“Inner Strength, Bold Action” Theme of 18Th Annual Thanksgiving Diversity Breakfast by STEPHEN E

WESTCHESTER December 2019 -- Kislev-Tevet 5780, Volume 25, Issue 12

1994-2019

JewishWESTCHESTER COUNTY’S ONLY MONTHLY JEWISHLife NEWSPAPER “Inner Strength, Bold Action” Theme of 18th Annual Thanksgiving Diversity Breakfast BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN Shaffieq Chace, Islamic Center of New Rochelle; Richard Leroy, Shaa- The 18th Annual Diversity ray Tefila, Bedford Corners and Breakfast with theme, “Inner Mecca Santana, Westchester Medi- Strength, Bold Action,” was held cal Center Health Network. on Thursday, November 21 at West- “Let us begin with the univer- chester Community College (WCC), sal teaching, “Love thy neighbor as sponsored by AJC Westchester/ thyself,” Keynote Speaker Rabbi Jef- Fairfield (event founder); First Bap- frey Segelman stated. “The point of tist Church of White Plains; Pace this commandment is love of self. University; Peace Islands Insti- The verse is not speaking about the tute; Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, outcome, it speaks about the pro- Westchester and Fairfield, WCC cess. Jewish commentary teaches and Westchester Jewish Council, us to look in the proverbial mirror attended by over 400 citizens from and see things that we like and don’t surrounding communities. like, strength of character and flaws. Honored were Imam Mohamed “In order for me as a Jew to Honoree Imam Mohamed Shaffieq Chace, Honoree Richard Leroy, Shaaray Tefila, reach out to others I first Islamic Center of New Rochelle Bedford Corners must love my Judaism. I also Scott Richman, Director, AJC Westchester/ see things in Judaism that Fairfield are disturbing as well. I don’t is beautiful about your faith. This is let the flaws blind me to what spiritual maturity.” is absolutely amazing about “This is a wonderful coming my faith. Yes, I see things in together of people of all different other faiths that confuse me faiths and traditions to find com- but I am secure in the love of mon ground and celebrate all of the my own traditions...We ask, things we can be thankful for…,” is the sky blue? County Executive George Latimer “If you ask a molecu- commented. lar physicist, the sky is not “I think that we are especially blue and has no color at all. focused of on the concept of toler- We know that there can be ance, understanding and opposition more than one truth. It does of any acts of bigotry and hate that not mean that I have to be- unfortunately are on the rise in this grudge your faith. When country and around the world. We Westchester Jewish Council Executive Director Elliot I accept the sky is blue or are here together for understanding Forchheimer; Westchester County Executive George not blue, I can focus what Stephne Behrend, President, and love,” NYS Assemblyman Steve Mecca Santana, Westchester Medical Center Latimer AJC Westchester/Fairfield Otis concluded. Health Network

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Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 2 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Anti-Semitism: What We Face FBI Reports Jews Were Target of Most and How We Fight It Religion-Based Hate Crimes in 2018 ADL (the Anti-Defama- ately pass the Khalid Jabara tion League) recently called and Heather Heyer National On January 8, 2020, UJA Federation of New York and West- on lawmakers and law en- Opposition to Hate, Assault, chester Jewish Council will present a discussion on the rise of forcement authorities to and Threats to Equality (NO anti-Semitism here and abroad. Learn how UJA-Federation of take action to address the HATE) Act. By improving New York and its nonprofit partner Westchester Jewish Council deeply disturbing climate hate crime training, pre- are working to combat hatred, provide enhanced security to Jew- of hate in the United States vention, best practices, and ish institutions, and ensure a thriving Westchester Jewish com- after newly released FBI data collection, we can stem munity. data showed that Jews and hate crimes nationwide.” The discussion will feature Mark Weitzman, District Attor- Mark Weitzman Jewish institutions were For 2018, the FBI re- ney Anthony A. Scarpino and Hindy Poupko. Mark Weitzman the overwhelming target of ported: is the director of government affairs for the Simon Wiesenthal religion-based hate crimes • Hate crime murders Center and also the Center’s chief representative to the United last year – as they have been totaled 24, the highest since Nations in New York. every year since 1991. the FBI began tracking and Anthony A. Scarpino, Jr. was elected Westchester County In its annual Hate Crime reporting on hate crimes in District Attorney in 2016. Prior to becoming DA, he was a spe- Statistics Act (HCSA) report, 1991. The increase is attrib- cial agent for the FBI and previously served as a county court and Jonathan A. Greenblatt the FBI found that total hate utable to 2018 having seen state Supreme Court judge for over thirty years. crimes decreased slightly in stitutions in 2018. the deadliest anti-Semitic Hindy Poupko is the deputy chief planning officer at UJA- 2018 after three consecutive “It is unacceptable that hate crime in American his- D.A. Anthony A. Scarpino Federation of New York. Hindy plays a primary role in setting the years of increases. The agen- Jews and Jewish institutions tory, when 11 worshippers course for UJA-Federation’s work in New York and Israel. cy reported 7,120 total hate continue to be at the center were murdered in the three The discussion will be held at 7:30 pm at Temple Israel Cen- crimes in 2018, compared to of religion-based hate crime congregations meeting at ter of White Plains, 280 Old Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains. 7,175 in 2017. While religion- attacks,” said ADL CEO Jona- the Tree of Life Synagogue There is no charge to attend. All are welcome. based hate crimes decreased than Greenblatt. “We need building in Pittsburgh. For more information, contact Susan Scharf Glick at glicks@ by eight percent from 2017, to take concrete action to • Race-based hate ujafedny.org or 914.385.2120 or Shirley Green at greens@ujafed- nearly 60 percent of hate address and combat this sig- crimes were once again the ny.org or 914.385.2125 crime attacks were targeted nificant problem. We strong- most common type of hate

against Jews and Jewish in- ly urge Congress to immedi- continued on page 4 Hindy Poupko

