18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
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DECEMBER 4, 2020
2020 HONOREES
RABBI AVROHOM ADLER
CHARLES DAROFF
SUSAN R. HURWITZ
KENNY KOBLITZ
DAVID W. LEOPOLD
CAROL A. MARSHALL
DAVID J. MILLSTONE
JAMES NEWBROUGH
MIRIAM PEARLMUTTER
EARL PIKE
DAVID M. ROSENBERG, M.D., MPH
MITCHELL C. SCHNEIDER
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Rabbi Avrohom Adler • Charles Daroff • Susan R. Hurwitz • Kenny Koblitz • David W. Leopold • Carol A. Marshall David J. Millstone • James Newbrough • Miriam Pearlmutter • Earl Pike • David M. Rosenberg, M.D., MPH Mitchell C. Schneider • Jodilyn Solomon • Wendy Spitz • Ali Stern • Beverley Uria • Richard Uria • William Wortzman
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DECEMBER 4, 2020
We pause to celebrate those who make a difference
Join us in celebrating 2020 class of CJN 18 Difference Makers
DAVID R. HERTZ II
KEVIN S. ADELSTEIN
A
s chairman of the board, it is my honor to serve in my role over these past two-and-a-half years, joining our entire board of directors of the CJPC, which proudly serves.... Greater Cleveland and Columbus, home to two of Ohio’s largest Jewish communities.
Thank you all for your continued support of the CJPC. I’ve been thinking a great deal about community lately and the role the CJPC plays in ours. My connection to the Cleveland Jewish News extends back nearly 40 years, when as an eager college student, I asked then-Editor Cindy Dettlebach if I could write a few stories for her. The CJN was in an office at Cedar and Warrensville roads, and I remember walking up the long flight of stairs to ask Cindy what she thought of a story. Her edits showed me how much I still had to learn about journalism. And they helped inspire me to a rewarding career as a journalist. Thirty years later, I joined the board of this same foundational institution in our community. The CJN was struggling with declining circulation and revenues, but it still was able to move its readers and benefit from their support. It still had a strong community connection. Today, the CJPC enjoys a connection that is stronger than ever. When the pandemic hit, the CJPC made some difficult choices, including reducing our publication schedule. The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, the David and Inez Myers Foundation, Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation, the Samuel H. and Maria Miller Foundation and others in the philanthropic community determined in short order that during this pandemic, the Jewish
community needed their communityowned CJN every Friday. To them, it was unacceptable that in the midst of fear and sorrow, our community would not be able to turn to the CJN each Friday. In the following days and weeks, other grantmaking foundations and individuals responded. And throughout the pandemic, the CJPC has published weekly in Cleveland and biweekly in Columbus. To those who donate your treasure, and to those who donate your time, thank you, indeed. With your support, the leadership and staff of the CJPC are continuing to build one of the most vibrant Jewish media companies in the United States. Our events, news coverage and special publications celebrate the milestones of our culture. When you tune in on Dec. 6, of course, we will pause to celebrate those who make a difference in our community. Their commitment is extraordinary, and their vision for a better community, unyielding. It is entirely fitting that as the pandemic continues around us, the CJPC is able to gather us together in safety and in the hope for better days. Congratulations once again, Difference Makers. You’ve earned it. And on behalf of the CJPC board, we wish you good health and happiness.
David R. Hertz II is Board Chair of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.
Kevin@cjn.org
T
he year 2020 is undoubtedly one none of us, our children or our children’s children will ever forget. As we all know, the world is a vastly different place than it was just one year ago. And amidst so many changes to daily life – with new distances, worries and social injustices brought to light – the values of tikkun olam demonstrated in our Northeast Ohio Jewish community have brought us closer and strengthened our ties to one another.
As community storytellers at the Cleveland Jewish News, it is our responsibility and our duty, now more than ever, to tell the stories of those who have long led the way toward making our community better, as well as those tirelessly paving the way to a more equitable and healthy world. Just like those honored before them, this year’s class of CJN 18 Difference Makers once again showcases a diverse group of professionals – executive-level personnel, nonprofit leaders, partners, attorneys, a physician, a rabbi and more. They exemplify the menschlike qualities that define Difference Makers: community-mindedness, honor, integrity and generosity. Joining the CJN in honoring these Difference Makers are our equally generous partners of the 2020 CJN 18 Difference Makers: Classic Lexus, COIT, McCarthy Lebit Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA, shark&minnow and Anthology of
Mayfield Heights. We appreciate their support, and the support of so many others in and around our community whose messages appear on the pages of our special commemorative section that follows. It is my privilege and honor to introduce and share the stories of the 2020 Cleveland Jewish News 18 Difference Makers. Join me in congratulating the 2020 class, both in these pages, and during our virtual celebration event, which you can register to “attend” Dec. 6 at cjn. org/18dm. Let’s applaud these change agents among us, and come together as a community for better, healthier and more equitable times ahead of us.
Kevin S. Adelstein is Publisher and CEO of the Cleveland Jewish News and President of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company.
WHAT: Cleveland Jewish News presents the 2020 class of 18 Difference Makers WHO: 18 individuals who espouse the spirit of tikkun olam, or repairing the world WHEN: 6 p.m. Dec. 6 WHERE: Virtual via Zoom TICKETS: Admission to the virtual event is free and registration is required at cjn.org/18dm. Please note: This is traditionally a ticketed event. In lieu of requiring ticket purchases, the CJN is asking for your support of local Jewish journalism with the purchase of an optional $36 ticket for this unique virtual event during the pandemic, which includes a one-year print and e-edition subscription to the CJN ($63.95 value). Current paid subscribers will be asked to gift their subscription to another household, if they so choose. CO-PRESENTING SPONSORS: Classic Lexus, COIT and McCarthy Lebit Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA SUPPORTING SPONSOR: shark&minnow VIDEO SPONSOR: Anthology of Mayfield Heights INFO: For more information, contact Events Manager Gina Lloyd at 216-342-5196, or glloyd@cjn.org.
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Rabbi Avrohom Adler Rabbi Avrohom Adler’s move to Cleveland about 25 years ago was a turning point in his life. Originally recruited to come to Northeast Ohio to help community members improve their Torah study habits, Adler watched as his focus shifted from his personal growth to that of others. His selfless mentality brought him new opportunities within Cleveland’s Jewish community, including founding Gesher, a nonprofit tasked to improve the local Jewish community’s access to employment and education opportunities, and co-founding the Cleveland Chesed Center, a Cleveland Heights nonprofit
“Not everyone knows what their mission in life is and what direction they should take, but sometimes it becomes evident as to what your purpose is.”
working to provide Cleveland’s in-need Jewish households with food, clothing and household items. “My rebbe always said that we’re here in this world, placed in different locations, for specific missions,” Adler said. “Not everyone knows what their mission in life is and what direction they should take, but sometimes it becomes evident as to what your purpose is. “It gives meaning to my life that I’m able to help the community because it’s the mission of a person on an individual basis and on a communal level. It’s not just being a statistic, but rather helping the community move forward and improve its members’ lives.” Adler’s dive into helping others locally started with his teaching career, where he taught sixth grade for 13 years at the former Mosdos Ohr Hatorah in Cleveland Heights, he said. While he enjoyed his years as a teacher, Adler wondered of the potential if he took his abilities outside the classroom. This step resulted in the formation of Gesher in 2013, after Adler and
Earl Pike & David M. Rosenberg, M.D., MPH For making our world a better place
And a special thank you to all of this year's class of Difference Makers Rabbi Joshua Skoff Senior Rabbi
Susan Ratner President
DECEMBER 4, 2020
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
OCCUPATION: Executive director of Gesher and Cleveland Chesed Center; project manager for Seyear Management, LLC EDUCATION: Telshe Yeshiva Chicago, undergraduate degree in Talmud and biblical studies; equivalent of master’s degree in Talmud and biblical studies SYNAGOGUE: Kehillas B’nai Torah HOMETOWN: Beachwood SPOUSE: Tziporah Adler What inspires you to give back and make a difference? It is what I have been taught since day school; we are not in this world for ourselves, but rather for God and His people. What does your life say about you? Always ask: What needs to be done and how can we get there? What is one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? God runs the world and we can never be too secure, no matter our situation. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? Assisting my wife in raising a beautiful, well-adjusted family. If you could take a three-month sabbatical from work, how would you spend it? Learning in Israel.
community members sought to aid those experiencing financial plight. Amongst his other callings, he serves as executive director of the center, too. Shortly after Gesher’s establishment, a Jewish Federation of Cleveland population study showed many families with day school children and their surrounding communities were experiencing a food shortage problem. Adler, the Federation and community stakeholders came together to combat the problem with the Cleveland Chesed Center in 2016. He serves as executive director of the center. “In my two main positions, it was to be able to make a difference to improve people’s lives,” Adler said. “The fact that I’m able to get up in the morning with a purpose, and with a direction of, ‘I’m here to help people in the community,’ it lifts me up. At the end of the day, I can look back and say that I helped 10 people, 20 people, hundreds of people, and that definitely makes a person feel good. But we’re not here necessarily in this world to feel good.”
A difference maker? To further make an impact on the local Jewish community, Adler also co-founded Naaleh, a nonprofit mental health referral service, where he’s a member of the board. He also cofounded Agudath Israel of Ohio, where he served as vice president and board member. Most recently, Adler helped facilitate the building of the Cleveland Community Mikvah in University Heights. As its vice president, Adler stayed with the project since its start in 2015 to its completion in November. “I was blessed to have this knack where I’m able to bring various people to the table – people from different groups and with different perspectives and opinions – and bring them together,” Adler said. “Sometimes I have to ruffle some people’s feathers. But, it’s more that we could get it done if I get involved, put my head to it and have people behind me – and, thank God, there’s a lot of people behind me.”
Thank you David for making a difference in our community and in our lives You are a dear friend Love and appreciation
www.parksynagogue.org | 216-371-2244
– McKenna Corson
the Katz family
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Charles Daroff Charles Daroff quickly discovered that if he could combine his well-honed skills as a real estate lawyer with his long-time love for helping others, he could make a lasting impact on the community. He has extended his legal services as a pro bono advisor to B’nai Jeshurun Congregation in Pepper Pike and the Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School in Beachwood. He has served as an attorney and advisor for the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and a number of its affiliated agencies. In addition, Daroff has been a board member and executive committee member for B’nai Jeshurun and a board member for the Mandel school, all as a way to extend his professional expertise outside of the office. “Becoming involved in the Jewish
“I think it’s just our obligation. We’re taught that one of the most important principles of Judaism – pikuach nefesh – that preservation of human life is amongst our highest goals. This is a way for me to try to help other people.”
community and giving back where I can is extremely rewarding and fulfilling,” he said. “The work that I’ve done for multiple Jewish organizations continues to reinvigorate my sense of pride in being Jewish and part of a bigger community. What I try to do is share my knowledge and know-how to help make those organizations stronger and more vibrant.” Daroff’s community-centric values stem from ones taught by his parents, Bob and Jane Daroff, at an early age. The values range from helping one another to the planet as a whole. “Growing up, my parents instilled in me and my brothers a recognition that we all have an obligation to be involved in the world around us and try to make the world a better place; I’ve worked very hard in doing so,” Daroff said. “This is just something that is so important: give back to our fellow mankind, the community and the world.” On top of providing his legal services and taking on various positions with local Jewish organizations, Daroff is also a supporter of the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces following a mission to Israel with Ohio’s chapter of FIDF in November 2019. His trip led him to becoming a contributor to IMPACT!, an FIDF scholarship program that supports combat soldiers from low socioeconomic
C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S to our cherished Chautauquan
KENNY KOBLITZ and all the 2020 Difference Makers.
