DJN December 3 2020 by The Detroit Jewish News

Summer Camp Guide

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200 Dec. 3-9, 2020 / 17-23 Kislev 5781

The Abraham Accords: A New Beginning? Arab nations are lining up to normalize relations with Israel. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what awaits the Jewish state down the road. See page 28

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contents Dec. 3-9, 2020 / 17-23 Kislev 5781 | VOLUME CLVIII, ISSUE 18

18 14

VIEWS

ERETZ

6-13

JEWS INTHED

Arab nations are lining up to normalize relations with Israel. Here’s what awaits the Jewish state down the line.

Chanukah, Safely

Some Detroit traditions move forward, but others are shelved.

CAMP GUIDE

ARTS 34

‘Kids Need Camp’

35 Back at Tamarack Summer camp plans for in-person 2021 sessions, with precautions.

Camp Listings

MOMENTS

Moments

SPIRIT

The ‘Beyoncé of Israel’

Shiri Maimon to guest at Temple Israel’s Lake Concert.

Camps “cautiously optimistic” about the summer of 2021.

What’s Next for Israel After the Abraham Accords?

Celebrity Jews

ONLINE EVENTS 36

ETC.

The Exchange Soul Raskin Looking Back

37 38 45 46

Torah portion

36 Under 36 nominations are now open! We have amazing young talent in Metro Detroit’s Jewish Community - it’s time to recognize and celebrate it!

To see winners from the past four years (so as to avoid nominating them again this year), visit meetyouatthewell.org/36under36 and click on the designated link!

Shabbat Lights

Shabbat starts: Friday, Dec. 4, 4:10 p.m. Shabbat ends: Saturday, Dec. 5, 5:14 p.m. * Times according to Yeshiva Beth Yehuda

ON THE COVER: The Abraham Accords signing ceremony at the White House. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images and JTA) Cover design: Michelle Sheridan

thejewishnews.com Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook @DetroitJewishNews • Twitter @JewishNewsDet • Instagram @detroitjewishnews OUR JN MISSION: We aspire to communicate news and opinion that’s trusted, valued, engaging and distinctive. We strive to reflect diverse community viewpoints while also advocating positions that strengthen Jewish unity and continuity. As an independent, responsible, responsive community member, we actively engage with individuals and organizations dedicated to enhancing the quality of life, and Jewish life, in Southeast Michigan.

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

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DECEMBER 3 • 2020

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VIEWS for openers

A Royal Encounter

t’s official! The recounts are done, and it can now be certified that Dewey did defeat Truman! No word yet from the Dewey Campaign, but his brothers Huey and Louie are said to be ecstatic. According to the Center for Responsive Politics — wait, really? There’s a center for “responsive” politics? Yes, there is, and according to their statistics, the combined Alan spending for 2020 campaigns Muskovitz for the White House and congressional races will reach $14 billion. So, for the sake of argument, let’s say that means roughly $7 billion was spent on losing. Amazing, but probably still less than the Lions have spent on losing since their last championship in 1957. So that means $7 billion was spent on candidates that won’t even have a chance to get anything done. And I’m talking about the politicians who won. As the mayhem that was this last election continues, I’m just happy I have a new diversion — watching Season 4 of the The Crown on Netflix! Spoiler alert. This season spends a fair amount of time on the huge security breach at Buckingham Palace in 1982, where Brit citizen Michael Fagan scaled the palace walls and snuck into the Queen’s bedroom as she slept. Could’ve been worse — she could’ve been on the throne. (Easy, cheap laugh.) Fagan said the Queen was sleeping with her crown over her face. But that turned out to be her jeweled CPAP mask. After years of being in and out of trouletters

ble with the law, Fagan, 72, still resides in London where, apparently, he’s survived a heart attack and a case of COVID. In our world of endless reality TV shows, wouldn’t you love to see a reunion between Fagan and the 94-year old Elizabeth on The Real Housewife/Queen of England? How is it that I’m such an expert on all things royal? Well, my dear commoners, I actually had a very memorable encounter with a royal myself. Yep, thanks to Weight Watchers (WW) president and CEO Florine Mark, I got to meet and interview the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, divorced wife of Prince Andrew. You may recall that “Fergie” was a spokesperson for Weight Watchers. In that capacity, she paid a visit to Florine’s WW headquarters in Farmington Hills in the late ’90s. I was an invited guest from the Dick Purtan Show, charged with conducting an interview between the Duchess, myself and Dick Purtan, who was on the phone live from our WOMC studios. At first, I was suspicious of Florine’s motives. I thought it was a set up for a weight loss intervention for me. What ensued though was a fun, tongue-in-cheek exchange. I told the Duchess that “I had a slight metabolic problem, a glandular problem” and had been told that “it’s impossible for me to lose weight.” I asked if there was something she could do to help somebody like me? Fergie replied: “Yes. Take them by the ear and put them into Weight Watchers and say, ‘Come on, this really can help.’” I informed her I had actually lost a little bit of weight recently, enough that: “I no longer

Rabbi Sacks We are longtime subscribers to the Detroit Jewish News, continuing even after our departure and move from Bloomfield Hills to Palm Beach in 1970. We recently read the excellent article in the Nov. 12 DJN on Lord Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, “An Intellectual Giant.”