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 3 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Honoring the Legacy of Judge Learned Hand AJC Westchester Fair- Previously, Director Saldaña human trafficking and public open to the public. It is made field presents an Evening of served as the United States corruption. She also served as possible by generous individu- Civil Discourse and Rational Attorney for the Northern Dis- the Deputy Criminal Chief in al and corporate sponsors. For Thought on Thursday, Decem- trict of Texas. In that position, charge of the District’s Major more information or to RSVP, ber 5, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at Pace she led a staff of more than 200 Fraud and Public Corruption contact Vicki Kline, Director University Law School, White employees, including approxi- section. Before joining the of Development at klinev@ajc. Plains. mately 100 attorneys. Prior to Department of Justice, she org or call 914-948-5585. The Great Debate, “Immi- that, she served as an Assistant worked in private practice and AJC’s mission is to en- gration: Where Do We Go From U.S. Attorney for the Northern at the Equal Employment Op- hance the well-being of the Here?” will ask advocates to District of Texas, where she portunity Commission, Hous- Jewish people and Israel, and help get past the divide to con- prosecuted a variety of crimi- ing and Urban Development, to advance human rights and structive proposals that will nal cases, including bank and the Department of Labor. democratic values in the United move our country forward. mortgage fraud, civil rights, This program is free and States and around the world. The evening will also feature a special tribute to Judge Learned Hand by Herb Blecker who knew him. Other speak- Andrew “Art” Arthur Sarah Saldaña Human Rights Educators USA ers will include Andrew “Art” Arthur, who serves as Resi- Claims in Washington, D.C. tember 1994. Judge Arthur is a dent Fellow in Law and Policy From 1994 to 2001, Judge member of the Maryland Bar. Honor HHREC with Award for the Center for Immigration Arthur served in various po- He received a bachelor of arts Studies, a Washington, DC- sitions at the former Immi- degree in 1988 from the Uni- The Human Rights Edu- their schools with action plans based research institute that gration and Naturalization versity of Virginia and a juris cators USA (HRE USA) have around a theme of human rights examines the impact of immi- Service, including Assistant doctorate in 1992 from George announced the winners of its activism and actively oppose gration on American society. District Counsel in Baltimore Washington University School 2019 awards. Monica Curca, behaviors like bullying, bigotry, He was appointed as an im- and San Francisco, and As- of Law. founder of Activate Labs, is the and hatred before they become migration judge in November sociate General Counsel in Sarah Saldaña served as recipient of the O’Brien Award a culturally accepted norm. 2006. From July 2001 to Octo- Washington, D.C. He served Director of Immigration and for Human Rights Education The national and in- ber 2006, he served as counsel as an attorney advisor in the Customs Enforcement from for individual achievement ternational increase in to the U.S. House of Represen- Office of the Chief Administra- 2014 to 2017. In that role Di- in the field. Executive Direc- anti-Semitism, racism, Is- tatives, Committee on the Judi- tive Hearing Officer at the -Ex rector.Saldaña advanced ICE’s tor Mille Jasper accepted the lamophobia, homophobia, to- ciary, Subcommittee on Immi- ecutive Office for Immigration mission to promote homeland O’Brien Award for Human gether with hate-related acts gration, Border Security, and Review from June 1992 to Sep- security and public safety. Rights Education for organiza- of violence has prompted the tional achievement on behalf HHREC to develop programs of the Holocaust and Human for teachers, students, and FBI Reports Jews Were Target of Most Religion-Based Hate Crimes Rights Education Center of the whole community on the continued from page 3 White Plains. history of anti-Semitism and crime, as in every previous participation in 2017. In hate crime data from 2004- This year HRE USA will Millie Jasper the symbols and language of year. Nearly 50 percent of addition, at least 85 cities 2018 for states and cities also honor scholar, activist, hate. race-based hate crimes were with populations exceed- with more than 100,000 and pioneer human rights teaching and learning the les- Appreciation from teach- directed against African- ing 100,000 residents either residents. It gives users educator David Shiman with sons of the Holocaust and the er participants testify to the Americans. did not report any data to the ability to navigate hate its Lifetime Achievement right of all people to be treated effectiveness of HHREC’s pro- • Hate crimes directed the FBI or affirmatively re- crimes data and laws at the Award. Established in 2015 in with dignity and respect. To grams with comments like, at LGBTQ individuals in- ported zero hate crimes. national, statewide and city memory of Ed O’Brien, pio- address a lack of state support, “For the last several years, it creased by almost six per- Alabama and Wyoming re- level, and breaks out infor- neer human rights educator, the HHREC took the initia- has been one of the most in- cent, including a signifi- ported zero hate crimes for mation on crimes against a the Edward O’Brien Award tive to develop education and spiring days of the school year cant 42 percent increase 2018. broad spectrum of targeted for Human Rights Education training programs that would for me” and “Woe! What an in crimes directed against “Our nation cannot ad- populations. honor an individual and an or- enable teachers to treat this amazing day at the Human transgender individuals, up dress crimes that we are not The FBI’s findings com- ganization that have made an complex subject sensitively Rights Institute for both stu- from 119 in 2017 to 168 in measuring. ADL is working plement ADL’s annual Audit outstanding contribution to and confidently. dents and teachers! Our stu- 2018. with our coalition and other of Anti-Semitic Incidents for human rights education in the Its programs include dents were inspired and are • Anti-Hispanic hate civil rights, education, and 2018. The Audit documented United States. This year’s win- teacher institutes, biannual looking forward to becoming crimes increased 14 percent, interfaith partners to make 1,879 criminal and non- ners were honored on Mon- Educators Missions to Ger- facilitators!” the third straight year of sure cities report credible criminal incidents against day, November 22, in The Four many and Poland, annual high The 2019 winners of the increased reporting, which data. This starts with train- Jews and Jewish institu- Freedoms Room at Roosevelt school and middle school Hu- O’Brien Awards exemplify the is especially disturbing at a ing our nation’s law enforce- tions. ADL’s Audit counts House, New York City, hosted man Rights Institutes for soph- exhortation of the Convention time ADL and others have ment officers to identify, non-criminal incidents such by Human Rights Educators omores and seventh graders on the Rights of the Child,that documented escalating anti- report, and respond to those as hate speech, flier distri- USA and the Roosevelt House respectively, traveling exhib- education should be directed immigrant rhetoric and big- targeted by hate violence,” bution, and other actions Human Rights Program of its, Holocaust speakers, and to “…responsible life in a free otry. said Greenblatt. “ADL calls that may not be crimes in Hunter College. programs for the community society, in the spirit of under- Despite the decline in on the FBI and Department the state they occur, while The Holocaust and Hu- at large. In 2019 alone, close standing, peace, tolerance, total hate crimes from 2017 of Justice to take similar the FBI only tracks hate man Rights Education Center to 600 students from over 45 equality of sexes, and friend- to 2018, a serious reporting steps with local law en- crimes. has been selected to win the public, private, and parochial ship among all people, ethnic, gap remains. The FBI data forcement agencies and the ADL is the world’s lead- Organizational Achievement high schools learned how to national and religious groups is based on voluntary local courts to address underre- ing anti-hate organization. Award from the HRE-USA, a mobilize their schools and and persons of indigenous ori- law enforcement reporting porting of hate crimes.” Founded in 1913 in response national network dedicated to communities about human gin” to the Bureau. One-hundred ADL has updated its to an escalating climate of building a culture of human rights issues. Human Rights Educators and ten fewer law enforce- interactive hate crime map anti-Semitism and bigotry, rights. Representative of HHREC’s USA is proud to honor Monica ment agencies participated with the latest FBI data. its timeless mission is to The mission of the Ho- programs is Upstander Week, Curca and the Holocaust and in the HCSA program in The map includes links to protect the Jewish people locaust and Human Rights a follow-up to its Human Human Rights Education Cen- 2018, failing to report any every hate crime law on the and to secure justice and Education Center (HHREC) Rights Institutes that encour- ter for their outstanding ef- data, following record-high books in the U.S. and FBI fair treatment for all. of White Plains, is to enhance ages student leaders return to forts to do just that! Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 4 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com House Bipartisan Antisemitism Task Force Praises FBI Representatives Nita federal authorities pre- year ago. Lowey (D-NY), Chris Smith vented a terrible tragedy. “We must work to (R-NJ), Eliot L. Engel (D- “This attempted at- meet this growing threat NY), Kay Granger (R-TX), tack on the Jewish com- and keep our communi- Ted Deutch (D-FL), Randy munity in Colorado is ties safe. It is incumbent Weber (R-TX), Marc Veasey deeply disturbing—and on all of us to reject all (D-TX), and Brian Fitzpat- it’s far from an isolated forms of terror and hate rick (R-PA)—the Co-Chairs incident. Antisemitism and to fight for a future of the House of Representa- and antisemitic violence free of this kind of vio- tives Bipartisan Task Force is on the rise across the lence.” for Combating Anti-Semi- world. According to the tism issued the following Anti-Defamation League, statement on November 7 as this is the 13th time the FBI stopped an attempt- someone in the U.S. has ed bombing of a synagogue been arrested for alleg- Congresswoman Kay Granger in Colorado: edly plotting attacks or Congressman Eliot L. Engel “We applaud the FBI making threats against for thwarting a white su- Congresswoman Nita Lowey the Jewish community premacist’s alleged plans to since the tragic attack on rado. The tireless efforts bomb the Temple Emanuel Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life syn- by law enforcement and synagogue in Pueblo, Colo- agogue a little more than a

