJ) rang in this 2019 new year with a new Co-President and a new look. Zahava Fried is the new Nickel City Jews Co-President, filling the space Spectacular & Exclusive, gated “Marrano” Patio Home Community situated in the heart vacated by Gabby Balderman, who finished her term in December, alongside of Williamsville, New York. This executive style Jake Katz, who continues as Co-President. residence features an amazing 1st floor master suite with hardwood floors throughout. Some of talents at PALS - Kadimah, where the additional features include: exquisite, private manicured grounds, covered porch, patio she is a Pre-School educator. She overlooking pond with thousands of dollars in and her husband, Yaakov, moved to professional landscaping, gorgeous gourmet Buffalo in 2016 when Yaakov began kitchen with quartz island & counters, upgraded his studies at the Jacobs School of appliances, full house generator, 2nd floor 16x10 library loft, 2 additional bedrooms and full bath, Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. 75 gallon water heater, purifying water system & They currently reside in Amherst 9 Harbridge • $519,900 California Closets. Several feet were added to the with their 7-month-old daughter, front and back of this home when built. Lilah. “I’m looking forward to building Elegant, traditional brick home with contemporary on a successful 2018 year for Nickel flair, situated on the most outstanding street and City Jews and continuing to work park-like setting. Rarely does a custom home in this condition ever come on the market. Decorated with our great leadership team,” Jake to perfection by “Karen Fick” w/soaring ceilings, said. “We are excited about our new hardwood floors w/inlaids, crown molding Shabbat initiative and our upcoming throughout, 2 story curved staircase, 3.5 baths, all white gourmet kitchen, 2 Asko dishwashers, 2 story schedule for 2019.” Zahava and Jake library, huge 20 ft laundry, generator, roof - 2012, air each bring a passion for exploring & furnace 2010, 3.5 car garage, Anderson windows, and expressing their Judaism in exquisite professional landscaped wooded lot w/ stone seating areas on 2 level patios. Beyond your individual ways. Co-Presidents Jake Katz & Zahava Fried expectations. Home is adjacent to Reinstein Nature To continue with our new Preserve. adventures, Nickel City Jews 42 Countryside Lane • $399,900 “I am thrilled to be part of the Leadership Team of NCJ, an organization which is so close to my heart,” Zahava said. “I’m excited to work alongside Jake and the Executive BONNIE CLEMENT Committee to bring together Buffalo’s Jewish Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker Young Adults to help build a strong cohesive Jewish Buffalo.” Cell: 716.553.8384 In her role on the Nickel City Jews Executive [email protected] | BonnieClement.com Committee, Zahava brought vibrancy, energy and a passion for Jewish life in Buffalo to the HUNT ERA Williamsville Village Branch: group’s collective work. Together with Shiri 5570 Main Street, 1st Floor, Williamsville, NY 14221 Kester, a fellow NCJ Executive Committee Member, she worked to plan and execute Light the Night, NCJ’s Hanukkah Celebration also unveiled a new logo. With at Buffalo Distilling Co. in Larkinville this a simplistic vibe, thin lines, and past December. neat lettering, the new logo works Zahava, a native of Pittsburgh, PA, well with that of our umbrella Small Law Firm fashioned her college studies as an organization, the Center for Jewish 1904 Liberty Building opportunity to travel around the world, Engagement and Learning. from Yeshiva University in New York City to For more information contact Buffalo, NY 14202 studying in Jerusalem for a year. Zahava is a Nicole@buffalojewishfederation. classically trained singer, and now uses her org.
Give to the Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund www.buffalojewishfederation.org Personal Injury Attorney • Small Firm, Big Difference
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 5 COMMUNITY IN MEMORY OF CANTOR SUSAN WEHLE How I Wish You’d Traveled by Boat By Gunilla Kester, in memory of Cantor Susan Wehle
How I wish you’d traveled by boat up the salt-mixed Hudson to old Erie Canal, caressed by air curling your hair into knots we could’ve unraveled together, slowly, without words, east-west, north-south, so that stupid journalist would never have called me your “pal” and because that’s the way to go,
with dignity the way ancient Viking ships carried furs, slaves and amber. We, too, vessels of warmth, the enslaved, golden beauty. Going slowly under clouds until coast gives way to dark mountains, rising shadows pierced by night fires, pearls scattered among ashes.
Traveling a day or two, a night, or two nights and a day. Taking your time. Smoke from the boat’s chimney lingers in your hair, mingles slowly, like a man and a woman in love. Not in a hurry. It’s the way to return, early, before
dawn, cold and eager, still wrapped in midnight’s velvet when poets stay, look at stars, trace a word or two in dew on the railing or in notebooks. Your book is closed. How I wish you had traveled by boat.
This poem is one of several written in memory of Cantor Susan Wehle. She was the best editor I have ever met: quick, decisive, alert. Her sense of melody, cadence, rhythm, beat, and what she called “the line” was inimical; I miss it every day. She turned my “Swenglish” poetic outbursts into publishable poetry! Whenever I showed up with some scribbles on a piece of paper, she would drop what she was doing and give it a fair reading. She didn’t mince her words and was a stickler for correctness. Since we lost her, almost ten years ago, I have carried on the best I could on my own. - GK
6 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 COMMUNITY Security Expert Addresses Challenges of the IDF Lecture on Monday, February 11 at Hillel of Buffalo Correction Amiel BaKehila, part of the Ohr Torah Meitarim, one of Israel’s largest gap year Stone (OTS) network, returns to Buffalo programs for young men and women, to January this month for several programs featuring secular and observant, and is on the board Jordan Herzberg, Israel Security Expert of the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies. Jewish Journal and Rabbi Reuven Spolter, the program’s The president of Israel Security Tours, director. Herzberg and Spolter will meet Jordan has a BA with Honors in Political On page 25 of the January with children at PALS-Kadimah, Ohr Science and Judaic Studies from the issue of The Jewish Journal, Temimim and Kadimah Academy, as well University of Michigan, and a Master the story indicated that as residents of Federation Housing, UB of Arts in Law and Diplomacy from the Steven Cohen of HoganWillig students and community leaders at a Fletcher School at Tufts University, did pro bono legal work variety of forums. including studies at the John F. Kennedy relating to the new Temple Mr. Herzberg will speak on “Ethics, Morality School of Government at Harvard Beth Tzedek building project. and the IDF: The Challenges of Being a Moral Jordan Herzberg University and Harvard Business School. That was incorrect. TBT Army” Monday, February 11 at 7:30 pm at Jordan participated in hundreds of OTS Amiel BaKehila, is a new initiative member Steven B. Bengart Hillel of Buffalo’s new home (520 Lee Entrance hours of back channel negotiations under the auspices of Israel’s Ministry of Bengart & DeMarco, LLP UB Commons, Suite 101B). Prior to Herzberg’s with neighboring Arab heads of of Diaspora Affairs that brings dynamic in fact was the attorney who address, Professor Sergey Dolgopolski of UB’s state, and has advised several Israeli programming, speakers and educators provided legal counsel to the Department of Jewish Thought will provide government ministers. to our Buffalo community. Volunteer Temple regarding the sale of introductory remarks. This event is free and Volunteering as a lone soldier in coordinators of the program are Barb the Getzville Rd. campus to open to the community. the Israel Defense Forces Paratrooper Chazen and Lori Morrison and funding the Northtown Automotive Lieutenant Colonel (Reserves) Jordan Brigade, Jordan served in several for the initiative is made possible by the Companies. Herzberg has been active in diplomacy, different combat theaters, including Buffalo Jewish Federation. security, political and business affairs in Israel extensive military service in Lebanon Contact Rob Goldberg at rob@ for over 20 years. Serving as a track two and Judea/Samaria. He also served buffalojewishfederation.org for more diplomat for several Israeli Prime Ministers, as Chairman of Mechinat Lachish information or with questions.
Rent assisted apartments for seniors & mobility-impaired adults Jewish Federation Apartments
Watch your favorite shows with your new friends on our big screen TV!
Great room • Media room • Wifi • Fitness center Data center • Beauty salon • Laundry facilities Full time social worker • Activities • Transportation 24 hour emergency maintenance • Two elevators • Library Computer room • Pool table • Emergency medical call system • Chapel • Card room • Large screen tv Open to all religious denominations Jewish Federation Apartments 275 Essjay Road Williamsville, NY 14221
For application information please call 716-631-8471 www.JewishFederationApartments.org *Jewish Federation Apartments does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its federally assisted program and activities.
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 7 COMMUNITY Buffalo Lions of Judah…the Story Continues Leslie Shuman Kramer Honored at International Lion Conference
New Federation President Leslie Shuman Kramer was honored at the prestigious International Federation’s Campaign at different times, and her father, Irving Lion of Judah Conference (ILOJC) last month in Miami. This distinction, named for Lion of Judah M. Shuman z”l, was president of the Federation from 1996-1998. founders Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby Friedland z”l honors extraordinary women who have set a “My life has always revolved around being Jewish,” she said. “My high standard for philanthropy and volunteerism. This year at the conference, the 1,400 women in parents were role models for leadership, and when I became a attendance–including 14 women from our community–raised over $35 million dollars toward the 2019 Lion, I was following my mother’s example.” Campaign. “I love how we Jews take care of each other,” Kramer said. “We are nothing without community, so for me, becoming a Lion was Every other year, The Jewish an honor and privilege. It’s thrilling to both be able to be a part Federations of North America asks each of a community like Buffalo where individuals can and do make a community to nominate a woman for difference, and to be living at a time and place where we can thrive the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award. In and live as free Jews. I love that we can spend our time focusing 1972, Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby on making our own community better. I am thrilled to be able to Friedland z”l had a revolutionary idea… do this through Buffalo Jewish Federation, its Lions of Judah, and for women to make a personal statement through JFNA’s National Women’s Philanthropy.” about their values and commitment to the “One important characteristic of Lions is that we share basic Jewish people with an individual gift of at values when it comes to the Jewish world,” she continued. “We least $5,000 to the annual Campaign—the are not just a bunch of women with fancy pins. We care about creation of the Lion of Judah concept. our communities and each other, and we roll up our sleeves to Since then, it has become a phenomenon. get the work done. When I meet another Lion, I think ‘I know you The Lion of Judah pin was established in care about what I care about.’ Among us, there is an immediate the 1970 by these two outstanding Florida connection and bond. It is a sisterhood that’s inclusive, one in women with the idea that $5,000 would be which we help each other blossom.” the cost that our agencies like HIAS would “Leslie’s passion for Jewish Buffalo is unparalleled, and her spend to bring a Russian family to the commitment to ensuring our community’s significant survival is US. Jewish women said, ‘We can support an inspiration,” notes Rob Goldberg, Buffalo Jewish Federation’s bringing families to America or Israel. If I CEO. “And while Leslie’s deep roots in Buffalo ground her, her give $5,000, this is what it can do.’” And foothold in Israel, with NWP and as a proud Lion, provide her with this powerful project became a tangible a global perspective that enriches her leadership. She is in a word platform for a mitzvah. – remarkable!” Leslie recently endowed her Lion gift because she wants to insure that the things she cares about in this community can continue to be cared for by her in perpetuity. “When I was able to endow my gift, I was happy to do it, but I didn’t realize how emotional that would be for me,” Kramer explained. “To be able to make my own mark on my community as a Jewish woman is an amazing opportunity that I don’t take for granted. And I am proud to do it in partnership with my husband, Jim, who shares my commitment to the future of the Jewish community.” North America’s National Women’s Philanthropy The pin is now an internationally Board, where she holds the recognized symbol of philanthropy, portfolio of Vice Chair of commitment, Jewish values and Community Engagement. sisterhood worn by approximately 18,000 “I feel blessed to be able women across the globe. “I am honored to spend much of my time and humbled to be receiving this beautiful involved in the Jewish award,” said Kramer. “I share it with many world, for which I have other deserving women who make such always had a passion,” a difference in their communities, and she said. As co-chair of for whom I have so much respect. I look the 2017 national Heart up to all the previous winners in this to Heart Mission to Israel community—Janet Desmon, Holly Levy, she was excited to travel Bonnie Clement, Ellen Reis, my mother- on the trip with 10 other Marilyn Shuman, who won the award in Buffalo women. 2014.” Leslie was born to be a Leslie Shuman Kramer is currently leader in the Buffalo President of the Buffalo Jewish Federation Jewish Community. Both and is a member of Jewish Federation of her parents chaired the 8 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 COMMUNITY
The Lion of Judah Conference is a highlight of the JFNA National Women’s Philanthropy program. Over 1400 women (500 first timers) from throughout North America and Lion Sisters from Israel attended the conference. For 3 days we connected, learned, and celebrated together. While many of us are aware how Federation helps Israel and our local agencies, I was touched to learn more details how Jewish Federation of North America assisted during the attacks in Parkland, Florida and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in addition to the hurricane in Houston and fires in California. When Jews are in need of help, Federation is the light to help guide us through the tragedy. - Ellen Weiss, LOJE
Buffalo Lions in Florida Attending the International LOJ Convention (ILOJC) in Florida were: (Bottom row- seated) Anne Virag, Bonnie Clement, Barbara Rich, Leslie Shuman Kramer, Marilyn Shuman, Penny Shuman. (Top Row- standing) Amelida Weinmann, Maxine Awner, Joni Shatkin, Ellen Weiss Kim Yonaty, Ellen Reis, Janet Desmon, Holly Levy and Randi Morkisz.
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 9 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS
which is the Conservative movement’s professional organization for cantors.
Science and Religion Although science and religion are often seen as at odds with one another, Irwin is no “Dr. Jekyll and Cantor Hyde.” Rather, he finds sparks of the divine in both. Irwin remarks, “I am a cantor not just because I grew up with it, but because it is tremendously spiritual for me. It gives Irwin Gelman: me a lot of passion. I think that spills over to my science work. In science, there is Cantor-Geneticist tremendous spirituality. I can feel that spirituality in reading an amazing science By Rabbi Sara Rich paper, but also in praying, singing and hearing good spiritual prayer.” There is only one likely path for a child who sang solos Today, Cantor Gelman serves as the on the High Holidays at his father’s synagogue starting Cantor of Congregation Beth Abraham, at age five, and whose favorite toy at age seven was a located in the Elmwood Village. The chemistry set, and that is the path of Cantor Dr. Irwin synagogue has a monthly musical Friday Gelman: a Distinguished Professor of Oncology at Roswell night service, as well as High Holiday Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Founder and Chief services, a community Seder, and social Scientific Officer of Veronomics, Inc., and Cantor at Beth and educational programs. He has also Abraham Synagogue. Irwin is driven by his passions, and served on the boards of the Holocaust he houses a deep fascination with scientific discovery Resource Center and Hillel, and has as well as a lifelong love of chazzanut (the musical art served for seven years on the Board of of cantorial singing). In fact, science and music are such Mara & Irwin Gelman; photo by CLICK-Linda Gellman Trustees of the JCC, including his current integral parts of Irwin that you might even say they are in term as Secretary. his genes - but he will be the judge of that. Following his participation in a Buffalo Irwin is a man who embraces Jewish Federation sponsored ecumenical The Cancer Researcher clergy mission to Israel last year, Irwin At Roswell Park, Dr. Gelman serves as the Director of the both the spiritual soundtrack of life and has become involved in local interfaith Roswell Park Gene Modulation Core lab, the Director of Research the scientific quest for exploration. work. His personal interest in interfaith Integration, and as the Academic Chair of the Cancer Genetics, relationship-building fits nicely with Genomics and Development Program, having previously served the work of his wife, Mara Koven- as the Palisano Chair of Cancer Genetics. His research focuses Charles became a cantor at a synagogue in nearby Hamden and Gelman, who serves as the Buffalo Jewish on the genetic mutations that cause various types of cancer and introduced his son Irwin at an early age to the melodies and Federation’s Director of Community finding the treatment to which each unique genetic mutation customs of the rich Eastern European Jewish musical heritage. Relations. Irwin is moved by the shared will be most responsive. Through his research, Dr. Gelman Over the years, Irwin absorbed this music, and learned directly humanity that he finds when he speaks has identified a testing platform that will make the discovery from his father and his father’s community of friends who also to people of other faiths. “If you talk of these matches of mutations and treatment more efficient were cantors in Europe and who were determined to preserve and share, you learn the commonality and accurate. He founded Veronomics, which is a start-up their traditions and pass them on to the next generation. between our religions. We are all doing venture that delivers this testing platform to companies that are At age 13, Irwin celebrated not one, but two Bar Mitzvahs – the the same things: marking a milestone developing treatments, and which will eventually allow for the first at Young Israel so that those who did not travel on Shabbat in the life of a child, sanctifying love creation of patient-specific treatment plans that are specific to could attend, and the second the following week at his father’s between two people, or helping a person the genetic root of their cancer. synagogue. This meant leading two full services, learning to and a community through the stages Although Dr. Gelman has been working for decades in chant two full Torah and Haftarah portions and delivering two of mourning.” He recently became a scientific research (including volunteering in a Yale University unique speeches. That fall, he made his full (amateur) cantorial member of the NAACP and hopes to lab as a high schooler), he shows no signs of slowing down. He debut. A small congregation in Northwestern Connecticut build new interfaith and intercultural loves the collegial atmosphere at Roswell and the investment needed someone to lead High Holiday services. His father partnerships in the future. that they make in mentoring researchers who are early in their assured them that his son was capable, and after Irwin received From the liturgy and rituals that career. He is fascinated by the new frontier of cancer research permission from the yeshiva where he was studying to take two nourish our souls to the genetic mutations that focuses on the genetic mutations that cause cancer, rather weeks off of school to learn the special prayers and melodies in our DNA, Irwin is a man who embraces than the area of the body where the cancer is manifest, and he is for the High Holidays, indeed he was quite capable. For years both the spiritual soundtrack of life and ignited by the awareness that each new discovery brings a host of after, he traveled to different congregations in Connecticut and the scientific quest for exploration. unanswered questions that are waiting to be explored. in other parts of the United States to lead High Holiday services, Rabbi Sara Rich is Executive Director and in doing so has brought pieces of his family’s musical of Hillel of Buffalo. The Cantor legacy to the contemporary Jewish community. But what about that five-year-old singing in the shul? Cantor While Cantor Gelman was a post-doctoral research fellow Gelman is a fourth, possibly fifth-generation chazzan (cantor). His at Rockefeller University in New York, he was hired as a cantor father, Cantor Charles Gelman, learned cantorial music privately at the Conservative Synagogue of Fifth Avenue. Although he as a teenager in Vilna, and after surviving the Holocaust, arrived had been leading services for years at this point, he received as a refugee in the United States and settled in New Haven, Conn. an additional credential when he joined the Cantors Assembly, 10 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 Join our new VIP mobile club! Buffalo’s Best Tot Shabbat@ Text BAGELVIP mouth-watering to 51660 N.Y. bagels since 1976 Congregation homemade shmears deli sandwiches • soups • salads Beth Abraham fi nest dark roasted coffees • fresh-baked bagels signature tuna fi sh • and more! Families met for a joyous service MARSHALL’S PLAZA 2130 Delaware Ave, Buffalo 716.874.1800 January 11 in the city. Let us do the work! 4498 MAIN ST. Snyder, NY 14226 716.839.2222 SHIVAH PLATTERS DASH’S PLAZA 100 A Plaza Dr, Williamsville 716.639.1000 KIDDUSH PLATTERS N.Y. WEDDING BRUNCHES Pickup & Dropoff service available WWW.BAGELJAYS.COM