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18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
OCCUPATION: Partner at the law firm of alter Haverfield EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Case estern eserve University uris Doctor degree from C U School of aw SYNAGOGUE: nai eshurun Congregation HOMETOWN: Beachwood SPOUSE: Abbie Daroff What inspires you to give back and make a difference? Growing up, my parents instilled in me and my brothers a recognition of our obligation to be involved in the world around us – and to try to make the world a better place. I have worked hard to follow that sage advice. What is your favorite Jewish experience? Traveling throughout Israel in November 2019 as a participant in the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces Guys Mission. What does your life say about you? That I care deeply about my family, friends, clients and the Jewish community. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? My amazing children, Adam, Sophie, Liza and Reid. I learn from each of them regularly. Who do you look up to and why? My parents, Jane and Bob Daroff, and my in-laws, Claire Gilson (of blessed memory) and Bob Gilson. In different ways, they each inspired me to be a better man and father and I am forever grateful.
backgrounds. Of his many cherished community-forward efforts, Daroff considers working as the Federation’s real estate lawyer representing the organization during the purchase of its Beachwood headquarters and sale of its previous downtown Cleveland property in the late 2000s as two of his greatest professional highlights. “That was a wonderful experience, and I’m so proud and humbled to have been entrusted with such an important project,” Daroff said. “Working with the professional and lay people at the Federation in that process is something I’ll never forget. These opportunities, whether it’s representing the Federation on those deals, or acting as a legal advisor to my synagogue, Mandel school or other organizations, enabled me to marry my professional work with charitable work.” His various work for B’nai Jeshurun, the Mandel Jewish Day School, the FIDF, the Federation and Federation-affiliated agencies gives Daroff the ability to return the gesture to the places that have bestowed so much to
him and others around him. “In the case of my synagogue, I could give back to a place that I relied on very much,” Daroff said. “In the case of these nonprofits, they’re organized to help the Jewish community – communities I’m a part of and feel very connected to and bonded with. “I think it’s just our obligation. We’re taught that one of the most important principles of Judaism – pikuach nefesh – that preservation of human life is amongst our highest goals. This is a way for me to try to help other people.” For years to come, Daroff hopes to push forward in his work supporting the Jewish community, with a particular emphasis on the FIDF. “COVID has really impacted the community and forced us all to realize what’s most important,” Daroff said. “To me, now more than ever, families, colleagues, clients and neighbors will become a top priority, as they should for us all.” – McKenna Corson
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Our Tribute to the 2020 CJN Class of Difference Makers! We’re privliged to help honor these 18 wonderful people. Their community-mindedness, honor, integrity and generosity are examples for us all to emulate. Mazel tov!
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Susan R. Hurwitz Soon after her son Eric was born and her daughter Hallie (a CJN columnist) was in kindergarten, Susan R. Hurwitz decided to try helping other parents. Her first volunteer post was answering the Tot Line, a phone service for parents struggling with their children’s behaviors run by the Center for Families and Children under the auspices of National Council of Jewish Women. The most important skill she learned was listening. “I learned from that experience about myself that I loved helping other
“I hope that what I’ve done in my life and hopefully what I’m able to continue to do will leave a legacy for my children and grandchildren that will make them proud.”
people,” she said, and when Eric went to kindergarten in 1980, Hurwitz went to graduate school at John Carroll University in University Heights, attaining a master’s degree in counseling and human services. She worked at Jewish Vocational Services for more than eight years, becoming director of counseling. “After that I made a commitment to make volunteering my career,” she said. While once described as an activist, “I think of myself as more of a nonprofit entrepreneur because I’ve always loved beginning something – starting something at the beginning and seeing how it can develop.” Hurwitz, 75, helped develop the blueprint and chaired a task force for the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Community Options, which aimed to help people age in place. First, she and a professional identified “naturally occurring retirement communities,” apartment buildings where “a majority of people had moved when they
Richard & Bev, It seems like yesterday when you arrived in 2002. A young married couple, leaving your home and families. Now 18 years later, you have three beautiful sons, established a full and new life in Cleveland and embraced Jewish causes including your work and
leadership with Friends of the IDF.
Mazel Tov on being honored – 18 Difference Makers – 18 years later (double Chai). With love – Lesley & Johnny Kaye and family
DECEMBER 4, 2020
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
OCCUPATION: Retired licensed professional counselor EDUCATION: B.S. degree from The Ohio State University in Columbus in retailing, master’s degree from John Carroll University in University Heights in counseling and human services SYNAGOGUE: The Temple-Tifereth Israel in Beachwood HOMETOWN: Pepper Pike SPOUSE: Robert Hurwitz What is your favorite Jewish experience? My favorite Jewish experience has been seeing my children and grandchildren embrace their Jewish identities, each in their own way, with commitment and joy. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? COVID has sadly taught me that when people take intransigent opposing positions on a subject concerning the common good the results are inevitably bad. What is the one thing that should be taught in school that isn’t already? I believe every person graduating from high school should be financially literate; understanding banking, insurance, borrowing, etc. It is a life skill that should be taught in school. What’s your favorite local charity and why? The Jewish Federation is central, for me, to all the good that goes on in Jewish Cleveland and the larger community. After many years of volunteering in a variety of settings, I have discovered that there is very little that the Federation does not impact or interact with in some important way. What one thing would you change if you had to do it over? Many years ago, I had the opportunity to be a member of the first Wexner Heritage program in Cleveland. I was one year older than the stated age limit (though eligible) and my insecurity held me back. I learned from that to reach a bit to accomplish goals.
were in their 50s and all of a sudden (were) in their 70s and 80s.” To address their changing needs, Community Options placed community organizers at each building. The results were tangible. Calls to 911 went down as people’s needs were being met, she said, and the program became a model across the country. Hurwitz also served as the chair of both the Montefiore board of trustees and recently the Montefiore Foundation, where she participated in the due diligence prior to the 2020 affiliation between Montefiore and Menorah Park, which share a Beachwood campus. In 2019, Hurwitz was named an emeritus board member of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland based on her more than 20 years of service on its board. In addition to her work on boards in the Jewish and broader community, she has done direct service as a volunteer. “Up until COVID, I was volunteering at Seeds of Literacy,” she said, where she helped adults prepare for the GED. Born in Cleveland, Hurwitz’s first major influence was her grandfather, Aaron Bergson, who cared for her and whom
she watched daven daily. His death, when she was 10, left her distraught. What helped her most in grappling with that loss was a commitment she made “to study and learn about Judaism and make him proud.” Hurwitz became bat mitzvah at Bellefaire in Shaker Heights, where her family’s congregation, Beth Shalom, was meeting at the time. After graduating from Cleveland Heights High School in Cleveland Heights, she attended The Ohio State University in Columbus, graduating with a double major in business and clothing and textiles. She then headed to New York City as a trainee at a department store. Through a mutual friend, she met New York native Robert Hurwitz. The two married and raised their family in Pepper Pike. Now a grandmother, Hurwitz is thinking about the future. “I hope that what I’ve done in my life and hopefully what I’m able to continue to do,” she said, “will leave a legacy for my children and grandchildren that will make them proud.” – Jane Kaufman
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
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Kenny Koblitz Kenny Koblitz’s life mantra comes in the form of music lyrics. “And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance,” said Koblitz, quoting 2000 country music hit, “I Hope You Dance,” by Lee Ann Womack. His adopted slogan keeps him active in the community, whether it’s as executive director emeritus of the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, board member of the Cleveland Sight Center, board member of Montefiore, board member of the UH Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute, sales teacher, managing director of workforce training and corporate partnerships at Valuesin-Action, or whatever else he can do to make an impact – all at age 81. “I’ve been dancing since about 16 years old,” Koblitz said. “I just see things that are interesting, or someone approaches me with a thought or needs some help. I give
He attributed his philanthropic start to watching his grandparents and parents give back to the community.
it a run. It’s worked a lot of times.” He attributed his philanthropic start to watching his grandparents and parents give back to the community. Little by little, he caught the genetic bug that gave him his love of making a difference. “It was just in my blood because of the family,” Koblitz said. “They told me to always try to help other people.” The organizations or efforts he is or has been involved in all serve an importance to Koblitz, whether it’s engaging a personal interest, allowing him to teach or learn, or helping a person or cause. Koblitz’s many music-related involvements are all based off his longtime infatuation with music. Nicknamed “music man,” Koblitz stepped in as executive director of the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra when its director fell ill in 2016. Koblitz helped find a new leader for the orchestra, and was then made executive director emeritus of the organization, where he continues to aid with funding and performances. He and his wife, Audrey, also served on the performing arts board of the State University of New York at Fredonia, where they raised money and helped find talent. And he’s been helping an up-and-coming singer find venues and performance
Mazel Tov
to our dear friends, Susan Hurwitz and Dr. David Rosenberg for being recognized as part of this year’s Difference Makers. Your dedication to community and all that you give, is given back to you with love and great appreciation. Fondly, Terry & Shelly Adelman
DECEMBER 4, 2020
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
OCCUPATION: Managing director of workforce training and corporate partnerships at Values-inAction EDUCATION: B.S. degree in journalism from The Ohio State University SYNAGOGUE: Celebrating Jewish Life HOMETOWN: Pepper Pike SPOUSE: Audrey Koblitz What inspires you to give back and make a difference? The feeling I get. When I can see someone who I helped monetarily or with what they want to do in life, or all of the above. It’s important to me and to Audrey. That’s what makes us go. What is your favorite Jewish experience? Traveling to Israel to see my granddaughter, Brooke Koblitz, run for the U.S. Maccabi team in 2017. Audrey, my middle son, his wife and I were all there to see Brooke win a silver medal for the 4 x 400 relay. What does your life say about you? I’ve been blessed to be able to do the many various things that I’ve done. I’ve traveled a lot because of my past job and have seen a lot. My wife has been able to go with me on many of those trips, and it was wonderful having her and doing them together. I just kept dancing. What is one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? I learned the pain that distance brings. How would your friends describe you? Highly energized. Motivated to do good things for my community. Honest. Relationship driven. Team builder.
opportunities after he saw her sing at a SUNY Fredonia concert. A longtime supporter and member of the Cleveland Sight Center, Koblitz found his start with the organization when he returned to Cleveland after 30 years working in Atlanta and saw an ad in the local daily newspaper about a coach needed for the Cleveland Scrappers, a baseball team for visually impaired players run by the center. Koblitz, a sports fan, signed up and helped lead the team across the globe to a league championship. His board membership at the University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute came about after Koblitz had open heart surgery 26 years ago. He visits patients anticipating or recovering from open heart surgery to inform them of what they need to do and what comes next. At Montefiore, he and Audrey have been co-chairs of Shining Star CLE since its inception four years ago. On top of his board positions, Koblitz
served as an executive in residence for two years at SUNY Fredonia, where he taught sales, and he co-founded the Bernie Moreno Center for Sales Excellence at Cleveland State University in spring 2016. At Values-in-Action, his efforts in workforce training and corporate partnerships go toward one of the organization’s goals of teaching underprivileged high school students job skills. While the years might have been busy, to Koblitz, serving on boards or raising money for deserving causes was all worth it. “There’s always more that you can do, and I understand that,” Koblitz said. “I don’t feel burdened and never have. These things are gratifying, and you’re doing good things for other people or institutions.” – McKenna Corson
Mazel Tov to all the honorees! Chuck Whitehill
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DECEMBER 4, 2020
Congratulations Menorah Park President and CEO
James Newbrough and members of our
Menorah Park family
Susan Hurwitz Kenny Koblitz David Rosenberg, M.D. Beverley and Richard Uria and all of this year’s
DIFFERENCE MAKERS
®
Menorah Park • 27100 Cedar Rd. • Beachwood, OH 44122
216-831-6500 • MenorahPark.org
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David W. Leopold It was David W. Leopold’s father who bestowed him with his tenacious fight for social ustice and giving back. Leopold’s father, a Holocaust survivor and lawyer, fought for the rights of others through board positions, community activities and even running for a state representative position in Michigan. Leopold, constantly observing his role model, as a 3-year-old learned the word “sign” during his father’s government campaign. “I learned from him because he always had a commitment to social justice and was an activist, and he still is today,” Leopold said.