Westchester Jewish Center Welcomes New Senior Rabbi, Rabbi Jeffrey M. Arnowitz Westchester Jewish Cen- He received his Bachelor of ter (WJC), an egalitarian Con- Science degree Summa Cum servative synagogue on Palm- Laude from the University er and Rockland Avenues in of Pittsburgh majoring in Mamaroneck, has announced Child Development and Child that Rabbi Jeffrey M. Arnow- Care, a social work degree. itz will be officially installed After college, Rabbi Arnowitz as Senior Rabbi at a congre- studied at the Conservative gation-wide event at the Cen- Yeshiva in Jerusalem before ter on December 8, 2019 at beginning his rabbinic stud- 10:30am. Rabbi Arnowitz be- ies at The Jewish Theological gan his tenure at WJC on July Seminary of America, where 1, 2019. he was ordained in 2003. “Rabbi Arnowitz has He is a member of the been leading our congrega- Rabbinical Assembly and he tion for the past four months, Rabbi Jeffrey M. Arnowitz completed the STAR PEER and we’ve welcomed his in- Rabbinic Leadership program. sights, leadership and deep Rabbi Arnowitz served on nu- spirituality,” said Seth Schaf- fers to the number of mitzvot merous community boards ler, President, Westchester that are listed in the Torah. in the Jewish communities Jewish Center. “The Decem- “I am humbled and hon- where he has served and was ber 8 installation is our of- ored to serve Westchester a founding member of Hands ficial welcome in which we Jewish Center,” said Arnow- United Building Bridges, a dia- invite our entire community itz. “Standing on the shoul- logue group for interfaith cler- to come celebrate this mo- ders of past spiritual leaders, gy on topics related to race. He mentous occasion.” I seek to move the congrega- is a lover of the outdoors and The December 8 event tion forward to embrace Con- is particularly fond of hik- will feature speeches and mu- servative Judaism today and ing and swimming and is an sic by several of Rabbi Arnow- prepare for its future. It’s my ardent reader of the National itz’s closest mentors, study mission to make sure we have Geographic Magazine. Rabbi partners and friends and will a vibrant synagogue, both Arnowitz and his wife Tami culminate in a special instal- spiritually and culturally, to are the proud parents of four lation ritual. It will also mark meet the needs of our entire sons, Elijah, Simeon, Gabriel, the culmination of WJC’s 613 membership and greater local and Isaac. Mitzvah Campaign, an ini- community.” Rabbi Arnowitz was se- tiative that Rabbi Arnowitz For the past eight years, lected after an extensive na- launched upon his arrival to Rabbi Arnowitz served as the tionwide search, which com- WJC. Rabbi Arnowitz chal- rabbi of Congregation Beth menced when Rabbi Jeffrey lenged the entire WJC com- El in Norfolk, VA. Prior to Segelman announced his re- munity to collectively perform that he was associate rabbi tirement after 32 years. Rabbi 613 mitzvot, Jewish practices of Congregation Beth El in Arnowitz will be the third se- and acts of kindness, by the Voorhees, New Jersey, where nior rabbi to lead the congre- time he was installed; 613 re- he served from 2003 to 2011. gation in over seventy years.

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 5 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com december 24 december 15

On December 24, at 7pm, NYC Jewish Tours will visit Bialystoker Synagogue, 7-11 On December 15, Temple Shaaray Tefila, 89 Baldwin Road, Bedford Corners, Willet Street, Bialystocker Place, NYC, to discover the Tiffany inspired stained glass will host The Maccabeats in Concert at 4pm. For tickets visit shaaraytefila.org windows and beautiful murals. For details call 212-374-4100 december calendar

tickets call 212-691-6500 Save the date—At 7:30pm, December 8 ish Center and PJ Library will At 8pm, David Broza and Friends UPCOMING January 8, 2020-UJA Federa- At 3pm, The Westchester Phil- present Fun Folk Tales: What is will perform in The Lowenstein Congressman Eliot Engel’s of- The JCC of Mid Westchester, tion of New York in Westches- harmonic will present Rachael Chanukah, a program for pre- Auditorium of Temple Emanu-El, fice will hold special monthly 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale, ter and Westchester Jewish Worby conducting Hye Jin Kim schoolers, featuring 1 East 65th Street at Fifth Avenue, Congress in your Neighbor- will offer Winter and Spring Council will host a discussion on piano and featuring the mem- hands on activities and songs NYC. For tickets call 212-744- hood office hours at Mama- classes for SAT and ACT ex- on the Rise of anti-Semitism at bers of Ballet Hispanico at The about Jewish culture, heritage 1400. roneck Town Center, 740 ams starting December 8. Visit Temple Israel Center of White Performing Arts Center, Purchase and history at the library, 530 Co- West Boston Post Road on jccmw.org/teens/academic- Plains, 280 Old Mamaroneck College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, lonial Avenue, Pelham. Call 738- December 22 December 12 and at Grinton I. center-college-prep/ for times Road, White Plains. For details Purchase. For tickets call 251- 1234 for details. The Chabad of the Rivertowns Will Library, 1500 Central Park and dates. call 385-2120. 6200. will host a Chanukah Celebra- Avenue, Mezzanine Level, Yon- December 15 tion at Ridge Hill, Yonkers, from kers, on December 17, from at The 25th Annual Judaica At 2pm., Join UJA Federation’s At 4pm, Kol Rinah, The Jewish 1-4pm. For details call 693-6100. 10am-4pm. Call 699-4100 to Art Show will be held at Bet DECEMBER annual Gift of Chanukah Celebra- Chorale of Westchester presents schedule an appointment. Am Shalom Synagogue, 295 December 5 tion at Kittay House in the Bronx Chanukah Joy, a concert of holi- December 23 Soundview Avenue, White At 7pm, Westchester Reform and share time with seniors. day favorites and other choral de- At 6pm, The Chabad of Yonkers A Mussar group is forming Plains, on December 7 from Temple, 255 Mamaroneck Road, RSVP to [email protected] or lights at Temple Beth Abraham, Rabbi will light the Menorah at in New Rochelle at 10am 8-11pm and December 8 from Scarsdale will hold JNF’s 7th An- call 385-2120 25 Leroy Avenue, Tarrytown. Cross County Shopping Center Wednesday mornings for 10 10am to 5:30 pm. For details nual Water and Wine reception. Order tickets online at kolrinah- in Yonkers near New York and sessions starting January 8, call 946-8851 For details contact Sharon Lewis, December 10 chorale.org Company. For information call 2020. To enroll contact rabbi- [email protected] or 212- At 5:30pm, ShopRite of New Ro- 698-9571 [email protected] From December 20-22, enjoy 879-9300 x510 chelle, 8 Joyce Road and Palmer At 3pm, The Symphony of West- Shen Yun at The Performing Avenue, New Rochelle, will fea- chester will perform at Iona’s December 26 and 30 J-Kids, a group of Jewish and Arts Center, Purchase College, At 7pm, AJC Westchester Fair- ture a Diabetes Friendly Cook- Christopher J. Murphy Audito- White Plains Performing Arts interfaith families with children 735 Anderson Hill Road, Pur- field will present The Great De- ing Class. To register call Torie at rium, 715 North Avenue, New Center, 11 City Place, White ages 2-5 meets one Sunday chase. Tickets available online bate—Immigration, Where Do 845-475-4940. Rochelle, with an all Baroque Plains, will feature a production morning each month at 10am, at Shen Yun.com/NY We Go From Here? Honoring the program featuring Alexander of The Magic Dreidels on Decem- for creative and social activi- Legacy of Judge Learned Hand December 12 Abayev. For tickets call 654-4926. ber 26 at 2pm and December 30 ties at First Hebrew, 1821 Main Save the date—On February at Pace University Law School, At 6:30 pm, The JCC of Mid- at 11am. For tickets go online to Street, Peekskill. RSVP required 1, 2020, Westchester Jew- White Plains. For more informa- Westchester, 999 Wilmot Road, December 19 wppac.com or call 328-1600 at 739-0500 ish Council will celebrate tion call Vicki Kline at 948-5585 Scarsdale will host their Winter The Neuberger Museum of Art, their 44th Anniversary Gala at Gala called Peace Love and JCC- 735 Anderson Hill Road, Pur- December 30 On December 18-20 at 7:30pm Temple Israel Center of White December 7 MW featuring Steve Katz, found- chase, will host Open Studios The JCC of Mid Westchester, and December 21 at 2 and 7:30 Plains, 280 Old Mamaroneck At 8pm, Fleetwood Synagogue, ing member of Blood, Sweat and for Kids ages 3-5 at 1pm or Ages 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale pm, Israeli born artistic Direc- Road, at 7:15pm, honoring Da- 11 Broad Street, Mt. Vernon, will Tears entertaining. RSVP to 472- 6-10 at 4pm, an art class creating will host a Chanukah Chopped tor, Zvi Gotheiner, will lead a vid A. Alpert, Arlene Kleinberg, host a Comedy Night with dairy 3300. found object sculptures inspired Style Cooking Competition from contemporary dance program Saul Singer, Daniel Singer and desserts and refreshments. For by Engels the Artist. Call 251- 2-4pm and participants will learn call Zvi Dance: Maim at The David Singer with entertain- tickets go to fleetwoodsyna- December 13 6100 to RSVP how to make traditional latkes. New York Live Arts Theater, ment by Cory Kahaney. Call gogue.org/rsvp At 10:15 am, The Town of Pel- Space is limited, pre-registration 219 West 19th Street, NYC. For 328-7001 for tickets. ham Public Library, Pelham Jew- required to jccmw.org/j-steam