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 11 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS
noticed an opening for a division chief Tova and Bob Ablove: Championing of uro-gynecology at the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and encouraged his Impactful Patient Care and Education wife to apply. When she got the job, Bob also joined the faculty performing hand, By Ezra N. Rich shoulder and elbow surgery. They both Buffalo is a place of historical signifi- also see patients as doctors in the UBMD cance to the study of medicine as well as network. the evolution of the American Jewish expe- “I always wanted to return to the East rience. One dynamic couple is embracing Coast and I was happy to come to Bob’s and advancing both legacies today. hometown,” Tova recalls. Obviously, Bob’s mother was pleased! The move back A Student of Jewish Buffalo has offered the Ablove daughters the Dr. Robert H. and Dr. Tova S. Ablove are chance to bond more with their Buffalo grounded in a storied past while paving the way grandmother, as well as Tova’s family in for a resurgent future for medical research and New York City. As the fourth generation in Jewish education in the Queen City. Kenmore her family to attend Temple Beth Tzedek, native, Dr. Robert Ablove warmly recalls being their youngest daughter, Sara, is a regular a young congregant when Rabbi Isaac Klein, z”l, in leading the congregation in “Ashrei” a towering figure in 20th century Conservative prayer before the Mussaf service. Judaism, was the spiritual leader of Temple Both Drs. Ablove enjoy the medical Shaarey Zedek. Dr. Ablove’s late father, Samuel students and residents at UB. They I. Ablove, a decorated World War II veteran who actively work to enhance outcomes fought in the Battle of the Bulge and liberated for their patients as well as advancing concentration camps, was president of the Dr. Robert and Dr. Tova Ablove medical research and education for the congregation. Both Samuel and his wife Helen next generation of practitioners. were active at Kadimah Academy. at the University at Buffalo’s Hello, Wisconsin As the keynote speaker at the Medical Growing up, Bob experienced firsthand medical school, Tova earned her Medical research opportunities then School’s 2017 White Coat ceremony, Dr. the power of Jewish education as a student undergraduate degree in Physics at drew them to Madison, Wisconsin, where Robert Ablove addressed 180 incoming at Kadimah Academy and as a camper at Buffalo State College. Initially, she they lived for a decade. Bob was Chief of students, the largest class in the Ramah Canada. After graduating from the was drawn to scientific research, but hand surgery at the School of Medicine institution’s 173-year history, and used the Hebrew High program, he led the bar and bat fate had other plans. While there, and Public Health at the University of opportunity to highlight the responsibility mitzvah program at Temple Beth Am. As an her passion for women’s health and Wisconsin-Madison and Tova was an of being a doctor. undergraduate at the University of Michigan, women’s rights led her to attend associate professor of obstetrics and “The patient-physician bond is the he was active in Hillel, studied abroad at the medical school at UB, where she gynecology. While in Madison, inspired most amazing thing about practicing Hebrew University of Jerusalem and served as embraced uro-gynecology as by a conversation with late legendary medicine. Patients will place an incredible Jewish Buffalonian Leonard S. Kaminker, amount of trust in you. Recognize this. It’s the Abloves founded the Madison Jewish never routine for your patients. You can be Drs. Robert H. and Tova S. Ablove are paving the way Community Day School. “He asked me, doing something for the 1,000th time, but for a more educated, caring, and engaged community. ‘Bobby, are there enough kids and a place it’s the first time for that patient,” he said. to locate the school?’ I said ‘Yes’ and he The students appreciate the Ablove’s said, ‘Then do it. If you don’t start it, it dedication. In 2018, Tova received the a delegate to the World Conference on Soviet a specialist in the area of female won’t happen.’” he recalled. Anna Ablove, Chief Residents’ Award for Excellence in Jewry. Following graduation, he harnessed his pelvic medicine and reconstructive their oldest daughter, was a member of its Academic and Clinical Teaching from the love of sports into orthopedics with a specialty surgery. While studying at UB, she inaugural graduating class. Their younger Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. in hand and upper extremity surgery following would occasionally attend services daughters, Jane and Sara, also attended While Bob is proud of serving as a medical school at the State University of New at Temple Shaaray Zedek and knew the school before the family moved back medical consultant to the Buffalo Bills, York Health Science Center at Syracuse College her future husband’s parents from to Buffalo and they enrolled the girls in Sabres and UB Bulls teams, he believes of Medicine, and earning an anatomical those visits. Kadimah Academy. his greatest accomplishment has been sciences master’s degree from SUNY at Buffalo bringing UB’s orthopedic services to the School of Medicine and Biological Sciences. A Capital Couple A New Era in the Nickel City local VA system. He is proud to honor his The Abloves met in Buffalo and The passing of Bob’s father marked a father’s legacy of service by delivering a A Scion of a Medical Family moved to Albany where they were turning point for the Abloves. Returning greater level of patient care to veterans. A native of the Bronx, N.Y., Dr. Tova Ablove wed in 1998. During their six years to Buffalo for the funeral, he was touched attended an all-girls Orthodox school in her together in the Empire State’s capital, by how Rabbi Perry Netter’s eulogy showed Championing Jewish Education youth, although her family was more secular. they were active in the Albany Jewish how he had really connected to his father. Drs. Robert and Tova Ablove are The child of a Holocaust survivor who lost Federation’s Maimonides Society “He had driven my father around, seeing passionate about educating the next family members, she grew up with a strong for those practicing medicine, the old East Side neighborhood. My father generation of Jewish Buffalo and beyond. Jewish identity. Many members of her family Federation’s young professionals was a reserved man, he didn’t talk much Bob is on the board of directors of were either doctors or teachers, people who wing and the Bureau of Jewish about his service during the War, but Camp Ramah in Canada and is active championed education, knowledge and care. Education. They also attended local [Rabbi Netter] really captured the essence in strengthening American enrollment in Seeking a change of pace and wanting to Conservative shuls and a Chavurah of the man,” Dr. Ablove recalls. Ramah Canada, the camp serving Jewish be near her cousin who was then a resident (lay-led prayer group). One night while browsing online, Bob communities across the Great Lakes region, 12 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS including Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Cleveland, Detroit and Pittsburgh, as well Ella Rae Greene: More than Kid Stuff! as the children of Ramah Canada alumni from across the United States. He has By Peter Simon children called The Magic of the also served on Buffalo Jewish Federation The whimsical story about the Castle: Find Your Own Fairy Tale. initiatives with current President Leslie world’s fastest raindrop started Seth dedicates the book “to Ella Shuman Kramer. taking shape in Ella Rae Greene’s for inspiring it, my father for Tova serves on the board of Kadimah imagination when she was in taking us to Disney World where it Academy, where she works closely with kindergarten. Now, the story is happened, and my wife for making President Jonathan D. Epstein and fellow in book form, and Ella, a fourth- our magical fairy tale possible.” Seth directors to transition the school, now in grader at Williamsville’s Maple West Greene is a nationally recognized its 60th year, into a new era of excellence Elementary School, is thrilled to be direct response marketing expert, in Jewish and secular education. She also an author. “Some people dream about and the author of five best-selling co-chairs a Buffalo Jewish Federation having a book,” said the daughter of marketing books, including his Task Force assessing the overall state Rebecca and Seth Greene, the sister latest book, Market Domination for and possibilities for Jewish education in of Max and Lillie, and a religious Podcasting. Seth is the founder of the region. The Abloves believe a viable school student at Congregation Shir a direct response marketing firm day school is a critical part of communal Shalom. “To me it’s a reality.” www.MarketDominationLLC.com. infrastructure, especially for attracting The book, which is professionally and retaining more observant and illustrated, tells the story of a courageous religiously committed families to Buffalo. and resourceful raindrop that has a series From Jewish day school and summer of adventures in New York City before camp to medical school and patient care, heading west and forming the Pacific Drs. Robert H. and Tova S. Ablove are Ocean at Hawaii. Ella, who recently paving the way for a more educated, starred as “Annie” in an Academy of caring, and engaged community. Theatre Arts production of “Annie”, is Ezra N. Rich is Marketing Communica- now working on a second book. tions Manager at Uniland Development Not to be outdone, Seth Greene Company. authored a longer “chapter book” for
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 13 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS Amélida & Madi Weinmann: L’Dor V’Dor- From Generation to Generation By Ellen Goldstein
If community leadership and responsibility is learned at home, then the Weinmann women are a noteworthy example of at least two generations of a family shaped by community service, and in turn, helping to shape their communities. Amelida, through Temple Beth Zion, Buffalo Jewish Federation, the Erie County Democratic party, and the Hispanic Women’s League, and Madi through Temple Beth Zion and its local youth group, regional and national North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY NEL) groups. They are not the only Weinmanns involved in Tikkun Olam, but attorney Peter Allen Weinmann – husband to Amelida and father to Madi– plus the two boys–Aaron and Benjamin– are a story for another issue of the Jewish Journal. Lillian the youngest is also plugging in her mitzvot time through TBZ religious school, a Bat Mitzvah project, Nichols School, and Darlene Ceglia’s Dance Project.
Amélida Weinmann Amélida & Madi Weinmann Amélida Ortiz Weinmann was born in Buffalo to a Hispanic Catholic family, moved I am both paying back and “ I believe that everybody wants the same thing… to Long Island for junior high and high paying forward at the same time school, then made her way back to Buffalo now.” She helps raise money for to get an education, earn a profession to be able to after attending SUNY Binghamton. She college scholarships and supports provide what their families need and want, and to give comes from a politically active family, and programming for Hispanic women. is a 3rd generation Democratic committee She met her husband, Peter, through back, and make the world better, to leave a legacy.” person. Amelida looks up to her late her work at Hispanics United of grandmother, who in the 1960s, was involved Buffalo during the Erie County in Democratic Party politics, the Hispanic Coalition for Family Violence the Temple Beth Zion board. She loves impossible for me to name them all for community, and religious leadership. For her luncheon committee when he was that her daughter, Madi, was on the fear of missing someone.” service, Amélida’s grandmother is featured an assistant Erie County District board with her last year while youth She “shul hopped,” first starting on 2 obelisks honoring Hispanic community Attorney. They were introduced by group president. Amélida said, “Peter at Temple Israel in Binghamton, the leaders on Niagara Street. “I hope to have the now Hon. Lisa Bloch Rodwin, and I look forward to more ‘parent-child’ former Temple Beth El (now a part of followed in her footsteps,” Amélida said, Hallie Weissfeld Brownstein, and community opportunities with all our Temple Beth Tzedek), then switched to explaining that she worked for the US Census Barb O’Neil. children. L’Dor V’Dor. Temple Beth Zion when she married in 2000, and served on the Erie Harbor Amélida also served on the Amélida was Temple Beth Zion’s Peter. They keep a kosher home, and Development Corporation Architectural Architectural Design review Kol Nidre Fund co-chair for the past she points to the past, noting that Design Review committee, and more. committee for Canalside, has two years with Peter, on Federation’s Peter’s grandfather, Siegfried Capell, She is also involved in the Hispanic served as Sargent-at-Arms of the Overseas Allocation Task Force, and is was a kosher butcher. She also credits community, serves on the Hispanic Women’s Erie County Democratic Party for also Federation’s Super Sunday co-chair her mother-in-law, Margit Weinmann, League board, co-chaired empowerment, 10 years, worked for many political this year, with Neil Block. for helping her understand “the whole and co-chairs the fundraising committee, candidates, and ran the only Jewish Amélida did a lot of soul searching on mishpucha (family)”. Amélida became collaborating with the Hispanic Heritage Girl Scout Troop at Kadimah her journey to Judaism, because she says more involved with TBZ, Buffalo Jewish Council, Hispanics United of Buffalo, and School. In her spare time, she has she felt drawn to Judaism as it best fit Federation, and AJC because of Peter. other community organizations. “Before been and is an active parent at her relationship with G-d. “It’s ‘Beshert’ (destined) that G-d put our college, I received a scholarship for college her four children’s schools–TBZ’s “There were and are so many people in Neshamas (souls) together!” from a Hispanic organization called Adelante PALS, Kadimah School, Elmwood the Jewish community who have guided “Judaism gives my life meaning with (Forward) in Long Island, so through my work Franklin School, Nichols, and City me by their own mitzvot in our Jewish Hashem through mitzvot,” she said in in the Hispanic and Jewish communities, Honors. And she also serves on and general communities, it would be talking about why she became a Jew and 14 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS why she is so involved in the Buffalo “Some kids... liked socializing and relaxing, plus leadership about important issues was the spark Jewish Community. “My belief in Hashem programing.” She also explains, “I’m now that ignited my love for the Jewish and through mitzvot helps shape life NFTY and got involved in charge of a network of the presidents community,” she said. “Some kids hated lessons as well as my parenting skills. in this amazing Jewish of all the youth groups in my region, religious school, but liked NFTY and Knowing who you are and seeking to which I love. I guide them on topics got involved in this amazing Jewish find a place to be you—that’s why I organization in high such as working with adults and a board, organization in high school. And that’s became a Jew.” school. And that’s how it how to run an efficient board meeting, how it begins… social activities move Amélida went to Israel first in 1997, and general tips on how to grow into a to social action, which lead to learning, on a Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Baha’i begins… social activities successful leader. I hold monthly phone leadership, and love for the Jewish tour, then again 20 years later with move to social action, calls with my President’s network, and community.” JFNA’s National Women’s Philanthropy, I also lead the weekly calls with my With Amélida and Madi Weinmann, Heart to Heart Mission along with a P2G which lead to learning, NFTY-NEL regional board,” she said. “I it is difficult to decide who learns pre mission in 2017, and became a Lion leadership, and love for love being able to get behind the scenes, more from whom. But as a community, of Judah when she returned. creating the events and the schedule, Buffalo is lucky that both women have Community service–Tikkun Olam–is the Jewish community.” and helping NFTY continue to grow. chosen to share their time, skills, heart critical to Amélida’s concept of Jewish We are a movement, so we’re always and energy with Jewish Buffalo. Please community. Having been active in all moving.” Madi said that she also learned don’t hesitate to ask them how else to the Jewish ‘denominations’, Amelida and being active in local and regional to advocate on Capitol Hill with Hebrew become involved. Amélida said, “When feels making a stand in the Jewish youth group. “I love being a part of the High, and went to Israel with Camp it comes to doing mitzvot in your life, community regarding community Jewish community. It has always been Seneca Lake in the summer of 2017. you don’t learn to run until you learn service is important to her family. “My a part of my life, especially when I first “Now I have NFTY friends from all to be guided, to rollover, crawl, walk, grandmother, father, mother and some went to City Honors, where there were over the country, camp friends from then run! We are all at different stages. I of my aunts were active in the Hispanic not a lot of Jewish kids. At that time, different regions, and a great network hope to eventually run, like some of our community, and they taught us to pay I made Jewish friends through youth for the future. But,” she added, “starting community leaders and help pave the it forward,” she said. “Some people can group—both older and younger. Then, local is nice, and I am so proud of way for others to start their way at their give more of their time and money at another friend encouraged me to attend what we have done in Buffalo. Getting own speed!” different times. I can do that now. I feel a regional event at the URJ Camp George involved through TBaZY events, TBZ Ellen Goldstein is editor of the Jewish strongly about giving back. I believe in Ontario. That was the first NFTY Shabbat services, local volunteer Journal. that everybody wants the same thing… event I attended, and have been involved work, and advocating to legislators to get an education, learn a profession ever since.” to be able to provide what their families Through NFTY, Madi met teens from need and want, and to give back, and Toronto, Cleveland and all over the make the world better, to leave a legacy. region, as well as Buffalo. At the end of That’s what Peter and I try to teach our her sophomore year, she ran for TBaZY children.” president, won, and served in that office for her junior year. At the time, she was Madi Weinmann also a member of the NFTY-NEL regional Madeleine (Madi) Weinmann is a 17 cabinet. She enjoyed that position year old senior at City Honors—a first- so much, she ran for the NFTY NEL born child of two first-born children, and presidency at the end of her junior year, she is a striver. She has grown up as a and her presidency makes her family, as member of Temple Beth Zion, and is the well as Buffalo, proud. Regional President of NFTY-NEL–The But she isn’t the only Buffalonian Reform Movement’s North American involved regionally or nationally in Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY)- the Reform Jewish Youth leadership. North East Lakes (NEL) region. Last Williamsville North graduate, Nobie year –her junior year–she was President Fried, is Communications Vice of TBaZY—the TBZ youth group. Now President, on the national NFTY North she has applied to colleges to study American board. Her sister, Lexie Fried, to become an engineer. And she also was NFTY-NEL Regional President expects herself to be active in the Jewish and TBaZY President before Madi, and community in college–Chabad or Hillel Andrew Oesterreicher and his sister, or as part of a local synagogue. Jacqueline, served on the regional and Madi really enjoyed the youth group North American boards, as well. experience from TBaZY to NFTY. “I And while Madi explained that she no started going to TBaZY events when longer serves on the TBaZY board, there SERVICE I was in middle school,” she said. Her is a lot going on with the TBZ youth SERVICE BUILT ON INDEPENDENCE & TRUST Jewish education is broad—starting group, including Buffalo as host for the Securities and advisory services Offered Through FSC Securities CorporationBUILT A ONRegistered Broker/Dealer with TBZ religious school and attending next NFTY-NEL regional Spring Boards Member FINRA/SPIC and a registered investment advisor. Additional advisory services offered through Kadimah School for five years, going to Kallah in early March. Mollot & Hardy, Inc. A registered investment advisor not affiliatedINDEPENDENCE with FSC Securities Corporation. Shabbat services with her family, being a “I have been able to make Jewish member of the TBZ junior choir through friends from all over, who are just as 646 N. French Road Suite #9, Amherst,& TRUST NY 14228-2125 Cantor Penny Myers, becoming a Bat passionate about leadership and Judaism 716.691.7121 • www.mollot.com Mitzvah, attending Camp Seneca Lake, as I am. We bond over fun activities, Securities and advisory services Offered Through FSC Securities Corporation A Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SPIC and a registered investment advisor. Additional advisory services offered through Mollot & Hardy, Inc. A registered investmentFebruary advisor 2019 not |affiliated www.buffalojewishfederation.org with FSC Securities Corporation. 15 646 N. French Road Suite #9, Amherst, NY 14228-2125 716.691.7121 • www.mollot.com JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS Three Paths to the Buffalo Philharmonic Cello Section By Gail Bauser
When you look up onto the stage at a Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) concert, what do you see? Men and women of all ages and backgrounds? Do you admire the millions of dollars worth of valuable musical instruments? Do you take in the splendor of Kleinhans Music Hall? Or do you simply close your eyes and allow yourself to be carried away by the beautiful music you are hearing? The next time you attend a concert, take a glance at the cello section. Within that part of the BPO are three players who are members of our Jewish community, and have traveled very different paths on their way to Buffalo. One family came to the US in the 1600s; another sought refuge in the US as Nazi Germany was threatening the European Jewish Community, and yet another ran from Russia during Gorbachev’s period of Glaznost. Meet Monte Hoffman, Robbie Hausmann, and Roman Mekinulov.