“We’re all empowered to make things better – to make this a better country, to make this a more perfect democracy and to make our community better.”
Leopold discovered his life’s passion after he struggled to find joy in the trial attorney position he held at a mid-sized Cleveland firm following law school graduation. He happened upon a pro bono project to assist Soviet Jews coming out of the Soviet Union as it was collapsing. “One thing led to another, and I found myself as a practicing immigration attorney a few years later,” Leopold said. Leopold is a partner with Ulmer & Berne LLP, where he leads the firm’s immigration practice group, focusing on business immigration, complex removal defense, employer sanctions defense and federal litigation. He’s also on the American Jewish Committee’s board of trustees and its national immigration task force, is a founding member of the LatinoJewish Leadership Council established by the AJC, a member of Global Cleveland’s board of directors and serves as a counsel to DHS Watch, a project of America’s Voice, a national immigration reform group based in Washington, D.C.
Mazel Tov, Charles Daroff! With awe and gratitude for all you do for Ohio and for us!
Love always, The Daroff Family
DECEMBER 4, 2020
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
OCCUPATION: Partner at Ulmer & Berne LLP EDUCATION: . . degree in economics from University of Michigan .D. from Case estern Reserve University School of Law SYNAGOGUE: Chabad Solon HOMETOWN: Beachwood SPOUSE: Daurielle Horowitz Leopold What inspires you to give back and make a difference? Making the world a better place. What is your favorite Jewish experience? Shabbat. What does your life say about you? Always learning. What is the one thing that should be taught in school that isn’t already? Foreign language fluency. Who do you look up to and why? My father. He is a man of integrity.
Through his professional work and involvement with many immigrantbased organizations, he uses his voice for immigrant children separated from their parents at the United States-Mexico border. He also works with companies seeking highly skilled foreign professionals and physicians, and with researchers and other health care professionals abroad seeking to enter the U.S. to help combat COVID-19. “We’re all empowered to make things better – to make this a better country, to make this a more perfect democracy and to make our community better,” Leopold said. “I wake up every day with a strong sense of optimism that we can make this better, that we’re on the cusp of something great. ... At the end of the day, if I can turn around and say, ‘I did make a difference with my career; I made it a better place,’ then I think I will have been successful.” In a job tasked with battling inequality, Leopold said it’s easy to feel like he’s forever at the foot of a mountain. Add in a divisive society and the pandemic, and it’s a perfect storm, he said. “A very wise person once told me that
when you’re overwhelmed, just look at the project you’re working on at that minute that day, and get through that,” Leopold said. “With everything going on, do I feel overwhelmed? Who doesn’t? ... But if I can take one person who’s about to be separated from their family for life and change that, I’ve changed a lot.” His greatest accomplishment is one he contributes to every day, which is informing others of their societal duty to one another. “We are all interconnected, and we all have a responsibility to each other,” Leopold said. “Some of the big issues that face us these days – social justice, systemic racism, climate change, respecting the law and the strength of our democratic institutions – are all issues that I think touch every one of us. I’d like to think that I was a part of making my neighbors, my family and others in the community at large more aware, and that they too can do something to make things toward that more perfect union.” – McKenna Corson
Congratulations to Bill Wortzman! Thank you for all you do for our community. You are an inspiration to so many!
Leslie Koblentz and Family
MAZEL TOV TO ALL OF THIS YEAR'S DIFFERENCE MAKERS
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The Board and Staff of the Cleveland Chesed Center CONGRATULATE
Rabbi Avrohom Adler on his recognition in this year's class of Difference Makers.
The honor is well-deserved.
BRYAN J. FARKAS ROCHELLE GROSS ERIKA RUDIN-LURIA SUSAN MEISEL ROY MINOFF GALE RESSLER HARVEY SIEGEL MOISH TOHN RUTH WOLFSON DARA YANOWITZ MEIRA FRIEDMAN DAHLEN FIRESTONE RUTH JACOB
PUTTING FOOD (AND MUCH MORE) INTO THE HANDS OF OUR JEWISH NEIGHBORS 1898 SOUTH TAYLOR ROAD | CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH 44118 216 932 3115 | WWW.CLEVELANDCHESEDCENTER.ORG
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Carol A. Marshall Once, when Carol A. Marshall was ushering at The Temple-Tifereth Israel in Beachwood, she noticed a mother and daughter engaged in a con ict during High Holy Day services. “Early in the service, despite what her daughter said, the mother insisted that she had to rise, although it was now difficult for her,” Marshall wrote about the experience in a reflection. “The discussion went back and forth a few times, with the 80-plus-year-old woman growing more adamant each time. I walked over, knelt down, and quietly said to her, ‘G-d doesn’t care if you stand or not. G-d cares more about what’s in your heart.’ She sighed deeply, smiled, and relaxed in her seat. Her daughter looked at me and mouthed a thank you. This lovely lady was at peace staying seated at every service she attended afterward.” Marshall is a teacher by training and a proposal manager and grant writer by trade.
“Her quiet strength is a defining feature of the community she chooses to live in and continues to help repair.” Augie Napoli, nominator
She works at United Way of Greater Cleveland and has worked in her current profession for 30 years starting at Orange School District, the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, Cleveland Botanical Garden and at The Music Settlement. “I look at a grant proposal as a way of educating someone else,” she said, adding that the satisfaction has several layers. “It’s knowing that I’m contributing to people having better lives. That even though I’m not doing the actual work … I’m contributing in my own way and that’s very satisfying to me.” In her nearly four years at United Way, Marshall, 69, has won more than $4.5 million from local and state funders for the antipoverty agency. “At United Way of Greater Cleveland alone, Carol has accomplished critical work to support programs like Accountable Health Communities and 2-1-1 HelpLink, United Way’s 24/7 helpline,” wrote her nominator, Augie Napoli, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland. “Her quiet strength is a defining feature of the community she chooses to live in and continues to help repair.” Marshall has served as president of the Temple Women’s Association, serves on
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OCCUPATION: Proposal manager and grant writer United ay of reater Cleveland EDUCATION: .S. elementary education, Case estern eserve University. Kent State M. Ed. early childhood education SYNAGOGUE: The Temple-Tifereth Israel HOMETOWN: Shaker Heights SIGNIFICANT OTHER: Joe Newman What inspires you to give back and make a difference? Pirkei Avot states, “It is not your responsibility to finish the work of perfecting the world, but you are not free to desist from it.” Each of us must contribute in our own way – whether large or small – to make this a better world or a better corner of the world. What is your favorite Jewish experience? Shabbat services – the music; the peaceful setting; the people (when we are physically together); and the knowledge that whatever happened during the week, it’s time to put it behind me. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? I’ve learned how much our lives depend on the many essential workers who work for low wages. They have put their health and their lives at risk to earn a meager paycheck that may not cover all their monthly expenses. What is your favorite memory? The day learned that I was pregnant. There was a beautiful, vibrant double rainbow in the sky that afternoon that lasted for about half an hour. It felt like God was celebrating with me. Who do you look up to and why? My college roommate, Barb Krivanka. How can it be that we’ve known each other for more than 50 years? Barb, a devout Catholic, appreciates the good in every person and treasures the unique gifts each person brings to life. I think of her when I’m with someone who may be a bit hard to like. Barb’s kindness, love, and important words helped me through my divorce when my daughters were young and helped me find myself once again. (What do you say when your best friend tells you to “Stop shoulding on yourself”?) I am a better person because of her.
The Temple board of trustees, sings in the congregational choir, attends Torah study on Saturday mornings and afternoon classes. Born in Queens, N.Y., her family moved to New Rochelle, where she grew up at Westchester Reform Temple. Her family was among its early members. In fact, as a little girl she attended holiday services and religious school in a church before the congregation had its own building. She came to Cleveland as a college student at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland and married Richard Marshall in 1972. They settled in Lyndhurst, had two children, Rebecca and Leah, and divorced in 1986. She met Joe Newman, her significant other of 15 years, at The Temple’s Torah study class.
Marshall enjoys educating colleagues about Judaism and makes a point of inviting nonJews to her seders. In 2000, she was asked to join Cleveland Hillel’s board, and was invited to speak at High Holy Day services there. She chose to discuss Gil Mann’s book, “How to Get More Out of Being Jewish: Even If..,” personalizing his framework. “One gentleman told me it was probably the best sermon he had ever heard,” she wrote. “But the most touching comment was from a John Carroll University student. ‘You have no idea how much what you said meant to me.’” – Jane Kaufman
Mazel Tov to our dear friend CHARLES DAROFF for always making a difference. Fondly, Richard & Beverley Uria
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David Dad Papa
We are all so proud of you. Your love, support and caring show throughout everything you do! Our family, our community and your patients all know you make a difference! Love, Enid Erin and Joe; Anna and Kate Justin and Jessica; Allie and Olivia
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David Millstone David Millstone’s mother did not approve of his decision to practice at S uire Sanders Dempsey in his first ob out of law school. “She was very upset with me believing that I had sold out by going to a corporate law firm,” Millstone, 74, recalled, adding that it wasn’t the choice he had planned to make either. While at West Virginia University Law School in his hometown of Morgantown, W.Va., he did an internship with the Appalachian Research and Defense Fund in Charleston as a law student civil rights research clerk, working on a case that awarded disabled miners and widows
As the international affairs chair of the national ADL, he met with leaders during the U.N. General Assembly in New York to advocate for Israel and for concerns affecting Jews around the world.
$11 million from the United Mine Workers Disability and Trust Fund. It was only through the strong arm of his dean that Millstone interviewed with the corporate firm. When he was called back for a second interview, he brought his wife, Dvora, who fell in love with Cleveland. Meanwhile, Millstone posed a question to his interviewer, Jim Davis, then the managing partner of the firm. “Last summer I worked at a regional legal aid firm where we worked to create change that benefits people and society. How could working at Squire Sanders let me work to make changes that will improve people’s lives?” he asked Davis. The answer, from Davis: “You can make more of a difference working from the inside than by throwing brickbats.” It wasn’t long before Millstone had his first chance. A Fortune 100 company was facing a class-action lawsuit based on environmental practices. Millstone was put on the case assisting a senior partner. “I felt that they should prevail on a legal basis,” said Millstone, referring to the company. “I also felt they were courting liability if they didn’t clean up the way
Congratulations 18
Difference Makers 2020
JFSA Board Member
David Rosenberg, MD, MPH & JFSA Life Director
William Wortzman
JFSA provides individuals and families with solutions to face life’s challenges with confidence.