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 6 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards Hadar Orshalimy, From The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam directly, or are nominated for the Applications will be evaluated Awards celebrate tikkun olam , or award by a teacher, rabbi, coun- based upon: Proven commitment “repairing the world.” The Helen selor or other member of their to the value and practice of tikkun Westchester to a Rising Star Diller Family Foundation knows community who can speak to their olam; Demonstration of vision and that supporting Jewish teen lead- leadership skills and the value of creativity; Effective development ership today means creating and their project. The application pro- and implementation of a project inspiring future generations of cess can only be completed via the or organization ; Dedication to the strong Jewish leaders in the global website. There is no fee to apply or project over time ; Ability to impact community. The Awards provide nominate. a growing number of individuals $36,000 for each recipient so that Teens between the ages of and/or engage a growing number they may use it to further their 13–19 may apply as of the applica- of individuals in the project, either project or education. Applicants tion deadline, January 8, 2020, who as partners, participants or ben- must demonstrate leadership via are: • serving in a leadership role on eficiaries ; Ability to articulate the a specific community service proj- a project/initiative aimed at repair- history, meaning and significance ect that is already underway. Ap- ing the world; Self-identify as Jew- of the project, its goals, impact and plications presenting a project that ish ; Volunteering without any com- potential to engage others. has not yet been initiated will not pensation ; Residents of the United To learn more or to apply, be considered. Examples of past States. Teens are not eligible for the visit dillerteenawards.org. To con- recipients’ work can be found at award if they have a sibling who has tact directly, contact Lindsay Mer- www.dillerteenawards.org. received a Diller Teen Tikkun Olam baum, [email protected] (415) Applicants may either apply Award in the preceding five years. 512-6438.

STAFF REPORT Was You,” featuring an all star IDF, Hadar spent two years at NYC band of Jewish musi- the Rimon School of Jazz and Israeli American vocal- cians. “I recently discovered Contemporary Music in Tel ist Hadar Orshalimy, got her the incredible contribution of Aviv before moving to Bos- start locally, at Larchmont Jewish composers to the dis- ton to complete her degree HAPPY Temple as a music specialist, tinctly American invention of at Berklee College of Music, then went on to Temple Israel Jazz and The Great American where she graduated with of New Rochelle as a canto- Songbook, while preparing honors. rial soloist. “I’ve always had to perform for receptions for With a career defined a sweet spot in my heart for some major dignitaries such by reinvention including TV Chanukah the Westchester Jewish com- as President Barak Obama, appearances on programs munity!” she believes. “Larch- President Bill Clinton and such as Kochav Nolad (“Israeli mont Temple gave me my first Ehud Barack, to name a few,” Idol”), Hadar has been mak- break in the Jewish world! she notes. “I decided I wanted ing a name for herself in New The incredible team at Larch- to honor and shine a new light York City as a songwriter and mont Temple took a chance on on the Jewish composers by recording artist with credits me and gave me a job. After a recording an album of old jazz on more than ten commercial couple of great years of mak- standards.” releases. She is a cowriter and ing music with children and In May of 2019, less than vocalist on four of her hus- teens, I gained a ton of valu- five weeks since first con- band Sheldon Low’s albums, able experience. I was ready to ceiving the idea to create an which have sold over 100k share my voice and passion for album, Hadar finished record- copies to date. In 2013, Hadar Jewish music in a more adult ing 10-songs of “Standards.” received her first placement way. Produced by Robert L Smith, in film for her original compo- “My time at Temple Is- “It Never Was You,” features sition, “Take Me Home,” pro- rael was incredibly meaning- a NYC-based band of Jewish duced by Robopop. Following ful and crucial to where I am musicians that include Yaniv up on that success, in 2016 today. Cantor Erik Contzius Taubenhouse, Ronen Itzik, Hadar and Sheldon formed gave me my first real High Sam Sadigursky and Danny pop-folk duo, “We Are The Holiday gig as a soloist. He sat Weller. Some of the memo- Northern Lights,” and have me down with a binder of 50 rable songs on the record are I since completed four nation- pieces of music and told me Got Rhythm, Bewitched, Both- al tours and received three to go home and learn them! ered and Bewildered, Septem- placements in the TV series, CONGRESSMAN And for an entire month, I ber Song and Come Rain or Startup, starring Adam Brody, did!” she explains. “That ex- Come Shine. Martin Freeman and Ron Perl- perience alone has shaped Born and raised in Tel man. my career and taught me how Aviv, Hadar’s early singing ca- Between writing, record- to work efficiently and with reer began with appearances ing, and performing, Hadar self- discipline. Thanks to that on national Israeli television, can be seen regularly singing experience, I now lead High radio, and sporting events. for Shabbat and High Holi- EElliioott Engell Holiday services in NYC.” Upon completing her manda- day services at Temple Israel engelforcongress.com Hadar has just recorded tory army service as a nuclear, of the City of New York and a new Jazz album by Jewish biological and chemical war- Temple Emanu-El of the City Paid for by Engel for Congress composers called “It Never fare defense trainer in the of New York.

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 7 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Westchester Teens Represent UJA Federation of New York at Tree of Life Commemoration

(l-r) Teens from Calvary Episcopal Church (holding shirts) met with J-Teen Leadership Westchester delegates Ethan Wolland (Bedford), Yadid Orlow (White Plains), Alyssa Harris (Pawling, NY), Guy Felixbrodt (J-Teen Leadership Director), Kate Solomon (NYC), Jake Goldman (Armonk), Caroline Mayer (Rye).

