Published by the Jewish Community of Louisville, Inc. www.jewishlouisville.org
INSIDE Berg mosaic rededicated STORY ON PG. 2 Klempner ends term STORY ON PG. 3
Communit■ ■ y FRIDAY VOL. 42, NO. 9 29 SIVAN 5777 JUNE 23, 2017 A night to honor Yael Dayan – daughter of Moshe Dayan – to speak here By Lee Chottiner Interim Editor Yael Dayan, author, journalist activ- ist, and the daughter of the late Israe- li army general and defense minister, Moshe Dayan, is coming to Louisville. Dayan who also served in the Knes- set, will speak at The Temple during the Shabbat service on Friday, Septem- ber 15, and will be part of the oneg that follows. The Temple and the Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence are spon- soring her visit. Dayan, 78, will be in the country to promote her latest book, Tran- sitions, an auto- biography whose Devon Oser (left) seen here with Becky Swansburg, urged Jewish Louisville to engage its young and find ways to turn their ideas into action. (photo by William Beasley) liner notes were written by pub- lic figures no less Young leadership shines at 2017 Annual Awards Meeting than Amos Oz By Lee Chottiner nized Jewish Louisvillians from across those plans into action. and the late Shi- Interim Editor the spectrum – senior citizens enriching “Engage individuals at their level,” the mon Peres. Yael Dayan the lives of others, volunteers perform- current YAD chair said. “Each of us has “She is a hero,” Becky Swansburg brought an encour- ing valuable services to the Federation, a special talent. Find out what they’re Rabbi David Ariel-Joel said. “Not only aging message to the 2017 JCL Annual teens who are just now discovering how passionate about and incorporate it into a military hero, she was a high officer Awards Meeting. rewarding service to the Jewish commu- the community.” in the army. She is a true Israeli hero As she took the podium to introduce nity can be. Shapiro, a JCRC board member, em- and icon; she fought all her life for Isra- two of the three recipients of the young But the young leadership awards of- braced the idea of being a future Jewish el to be the place it ought to be. leadership awards that evening, she not- fered the chance to showcase Jewish leader, saying people he respected saw “She fought for LGBTQ rights before ed that all three are relative newcomers Louisvillians who could be guiding the him as one. And Woods, who brought it was popular to do so,” Ariel-Joel con- to Louisville; none were born and raised fortunes of the community before very the MOMentum trips to Israel for young tinued. “She fought for women rights, here. long. mothers to Louisville, said she was grat- for the freedom of religion and free- The message from Swansburg, herself This year’s young leadership award ified to help these women lead more dom from religion in Israel, including a young Jewish leader, was clear: Jewish recipients were Corey Shapiro (Julie E. meaningful Jewish lives. the freedom to go to the beach on Yom Louisville is vibrant enough to attract Linker Community Relations Young The young adult recipients joined Kippur in a bikini.” young people from around the country Leadership Award), Devon Oser (Joseph the rest of this year’s honorees, includ- Born in 1939 in Nahalal, a co-oper- – all bringing with them new ideas and J. Kaplan Young Leadership Award), ing the winner of the most prestigious ative village, in Israel, to Ruth and the fresh energy. and Dara Woods (Lewis W. Cole Memo- award, Dr. Muhammad Babar Cheema, late General Moshe Dayan, Yael Dayan The community need not only look rial Young Leadership Award). (Blanche B. Ottenheimer Award). quite literally grew up with her coun- from within to tap its next generation of Oser used her time at the mic to en- “Those of you who know me, try. leaders. courage leaders to help young people know that I am passionate about the See DAYAN on page 19 The June 8 Awards Meeting recog- with new ideas and to find ways to put See YOUNG LEADERSon page 19
Louisville’s Andrea Glazer will blog from 2017 Maccabiah Games By Lee Chottiner Interim Editor POSTAGE KENTUCKY LOUISVILLE Andrea Glazer, the Louisville native PERIODICALS and equestrian who will compete for Team USA next month at the 20th Mac- cabiah Games in Israel, will be doing more than vying for a medal while she’s there. Glazer, 22, who will compete in the show jumping event, will also blog about her experiences during the Games, and Community will carry those posts on its social media. The Maccabiah Games, also known as the Jewish Olympics, will run from July 4-18. About 10,000 athletes representing 80 countries are expected to compete. But there’s more than sports. Mac- cabiah also will celebrate 50 years of a reunified Jerusalem during its opening ceremony at Teddy Stadium. A Kabbalat Andrea Glazer will compete in show jumping during the Maccabiah Games in Israel. (photo by Alex Banks) See GLAZER on page 19 2 Community Y JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 SHOWCASE Berg mosaic depicting Holocaust, Israel’s birth rededicated at JCL Annual Meeting
By Lee Chottiner what one human can do to another.” Interim Editor Wagner said a curtain was installed around the mosaic in the ‘90s, which Tell your children of it and let your chil- concealed the mural when drawn. dren tell their children. But Karen Berg said the mural should —Joel 1:3 be seen by young and old alike. “It’s too important of a story not to Dr. Harold Berg had a favorite saying: teach our children,” she said. “That’s “Life is short, but art is long.” what it was meant to do; that’s what we In other words, long after the artist are meant to do. If we abdicate that re- passes away, his art, and its messages, sponsibility, then we’re just allowing his- live on. tory to repeat itself.” So it’s no wonder why Berg, an ardent Becky Swansburg, a JCL board mem- Zionist, agreed to create a mosaic mural ber, said she recalled being a child and depicting the horrors of the Holocaust looking at the mural with a mixture of and the elation of the birth of Israel – “fear and curiosity.” the same mural that hangs today in the Berg came by his interest in mosaics Linker Auditorium of The J. by chance. “It starts in a terrible place, but it ends “The story goes he was visiting Mex- with the creation of the State of Israel,” ico with my mother (Pearl) and anoth- said Karen Berg, daughter of the late er couple,” daughter Karen recalled. surgeon and artist. “The Jewish identity “They were having lunch outside on a was not destroyed; it was not lost.” patio overlooking a mosaic factory. He The 48-year-old work of art, Berg’s The Harold Berg mosaic, which shows the sweep of 20th century Jewish history from the Holocaust to the birth of thought, ‘Wow! That looks interesting,’ largest, was rededicated at the JCL An- Israel, was rededicated the June 8 Annual Meeting. (photo by William Beasley) and went down there and bought some nual Awards Meeting, Thursday, June 8. A new plaque describing the mural, the JCC board OK’d the project. Berg ac- ture. titled “Darkness to Light,” was affixed cepted, donating his time and materials. Finally, the mural depicts Israeli inde- next to the mural. Berg “became so enthusiastic over the pendence through scenes of a soldier’s “My father considered it his most im- idea that he described it most effectively defending the country from a watch portant project,” Karen Berg said at the to the attention of the JCC board of di- tower, another planting a tree in the rededication ceremony, “not because of rectors, which resulted in its placement ground, and people dancing about a me- its size, but because of its message.” on the wall where it will be in constant norah – grapevines in the foreground, JCL President and CEO Sara Klein sight of the public,” the Kentucky Jewish Jerusalem as a backdrop. Wagner said it was time to rededicate Post and Opinion reported at the time. The mural was unveiled two years the mosaic, and the story it tells, be- The mural actually depicts an artistic after Israel liberated the Old City of Je- cause the JCL stands for respect, “and transition from