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

Fergie and Alan

have to stop at those truck weigh stations on the expressway.” I went on to tell her that “I avoid exercise because it tires me out,” to which she chuckled and said: “Well you know that’s pretty funny because, in fact, my trainer says that the more you exercise, the more it gets you going. So maybe, Al, that’s a bit of a porkie pie.” Porkie pie? Was that on the WW menu? Turns out “porkie pie” is cockney slang for “telling lies.” Part of Fergie’s Motown itinerary included recognizing local people who had lost 100 pounds on WW. Already 50 pounds overweight myself, she didn’t go for my idea of putting on another 50 so I could one day join that elite group of 100-pound losers. My guess at that point was Fergie didn’t need any convincing that I was already a “loser.” Today, I think of Fergie every time I jump on my scale. I wait for the number … and then demand a recount. Alan Muskovitz is a writer, voice-over/acting talent, speaker, and emcee. Visit his website at laughwithbigal.com,“Like” Al on Facebook and reach him at amuskovitz@renmedia.us.

We were honored to meet and spend time with Rabbi Sacks here in Palm Beach. He was the featured guest and speaker at our Palm Beach Fellowship of Christians and Jews Annual Dinner held at The Breakers. The next day, as board members, we hosted and had the honor of sitting with Rabbi Sacks at a luncheon in his honor.

He was so personable and interesting. We left the luncheon thinking how memorable our time at the dinner and luncheon had been with Rabbi Sacks. We were reminded reading the JN article of what an astounding and phenomenal man Rabbi Sacks truly was. We should all be so proud of him. He will be greatly missed.

— Michael and Ann Small

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essay

Why Do Christians Support Israel?

was interviewed by a journalist recently about the phenomena of Christian support for Israel. As much as this is something that has been central in my life for most of my adult life, it’s something that most don’t understand. The interview came up in light of two recent events, but needs to be discussed openly. It’s a revolutionary phenomenon, Jonathan turning the tide Feldstein on the history of Jewish-Christian relations since the early church 1,700 years ago. The two catalysts were the appointment of Israel’s first Bishop, Dr. Glenn Plummer of Detroit, representing the largest Black church in the world, the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), and the airing of a documentary on Israeli television about Christian support. This also came on the heals of an incredible Detroit-area event in which I had the privilege to participate virtually, the 16th annual “Thank God for Israel” event co-sponsored by the Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry and the Michigan Jewish Action Council. For most of my career, and a significant part of my adult life, I have been centrally involved in building bridges among Christians of all backgrounds. It’s the raison d’etre of the Genesis 123 Foundation of which I have the privilege to be president. Together with a diverse board, we’ve pioneered

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

a variety of programs that bring Jews and Christians together, building understanding with an emphasis on the things that unite us: the God of Israel, the Land of Israel, the People of Israel and the State of Israel. I was always aware of perfunctory interfaith activities, such as model Passover Seders and the like. These make people feel good, but rarely engendered very much substantive personal or ongoing interaction, or genuine relationships. Over the decades, as I have spent my time building bridges anchored in meaningful personal relationships, I realize that despite how far we have come, there’s much more to be done. Too many Jews believe Christian support for Israel has a nefarious agenda. This was highlighted in the Israeli documentary, and in allegations about Bishop Plummer (see JN, Nov. 12, pg. 28). Indeed, Jews and Christians have some major theological differences. These shouldn’t be ignored. But we have much more in common, beginning from the foundational elements of the Torah, and all of Tanach, which represents some 80 percent of the Christian bible. Yes, maybe there’s an agenda among some who don’t support the growing fellowship and healing of a breach that started when “the Church” defined itself by “replacement theology.” Many, maybe even most Christians, don’t know the history of “the Church” included horrific crimes against the Jewish people. For many who

A Jew and a Christian pass on an Israeli street.