Monte Hoffman as the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue. Monte’s Monte Hoffman has been a cellist father was a prominent lawyer and a judge. His mother with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra founded the Ventnor Music Festival Orchestra. Their for 55 years. On January 19th, Monte support for and connection with the performing arts completed a long and successful career community played a significant role in Monte’s interest with the BPO with a final performance in music. at the Led Zeppelin Pops Concert. He When asked how he came to play the cello, Monte chuckles over his choice for this final leans back, smiles, and reminisces about his childhood Roman Mekinulov, Monte Hoffman and Robbie Hausmann concert. Monte was always easy to days when his parents would host friends and famous recognize from the audience, sitting tall musicians as guests in their New Jersey home. Among considers Leonard Rose Now, after 55 years in the orchestra, and stately in the cello section, the stage the numerous well-known ensembles and soloists that to be his greatest mentor Monte boasts having a long line of lights reflecting brightly off his full head would regularly stay as guests in his parents’ home was and inspiration. “He was famous musicians and conductors as of white hair. the Curtis String Quartet. Monte becomes animated as the greatest cellist of close friends. His easy demeanor and Monte’s family has a long history in the he recounts hearing the quartet performing in his living them all.” friendly, open manner make it easy to New York and New Jersey communities. room when he was just a young boy. “I planted myself Monte is proud of understand why. If you spend a few His mother is of Sephardic decent, her on the floor in front of the cello when they played!” And the 4 years he enjoyed moments speaking with Monte, he might ancestors coming to the United States thus was born the soul of a future cellist. When he was 6 as a cellist with the entertain you with a funny story or two from Spain in 1695. His father’s family years old, Monte told his parents he wanted to play the Casals Festival Orchestra about Mitch Miller, the late BPO Pops emmigrated from Russia in 1905. His cello, but they thought he was too immature and not during the 1980s, and conductor in the early 1990s, who used great grandfather’s great-grandfather ready. They finally allowed him to begin cello lessons also a State Department- to stay with Monte at his home in Buffalo was the first American-born rabbi, and at the age of 9. sponsored tour with the when in town. was one of the 12 clergymen in attendance The journey from 9 year-old cello student to Buffalo Eastman Philharmonia in Besides making a career for himself at George Washington’s inauguration in Philharmonic cellist includes a long list of prestigious 1961, which traveled over as a professional cellist, he has built New York. A source of pride in Monte’s names and schools. His cello teachers included Leo 30,000 miles to give 50 a successful life outside of music as family is the fact that his ancestors were Sachs, Orlando Cole, Lon Monroe, Misha Schneider, concerts in 16 countries an investor and property owner. He founders of the first synagogue in the US, and Leonard Rose. He graduated with a performance during John F. Kennedy’s loves Buffalo and is grateful for the Congregation Shearith Israel, also known degree in cello from the Eastman School of Music and presidency. opportunities the city and the orchestra have afforded him. He has played over 6,000 concerts and has served on all the boards, as a member of the finance committee, and on numerous negotiating committees all at the BPO. His legacy in the orchestra is long. “I feel being in the Quaint, one-bedroom apartments on lovely grounds- Buffalo Philharmonic was a privilege.” • Heat, hot water & cable included in rent His presence on stage will be missed. • Elevator • Handicapped accessible & adaptable Robbie Hausmann • Enhanced security Robbie Hausmann made news last Amherst Glen • Amherst Towne • Amherst Ridge spring when the Buffalo Philharmonic took its first European Tour in over 30 years. The orchestra traveled to Poland 716-639-3311 x3326 to perform in 4 cities there, to much We inbergCampus.org acclaim. But the trip to Poland had a 465, 475 and 467 John James Audubon Pkwy | Amherst, NY 14228 much deeper personal meaning to him, and became a pilgrimage to the place 16 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS his great-grandmother and many other position. Robbie decided to take the when he was six years old for a spot had many stories to share, among which relatives were murdered by the Nazis. audition and won a position with the at the Leningrad Music School for the was Roman’s being denied a place in the While in Poland with the orchestra, Orchestra in 1982, where he has been Gifted. “After the audition, my mother Leningrad Music School for the Gifted at Robbie took a side trip to Auschwitz ever since. overheard one of the judges whisper to the age of 6. to honor the memory of his great- Robbie is grateful for the many another judge, ‘This kid is pretty good, Asylum was eventually granted to the grandmother and the millions of others opportunities he has had as a member but we’ve already taken a Jew.’ And I was Mekinulovs and they settled in Brooklyn who died in the concentration camps of of the Buffalo Philharmonic and of the denied a spot in the school.” in December 1989. Roman remembers Nazi Germany. Armed with his cello and Buffalo community. He was featured as a Roman’s parents made sure he how little they brought with them. “I an old cherished photograph of his mother soloist with the orchestra several times, received a strong music education came to the United States with a suitcase sitting on his great-grandmother’s lap performing the Lalo Concerto, Haydn despite the discriminatory environment and a cello.” Three months after their in Poland, Robbie entered the grounds Concerto in C Major, Popper’s Hungarian towards Jews. After his academic studies arrival in the US, Roman auditioned for of Auschwitz and performed Ravel’s Rhapsody, as well as Bruch’s haunting during the day, Roman took classes at a Julliard and was awarded a “full ride.” Kaddish Prayer in one of the camp’s Kol Nidre. specialized music school in Leningrad, For the first time in their lives, Roman shower rooms. The experience was a It was at Congregation Havurah where where he spent his afternoons studying and his family felt free to openly be Jews. very solemn and moving one for him. Robbie truly began to find his Jewish music theory, taking lessons, and playing Once settled in New York, the family In an interview with WNED about his voice. Havurah hired him “to play Kol in ensembles. His hard work paid off and immediately associated with the temple experience there, Robbie said, “In a Nidre and 3 or 4 other pieces” for their at the age of 12, he won the Young Artist nearby on Benson Ave. The freedom way, I feel lucky that there are survivors service on Yom Kippur. His search for Competition of Leningrad. Roman now enjoyed was enormous. “In from this family, because there are so appropriate cello solo music led to what Roman began cello studies with master Russia, we were not allowed to practice many families in which everyone was has become an ongoing exploration for Georgy Ginovker at the Rimsky-Korsakov our religion or to learn Jewish music. I wiped out. No descendants. Nobody to repertoire with Jewish themes. “I have College when he was 16. His parents played my first Kol Nidre in the Brooklyn remember them. And I think we all want compiled a treasure trove of music with dreamed of leaving Russia, and the fact temple that year.” to be remembered, so, I feel grateful Jewish themes from Russia and Poland, that he would be drafted into the army by Roman studied cello at Julliard for that I am able to remember my family coming from a similar time period as the the age of 18 made it much more urgent. 6 years, where he met his future wife, members, my great-grandmother.” heyday of the Yiddish Theater.” About 8 Fortunately, by 1989, President Ronald Sebnem, a lyric soprano. In 1992, he Robbie researched and accumulated a won the Young Artists International rare and vast library of solo cello music Auditions Cello Award and presented based on Hebrew themes and prayers Within the cello section of the BPO are three players his New York Debut Recital in Carnegie long before visiting Poland. Although his Hall’s Weill Recital Hall the following early life was more of a secular one, the who are members of our Jewish community, and have year. cello helped him to find his Jewish voice. traveled very different paths on their way to Buffalo. In 1998, Roman was awarded the In 1938, Robbie’s grandparents principal cello position in the Orquestra escaped from Germany and came to the Sinfonica do Estado de Sao Paulo, and United States “just in the nick of time.” years ago, after accumulating a sizeable Reagan and President Mikhail Gorbachev he and Sebnem moved to Brazil. Their Both families settled in New York City, library of cello solos, Robbie presented had signed an agreement that the Soviet daughter, Talia, was born there. The and his parents first met while students a recital at the JCC for cello and piano Union would allow 200,000 Jews to leave orchestra paid well and Roman had many at NYU. His mother, Britta Hausmann, entitled “Son of a Cantor Man”, the title the country. The Mekinulovs decided to wonderful opportunities, but still, the received a degree in Social Work and was of which was a clever play on the title apply. city didn’t feel like the right fit for them. an “avid amateur violinist.” His father, “Son of a Preacher Man”. In order to receive permission to With their second child on the way, Ernest Hausmann, earned a degree Robbie continues to research Hebrew leave the Soviet Union, Jews had to first Roman started auditioning again and from Harvard Dental School and was melodies for cello in a quest to expand recuse their Russian citizenship. The won his position as principal cellist with continuing his studies at the University his reperetoire. “This particular music idea of being citizens of no country was the Buffalo Philharmonic in 2001. of Rochester when Robbie was born. speaks to me. The music makes me want frightening but required. Roman’s father Roman’s family is grateful for the The family moved to Eggertsville, when to play.” And he has a message for anyone then had to pay the Soviet government freedoms they now enjoy. “My mother his father was awarded a position at the learning to play a musical instrument… the equivalent of 3 year’s salary for each has completed a full circle, so to speak, University of Buffalo Dental School as a “Find music that speaks to you!” passport. “My father shelled out lots through her job with the United Jewish Professor of Oral Biology. of money,” he said. The Mekinulovs Appeal in New York City working on Robbie started private cello lessons Roman Mekinulov then waited nervously while the Soviet research and fundraising efforts to bring in 2nd grade, studying with several BPO Principal Cellist Roman government did background checks to Jews to the US,” he said. “It is her way of influential BPO cellists, among them Bill Mekinulov emigrated from the Soviet make sure nobody in the family held any fulfilling the Jewish tradition of Tikkun Fahlbush and Robert Carapetyan. His Union to the United States in 1989. It was secrets that would cause the government Olam, or “repairing the world.” next teacher, Paul Katz of the celebrated not an easy road. His continued presence to deny their visas. After some time, “I consider myself very lucky,” Roman Cleveland Quartet, has remained a life- on stage with the Buffalo Philharmonic they were granted permission to leave said. “We all like it here. We thought long mentor. “Paul Katz had a very represents a happy ending to his parents’ for Israel. The Mekinulovs sold all their it would be an amazing place to raise encouraging and positive approach. quest to raise their children in a land free belongings and secured flights. children, and we were right. And I love He explained technical ideas in a way of oppression. “We left on the pretense to go to the orchestra.” He is proud to be able to that resonated with me.” After studying Roman is a native of Leningrad (now Israel. But once we reached the Vienna openly enjoy his Jewish heritage. “I am with Harvey Shapiro at Julliard for a St. Petersburg). His parents are both airport, we had to decide on whether to very proud to say I am a Jew, something I year, Robbie returned to Paul Katz and pianists with PhDs from the prestigious go to Israel or to apply for asylum in US.” couldn’t openly say until I came to USA.” received a cello performance degree at Leningrad Conservatory and were The family chose the United States, and Gail Bauser, a professional cellist, Eastman. graduate students there when Roman traveled to Rome to wait for word from recently retired as strings teacher in the Robbie then returned to Buffalo to was born. Roman began studying cello American authorities. They underwent Kenmore-Tonawanda School District. study Psychology at UB. While there, at an early age. There is tension in his a series of interviews during which they the BPO advertised auditions for a cello voice as he recalls an audition he took had to prove persecution in Russia. They February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 17 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS
manager in the whole company, but Charles Eugene (“Charlie”) Shuman: news that his father took ill and needed surgery derailed those plans. Charlie returned to Buffalo to be with his family. Community Builder Amid challenge, sometimes fortune smiles on you. So it was with Charlie. By Howard Rosenhoch Zionist organization. While still in high school, he bought a Penny Shuman, Charlie’s single 25 cent raffle ticket from Holy Who can forget that iconic scene wife to whom he’s been Angels Church. Charlie won the first in The Graduate when recent college married 54 years, described prize, a 1946 Ford convertible. When graduate Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Chaika as “a giver, a very Charlie returned to Buffalo from Hoffman) is taken aside by Mr. McGuire, charitable woman involved Chicago, he was able to use the money one of his father’s friends, and given just in many mitzvahs.” (Penny from the sale of that car, along with one word of advice to insure his future: is profiled in the January savings from his work in Chicago, to “Plastics.” Perhaps Charlie Shuman, like 2019 Jewish Journal, pages buy a third interest in the family scrap Dustin Hoffman, was on the receiving 12-13.) business, which came to be known as end of that same advice. Unlike Dustin Charlie’s early years Philip Shuman and Sons. Hoffman, however, Charlie took that included public school on Shortly after serving two years in advice, and made of his life and the Buffalo’s East Side and the US Army, Charlie and his brother internationally significant Shuman Talmud Torah on Hickory Hy bought their father’s interest in the Plastics, Inc. the success, and the Street, from which, scrap business. It was right around this Difference Maker in the Buffalo and Charlie says, “I didn’t time that Charlie and Hy turned a chance greater Jewish communities, that we learn very much!” It was meeting with a stranger at Ontario, celebrate today. later in life that Charlie Canada’s vacation community Crystal Charles Eugene Shuman was born turned his early emotional Beach into a business opportunity. A October 19, 1929 to Philip (Hebrew name connection to Judaism into fellow driving a truck asking directions “Peretz”) and Ida (“Chaika”) Shuman. an intellectual searching. happened on Charlie and Hy. The Charlie speaks lovingly, yet wistfully, After high school at Seneca stranger was carrying a load of scrap of his parents’ early years, which were Vocational and Fosdick plastic. This prompted Hy, who Charlie hard. Both were from Sokolivka, which Masten, Charlie sold refers to as “the smart one,” to suggest had a Jewish community, many of the shoes at Burt’s Shoe Store they talk to their friend, Cecil Green, a survivors of which (and their progeny) downtown on Main Street. pioneer in the plastic scrap business in are now part of Jewish Buffalo. Peretz Charles Shuman Edison Bros, the company Toronto. One thing led to another, and first came to the US at age 17, avoiding that owned Burt’s and other Shuman Plastics, now an international the Russo-Japanese war. He returned to He recalls his father as a hard worker, who peddled shoe stores nationwide, producer and seller of specialty recycled Europe and, at age 22, married Chaika scrap paper, iron and other metals from a horse sent young Charlie to plastics and plastic extrusion machinery who was three years his junior. Chaika and wagon. When Charlie’s older brother, Hy, was Chicago where there cleaners, was born. lost 4 brothers and her father in the discharged from the army, Hy and their father rented was more opportunity In 1963, Charlie was introduced to pogroms. With their young daughter a junk shop and then bought a place on Goethe for advancement. A Penny Kanel by a mutual relative. A Fanny (later known as Faye), Charlie’s Street as the fledgling scrap business grew. Charlie promotion was soon year later, on May 31, 1964, Charlie and late older sister, Peretz and Chaika describes his mother as an unusual woman, who “had offered in the form of an Penny married. As they raised their escaped Sokolivka to Rumania. In 1922 a need, like Elie Wiesel, to tell stories”. She started a assistant manager position three sons, Kenneth, Robert and Daniel, they emigrated to the US, settling in library in Sokolivka and wrote Yiddish poetry about in a new store Edison was Charlie and Penny started going to Shul Buffalo where Charlie was born to them the pogroms that his sister translated into English. establishing in Chicago. every Shabbat, and their involvement in seven years later. Peretz served on the board of the local Chevra Kadisha, Charlie would have been Jewish philanthropy and service grew Charlie grew up on Buffalo’s East Side. and Chaika belonged to Pioneer Women, a national the youngest assistant to the point that now they are one of
18 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS the pillars and power couples of Jewish Buffalo. “Rocking March” with Rak Shalom Charlie’s passion is Jewish education, especially day school education. He was Rak Shalom – the outstanding an early supporter of Kadimah Academy. A Capella group from University Partnering with Arthur and Susan of Maryland - will be coming Gellman, Charlie and Penny were the to Buffalo Friday, March 15 philanthropic catalyst to create the Ohr and Saturday, March 16. The Temimim School located on Audubon 10-piece ensemble will join Parkway. Charlie is fond of telling the Kehilat Ohr Zion Friday night story of his involvement in Chabad of in Kabbalat Shabbat services at Buffalo. He read an article in the Buffalo 5:50 pm and will lead zemirot Jewish Review announcing that Rav (songs) after a congregational Schneerson, then leader of the Chabad dinner. On Saturday morning, Lubavitch movement, was sending a the group will participate in shaliach to Buffalo. Charlie knew that, as Shabbat morning services at he puts it, “they were never going to raise Temple Beth Tzedek beginning money with that article, and I wanted at 9 am and will perform and lead to help.” He met the next morning with zemirot at the Kiddush luncheon. Arnold Weiss z”l, the late publisher The group will be featured of the Jewish Review at the time, and, Saturday evening as part of the collaborating with Arnold, helped create Stained Glass Cultural Arts Series what is now a vibrant Chabad community at Temple Beth Zion at 7:30 pm. in Buffalo. They will conclude their time in Charlie has served on innumerable Buffalo the next morning in a All programs are open to the public though tickets are boards and committees, including the performance for Sunday School required for the Stained Glass Series. For more information on Jewish Community Center, Buffalo Jewish students at Congregation Shir Federation, Bureau of Jewish Education, Shalom. how to obtain tickets, call 716.836.6565 Montefiore Club, Ahavas Achim Lubavitch Synagogue, Temple Shaarey Tzedek, Chabad House, Jewish Discovery Center, Kehilat Shalom, the Westwood Country Club and others. He served as telephone chair of the Young Men’s Division of UJF and was a UJF solicitor for many years. Charlie and Penny have a thirst for lifelong learning, enrolling in many adult education classes. They have traveled to Israel many times, visiting family members who live there. Charlie is now retired from actively running Shuman Plastics. Two of Charlie and Penny’s sons, Ken and Danny, run the company as President and Executive Vice President, respectively. Danny, an ordained rabbi, led the congregation at Jewish Federation Apartments’ Himmel Chapel for many years, where Charlie enjoyed functioning much like a cantor. Ken has served on the board and executive committee of Buffalo Jewish Federation, was President of Kadimah Academy and currently serves on the board of the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies. Robert is a successful lawyer living out of town. Jewish Buffalo is thankful for Charlie, because Charlie has made a difference in Jewish Buffalo. Howard Rosenhoch, a retired attorney, served as President of the Buffalo Jewish Federation from 2014- 2016.
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 19 JEWISH BUFFALO’S DIFFERENCE MAKERS The Rosenhochs: Destined To Be Difference-Makers By Maria Scrivani in the wider community. Valerie was a Last fall cancer ended Valerie founding member of the Developmental Rosenhoch’s life on earth, but not her Disabilities Alliance of WNY (DDAWNY) style of living. Family Committee. She and David testified Community development, disability before legislators at statewide hearings on advocacy, and support of Jewish education disability issues pertaining to housing. were all part of the late health care “She got that cancer,” David said in a executive’s repertoire through nearly recent interview. “It was tough on her. seven decades. For her family— spouse She was a good mother to me. I am still Howard and their sons Alan and David— missing her, and I have my eyes on her, the saving grace transcending their too.” great grief is a commitment to continue As do they all. Howard, a retired attorney Valerie’s work. who is a volunteer extraordinaire, when It is, in fact, the way the Rosenhoch asked of what he is most proud, pointed to boys were raised. his two sons and said, “You’re looking at “So much of what she did was ‘em.” The former president of The Buffalo community work for causes about which Jewish Federation recently signed on as she was passionate, both within the Jewish chair of the Federation’s 2020 and 2021 community and outside,” says Alan, 34, Campaigns for Jewish Buffalo. He is an director of business development for alumnus of the Buffalo-Israel Experience, Invest Buffalo Niagara, and immediate past Valerie (z”l), Howard, Alan and David Rosenbach having made his most recent sojourn to president of the board at his alma mater, that country not long after his wife’s death, Kadimah Academy and a board member for the city and region I love,” says the “So much of what she did in what was a restorative endeavor, and is and an on-ice instructor for SABAH. “She graduate of University of Toronto who a long-time board member and treasurer encouraged me to do what I am passionate also holds an MBA from the University at was community work of the Erie County Bar Association’s about, building the regional economy Buffalo. He and his wife, Gabrielle (Gabby) for causes about which Volunteer Lawyers Project. This winter, Howard and David will she was passionate, travel to Washington D.C. for Jewish both within the Jewish Disability Advocacy Day at the end of New Twinning Program Brings Teacher to Israel this month, on a Federation-sponsored community and outside.” mission to lobby legislators. In December, Naomi Wiseman, one of the two Buffalo teachers overseeing a unique “Before Valerie died, when she was in ‘school twinning’ program with 5th & 6th graders (COOLanu), had the opportunity to spend 5 days with an Educator’s Delegation in Israel through Buffalo’s Partnership with the Western Hospice, we talked about legacy,” says Galilee. Through this experience Naomi was able to visit our partner school, G’vanim, and meet Balderman, also a Kadimah alum and Howard. “She asked that memorials be with the 5th and 6th grade students, their English teacher and the principal of the school. She now a dentist at Buffalo’s Neighborhood made to two near-and-dear organizations: had a tour of the school’s garden and classrooms and brought a newspaper with her that the Health Center, live in Kenmore with their Kadimah, with its emphasis on a terrific Buffalo students created. infant daughter Emilia, born days before education and strong Jewish identity, Valerie died. and Aspire, which runs the house where “In a lot of ways we don’t have to David can live independently. Disability wonder what our mother would think advocacy is at the core of what our family about things, or certain subjects, “says believes…Valerie died with great comfort Alan. “She would be very disappointed if and clarity in knowing that we would we didn’t continue the work [she had been carry on.” doing] because she isn’t here.” And so the Rosenhochs are looking David, 28, whose life has been ahead. David hopes to have a relationship underscored by multiple volunteer stints, with a woman one day and get married. including (but not limited to) work at “I’d like to stay happy,” he says. Alan’s Buffalo students with teachers Rob Taylor and Naomi Wiseman Cradle Beach Camp, Spirited Athletes future focus is on his daughter, the apple Bold At Heart (SABAH), and Kadimah of her grandpa’s eye—Howard cares for and Temple Beth Zion Early Childhood her one day a week—a bright light in his Play and Learn School (PALS), has busy calendar. He expects to continue that Down syndrome. He graduated from for some time, and also keep up the family Emerson High School of Hospitality in tradition of community service, “sprinkled 2009 and the Canisius College Young with as much skiing and golfing as I can Adult Life Transitions Program (Y.A.L.T.) fit in!” in 2013. Today he lives with six other Longtime Buffalo Spree contributor developmentally disabled adults in a Maria Scrivani writes about local history group home owned and operated by Aspire and people who make a difference. of WNY. His late mother was widely Naomi with students known for championing and spearheading efforts to assist and include the disabled 20 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 COMMUNITY Buffalo Moms Israel Trip in December
Join other women from Buffalo on a year-long journey with the Jewish “In the Family Tradition” Women’s Renaissance Project (JWRP) that includes 8 Days in Israel December 10-17, 2019. Connect with women from all over the world for a revitalizing year The Mesnekoff name is synonymous with caring of self-exploration, unforgettable experiences in Israel, and inspiring Jewish for our Jewish community for 3 generations. learning. Enjoy empowering Jewish classes led by world-class speakers and Israeli thought-leaders. Explore spiritual Tsfat, dynamic Tel Aviv, Masada’s desert magic, Shabbat in Jerusalem, and many more unique experiences. • Condolence meals & Live streaming Discover how to connect deeper with yourself, your family, and your community. from funeral home now offered Call Jay at (716) 639-8890 Service Beyond Expectation 8630 Transit Road East Amherst, NY 14051 www.mesnekoff.com email: [email protected] • Visit us on Facebook
Jay L. Mesnekoff Director
The JWRP’s MOMentum trip, run in partnership with the Buffalo Jewish Federation, brings mothers who have children at home under the age of 18 to Israel for a week. The Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project (JWRP) was established in 2008 by eight Jewish women who came from all walks of life, affiliation, observance, and age. Together, they started a global movement designed to empower women through Jewish values. Since that time more than 10,000 individuals from 26 different countries have experienced this life-changing journey, returning home with a connection to Jewish values, ties to Israel and the tools to take action in their homes and communities. For more information, please contact: Stacey Block | 716-204-2250 | Stacey@ buffalojewishfederation.org
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 21 COMMUNITY TIKKUN OLAM
Lindy Says: Did you know that not working on the Sabbath may be a religious accommodation?