darkness to light: First, rusalem in the Six-Day War, once again we know what hatred can do.” it shows emaciated victims of the Nazi freeing Jews to worship at the Western Formally unveiled on Oct. 12, 1969, death camps, then the steamer Exodus, Wall. the mural was the brainchild Joseph J. made famous by Leon Uris’ novel of the Karen Berg, whose daughter, Rachael Kaplan, then president of the JCC. Ka- same title, as it reaches Palestine, the Pass, is a rabbinic student in New York, plan asked Berg to make the mural after silhouette of a woman looking to the fu- said the artwork exhorts Jews of all gen- erations “to be witnesses and to make sure your eyes are not closed to the les- sons of history.” Joe Rigsby, an art teacher at the JCC, assisted Berg in creating the 25-foot- Karen Berg describes her father’s mural to the audi- long, 15-foot-high wall sculpture – made ence. (photo by William Beasley) with hundreds of mosaics from Mexico and Italy. The mural, built upon 15 sep- tiles. That’s how it started. arate panels, took an entire summer to “He was very, very good at it,” she add- complete. ed. Shards from Masada and the Western That’s putting it mildly. Today, her fa- Wall, which were purchased from the ther’s creations are on display at the U.S. Israeli Department of Antiquities, are embassy in Israel, the Israeli embassy in incorporated into its design. Washington and Jewish Hospital down- The graphic Holocaust scenes in the town. mural have always been somewhat con- “He has mosaics literally all over the troversial. According to the Post and world,” Karen Berg said. Opinion, Rigsby was apprehensive at This particular mural was unveiled first about how stark they would be, but with a separate mosaic plaque dedicat- he soon came around to the concept. ing the work to Kaplan and bearing two “It’s something too easy to forget,” he biblical passages: the line from Joel giv- told the paper. “So, it has to be shown. en above, and these words from Exodus: The first or second generation removed “I will redeem you. I will bring you into from catastrophe should be reminded of the land.” #JEWLOU WATERFRONT WEDNESDAY JEWISH BEDTIME STORIES and SONGS HAPPY HOUR
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APPLY TODAY Call Madelyn Cerra at 238-2719 or sign up online REGISTER ONLINE AT JEWISHLOUISVILLE.ORG/YAD-HAPPY-HOUR at www.jewishlouisville.org/pjlibrary. JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Y Community 3 Klempner completes term as JCL chair; calls for ‘new faces’ in next campaign
By Lee Chottiner so much at its Dutchmans Lane campus Interim Editor that “it can’t be wrapped up in a slogan.” On the business front, the new of- Jay Klempner ended his two-year ficers of the JCL board were elected at term as chair of the JCL Board of Di- the meeting. They are Jon Fleischak- rectors at the Annual Meeting Thursday, er (chair), Ralph Green and Jeff Tuvlin June 8. (vice chairs), Laurence Nibur (interim “We had a lot of work that we accom- treasurer), Becky Swansburg (secretary) plished,” Klempner told the capacity and Klempner (immediate past chair). crowd in reflecting upon his term, “and Two board members were elected to we have a lot of work ahead of us.” their first terms – Madeline Abramson He said the JCL had brought in more and Shari “George” Polur – and three revenue over the past two years while were elected to a second consecutive controlling expenses, and added new term – Seth Gladstein, Nibur, and Jake staff with new skills. He touted the Jew- Wishnia. ish Heritage Fund for Excellence for its Per by-law rules, Amy Ryan will serve $200,000 campaign challenge. on the board as Program Cabinet chair, “We’re now ready and prepared for a Rabbi Nadia Siritsky will serve as Louis- bright future,” he said. ville Board of Rabbis and Cantors pres- He said he was proud that the JCL had ident, and Rabbi Stanley Miles as JCRC addressed the contentious issue of reli- chair. gious pluralism in Israel over the past Mark Behr, Karen Benabou, Sarah year, hosting the heads of the Jewish Harlan, Jon Klein, Ariel Kronenberg, state’s Reform and Conservative (Maso- Outgoing JCL Chair Jay Klempner gets a hug from President and CEO Sara Klein Wagner during the June 8 Annual Robin Miller, Benjamin Vaughan and rti) movements in an open forum to dis- Meeting. In the backdrop is the new plaque for the Dr. Harold Berg mosaic that was rededicated during the cere- Amy Wisotsky will remain on the board. cuss the status of liberal Jews there. mony. (photo by William Beasley) Lance Gilbert, chair of the Gover- “It’s equally important that we, as to share. to Louisville, as well as its homegrown nance Committee, led the business por- Louisville Jews, overcome our differenc- “Jay has an incredible respect for our JTomorrow!, which is laying the ground- tion of the meeting. es,” he said. team and professional staff,” Wagner work for a future J that will serve the Klempner ended his own remarks by President and CEO Sara Klein Wag- said. “And for that, I’m grateful.” needs of a changing community. “challenging” the crowd to be ambassa- ner paid tribute to the outgoing lay lead- Wagner used her remarks to laud the (She hinted that there will be more dors for JCL and tell family and friends er, calling Klempner “realistic, pragmat- JCL for bringing LIFE & LEGACY, a developments from JTomorrow! in Sep- what is happening at Dutchmans Lane. ic and determined.” She also liked how program that nurtures legacy giving by tember, but she didn’t elaborate.) “I want to see more new faces at next he always seemed to have a good story individuals to local Jewish institutions, According to Wagner, the JCL is doing year’s campaign,” he said.
PJ Library grants help families with children connect to community here
Louisville-area families raising ing. In the past, Get Together grants Applications open on Monday, May 22 books every month by signing up for PJ Jewish children will now have more op- were used for Shabbat-themed experi- and close Friday, June 30. Library at pjlibrary.org. Children ages portunities to participate in Jewish life, ences, baking or crafts, book clubs, and For more information, visit pjlibrary. 9-11 can choose a free chapter book or thanks to a grant opportunity recently parent-only evenings. org/GetTogether or contact Cerra at graphic novel every month by enrolling awarded by the Harold Grinspoon Get Togethers happen when families [email protected]. Families in PJ Our Way with a parent at pjour- Foundation (HGF). want to experience them, and how they with children ages 0-8 can receive free way.org. want to experience them. Madelyn Cerra, PJ Library coordina- tor at the Jewish Federation of Lou- isville said she is “honored to receive the grant, and thrilled to be part of the global PJ Library community reaching TheThe earlierearlier hundreds of thousands of families.” The grants will be distributed to The grants are funded through the members of PJ Library, the flagship PJ Library Alliance. Partners in the program of HGF that offers free Jewish Alliance include the Harold Grinspoon you call, books and programs to more than Foundation, the William Davidson 125,000 families around the world. Foundation, the Marcus Foundation, you call, Louisville is among a select group of Inc., the Jim Joseph Foundation, the PJ Library communities in the United William & Audrey Farber Philanthrop- the more States and Canada chosen to partic- ic Fund; the Diane & Guilford Glazer/ ipate in the Get Together grants pro- Jewish Community Foundation of LA, gram, an opportunity that will give Carl & Joann Bianco, the Howard & the more local families up to $150 to create their Geraldine Polinger Family Foundation, we can help. own experiences to get together with the Susser Family Trust, Walter, Arnee, friends. Sarah & Aaron Winshall, and two Get Together grants are meant to anonymous partners. help build social connections among PJ Library and PJ Our Way™ fam- families and encourage them to engage ilies currently living in Louisville are we can help. in Jewish life, programming, or learn- invited to apply to host a Get Together.