do understand, there’s a significant element of repentance involved with their relationship with the Jewish people today. For most, Jews and Christians, there’s a centuries-long breach that takes time to bridge. While I and many others are actively engaged in doing so, and we want everyone to see and understand things as we do, undoing this rift takes time. I explain to Christians that Jews carry millennia of baggage, including horrific persecution in the name of “the Church” and Jesus. Please give us time. Conversely, while aware of the phenomena of Christian support, most Jews don’t understand, don’t trust or simply don’t care. Ironically, many Christian friends had never heard of “replacement theology.” When it’s explained, they shudder in horror, disbelief and embarrassment that it was ever (and still is) prevalent. For many, it’s another thing for which they feel compelled to repent. So, what’s the significance of Christian support for Israel and why is that important? Of course, it’s true that financial support is important. Christian support positively impacts tourism to Israel and donations to a wide range of nonprofits. The significance of these are not to be taken for granted. However, personally, I hate the objectification of so many good Christians who

are viewed as a faith-based ATM, with some just trying to get money out with very little relationship. This is common among too many, Christians and Jews, whose nonprofits make claims and take advantage. Tourism professionals sometimes miss the boat by emphasizing the significance of tourism for the Israeli economy, but not the significance of visiting Israel as a pivotal milestone in adding depth and dimension to one’s faith. Diplomatic and political support for Israel is also critical. Many are involved in this formally, both among influencers in countries around the world and on a grassroots level. The latter is particularly important in democratic countries where Christians have influence. Israel has many natural resources, in addition to its special brain power that drives so much of the startup nation reality that benefits the world. Having too many friends has never been one of our challenges. When Christians support Israel on a grassroots level, that trickles up. An example of this is the recent Global Prayer for Israel and Virtual Pilgrimage in which thousands participated from all around the world. The third point that I answered the journalist as to the significance of Christian support for Israel is prayer. Most Jews and Christians believe in God and, in our respective ways, the value and importance

KAREN AXELRAD/FLICKR VIA CREATIVE COMMONS

VIEWS

of prayer, especially when that prayer is to the Creator. As much as it’s the case that Israel cannot have too many friends, another thing to which most would agree is that you can’t have too much prayer. Israel’s independence was a theological tsunami. Until then, most of “the Church” was rooted in centuries of thinking that God was done with the Jews. That we had not yet been restored to Israel fed this notion, paradoxically undermining the faith of its adherents. If nothing else, Israel’s independence was affirmation that not only was God not done with us, but that He has affirmed His promises vis a vis the Jewish people as in the Torah. The return of the Jewish people to Israel after thousands of years in exile is not only not a coincidence, but a fundamental prooftext of the Text, a foundation which Jews and Christians have in common. The imperative before us is to build upon that, for these and many other good reasons. Years ago, a Christian friend gave me a copy of an article from a 1947 magazine, demonstrating how Christian support for Israel is not new. I knew that but read the article anyway. The writer narrated his sympathy watching Jews who had survived the Holocaust descending from ships in Haifa. Everything was great, until the end. The final paragraph reflected on the roots of replacement theology in “the church” by noting that God had essentially abandoned the Jews. It was ironic that my friend didn’t see the contradiction of this. Christian support for Israel does pre-date 1948, is increasing, evolving and should be embraced. Jonathan Feldstein is president of the Genesis 123 Foundation.

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Magen David Adom is Israel’s official ambulance, blood-services, and disaster-relief organization. MDA has been on the front lines in the fight against coronavirus while also contending with terrorist attacks, car accidents, and other threats to Israeli lives. But Magen David Adom is not government-funded. Its 25,000 EMTs and paramedics, most of them volunteers, rely on support from people like you for the supplies and equipment they need to perform their lifesaving work. There are many ways to support Israel, but none that has a greater impact on its people than a gift to Magen David Adom. Your support isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them. Support Magen David Adom at afmda.org/chanukah afmda.org

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

VIEWS essay

Do We Dare to Hope?

hat did it for me was the killing of Muhammad al-Durrah on the Gaza Strip in September 2000. He was a 12-year-old Palestinian boy who hid behind his father as they were caught in the crossfire between Palestinian secuHoward Lovy rity forces and Contributing Writer the IDF. The world watched as the boy cried in terror, then was struck by a bullet. I was managing editor for the Jewish Telegraphic Agency at the time. Shortly after this incident, which was the beginning of the larger Palestinian uprising that became known as the Second Intifada, I resigned my job at JTA, moved from New York City back to my old home in Metro Detroit, and quit writing about Jewish issues for the next 16 years. This was not what I had signed up for. I was among the Oslo Peace Process hopefuls. I was convinced that at JTA, I was going to help lead coverage of a new era in Israeli-Palestinian relations, a time when I could write about, and think about, what it means to be a Jew without a constant reminder of Mideast conflict. I never wanted antisemitism, or the Middle East, to define the way I write about Judaism. Today, this is unavoidable and now that I am writing again about Jewish issues, I am faced with the same frustration.