A Shopping Experience Like No Other Sponsored by Law Office of Lindy Korn, PLLC - www.lkorn-law.com
5 THINGS YOU CAN DO in February to Repair the World
Help Keep Jewish Buffalo secure. 1» Give to the brand new Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund (see page 3), which will enable the Buffalo Jewish Community to be much more proactive in protecting the community and Jewish institutions. Send Barbara L. Oliver your check today to: Secure Jewish Buffalo Fund – c/o Buffalo Jewish Graduate Gemologist - GIA Federation, 2640 North Forest Rd., 14068; call 716-204-2242; or go online at www.buffalojewishfederation.org. 5820 Main Street, Suite 311 | Caldwell Building | Williamsville, NY 14221 P- 716.204.1297 | F- 716.204.2260 Help the Food Bank! [email protected] 2» Attend Sweet Charity Thursday, February 7 from 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm “A Trusted Jeweler is Worth Her Weight in Gold.” at the Buffalo Grand Hotel (formerly Adam’s Mark). Sweet Charity features hors-d’oeuvres, dessert items, wines, beer, liquor tastings and coffee provided by some of WNY’s finest establishments. Guests will also enjoy live and silent auctions, a prize wheel, basket and cash raffles and more! All proceeds will benefit the Food Bank of WNY. Tickets are $75 per person. Go to www.foodbankwny.org/ sweetcharity/ or call 716-852-1305. 3» Aspire’s Winterval, February 7, 5:30- 8:30 pm at Riverworks. Aspire’s 1st annual Winterval fundraiser brings families and friends together for an evening of food, drinks, skating and curling. 2 hours of Open Skate and Curling (6pm-8pm), Basket Raffle, Full Dinner Buffet, Unlimited Non-Alcoholic Beverages (including coffee and hot cocoa, cash bar. Skate rental included but limited. If you own skates please bring them. Adults $25. Children under 5 years old are free, and children 5 - 10 years old $20. www.eventbrite.com/o/aspire-of- wny-18327739359. Buffalo RiverWorks, 359 Ganson St. Buffalo, NY.
The Buffalo Museum of Science presents THE ART OF THE BRICK 4» and features original pieces, as well as re-imagined versions of some of the world’s most famous art masterpieces, like Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” made exclusively from LEGO bricks. This show will be on display from February 9 through May 4. Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, NY
Write Your Own Children’s Book. 5» This workshop is FREE, aimed at young students aged 12–18, and limited to 12 participants. Tue, Feb 26, 2019, 4:30 pm and Thu, Feb 28, 2019, 5:30 pm EST. Just Buffalo Writing Center, 468 Washington Street, 2nd floor, Buffalo. Call 716-832-5400. 22 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 CALENDAR
February 2 February 10 Pre-Super Bowl Party Lecture on Kehillat Ohr Tzion Holocaust Study Findings 7:00-9:00 pm on intergenerational 879 Hopkins Road long-term effects of the Email [email protected] Holocaust on the Children of Survivors by Nurit Fischer –Shemer February 3 2:00 pm JCC/Benderson Family Building Get S’More of Camp Centerland! Registration opens- Family friendly Contact: 650-7627 activities. Sign up for 2019 Camp and get a free gift. February 11 12:30-2:30 pm Amiel BaKehila Lecture: JCC Benderson Family Building Israeli Security Expert Jordan Herzberg will speak Chabad presents “Against All Odds” “Ethics, Morality and the IDF” the story of Yosef Mendelevich 7:30 pm 2:30 pm Hillel of Buffalo Chabad Knesset Center, 520 Lee Entrance/UB Commons, 500 Starin Ave. Suite 101 B
February 7-March 13 February 15 Talley’s Folley- at the Jewish Tot Shabbat Repertory Theatre 5:45-6:45 pm Seller Theatre at the Benderson Congregation Shir Shalom Family JCC Contact: $38 general tickets/ $36 senior/ [email protected] $10 student with ID February 18 February 9 President’s Day observed Concert commemorating in many places the 10th Anniversary of the Crash of Flight 3407 February 24 7:00 pm CSS Men’s Group Congregation Shir Shalom with Gary Bluestein 9:15 am February 10 Congregation Shir Shalom TBZ Brotherhood’s Achim 4660 Sheridan Drive with Rob Goldberg RSVP to Shir Shalom: 633-8877 10:00 am Weinberg Campus’s February is Meadows Lounge Jewish Disability Month Free & open to the community February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 23 SPECIAL SECTION Meet Your Kosher Chef Dining Guide
Lori Morrison is owner, operator, and chef of Luscious by Lori, a specialty catering firm • Globally under the supervision of Buffalo Vaad of Inspired Kashrus (BVK). Lori has been in the hospi- tality business for over thirty years and un- • Moderately derstands how to ensure that every event is successful and no detail is overlooked. Lus- Priced cious by Lori specializes in small parties, ap- petizer platters, wraps, salads, desserts, and • Eclectic fruit displays. Whether it’s a special gather- Cuisine ing at your house, a meeting at your busi- 370 VIRGINIA STREET BUFFALO 14201 www.facebook.com/bettysbuffalo ness, or even weekly meal service, Luscious www.bettysbuffalo.com Lori Morrison by Lori is the option for you. 362-0633 • Quirky Digs Luscious By Lori 998-0218 WEEKEND BRUNCH: Sat. & Sun. • Funky Staff [email protected] Luscious ... BREAKFAST & LUNCH: Tues.-Fri. • Local Art by Lori DINNER: Tues.-Sat.
Nechama is a Montreal native and moved to Buffalo 13 years ago. Having a severe lack of strictly kosher caterers and bakers in West- ern New York, she created BK Gourmet to fill that void. Everything is baked fresh, us- ing only the highest quality ingredients. BK Gourmet offers a wide menu with all foods made to order, on site. A variety of baked goods from challah to desserts, dessert buf- fets to catering, simple Shabbat meals to Lunch & Dinner larger functions including life cycle events Mon- ur 11am-10pm Nechama Okonov are available. Fri-Sat 11am-10pm BK Gourmet 500 Starin Avenue 6011 Main Street Kenmore, NY 14216 Williamsville, NY 14221 510-9850 [email protected] 716.633.8432 | 716.633.8517 bkgourmet.com
Nissan’s Kosher Deli is the perfect one-stop shop for your kosher needs. Located in the Tops Friendly Market on Maple Road in Am- herst, Nissan provides, eat-in, take-out, Glatt kosher meats, over 2,000 kosher grocery items, kosher catering, party platters and the only kosher butcher in WNY. Delivery service is provided within 20 miles. Stop in for lunch or to buy your entire Shabbos meal. Nissan’s Kosher Deli is supervised by the Buffalo Va’ad Kashruth. Deli hours are Monday-Thursday 10-7, Friday 9-2, Sunday Nissan Berg 9-3. Tops is open 24 hours and kosher gro- Nissan’s Kosher Deli ceries are always available. Serving our community since 1982 Tops Lunch, dinner & catering 3980 Maple Rd., Visit our website check out our daily specials! Amherst, 14226 www.LebrosRestaurant.com www.buffalokosher.com 716-688-0404 330 Campbell Blvd. Getzville, NY
24 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 Dining Guide
Enjoy the Tradition of Ireland at
Casual Atmosphere Serving a Mix of Traditional Irish & American Fare • 24 Beer Taps • Local Craft Brews • • Large Screen TVs • • Party & Meeting Rooms • • Live Music • Sunday Brunch •
5601 MAIN STREET • WILLIAMSVILLE • 716-626-2670
LIKE SUSHI? YOU WILL LOVE
689-6600 8444 Transit Road, Williamsville 5933 MAIN STREET www.tavernatwindsorpark.com WILLIAMSVILLE 716.271.7653 SERVING WINE AND BEER EATFRESHCATCH.COM
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 25 SYNAGOGUES ORGANIZATIONS KENNY CARPETS AND FLOORS Jewish Community Organizations in Western New York
Buffalo Jewish Federation Jewish Community Center of Greater 2640 North Forest Road Buffalo, Inc. Getzville, NY 14068 Benderson Family Building TEL 716-204-2241 2640 North Forest Road www.buffalojewishfederation.org Getzville, NY 14068 Rob Goldberg - CEO & Executive Director TEL 716-688-4033 Leslie Shuman Kramer - President Richard Zakalik - Executive Director Susan Freed-Oestreicher - President Center for Jewish Engagement & Learning Holland Family Building 2640 North Forest Road 787 Delaware Avenue Getzville, NY 14068 www.buffalojewishfederation.org Buffalo, NY 14209 Ellen Weiss - President TEL 716-886-3145 Miriam Abramovich - Director of www.jccbuffalo.org Engagement Jewish Discovery Center Chabad House of Buffalo 757 Hopkins Road 2450 North Forest Road Williamsville, NY 14221 FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE Getzville, NY 14068 831 Maple Road TEL 716-688-1642 Williamsville, NY 14221 (office) PAY NO INTEREST FOR ONE FULL YEAR* www.chabadbuffalo.com TEL: 716-639-7600 Rabbi Moshe Gurary - Director TEL: 716-632-0467 Rabbi Heschel Greenberg Chai Early Childhood Center Rabbi Laizer Labkovski TOP 5 REASONS YOU MUST 757 Hopkins Road www.jewishdiscovery.org COME TO KENNY CARPETS: Williamsville, NY 14221 TEL 716 580-4600 Jewish Family Service Of Buffalo www.chainursery.com And Erie County 1. WNYs largest volume ooring chain, our selection is overwhelming, Chani Labkovski - Director 70 Barker Street Buffalo, NY 14209 our volume saves you lots of money. Department of Jewish Thought TEL 716-883-1914 2. Serving WNY since 1960, no one has our experience in installing 712 Clemens Hall - University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY 14260 www.jfsbuffalo.org carpet and oors. TEL 716-645-3695 Marlene Schillinger - Executive Director Email: [email protected] Blaine Schwartz - Chair 3. Our sta averages 19 years of experience - no one will serve you better. www.jewishstudies.buffalo.edu Dr. Sergey Dolgopolski, Chair Jewish Federation Apartments 4. We stock more carpet, wood, laminate, and vinyl than any store. Buy 275 Essjay Road today, Install Tomorrow. Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies Williamsville, NY 14221 2640 North Forest Road TEL 716-631-8471 5. Our prices are signi cantly lower than any Outlet, Home Center or Getzville, NY 14068 www.jewishfederationapartments.org Store. Ask about our low price guarantee!! TEL 716-204-1133 Kathleen Haggerty - Property Manager www.jewishphilanthropies.org Shawn Frier - President *to quali ed buyers Irv Levy - COO, CFO Lynn Catalano - Director of Development Jewish Federation Cemetery Don Kohnstamm - President Corporation, Inc. 2640 North Forest Road Hadassah Getzville, NY 14068 2640 North Forest Road TEL 716-204-2246 Getzville, NY 14068 TEL 716-688-5260 www.jfedbflo.com [email protected] Deborah Pivarsi - Director Elaine Kellick, Annette Magid, Charlotte Gendler, President and Rhonda Wise- Co-Presidents REMEMBER ... Kadimah Academy Hebrew Benevolent Loan Association 1085 Eggert Road DO THE KENNY! 2640 North Forest Road in FJP offices Amherst, NY 14226 Getzville, NY 14068 TEL 716-836-6903 7600 Transit Rd. TEL 716-204-0542 www.kadimah.org (Opposite Eastern Hills Mall) Judith Katzenelson Brownstein- President Fran Paskowitz - Principal Jonathan Epstein - President 631-0028 Hillel of Buffalo 3240 Transit Rd. Campus Center of Jewish Life Kosher Meals on Wheels 520 Lee Entrance/UB Commons (at Seneca Creek) 757 Hopkins Road Suite #101B Williamsville, NY 14221 656-0426 W. Amherst, NY 14228 Tel 716 639-7600 TEL 716-616-0083 www.koshermow.com 2995 Sheridan Dr. Rabbi Sara Rich - Director Rabbi Laizer Labkovski - Director (at Niagara Falls Blvd. next to Dr. Jeffrey Lackner - President www.hillelofbuffalo.org Jeffery Pasler – President Northtown Plaza) 836-8100 Holocaust Resource Center Ohr Temimim School 336 Harris Hill Road, Suite 302 411 John James Audubon Parkway Williamsville, NY 14221 W. Amherst, NY 14228 HOURS: M F 9 8, SAT 10 5, SUN 12 5 TEL: 716-634-9535 TEL 716-568-0226 www.hrcbuffalo.org www.ohrtemimimschool.com Rachel Kranitz McPhee - President Rabbi Shmuel Shanowitz - Principal www.kennycarpets.com Mandy Weiss - Acting Director Jonathan Gellman - President
26 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 ORGANIZATIONS SYNAGOGUES
One Stop Jewish Buffalo Knesset Center (Orthodox) A free website updated weekly about all 500 Starin Avenue that’s happening in Jewish Buffalo Buffalo, NY 14214 Nathan Sull - Publisher TEL 716-832-5063 Aaron Sull - Editor Rabbi Shmaryahu Charitonow www.OneStopJewishBuffalo.com www.chabad.org
Weinberg Campus Saranac Synagogue (Orthodox) 2700 North Forest Road President - Shmuel Rashkin Getzville, NY 14068 Vice President - Reuven Alt TEL 716-639-3311 Gabbai David Kunkel www.weinbergcampus.org 85 Saranac Avenue Robert Mayer- President & CEO Buffalo New York 14216 Kenneth Rogers- Chairman of the Board TEL 716 876 1284 of Directors www.SaranacSynagogue.org
Yad B’Yad Temple Beth Tzedek (Conservative) TEL 716-204-5380 1641 North Forest Road www.yadbyad.org Williamsville, NY 14222 Robin Raphael - Chair Rabbi Samuel Barth Cantor Mark Spindler Andy Gewurz - President Western New York Kim Jones - Administrator TEL 716- 838-3232 Synagogues and Temples www.btzbuffalo.org
Chabad House of Buffalo Temple Beth Zion (Reform) (unaffiliated) Sanctuary: 805 Delaware Avenue 2450 North. Forest Rd, Buffalo, NY 14209 Getzville, NY 14068 Religious School and Offices: TEL 716-688-1642 700 Sweet Home Road www.chabadbuffalo.com Amherst, NY 14226 Rabbi Jonathan Freirich Congregation Beth Abraham Cantor Penny Myers (Conservative) Amy Schaefer - Temple Administrator 1073 Elmwood Avenue Julie Dressler Weinberg - President Buffalo, NY 14222 TEL 716-836-6565 www.congregationbethabraham.net www.tbz.org
Congregation Shir Shalom Temple Beth El (Reform) (Reform/ Reconstructionist) 720 Ashland Avenue 4660 Sheridan Drive Niagara Falls, NY 14301 Williamsville, NY 14221 Rabbi Ellen Franke TEL 716-633-8877 Cantorial Soloist Barry Rose Rabbi Alexander Lazarus-Klein William Bell - President Cantor Arlene Frank TEL 716-282-2717 Joanne Marquisee - Executive Director www.niagarafallstemple.com Bruce Corris - President www.shirshalombuffalo.org Temple Emanu-El (Reform) 124 Bank Street Congregation Havurah (Reform) Batavia, NY 14020 6320 Main St., Williamsville, NY 14221 TEL 585-343-7027 Bernard Schenkler, President Stan Schumann - President Enid Edelman, Membership Chair TEL 716-689-8059 The Family Shul (Unaffiliated) www.congregationhavurah.org 757 Hopkins Road [email protected] Williamsville, NY 14221 Rabbi Heschel Greenberg Kehillat Ohr Tzion Rabbi Laizer Labkovski (Modern Orthodox) 716-639-7600 879 Hopkins Rd Williamsville, NY 14221 Young Israel of Greater Buffalo (Orthodox) Rabbi Ori Bergman 105 Maple Road Jeff Schapiro - President Williamsville, NY 14221 http://ohrtzion.org/kot Rabbi Eliezar Marcus Richard G. Berger- President TEL 716-634-0212 www.yibuffalo.org
Attention Snowbirds! MECHANICAL SERVICES Due to postal regulations, the Jewish Journal of Western New York will no longer be forwarded to “temporary change” addresses. • Complete Residential and Commercial Heating & Cooling Service If you plan to be away from your permanent address and will • Standby Generator Service & Installation have your first class mail forwarded to your temporary address and would like to continue to receive the Jewish Journal over the winter or the summer, please call Joan Kwiatkowski at 716-204-2242 to give us your “temporary” address. Thank you! CALL FRITZ (716) 476-8286
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 27 SYNAGOGUES Rob Goldberg Speaks CSS Men’s Group Feb. 24: Feb. 10 at TBZ Achim Dealing with the Internal Revenue Service from the Inside and the Outside This month’s Congregation Shir Shalom Men’s Group The TBZ Brotherhood Achim program speaker February 24 at 9:15 am will be attorney Gary February 10 at 10:00 am will feature Rob Bluestein, who will discuss the IRS. Gary spent the first Goldberg, Chief Executive Officer of the half of his career as an attorney for the IRS, with a dual Buffalo Jewish Federation. Goldberg is a appointment as a Special Assistant United States Attorney. past participant in the Achim series, and After he left government service, he became one of the he will be presenting a discussion entitled founding partners in Andreozzi Bluestein Law, a firm “Seder Every Day.” This provocative and which represents clients who have problems with the IRS timely discussion will incorporate the or New York taxing authorities. concept of “Jewish engagement” and the Gary will also discuss civil and criminal tax enforcement idea behind the Passover Seder. Questions from both sides, and will highlight what people should know about their rights and their and discussion are welcome. exposure, both in the civil and criminal arenas. At this program bagels & lox will be Achim is a monthly program sponsored served, and both men and women are encouraged to attend. Please RSVP to the Temple by the Temple Beth Zion Brotherhood for Office at 633-8877. the benefit of the residents, their guests, and the community, at the Weinberg Campus. It is open to the public at no cost. You do not need to be Jewish to enjoy or Learning Opportunities at learn from this program. The program takes place at the Meadows Kehillat Ohr Tzion Lounge on the second floor, located at the Weinberg Campus, 2700 North Forest Road in Getzville. For further information, please contact Ken Graber at 681-9885. Rob Goldberg
Kehillat Ohr Tzion’s Rabbi Ori Bergman looks for opportunities to offer classes in a variety of settings. On Sunday mornings after davening, he examines current issues through a Talmudic lens. On Tuesday afternoons, he offers a class at Cheryl Stein’s law office on prayer. Later in the day on Tuesdays, you can find him at Dash’s grocery teaching an introduction to Judaism. The community is invited to participate in any of these classes. For more information, contact [email protected].