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Noted culinary historian Michael Twitty made several appearances in Louisville in June including the Frasier History Museum and the 2017 Fresh Stop Market grand opening at The J. He is pictured here at a Lions of Judah function at the home of Janet Hodes. Pictured are Hodes (left), Twitty, New Roots Executive Director Karyn Moskowitz and Jewish Federation Director of Women’s Philanthropy and Outreach Julie Hollander. (staff photo) 800-264-0521 | HosparusHealth.org 4 Community Y JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Y Community 5 First Person: Mom recounts JWRP journey to Israel, impact of trip
By Lisa Michel Barnes have begun baking our own challah. My nected to the Jewish community.” For Community adult daughter recently moved into an In comparing her youngest daughter’s apartment. About a week later, she sent recent bat mitzvah with that of her old- It doesn’t hurt to ask. If you don’t ask, me a picture that completely warmed er daughter’s three years ago, Jasmine the answer will always be “no.” my heart – lit candles and a table set Farrier said, “The first time around, I Because that has always been one with challah, wine and Shabbat dinner. was obsessed with logistics. The second of my philosophies, a year ago I sent This was one small yet huge impact of time around, I was fully engaged in her a “nothing ventured, nothing gained” Israel. and the family’s spiritual growth and email inquiring about Louisville’s first It’s fair to say we all came home from connection to the synagogue and each Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project Israel more knowledgeable and empow- other.” (JWRP) Israel trip – also known as MO- ered, more connected to Judaism and Like Jasmine, each of us came home Mentum – I had no idea my life and my our community, and simply more con- from Israel with a “renewed spirit.” children’s lives were about to be blessed fident Jews. Through JWRP, the impact of Isra- with a positive change. Israel motivated us to begin or in- el inspired 16 women to become better Last November, 16 Jewish moms, all crease our participation in Jewish or- Jewish moms, daughters, friends and with children under the age of 18, set ganizations and activities, and attend or wives…better advocates for Israel and off for a life-changing journey. Each of volunteer at community events. In fact, more involved members and leaders of us could spend hours telling you about our trip chairwoman, Dara Woods, was the Jewish community. Israel changed what we did in Israel, what we learned motivated to take on more leadership us for the better. and how we were inspired. We each have roles in the community and recently We are all thankful to the Federation favorite parts of the trip, but in the end, received the Lewis W. Cole Memorial and The J for the amazing opportunity there were some very common threads. Young Leadership Award at the JCL’s we were given to be a part of Louisville’s Now that we’ve returned and com- annual meeting. first JWRP adventure. We are excited pleted six months of our one-year com- MOMentum moms on a Tel Aviv beach. (photo provided) Among other trip participants, Jaime for the next group of 18 women who will mitment to participate in post-trip ed- Schwartz said she feels more confident join JWRP trip this November. And to ucation programming and activities, beautiful ritual into my home. Today, talking to her children about Jewish young Jewish moms everywhere, we say there have already been some powerful those of us who occasionally celebrated life and history. Jessica Springer said “Go to Israel! Be inspired and empow- changes, among the biggest (for many of are now more consistently lighting can- the experience inspired her “to look for ered!” us) being the celebration of Shabbat. dles and having Shabbat dinner as many opportunities for other Jewish people to Before Israel, I had never brought this Friday nights as possible. Several of us become more involved (and) more con-
Generation to Generation committee makes call for photos, memories The J and its partners over the years and Young Adult Division’s Jodi Halp- have played a major role in something ern. Jewish Louisville cares about, L’dor Registration is now open online at V’dor, “From Generation to Genera- https://jewishlouisville.org/event/gener- tion.” ation/ or by calling David Mays at 502- So much so, in fact, The J regularly 238-2770. Tickets are $65 per person hears from members and guests, re- and next generation tickets for adult 30 flecting on how they grew up at the cen- years old and younger are $36. ter, how they learned to swim here, how We need photos and memories! their grandchildren learned to walk Tribute ads are available to all com- here, how their parents have lunch with munity members who wish to share a friends in the Senior Adult Lounge, and favorite photo and one-line memory how their kids look forward to camp. or tribute to honor someone special. None of that is possible without Tributes will be shown on screens people like you – community members, throughout the evening and will also be dedicated volunteers and lay leaders, shared on social media before and after committed staff members and enthu- the event. siastic program participants. So, let’s Make a tribute today for $54 or get party! two for $100. All proceeds from the The Generation to Generation Cele- Tribute Ads will support the JCC’s camp bration on Sunday, August 27, 6:30 p.m., and membership scholarship funds. Couples young and old are expected to dance the night away at the August 7 Generation to Generation Celebration at the beautifully renovated Louisville at the beautifully renovated Louisville Marriott East. Please send the photo and text to David Marriott East, is a chance to come Mays at [email protected] together as a community to reminisce “Annette was a mentor, a leader and a everyone.” or call him with questions at 502-238- and reconnect with friends from the champion of every person who walked The Generation to Generation Cel- 2770. past, welcome newcomers and celebrate through our doors. She believed with- ebration will be Co-chaired by Bob & our bright future together. her whole heart The J should be open to Margie Kohn and Jaye & Bob Bittner The celebration will include Heaven Hill sponsored cocktails, a delectable 3-course dinner, dancing through each SUMMER decade’s classics with DJ Coxx, an Only 6 Weeks Left opportunity to have a family portrait made and more. CAMP The J, in partnership with Jaye Bit- of Summer Camp! tner and her family, will use this special event to present the Inaugural Annette Simon Sagerman L’dor V’dor Award to Marsha Bornstein and the Annette Si- REGISTER mon Sagerman Next Generation Award to Keren Benabou, two very special TODAY! people that truly embody the spirit of Annette Sagerman Z’’L. For 65 years, Annette was the face of the JCC and as President and CEO Sara Wagner said, FOR GIRLS AND BOYS AGES 2 YEARS-12TH GRADE Shalom Tower Waiting List Now Has 3 Month Wait for Vacancy Free swim daily! For further information, please call Diane Reece or Eleonora Isahakyan at 454-7795.
REGISTER ONLINE: www.jcclouisvillecamp.org 3650 Dutchmans Ln., Louisville, KY 40205 502-459-0660 (502) 454-7795 6 Community Y JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Communit y Community is published monthly by the Jewish FORUM Community of Louisville, Inc., 3600 Dutchmans Lane, Louisville, KY 40205-3216. USPS #020-068 at Louisville, KY. JCL leaders reflect on year of growth here The Jewish Community of Louisville is a nonprofit organization. $26 of your pledge It has been our privilege to serve to- • JTomorrow! led by Dr. Jeff Goldberg is for a subscription for Community. gether as leadership partners for our and a cadre of wonderful volunteers For more information, call Jewish Federation and JCC. We were kicked off in December. JTomorrow! is 502-459-0660, fax 502-238-2724, honored to host our 2017 Annual Meet- e-mail [email protected] or check out the vision of our future J. This includes the website www.jewishlouisville.org. ing on Thursday, June 8, where we cele- the physical facility and the programs brated our award winners and reflected and services we will provide to both the POSTMASTER – Send address changes to on a few highlights from this past year Jewish community and the greater Lou- Community, 3600 Dutchmans Lane, Louisville, KY 40205-3216. and looked towards the future. isville community to connect, grow and The JCL made it possible for thou- engage for generations to come. sands of people with unique needs and There are countless stories of the lives COMMUNITY DEADLINES aspirations to participate in Jewish ex- Deadlines for the next two issues of Community impacted throughout the past year. We for copy and ads are: July 19 for publication on periences this past year. There are far Sara Klein Jay would be remiss, however, if we did not July 28 and August 16 for publication on August too many to list them all. Here are just mention the bomb threat received by our 25. a few: Wagner Klempner JCC this past winter that caused much Community publishes Newsmakers and Around • We are grateful to Jane Goldstein and anxiety and was followed by heightened Town items at no charge. Items must be Jon Fleischaker for leading the 2017 An- Israel and returned with life-changing concern in Louisville and