J-Teen Leadership, and representing J-Teen Leader- J-Teen Leadership, a pro- Center for Youth Philanthropy ship, a program of UJA, were gram of UJA-Federation of New and Leadership represented part of delegation. York, is a community service, UJA-Federation of New York as “UJA’s presence was loud leadership development pro- a teen delegation to Pittsburgh and clear with us being there, gram for Jewish high school on Sunday, October 27, 2019, our actions and intentions. It students from all backgrounds the one-year anniversary of the was one of the most emotion- and affiliations who want to Tree of Life synagogue tragedy. ally difficult memorials I’ve make a difference in the world The teens experienced ever attended, but there is today. Teen-led local projects interfaith learning at a mosque no way to fight hate without and long-distance learning and a church, volunteered showing up”, commented Guy service trips are meaningful with a local Jewish organiza- Felixbrodt, Director, J-Teen and fun, and provide a plat- tion, visited the Tree of Life Leadership. “I was so proud of form for teens to develop a col- (l-r) Back- Guy Felixbrodt (J-Teen Leadership) Director, Kate Solomon (New York City), Kadijah Spence (J-Teen Leader- synagogue, and attended the our teens’ commitment, man- lective voice, connect to other ship Social Justice Coach), Ethan Wolland (Bedford), Caroline Mayer (Rye), Alyssa Harris (Pawling), Yadid Orlow (White community memorial. nerism and dedication despite teens and become change Plains), Jake Goldman (Armonk) Five Westchester teens of all the challenges.” agents in repairing the world. Scarsdale Women Join Together for a Morning of Inspiration UJA-Federation of New place. The event took place on lenges she faced and how she keynote address, highlighting, York’s Scarsdale Women spent Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at was able to work towards her through storytelling, how to an inspirational morning with Shaarei Tikvah in Scarsdale. recovery. Lebovitz, the co- live and give by example and Alison Goldstein Lebovitz, a Attendees also heard founder and president of One pass our values on to the next speaker, author, television from a former resident at the Clip at a Time, a nonprofit generation. host, and nonprofit executive Mann Center, a residential that promotes student ac- “My parents instilled in who believes each of us has treatment center run by UJA tivism and supports service me the importance of giving the power and responsibil- nonprofit partner the Jewish learning in classrooms across back. That’s why I am here to- ity to make this world a better Board, who shared the chal- North America, delivered the day, and why I have been active in UJA for many years,” said Mauri Zemachson. “From caring for Holocaust survivors and helping families move from crisis to stability, to building a thriving Jewish community for the future and strengthening Israel, UJA focuses on issues that are making headlines, and those that have been on our Back row, l-r: Allyson Simon, Rochelle Waldman, Vivian Sklar, radar for years”, commented Mauri Zemachson, Kate Eichel, Leslie Klein. Front row, l-r: Alison Lebovitz, Kate Eichel. Zemachson and Michelle Kantor, Jodi Boockvar, Allison Friedland (All reside in Scarsdale, Eichel co-chair the UJA Scars- except keynote speaker, Alison Lebovitz) dale board and both reside in Scarsdale. Board. In addition to the Jew- for the hungry, shelter for the A portion of the funds ish Board, UJA-Federation homeless, independence for Chanukah raised at the event will be used supports a network of more the elderly, jobs for the unem- to fund Thanksgiving meals than 80 core partners and ployed, as well as stimulating Specials! for the residents of residential hundreds of other nonprofit education programs for people treatment centers supported organizations, large and small. in New York, in Israel, and in by UJA through the Jewish These nonprofits provide food nearly 70 countries.

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 8 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 9 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Celebrate the Holiday with the Cheesy Sweet Potato Latkes for Hanukkah Recipe by Jewish Museum JEWLISH BY JAMIE Geller INGREDIENTS • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled • 3 green onions, chopped + 1 more for garnishing • 2 eggs • 3 tablespoons flour • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • ½ teaspoon black pepper • 4 ounces (110 gram) shredded cheese of your choice or mozzarella • Olive oil, for frying • Sour cream for garnishing

PREPARATION 1. Grate the peeled sweet potatoes using a hand grater or a grater attachment on a food processor. 2. Place the grated sweet potatoes in a kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Sweet potatoes are tough, so use your muscles! The more you squeeze, the crispier the latkes. 3. Add the potatoes to a large bowl along with the green onions, eggs, flour, salt and pepper. Mix. 4. Add oil to a large frying pan, so the oil covers the surface of the pan. Bring to low-medium heat. Sweet potatoes need to be cooked at a lower temperature and for more time than regular potatoes. Once the oil starts to shimmer, place a spoonful of the mixture in the pan. Press it down with the back of the spoon, trying to keep the latke in a circular shape. Place a pinch of shredded cheese on top of the latke. Place another spoonful of the mixture on top and press it down again with the back of the spoon. Cook on each side for 5-7 minutes. *Remember, the oil shouldn’t be too hot. If the latkes are burning after 5 minutes, turn the heat down a little. 5. Place the cooked sweet potato latkes on paper towels to drain the excess oil. Garnish with sour cream and chopped green onion. Makes 15 servings.

The Jewish Museum offers many ways tions: Hanukkah Lamps will be on view. to mark the holiday of Hanukkah, which be- On Sunday, December 15, from 11:00 gins at sundown on Sunday, December 22, am–4:00 pm, the Museum will host Hanuk- The Magic Dreidels Come to 2019. Highlights include a display of the kah Family Day for Ages 3 and up. It will be Museum’s renowned collection of Hanuk- a festive afternoon to celebrate Hanukkah kah lamps; special family programs, includ- with pop-rock tunes from Joanie Leeds and White Plains ing the annual Hanukkah Family Day; and the Nightlights; an art workshop where kids Just in time unique menorahs, dreidels, and gift items can build a sculptural Hanukkah lamp with for the holidays, the available in the Jewish Museum Shop. funky found objects and collaborate on a White Plains Per- Hanukkah commemorates the miracu- giant collage; a Hanukkah story drawing forming Arts Cen- lous events and heroic deeds that occurred performance by educator Jeff Hopkins; and ter (WPPAC), 11 City in ancient Israel during a desperate war for an opportunity to make sketches of Hanuk- Place, is presenting Jewish religious and political freedom. The kah lamps from around the globe while on a new production of eight-day festival is observed this year be- a gallery tour of Accumulations: Hanukkah The Magic Dreidels, ginning at sundown on Sunday, December Lamps. directed by Corey 22, concluding at sundown on Monday, De- On Wednesday, December 25, the Mu- Rubel. Created spe- cember 30, 2019. seum will present 2 Concerts with Nefesh cifically for young The Jewish Museum is presenting Ac- Mountain. people, it is a story cumulations: Hanukkah Lamps, featur- The 11:30 am show is for ages 3 and up. where all involved ing over 80 Hanukkah lamps from North The 2:00 pm show is for ages 8 and up. learn and discover America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, ranging Nefesh Mountain (singer Doni Zasloff the close ties of in date from the Renaissance to the pres- and her multi-instrumentalist husband family. When young ent. The Jewish Museum’s collection of Eric Lindberg) present a blend of bluegrass, Jakob meets a gob- From the Minnesota Jewish Theater Company production Hanukkah lamps is the largest and finest Celtic, and Appalachian melodies with a lin who offers him in the world at nearly 1,050 pieces, and was Jewish soul. They will perform original dreidels that work amassed over the 115 years of the Museum’s melodies from their albums Songs from the miracles, the town busybody becomes jealous and Jakob’s father lays down the law. Luckily, the holi- existence. Mountain and Beneath the Open Sky along day works its own magic as everyone learns the true meaning of Hanukkah. The Hanukkah lamps are made of such with Hanukkah favorites. The play was first produced in Minneapolis ten years ago, adapted for the Minnesota Jewish materials as silver, copper, steel, tin, pew- A Vacation Week Drop-In Art Work- Theatre and written by Jenna Zark, adapted from the book, Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, writ- ter, lead, glass, wood, clay, aluminum, con- shop called Luminous Painted Scenes will ten by Eric A. Kimmel, chosen as a Caldecott Honor Book, published by Holiday House. This will be crete, and silicone. Differences in their ma- take place December 22-27, 29 and 30, from the first New York presentation. terials and styles reveal rich details of the 1:00 pm–4:00 pm, for ages 3 and up. “It has the timeless feel of the folk tale Eric Kimmel’s book is based upon – and gives youngsters lives of Jews throughout the world over the In celebration of the glowing light of of all backgrounds a lovely glimpse into the traditions of Hanukkah. Its message of love and miracles course of six hundred years. the Hanukkah holiday, kids will paint lu- is ideal for the holidays, ” reviewed Twin Cities Pioneer Press, Minneapolis. One of seven sections that make up the minous scenes on canvas board inspired by The Magic Dreidels is playing during Hanukkah for two performances: Thursday, December Jewish Museum’s third floor collection ex- the works of Jacob Lawrence, Stuart Davis, 26 at 2:00 pm and Monday December 30 at 11:00 am. Join in the fun for these enchanting tales that hibition, Scenes from the Collection, “Accu- and Georgia O’Keeffe. focus on love, true friendship, and the joy of the holiday season mulations” spotlights an aspect of museum The Jewish Museum is located at 1109 A family friendly event, tickets for The Magic Dreidels are $17 for youth and $22 for adults. For collecting: the accumulation of multiple Fifth Avenue at 92nd Street, New York City. tickets visit the theatre box office Monday-Friday (11am-6pm), purchase tickets online at wppac.com examples of a given work or similar works. For more information call 212.423.3200 or or call 914-328-1600. For group sales contact [email protected]. This is the final Hanukkah that Accumula- visit TheJewishMuseum.org.