Tot Shabbat with PJ Library at Congregation Shir Shalom Friday, February 15 • 5:45 pm
Join your family and friends for Tot Shabbat with PJ Library. The CSS clergy and staff will lead a Tot’s Service and celebration of Shabbat including joyful singing, crafts, story time and more! Make new friends and catch the Shabbat spirit! Open to the community. A complimentary Pizza Dinner will follow. Please RSVP to the Temple Office at 633-8877.
28 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 SYNAGOGUES Buffalo Jazz PALS-Kadimah Winter Fun Collective Sextet I and Thou PALS-Kadimah pre- and Lunch with @TBZ featuring school students take time out of playing hard Temple Beth Zion trombonist inside to romp around in the snow outside. James Burton III Fridays, February 22, March 22 The Buffalo Jazz Collective includes some of the finest musicians from Western Noon – 1 pm New York and beyond. Come to Temple Beth ZIon, 805 Delaware Avenue on Saturday, Temple Beth Zion library, March 9 and hear featured musician and 805 Delaware Ave. NYC-based trombonist, James Burton III, a member of Juilliard’s jazz faculty since The fundamentals of relational 2011. For this concert, Burton will join Judaism start with the thinking of the Buffalo Jazz Collective Sextet for an Martin Buber in his beautiful I and Thou. exciting evening of world-class jazz. $15 Learn this profound text in conversation per person at the door. 7 pm reception, – no preparation required. followed by the concert at 7:30 pm. Lunch and drinks provided.
February Pulpit Exchange Talmud Talk with at Shir Shalom Temple Beth Zion Rev. Michele Buhite of the Amherst Unitarian Universalist Church will take the CSS bimah Friday, February 15th at Wednesdays, 7:00 pm to talk about her Christian February 13, March 13 spiritual journey. An Oneg Shabbat will Noon – 1 pm follow. Then, Rabbi Alex Lazarus Klein will t be speaking at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Amherst Sunday, February 17th Milos, 5877 Main St., Williamsville at 10:30 am on his Jewish spiritual journey. Both programs are open to the community. All our Judaism, especially Reform Judaism, starts in the Talmud.
Everyone welcome – we are all Jewish Scout Shabbat beginners in the ocean of Jewish learning. Materials provided. at Shir Shalom No host lunch. Friday, February 8, 2019 7:00 pm
CSS will welcome Scouts who will attend in uniform and participate in Caring Transitions Will Help: our Erev Shabbat Service. Organizing & Decluttering An Oneg Shabbat will follow and Downsizing be sponsored by the WNY Jewish Committee on Scouting. Senior Relocation OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY! Our Comprehensive Approach Means Your Upcoming Move Coordination Congregation Shir Shalom Move or Estate Liquidation Will Be Stress Free Complete Cleanouts 4660 Sheridan Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 Dale and Candace Kadish Right Sizing 716.633.8877 716-580-4822 Relocation Planning shirshalombuffalo.org www.CaringTransitionsBuffaloNY.com
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 29 AGENCIES JCC at 70: Community Life, historical painting by Lewis Rubenstein, restored at Holland Family JCC
By Jordana Halpern uncover the original painting. “We worked on this painting with kid An astounding mural of historical gloves to stabilize and preserve it to significance, “Community Life” by artist last another 50 years.” Lewis Rubenstein, has been refurbished Historically Rubenstein was and is now featured as part of the well known for his frescos but permanent collection at the JCC Holland “Community Life” is a unique Family Building, adorning the entryway example of his work in oil painting. that faces Delaware Avenue. “The style we see in this piece truly Artist Lewis Rubenstein, son of demonstrates the breakout period of Emil and Hannah Rubenstein, and an the 1950s when artists were breaking art student who studied at the Albright the mold. It was an era of expression Knox Art School, Harvard University, and this painting beautifully conveys and in Paris, Rome and Cambridge, and the spirituality of the artist, captured later taught art at Vassar College, was in his style and the subjects he commissioned in 1949 to paint the mural. painted,” said DiVincenzo. Rubenstein used the hora (a traditional Because of the location of the Israeli dance) as the central theme of the painting, across from the member painting to demonstrate the importance services desk on the main floor of of music and storytelling in the Jewish the Holland Building, and facing community. A young tree growing out of out towards Delaware Avenue, it’s a stump symbolized the revitalization of best to view “Community Life” in contemporary Jewish life. On January 18, person. Visitors and members at the 1950, the mural was dedicated at the JCC JCC can enjoy the refurbished mural and later won the Empire State Architects any time they are in the building. Award. Rubenstein’s artistic theme of This year, as part of the JCC’s $4 community continues to exemplify million renovation project to meet the the JCC’s mission to, “Build and growing needs of Buffalo communities, strengthen the Jewish and Western the painting was restored by Mark New York communities by providing DiVincenzo, primary artist at DiVincenzo recreational, educational, cultural Studios. DiVincenzo, along with Hannah and social programs and services Above: The restored “Community Life” mural at Olek, worked on restoring the painting the JCC Holland Building. Right: Art restorers that are consistent with Jewish for 10 days. “The painting was damaged Mark DiVincenzo and Hannah Olek take a values.” by 50 years of sun exposure, and in some break while touching up the 70 year old mural. Jordana Halpern is Director of of the areas the paint was powder, so Development at the JCC. For more we had to reconstitute the powder with DiVincenzo. When the restoration was information about the Jewish a special solution and then restore and complete, the painting was covered with Community Center at 787 Delaware repaint those sections, while retaining a clear coating of removable varnish so Avenue, as well as hours and the integrity of the original work,” said that in the future, conservators could programs, visit www.jccbuffalo.org.
CAFÉ EUROPA AND KADIMAH SCHOOL On December 5, Café Europa joined Kadimah These programs exist School for a joyous Hanukah celebration. The throughout the United States and children of Kadimah presented a delightful Canada. Buffalo’s Café Europa program of song and dance to celebrate the project is offered to Survivors festival. Candle lighting was followed by a through a generous grant from delicious latke lunch for all. the Conference on Jewish Material Café Europa offers Holocaust Survivors the Claims Against Germany, Inc., and opportunity to socialize with other survivors operates through the JCC. For from similar backgrounds and experiences. more information on this program This series of semi-monthly programs includes please call Karla Wiseman at musical entertainment, holiday celebrations, the Jewish Community Center of lectures on interesting topics, films and special Buffalo at 204-2257 or email her trips to various places. at [email protected].
30 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 AGENCIES JEWISH REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS TALLEY’S FOLLY Jewish Repertory continues its 16th season with the 1980 Pulitzer-prize winning play, Talley’s Folly, by Lanford Wilson, February 7 – March 3.
each other—two “lame ducks” who, in their union, will find a wholeness rare in human relationships. “Since its inception in 1917, only 99 plays have received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and rarely do comedies receive the prestigious honor,” says JRT co-founder and Artistic Director, Saul Elkin. “The Pulitzer judges were taken with Lanford Wilson’s quiet, funny, yet powerful Talley’s Folly … and so were we. On the surface, this is a simple story of an over-forties bachelor wooing a thirty something spinster but we think audiences will find it full, Set in a 1944 deserted rich and sweetly amusing. The JCC is pleased to Victorian boathouse on the welcome back director Steve Vaughan (Bad Jews, Talley place in Lebanon, Beau Jest) and actress Anne Roaldi Boucher (After Missouri, Talley’s Folly follows the Revolution, Compulsion or The House Behind, Matt Friedman, a Jewish Kindertransport), and to welcome for the first time accountant from St. Louis, who on the JRT stage, actor Chris J. Handley.” has arrived to plead his love “The Folly” referred to in the title of the play is to Sally Talley, the susceptible a boathouse, a fanciful and frivolously extravagant but uncertain daughter of the structure that comments on the aesthetics of family. Bookish, erudite, totally another era. This romantic setting is full of honest, and delightfully funny, intention as a backdrop for the obstacle fraught Matt refuses to accept Sally’s courtship that blossoms during the darkest days Wishing You Many Miracles! rebuffs and her fears that her of World War II. Set designer David Dwyer, with FROM family would never approve of decades of impressive set design in his portfolio their marriage. of work, has long wanted to build a set for Talley’s Dr. Amy Beth What begins as a story that Folly, and will be recreating this famous boathouse • Evening & Weekend Appointments appears on the outside to be for the Jewish Repertory Theatre’s production. • Therapy, Workshops, DWI Evaluations about a Jewish man wooing The Jewish Repertory Theatre of Western New Court-Ordered Assessments a gentile woman in the 1944 York is a program of the JCC of Greater Buffalo. Experience - Professionalism - Sensitivity Midwest quickly shifts to reveal This season’s original artwork is created by the challenge of relationships artist Eta Rottenberg. For more information on Dr. Amy Beth Taublieb between two emotionally JRT productions, dates and tickets, visit www. New York State Licensed Psychologist wounded individuals who jewishrepertorytheatre.com. Tickets are available 1006 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Tonawanda belong together. Gradually it is at 716-650-7626, through Showclix at 1-888- 716-834-1505 clear that they are two kindred 718-4253 (Monday-Friday, 9am-9pm EST) or at www.dramybeth.com spirits who have truly found either JCC reception desk. February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 31 There's something about the JCC Happening in February at the
Sign up your child for Your JCC will be celebrating its 70th anniversary Camp Centerland SAVE on February 3 and CELEBRATING get 2018 prices SEVENTY THE DATE YEARS
a plus FREE gift! 70JCC BUFFALO
Sunday, May 19, 2019, 6:00-9:00pm Jewish Community Center, Holland Family Building Join us as we kick off 787 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY Live music, entertainment, food/beverage stations & more! Come party with old Summer 2018 camp registration! and new friends! Sponsorship and advertising opportunities available. February 3 12:30-2:30pm Please call Jordana Halpern at 716-204-2255 or [email protected] Enjoy family friendly activities, and meet some of the specialty camps for 2019. Talley’s Folly Bb Everyone Welcome Amherst By Lanford Wilson 7- 3, 2019 Pulitzer Feb. Box office:March 716-650-7626 Prize Winner! Showclix box office: 888-718-4253 Group & student discounts available! School Break Fun www.jewishrepertorytheatre.com
Child re Children’s Vacation Club n ’ s Grades K-6 | 8:00am-6:00pm lub Buffalo on C When school’s out for holidays or conference days, the ati Vac JCC is in! Daily activities typically include a field trip, gym, crafts, drama, cooking, and other games. Bring a lunch, sneakers, swim International suit and towel each day. Jewish Film Festival Full Member Gym/CP Bb February Recess JCC of Greater Buffalo $55 per day $65 per day Feb. 18 - 22 Amherst #19865 March 22-28, 2019 Amherst Dipson Theatre Hb February Recess 3500 Main Street, Buffalo Feb. 18 - 22 www.bijff.com Buffalo #19869 For more information or to register TWO SPECIAL EVENTS! Shea Akers (Amherst): 688-4114 x303 or Festival Fundraiser: A Conversation with Linda Reisman Christine Dusher (Buffalo): 886-3172 x420 Saturday, March 9, 7:30pm Producer Linda Reisman, of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, raised in Buffalo, talks about “The Role of the Producer.” Vacation Break Gym and Swim Ages 4-10 | 9:30am-12:30pm Transformative Generosity: How Donated Instruments and Music Change Lives pm Swimming, crafts and gym fun! Same day Saturday, March 16, 7:00 registrations accepted if there room! Music by students of Buffalo String Works, followed by Academy Award Winning Register for all 5 days and save 10%. documentary Joe’s Violin, and a panel discussion. Full Member Gym/CP $ $ Events at JCC Benderson Family Building. Wine and dessert receptions. 20 per day 25 per day Details and ticket info at www.bijff.com. Bb February Recess Feb. 18 - 22 2018/19 Cultural Arts Season Sponsor Amherst #20112 A program of the JCC of For more information: Nate Cox: 204-2085 Greater Buffalo
Benderson Family Building Holland Family Building JCC Hours Bb Amherst Hb Buffalo Sun 8:00am - 6: 00 pm Amherst 2640 North Forest Road Buffalo 787 Delaware Avenue Mon-Thurs 5:30am - 9 : 3 0 pm adjacent to UB North at Summer Street Friday 5:30am - 7: 00 pm 688-4033 886-3145 Sat 8:00am - 6: 00 pm JCCBUFFALO.ORG 32 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 AGENCIES “PRAY TELL” & MORE WITH JCC, JFS Holiday Mitzvot
BUFFALO HADASSAH Jewish Community Center staff and members partnered with Jewish Family Service to ensure immigrant children, who recently made the challenging transition from troubled Buffalo Hadassah has held several regions overseas to a new life in America, had an extra special holiday in their Buffalo exciting and well attended programs communities by donating gifts for the children. Between both JCC buildings, more than during the last few months. Over 100 gifts were collected and distributed, making everyone’s holiday season that much more 40 women celebrated Hanukkah happy and fulfilling. together at the home of Judi Stern. A variety of menorahs were displayed on all the tables, which enhanced the holiday spirit! After lunch, several of the attendees talked about some of the unique menorahs. its format. This year, the group will be Later in the month Hadassah held exploring Jewish communities, foods and a special program with Israeli artist customs from different parts of the world. David Friedman, who made a power As part of this program, Rabbi Ori Bergman point presentation of some of his spoke at the December meeting about his paintings from his gallery in Tzfat. He mother’s Iraqi roots, and he brought a was in Buffalo for three days as part delicious rice and lentil dish for everyone of a delegation from Amiel BaKahila, to taste. Another Iraqi food that everyone an organization funded by the Israel enjoyed was a date and nut dessert made Ministry of Diaspora Affairs. His by Phyllis Steinberg. interactive presentation about the Buffalo Hadassah continues to welcome symbolism in his art was very well new members and members from other received by those in attendance. chapters. For membership information “Pray Tell,” one of Hadassah’s long contact Nancy Greenberg at nangrnberg@ standing monthly groups, is changing gmail.com.
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 33 WIN 4 FREE CAREER DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS!
$260 VALUE Bring Clarity to Your Career in 2019.
How JFS Buffalo Can Help You With Your Career:
Navigating a career change Career decision-making
Selecting a college, graduate school, or Assessment of abilities, interests, & other career training program related factors
Interviewing & job search strategies & Evaluation of qualifications, transferable support skills, & marketability
Enter to win online at www.jfsbuffalo.org
34 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 AGENCIES ISRAELI ARTIST DAVID FRIEDMAN IN BUFFALO
As part of the Amiel BaKehila project of Israel’s Ministry of the Diaspora Afffairs, artist David Friedman visited Buffalo in December. A painter living in Tzfat, Israel, David brings his love of Kaballah and nature into his work. He was able to share his work and art classes with Hadassah, Jewish Federation Apartments tenants, Jewish Federation staff, middle school and high school students, and several synagogue groups. For more information on Amiel BaKehila programs this month, with security expert Jordan Herzberg (see p.7), email [email protected].
Celebrate 70 years with the JCC!
Sunday, May 19, 6-9 pm JCC Holland Family Building 787 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo
Food/beverage stations, music, dancing, entertainment, art gallery, magic, basket raffle and more!
Contact Jordana Halpern at 716-204-2255, jhalpern@jccbuffalo for info and sponsorship opportunities.
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 35 36 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 AGENCIES Film Producer & Buffalo Native Linda Reisman returns March 9 for Film Festival
By Rick Kollins a creative producer originating Reisman moved to Boston and developing material and in 2013 and has been able to Williamsville native and award-winning film producer Linda Reisman will be guest speaker at a special overseeing the production and balance teaching with her own fundraising kick-off for the 34th annual Buffalo International Jewish Film Festival at the Benderson Family post-production. This involves film projects since then. She Building in Amherst, Saturday, March 9 at 7:30 p.m. The evening includes Ms. Reisman’s talk and some clips finding good material, helping indicated that The Danish Girl from her films, as well as a reception. develop the screenplay, hiring actually took about 12 years the actors and being involved in to complete. “It’s not unusual, One of Reisman’s most notable films the marketing, distribution and directors fall out and actors fall was The Danish Girl, which received four publicity. The job really never out,” she said. “I remind my Academy Award nominations and an ends.” students it took Steven Spielberg Oscar for best supporting actress Alicia Leave No Trace has 20 years to make Lincoln.” Vikander in 2016. Her recent project been nominated for three Reisman still considers Leave No Trace won best director for independent film Spirit Awards Buffalo home and visits often. Debra Granik in the Los Angeles Film as best feature, best director She lost her father, allergist Dr. Critics Association selections, and Granik and best supporting Robert Reisman, in 2012 and her has been nominated for several other female, 18-year-old New mother, artist Rena Reisman, in prestigious awards. Zealander Thomasin Harcourt 2014, but still has her brother Reisman’s interest in the arts came McKenzie, who has already been David and his family and her naturally as her mother Rena was an named breakthrough performer aunt Janet Gross living here. accomplished visual artist recognized for by the National Board of Review At the March 9 fundraiser, her abstract naturalistic landscapes. “My of Motion Pictures and best sponsored by the Hurwitz and parents were completely supportive of young actress by the Broadcast Fine law firm, Reisman will my artistic interests and pursuits when Film Critics Association. discuss her career and the role I was in high school,” Reisman recalled. The film is based on of the movie producer. A limited “We spent a lot of time at the Albright- Peter Rock’s 2010 novel number of tickets are available Knox Art Gallery and I took classes in “My Abandonment,” which at $36 each and includes a photography at CEPA” (The Center for was inspired by the true- wine and dessert reception and Exploratory and Perceptual Art located in life story of a man and his admission to a screening at the the Market Arcade). teenaged daughter living for Film Festival. Contact Katie After graduating from Antioch College years in a nature preserve in Wzontek at (716) 204-2084 for in Yellow Springs, Ohio, Reisman earned Portland, Oregon. The movie reservations. a Master’s degree from the San Francisco was co-written by Granik, The Buffalo International Art Institute, and was in the process of whose 2010 film Winter’s Bone Jewish Film Festival runs from applying to PhD programs when “sheer earned Jennifer Lawrence her March 22-28 at the Dipson good luck”, as she put it, changed the first Oscar nomination for Amherst Theatre on Main Street. course of her life. Linda Reisman best actress. The Spirit Award This year’s lineup includes five “I did some work for a film journal in winners will be announced feature films from Israel and San Francisco, and it just so happened and received her first credits as an associate producer for February 23, the day before the Germany and six documentaries that the office was located in the same Patty Hearst (1988) and The Comfort of Strangers (1989), both Academy Awards. from the US, Canada, Australia building where Francis Ford Coppola had of which had their premieres at the Cannes Film Festival. Reisman is also Senior and Austria. his production headquarters,” Reisman Her first film as a lead producer was Schrader’s Light Sleeper, Distinguished Producer-in- Canadian director Matthew explained. “That’s where I met producer which premiered at the Berlin and Sundance Film Festivals Residence at Boston’s Emerson Shoychet will attend and Tom Luddy, who invited me to be his in 1992. College, which is regarded as conduct a Q and A following the assistant when an opening came up and, Reisman collected her first award for the 1997 film one of the country’s premier screening of his documentary of course, I jumped at the opportunity.” Affliction, which received six Film Independent Spirit awards, institutions of higher learning The Accountant of Auschwitz on Reisman started out working on including best picture. For their roles, James Coburn also devoted to communication and Sunday, March 24. The film tells “special projects” with Luddy, who is best won the Oscar for best supporting actor and Nick Nolte was the arts. the story of Oskar Groning, one known as director and co-founder of the nominated for best actor and received the New York Film “After Coppola shut down of the last surviving members of Telluride Film Festival. Then she worked Critics Circle award. his operation in 2003 and my the SS who went on trial in 2015 with writer/director Paul Schrader (Taxi In 1999, Reisman rejoined Coppola’s company American son Jack was born, I decided for complicity in the murder of Driver, Raging Bull, American Gigolo) as Zoetrope as Head of Production and served as Executive to try something different, 300,000 Jews at Auschwitz. a researcher and assistant during post Producer for Jeepers Creepers, No Such Thing, Pumpkin and and teaching was appealing,” Rick Kollins is a member of production for the 1985 film Mishima: Assassination Tango. Reisman said. “First, I moved the Film Festival committee. A Life in Four Chapters, a biographical Reisman explained the different types of movie back to Buffalo and set up a drama based on the life and work of producers. “There are executive producers, who put up special graduate program in For complete information on Japanese writer Yukio Mishima. the financing but can also be line producers or creative film and performance at UB, the Film Festival, please visit After Mishima, Reisman moved to New producers. Line producers do the nuts and bolts, including then commuted to Boston when www.bijff.com. York to continue working with Schrader budgets, schedules and hiring the crews. I consider myself I got the position at Emerson.” February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 37 JEWS IN THE NEWS Congregation Havurah @ South Buffalo Community Mitzvah Tank at Table Soup Kitchen & Durham AME Church Hanukkah Mendy Greenberg, 19, currently a Yeshiva student in Brooklyn, once again organized a wonderful “Mitzvah Tank” for the Buffalo community this Hanukkah. People had a chance to pop in for a quick hello, to lay Tefillin, to learn about the holiday, to receive a Menorah, a delicious doughnut or latke and enjoy a dreidel game. The Hanukkah RV drove around town playing lively Hanukkah music, displaying the number of candles to light and spreading the light and joy of the holiday. The Mitzvah Tank also made stops at the hospital, bringing the light of Hanukkah (and some doughnuts) to those who are unable to experience it elsewhere. Mendy is the son of Rabbi Levi and Rivky Greenberg of the Jewish Discovery Center. Learn more about the JDC at www.JewishDiscovery.org
Last night of Hanukkah get-together for women! Rivky Greenberg hosted a women’s event on the last night of Hanukkah. After lighting the menorah together, Rivky shared some words of inspiration about using our “Muscle of Impossibility”..., how G-d granted us that unique power of the soul allowing us to achieve the seemingly impossible when challenges arise in life. Rivky ended the evening with a story and song illustrating this point and everyone enjoyed a delicious buffet and schmoozing with friends! For more information about monthly inspirational gatherings for women, please contact Rivky at [email protected] or (716) 906-8890.