throughout submitted in writing. Please include your name nual Campaign. Thank you to our do- experiences and thoughts to share with the country. Our staff treated the event and a daytime telephone number where you nors and philanthropy team for meeting their families and community. and the weeks that followed with great can be contacted in the event that questions the generous $200,000 challenge grant • PJ Library welcomed a new coordina- care, professionalism and strength. We arise. Community reserves the right to edit all from JHFE. tor, Madelyn Cerra who is already ex- are grateful to the hundreds of people submissions to conform to style and length • We took a major step becoming part panding engagement opportunities to of different faiths and backgrounds requirements. of the LIFE & LEGACY program cre- our 300+ PJ participants and families. who gathered on our front lawn to share ated and led by the Harold Grinspoon • Michael Fraade joined us as a JOFEE their love and solidarity during the #We- ADVERTISING INFORMATION Foundation. LIFE & LEGACY motivates fellow last spring. Our JCC is one of 10 StandTogether rally. To advertise, please contact our sales Jewish organizations to integrate legacy Finally, thank you to the JCL Board representative at 502-418-5845 or e-mail participating in the JOFEE fellowship [email protected]. giving into their fundraising to assure program through a partnership between of Directors, our volunteers and the JCL the financial sustainability of the Jew- JCCA and Hazon. “Farmer Mike’s” ener- staff for your passion, energy and com- The appearance of advertising in Community ish community. Jennifer Tuvlin, LIFE gy and passion for healthy food and a mitment. The work of the Jewish Feder- does not represent a kashruth endorsement. & LEGACY coordinator and Stacy Gor- sustainable environment is energizing, ation and The J underscores the power don-Funk, vice-president of philanthro- including collaborative work with New of what we can accomplish together. EDITORIAL POLICY py, lead this important initiative. They Roots and The J’s Fresh Stop Markets. May the year ahead continue to take us Community accepts letters to the editor are joined by Sheldon Gilman, LIFE & from strength to strength. for publication. All letters must be of interest to Michael also has re-established the com- the Jewish community or in response to LEGACY chair and Chris Brice, Jewish munity garden that our seniors started an item published in the paper. They must be Foundation of Louisville chair. several years ago. The garden has now (Jay Klempner is the outgoing chair of the no longer than 300 words in length and signed. • Our first Jewish Women’s Renaissance quadrupled in size and is no longer just JCL Board of Directors. Sara Klein Wag- Name, address and daytime phone number must Project trip to Israel included 16 Jewish a seasonal garden providing fresh pro- ner is the president and CEO of the JCL.) be included for verification purposes only. women who personally connected with duce throughout the year. Community reserves the right to refuse to publish any letter, to edit for brevity while preserving the meaning, and to limit the number of letters published in any edition. The future of Holocaust remembrance is now Email your comments to: Community, Letters to the Interim Editor, [email protected]. Jewish Louisville is tasked with a Shoah, not only Anti-Semitism envoy To submit items to Newsmakers, Around Town or holy mission: to preserve the memory with its main ex- The position of anti-Semitism envoy Lifecycle, please email them to newspapercolumns@ of those killed in the Holocaust, to never hibit, but also with was created in 2004 by statute as part jewishlouisville.org. forget what happened, and to see that it its colors, its ar- of a State Department plan to advise never happens again – to us or to any- chitecture and its foreign leaders on combating anti-Semi- one. sound. tism. This post has yet to be filled by the EDITORIAL STAFF This informs much of what we do Here in Louis- current administration and now, with Lee Chottiner as a community. It plays a role in our ville, our Federa- plans to massively cut funding to the Interim Editor of Community support for the State of Israel. It is the tion funds and/or State Department, there is talk by Secre- 502-238-2783, [email protected] reason why so many Jews are in leader- coordinates trips tary of State Rex Tillerson of leaving the Kristy Benefield ship roles in causes around the world. It to the USHMM, position unfilled. Community Subscriptions played a role in our JCRC’s support for a an essential part This would be a huge mistake. 502-238-2739, [email protected] local Syrian refugee family. Matt of our overall Ho- According to the Anti-Defamation “Never Again” is, in many ways, our Goldberg locaust education League, anti-Semitic acts have increased Ben Goldenberg guiding principle. mission. (This is in in the United States by 86 percent in the Marketing Director Part of this duty is to pay tribute to the addition to our annual Yom HaShoah first three months of this year. World- 502-238-2711, [email protected] victims of the Shoah and to educate the activities.) wide, a recent ADL study shows that Bella Hodge world about what happened. For many Recently, a proposed federal budget over 1 Billion people worldwide harbor Sr. Graphic Designer & Web Manager years we had first-hand accounts, for included a cut in funding for the USH- anti-Semitic views. 502-238-2778, [email protected] which there is no substitute. Hearing MM. Federal funding should be in- Attacks against Jewish institutions eyewitness testimony of what it was like creased, not cut. in Europe have increased dramatically Shiela Steinman Wallace to experience this horror brings a level The USHMM needs to be used by in recent years, and Jews cannot safely Editor Emeritus of authenticity that is unmatched. an increasing number of Jewish and wear anything that is identifiably Jewish But the days of the first-hand account non-Jewish education and community in many countries in Western Europe. BOARD OF DIRECTORS are fast coming to an end. Every year, institutions. Rarely do we take some- This post is needed now more than ever. Board Chair the number of survivors left to tell their one to the museum who is not deeply We also urge President Trump and Sec- Jay Klempner tale gets smaller. In the not-too-distant affected and transformed by it. The rest retary of State Tillerson to not leave this future, they will all be gone. return to their respective communities vital post unfilled and conduct a com- JCL SENIOR STAFF How will we tell their story then? to share and teach a universal message prehensive search for the next envoy as Well, one primary tool is the United of tolerance. We urge President Donald soon as possible. President & Chief Executive Officer Sara Wagner States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Trump and Congress to increase fund- and this tool is invaluable. It does a ing, not decrease it. (Matt Goldberg is director of the Jewish Vice President of Philanthropy wonderful job of telling the story of the Community Relations Council.) Stacy Gordon-Funk Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Ed Hickerson Senior Director of Marketing, Judaism: Pursue goals of the Paris climate accords Communications & Engagement Shayne Brill By David Kraemer our collective responsibility for the plan- contributor to global warming, and that Guest Columnist et we call home. the consequences will be significant and Tax deductible contributions may be sent to Community, 3600 Dutchmans Lane, Louisville, KY 40205 That the earth has been warming in even catastrophic. If average global tem- The Trump administration’s decision recent years is indisputable. At issue are peratures rise just a little further, not to withdraw from the Paris climate the causes of this warming and its con- only will vast populations be “inconve- agreement has demanded that we all ask sequences. nienced,” but environments will shift, ourselves where we stand on questions The vast majority of scientists agree food supplies will be disrupted, severe © 2017 JEWISH COMMUNITY OF LOUISVILLE, INC. of climate change, global warming and that human activities are a significant See KRAEMER on next page JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Y Community 7