216.292.3999 | jfsa-cleveland.org
DECEMBER 4, 2020
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
OCCUPATION: Principal, Millstone ADR EDUCATION: . . degree in political science, The ohns Hopkins University. .D., est irginia University College of aw SYNAGOGUE: Previously B’rith Emeth, Temple srael and Park Synagogue, until becoming a Florida resident HOMETOWN: Shaker Heights and akewood anch, la. SPOUSE: Dvora Millstone What inspires you to give back and make a difference? I was raised in a home where giving back to the community and particularly the Jewish community was stressed. Having had a successful career, I have always felt it is important to give back. What is your favorite Jewish experience? March of the Living with my daughter in 1994, who was International N’Siah of BBG, in 1994 is probably my most meaningful Jewish experience. What is one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? There’s so much that I have learned – patience, resilience, how to find time to work with different organizations with multiple demands in a trying time. I miss the ability to travel. Who do you look up to and why? My children, Aaron and Mika. They are both wonderful people who are brilliant at what they do. They are both passionate, creative and generous people who are raising amazing Jewish children. What one thing would you change if you had to do it over? I would have been more a more serious student in undergraduate school.
they operated.” When the meeting with the general counsel of that company took place, Millstone was taken to the meeting by the senior partner and permitted to present his findings. The result was a recommendation from the general counsel to change the way the company operated its facilities, which they subsequently did Within two years of his start, he was responsible for developing procedures to provide due process for students facing expulsion and other discipline in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Skipping ahead decades, his final case with the firm, a case involving the Mount Vernon School District, also sticks out. John Freshwater was teaching Biblical creationism as science in public schools, and a protracted legal battle ended with his firing. “That was a very significant case,” Millstone said. “There is a real problem in our public schools where teaching religion is taking over the teaching of science. I believe strongly in separation of church and state, and that is what we accomplished.” Millstone also helped the Kingdom of Bahrain by drafting reforms to its labor law in 2004. “When you have educated people and they don’t have an opportunity to work and earn good money, they turn to terrorism,” he said. “In some ways, this was my fight against terrorism.” As a member of the Anti-Defamation
League’s national and regional boards, Millstone has actively fought discrimination. When Jews in Beachwood were experiencing friction, Millstone worked with Terry Pollack through the ADL to present anti-bias programming bringing together students in the Orthodox and wider Jewish community. He also helped created a course with Bettysue Feuer and Neal Shapero called College 101 to prepare high school students to confront anti-Semitism, antiIsrael and the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement, which targets Israel. As the international affairs chair of the national ADL, he met with leaders during the U.N. General Assembly in New York to advocate for Israel and for concerns affecting Jews around the world. Born in Morgantown, Millstone was raised by his mother, Hilda Cooper Millstone, after his father died when he was 3 years old. He became bar mitzvah at Morgantown’s Tree of Life Congregation, which he described as Reformadox. He met his wife of over 52 years, Dvora, through the local BBYO chapter and they were married at the Tree of Life.. He has been active with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and with Sarasota’s federation. Looking back, “I wanted to make a difference,” he said. “I wanted to do things where I felt I could bring about positive change.” – Jane Kaufman
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Our Heartfelt Mazel Tov To Susan R. Hurwitz Dr. David Rosenberg Beverley & Richard Uria Along with the entire 18 Difference Makers Class of 2020 You make our communities along with Israel’s communities stronger for generations to come.
All our love
The Haber Family
Ida, Irwin, Nathan, Ryan, Shlomit & Rena
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James Newbrough The first time im him forever.
ewbrough toured Menorah Park will stay with
It was his first of many interviews for the long-term care facility’s CEO and president position about five years ago. Menorah Park had recently opened the position to non-Jewish applicants to broaden its search, which allowed for Newbrough – a Catholic with decades of long-term care and skilled nursing experience – to apply. “I’m thinking I’m walking into a skilled nursing facility or long-term care facility, but it was nothing like that,” Newbrough said. “It was a vibrant, active community. There were educational programs going on, entertainment and activities, people
“Not everyone knows what their mission in life is and what direction they should take, but sometimes it becomes evident as to what your purpose is.”
going on and off the campus, community members and families here, schools bringing kids. I thought to myself, ‘Wow, this is a special place; I’ve never been anywhere like this. I’d like to have the opportunity to be a part of this.’” From that first experience, Newbrough fell in love. He saw a place he could fulfill his life’s mission: the opportunity to help others grow. His journey into health care started as a child when he learned from his parents the necessity of helping family and those around him. “My father was a believer in that you take care of those in the community who are not able to take care of themselves,” Newbrough said. “That’s what community is all about – it’s to help those that need that additional support. I grew up with that mindset, and it just translated into my career.” A registered nurse by training with over 30 years of experience in the health care industry, his values never changed no matter where his jobs took him. “I’ve spent my career in faith-based nonprofit type organizations because I
Mental illness is not a choice. . . but hope is.
The Hopewell Community Salutes and Thanks 2020 Difference Maker
William A. Wortzman
Vice Chair and Treasurer, Hopewell Board of Directors For his 23 years of dedicated service and for a lifetime of advocating for people with mental illness. The path to mental wellness is not always straight. Bill’s guidance and support provide hope to our residents and their families, regardless of the twists and turns of their journeys. www.hopewellcommunity.org
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OCCUPATION: Chief Executive Officer of Menorah Park EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Joseph’s College of Maine; master’s degree in business administration from Franklin University in Columbus HOMETOWN: Wadsworth What inspires you to give back and make a difference? My personal commitment to positive change. Family generations, including my parents, taught me to value community and to be a part of its fabric and to make strong contributions that help others. What is your favorite Jewish experience? My weekly lessons with Rabbi Kutner. He taught me well beyond textbook knowledge, providing insights into the meaning and value of traditions, holidays and overall culture. His lessons were delivered in a very engaging way that often led to singing and shared experiences. My time with him deepened my understanding and respect of the richness of the Jewish community and our shared values. What does your life say about you? I believe in the values passed along from generation to generation. It is an honor and a privilege to carry on my family’s deep value of integrity; assuring I am giving opportunities to others to succeed in life through my actions as a leader and through my life’s work. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? We must always be prepared to expect the unexpected. I am humbled by the dedication of this incredible community; the staff, family members, clients and the entire community genuinely cares for one another. We are experiencing the resilience and heart found in the human spirit. What is your favorite memory? While I have had many favorite memories throughout my life, my favorite Menorah Park memory is about the way in which I would begin each day before the pandemic, saying good morning to the volunteers at Pearl’s Place and having our brief conversations. To begin each day engaging with such caring and giving individuals has truly been an incredible bright spot.
want to do something that’s more than just a career or a job, and do something that makes a difference in people’s lives,” Newbrough said. “I feel like the work I’ve been able to do in health care has really helped me be able to fulfill that part where I feel like I’m contributing to something greater.” Despite coming into one of Ohio’s largest Jewish social service agencies with little background in Judaism, Newbrough has never felt his different religion keeps him from best serving the facility. If anything, it set him on a path of learning that first started with local rabbis, and then led to his discovery of many and unexpected similarities between Catholicism and Judaism. “It was a big learning curve, but I do feel like it’s an honor and a privilege for me to lead these organizations,” Newbrough said. “I don’t feel that me not being Jewish has been a hindrance; I think it’s helped to have great people around me that helped me understand why things are done the way they are (in Judaism).” In his role at Menorah Park, he’s helped bring the facility to new heights, such as leading the affiliation with Montefiore earlier this year. He’s also guided Menorah Park and Montefiore through the
COVID-19 pandemic with a goal to keep residents, their families and staff healthy and virus-free. While he’s wildly proud of these team efforts, Newbrough’s greatest accomplishment is one he sees every day: watching those at Menorah Park accomplish their goals. Whether it’s seeing a resident improve with Menorah Park’s services to get around on their own, or a hard working staff member achieve a well-deserved promotion, Newbrough views his success by his community’s everyday achievements. “To see the resiliency of our residents and our family members, to see the outpouring of community support for this campus – it keeps me motivated,” Newbrough said. “When they say ‘health care heroes,’ I don’t use that term lightly. We have people that come in here every day that are putting themselves in potential harm’s way with COVID, but they’re here because they’re taking care of the people that need them and rely on them. ... I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to be a part of this organization.” – McKenna Corson
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-
Susan, Susie ,: Mom, Mimi - · whoever calls, you always answer. '
Thank you for all you do for us and the greater community. We love you and are proud of you. You epitomize the mensch-like qualities that define Difference Makers: community-mindedness, honor, integrity and generosity.
Love, Robert, Hallie, Greg, Reed, Joey, Maggie, Eric, Deb, Cam, Jack, Sky and Ev
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Miriam Pearlmutter Born in Saratov in the former Soviet Union, Miriam Pearlmutter has vivid memories of her relatives bringing food to her family as they prepared to leave their homeland to come to the United States. Pearlmutter was 5. Russian propaganda in 1980 spread reports of food shortages in the United States. When her family arrived months later to Boston, they stayed with the wife and children of Nobel laureate and dissident Andrei Sakharov in Chestnut Hill, a suburb of Boston. “We lived in their basement for a year until my parents were able to get jobs, get their own apartment, and buy a house in the suburbs and kind of move up the
“As RBG famously said, “To make life a little better for people less fortunate than you, that’s what I think a meaningful life is. One lives not just for oneself but for one’s community.”
ladder,” Pearlmutter said. She attended the Maimonides School in Brookline, Mass. “We were pretty (much) considered off the boat when we got to school,” she said. Her mother wouldn’t allow English to be spoken in the home, so acculturation was a slow process. Pearlmutter attended undergraduate school at Barnard College in New York City and studied to become a school psychologist at Tufts University in Somerville, Mass. Only after being a school psychologist for a few years did she decide to go to law school because of the wider impact she could make on children as a lawyer from that vantage point. A graduate of Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University in Columbus, she practices at Walter | Haverfield in Cleveland, focusing on education law. Outside of work, Pearlmutter enjoys helping others – both in her profession and at home in some of the same ways she was helped when she first arrived in the United States. In 2001, her family opened their home to an elderly Russian refugee couple who
Congregation Shaarey Tikvah congratulates
MITCHELL SCHNEIDER
for being a CJN 2020 Difference Maker
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OCCUPATION: ttorney, alter Haverfield EDUCATION: B.A. degree, Barnard College/ Columbia University, psychology and education. M.A. and Ed. S in school psychology – Tufts University; JD – The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law SYNAGOGUE: “Sometimes I go to Chabad” HOMETOWN: Beachwood What inspires you to give back and make a difference? I am inspired by the Jewish concept of repairing the world, tikun olam. This means leaving the world a better place than when you found it, especially for those with fewer means and resources. As RBG famously said, “To make life a little better for people less fortunate than you, that’s what I think a meaningful life is. One lives not just for oneself but for one’s community.” What is your favorite Jewish experience? I love Shavuous, the holiday of dairy foods. Cheesecake, lasagna, ice cream … what’s not to love? It’s also in the spring when the weather is lovely. What does your life say about you? It brings me joy to help people and make them happy. What is your favorite memory? I remember Thanksgiving dinners when my grandmother was still alive. Our entire extended family would come together despite our differences and it was just such a sweet, wholesome time. Who do you look up to and why? I look up to my children, who are teens and young adults. Many people are critical of the next generation, but I think they face unprecedented challenges in navigating a complicated world, a world that is constantly changing technologically, scientifically, socially, and morally. I look up to my children every day when I see how they change, adapt, and grow.
needed assistance in finding employment. The pair stayed in her home for more than a year before moving out on their own and becoming independent. In addition, Pearlmutter has taken in foster children. At one point, she fostered three siblings, plus her own four children. “I ended up having seven children living in my house, which was crazy,” Pearlmutter said. “I still remember that time, and I still try to keep up with those kids.” In her work, she enjoys the cutting edge questions that she grapples with on a regular basis and appreciates the opportunity to influence the justice system in order to help individuals. On the job, Pearlmutter started a podcast in 2016 called “Class Act: Updates in Education Law,” which she
co-hosts. During COVID-19, Pearlmutter began addressing issues affecting schools pertaining to the pandemic in the podcast. “I enjoy speaking to school districts about their legal requirements, compliance with various civil rights issues, or bullying issues,” Pearlmutter said. “When I go and I give a presentation about what a school district has to do to comply with the regulations issued by the Office of Civil Rights, I know that it’s not only that I’m helping my clients, I’m also affecting all the kids in that school district … by helping school staff members learn how to respond to these situations, some child that is being harassed or bullied is going to have a better outcome than maybe if I hadn’t presented that day.” – Jane Kaufman
When asked who You said I, When asked what You said DO, When asked why You said MUST, When asked when You said NOW
Ali, Congratulations on being recognized for DOING NOW WHAT MUST BE DONE that makes a difference in our community. We are so proud! Love, Mom, Rachel, Noam, Ori, Aviv, Buddy and Sarah
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Congratulations Wendy Spitz and all of The 2020 Difference Makers
We’re so proud of you, for all the wonderful things you do.