38 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 JEWS IN THE NEWS Hanukkah with JDC
Divorced? Widowed? Need help? Sheryl Kardaman Silverberg SRES, ABR CALL ME. Your Neighbor, Your Realtor Adrienne Rothstein Grace CFP,® CDFA™ Certified Divorce Financial Analyst Author, Going From We to Me (716) 817-6425 [email protected] TransitioningFinances.com 6000 Sheridan Drive | Williamsville, NY | 716.634.4200 cell: 716.480.2196 Empowering Women Financially [email protected] Securities offered through Cadaret, Grant & Co. Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Davis Financial and Cadaret, Grant are separate entities
February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 39 2018 Honor Roll of Mrs. Ilene Fleischmann *** Mrs. Jessica Meyers Altman Mrs. Shelley K. Miller Mr. Peter Fleischmann *** Dr. Michael Altman Dr. Eugene R. Mindell Mr. Lawrence C. Franco Mr. and Mrs. Stuart H. Angert Mr. and Mrs. Alan R. Mollot Donors Mr. Arthur M. Gellman *** Michael B. Berger, Esq. Mr. Barry A. Muskat Mrs. Bodil K. Gellman ** Robert & David Berghash Family Dr. Charles R. Niles The Buffalo Jewish Federation thanks and honors all of our Mrs. Susan Gellman *** Philanthropic Fund Mrs. Ellen L. Niles donors to the 2018 Campaign for Jewish Buffalo. Because Stuart A. Gellman, Esq. Dr. Joel M. Bernstein Hon. Barbara S. Nuchereno Mr. Jay H. Gershberg Dr. Drucy Borowitz Mrs. Cheryl Orlick of your generosity, our local and national agencies are able Archie and Patty Glick Mr. David N. Bunis Mr. Todd Joseph & Cantor Barbara to provide much-needed services to ensure vibrant Jew- Mr. Howard L. Goldman *** Dr. Irwin L. Burstein Ostfeld ish life here in Western New York, in Israel and around the Mrs. Susan J. Goldman *** Mr. Frederick B. Cohen Mr. Eric L. Recoon Gretchen Gross** Dr. Michael E. Cohen Mr. Howard A. Rein world. The following names are those who have contrib- Mr. Arnold N. Kahn Ann Holland Cohn Fund Professor Robert I. Reis *** uted to the 2018 Campaign through 1/11/2019. James S. Kramer** Dr. Kenneth M. Dauber David and Dorothy Rivo Fund Mrs. Rise’ P. Kulick Mrs. Mindy A. Doerfler Mr. Kenneth A. Rogers $250,000+ $10,000 - 17,999 Drs. Carlos and Luisa Kurek Mr. David Doran Mr. Richard A. Romer Mrs. Beverly R. Levin Mrs. Rivona Ehrenreich Dr. Laurie S. Sadler International Leadership Joshua Society (JS) Mrs. Karen Baker Levin Empire Emco, Inc. Dr. Alan R. Saltzman Reunion (ILR) Any individual or family giving Sharon Levite Mr. & Mrs. Howard B. Epstein Joseph and Sandra Scheff Any Individual or family giving $10,000-24,999 Dr. Harold and Arlene G. Levy Dr. and Mrs. Marshall D. Fagin Stuart Scheff & Lori Morreale $250,000+ Mrs. Susan L. Levy Dr. Eli Farhi Mr. Blaine S. Schwartz Dr. Robert and Dr. Tova Ablove Warren Lippa Eve Y. Feigelis Dr. Barbara Segal Bernstein The Benderson Family Dr. Melvin M. Brothman Ms. Amy Lipsitz & Dr. Diane Hayes Mr. Robert P. Fine Dr. Todd Ellis Shatkin Janet Desmon *,** Mrs. Randi L. Morkisz Dr. Marc Fineberg Scott L. and Deborah L. Shiffner Rose and Bud Frank Fund Mrs. Sandra G. Morrison Dr. Stuart Lee Fischman Mr. Paul R. Shine $100,000 - 249,000 Rob and Shira Goldberg Cantor Penny Myers Howard and Laurie Foster Mrs. Chaya Shuman Prime Minister’s Council Mrs. Amy Heumann Margery S. Nobel * , ** Mrs. Florence Fox Rabbi Daniel Shuman Craig and Karen Small Any individual or family giving Mr. Eduardo P. Heumann Northtown Companies Mr. Leonard J. Freed Dr. Mont P. Stern $100,000+ Mrs. Roberta S. Joseph ** Dr. Arthur E. Orlick Dr. Emily S. Friedan Jerald and Terri Katz Kasimov Mrs. Ellen S. Reis *** Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth P. Friedman Dana and Michael Stoffman Dr. and Mrs. Herman Stone Weiss Family Philanthropic Fund * Jordan A. Levy ** Dr. Ellen P. Rich *** Mr. and Mrs. Warren B. Gelman Dr. Sol Messinger Dr. & Mrs. Daniel I. Rifkin Jane Cole Godin Fund Dr. Moises Sudit Howard Rosenhoch Sandra B. Rifkin & Michael Mesirov Dr. Philip Glick Mr. Irving Sultz $25,000 - 99,999 Mr. & Mrs. Hyman Scheff Mr. Alan K. Scheff Dr. Grant Golden & Ms. Deborah Mrs. Marilyn Sultz Dr. Maxine Seller Mr. Sheldon Schneiderman Goldman Mrs. Sheila Trossman * King David Society (KDS) Dr. Jane Vogel Fischman Mr. Kenneth Shuman Mr. Ronald Schreiber *** Byron and Dorothy Goldman Any individual or family giving Mrs. Ellen Warner Avrom and Viola Sterman Mrs. Sheryl Gutman Schreiber *** Memorial Fund $25,000+ Mr. Gene Warner The Late Wayne D. Wisbaum Mrs. Joanne M. Shatkin *** Alan and Marcia Goldstein Mrs. Leslie Shatkin Mr. Neil Weinberg Mr. Lawrence Dautch Dr. Gil Wolfe Ellen Goldstein and Mitch Flynn Dr. Samuel Shatkin, Jr. *** Mr. Peter Allen Weinmann Mr. George I. Gellman Mr. Howard A. Zemsky ** Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Green Mrs. Marilyn Shine Dr. Ilja Weinrieb Mr. Michael L. Joseph Mrs. Leslie Zemsky ** Mrs. Sharon Greenfield Mr. James L. Shuman Mr. Sidney N. Weiss Mrs. Stanford Lipsey Grelick Family Benjamin Smith Charitable Fund Jack and Barbara Yellen Sanford M. Nobel Anonymous (2) Harold and Susan Halpern Dr. Eric L. Snitzer *** Mr. Sheldon Yellen Eric and Cara Reich Mr. Jeffrey A. Hirshberg Mr. Robert B. Sommerstein Mr. Richard A. Zakalik Michael and Heather Weisman Mr. Melvyn L. Hurwitz Mrs. Linda E. Steinhorn The Late Amy Zeckhauser Bruce & Marianne Wisbaum $5,000 - 9,999 The Boris & Renee Joffe Mr. Joseph Sterman Foundation, Inc. Delaware North Companies, Inc. Lion of Judah Anonymous (27) Mr. Douglas P. Stiller Dr. & Mrs. Brian S. Joseph Women’s individual gift of $5,000+ Haskell & James Stovroff Anonymous (1) Mr. Gary A. Joseph Memorial Fund Jeffrey H. Katz Joan B. and David H. Alexander Ms. Anne M. Virag Mrs. Susan Katz $1,000 – 1,799 Mrs. Susan K. Altman Mrs. Hannah R. Weinberg $18,000 - 24,999 Dr. Elias J. Kaufman & Dr. Madeleine Miriam and Samuel Abramovich Mrs. Maxine Awner * ** Mrs. Julie A. Weinberg Kaufman Dr. Daniel Amsterdam Joshua Society (JS) Dr. Steven Awner *** Ms. Amelida Ortiz Weinmann Mr. Daniel Kester Mr. Jordan S. Balsom & Ms. Nikki Any individual or family giving Dr. Howard W. Benatovich *** Mrs. Janet K. Wisbaum * , *** Mrs. Gunilla Kester Joseph $10,000-24,999 Mrs. Lana D. Benatovich *, *** Mrs. M. Kim Yonaty Mr. Donald M. Kohnstamm Mr. James R. Biltekoff *** Cynthia Benderson Mr. Stephen L. Yonaty Dr. Deborah Raiken & Mr. Charles Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bergman Judith and Joel Brownstein Mrs. Joanne Biltekoff *** Rabbi & Mrs. Pinny Young Korn Mr. Alan L. Bernstein Mr. David H. Desmon ** Mr. Peter A. Biltekoff Saperston Asset Management Mrs. Julie C. Kweller Mr. and Mrs. Marc Bernstein Mr. Gordon R. Gross ** Bonnie Clement* Mr. and Mrs. Frank Levin Mr. Jack Bibas Leslie Shuman Kramer *,** Mrs. Joan Cohen Anonymous (4) Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Levine Mrs. Judi Biltekoff Holly W. Levy *,** Mrs. Antoinette B. Dauber Mrs. Dana R. Lewis The Late Gerald L. Birzon Marilyn C. Shuman* Mrs. Marsha A. Dautch ** Mr. and Mrs. Allan Lipman Dr. Richard Bloomberg M & T Bank Mrs. Eileen L. Fine $1,800-4999 Dr. and Mrs. Jack Lippes Marjorie Bryen Julie Kianof Fink *** Pomegranate Donald and Susan Lubick Mr. Joseph Catalano, Esq. Anonymous (1) Mr. Raymond L. Fink *** Women’s individual gift of $1,800+ Dr. Amy Ludwig Shuman *** Lynn Catalano, Esq. Mr. Steven Lustig Mr. Philip Celniker *Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJ) ** King David Society *** Joshua Society ABC-Amega, Inc. Markel Family Fund Dr. Gary N. Cohen Dr. Frank J. Altman Catherine Shuman Miller Mrs. Maura Cohen 40 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 Dr. Nancy J. Colligan Mr. Norman S. Schreiber Mrs. Shelley C. Drake Ellen Narins Mike and Rhonda Wise Mrs. Kathy Corff Rogers Dr. Steven and Sara Schultz Dr. Patricia K. Duffner Dr. and Mrs. Jeff Neu Mr. Sanford Wolffe Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Criden Karen and Bruce Sckolnick Dr. Carolyn P. Dukarm John and Esther Northman Dr. Murray A. Yost, Jr. Jonathan & Ofir Danziger Mr. Harvey F. Siegel Dr. Barry M. Epstein Mrs. JoAnne Nover Mrs. Karen L. Zakalik Dr. Neil Dashkoff The Late Myron M . Siegel Dr. Howard S. Faden Mr. and Mrs. Randolph C. Ms. Judy Sally Zeckhauser Mr. Richard Day Mrs. Cheryl Stein Mrs. Joy A. Feldman Oppenheimer Ms. Margery Zeckhauser Mr. and Mrs. Marvin T. Dubin Mr. Irving Stein Mr. Gabriel J. Ferber Dr. Peter T. Ostrow Mr. Andrew Feldman Dr. Steven S. Stone Mrs. Stacy Fineberg Mr. George Pearlman Anonymous (36) Eugene Finton Victor Wagner Memorial Fund Mr. Eric Fox Mr. Paul D. Pearson Mrs. Ellen C. Freed Dr. Michael B. Weinberg Mrs. Deborah Franco Mr. Steven B. Perelstein Dr. Anthony Freundel Michael and Gina Weiner Mr. Sidney Friedman Mr. Milton Pitterman $100 – 499 Mr. & Mrs. Scott Friedman Mrs. Helen Weiser Mr. Gerald R. Gardner Mrs. Rosalind Podolsky Mrs. Sue S. Gardner Dr. & Mrs. Barry N. Winnick Robin Raphael & Alan Gellin Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth T. Polk Ms. Patricia L. Abeles Mr. and Mrs. Irving Gareleck Mr. and Mrs. Howard Wiseman Dr. Lisa Gelman-Koessler Mr. Paul Polokoff Mr. Philip B. Abramowitz Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Gellman Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. Wolpin Mrs. Charlotte Gendler Dr. Kevin Pranikoff David Reisman & Betsy Abramson Dr. Irwin Gelman Mrs. Heidi Yellen Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Gersh Mrs. Merle Pranikoff Mr. and Mrs. Arthur H. Ackerhalt Dan and Sharon Gerstman Steven L. Yellen Mrs. Zella M. Glickman Mr. Michael I. Pressman Mrs. Frima Ackerhalt Dr. A. Donald Gilden Mr. and Mrs. Bruce S. Zeftel Mr. Michael F. Godshaw Ms. Alissa Rabach Dr. Robert Ackerhalt Mrs. Marlene Glickman Mr. Arnold Zimmer Mrs. Claire Goldberg Mr. Val S. Racine Mr. Marc Alan Adel Mr. Neil A. Goldberg Mrs. Janice Goldstein Larry and Marcy Raines Mr. Bruce S. Ader Mr. Steven D. Goodwin Anoymous (34) Dr. Kenneth T. Goldstein Dr. Phillip Recoon Marc and Patti Adler Dr. Floyd A. Green Mr. Leslie M. Greenbaum Mrs. Susan E. Recoon Mrs. Rosalyn L. Algase Mr. John Greenberger Mrs. Esther M. Greene Mindy Robins-Reis & Shawn Reis Mr. Michael Alpern Sandra Gross Wolchok $500 – 999 Dr. Bianca Guttman-Weinstock Rabbi Sara Rich Mr. Robert E. Altman Ms. Janet Gunner Mr. Fred Holender Mrs. Rosalie Rosenband Mr. Richard Amdur Mr. Ralph L. Halpern Mr. Scott M. Allen Mrs. Lisa M. Hotung Sanford and Annette Rosenberg Mrs. Carol Amsterdam Donna Hirsh The Late Michael M. Babat Mr. Fred Isenerg Dr. Robert L. Rosenthal Dr. Alan Antfleck Fredric Hirsh Judy Babat Mrs. Jennifer Isenberg Mr. Laurence K. Rubin Mr. Irving Atlas Joseph Imberman The Hon. Rosalie Bailey & Mr. Thomas Jacobowitz Family Fund Mary Ruttenstein Memorial Fund Mrs. Janice Friedman Axelrod Mrs. Alice Isenberg Bailey Mrs. Beth Ann Joseph Mr. Lawrence Sadkin Mrs. Ruth S. Axlerod Mr. Andrew B. Isenberg Mrs. Suzanne J. Barney Mrs. Marlene A. Joseph Mrs. Michele Scheff Mrs. Julie Kingsley Mrs. Joanne Kahn Mrs. Joanne Berger Dr. Kenneth R. Kahn Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz Mrs. Gertude Bacol Dr. Todd and Josie Koch Dr. Gerald Berkowitz Mrs. Elaine B. Karlin Mr. Scott M. Schwartz Mr. Russell J. Baker Leon and Cynthia Komm Mrs. Ellen Berman Mr. Mark Karlin Dr. Stanley & Mrs. Diane Schwartz Ms. Tina Ball Mr. & Mrs. Cyril Koren Mr. Ernest Berman Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth A. Kellick Mr. and Mrs. Steven Schwartz Mr. Wolis Barback Dr. Karen L. Krutchick Mrs. Sheila J. Bernstein Mr. and Mrs. Larry Kerman Dr. Susan Schwartz Mr. Seymour Baren Mr. James Kushner Mrs. Lisa Bibas Mr. Louis S. Kimmel Dr. Morton H. Sclair Ms. Carol Barenholtz Ralph and Gail Kushner Mr. Robert Andrew Biltekoff Mr. Dan D. Kohane The Late Eugene M. Setel Dr. Judith Baron Stone Rion Kweller Mr. Neil Block Jill and Michael Komm Mr. Evan Shussett Mr. Sanford Beckman Dr. Jeffrey Lackner & Dr. Ann Marie Mrs. Stacey E. Block Mrs. Tova Kristal Mr. Sanford Silverberg Susan Beiter Carosella Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bloom Alon Kupferman Mrs. Patricia L. Simonson Dr. Stephen B. Bellus Mr. Irving Levy Mrs. Barbara Blotnik Jeffrey Lapides Mrs. Barbara S. Sitrin Mrs. Sheila Benatovich Mr. Allan M. Lewis Mr. Jeffrey Blum Mr. and Mrs. John M. Laping Dr. Michael D. Sitrin Mr. Sheldon B. Benatovich Dr. P. Jeffrey Lewis Tara and Kenneth Blumberg Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein Mr. Carl E. Snitzer Mrs. Lea Bendes Mr. and Mrs. Joel Lippes Mrs. Hadar Borden Mrs. Carol Lederman Mrs. Lynne C. Sommerstein Mr. Michael Bendes Mrs. Marian B. Lustig Dr. Martin Brecher Karen B. Leeds Ms. Stacey Spokane Mr. and Mrs. Michael Berg Mrs. Barbara E. Macks Mr. Charles M. Breinin Dr. K. Nicholas Leibovic Dr. and Mrs. Theodore Steinberg Mrs. Benis Berger Mr. Randy Margulis Mr. Harvey J. Breverman Dr. and Mrs. Richard Lepie Mr. Mitch Steinhorn Isabell and Richard Berger S. David Miller Mr. Samuel M. Bronsky Mrs. Cookie Levin Rachel Stenclik Robert Berger Mr. James I. Myers Mrs. Ronald Bronstein Mr. Kenneth Levin Scott Stenclik Dr. Roseanne Berger Dr. Jan M. Novak Mrs. Elaine Brothman *** Mr. Lawrence H. Levin Bernice Stern Rabbi & Mrs. Ori Bergman Mr. Michael Paskowitz Mr. Phillip Brothman Mrs. Merredith Levin Mr. Gary Stromberg Mr. Robert J. Berkman Mr. Glenn Pincus Mr. Marc Brown & Dr. Shira Brown Mrs. Faye S. Levy Dr. Janice R. Sufrin Mrs. Mary H. Berlow Mrs. Deborah Pivarsi Mr. David Buch Mr. Mitchell Levy Mrs. Lori Teibel Mr. Stephen L. Berman M. Steven Piver, MD Mrs. Audre Bunis Mr. Steven B. Levy Mr. Richard Teibel Mr. and Mrs. Raymond S. Bernhardt, Jr. Mr. Harvey Podolsky Mr. Michael C. Burwick Mr. and Mrs. Leonard G. London miriam treger-honig & Eli Honig Mrs. Ellen R. Bernstein Dr. Stephen B. Pollack David Capretto Ms. Nina Lukin Mrs. Lillian C. Ungerleider Mr. Patrick A. Bielecki Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Polokoff Mrs. Judith E. Carrel Mr. Sheldon Aaron Macks Mrs. Kenneth E. Wagner Ms. Dara Biltekoff Ordon Mr. Louis Pozarny Mr. and Mrs. Edward M. Case Mrs. Deborah Poisson Margulis Mrs. Cookie Weil Keith and Dawn Birzon Mrs. Rolene Pozarny Dr. Stephen R. Cavior Mr. and Mrs. Morton J. Merowitz Mrs. Margit Weinmann Mr. Lincoln Blaisdell Dr. Shalom Press Ms. Debra L. Chernoff Mr. Jay Mesnekoff Mr. Erwin Weinstein Mrs. Annette Blanchard Mrs. Zhanna Racine Mrs. Evelyn Cohen Mr. Paul J. Michaels Mrs. Evelyn Weinstein Elizabeth Blazey-Pennel Mrs. Marge Rein Mr. Hyman Cohen Dr. Igor Mikityansky Iris and Ken Weinstein Mary Roseberry & Isadore Blechman Daniel & Gina Roblin Dr. Richard A. Cohen Dr. Robert & Mrs. Linda Milch Dr. Arie Weinstock Mrs. Sharla Bleichfeld Hon. Lisa Bloch Rodwin Mr. Allan J. Cooper Mrs. Lori Morrison Mort and Ellen Weintraub Mr. Michael M. Blinkoff Mr. Jay N. Rosenthal Dr. Iris Danziger Dr. Robert Moskowitz Mrs. Sheila J. Weisman Mrs. Joyce Block Dr. Ronald J. Sadler Mrs. Leslie Day Hon. Brenda Freedman & Mr. Martin Mrs. Linda C. Weiss Dr. Melvin G. Block Schillinger Family Joseph N. Desmon Memorial Fund Mutka Mrs. Sylvia Weiss Sandra A. Block Mr. and Mrs. Scott Saperston Mr. Robert A. Doren Dr. Bennett Myers Mr. Ronald Willig Dr. Gale Burstein & Dr. Peter Bloom February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 41 2018 Honor Roll of Donors