when human life (and die) in the future. But Judaism is the creator’s commandments to care for Kraemer might be at risk. also clear in insisting that our obliga- it (see Berakhot 35a–b). The earth is not continued from previous page And Jewish law tions extend not only to those who live ours to exploit – let alone to destroy – at is unambiguous today, but also to future generations. will. It is ours only if we are good stew- weather events will be more common, when life might As Moses, speaking for God, says in ards. As Genesis 2:15 says, we are placed animal species will be eradicated and be at risk: You are Deuteronomy 29:13-14: “I make this cov- in this “garden” of ours “to work it and more — all at a rate unprecedented in obligated to “err” enant ... not with you alone, but both to guard it.” human history. in the direction of with those who are standing here with It would be unfair to say that Judaism In other words, this is not merely caution. us this day before the Lord our God and requires us to stay in the Paris climate a matter of principle. If scientists are So on Yom Kip- with those who are not with us this day.” agreement; biblical and rabbinic pre- right, this is a matter of life and death pur, if a pregnant The covenant, with its obligations to scriptions are not simplistically trans- for potentially large numbers of crea- woman says she is David Kraemer save lives, is a “generation to generation” latable into the details of 21st-century tures, including humans. Matters of life fine without eating covenant. policy. But Judaism does require us to and death are central to the concerns of but a doctor says her life is at risk, you Finally, our obligation as Jews extends pursue the goals of the Paris accords Jewish thought and religion. are obligated to feed her. By the same not just to our own species but to the and even more. The fact that questions So we Jews must ask: What do Jewish token, if the doctor says she is fine but world and all of God’s creatures within remain does not change this conclusion. teachings demand of us in the matter of she says she is failing, you are similarly it. Psalms declares that “the earth and In the view of Judaism, the survival of global warming? obligated to feed her. What this means its fullness are the Lord’s” (24:1). We the earth and its creatures is our respon- From a Jewish perspective, it makes is that even if the “alarmists” only might are, as Leviticus announces, mere “res- sibility. no difference that there are those, in- be right, we are obligated to take the ident-aliens” (25:23) on the land. cluding a small number of scientists, steps they advise. If human life might be But doesn’t Psalms (115:16) also teach (David Kraemer is the Joseph J. and Dora who dispute the science and therefore at risk, we must act to avert the risk. that “the heavens belong to the Lord Abbell Librarian and Professor of Talmud that the conclusions are the source of One might respond that the Yom Kip- while He gave the earth to the children and Rabbinics at the Jewish Theological alarm. Because global warming might pur case pertains to someone who is al- of men”? Yes, says the Talmud, but only Seminary.) lead to human deaths, it falls into the ready alive, while the concern for global after we take responsibility for the earth category of safek nefashot, or occasions warming extends to those who will live by recognizing its creator and following Ban on partisan pulpits is key to protecting religious freedom By Rabbi Jack Moline In exchange for in practical terms. However, Congress stitution suggests. And for those people Guest Columnist the opportunity could wipe out the law altogether. with less integrity, even a small threat of to offer tax deduc- That would be exactly the wrong move sanction makes them think twice about That small, little-known law known as tions to donors, for American democracy and religious the consequences of getting caught. the Johnson Amendment, which prohib- the non-profits – freedom. The Johnson Amendment I can think of times when the bully its electioneering by houses of worship including, but not may be rarely enforced, but it is a crit- pulpit of the presidency could rightful- and other charities and which President limited to houses ical guidepost. And just because people ly be used to call for passive resistance Trump has vowed to repeal, is exception- of worship – agree could get away with violating it, that against an immoral law. Plunging hous- ally important to preserve. Even if it is that neither the doesn’t mean they do so. es of worship into partisan politics does not widely enforced, the permission it organization nor I believe that people of integrity follow not strike me as one of those times. grants to the Internal Revenue Service anyone represent- Rabbi Jack Moline the law even without the threat of pun- If you are clergy or congregant, you to pursue violators is critical to the pro- ing it will endorse ishment. We typically stop at red lights, should oppose the assault on the John- tection of religious communities and the or oppose a candidate for office. Issue correct a bank teller who gives us too son Amendment. Thankfully, polling integrity of government. advocacy is fully permitted, but elec- much money, vote only once in an elec- shows that you already do – overwhelm- A 16th-century rabbi told me so. tioneering is not. It seems an eminently tion and settle our disagreements with ingly. There exists a teaching in the scholarly reasonable standard, especially since no words. We do so because the rules of discussions of Jewish law that translates one, including clergy, is restricted from civil society are important, enacted to (Rabbi Jack Moline is president of In- roughly as, “It may be the rule, but we do endorsing in a personal capacity. promote the general welfare, as the Con- terfaith Alliance.) not teach about it publicly.” It is invoked It is no secret that this law is rarely en- sparingly, almost always when a person forced. The process of investigating and is technically allowed to do something prosecuting violations is costly and com- that would nonetheless prove harmful plicated. No one has ever gone to jail for it to others. Think of the straw that used to and only one house of worship is known be left on the roadside for people to use to have ever lost its tax-exempt status for when cleaning up after their animals. a violation. Given the many thousands of The straw was technically ownerless houses of worship in America, that does and could be taken by any passerby for not exactly seem excessive. private use, but the Talmud directs us to But of all the things right-wing preach- not encourage such behavior. ers might get exercised about – poverty, Why? Rabbi Bezalel Ashkenazi, best inequality, war, bigotry, personal immo- known as the author of the Talmud com- rality – they seem to be sinking millions mentary Shitah Mekubezet, offers this of dollars and almost as many words INTRODUCING relatable explanation: Even when you into claiming that their First Amend- can get away with something without ment rights have been trampled by the penalty, we do not encourage it for the Johnson Amendment, and they are de- sake of a better world. manding its repeal. I can think of many corners of our President Trump has promised to society that would benefit from this sort do just that. Fortunately, as with oth- IBN of restraint. The Johnson Amendment, er promises made by the president, he which has been targeted by the religious does not have the unilateral authority to right for elimination, is near the top of change the law. His recent executive or- the list. der encouraged the IRS to look the oth- The amendment is a part of the tax er way when people violate the Johnson ALI code governing tax-exempt charities. Amendment, but this accomplishes little BOXING PROGRAM ADULT & KID CLASSES PRIVATE LESSONS LAUNCHING IBN ALI, NEPHEW OF JULY MUHAMMAD ALI, NOW COACHING BOXING 2017 EXCLUSIVELY AT THE J. MORE INFO. AT JEWISHLOUISVILLE.ORG/ALI-BOXING 8 Community Y JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Six-Day War revisited Raffel: Educating youth on legacy of 1967 conflict is key to the future
By Lee Chottiner For that reason, he took aim at those Interim Editor who say Israel’s “dirty linen” should not be aired in public. On the 50th anniversary of the Six- “I’m not at all afraid of our dirty linen,” Day War, Martin Raffel said the Jewish he said. “In fact, I see Israel’s problems world is failing to transmit the lessons as an opportunity for our constructive of that period to its younger generations. engagement. If we want more religious He said many Jews have grown up pluralism in Israel, let’s work for it. If we with no memory of the events that led don’t like some of the things that Israel to the war: the angry mobs in Arab does to its non-Jewish citizens, then let’s capitals “screaming for Jewish blood,” try doing something about it.” Egypt’s closure of the Straits of Tiran to • Never give up on peace – with security. Israeli shipping, the expelling of United A supporter of a two-state solution with Nations peacekeeping forces from Sinai, the Palestinians, Raffel is pessimistic an arms embargo by France, U.S. reluc- that he will live to see it. Then again, he tance to intervene, and a genuine fear by noted, Jews of the time never expected American Jews that another Holocaust to see Egyptian President Anwar Sadat was in the offing. fly to Israel in 1977, speak to the Knesset “Israel was all alone,” Raffel said. “We and eventually make a peace with Prime all felt it; we all saw it.” Minister Menachem Begin that has en- Israel, of course, won that war, but its dured for nearly 40 years. victory, he said, sowed “seeds of disuni- The Palestinian issue continues to ty” that are dividing American Jews to “loom large,” with no solution in sight, this day. but Raffel doesn’t despair. Raffel, former vice-president of the Martin Raffel (left) and Cantor David Lipp share a moment following Raffel’s lecture on his recollection of the Six- Day War and the lasting impact of the conflict. (photo by Courtney Hatley) I’m more OK with realism,” he said Jewish Council for Public Affairs and a “but looking back on history, I’m not OK recognized expert on Israeli history, was not the least of which is Iran. ... is alien to those who see the world with pessimism. Moreover, the Jewish the feature speaker for a Tuesday, June “We have to find the tools to convey to through the lens of our American expe- search for peace is not discretionary.” 