Doing Mitzvot with a smile on your face, you help to make this world a better place Congratulations on being a Difference Maker! Lots of Love, Sandi & Burt Zucker Lisa, Brad, Jordyn, Camryn & Morgyn Zucker and Betsy, Brent, Jonah & Zachary Silver
Mazel Tov Wendy Spitz
AND ALL OF THE 2020 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
The amount of people you have had a positive influence on on is is truly truly amazing. amazing. Your Your drive drive and and passion passion are are infectious. infectious. We We want want you you to to know know how how proud proud we we are are of of your your commitment commitment to to being being a a difference difference maker! maker!
We We love love you! you! Haley, Haley, Tyler Tyler & & Danny Danny Spitz Spitz WENDY AD.indd 1
11/30/20 9:05 AM
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Mazel Tov!
Earl on this well-deserved honor, you make a difference in our lives every day! With love, admiration, and pride, Elizabeth, Leah andJonah
DECEMBER 4, 2020
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In tribute to
RABBI AVROHOM ADLER For your outstanding leadership and making a difference in so many areas of our community.
Rabbi Eli & Suri Dessler
“One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.” John F. Kennedy
Richard & Beverley, It’s no surprise to us. Congratulations on making a difference. – Julie and David Soble –
CONGRATULATIONS Richard & Beverley Uria and Mitchell Schneider
Thank you for all you do for our community. Sara Hurand & Elie Weiss
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Beverley & Richard,
Mazel Tov to two really good eggs
Mazel Tov on being chosen as one of the Difference Makers in the community.
Richard and Beverley Uria
We are very proud of you.
From the Waldbaum Family
Lisa, Adam, Josh, Sam and Alex
@alexsfarmfresheggs
Ros and Av Fanaroff Grace and Michael Drusinsky
Congratulations to our valued colleague
Ali Stern
Congratulations to Bev and Richard Uria!
for your contribution to The Jewish Agency for Israel and the Jewish community of Cleveland
Thanks for making such a difference.
Karen and Chip Chaikin
•
Mazel Tov
•
To the 2020 CJN 18 Difference Makers. Your deep dedication and affection for our community exemplifies our Jewish tradition for Tikkun Olam.
Kol Hakavod.
The Feldman, Wehn, Zieve Family Barry Feldman, Inductee 2015 Sandy Zieve, Inductee 2017
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DECEMBER 4, 2020
Earl Pike On first impression, Earl Pike is a kind, caring and relatable person, clearly drawn to helping others. “I don’t see the people we serve as the other I see them as part of me, and because of that, I feel like what I’m doing is not building a better community for other people, but building a better community because that’s a community I’d want to live in,” Pike said while speaking about his executive director role at University Settlement in Cleveland’s Slavic Village Neighborhood. “So, there’s something really selfish about it.” University Settlement’s programs are divided into four categories: community programs, family programs, youth programs and senior programs. They work to address needs of residents in Slavic Village. “One of the reasons that I’m here is that, while I didn’t grow up in the kind of poverty you’d see literally across the street from where I’m standing, we didn’t have a lot of money and we had a lot of challenges in our family,” Pike said, frankly. The former CEO of AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland said he is driven by the idea that there is a place at the table for everybody. “If you think about it, I’m a straight white male who spent 25 years working in AIDS, and for large parts of that, I was sort of not part of the typical community,” Pike said. He has often been the unexpected person to advocate for different groups or to be in a certain place. “I think people like me who do have some privilege, by the color of my skin and by gender and so on, have a positive obligation to use that privilege to benefit other people’s lives,” Pike said. “It’s not just a gift, it’s not just a blessing, it’s not just an
He has often been the unexpected person to advocate for different groups or to be in a certain place.
add-on. It’s something we are only given to do something with and the only thing to do with it is to help other people.” Pike is proud of his work for the antipoverty agency, which serves the residents of one of Cleveland’s poorest neighborhoods. The nonprofit just broke ground on a $20 million investment to replace its headquarters and build 88 units of affordable and market-rate housing in the hopes of revitalizing Slavic Village. “It’s difficult to overstate the impact that it’s going to have on how people think about themselves around here,” Pike said. He described University Settlement’s current building as being in such bad shape the roof leaks to the extent that the kitchen floods when it rains and seniors congregating in its multi-purpose room get wet. Pike added there were seven raccoon nests on top of the building when he climbed it earlier this year. “It is falling apart, unhygienic unsafe, but more than anything else, the argument that I’ve been making the last couple of years is: a building that dilapidated tells clients that their lives are dilapidated,” Pike said. “By building this new project, we’ll be able to help residents in the community write a new narrative for what the future will look like, because instead of entering a dilapidated building, they’re going to be able to enter this beautiful building.” John C. Williams, the award-winning architect responsible for Heinen’s Fine Foods’ downtown Cleveland location, will also be responsible for University Settlement’s new building. “They’ll be able to enter this building that will tell them, ‘You are better. There are better things for you in the future,’” Pike said. “I’ve just come to believe that architecture doesn’t just tell us what happens in a building, it literally tells us who we are, because if we’re allowed to be in this space or that space and they’re beautiful spaces, it tells us that our lives are beautiful as well.” – Skylar Dubelko
Charles, Mazel Tov for being honored as part of the 18 Difference Makers. You contribute so much to the community and friends with your kindness, wisdom and generosity.
Am Yisrael Chai Lesley & Johnny Kaye
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OCCUPATION: Executive Director of University Settlement EDUCATION: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, organizational communication and music Theory. SYNAGOGUE: Park Synagogue HOMETOWN: Cleveland Heights SPOUSE: Elizabeth Klein What inspires you to give back and make a difference? My dad, who was in the Marines for 27 years, was a street kid, basically, growing up, and he lived on his own from the time he was 11 to 17, living on the streets and riding the rails. He forged a high school diploma and got into the Marines when he was 17. His expertise was ordnance disposal, what that means is he diffused live bombs for 27 years. There’s something about the military that literally trains people to put service above all else and to run towards the gunfire. Most of us, when we hear gunfire, we run away, but first responders, military people, run towards the gunfire. I just remember those two lessons, that we’re here to serve and that you run towards the danger. Those are two things that I learned from my dad, What is your favorite Jewish experience? I am a convert to Judaism or as my wife’s grandmother who’s no longer with us used to say, she would get it mixed up when she was introducing me, she would say, ‘He’s a convict.’ I converted to Judaism before I met my wife, many, many years ago. There are specific experiences that were part of the pull for me. I remember being at Yom Kippur services in Minneapolis about 35 years ago and feeling the divine talk to me. I’m not big on sort of conversion experiences, but I have felt that voice inside and I think of that as a uniquely Jewish voice, because it’s about people coexisting with a God who lives in history. But, I also have to say, I’m a sucker for every Passover meal I’ve ever been to. I just feel like it’s the ultimate story and reliving of a story of Jewish experience. What does your life say about you? I’ve always been and always will be a champion of the underdog. I often find myself asking – sometimes out loud and sometimes in my head – when at meetings or events or whatever, who’s missing from this table and how do we get them there? Who are we not hearing from? Who’s not being represented? Who’s not being heard? We did a ton of work to mobilize voters in Slavic Village, only because I felt like they’re the last folks that people think about and their voice matters. It doesn’t matter how they voted. Their voice simply matters. What 1 thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? We’ve been around for 96 years and we gave away a quarter million pounds of food a year and we gave away more food in March than any other month in our history. We’ve been nonstop and we’ve gone through our challenges, we’ve had two staff get sick and recover. It’s been difficult holding people together and kind of holding the community together and I’ve learned two things in all of that. One is to be humble. Nobody, nobody is all that – nobody. The only way that you can serve disenfranchised peoples and communities is to sit down with them on the same level, person-to-person and be humble and say, ‘I want to learn from you. Tell me what your life is like. Tell me who you are. Tell me how I can be helpful to you.’ The other thing that I’ve learned and that we’ve learned here is to be nimble. Whatever works today might be different than what works tomorrow. If you could travel back in time, what year would you travel to? I am fascinated, utterly fascinated, by the fact that this small tract of land that is now Israel was the birthplace of some of the most significant forms of thought to ever land on planet Earth. It’s the birthplace of three major monotheistic religions. So it’s hard to find the exact time, but it wouldn’t be when Jesus was around, because that was kind of a confusing time. It would have been before that, sometime before that when Israel began to think of itself as a nation, as a people. I would have been fascinated just to watch how that process formed. That consciousness develops over time and I would have loved to be around during the times when people began to think of themselves as something bigger and more enduring than simply scattered tribes in Israel that are trying to figure out what to do.
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Congratulations to our good friends Congratulations David Leopold On your well-deserved recognition as a 2020 Difference Maker
Mitchell Schneider, Jim Newbrough and David Rosenberg and all the other honorees.
We are proud to honor our board member and a great leader, whose passion, excellence and invaluable contributions make a difference in the lives of our community, our organization and the many individuals he serves.
Each one of you makes an outstanding difference in our community.
Meisel-Tov!
Susi and Peter Meisel
Congratulations William Wortzman A 2020 Difference Maker
You are Making News Again! With all our love, Carol, Linda, Ron, Kathy, Ed, Beth, Danny, Janna, Brie, Chase, Edie, Ariella, Anna, Max, Camden and Danna The Cleveland Press Collection at CSU
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David M. Rosenberg M.D., MPH A mission to Cuba about a decade ago with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland spurred Dr. David M. Rosenberg to step up his efforts to address the health care needs of those who are underserved in Cleveland. Before leaving on the trip, Rosenberg decided to organize the collection of medications and supplies to help stock a clinic in Havana. When he came home, the head of the University Hospitals Ahuja Lung Center had a revelation: If doctors in Havana living on low wages could extend themselves to help those living in poverty, so could he. And he has – in a variety of initiatives. Rosenberg, 72, helped establish Alyson’s Place, at the Jewish Family Service Association of Cleveland in Pepper Pike. The medical clinic embedded within a social
“Words cannot express the warmth that I feel in my heart when patients thank me for curing their illnesses and, at times, saving their lives. It doesn’t get much better than that.”