Mr. Edward S. Bloomberg Mr. Michael Essrow Mr. Joseph L. Glickman Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kayton Mrs. Rachelle Marks Mrs. Lauren Bloomberg Dr. Murray J. Ettinger Mrs. Halli Glina Martin and Shelly Kerker Joanne M. Marquisee Mr. David I. Blum Mrs. Pepy Ettinger Mrs. Sylvia G. Gold Ms. Shiri Kester Ms. Linda Marsh Mrs. Eva Blum Judith and Raymond Fales Mrs. Sue Goldberg Mrs. Edna Kielar Mrs. Sheryl Martin Mrs. Leah Blum Mr. and Mrs. Herbert R. Falk Dr. Shepard Goldberg Mrs. Donna M. Klein Mrs. Lenore Marx Mrs. Maxine R. Bommer Dr. Alexander Farkash Mr. and Mrs. Richard S. Goldman Mr. Mark S. Klein Dr. Irving J. Massey Mrs. Doris Bookbinder Ms. Judy Feldman Dr. Scott M. Goldman Mrs. Renee Klein Mr. and Mrs. Ronald L. Meer Mrs. Marcia Brett Mr. Marwin L. Feldman Ms. Amy Goldstein Mr. Robert Jay Klein Mrs. Karen Meltser Mr. Harold B. Brody Mrs. Zelda H. Feldman Mr. Kenneth Goldstein Mrs. Lauren Klenosky Dr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Merrick Mr. Irving Brody Mrs. Brenda Feldstein Mr. Robert M. Goldstein Mr. Lynn Alan Konovitz Mrs. Helene W. Mesch Dr. Philip Brogadir Mr. Eric Feldstein Dr. Gail R. Goodman Mrs. Paula Kopstick-Ames Mrs. Rebecca Mesnekoff Mrs. Jill Bronsky Mr. Alan Feller Mrs. Muriel M. Goodman Dr. Sara Koritz Mr. and Mrs. Jack Meyers Mrs. Judy Brothman Mrs. Andrea S. Ferber Mr. Kenneth Graber Mr. Ronald A. Korman Mr. Jerome Michaels Mrs. Freda Brummer Edward J. Fine, M.D. Mrs. Cheryl Grashow Mrs. Betty F. Korn Mrs. Carri Milch Mrs. Gail E. Buch Mr. Paul Fineberg Mr. David Grayck Ms. Ellen Kossoff Mr. Philip A. Milch Mr. Joseph Buch Dr. Marina and Dr. Mark Finkelstein Dr. & Mrs. Alex Green Mrs. Sharon D. Kostiner Dr. Joni Milgram-Luterman Mrs. Pamela J. Buehler Dr. Jeremy D. Finn Dr. Fred Greenberg Dr. Chana R. Kotzin Mr. Daniel Mink Dr. Ruthellen Bunis Mr. & Mrs. Willard A. Finton Dr. Saul P. Greenfield Mrs. Lisa Pawlowski Hon. Joseph D. Mintz Miss Hynda Burdman Sherry Chase & Ben Fitt Ms. Karen M. Greenspan Ms. Mara Koven-Gellman The Late Renee Mintz Dr. Arlene Burrows Mrs. Ruth Fleming Mrs. Laurie S. Greenspan Dr. Kenneth A. Krackow Mrs. Naomi K. Mintzer Dr. Ronald Burrows Dr. and Mrs. Steven Fliesler Mr. and Mrs. Ilya Grinberg Mrs. Marcia Kraden Dr. Gordon Mittleman Mrs. Roberta Burstein-Markel Mr. Robert Florian Mr. Harvey J. Gross Dr. Joseph Krasner Mr. Robert Louis Monin Mr. Howard Cadmus Bonnie and William Fosbury Mrs. Dolores Grossman Mr. Robert Krohn Mrs. Janeen Morris Mr. and Mrs. Alan Camhi Ms. Brenda Fox Mr. Ron Grossman Ms. Joan M. Kronman Mrs. Selma Morris Mr. Jed L. Carrol Mr. Jordan Fox Mrs. Jessica Grubea Jennifer Stein Kumble Mr. Tom Moscato Mrs. Marnie Cerrato Mr. Paul Fox Rabbi Moshe Gurary Dr. Sharon Kuritzky Stephen Moscov Mr. Edward L. Chassin Mrs. Florence Fradin Mr. Jerry Haier Ms. Francine V. Kurtz Mr. and Mrs. Reuven Moser Dr. Mark D. Chazen Mr. Victor P. Fradin Stanley, Rose, & Abe Halbreich Mr. Charles Kushner Mrs. Eileen Mullaney Mr. Amrom Chodos Cantor Arlene Frank Endowment Fund Mrs. Lillian M. Kushner Mrs. Toby W. Muskat Mrs. Diane Church Mrs. Bertha S. Frank Mrs. Harriet Halpern Mrs. Sharon Kushner Mr. and Mrs. Ira Nadel Dr. & Mrs. Christopher S. Cohen Mr. Alan E. Freedman Jordana Halpern Rabbi and Mrs. Laizer Labkovski Karen Simon Neiman Ann Burstein Cohen Mr. Bernard B. Freedman Ms. Judith P. Halpern Mrs. Ruth F. Lansing Mrs. Joan Nemirov Devon Cohen Mrs. Maryann Freedman Mrs. Janet Harris Dr. Richard S. Laub Rich and Lori Newberg Mrs. Gail R. Cohen Mr. Robert K. Freeland Dr. Linda Harris Mrs. Shoshanna Laub Julie and David Newberger Mr. Lawrence M. Cohen Mrs. Brandia Joy Freiman Dr. Cheryle Hart-Grossman Ms. Brenda Lehrman Mrs. Debra Ann Newman Mrs. Norma K. Cohen Mr. David Freiman Mr. Barry Heitner Mr. Dan Lenard Mr. and Mrs. Jerauld M. Nimelman Mr. Robert B. Cohen Rabbi Jonathan & Ginny Freirich Mrs. Robin Helak Dr. and Mrs. Alan J. Lesse Mrs. Sharon Nisengard Mr. Ronald S. Cohen Mrs. Shoshanna Zucker Freundel Mrs. Renee Herman Donald and Betsy Lesses Phil and Nicole Nobel Mr. Ronald Cohen Ms. Hannah Friedler Mrs. Ilene Herr Miss Holly L. Lesses Dr. and Mrs. Allyn Norman Congregation Shir Shalom Religious Mr. and Mrs. Danny Friedman Mr. Philip Herzbrun Mr. Paul T. Levine Mr. Ari Goldberg & Dr. Kelly Norman School Mrs. Fay Friedman Mrs. June Iris Hesch Mr. Louis Levinsky Mrs. Ruth Norman Dr. Michael J. Cowen Mrs. Iris Friedman Mr. Alan S. Hoffman Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Levy Mr. Gerald Nover Mrs. Leslie Cownie Dr. Irwin Friedman Mrs. Kathi B. Hoffman Dr. Sanford H. Levy Mrs. Susan D. Nusbaum Ms. Ellen J. Daly Mrs. Joan Friedman Mrs. Barbara G. Holender Mr. and Mrs. Martin Lewin Mrs. Amy O’Donnell Barbara and Errol Daniels Dr. Michael H. Frisch Dr. Jody Holmlund Michael and Dene Lewin Mr. and Mrs. Randall M. Odza Bruce and Teresa David Dr. Michael Mogerman & Carol Mr. Morris L. Horwitz Mrs. Dawn Lewis Ohr Temimim Day School Mr. Henry L. Davis Froehlich Mrs. Beverly Isenberg Dr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis Mrs. Barbara Oliver Mrs. Judith S. Davis Elliot Gabelnick Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Itzkowitz Mr. Harvey Lichtblau Dr. Benjamin D. Oppenheimer Mrs. Marlene DeCarlo Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Gale Mrs. Tracy Jacobowitz Dr. William Lin Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Oshlag Dr. Roy R. DeFrancis Mrs. Adele B. Gardner Mrs. Sharon Jacobs Mr. David G. Cohen & Dr. Norah Carolyn Parr Mr. Robert Dekoff Dr. and Mrs. Michael D. Garrick Mr. Stephen Fey & Ann Jacobs-Fey Lincoff Mrs. Frances L. Paskowitz Ms. Deborah Di Matteo David S. Garson, M.D. Mr. Symond Jacobson The Late Mrs. Celia S. Linder Dr. Mindy C. Paticoff-Weinman Cheryl Finton DiVita Dr. Samuel Gelfand Mr. Milton Joffe Mr. Steven Lippa & Dr. Ellen Lippa Ms. Jennifer Patrick Mrs. Laurie Dohn Dr. Alexander Gelfer & Dr. Frida Gelfer Mrs. Susan Joffe Joseph Lipsitz & Shannon Pass Mr. Paul Peck Mr. Richard Dopkins Ms. Linda E. Gellman Mrs. Maxine K. Johnson Mr. Art Lorbeer Mr. Joshua Pennel Mrs. Vicki P. Dorin Mr. Ryan L. Gellman & Dr. Wendy Dr. Larry E. Jones Mrs. Wendee G. Lorbeer Mr. Sanford R. Perlmuter Mr. Kenneth C. Drake Gellman Ms. Dianne Jordan Mr. Douglas Love Mr. Gregory P. Photiadis Mrs. Ruth Dressler Mr. Alan N. Gendler Mr. Lawrence D. Joseph Ms. Karin Lowenthal Ms. Ann L. Pikoff Mr. Edward Drozen Ms. Judith M. Gerber Mrs. Candace Kadish Mr. Samuel D. Magavern Mrs. Gail Pitterman Ms. Jean Dubow Gesher Religous School Mr. Dale S. Kadish Dr. Annette M. Magid Ms. Cheryl Pleskow Ms. Louise Dumain Andrew and Pamela Gewurz Mr. Michael Alan Kadish Dr. Hillel Magid Mrs. Janie Polk Mr. Richard M. Earne Ms. Roberta Giller Mrs. Kristie Kantor Mr. Larry Magil Mr. S. David Pollack Mrs. Amy Eglowstein Mrs. Barbara Ginsberg Mrs. Michelle B. Kaplan Mrs. Shirley Magil Mrs. Sharon Pollack Susan J. Elkin Mr. Herman J. Ginsburg Dr. Robert E. Kaplan Mrs. Agi L. Maisel The Hon. Mark C. Poloncarz, Mr. Bernard M. Engel Mr. Stephen R. Ginsburg Mrs. Sylvia N. Kaplan Mrs. Karen Maislin Erie Country Executive Mr. Joseph Enis Eric L. and Bonnie L. Glazer Diana and Hiram Kastenbaum Mrs. Shelly Malinowksi Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Portin Mrs. Nancy Enis Mrs. Margot V. Glick Mr. Jacob Katz Mr. H. Jeffrey Marcus Mr. Laurence Posses Jane Epstein Mr. Stephen M. Glick Ms. Marcy Katzman-Lenard Mr. Lance J. Mark Mrs. Janis Posterman Sinatra Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Epstein Ms. Shelly Glick Gryfe Dr. Sol Kaufman Barbara Markel Mr. Menahem Ari Potash 42 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 Mrs. Carla Press Mrs. Loretta Schechter Stacie & Nathan Stone Mr. Wayne R. Wolchok Ms. Marcia Bugyi Ms. Janet Presser Ms. Michelle Schechter-Monte Mr. Robert M. Stone Mrs. Michele Wolffe Dr. Susan Bundy-Myrow Mrs. Wendy Pressman Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Schechter Mrs. Joni Stovroff Hon. Penny Wolfgang Mrs. Marna Burstein Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Prince Susan Scheff Mr. Randy S. Strauss Dr. Richard E. Wolin Mrs. Sue Buyer Mr. Edward Purizhansky Mr. William Schierlitz Mrs. Sue Strauss Mr. & Mrs. Richard D. Yellen Mr. David A. Carr Dr. Polina Purizhansky Iris and Richard Schifeling Dr. and Mrs. Bruce J. Stringer Mrs. Colette Zappia Mr. James E. Carr Mr. Charles L. Raderman Mr. Ben Schiller Mr. and Mrs. Mark Stulmaker Mr. Arnold N. Zelman Mrs. Lauren D. Carr Hon. Michael Ranzenhofer Mrs. Marilyn Schillroth Mr. Seymour Suchman Mr. Arthur J. Ziller Mrs. Marcia F. Carr Mrs. Laurie Rashkin Mr. Irwin G. Schreiber Mrs. Steny Sudit Mr. Philip Zuccaro Mrs. Elizabeth Castro Dr. Shmuel Rashkin Ms. Melissa Schreiber Dr. and Mrs. Robert C. Sugarman Mr. Craig H. Zuckerman Ms. Fredricka Cheek The Hon. Edward Rath, III Mrs. Judith Tulchin Schroff Mr. Todd Sugarman Douglas and Jill Citron Mrs. Laura Recoon Mrs. Barbara C. Schulefand Ms. Judy A. Sunshine Anonymous (97) Mr. and Mrs. Warren E. Clark Mr. Mitchell Recoon Jennifer and Keith Schulefand Mr. Clifford M. Swadron Ms. Lynne A. Clarke Mrs. Robyn Recoon Mrs. Gertrude Schwab Mrs. Judith F. Swadron Mrs. Joy Cohan Ms. Bonnie Redder Lawrence M. Schwab Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Symons $1 - 99 Mr. Marvin M. Cohan Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reden Mr. Arthur Schwartz Dr. Emily Tall Mrs. Naomi Cohan Mrs. Judy Reich Mr. and Mrs. Edward Schwartz Mr. Ivan Tarnopoll Mrs. Barbara Abelson The Late Mrs. Audrey Cohen Mr. Justin Reich Mr. Matan Schwartz Edie Teibel Mrs. Connie Abramowitz Mrs. Lee Cohen Shari Jo Reich, Esq. Mrs. Sharon S. Schwartz Ms. Juliana Teibel Christina Akers-Dicenzo Mary and Harold L. Cohen Dr. Jonathan F. Reichert Mr. Richard B. Searns Mrs. Sally Teibel Mrs. Judith Alessi Mrs. Ruth L. Collins Mrs. Getelle B. Rein Dr. Carol C. Segal Temple Beth Zion Religious School Mr. Richard Alt Harold and Fay Cooperman Mr. Mark Richheimer Dr. Erwin M. Segal Mrs. Laura Ann Teplitsky Ms. Fran Altman Ms. Sarah Coutu Mr. Michael H. Rickert Mr. Steven M. Seller Mr. Michael D. Teplitsky Ms. Florina Altshiler Mrs. Adrienne Crandall The Late Deena Risman Mr. Donald Serota Mr. Sheldon Tetewsky Ms. Rachel R. Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Donald Crawford Ms. Maria Rizzo Mr. Daniel A. Serure Ms. Nancy Tobin Mrs. Michelle Angiers DeSpirt Foundation, Inc. Mrs. Janice M. Robins Rabbi Shmuel Shanowitz Mr. Robert M. Tocker Dr. Martin J. Anisman Mrs. Alice Dobozin Mr. Edward C. Robinson Dr. Caren Shapiro Mrs. Marilyn Toth Ms. Laurie Asher-Knipfing Mrs. Lilia Dolgopolskaia Mrs. Marla Robinson Dr. Stuart C. Shapiro Hon. Sharon and Bradlee W. Townsend Mrs. Gloria Ashton Miss Hannah Donner Mr. and Mrs. Richard F. Rockford Mrs. Michelle Sharf Mr. Meyer Tubin Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Augustnyek Mr. Ed Drantch Dr. Jeffrey B. Rockoff Mrs. Geraldine Shatkin Miss Susan B. Tunis Mrs. Renee Bagel Ms. Ellen Drexler The Late Mr. Herman Rodenberg Miss Dorothy E. Shaw Mrs. Norma Lee Unher Dr. Sophia Balderman Mr. Samuel Z. Dudek Mrs. Judi B. Romer Drs. Lawrence & Lucille Sherlick Dr. Joshua M. Usen Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bardach Mr. and Mrs. Michael Eisen Mr. Jonathan M. Rosen Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Sherman Dr. Sephra Vigna Mrs. Elaine Baren Mrs. Stacy Essex Mrs. Harriet Rosenfeld Mrs. Adrienne Shleser Mrs. Candace Vogel Yood Mr. Mac I. Barnett Mrs. Maureen Fagin Mr. Alan J. Rosenhoch & Dr. Gabrielle Mr. Harvey Shymanski Evelyn ad Samuel Wakshull Mrs. Barbara Barone Mr. Donald Falk Balderman David and Barbara Siegel Mrs. Susan Wallach Mr. Philip Beckman Mrs. Lillian Falk Dr. Alice M. Rosenthal Dr. Myron R. Siegel Mrs. Rus Devorah Wallen Mrs. Ethel Bellow Mr. Mark Farber Mrs. Marcia Rosenthal Mrs. Clareanne Silver Mr. George Wallenfels Mr. and Mrs. Alvin E. Bendes Ms. Myranne Feinstein Dr. Thomas C. Rosenthal Mr. Brett A. Silverberg Mrs. Lisa D. Wallenfels Mrs. Mary E. Bengart Mrs. Shirley Feld Mr. Leonard N. Rosokoff Sheryl Silverberg Mr. and Mrs. Jay H. Wallens Mr. David Benjamin Mrs. Barbara M. Feldman Mr. Joel Aaron Ross Mr. & Mrs. Art Sitcov Hon. Raymond W. Walter Mrs. Ruth Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Edwin R. Feldman Mrs. Sheila Ross Sisterhood of Congregation Shir Mr. David Wasserman Mr. Nissan Berg Mr. Daniel Ferber Dr. Brian D. Rothschild Shalom Mrs. Laura Watts Sommer The Hon. Jacqui Berger Mrs. Tina Ferber Mrs. Florine Rothschild Mr. and Mrs. Larry J. Skerker Dr. Kenneth Weiner Ms. Ida Berzon Dr. Gideon Fersztman Dr. Morton Rothstein Mr. George J. Skiba, Jr. Mr. Norman C. Weingarten Mr. Bruce Biltekoff Mrs. Tammy Fine Mrs. Adrienne J. Rothstein-Grace Max and Elizabeth Sloan Dr. David M. Weinman Mr. Jacob Biltekoff Mrs. Alva Finkelstein Inna Rozov-Ung Mr. and Mrs. Marc Slonim Dr. Alan G. Weinstein Mrs. Lily Bink Ms. Shelley Fitt Mrs. Barbara Rubin Dr. Bruce M. Small Mrs. Barbara Weinstein Mrs. Sandra Bisesi Kathryn M. Foti-Crawford Mr. Lawrence M. Rubin Dr. Teresa Jen Small Hon. Barry A. Weinstein Ms. Susan Black Dr. Eric J. Frank Mrs. Mary Ellen Rubin Mrs. Linda K. Snitzer Mr. Barry E. Weinstein Ms. Lois R. Blaustein Mr. Howard B. Frank Dr. Stuart H. Rubin Mrs. Anita Snyder Mr. Bernhard Weinstein Mr. and Mrs. Alex Blitshteyn Ms. Marilyn Frappa Mrs. Vickie Rubin Mrs. Clarice W. Speier Mrs. Lois Weinstein Mrs. Grace Bluestone Mr. Donald V. Freedman Dr. Eli Ruckenstein Dr. Robert Spiegler Mrs. Sandra H. Weinstein Mr. Aaron Blum Mr. & Mrs. Yaakov Fried Mrs. Velina Ruckenstein Doug and Ashley St. Cyr Dr. Aaron Weisbrot Mrs. Laurie Bluman Mrs. Cynthia Friedes Ms. Shellie Rutstein Mr. Harold Star Mrs. Wendy Weisbrot Mrs. Lana Blustein Mrs. Beatrice Friedman Max, Kalman & Rose Ruttenstein Mr. and Mrs. David Stark Mrs. Elinor Weiss Ms. Hope Bongiorno Ms. Danielle Friedman Memorial Fund Mrs. Annette Stein Dr. and Mrs. Everett Weiss Mrs. Louise Boyar Mr. Jeff Gardner Ms. Nadine J. Ryback Mrs. Beth Steinberg Mr. Joel H. Weiss Mr. and Mrs. Anthony J. Breckner Mr. Henry D. Gartner Mrs. Barbara Sadkin Mr. Richard A. Steinberg Mr. and Mrs. Alan Weissman Mrs. Caryl Brent Mr. and Mrs. Alan Geldin Mrs. Beatrice Saffer Mr. David Stemerman Joan A. Weissman Mrs. Deborah Breverman Ms. Shirley Giallombardo Mr. Harvey Sanders Mrs. Susan L. Stemerman Dr. Barbara Weitner-Lin Mr. Laurence Brickman Mr. Daniel M. Glaser Ms. Ina Sanders Mr. Gary Sterman Mrs. Laura Wexler Mr. Jeffrey Brodsky Mrs. Thelma Glaser The Hon. & Mrs. Steven Sanders Mr. James Sterman Mr. Richard L. Wexler Ms. Lori Brodsky Ms. Ida Goeckel Mrs. Jill K. Sandler Mrs. Joan B. Stern Mrs. Sharon Wexler Mrs. Elaine Brody Mr. Charlie Goldman Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Sands Mrs. Judi Stern Ms. Deborah L. Williams Mrs. Barbara Brogadir Mr. Glenn Goldman Mr. Howard T. Saperston, Jr. Mr. Michael Stern Lucille Wisbaum Mr. and Mrs. Philip Bronstein Mrs. Elaine Goldstein Ms. Melinda R. Saran Mr. Ernest Sternberg Ms. Marci Wiseman Mr. Matthew Brooks Mr. Martin Goldstein Mrs. Amy Schaefer Samuel Sternberg Memorial Fund Mrs. Ronna Wiseman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brown Ms. Karen Goodman Mrs. Kimberly Schechter Ms. Carol Steuernagel Mr. Steven G. Wiseman The Hon. Deborah Bruch Bucki Anna Gossin February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 43 2018 Honor Roll of Donors