6, program at The J, “The Six Day War: A the not-old-enough generation, who did rience,” Raffel said. “We take for grant- He envisions a three-way track to History-Making Event for Israel and the not live through those events, who don’t ed that our community, especially the peace that includes growing bilateral re- Challenges Created by It.” have the same visceral feeling of Israel’s younger generation, has come to terms lations with the Palestinians, improving Speaking to more than 50 people in vulnerability, who see Israel as excep- with Israel’s dual identity as both Jew- external relations with the Saudis and the Patio Gallery, including rabbis and tionally strong militarily … that Israel’s ish and democratic. We miss this more like-minded regimes, and the work of lay leaders, Raffel outlined what he security should never be taken for grant- foundational discussion at our pearl.” NGOs on both sides of the Green Line called six “reflections” about the Six-Day ed,” he said. • Commitment to Jewish peoplehood that build trust while working together War. Really, they were six lessons for • Don’t forget 1948. The War for Inde- matters. Raffel recalled 1985 when he on critical domestic issues. American Jewry as it processes the last- pendence defined Israel’s character as a visited the then-Soviet Union and met “Israel and the Jewish people should ing effects of the conflict: democratic state with a Jewish majority, clandestinely in a Moscow basement never feel comfortable controlling the • Israel was vulnerable in 1967 and still but young people don’t necessarily un- with 25 refuseniks. During that meet- lives of another people,” Raffel said. “We is. Though many young Jews today see derstand why Israel must be a Jewish ing, as he spoke in Hebrew about Jeru- must encourage the parties to keep try- the Palestinians as David to Israel’s Go- state. (the United States, after all, is not salem, there was loud banging on the ing and, in the meantime, take steps to liath, Raffel said Israel remains threat- a single ethnic state.) door, which unnerved him. His hosts, at least preserve the viability of a two- ened by internal and existential forces, “The notion of an ethnic majority state though, calmly assured him that it was state solution.” just the KJB who couldn’t get through • Jews must be concerned about more the locked entrance and would eventu- than just Israel. American Jews must ally go away. work with like-minded people to ad- For Raffel, it was a powerful moment. vance shared values and interests on “All Jews are responsible for one anoth- critical issues, Raffel said. “Jews have a er,” he said. Still, he said the communi- responsibility, not just to our own, but to ty hasn’t done enough to teach younger humanity.” TOUR ISRAEL— Jews about “one of American Jewry’s During the Darfur genocide, he said proudest moments” – the rescuing Sovi- he was heartened to see signs in front of A 7 Day Israel Bike Journey et Jews. so many synagogues proclaiming, “Save “Jewish peoplehood really matters, Darfur,” much like the “Save Soviet Jew- FOR AMATEUR BIKE ENTHUSIASTS! and I don’t think we’ve done a good ry” signs from an earlier time. enough job of transmitting the impor- “For me, every Darfur sign was a October 18 - 24, 2017 tance of that concept to the not-old- badge of honor,” Raffel said. “We cared + Optional 2 days in the Western Galilee Oct. 16-18 enough generation.” about the fate of another people.” (Not including travel time) • Be mindful of the real issues Isra- “There are many daunting challeng- ACCOMMODATIONS el faces. It is wrong to have a “utopian es to the wellbeing of our community, THE TOUR (SEE BACK FOR DETAILS) Wednesday, Oct. 18: Accommodations by local Druze hosts PARTNERSHIP2GETHER is offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience sense” of Israel, the kind that took hold our country and our planet,” he added, Thursday, Oct. 19: Nahara Hotel, Kibbutz Ashdot Yaakov Ichud to discover Israel by bike. You’ll partake in rides from the Western following the Six-Day War, Raffel said. “What I do know is that we in the Jew- Galilee northern border with Lebanon, to the eastern border with Friday, Oct. 22: Leonardo Inn Hotel Dead Sea It’s also wrong to see Israel as a country ish community should be fully engaged, Syria along the Golan Heights, and in the southern Jordan Valley Saturday, Oct. 21: Ibex Hotel, Mitzpe Ramon to Eilat. that can do no right, which is common locally, nationally and internationally. Sunday, Oct. 22: Prima Music, Eilat TOUR ISRAEL is a 7 day cycling journey that will combine biking today. Our voice must be heard in the halls of and tours of Israel’s unique characteristics, populations and sites. Monday, Oct. 23: Jerusalem Hotel, Jerusalem “It’s long past time for a mature rela- power. It is both the right thing to do, The tour is catered to amateur cyclists. Participants will cross the COST: tionship that sees Israel as it is,” Raffel and it is also the smart thing to do.” country from Rosh Hanikra and the Druze village of Majdal Shams in the North, to the city of Eilat, which borders Egypt in the South. Registration until August 31, 2017: $2,500 said, “both the good and the bad.” The riders will bike through central areas along the way, getting Late registration until October 15, 2017: $2,650 the opportunity to explore and connect to the scenery, landmarks and cultural sites. Registration: www.trans-israel.co.il/en The price is based on a shared double room for all nights, if you are TOUR ISRAEL focuses on areas of great geographical significance. interested in a single room, there is an additional charge of $500.00 Together we will begin to understand the complexity of life in Love from Louisville supplies to your package. All breakfasts and dinners are also included. If Israel and enjoy the great abundance of it’s history, culinary treats you have special dietary needs (allergies, vegetarian, etc.), please and scenic treasures. notify the organizers upon registration. The price above does reached refugees, Babar says Option: If you are unable to join for the full 7 day journey, it is NOT include airfare and private health insurance. possible to come for a part of it—contact us for more information. Ride the Western Galilee with Partnership2Gether By Lee Chottiner paign…their donations are being well TRANSPORTATION, SUPPORT & STAFF from October 16-18 for an additional cost of $600. Interim Editor spent,” Babar said. • Transportation for participants and gear will be provided from FOR MORE INFORMATION He said Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS), the start of the trip until the end. • Support vehicles will accompany the cyclists throughout each Contact: Harel Nahmani at [email protected] and The recent citywide drive to send Love from Louisville’s partner on the ride for logistics, security and evacuation if necessary. +972-50-659-9008 clothing, shoes and other necessities to ground in Greece, distributed the ne- • A large vehicle (bus or minibus) with a trailer for equipment www.trans-israel.co.il/en Syrian refugees in Greece – supported cessities, not only by the Syrians in the and bicycles will be provided and it will transport gear to the www.facebook.com/TransIsraelChallenge hotel at the end of each day. or Heidi Benish, P2G Mission Coordinator, at [email protected] largely by Jewish Louisville – was worth camp, but also by refugees from Congo • Staff includes Event Organizer, Project Manager, a qualified the effort, a local humanitarian says. and Cameroon who also made the dan- cycling coach to lead the ride, and a tour guide for site visits. WHAT IS PARTNERSHIP2GETHER? PARTNERSHIP2GETHER, a program of The Jewish Agency for Israel Dr. Muhammad Babar Cheema just gerous trip to Europe. and The Jewish Federations of North America, promotes people-to- returned from Greece where he visited Only a few hundred people were in people relationships through cultural, social, medical, educational and the refugee camp where supplies via the camp, he said, mostly women and economic programs. This Partnership is between the 14 communities of the U.S. Central Area Consortium, Budapest, and Israel’s Western Galilee. Love from Louisville were directed. He children confirmed that the supplies are getting Love from Louisville collected enough through. clothing, shoes, toiletries and other CONNECT & MAKE A DIFFERENCE www.westerngalilee.org.il “I’m thankful to the Jewish communi- items to fill two shipping containers to ty of Louisville for their financial, phys- Greece. The Temple and Temple Shalom ical and spiritual support for the cam- served as collection points for the drive. JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Y Community 9 Hassan calls for ‘intensive’ Muslim-Jewish dialogue at Melton school