service agency affords doctors the extra time and support needed to care for people with special needs. Rosenberg is a board member of JFSA and MedWish International in Cleveland, and volunteers at Medworks in Lyndhurst. He especially enjoys acting as a catalyst in developing new programing for these agencies. In winter 2020, he helped establish a free weekend clinic at MetroHealth System’s Severance Center campus in Cleveland Heights in partnership with Medworks and JFSA to serve those under or uninsured. “We concentrated on the Jewish community on Sunday and the general community on Saturday,” Rosenberg said. He also helped Medworks establish on-line clinics in light of the COVID-19 pandemic to connect the underserved to health care. Also, he heads Medwish’s local domestic giving program, designed to provide medical supplies and equipment to people of need within greater Cleveland. On his second day as a medical student at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Rosenberg got his white coat and was assigned to an expectant mother, whose
Mazel Tov to Dr. David Rosenberg for your selection as a 2020 Cleveland Jewish News 18 Difference Makers! From your loving family members, Fred and Lynn Rosenberg Leigh Rosenberg and Subbu Sastry Melissa, Jeremy, Laila and Campbell Bilsky
DECEMBER 4, 2020
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OCCUPATION: Director of UH Ahuja Lung Center, University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center EDUCATION: The Ohio State University in Columbus, biochemistry, BS. Medical Degree, Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland; Master of Public Health, Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee SYNAGOGUE: Park Synagogue HOMETOWN: Pepper Pike SPOUSE: Enid Rosenberg What inspires you to give back and make a difference? I am inspired to give back to the community by the incredible sense of selfsatisfaction that I receive when I am able to take any small step toward tikkun olam, making the “world a better place.” The ability to make a difference in my community has been a driving force for me in the past and will be a continued driver into the future. What is your favorite Jewish experience? In the year 2000, I had an opportunity to visit St. Petersburg, Russia, at a time when the local Jewish community was just beginning its rebirth. I will never forget the experience of witnessing the joy that the community members expressed as they embraced a faith that had previously been suppressed and a culture that had nearly been lost. What does your life say about you? I hope that my life reflects an individual who is committed to family and viewed as a highly regarded health care provider, a respected teacher, mentor and community volunteer. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? Words cannot express the warmth that I feel in my heart when patients thank me for curing their illnesses and, at times, saving their lives. It doesn’t get much better than that. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? As a physician and public health adviser, I have long subscribed to the notion that health-related decisions need to be made in a fact-based manner. However, this pandemic has taught me that the speed with which a public health crisis can sweep through every aspect of our society very much requires a unified and structured approach from multidisciplinary leadership teams in order to effectively respond.
progress he followed through his second year of medical school. That experience taught him the importance of the relationship between practitioner and patient. The program was disbanded in the mid-1990s leaving a critical gap from his perspective in the education of CWRU medical students. In 2014, with the help of Susan Bichsel, JFSA’s president and CEO, Rosenberg helped establish a course for interprofessional health care students at CWRU called Aging in Place. The course assigns a single JFSA client to a team of 3 health care students, including a medical student and with the current course design, the team follows their client over the course of an entire year. The curriculum is centered on learning about geriatrics, as well as the importance of relationship building, both with the client and among student team members. When the initial course pilot ended after six weeks, “we found out that the clients viewed themselves as teachers, educators for the next generation of clinicians,” he said, adding both the clients and students wanted the program to continue. “The students learned the importance of people’s life stories, along with the social
side of medicine and how both affect health outcomes,” said Rosenberg, who is a preceptor in the program. “Everything is not based on performing tests and diagnostics. Teaching students the importance of the human side of medicine and relationship building is critically important for the total wellbeing of a patient.” Rosenberg was born in Cleveland, raised in South Euclid and graduated from Beachwood High School in Beachwood, where he met Enid Baum, whom he married between their junior and senior years of college at The Ohio State University in Columbus. The couple raised their daughter and son in Moreland Hills and Pepper Pike. In about 2014, the two established the David and Enid Rosenberg Family Foundation at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. “Our annual meeting takes on special importance when each grandchild gets up to discuss their suggested donations” he said. “Their explanations warm my heart and truly represent tikkun olam, making the world a better place, from one generation……to the next……to the next.” – Jane Kaufman
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Congratulations to our good friends Mitchell Schneider and Richard & Beverley Uria! Bruce & Sharon Rosenbaum
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Mazel Tov TO OUR DEAR FRIEND
DAVID MILLSTONE FOR BEING RECOGNIZED FOR WHAT HE IS - A REAL “DIFFERENCE MAKER”! Ann Freimuth Marc Freimuth Marcia and Jim Murphy
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Mitchell C. Schneider Although Mitchell C. Schneider was born and raised in the area, the attorney-turned-real estate developer did not enter Cleveland’s Jewish community until adulthood. After graduating from Orange High School in Pepper Pike, Schneider enrolled in The Ohio State University in Columbus and later attended OSU Moritz College of Law with the goal of becoming a real estate attorney. He quickly secured a job at the now-defunct Kahn, Kleinman, Yanowitz & Arnson Co. in Cleveland.
“There’s people that have done much more than I have out there, there’s people that have done less than I have out there, but everybody does what they’re capable of (and) it does feel great to get feedback from people that you’ve helped out over the years.”
The firm “had some amazing Jewish leaders,” Schneider said. “Growing up, my family was not part of the organized Jewish world and I didn’t really know anything about the Jewish community – Federation or otherwise. So, it was a real eye opener to me that these organizations were out there, the work that they did and the opportunities for being involved with them.” His colleagues introduced him to organizations such as the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and ORT America, which gives students from undeserved communities access to high-quality education so they are better positioned to enter the job market with marketable skills and eventually invest back into their communities. Speaking about ORT America, Schneider said it was the wife of another lawyer at the firm who introduced him to the organization. He ultimately helped ORT’s Cleveland chapter in its mission to attract younger members. “We attracted a lot of young guys that were on pathways towards successful careers and wanted to engage with one another and help raise money for ORT here in Cleveland, and that grew into my being invited to help to start a young leadership division of ORT on a national platform, which I was excited
Congratulations, Bill! Your charitable involvements made a difference in many lives.
Norma and Harvey Kotler
William & Mitchell
We recognize you for your invaluable contributions to our community and for encouraging others!
Michele Kay & Loren “Spanky” Margolis
DECEMBER 4, 2020
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OCCUPATION: President of First Interstate Properties, Ltd; Co-Founder and Chairman of Legacy Capital Partners. EDUCATION: The Ohio State University, International Political Economy; The Ohio State University College of Law. SYNAGOGUE: Congregation Shaarey Tikvah HOMETOWN: Orange SPOUSE: Kyla Schneider What inspires you to give back and make a difference? So many people helped me through the years as a young man, attorney, and as I started my business. Many of them were generous, engaged community leaders. They were and continue to be inspiring role models and teachers. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that we grow immeasurably through giving, whether that’s our time, our talent, or our treasure. What is your favorite Jewish experience? Kyla and I had a fairly traditional Jewish wedding. We studied beforehand, spent time apart engaged in prayer and meditation, and fasted prior to coming to the chuppah. Meeting her under the chuppah with a sense of personal renewal and the start of a new life together was my best Jewish experience. What does your life say about you? I have lived with perseverance to reach for my goals, with passion and integrity and brought positive change to the world around me. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? We all know the quote, ‘When one door closes another door opens,’ but less well known is the second part of this that continues, ‘but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we don’t see the one which has opened for us.’ I have learned to spend less energy looking at closed doors and to more easily identify doors that have newly opened. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? The development of Steelyard Commons in Cleveland. This project was the redevelopment of a 100-acre former brownfield steel mill site to create a suburban-style shopping center in the heart of Cleveland’s undeserved neighborhoods. The need for modern national retailers was acute and Steelyard Commons brought fresh product, supermarkets, home improvement, fashion and retail services into what was a retail desert. Many residents had no access to quality retail at everyday prices. I think the project also helped solidify many Cleveland neighborhoods and has been one of the building blocks of their current renaissance. It also generated more than $300,000 in scholarships to support Cleveland students’ college educations.
to do,” said Schneider, whose involvement in ORT led to his first visit to Israel in the 1980s. “It was a great set of opportunities that I’m not sure I really would have found or been exposed to but for not ... a large number of these attorneys and their clients,” Schneider said. “They really were such an amazing example of what it meant to give back to the community.” Schneider left the firm in 1989 – after five years – to start First Interstate Properties, Ltd. He said his decision to start the business was at least partially inspired by Kahn, Kleinman, Yanowitz & Arnson, as his work at the firm exposed him to the development side of real estate, more specifically, shopping center development. He said a couple of attorneys and some clients from the firm agreed to partner with him, and with their help, he opened a one man shop on Chagrin Boulevard. That was 31 years and roughly 4 million square feet of shopping center space ago. The company has now pivoted to residential development. “I get a lot of pleasure and great personal satisfaction from the physical buildings that
we’ve built and the way that they’ve changed the landscape,” Schneider said. He is also proud of the jobs his developments have created and their impact on local schools. “The tax benefits to the communities that we’ve built properties in has really become so meaningful to the school systems where these properties are located,” Schneider said. “In many of the places where we built these properties, it was a visible change in the quality of the schools. It’s really felt pretty rewarding.” First Interstate Properties also makes an effort to support college-bound high school graduates with scholarships and supports charitable organizations with the same goal. “I try to keep it all in perspective,” Schneider said. “There’s people that have done much more than I have out there, there’s people that have done less than I have out there, but everybody does what they’re capable of (and) it does feel great to get feedback from people that you’ve helped out over the years.” – Skylar Dubelko
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Leading by Example.
We salute Mt. Sinai Director Susan R. Hurwitz and all of the 2020 Difference Makers' contributions to Cleveland's outstanding Jewish community.
Ulmer congratulates David W. Leopold and all of the honorees on this year’s Cleveland Jewish News List of 18 Difference Makers. Your tremendous dedication and service to the Northeast Ohio Jewish community is an inspiration to us all. ®
Our business begins with you.
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Judge Dan A. Polster CLEVELAND
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Mitchell Balk President
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JodiLyn Solomon JodiLyn Solomon’s daughter, Rose, attended an overnight summer camp for transgender children in New Hampshire in 2015 and 2016. “It was great the first year, and then the second year, as they were becoming more teenagery, it did not work as well,” Solomon said. Solomon, the parent of two transgender young adults, met with Ann Williams because Williams’ grandson went to camp with Solomon’s daughter, Rose. Together, they began formulating plans for a camp specifically for transgender and gender diverse teens. Shortly thereafter, Solomon’s older child, AJ, jumped on board as the first administrator and has been integral to the process. Camp Lilac was incorporated in January 2017 and ran its first two sessions in Northeast Ohio in August of that year. Sixteen campers attended. School started early that year, conflicting with the camp’s second week session. “A lot of the kids called their family towards the end of the first week and begged to stay instead of starting school,” said Solomon, 52, who is Camp Lilac’s executive director. “And their parents, for the most part, let them stay because it was so important.”
Designed for campers ages 12 to 17, the camp attracted 26 teens in its second summer, and 47 in its third, in 2019. It also offers a counselor-in-training program. The weeklong camp is staffed by a group of vetted volunteers, ages 19 to 74. In its first three years, Camp offered an in-person experience similar to many other camps: canoeing, campfires, sports, archery, arts and crafts. Camp Lilac offers transgender-specific activities as well, such as hair and makeup, vocal training, and a workshop on the making and safe use of chest binders. “Trans people often have body dysphoria, and trans-masculine folks often feel a need to bind their chests to help with that,” said Solomon. “Binders can be very expensive. Also, depending on the camper’s home life, they may not be able to get one delivered to their house.” “It’s different living in the world as a trans person as opposed to someone who is simply LGB. The issues are different, and it can feel more dangerous and burdensome to go through the world as transgender or gender diverse. Camp
Mazel Tov! 2020 ‘18 Difference Makers’ Award Honoree William Wortzman, CPA, Esq. From all of us at LifeAct, we extend our congratulations
DECEMBER 4, 2020
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OCCUPATION: Executive Director of GenderSphere, dba Camp Lilac EDUCATION: Brandeis University, BA In Near Eastern and Judaic studies. Master of Jewish Studies, Master of Library and Information Science, Master of Education. SYNAGOGUE: Kol HaLev, Cleveland’s Reconstructionist Jewish Community in Pepper Pike HOMETOWN: Shaker Heights SPOUSE: Larry Solomon What inspires you to give back and make a difference? It is how I was raised. It is an important part of my family culture and Jewish culture. So many of the mitzvot help us know that we need to help and support one another. I also have always been a helper. I feel fortunate having had the experiences and opportunities I have had, and I feel honored to be able to use some of that to help others when I can. What is your favorite Jewish experience? My favorite holidays are Shabbat and Pesach. I really liked living in Israel for a while. I like keeping kosher, and I really like being part of a Jewish community. What does your life say about you? I am optimistic. But I would like my life to say more about others than myself. I am the mother of two amazing kids. I am the daughter of two amazing parents. I am the captain of a ship full of crew for Camp Lilac. I like to help, and help others help themselves. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? It gives people a different perspective. When everything was in person, it was difficult for introverts, for example, and now the introverts are comfortable, and the extroverts need more consideration. This is a simple example, of course. I have learned how divided we truly are as a country and even as a community. We all need to work hard to be kind. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? My children are my greatest success. They are each amazing.