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

We can argue forever over what put that father and son in that position, and how and why the IDF was exchanging gunfire with a Palestinian security force that was supposed to have been their peace partners. I was angry at the circumstances that put that boy in harm’s way. It was just after Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian President Yasser Arafat had broken off peace talks. Or, I should say, Arafat refused a Palestinian state and chose, instead, another generation of bloodshed. It was egged on by Ariel Sharon’s visit to the Temple Mount, which unnecessarily heightened tensions, but it was failure of Palestinian leadership and vision that created the Second Intifada and placed that poor boy in the line of fire. I’m bringing this up today because I don’t want to fall into the same trap of unwarranted optimism, then sudden dejection, in light of the so-called “Abraham Accords” between Israel and some of her Arab neighbors (see story, pg. 28). What many forget is that the 1993 Oslo Accords were made possible, in part, by the coalition the United States put together against Saddam Hussein in the First Gulf War in 1991. Today, an Arab coalition against Iran can create another window of opportunity to tackle peace between Israel and the Palestinians. I have confidence that the opportunity will present itself, but I am not confident the Palestinians will avail them-

Standing guard during the Second Infitada

selves of it. In July 2000, I was still hopeful, writing that Barak was swinging for the bleachers. He felt he had a mandate, and he probably just barely did at the time. I quoted Barak as saying, “The fall of the Soviet Union and the victory over Iraq in the 1991 Persian Gulf War … gave Israel a window of opportunity to make peace with its neighbors.” By November 2000, I was back in Michigan, interviewing Arabs in Dearborn during the election. Surprisingly, they mostly went for George W. Bush. The top concern for Arab Americans in this pre911 time was the perception that President Clinton has not been a fair mediator in the peace process. Shortly thereafter, I quit Jewish journalism and helped launch a science and technology magazine in Ann Arbor. I did not return to writing about Jewish issues until Charlottesville, when I was moved to speak at an anti-Nazi vigil in Traverse City. ANGER AT LEADERSHIP Today, the Palestinians appear to be going down the same road as before. Yet, there is a detectable difference between the words of the P.A. and Hamas leadership, and the words of Palestinians themselves. There is a revolt among average Palestinians against hardline Hamas rule. Average Palestinians are actually

IDF

The Abraham Accords could meet the same dead end as Oslo.

bypassing official channels and talking to Israelis. So, this time, I don’t think there will be a “third intifada” to distract from the failure of Palestinian leadership. There is just as much anger with Hamas as there is with Israelis. I’m seeing some cracks appear that the U.S. and Israel could exploit to relaunch talks with the Palestinians. To me, it doesn’t feel like the hopeful ’90s all over again, and I don’t think I’ll ever go back to that level of optimism unless an actual permanent-status deal is signed. But I think the momentum of normalization with Arab states could be used as an opportunity for Palestinians to end their permanent refugee status ... or they can deepen their alliance with Iran, through Hamas, and lose another opportunity for peace. As for previously hostile states making peace with Israel in the Abraham Accords, well, governments change. And they can change in a heartbeat. Look at Turkey. So, long story short: History says peace can bring with it its own momentum. But so can unrest, and the horrible specter, for me, of the death of Muhammad al-Durrah, can easily emerge again. Yet, the Palestinians can be masters of their own fate if they choose. Howard Lovy is an editor and writer based in Traverse City. He is the former managing editor of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

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JEWSINTHED

Menorah lighting in prior years

Chanukah, Safely

Some Detroit traditions move forward, but others are shelved. SHARI S. COHEN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

his year, the Jewish community can celebrate Chanukah with events that promise connection and fun while staying safe during the pandemic. For the past 10 years, the lighting of a large menorah in Downtown Detroit’s Campus Martius Park has attracted many enthusiastic participants of all ages. This year, Menorah in the D, presented by The Shul, ChabaD Greater Downtown Detroit and Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, will feature its traditional torch lighting of the menorah at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10. Though Campus Martius is a

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

public plaza, organizers are encouraging people to watch this year’s Menorah in the D from home instead of in-person. Greetings from community leaders and dignitaries, as well as entertainment and an after-party, will be livestreamed. Visit menorahinthed.

The JN will be partnering with Menorah in the D to broadcast the live candlelighting from our website and social media, Dec. 10 at 5 p.m. Visit us online for more details!