By Lee Chottiner rectly addresses the Jewish people. It supporters,” according to its website, to Interim Editor teaches respect for Judaism and calls counter islamophobia and other forms upon Muslims to follow the Hebrew of intolerance through education. People in the crowd gasped as Riffat prophets and Jewish scriptures. Edwin Segal, professor emeritus of Hassan described how comfortable she “I cannot be a Muslim if I do not ac- anthropology at the Universityof Louis- felt being in a synagogue for a Florence cept all the prophets you believe in,” she ville and a member of the Melton facul- Melton school program. said. ty, introduced Hassan. “I am both happy and sad to be here,” All this, she said, counters beliefs of The Melton Celebration of Learning is Hassan said, “happy because of what I many Muslims who think the Quran is a defacto graduation ceremony from the had heard from the Melton scholars and critical of Judaism and that God has re- adult education program, though Slos- the atmosphere of learning, and sad be- jected it. berg doesn’t care for the G word. cause I feel more at home here than in Because of such misunderstandings, “There’s no such thing as graduation almost any mosque in Louisville.” Hassan, a long-time drumbeater for in Melton,” she told the crowd gathered That’s quite a statement coming from interreligious discourse, called for an in the AJ chapel. “That’s why we call it a a Muslim, a theologian and a scholar of “intensive Muslim-Jewish dialogue,” celebration of learning.” the Quran. including the study of each other’s texts Three core graduates – Sydney Hym- But Hassan, a professor emerita of and traditions. son, Lynn Rosenthal, Anita Stargel – re- religious studies at the University of “The time has come when this dia- ceived diplomas at this year’s ceremony. Louisville and the keynote speaker for logue needs to be pursued vigorously,” Also, two scholar students, Melanie-Pre- Melton’s Celebration of Learning, Sun- she said, “and I can’t think of a better jean Sullivan, director of campus minis- day, June 4, at Adath Jeshurun, said her place [to do so] than the Melton pro- try at Bellarmine University, and Marcia words reflected her own experiences gram.” Segal, professor emerita of sociology at Riffat Hassan says the Quran teaches respect for Juda- and the state of learning in the mosque. Born and raised in Pakistan, Hassan, ism and that Muslims must accept the teachings of the Indiana University Southeast, were rec- She said the “atmosphere is of learn- a feminist, said she struggled with con- Hebrew prophets. (photo by Lee Chottiner) ognized and addressed the gathering. ing” is very different there. servative religious attitudes in her coun- During the program, Slosberg made “Education is not a priority in the try while growing up, particularly views “The new course curriculum has just a tzedakah presentation, giving a check mosques, except in a ritualistic way,” she on the role of women – struggles that are been released by Hebrew University,” for $2,400 to Janet Meyer for the JFCS told Community after the program. reflected in her views today. said Melton Director Deborah Slosberg. Food Pantry. Meyer said the pantry When she is among Melton partici- Hassan’s call to action came at the “That’s why I wanted to have an Islamic serves 150 people per month, and the pants, she added, “I sense a freeing.” same ceremony where Melton officials scholar speak.” need is greater during the summer. Education was the focus of Hassan’s announced that a new course – The Star Hassan also promoted the Salaam Rabbi Bob Slosberg lauded Debo- remarks at the Melton ceremony. She and the Crescent – would be taught this Network, a local effort of “interfaith rah, his wife, for reenergizing Melton. said the Quran, if studied carefully, di- fall. educators, peacemakers, writers and During her four-year tenure, he noted, enrollment has risen from 30 to 116 while the program’s budget has gone from $25,000 to $73,000. The rabbi also paid tribute to two Melton students who died over the past year: Jackie Kanovitz and Joyce Loeser. Loeser, the rabbi said, always consid- ered Melton to be “the highlight of her week” while Kanovitz, a relative new- comer to the program, embraced learn- ing in an inspiring way, signing up for Melton classes even though she knew she was dying. Goose creek Diner
Of equal or greater value. Not good with any other offers or discounts. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Expires 07/31/17 Dine In Only Mon.-Th. 11-9 PM Fri. 11-9:30 PM Sat. 8-9:30 PM Melton Director Deborah Slosberg (third from the left) poses with this year’s core graduates, Sydney Hymson, Lynn Rosenthal and Anita Stargel. (photo by Lee Chottiner) Sun. 9-8 PM 10 Community Y JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Jewish Hospital, JFCS partner on productive intern program for local youth
By Rabbi Nadia Siritsky mock interview For Community session provided in partnership with (Editor’s note: This month, Rabbi Na- Louisville Society dia Siritsky has cowritten her column for Human Re- with Kendall Thirlwell, employment pro- sources healthcare gram manager at the Jewish Family & Ca- sector volunteers, reer Services.) and a fitting for interview attire by Even during changes, Jewish Hospital Dress For Success continues to grow and thrive. & Dress to Impress The hospital recently welcomed sev- Rabbi Nadia Siritsky Suit Closet (Center eral new and renown physicians to its for Accessible Liv- team. It successfully completed a record ing). number of transplants and it received The interns will complete their May- several national designations. These in- or’s SummerWorks internship with Ken- clude the American Heart Association’s tuckyOne Health and gain experience in Get with the Guidelines Stroke Gold entry level environmental services, pa- Plus Quality Achievement Award, the tient transport, dietary, or patient care AHA Mission Lifeline Gold Plus Award, assistant positions. and the AHA Mission Lifeline STEMI They will receive ongoing case man- Rabbi Nadia Siritsky poses with participants in the Mayor’s SummerWorks internship project at Jewish Hospital Receiving Center Award. agement and be matched with a mentor (photo provided by Jewish Hospital) But of all our recent accomplish- in their healthcare career of interest. At ments, the one that has ignited the most the end of the internship, interns may pride and hope for our future has been be hired by the KentuckyOne Health or our partnership with Jewish Family & continue to receive employment assis- Career Services (JFCS), and our most tance from JFCS. recent collaborative project: JFCS re- Participants are also provided with ceived a mini-grant through the Mayor’s financial coaching to help them devel- SummerWorks to pilot an initiative in op budgets based on their employment partnership with KentuckyOne Health. income, their basic expenses, and any The mini-grant will provide a cohort new, work-related expenses such as child of 10 youths, ages 18-21, with paid sum- care and transportation. Career coach- mer internships in health care combined ing will focus on continuing to explore with intensive job readiness training, in- health care career options, developing ternship support, two-year certification a career plan, identifying steps for ad- in CPR & Basic Life Support, a mentor, vancing along a career pathway and re- and post-internship employment assis- sources to assist for paying for the req- tance. uisite training and education, as well as JFCS assisted in recruiting a cohort of learning how to take advantage of the eligible youth to participate in a pre-in- opportunities the current entry-level po- ternship program that included job sition offers as an entrée into a career in readiness training workshops, introduc- healthcare. tion to available community resources The participants identified the men- that can assist with overcoming barriers torship component as one of the major Dr. Lowell Katz meets with Nautia Mudd, one of the Mayor’s SummerWorks interns. (photo provided by Jewish to employment. appeals of the program. Interns who Hospital) Those barriers include transportation, want a career in medicine were paired orientation to careers in healthcare, a with a physician, a career in nursing with a nurse, in physical therapy with that these organizations have lost their a physical therapist. This aspect of the purpose. We now provide an important program is a reciprocal blessing, as avenue for the Jewish community to do health care providers have an oppor- tikkun olam (healing and repairing the tunity to give back, and become re-in- world). For Jews, this ensures that our spired through their interactions with religion’s purpose and values feel rele- the next generation of providers. vant. For non-Jews, this creates oppor- Maimonides identified as the highest tunities for encounter with Judaism, level of tzedakah (righteous charity) as which can proactively deter the reoccur- helping those to help themselves. This rence of anti-Semitism. program does exactly that, while also The Talmud teaches that if you save addressing a larger societal problem: the one person, you save a whole world. shortage of health care workers, which Thanks to this program, lives upon lives affects us all. and worlds upon worlds will be saved. Jewish Hospital and JFCS (as well To provide funding for future collab- as the JCC) are organizations that were orations between Jewish Hospital and formed at a time when Jews needed re- JFCS, you can contact the Jewish Hospi- ligiously specific services they could not tal and St Mary’s Foundation, to donate find elsewhere, or were not welcome to the Klempner Fund. elsewhere. Today, we are blessed to live in a time when Jews are well integrat- (Rabbi Nadia Siritsky is vice president ed into society, but this does not mean of mission for KentuckyOne Health.)