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 10 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Celebration Honoring the Achievements of Senior Citizens from 34 Municipalities Westchester County Execu- mitment to our communities. This Among this year’s award community, and the honorees are proached White Plains Hospital’s tive George Latimer will join in hon- longstanding tradition is a simple recipients, six seniors will receive selected by a panel of judges and Cancer Care Unit, and now, the oring the achievements of 74 se- way for us to say thank you, and Special Recognition: Phyllis J. Fe- Hall of Fame members. The names group knits caps for patients. As nior citizens from throughout the recognize top honorees like Sister ingold of New Rochelle, Dr. Alfred of past honorees are engraved on part of the Leadership Team, Fe- County at the 37th Annual Senior Alice and Vincent for their time, John Liotta of Yonkers, Jagadish plaques that are permanently dis- ingold works to offer compelling Citizens Hall of Fame Awards Lun- energy and promise to enhancing Mistry of Tarrytown, Ann Muro of played at the DSPS office in Mount weekday programs, lectures, trips cheon, Friday, December 6 at 11:30 the quality of life of those around Yonkers and David Schwartz of Ar- Vernon. and classes. a.m. at the Westchester Marriott them,” Latimer said. dsley on Hudson. The Westchester Senior Citi- Westchester Senior Citizens in Tarrytown. This year’s program, Seventy Four Westchester DSPS Commissioner Mae zens Hall of Fame – Class of 2019 Hall of Fame – Class of 2019 in- one of the largest to date, names Sr. County residents ages 60 and older Carpenter said the achievements and Top Honors go to Alice Con- cludes the following local residents: Alice Conrad of Mount Vernon and will be inducted into the Hall of of the Hall of Fame honorees show rad, Mount Vernon and Vincent From Bronxville, Ralph Lucariello Vincent Greco of Armonk with top Fame during the luncheon and the importance of people giving Greco, Armonk. and Kerry Walsh; Harrison, Dennis honors. awards presentation. The Class of back to their communities and to Special Recognition goes to M Nardone; Mamaroneck, Bruce “It is my honor to commend 2019 includes 31 nominees over the each other. Carpenter said, “The Phyllis J. Feingold, New Rochelle. S. Meighan ; New Rochelle, Phyllis this active group of Westchester age of 80, and eight over the age of honorees show that age is never a Phyllis J. Feingold She is 81 years old and has lived in J. Feingold and Carol Troum ; Rye, County residents, and induct them 90. One of the honorees is 98 years deterrent to being a vital member Westchester for over 40 years. At Michael Pellegrino Iachetta ; Rye into our Senior Citizens Hall of old, and four pairs of the honorees of our society. In fact, it’s an advan- they bring with them. Their gener- Beth El Synagogue Center, New Brook, Ashok Pahwa ; and Scars- Fame for their dedication and com- are married couples. tage because of the life experiences ous contributions have helped to Rochelle, Feingold excels at mak- dale, Ida Lewin, Howard Blitman, make Westchester County one of ing gourmet lunches, on a lim- Glenn Lucas and Kathy Hurwitz. the most senior-friendly places in ited budget, for the SMART, Senior, The Senior Citizens Hall of the world.” Mature, Adult, Retired Together Fame is sponsored by the West- FIDF Gala for Israeli Soldiers The Senior Hall of Fame be- group. Feingold’s culinary skills chester County Department of gan in 1983, the 300th Anniversary are also tapped for other activities Senior Programs and Services of Westchester County’s founding. including baking holiday cakes for (DSPS); the Westchester County Its purpose was to showcase how homebound seniors in the Bronx Department of Parks, Recreation seniors have contributed to build- and whipping up 100 pancakes for and Conservation; Westchester ing the County. More than 1,100 se- a Community Service breakfast. County Livable Communities and niors have been inducted since. For over 10 years, Phyllis has led a the Westchester Public/Private To be nominated, seniors knitting group. She has sought do- Partnership for Aging Services. must have made significant and nations and gathered yarn, taught Tickets must be purchased enduring contributions to enhance people to knit, and together, they in advance and are $65 each. For Westchester’s quality of life through have created blankets which she ticket sales and more informa- their professional work, volunteer delivers to United Hebrew Home tion, contact Rose Cappa at rose@ achievements or both. Nomina- in New Rochelle. Having been suc- theeventdepartmentny.com or tions are made by members of the cessful with this project she ap- (914) 747-0519.

Sgt. Maj. Motty; gala honorary co-chairs Michael and Lisa Leffell; gala co-chairs Steven Grossblatt and Elise Kamen; FIDF Director of Westchester and Connecticut Anat Chavkin; Ellen Weintraub; FIDF National Chairman Rabbi Peter Weintraub; gala co-chairs Jennifer and Mickey Lowitt; First Lt. Don About 650 members of the Westchester and Connecticut communities gathered Nov. 3 for the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Westchester and Connecticut Gala, “A Night of Heroes,” at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich to salute Israel’s brave men and women in uniform. The FIDF gala raised $800,000 for the organization’s well-being and educational programs for Israeli soldiers. Israeli rocket scientist Ari Sacher, who works in the Air Superiority Systems Division at Rafael, where he develops new air-defense systems and has led the Iron Dome project, delivered the event’s keynote address. A VIP reception with Sacher for sponsors took place before the gala. Co-chairing the event were FIDF supporters Elise Kamen and Steven Grossblatt; Jennifer and Mickey Lowitt; as well as honorary co-chairs, philanthropists Lisa and Michael Leffell. A group of active-duty IDF soldiers participated in the gala. The soldiers included Cpl. Jake, a local Lone Soldier – one who voluntarily enlists in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) without having immediate family in Israel – on a special visit home sponsored by FIDF’s Lone Soldiers Program; Staff Sgt. L., a commander in an elite IDF unit, who is a Lone Soldier from Sitka, Alaska; and Staff Sgt. R., a fighter in a command platoon of the prestigious Golani Brigade. Other distinguished guests included FIDF Chairman Peter Weintraub and Ellen Weintraub from Scarsdale; FIDF National Board member Wendy Moskowitz; FIDF Tri State Executive Director Galit Brichta; and FIDF Westchester/Connecticut Director Anat Chavkin. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) Musical Ensemble performed and Westchester native Annie Rubin- son sang the Star-Spangled Banner. The evening culminated with a contribution auction carried out by FIDF Connecticut Board Member Avi Kaner, and Wendy Moskowitz. “Our annual Westchester/Connecticut gala was a wonderful opportunity for our local supporters to shake hands with the brave men and women of the IDF who directly benefit from FIDF’s programs,” said Chavkin. “Our guests had a chance to hear from Ari Sacher, and personally thank the brave soldiers who risk everything to defend Israel – and Jews worldwide.” Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 11 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Hanukkah: No Special Effects Are Necessary