Lilac gives folks a place to be themselves,” she said. “They can try on different clothes, try out different names and pronouns and feel a sense of camaraderie with people who really get them. A lot of the kids who come to us haven’t chosen a permanent name yet and haven’t started dressing to reflect their gender identity, and so it’s a safe and supportive space where they can really talk to people who are just like them.” In light of the COVID-19 pandemic Camp Lilac went digital this summer, attracting over 30 campers on the virtual platform. Prior to the pandemic, more than 60 campers had applied to take part
in the in-person experience. Raised in Chester Township, Solomon attended Conservative synagogues in her youth. Currently a member of Kol HaLev, the local Reconstructionist congregation, Solomon said she sees a connection between her commitment to Judaism and Camp Lilac. “Respecting another person for who they are – in Judaism there is this expectation that people are holy beings,” Solomon said. “We are B’tselem Elohim, created in the image of G-d.” – Jane Kaufman
and our thanks for all that you do to empower youth in our community to take charge of their mental health – your work will strengthen Northeast Ohio for generations to come. LifeAct’s Mission is to prevent teen suicide by educating youth to recognize depression and the warning signs of suicide and access help for themselves and or their peers.
www.LifeAct.org • (216) 464-3471
“So many of the mitzvot help us know that we need to help and support one another. I also have always been a helper. I feel fortunate having had the experiences and opportunities I have had, and I feel honored to be able to use some of that to help others when I can.”
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Making a difference in our community. CONGRATULATIONS, MIRIAM PEARLMUTTER & CHARLES DAROFF.
Business Services | Hospitality & Liquor Control | Education | Litigation | Real Estate Intellectual Property | Labor & Employment | Public Law | Tax & Wealth Management CLEVELAND
216.781.1212 | COLUMBUS 614.246.2150 | MAYFIELD HEIGHTS 440.605.6660 | AVON 440.652.1160
walterhav.com |
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Wendy Spitz Wendy Spitz is a Beachwood native whose genuine desire to give back to her hometown is evident during even a short conversation. “This is very hard for me because I’m a very private person,” Spitz said. “I don’t like to talk about myself. I’m much more comfortable doing for others.” She began her career as a school social worker, first in the Cleveland HeightsUniversity Heights City School District then in the South Euclid-Lyndhurst City School District. After her first child was born, she entered the classroom as an intervention specialist, but after her second child was born, Spitz said her life became “a little chaotic.” “I ended up working for a nonprofit, doing educational advocacy work and teaching social skills class,” Spitz said. “Then the National Council of Jewish
“I see it with both of my kids, wanting to help and bring joy to people, especially people that are homebound right now.”
Women developed LiveSpecial.com and needed help – it was implemented, but they were looking for a coordinator. It just kind of was a good match.” LiveSpecial.com is a free and comprehensive Northeast Ohio resource for all things required to support individuals with special needs and their families. Its community resource guide provides the most current medical, social and rehabilitative services and access information needed to help support any age person with special needs. As the coordinator for LiveSpecial.com and an independent consultant for NCJW/ CLE, Spitz said those seeking help can give her a call and she’s more than happy to conduct a brainstorming session to find the best resources and programming for an individual’s needs. According to Spitz, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a catalyst for change when it comes to how the organization conducts its programming. “We do free programming now via Zoom, but it used to be in-person all over greater Northeast Ohio at different
CONGRATULATIONS DIFFERENCE MAKER The World Needs MORE People Like
DECEMBER 4, 2020
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OCCUPATION: Coordinator at LiveSpecial.com; Independent Consultant for NCJW/CLE EDUCATION: University of Hartford, Bachelor of Science in special education; Case Western Reserve University, Master of Science in Social Administration in child and adolescents mental health and school social work SYNAGOGUE: Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple HOMETOWN: Moreland Hills SPOUSE: Danny Spitz What inspires you to give back and make a difference? Knowing that I can help to make the world a better place. What is your favorite Jewish experience? Growing up, weekly Friday night dinners with my family, grandparents, aunt, uncles and cousins. What does your life say about you? I hope it says I live life to the fullest while leading by example. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? How many paper towels my family goes through in a day – no seriously, how short life is... live everyday like it’s the last and don’t take your health for granted. What has been your biggest challenge? Not enough time in the day!
locations and we’d work together with other organizations and do a big expo once a year,” Spitz explained. “I actually have to say that, if we implemented the (online) programming before COVID, I think a lot of our parents would have struggled, but actually, the Zoom programming takes out a lot of barriers that we struggled with.” The organization no longer has to scour the area for free rooms in central locations along handicap accessible bus lines. “Families had to get good at virtual, whether it was for their children or for themselves, (the COVID-19 pandemic) kind of forced them into the virtual world,” Spitz said. “Although we want everybody to tune in live, sometimes we know it’s not possible, and it’s nice, because most of our programming can be recorded and watched at your own time.” Spitz said her role at LiveSpecial.com has not stopped her from continuing
to give back to Cleveland-area schools. She said her children are students in the Orange City School District, with her oldest a senior. Spitz said she has been involved in the PTA, among other programs in the district, since he was a kindergartener. Spitz said she is proud of her kids for also wanting to give back to their community. “Both of my kids are involved with Friendship Circle and have been since 7th grade – they’re giving back,” Spitz said. Spitz said Friendship Circle has created great virtual programming during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I see it with both of my kids, wanting to help and bring joy to people,” Spitz said. “Especially people that are homebound right now.” – Skylar Dubelko
KENNY KOBLITZ Congratulations Beverley and Richard on this honor. Well-deserved. You guys are role models for the entire community. Timothy A. Dimoff, CEO/P resident
Tovah and Noam Magence
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Mazel Tov to our dear friends Richard & Beverley Uria on this momentous honor. Love, The BeRgman Family
Mazel Tov Beverley and Richard on this outstanding achievement. We are all very proud of both of you!
The Israelstam Family
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Ali Stern Ali Stern is grateful to live in a place like Cleveland. “There are a lot of options for how you can express yourself spiritually and find a Jewish school that fits the values of your family and the community and there’s space to grow and create,” Stern said. A grant writer for The Jewish Agency for Israel, the largest Jewish nonprofit organization in the world, Stern first worked from New York, then remotely from Israel. When her husband matched at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital for his residency, the Stern family relocated to Cleveland. “I love getting feedback from the fundraisers after I write a grant and a fundraiser submits it to a donor and then
“Knowing that what I write can actually make a difference in somebody’s life, that I helped get funding for a program that helps people, is really rewarding.”
gets back to me and says, ‘They loved what you wrote, they’re going to give more than they originally said they would,’” Stern said when asked about her job. “Knowing that what I write can actually make a difference in somebody’s life, that I helped get funding for a program that helps people, is really rewarding.” Stern is very proud of her work toward the creation of the Cleveland Partnership Minyan. “There were other people, many of us who are not originally from Cleveland, who were missing a true partnership minyan here and felt like that was the one thing we were sort of missing from our spiritual lives, and creating that was tremendously rewarding, and looking and seeing it grow over time has been a really thrilling experience,” Stern said. “We’re currently on hiatus because of COVID, but it was, and continues to be, a really beautiful community of people who really want to bring something special and unique to Jewish Cleveland and I’m grateful that I got to be a part of that and I still get to be a part of that.” She said even small acts of kindness make a big difference. Stern recently volunteered as a vote chaser, calling individuals who requested a mail in ballot, but never sent it
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OCCUPATION: Grantwriter at The Jewish Agency for Israel EDUCATION: Brandeis University, Bachelor of Arts, sociology, Near East and Judaic studies; The Hebrew University, Master of Arts, community leadership and philanthropy studies SYNAGOGUE: Oheb Zedek Cedar Sinai Synagogue in Lyndhurst; The Cleveland Partnership Minyan HOMETOWN: Beachwood SPOUSE: Noam Stern What inspires you to give back and make a difference? My grandparents were both Holocaust survivors and really stressed the importance of a strong and vibrant Jewish community and giving back. My parents always taught me that you had to be an informed citizen and engaged in your community and they showed me by example. My mom would always take my sister and myself to places where they needed young people to volunteer. My dad made us watch the news and read the paper and wanted to hear what we had to say and what our thoughts were and always stressed that things get better when good people step up and that you can never depend on other people making a difference, that we all have a responsibility to make a change. So I would say it’s the way I was raised. What is your favorite Jewish experience? There was a program called Genesis at Brandeis. It was for high school students and you would go and you would take college-level classes over the course of the summer and it was a Jewish pluralist program. That’s where I met my husband. I grew up Reform and it was really the first time that I interacted in any sort of meaningful way with Jews my age from across the Jewish spectrum, and it was my real first exposure to a more observant Jewish lifestyle, which is what I hold now. That program really put me on my entire life trajectory. What does your life say about you? I would hope it would say that I’m someone who cares, that I’m someone who wants the people in my life to feel truly loved and that I’m doing what I can so that my children grow up in a world that is kinder and more welcoming and more just. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? We moved to Cleveland about eight years ago and it’s shown that I’ve made really, really incredible friends. I’ve been able to keep in touch, throughout all of this, with people who are my friends and neighbors and we’ve kind of created a mini virtual community, we’re in touch with each other a lot, and it shows you who you really care about and who, in your life, nurtures you emotionally, and I’m really blessed to have made really supportive, incredible friends who I feel are like my family. What has been your biggest challenge? I’m very self-critical and when you are too self-critical, it can really be debilitating. It’s something that I’ve been working very hard on, so that my children don’t grow up picking apart what they do constantly. So I’m trying to practice a little bit more self awareness and be a little bit more mindful when I’m being unnecessarily critical of myself.
back to the board of elections, to make sure it was received and answer any questions. She said she caught one young man on a day where he felt like sharing. “He was going through a lot and we talked for a while and he was having some issues with the legal system and the criminal justice system,” Stern said. “He told me he didn’t really have anybody else to talk to in his life and he wanted to know if he could text me after his court date. I said that he could and we’ve been in touch and he shared with me that, what he really needed in his life, more than anything else, was a male role model and for someone to set a good example for him and get him back on track.” Stern was able to connect him with a social worker she knew and said he is now on track to receive services “for possibly the first time in his life.” “You never know what’s gonna happen
when you make these calls and this was unexpected,” Stern said. “Just because of how the stars aligned, I was able to interact with one person, and hopefully, that’s something that can make a difference to that one person.” She said the person she looks up to most is her mother, who Stern described as an outgoing, “amazing, amazing person.” “She’s always taught me that you make your own happiness, that if you’re in a situation and it’s not serving you, you have the ability to change it,” Stern said. “She’s very involved in the community and her motto is basically the campsite rule, which is you are to leave people better than how you found them. She’s always been that way and it’s just inspiring.” – Skylar Dubelko
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IN TRIBUTE TO
MITCHELL SCHNEIDER A 2020 DIFFERENCE MAKER YOU HAVE CLEARLY MADE A DIFFERENCE IN LAUNCHING THE HEBREW ACADEMY OF CLEVELAND’S VISION 2020 OAKWOOD CAMPUS. YOU HAVE HELPED MAKE OUR DREAM A REALITY.