Mrs. Donna S. Green Mr. Nelson Korus Dr. David L. Myrow Mr. & Mrs. Walter Peter Seegert Mrs. Adele Weinstein Mrs. Brocha Leah Greenberg Mr. Sam Korus Mr. Fred S. Nadel Dr. Marla Segol Mr. Jack Weinstein Mrs. Edith Greenberg Mr. Leonid Kramer Ms. Nancy Nathan Mr. Richard Sellers Mr. Michael Weinstein Mrs. Joyce S. Greenberg Mrs. Donna Kranitz Ann and Greg Neumann Mrs. Karla Serapiglia Mr. and Mrs. Robert Weinstein Levi and Rivky Greenberg Marilynn Kregal Ms. Monica Neuwirt Mrs. Ida Serure Mrs. Sara Weinstein Mrs. Marion Greenberg Mrs. Edith Schaefer Newman Ms. Barbara Krigstin Mrs. Rochel Shanowitz Dr. Sam Weintraub Mrs. Andrea Griebner Morgan J. Kristal Mrs. Elaine Nisberg Mr. and Mrs. Gary Shapiro Ms. Wendy J. Weisberg Dr. Regina Grol Ms. Lynette Krohn Gerald and Lorraine Noznisky Ms. Marsha E. Shapiro Mr. and Mrs. Bernard A. Weisbond Ms. Hanna Grol-Prokopczyk Mr. Jan A. Kublitz Ms. Judith Olin Mrs. Sondra Shapiro Ms. Janet Gross Mrs. Joan Kumor One Stop Jewish Buffalo Foundation Mr. Grigory Shershnevsky Dr. Steven D. Weiss Ms. Jesse Grossman Dr. Sara Kunkes Ms. Liliia Owcharenko Mrs. Raisa Shershnevsky Mr. Ellis Werbow Rabbi and Mrs. Avrohom Gurary Mr. Melvin Kurtz Ms. Ellen Goldberg Palmer Mrs. Cecile E. Shmookler Mrs. Elaine Werner Mr. Laurent Haccoun Mrs. Honi Kurzeja Ms. Laurie Pastena Mr. Ronald Shubert Ms. Elisabeth Weston Mr. Norman Halberstadt Mrs. Joan Kwiatkowski Mrs. Norma Pearlman Ms. Lynne M. Shuster Mrs. Elinor Wexler Dr. Marc Halfon Mrs. Denise Landau Mrs. Jennifer Perelstein Mr. Bernard Siegel Ms. Diana Wilkins Mrs. Robin Hall Mr. Stewart Landau Mrs. Fanesta Perlstein Mrs. Phyllis Dubbs Sigel Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Willer Dr. Jill E. Hamilton Mr. Thomas S. Lansing Amie Pistrin-Faust Mrs. Carol Silverman Richard Steinberg & Ann Williams Hugh Hartzberg Ms. Sandy Lapham Rabbi Allen Podet Mr. Michael L. Simmons, Jr. Dr. Gail R. Wilsky Mrs. Dorothy Hartzburg Margo Lapides Jennie Pohl Mrs. Marlene Simon Mr. Alan Wishnoff Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Hauck Mrs. Susan Jesella Mrs. Linda P. Pohl Mr. Randy Simonson Mr. Michael Wohl Ms. Reine Hauser Mrs. Ashirah Lazarus-Klein Mr. Stuart M. Pohl Mrs. Sue Siva Mrs. Susan Wojcik Mr. Robert Hausman Mrs. Tillie Lazerson Mrs. Sylvia M. Polakov Mr. Leonard D. Skrill Dr. Howard R. Wolf Mr. Scott W. Heller Mrs. Fay Broder Leader Mr. Steven Pollack Mr. and Mrs. Irving Slater Mrs. Judy Henn Prof Charles & Dr. Renata Lefcourt The Late Mrs. Rhoda Portin Clarice Snitzer Mrs. Ronda Wolfberg Mr. Steven Herzbrun Miss Linda Levin Esther Posmantur Mrs. Debra Soman Mr. Mark Wolfson Ms. Donna Hessler Ms. Ellen Levine Mrs. Jackie Povitz Mr. Sheldon S. Soman Mrs. Susan Wolfson Mrs. Debra Hilfstein Mrs. Ilene R. Levine Ms. Dori Lynn Powell Dr. Ronald Somogyi Mr. Logan Woodard Mrs. Phyllis Hochberg Dr. Marcia J. Levine Danielle Prester Mrs. Patricia Spector Mrs. Marcia Wright Mrs. Marilyn A. Hochfield Ms. Danise Levine-Winter Mrs. Melania Puius Mrs. Carol W. Spiegler Mark Yablin Mrs. Hope Hoetzer-Cook Mrs. Donna Levy Dr. and Mrs. Michael Ram Dr. Robert S. Stall Mrs. Hynda Zabel Ms. Linda R. Hoffman Ms. Gail Lewis Mrs. Susan Ranzenhofer Mrs. Robin G. Stall Mr. Nathan Zimmerman Beverly Holtz Mr. Louis Linsky Mrs. D. Donna Raphael Ms. Linda Stein Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ziolkowiski Mr. and Mrs. Harvey A. Horowitz Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Loewenstein Mrs. Sally Raskin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Steinacher Mr. and Mrs. Neil Zions Mr. Avram Howard Rabbi & Mrs. Yehuda Lorber Mrs. Bella Redmin Mr. Russell P. Steinberg Mrs. Erika Zyskind Mrs. Hillary Hurwitz Miss Joan E. Loring Mr. and Mrs. Edward Reich Mr. Stephen Steinberg Mr. Bernard Zysman Mrs. Judy Hurwitz Ms. Gloria Lucker Mr. Joel Reiner Mr. James M. Steinhorn Mr. Stephen Hurwitz Mrs. Sandra J. Ludwig Mr. and Mrs. Andrei Reinhorn Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Stern Mrs. Sharon Zysman Mrs. Zana S. Hyman Ms. Benita Lupu Mr. Gary P. Richmond Mrs. Lorraine Stern Dr. Stephen L. Jacobson Mrs. Amy Lyons Mr. Wayne Robins Mr. Stephen Stern Anonymous (35) Mrs. Ann Januszkiewicz Mrs. Deborah Mahaney Mrs. Muriel Robinson Mrs. Cindy E. Stover Mrs. Suzanne Kahn Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Mahaney Ms. Susan Ronald Mrs. Annette Strauss Dr. Seth Kaiser Dr. Clifford R. Mahler Mrs. Brenda Rosen Mrs. Bernadine Strauss Mr. and Mrs. Yosef Kalfa Dr. Philip I. Malnikof Dr. Nancy J. Rosenbloom Mrs. Inge Strauss A grateful Mr. Barry H. Kantrowitz Mr. and Mrs. David Manny Dr. Jerold C. Rosenfeld Mrs. Penny Strauss Mrs. Marilyn Kaplan Mrs. Carol Marcus Mr. David Rosenhoch Nathan Sull Mr. Stephen W. Kaprow Ms. Jacqueline Marcus Alan Ruttenberg and Lori Rosenthal Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Symons Mrs. Deana Kardaman Ms. Jane Paula Marinsky Ms. Rachel Roth Mr. Robert Syracuse Thank Mr. Harvey Kardaman Mrs. Jackie Smuckler Matheny Mrs. Carol Roy Mrs. Marion Tasman Mr. Joseph C. Karg Mr. Joshua Feinstein & Ms. Patricia Steven and Susan Rubinstein Mr. Richard Teplitsky Ms. Eileen Katz Mazon Mrs. Andrea Sachar-Luttinger Mrs. Jacqueline Thompson You Ms. Marlene Katzel Mr. Jim McCabe Mrs. Stacey Santora Mrs. Wende Tragash Mrs. Pearl Keller Mrs. Esther Melzer Mrs. Marcia Saran Mr. and Mrs. Gary Treger To everyone who made Mrs. Miriam Kelley Dr. Larisa Meras Dr. Marie I. Saroff Mr. and Mrs. Laurence M. Trott a gift to Mrs. Lucy Kogler Kempner Ms. Cheryl Mesch Nathan Sauer Mr. and Mrs. Clark Trow Deborah and Charles Kenyon Mr. Arthur Mesches Mrs. Ann M. Sawusch Ms. Amy E. Troy The 2018 Campaign Mrs. Carolyn Kershanbaum Mrs. Marcia Mesches Mrs. Dorothy Schaktman Mr. Henry Ullman for Jewish Buffalo. Mr. Gerald Kershanbaum Mrs. Liz Messer Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Scharf Dr. Lori Ullman Mrs. Helene G. Kershner Mrs. Jean C. Messinger Mrs. Heidi B. Schatz Mrs. Lynn Ullman Mrs. Flora Khinkis Mrs. Marie Meyers Ina & Herb Scheer Mrs. Doris E. Usen Mrs. Ruth G. Kirstein Mrs. Phoebe Meyers Rabbi Adam Scheldt Mrs. Marcia Valente Mrs. Arlene Kissin Mrs. Betty Miller Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Schenkler Ms. Sophia Veffer Mr. Howard Kleiman Mr. and Mrs. Steven Miller Ms. Carol Schmeidler Mrs. Arlene Vogel Your generous donations Mrs. Lynn W. Klein Mrs. Melva A. Mogerman Mr. Barry Schonfeld Larry and Jill Vogel Help build a more vibrant Mr. and Mrs. Alex Kleyman Ms. Gail A. Morgan Mrs. Noreen Schreiber Mr. Louis Wallen Ms. Anna E. Kleyman Mr. and Mrs. Izador Muchnik Mr. Robert A. Schwartz Mr. Howard J. Walter And caring Jewish Buffalo. The Late Mr. Parker Komm Rabbi and Mrs. Menachem Munitz Mrs. Ruth L. Schwartz Ms. Elissa Waykoff Mrs. Harriet Konovitz Mr. & Mrs. Yisroel Meir Munitz Mrs. Mona Schwartzberg Sarah Waymire Mrs. Jacqueline Korchowsky Rabbi and Mrs. Yosef Munitz Ms. Connie Schweitzer Mr. and Mrs. Jack Weinfurtner Mrs. Joan Korus Mrs. Lori Mylchreest Mrs. Penny W. Sclair Lillian Weinmann 44 www.buffalojewishfederation.org | February 2019 IN LOVING MEMORY “Uncle Wayne” Wisbaum Taught Lessons Deena Risman in Life and Joy By Kenneth Polk As I grew into adulthood, an example for me. I want I started calling my relatives to thank him for being a by their first name. About 20 mensch and for always being years ago, I recall my uncle, someone this community Wayne Wisbaum, pulling me could rely on. But most aside. “Less than one percent,” importantly, I want to thank Deena Risman, former editor of Federation my uncle told me. As I leaned him for being my mentor. News and Public Relations Director of the Buffalo in to better understand him, There is no doubt that his Jewish Federation for 18 years, passed away my uncle proceeded by saying, legacy and impact that many November 19, 2018 in her home in Buffalo. “80% of the people in this in the WNY community felt During her tenure at Federation, she produced world call me ‘Mr. Wisbaum.’ are more personal for me. marketing materials for the former United Jewish Maybe another 20% call me After all, while you knew him Fund Campaign, oversaw Shalom Buffalo and the ‘Wayne.’ You, on the other as ‘Mr. Wisbaum’ or maybe Disabled Israeli Vets program for several years, and hand, are less than one called him by first name, to co-staffed Yom Hashoah and Yom Ha’atzmaut with percent of those who can call me he was and always will be the Jewish Center and Holocaust Resource Center. me ‘uncle.’ Please do that.” ‘Uncle Wayne.’ She was known to everyone as the Federation Rest in peace, Uncle Wayne. Wayne Wisbaum passed photographer, documented every important event, My uncle, Wayne D. Wisbaum, away December 30, 2018 in and snapped great shots at Super Sunday over the was a well-known member of Buffalo, New York. Kenneth years. A memorial service will be held in the spring. the Buffalo community. He Polk is his nephew. This May her memory be for a blessing. was a prominent attorney with piece appeared in the “My an indefatigable work ethic. View” Column of The Buffalo Each month we will feature a eulogy of a member of He was respected, smart, and News January 9, 2019. It is our own community who has recently died. Please contact philanthropic – giving both his reprinted with permission Ellen Goldstein at [email protected] if you would llike to share your words. time and his money to those in thousands of committee and board meetings, from the author. need. Whether it was a Jewish even while in his early 80s. His hard work was not organization or another non- just relegated to his professional life, but as an profit, he left quite a legacy. involved member of the community. Giving tirelessly to so many Third, and probably most important, enjoy In Remembrance organizations for over 60 years, the fruits of your labor. My uncle traveled the he was recognized for his efforts world and loved spending time with his family. The following people in our community passed away during the period and won so many awards that He was very proud of his three daughters and from December 12, 2018 - January 21, 2019.* May their memories I’ve lost count. What I do know was happiest when they came home to visit. forever be a blessing, and may their loved ones be comforted among is that, as a father figure and He loved playing golf with his sons in law and the mourners of Zion. mentor, he taught me many grandchildren. He also loved eating good food, important life lessons. always finishing meals with an ice cream sundae! First, love where you live. He certainly lived life to its fullest and embodied Samuel Balderman Gloria Kurland Having grown up in Niagara Falls the “work hard, play hard” mentality. Helen Bergman before attending Cornell for his As hard as he worked, Sundays were for football. Carol Lederman undergraduate degree and then My uncle loved the Buffalo Bills, having been a Ruth Harris Thomas Markel Harvard Law School, my uncle season ticket holder for 40 years. He had a funny Schechter Collins never forgot where he came ritual of leaving his house in Amherst at 12:25, Rhoda Portin from. He was well grounded boasting that he had never missed a 1:00pm Anna Gelfer and his love for his hometown kickoff. I had the joy of being his guest at the AFC Doris Roth never diminished. He truly Championship game vs. the Raiders in 1991 when Eric Gewurz hoped that Niagara Falls would the Bills would begin their incredible journey of Janet Herman Joel Rubin one day have a similar revival to making four straight Super Bowls. What stands what downtown Buffalo is going out about that game is not that the Bills were Parker Komm Burton Sarles through right now. He also winning 41-3 at halftime but that my uncle never wanted to move. He loved missed the first half because of a delayed flight Harriet Konovitz Bernard Schiffman Buffalo through and through. home from New York City. I’ll never forget the Second, work hard. He joy on his face when he realized the Bills would Ruth Korn Wayne Wisbaum despised the word retirement finally be going to the Super Bowl, even though he and loved practicing law. He missed that first half dominance! Looking back, it went to bed late and rose early, was that moment that I cherished the most with *If we inadvertently missed printing the listing of your loved one, please saying all he needed was a my uncle. write to [email protected]. and we will include the name good five hours of sleep! He I want to thank Uncle Wayne for teaching me next month. was always busy and attended these life lessons. I want to thank him for setting February 2019 | www.buffalojewishfederation.org 45