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502 585 3251 www.welenken.com JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Y Community 11 D’VAR TORAH Torah, Talmud show there are right and wrong ways to dissent
By Rabbi Michael Wolk “Any argument how to argue with someone in a con- fighting, not only in Louisville but in any For Community that is for the sake structive manner. While the Talmud is Jewish community. of Heaven, the leg- vague about how exactly they related to I’m not surprised by these fights and This Shabbat – Saturday, June 24 – we acy of its partici- each other, I would guess that their in- arguments; we all have strong opinions will read in the Torah the story of Kor- pants will endure. teractions included respectful dialogue, about what is best for our synagogues, ach and his rebellion against Moses and Any argument receptivity to the other party’s opinion, JCCs, schools and other Jewish institu- Aaron. that is not for the benevolent feelings and goodwill to- tions. In our community, we must al- Jealous of the special relationship that sake of Heaven, ward each other. Korach displayed none ways strive to make sure our arguments Moses has with God and Aaron’s role as the legacy of its of these characteristics when he chal- are for the sake of Heaven and will have the high priest, Korach instigates a re- participants will lenged Moses and Aaron. enduring effects. We do this by arguing volt against their leadership with the not endure. What The lessons of Korach, and of Hillel with respectful dialogue and an open- cry, “All the people are holy, why do you Rabbi Michael Wolk is an argument for and Shammai, about how to argue are ness to other people’s ideas. It is the only raise yourselves up over the congrega- the sake of Heav- relevant for us today in many contexts. way for our community to endure into tion of God?” en? That of Beit Hillel and Beit Sham- First and foremost is the political climate the future. At the end of the story, after a public mai. What is an argument that is not for in America. When supporters of rival confrontation, God opens a pit in the the sake of Heaven? That of Korach and political parties or politicians demonize (Rabbi Michael Wolk is the spiritual ground that swallows up Korach and his his followers.” each other, their arguments become like leader Keneseth Israel Congregation.) followers and affirms Moses and Aaron’s Hillel and Shammai were rabbis who that of Korach. Neither the people nor place as the rightful leaders. lived in the first century of the common their ideas will endure and benefit our Shabbat candles should be lit on the Korach is perceived negatively in Jew- era and were known to disagree on vir- country. Only arguments characterized following nights and times: June 23 at ish thought. Although his words paint tually every matter of Jewish law. Yet de- by the respect and goodwill of Hillel 8:51 p.m., June 30 at 8:52 p.m., July 7 at him as a populist looking to raise up the spite their ongoing disputes, the Talmud and Shammai stand an actual chance of 8:50 p.m., July 14 at 8:47 p.m., July 21 at common people, his actions reveal that (Eruvin 13b) teaches “that they showed helping citizens of the United States. 8:43 p.m., July 28 at 8:37 p.m. he is only interested in using those peo- love and friendship toward each other.” Closer to home, the same lesson ap- ple to install himself as leader. When contrasted with Korach, these plies to the Jewish community. People In Pirkei Avot (5:17), the rabbis taught, two rabbis are held up as paradigms for often ask why there is so much internal
Compiled by Sarah Harlan fresh fruit. For Community Thursday, July 27 – Matthew Derren- bacher, Torah scholar, will teach. Lunch Thursday, June 29 – Leon Wahba and will include salmon croquettes, rice, Mercedes Nibur will share their experi- coleslaw, roasted veggies, fresh fruit, ences of being born Jewish in an Arab and banana pudding. country. Lunch will include BBQ chick- en, pasta salad with grilled veggies, corn Chavurat Shalom is a communi- on the cob, mixed green salad, fresh ty-wide program for Jewish seniors and fruit, and banana pudding. their friends. The group meets in the Levy Thursday, July 6 – Molly Kaviar from Great Hall of the Klein Center at The Tem- Kentuckians for the Commonwealth ple, 5101 U.S. Highway 42, unless other- will share the good work they’re doing wise designated in the listing. for Kentucky citizens. Lunch will in- Lunch is available at noon for $5, fol- clude veggie lasagna, caesar salad, fresh lowed by the program at 1 p.m. Chef Z is fruit and cheesecake. the caterer for the activities. Contact Sar- Thursday, July 13 – Jennifer Diamond ah Harlan at 502-423-1818 or sarahhar- will be back, accompanied by Daniel [email protected] by the Tuesday of the Worley on guitar – perfect for a sum- week of the activity for reservations. Vege- mer concert. Lunch in the Heideman tarian meals are available if requested. Auditorium will include fried chicken Transportation can be scheduled by tenders, mashed potatoes, green beans, calling Jewish Family & Career Services mixed green salad, fresh fruit and pine- at 502-452-6341. Transportation to Cha- apple upside down cake. The program vurat Shalom is $5 round-trip. will be in the Waller Chapel. Funding for Chavurat Shalom is pro- Thursday, July 20 – Rabbi Gaylia vided by the Jewish Heritage Fund for Ex- Rooks will teach about sacred move- cellence, the Jewish Community of Louis- ment for seniors, and July birthdays and ville, National Council of Jewish Women, anniversaries will be celebrated. Lunch The Temple’s Men of Reform Judaism and will include spaghetti and meatballs, Women of Reform Judaism, and other mixed green salad, garlic bread and donors.
Back to School Bash slated for JFCS
Jewish Family & Career Services will hold its Second Annual Back to School Bash Thursday, August 10, at the JFCS. Last year, 150 students, grades K-12, came to JFCS’ pop-up store to select school supplies. According to Deloitte’s Back to School Survey for 2016, parents needed to spend $360 just for school supplies and required clothing and expect to pay even more this year. For low-income and ref- ugee families, this is nearly an impossi- ble task without the support from orga- nizations such as JFCS. JFCS is looking for donations of new school supplies for any age to be donat- ed. Donations may be dropped at JFCS through the first week of August. Con- tact Lisa Sobel-Berlow at lsobel@jfcslou- Advertise in Community isville.org or 502-452-6341 ext. 116 for more information. 502-418-5845 12 Community Y JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 ARTS Original production Looking for Lilith commission was a challenge Gall-Clayton couldn’t refuse By Shiela Steinman Wallace worked as a server at The Cafe for Sal learn the truth, was commissioned by Editor Emeritus Rubino, as a writing instructor at Jeffer- Louisville’s Pleiades Theatre Company son Community and Technical College and premiered at its 1999 Stars of the Last year, Looking for Lilith The- and as a writing and reading instructor Future New Play Festival. atre Company commissioned Nancy for Jefferson County Public Schools. Gall-Clayton has garnered consider- Gall-Clayton to write a full-length play As she approached her 50th birth- able recognition for her work including for this summer’s Unheard [outloud] day, she explained, “I just happened to grants and residencies through the Ken- Festival, which will celebrate 15 years notice in the Courier-Journal, a contest tucky Foundation for Women, Tennes- of dedication to its mission, “lifting up for 10-minute plays at Actors Theatre. I see Williams Scholarship to Sewanee unheard voices.” wrote my first play about a clinic where Writers Conference and visiting artist For Gall-Clayton, it was a challenge you could special order a baby.” at Ohio State University. She has also she couldn’t refuse. Never had she writ- From over 2,000 entries in the contest, received commissions from Kentucky ten a full-length play in less than a year, Gall-Clayton’s play was chosen as a final- Playwrights Workshop and Bunbury and Looking for Lilith gave her free ist, a feat she has duplicated twice more. Theatre. reign to choose a topic. Encouraged by her success, she set Several of her short plays and mono- After spending a lot of time going out to learn more about the craft, at- logues have been published by One-Act through anthologies in search of a tending workshops and classes. She Play Depot, Motes Books, Dramatic Pub- woman whose work had significant im- became a full-time writer in 2013 and lishing, International Centre for Women pact, but whose story was little known, has written nearly 80 plays to date, six Playwrights, Meriwether Publishing, Gall-Clayton settled on Mary Edwards or seven of which are full length. She’s Smith & Kraus, Western Kentucky Uni- Walker. had plays on stages in 25 states, Canada, versity, Louisville Review (Spalding), Born in 1832 in Oswego, NY, social ac- Australia and Denmark. Jefferson Review, JAC Publishing, and tivism was part of her family’s life. Their Several of her works have Jewish Don Bosco Press. home was a stop on the underground Nancy Gall-Clayton is the author of I’m Wearing My themes. General Orders No. 11, a full- Gall-Clayton and her husband, Jan railroad and Walker and her sisters, Own Clothes, which will debut at Looking for Lilith on length play about General Ulysses S. Morris, have adult twin sons, James and at their father’s insistence, wore boy’s July 14. (photo provided by Nancy Gall-Clayton) Grant’s order banishing all Jews from Joshua. clothing when doing chores around the Tecumseh Sherman, President Abra- his military district during the Civil farm because corsets, hoops and crino- ham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. War, premiered at The J in 2003 with lines were not practical and, he believed, With a long list of characters and John Leffert directing. Want to go? “bad for their health,” Gall-Clayton ex- many actors playing multiple roles, the The Snowflake Theory, a full-length I’m Wearing My Own Clothes plained. resulting work, I’m Wearing My Own intergenerational romantic comedy will be performed at The Clif- Walker went on to become a surgeon, Clothes, is now in rehearsal. While about birth, technology, marrying out- ton Center Friday, July 14, at 8 maintaining the practice of wearing Gall-Clayton is the author, she describes side one’s faith and family connections p.m.; Sunday, July 16, at 3 p.m.; practical trousers under a coat with the work as a collaboration that has un- premiered at the Bard’s Town in Louis- Thursday, July 20, at 7:30 p.m. skirt. She worked for the Union during dergone many rewrites with input from ville, had readings at Jewish Communi- and Sunday, July 23, at 3 p.m. the Civil War and spent four months in a director Kathi E.B. Ellis and members ty Centers in California and Cincinnati The Unheard [outloud] Festival, Confederate prison. of the cast. Each revision has improved and was a finalist in the Coe College which runs from July 13-23. For An untiring advocate for equality, the final product. Playwriting Festival. details and ticket information, Walker was a suffragist and an aboli- An attorney, Gall-Clayton had a suc- Discovery, a one-act play about a teen go to lookingforlilith.org/un- tionist. She also believed in abortion. cessful practice representing children, who feels Jewish and breaks into the heardoutloud/. She worked with General William which she closed in 1996. She also agency that handled her adoption to JUNE 23, 2017 Y 29 SIVAN 5777 Y Community 13