hardly makes for a Holly- fects are needed to portray help our community thrive. it feels truly miraculous. day. Programming includes: wood blockbuster. these latter-day miracles. If you ask any of these Someone ought to put it in card playing, board games, And that’s precisely the All you need is human ac- folks why they bother to do a movie. Yiddish club and discussion point. Human beings are at tors. what they do, they all will Senior programs in Mt. group, trips, Bible study, and the heart of the Hanukkah It may sound corny, tell you, Hey, it’s natural. Vernon are available for a Jewish holiday celebration. miracle. While scenes of but as the coordinator of That may be so. But it’s also nominal fee, and no one is Transportation is provided BY RABBI MICHAEL GOLDMAN, excavation workers sorting the WJCS Senior Programs, human nature to be selfish. turned away because of infor eligible participants. To COORDINATOR OF WJCS SENIOR through rubble, or of cou- I see miracles and acts of So for me, when every day I ability to pay. A daily hot learn more, contact: Rabbi PROGRAMS IN MT. VERNON riers running through the heroism every day. Our see people acting from the kosher lunch is served on- Michael Goldman, 914-668- countryside might not make programs for senior adults better part of their nature, site Monday through Thurs- 4350; [email protected]. If I say, “Picture a Bibli- for very exiting cinema, this include a range of social, cal miracle,” what probably kind of mundane human educational, and fitness ac- comes to your mind is a work is the heart of the Ha- tivities, Among the WJCS A loved One Has Passed Away, Now What? scene from Exodus: the ten nukah story and message. staff are many brilliant BY BERNARD A. KROOKS, CERTIFIED Cancel them immediately beneficiaries. For some, they plagues, the splitting of the The Sfat Emet, the spir- and hard-working people ELDER LAW ATTORNEY so that they are not used by may also need dates of birth Red Sea, or the revelation itual leader of the Ger Ha- who could be making a lot someone else in a fraudulent and even Social Security at Mount Sinai—a big and sidim who lived in the sec- more money doing some- When someone you manner. numbers. You can speed the vivid scene with a cast of ond half of the 19th century, thing else, but instead they love passes away, it can be a Call the decedent’s law- process up if you start col- thousands, written as if for gives us some telling lan- choose to lead bereavement very emotional and difficult yer to make sure that he/she lecting that information. the big screen. guage to describe miracles groups, counsel people in time for the entire family. is aware of the client’s death One last point we want If I say, “Picture the which come about through distress, manage WJCS’ Fortunately, most of us only and to discuss next steps. to make: if you or anyone else Hanukkah miracle,” the im- ordinary human effort. He group homes, and much have to endure this process While you may not need to had a power of attorney for age is likely to be far more calls them “miracles acting more. I meet volunteers a few times during our lives. meet with the lawyer for a the person who passed away, modest. Cecile B. Demille through nature.” Unlike the with stressful jobs who give While that is the relatively couple of weeks, it is impor- it is no longer valid. While a never made a film based on supernatural events related up their lunch breaks in or- good news, the bad news is tant to at least touch base “durable” power of attorney Hanukkah. He would have in Exodus, the miracles of der to deliver meals to our that we may not be prepared shortly after the person’s survives even if the signer done well with the fighting our subsequent history take homebound seniors, or to to do what needs to be done. death. If you are in town for becomes incapacitated, no scenes at the beginning but place because people, who entertain and educate the Of course, funeral arrange- a short time you might well power of attorney survives what, then, with the narra- are divinely endowed with seniors at our day program. ments must be made, and the want to meet right away, at the signer’s death. Do not tive’s central miracle, the the capacity to make a he- I meet donors who don’t grieving process must begin. least briefly. This raises an- sign checks, make credit story of one day’s supply of roic difference in the world, have to give what they do, However, there are several other question: Do you have card charges, or do anything oil that lasts for eight? That choose to act. No special ef- but choose to in order to other items which may re- to hire the decedent’s lawyer else using the power of attor- quire attention, including se- to assist with the estate ad- ney. In order to have author- curing the house, taking care ministration? The answer is ity to perform these tasks, of pets, forwarding the mail, no; the executor has the right you must be appointed as a among others. Here’s just to work with a lawyer of his/ fiduciary such as a trustee or some of the things that may her choosing. The probate executor of the estate. need to be done: or estate administration pro- Pets need to be taken cess can take anywhere from care of. Will someone take several months to years, de- responsibility for Fido? He pending upon the complex- surely can’t be left in the ity of the estate and the type house alone without food of assets he/she held at the or water. If a pet trust was time of death. set up for Fido, then there Regardless of which law- should be a source of funds yer is selected, you should to take care of him. If not, assemble a list of bank ac- then this needs to be ad- counts, annuities, stocks, dressed. bonds, mutual funds, bro- Make sure that the kerage accounts, real estate house or residence is se- and all other assets. This cure. Someone should turn will speed the process up im- Bernard A. Krooks, Esq., the lights on and off every measurably. It will likely also is a founding partner of Litt- day, pick up the mail, cancel make it much easier for the man Krooks LLP and has been newspapers, etc. Locks may lawyer to realistically esti- honored as one of the “Best need to be changed, especial- mate the cost and time to get Lawyers” in America for each ly if there were caregivers or the probate (or trust) admin- of the last seven years. He is others who had access to the istration completed. Also, past President of the National house while the decedent prepare a list of all creditors. Academy of Elder Law Attor- was alive. You will need a number neys (NAELA) and past Presi- The refrigerator needs of death certificates. These dent of the New York Chapter to be cleaned out and the are easy to obtain right after of NAELA. Mr. Krooks has also house otherwise needs to death and you should make served as chair of the Elder be maintained; otherwise, sure you have enough. The Law Section of the New York significant other problems funeral home can assist you State Bar Association. He has could arise. in this regard. It’s always bet- been selected as a “New York Destroy credit cards ter to get a few more than you Super Lawyer” since 2006. in the decedent’s name. Do think are necessary. Mr. Krooks may be reached at not attempt to charge the fu- At some point the law- (914-684-2100) or by visiting neral bill or other items on yers will need names and ad- the firm’s website at www.el- the decedent’s credit card. dresses for all the heirs and derlawnewyork.com. Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 12 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Real Estate Matters by John E. Baer, SRES, SRS The New Blockbuster Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 On June 14, 2019, Gov- • Any security deposit ant via certified mail. Any is unable to secure suitable of the previous 3-day Notice. ernor Andrew Cuomo signed cannot exceed the amount late fees charged for failure housing in the same neigh- The 14-day Notice can re- the Housing Stability and of one month’s rent and to pay rent may not exceed borhood as the leased prem- quest past-due “rent” only; Tenant Protection Act of must be returned to a tenant either $50 or 5 percent of the ises. no late fees or other charges 2019 (“Law”) into law. The within 14 days of the end of rent due, whichever is less. • Unlawful attempts may be included. Law makes sweeping chang- the tenancy minus any non- • A landlord must give to evict a tenant are now In summary, the above John E. Baer, SRES, SRS is a es to several important as- payment of rent or utilities, a tenant written notice of classified as Class A misde- changes are only a few of NYS licensed real estate salesper- pects of landlord-tenant law costs associated with moving an intent to renew the lease meanors. Each violation of the highlights of this very son associated with Berkshire Ha- in New York State, including or storing the tenant’s prop- with a rent increase of 5 per- the statute is a separate of- extensive new law. If you are thaway HomeServices Westches- eviction proceedings. erty, and/or costs associated cent or higher than the cur- fense, punishable by $1,000 planning to be a tenant, or if ter Properties of Scarsdale and with damage to the leased rent rent rate, or an intent to $10,000 in fines. you are a landlord, I strongly Larchmont. In the last two years Changes Affecting the premises, other than general not to renew the lease. The • If seeking to evict a suggest you seek legal advice he earned the “Top Selling Award” Application Process and “wear and tear.” length of the notice period tenant for non-payment of from a real estate attorney seven times in the Scarsdale of- Beginning of a Tenancy depends on the length of the rent, a landlord must give a regarding the effects of this fice. Call 844-2059. His website is • A landlord may not Changes Affecting the tenancy. tenant 14-day Notice instead new law. www.WestchesterHomes.info. charge application fees, ex- Tenancy cept for the actual cost of • A landlord must pro- Changes Affecting the Evic- Joel Seligman Honored for Commitment to Education background and/or credit vide a tenant with a written tion Process and End of a checks, and such fees are receipt containing certain Tenancy and Awareness During Organ Donor Enrollment Day capped at $20. information of payments • The Law redefines the • Denial on the basis made in any form other than term “rent” to include only On Organ Donor Enrollment Day, Helen that a prospective tenant by personal check. However, the amount charged for fair Irving, President & CEO of LiveOnNY, presented was involved in prior land- if a tenant is paying by per- use and occupancy. As such, Northern Westchester Hospital (NWH) Presi- lord-tenant disputes is pro- sonal check and requests a late fees and other charges dent and CEO, Joel Seligman, with the Make A hibited. written receipt, then a land- cannot be included as “rent” Difference award for his continued support of • After a lease is signed lord must provide a written even when categorized by organ donation. Seligman, a member of Shaa- by a landlord and a tenant, receipt. the lease as “additional rent” ray Tefila of Westchester, was honored for his but before the tenant moves • A landlord may not and cannot be recovered in a commitment to raising awareness, providing into the leased premises, a charge any fees for late rent summary (eviction) proceed- education and registering lifesaving donors. As- landlord must offer the ten- until more than five (5) days ing. semblyman David Buchwald, Janet Ocasio from ant the opportunity to in- have passed since the date • The Law now permits Transplant Support Organization, and Mount spect the leased premises to the rent was due, and the a court to stay a warrant for Kisco Mayor Gina Picinich were also on hand to determine the condition of landlord sends a notice of up to one (1) year if a tenant show their support and appreciation. (L-R): New York State Assemblyman David Buchwald, Janet Ocasio the property. failure to pay rent to the ten- establishes that he or she NWH received Platinum status from Li- of the Transplant Support Organization; NWH President and CEO veOnNY for four years in a row for having the Joel Seligman; Mount Kisco Mayor Gina Picinich; and LiveOnNY largest effort to increase the number of regis- President and CEO, Helen Irving tered donors at a community hospital. New York State has the lowest rate of registered eligible organ donors in the country. As part of the event, NWH hosted Palliative Care Leaders Assess the Future an organ donation enrollment table. The Collaborative for Pal- palliative and social care with- president of the Hastings Cen- LiveOnNY is a nonprofit, federally designated organ procurement organization (OPO) dedicated to saving liative Care, in partnership in a global framework of ethics ter. lives, providing comfort, and strengthening legacies through organ, eye, and tissue donation. The OPO, which with The Hastings Center, and ethical practice. Collaborative president was established in 1978, serves a culturally and ethnically diverse population of 13 million residents in New York University of Rochester Fin- In keeping with the con- Mary Beth Quaranta Mor- City, Long Island and the lower Hudson Valley. Working closely with transplant centers and hospitals, LiveO- ger Lakes Geriatrics Education ference focus on ethics, the rissey, PhD, JD, MPH, Fellow, nNY coordinates organ, eye, and tissue donation for transplant, educates the public and healthcare professionals Center (FLGEC), and Calvary opening plenary session will Global Healthcare Innovation about donation and transplantation, and promotes the importance of signing up on the New York State Donate Hospital, will host its annual feature a distinguished panel Management Center, Fordham Life Registry. conference this December 11th addressing: The Troubled University, will also moderate at Iona College, New Rochelle, Dream of Life: Daniel Calla- the keynote session discussion titled The Next Generation han’s Legacy. Callahan is the with Thomas V. Caprio, MD, of Palliative Care: Integrating co-founder of The Hastings MPH, MS, CMD, FLGEC, and Palliative and Social Ethics of Center, a pioneering bioethics Christopher Comfort, MD, Cal- Care.” research institute. vary Hospital. In just 15 years, the num- Three Hastings Center Other conference sym- ber of Americans over 65 will Fellows, in the following or- posia include palliative ap- outnumber children. The der, will deliver keynote ad- proaches to dementia care and need to confront aging issues is dresses: Bruce Jennings, MA, building palliative environ- growing ever more pressing as Adjunct Associate Professor, ments that mitigate suffering we face additional challenges Vanderbilt University Center across all care settings and wrought by the contribution of for Biomedical Ethics and So- communities, and expanding human agency to heightened ciety; and Senior Advisor, The palliative care education and suffering, increasing inequal- Hastings Center; Joseph J. training. ity and other threats to health. Fins, MD, MACP, FRCP, The E. For more information, Palliative care is a transfor- William Davis, Jr., M.D., Pro- visit: www.urmc.rochester. mative approach to care for fessor of Medical Ethics, and edu/medicine/geriatrics/fl- persons with serious illness Chief, Division of Medical Eth- gec/educational-events.aspx or nearing the end of life. The ics & Professor of Medicine, or contact Susan Gilbert gil- tenth interdisciplinary and Weill Cornell Medical College, [email protected] interfaith conference of the NY, and a member of The Hast- or LauraM_Robinson@urmc. Collaborative aims to raise ings Center Board of Directors; rochester.edu awareness about integrating and Mildred Z. Solomon, EdD,

Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 13 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Business Cards Classifieds $84. per issue. Prepaid only. Just mail us your Business Card and Full Payment and we’ll take care of the rest. Mail to: Shoreline Publishing, 629 Fifth Ave., Suite 213, Pelham, N.Y. 10803 ANTIQUES • ART • COLLECTIBLES Most cash paid for paintings, antiques, furniture, silver, sculpture, jewelry, books, cameras, records, instruments, coins, watches, gold, comics, sports cards, etc. Please call Aaron at 914-235-0302.

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Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 14 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com UJA-Federation of New York’s Westchester Business and Professional Division Fall Breakfast HHREC Annual Benefit Ron Moelis of Larchmont, CEO and Co-founder of L + M De- velopment Partners, discussed the double bottom line impact of investing in affordable housing, at UJA-Federation of New York’s Westchester Business and Profes- sional Division Fall Breakfast. The event took place on Friday, Novem- ber 1, 2019, at Willow Ridge Coun- try Club in Harrison. L & M specializes in community-driven urban development and the preservation of affordable housing. The firm is responsible for over $7 billion in development l-r, Gary Sastow of Scarsdale, Lynn Bagliebter of Scarsdale, Ron Moelis of and investment, and has acquired, Larchmont, Cindy Golub of Mamaroneck, Alan Weissman of Rye built or preserved nearly 25,000 residential units in the tri-state area and across the country. They are currently working on a project in downtown New Rochelle. Josh Oboler of New York City, Chair of UJA’s Jewish Life in Action Committee, spoke to the gath- ering about UJA’s work to advance principles of social justice through a Jewish lens. “We believe that community relations and community building, specifically around issues of joint concern can be an excellent way to further our objectives as a Jewish community -- from safety to maintaining relevance, to getting to know our neighbors to building important ties and bridges with other communities,” said Oboler From left to right: Millie Jasper, Executive Director of the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center (HHREC), The Westchester Business and Professional Division is deeply committed to sustaining UJA- Spencer Barback, Partner at Citrin Cooperman, Joseph Kaidanow, Chairman of the HHREC, Westchester County District Federation’s network of life-altering nonprofits by bringing together like-minded individuals with Attorney Anthony A. Scarpino, Jr. shared interests, values, and purpose. “Thanks to our network of hundreds of nonprofits, we leverage our expertise to deliver inno- The Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center {HHREC} held their 22nd Annual Benefit vative solutions to today’s most pressing challenges – fighting poverty, caring for the elderly, nur- this past October 24th, 2019, at the Westchester Country Club honoring and recognizing Spencer turing mental health, and advocating for a better world’, commented Gary Sastow of Scarsdale who Barback, Partner of Citrin Cooperman and District Attorney Anthony A. Scarpino, Jr. co-chairs the Westchester Business and Professional Division with Lynn Baglieber also of Scarsdale Judy Stern Rosen of Purchase and Alan Weissman of Rye chaired the event. Cindy Golub of Mamaroneck serves at UJA Westchester Regional Chair.

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Westchester Jewish Life • December 2019 • Kislev-Tevet 5780 • Page 15 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com