WITH GREAT APPRECIATION, IVAN A. SOCLOF
AMIR JAFFA
REUVEN DESSLER
Vision 2020 Building Chairs
RABBI SIMCHA DESSLER Educational Director
DR. LOUIS MALCMACHER
RABBI ELI DESSLER
President
Financial Director
Beaming from across the globe!
Richard and Beverley, We are very fortunate to know that what you do from the kindness of your hearts with your selfless good deeds are just some of the ways you are doing Tikkun Olam, repairing the world.
Loving Siblings
Mom & Dad
Ann and Selwyn Uria (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Stacey and Mark Uria (Johannesburg, South Africa) Nicole and Larry Uria (Sydney, Australia) Michelle and Ari Gur (Giv’at Shmuel, Israel) and all of your Nieces and Nephews from around the world.
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Beverley Uria and Richard Uria When Beverley and Richard Uria met as teenagers through Johannesburg’ South Africa’s Jewish community, they had no idea that they would spend their lives together – let alone in the United States. It wasn’t until several years later that they began dating and then married. Both had attended Jewish day schools and lived in the suburbs of South Africa’s largest city. “Our synagogue was vandalized or spray-painted outside with swastikas and anti-Semitic slogans,” Richard said. “We grew up during apartheid and a very challenging time for the country.” Beverley, 44, remembers hearing anti-Semitic epithets shouted at school sporting events. They decided to emigrate as their homeland was undergoing the transition from apartheid to equality amid great political and economic instability. The couple said South Africa is the most gorgeous country and they feel blessed to have grown up there, but for the then-newlyweds, it was time to move on. They still visit Richard’s
In addition to giving of themselves, the Urias encourage their children to do the same.
family in South Africa as often as they can. The two followed Beverley’s mother’s sister and brother and their spouses to Cleveland. They settled in Beachwood and immediately dove into the Jewish community, connecting with Solon Chabad of Solon and Jewish Family Experience in University Heights. Beverley taught at Gross Schechter Day School in Pepper Pike, where all three of their children have attended. In addition, they were early supporters of Cleveland’s participation in the Shabbos Project, which they co-hosted this year. It was founded by South African Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein in 2013. The commemoration serves as a call to Jews around the world to join in celebration of the weekly day of rest. “You are so divided according to how you observe,” said Beverley, explaining that in South Africa, Jews tend to be more cohesive. “If you are Jewish, this is for you. This is your time to come together. We wanted to bring it to America.” As South African Jews, the couple grew up with a strong sense of connection with the state of Israel, they said. Once in Cleveland, Richard, 45, was invited to a Detroit event for the Friends of the Israel
.עלינו להיות השינוי שאנו רוצים לראות בעולם
Be the change you want to see in the world. Kol Hakavod to our friend Mitchell Schneider and all of this year’s Difference Makers for all you do for our community. Amy, Ted, Emily, Orly and Kobi Einhorn Nancy, Rob, Micah, Noah and Avi Zimmerman
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OCCUPATION: Beverley – teacher and community volunteer; Richard – business development and account executive, Northwest Hardwoods SYNAGOGUE: Solon Chabad HOMETOWN: Beachwood What inspires you to give back and make a difference? Our upbringing and Jewish education in South Africa What is your favorite Jewish experience? Taking our boys to Israel as a family. What does your life say about you? We love family, our community and being connected. What one thing have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? To slow down and be present. We only had moments and now we have time. What has been your biggest challenge? Immigration, establishing our new lives. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? Our three boys Who do you look up to and why? Our parents. They have instilled core values in both of us and continuously encourage us to be our best. What’s your favorite local charity and why? Friends of the Israel Defense Forces and Jewish Federation of Cleveland. Supporting our men and women of the IDF who protect Jews all across the world and Federation for supporting the Jewish community. If you could take a 3-month sabbatical from work, how would you spend it? Experience life in Israel with our boys.
Defense Forces. He then helped bring that same concept, Guys Night Out, to Cleveland, and they are about to enter their 10th year of this event. Richard said he wants to show support to the soldiers, which he called “the brave men and women of the IDF who are protecting Jews all around the world.” Once when Richard was in Jerusalem on an FIDF mission, a lone soldier from London approached the group to thank them. He happened to be carrying an FIDF backpack. It was a moving interaction to Richard, who is the current chair of the Ohio chapter. Beverley, meanwhile, is developing a women’s division. She hosted an event featuring Krav Maga, the Israeli martial arts form that is used by the IDF. The program was to train women in self-defense techniques. Having seen heavy security at Jewish institutions in South Africa – largely through the efforts of civilians – both appreciate the role of individuals in maintaining security in the Jewish community.
“As a Jew I’m always watching over my shoulder,” Richard said. He has worked security for the Chabad Jewish Center of Solon, where both are on the security roster. At the Federation, Richard serves on the community relations committee and Cleveland Israel Arts Connection. He is taking the Mandel Course for Advanced Leadership and has been nominated for the three-year Wexner Heritage Program, also a leadership training program. In addition to giving of themselves, the Urias encourage their children to do the same. Their two older boys, who are teenagers, have volunteered at the Friendship Circle in Pepper Pike and at the Cleveland Kosher Food Pantry in South Euclid. “Give, give, give,” Beverley said of the philosophy she grew up with and tries to impart to her children. “It’s not about yourself. … Be connected. Be involved.” – Jane Kaufman
Dear Beverley and Richard Congratulations on this wonderful honor•
'
You truly inspire us all to make a difference• Lara and Gary Isakov
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Hawken School applauds Mitchell Schneider for being a CJN 2020 Difference Maker and making our community better!
COEDUCATIONAL, TODDLER – GRADE 12 hawken.edu
congratulates
Mitchell Schneider for making a difference in our community. Wishing continued strength and success.
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William Wortzman William Wortzman secured a bakery job as an elementary school student and stayed until college. “I only went to school a half a day – I was on a work study program, so there was a lot of sacrifice along the way, because I didn’t really get a chance to participate in activities in school, but I was able to help my family and that was more important at that time in my life,” Wortzman said. “I knew what it was like to work in front of a hot oven for many years in a bakery, so I could see that that wasn’t what I wanted to do the rest of my life. I went to college, got a couple of degrees and a couple of licenses, and life has treated me pretty well as a result of all that.” Wortzman is passionate about charitable work and giving back to his community. He said Jewish Family Service Association of Cleveland has been helping his family since before he was born, explaining his mother had a lot on her plate with four children, two of whom struggled with mental illness. Wortzman ultimately became the
Wortzman is passionate about charitable work and giving back to his community.
organization’s board chair and now serves as a life director. “It’s an honor and it’s incredibly satisfying, because they continue to help us today,” Wortzman said of his work supporting the organization. His younger brother lives in a group home and his case managed by JFSA. “They started helping my family when I was a child, because I had an older brother that was mentally ill, and they’re helping my younger brother today,” Wortzman said. “They helped us with everything you can conceive of. There was food, there was clothing, there was money. I got a scholarship to go to college, and they helped us with case management and counseling. It’s an incredible organization and we do everything to help people in need.” Wortzman was the only person in his family to attend college. He said he has been ambitious since childhood. “I’ve been working hard ever since I was a child and I’m still working hard in my career,” Wortzman said. “At this point, I’m in my 70s.” He is a certified public accountant and an attorney, and continues to practice in both professions. He said he was recruited
Mazel Tov
Bev & Richard Uria, Rabbi Adler and Miriam Pearlmutter for making a difference in our community.
Thank you! Teri and Dan German
You’ve made a difference in SO MANY lives! Congratulations, David! Norma and Harvey Kotler
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OCCUPATION: President of Wortzman & Gingerich Company EDUCATION: Fenn College, Bachelor of Business Administration, accounting major; Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. SYNAGOGUE: Participates in Celebrating Jewish Life HOMETOWN: Moreland Hills What inspires you to give back and make a difference? My mother was impoverished and dealing with two sons with mental illness. She was provided services by JFSA and financial assistance by the government. My significant volunteer work in the community provides me with the opportunity to help families with the same needs as my mother encountered. What is your biggest success up until now that you’re most proud of? My role as the chairman of JFSA for over four years, the organization that helped my family, and providing leadership during a period when their continuing existence was threatened. If money was no object, what would you do all day? I would concentrate on day trading in the market and continue to give all the profits to charities. What is your favorite memory? My favorite memory was seeing my mother honored for her charity work. She was a significant fundraiser in spite of encountering serious challenges in her life. Who do you look up to and why? The late Leonard Horvitz and his family – they taught me how to be generous in helping charities and in helping people in the community with my time and resources.
by Ernst & Young and took a job there after graduating from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law in Cleveland to improve his accounting skills in order to take the certified public accountant exam. “But I stayed with them in taxation and became a tax professional there,” Wortzman said. “In those years, half of their tax staff were lawyers and half were CPAs, and of course I was both, so I was highly motivated. I don’t know where that came from, but it was there and it was part of me.” He now serves as president of Wortzman & Gingerich Co., a CPA firm in Beachwood. Wortzman has done charitable work in Cleveland’s Jewish and non-Jewish communities. He said, these days, he is drawn to fundraising. “I’ve gravitated towards fundraising after literally being an officer or committee chair in every type of committee that exists in a charity – I’ve tried everything, because
I get bored easily,” Wortzman said. “It’s very gratifying to raise money when you’re emotionally tied to an organization because of what they’re accomplishing in the community.” He said each organization he is involved in helps individuals with mental disabilities. “I’m working in organizations that have a mission that really was part of our family issue, in terms of the problems that needed to be solved; of course, you never solved mental illness – you deal with it as best you can, so that’s what I’m raising money for,” Wortzman said. “It’s very gratifying, because everyone wants to make a gift. Some people can’t afford a gift, but we figure out a way for them to make a gift. It’s not always money; it could be their time, their energy, but it’s very satisfying.” – Skylar Dubelko
Congratulating all of our Difference Makers for 2020. Thank you all for your hard work . Jeff and Kathy Cohen
Cnrtltos
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Richard & Beverley Uria Thank you for being such good friends and positive difference makers in our community! Love, Kelly & Adam Covitt Heather & Alan Greenberg Beth & Brian Robbins
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Congratulations
to Bill Wortman on your well-deserved honor as a difference maker From Brian and Dulcey Gingerich
Kenny, you have always made a BIG difference. Much deserved. Mazel Tov, Allen and Judy.
Mazel Tov 2020 CJN Difference Makers Charles Daroff Beverley and Richard Uria Mitchell Schneider The impact you all have had in the Jewish community and beyond makes us all proud!
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ORT Ohio Region congratulates
MITCHELL SCHNEIDER on being named a 2020 Difference Maker
Wishing Rich and Beverly a Mazel Tov on this well-deserved recognition and honor!
Congratulations Kenny, the biggest Difference Maker & best Dad & Grandfather we know!
With admiration, Danielle and Jeff Wild
From those pictured that love you so much!
2020
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To our Mitchell, Dad and Abba: As husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, friend, colleague, business partner, leader, coach, mentor and life of the party extraordinaire - You have made ALL the difference in ALL of our lives. Our love for you is infinite Kyla, Sari, Seth, Ramie, Sam, Keeva, Everly and Ellis