ANTHONY LANZILOTE

MENORAH IN THE D

com for more information and to register for a special Menorah in the D box of Chanukah-related items. Bruce Schwartz, the Rock Ventures Detroit ambassador who has been involved with Menorah in the D since its inception, says that households are encouraged to light their Chanukah candles at the same time as the lighting Downtown. Some in-home lightings will be featured on the live video. This year, NEXTGen Detroit and its partners will kick off an eight-night online “Light Up the Night” celebration. For each night after Menorah in the D, a local rabbi will lead an online candle lighting; on the eighth night, a Community Candle Lighting will feature representatives from a range of local Jewish organizations. “NEXTGen Detroit has eight glowing nights lined up so we can all burn brighter together. Every evening, a new special guest will join us on Zoom to

lead us in lighting the menorah and bright a unique way to celebrate the holiday,” says Tomer Moked, director, NEXTGen Detroit, a program of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. This online event is planned for young adults ages 21 to 45. Information will be available on NEXTGen’s website and through social media. Latke Vodka, NEXTGen’s usual Chanukah event, will not be held this year. Another popular event, Chanukah Wonderland, presented in the past by Bais Chabad Torah Center in West Bloomfield, will not be held due to COVID-19. However, Bais Chabad and JFamily, a Jewish Community Center program, will present a “Chanukah Parade of Light and Love” on Sunday, Dec. 13, beginning at 4 p.m. Participants, some with menorahs on their cars, will drive around the Jewish Senior Life buildings on its West Bloomfield campus to entertain the senior adults who live there. “They have been hit hardest by COVID since they can’t have guests or congregate. We want to bring Chanukah joy and light to that community,” said Rabbi Shneur Silberberg, outreach director at Bais Chabad Torah Center. After circling Jewish Senior Life residences, the car parade will travel to the nearby JCC West Bloomfield parking lot for a video program presented on a large outdoor screen. A menorah will be lit, and interactive Chanukah games will be offered on screen. Chanukah treats will be delivered to the cars participating in the parade. To register for swag bags for participating cars, or to sponsor or purchase a menorah for display during the car parade, visit baischabad.com/light. This event is free. Children’s Chanukah Wonderbags are available for purchase on the website.

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CAMP GUIDE

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

‘Kids Need Camp’

Camps “cautiously optimistic” about the summer of 2021. BARBARA LEWIS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

form, including the child’s temperature, and kept the child home if there was any hint of illness. When camp buses made pickups in synagogue and shopping center parking lots, parents stayed in their cars. Siblings were the only ones allowed to share seats on the bus. Sleepovers, previously a camp highlight, were canceled. “We had to buy lots of equipment for sanitizing,” Fisher said. “Buses were sanitized every day. Whenever we used a piece of equipment we sanitized it.” Children frequently washed their hands, singing the camp song as they did to make sure they scrubbed long enough. The children’s experience made the effort worthwhile. “If you could have seen those kids in the first week,” said Fisher. “[When schools closed] they had been home for three months. They learned to play again.” Bentzion Shemtov and his wife, Simi, onsite directors

of Camp Gan Israel, worked closely with state licensing officials and the Kalkaska County health department. The camp serves more than 500 campers, ages 7-13, in two sessions, one for boys and one for girls. All were required to have a COVID test a week before camp and then to isolate at home until camp started. On the way to camp, all campers and staff were tested at a site set up by William Beaumont Hospital Troy, which promised fast results; no one tested positive. Once they got to camp, the campers and staff operated as a “bubble,” with no one from the outside coming or going. Popular out-of-camp trips, to Michigan nature spots, water parks, Cedar Point and more, were canceled. Anyone who had a fever or sniffles — inevitable in any community of hundreds of children — was tested immediately, and no one tested positive, Shemtov said. Camp Tanuga, also in

Kalkaska, tried hard to open last summer but wasn’t able to pull it off. As late as the beginning of June, the managers still hoped to run a single five-week session starting in mid-July. They were waiting for written guidelines from state and local health officials to nail down the details. Eventually time ran out. “It takes us about 30 days to get up and running. That’s without COVID precautions,” said Mark Coden. He and his co-director, Sid Friedman, waited until the afternoon of June 11, about 36 hours past their deadline, before finally deciding to cancel the season. They are hoping to avoid a repeat next summer. “We feel it’s more important than ever that parents find a safe program to send their children to,” Coden said. “Kids need a place to go to regain their childhood. Get them outdoors and screenfree!” He urged families to regcontinued on page 18 COURTESY OF CAMP WILLOWAY

ummer camp can be a lifeline for families. Children blossom in a child-centered environment that isn’t school, and parents relish the respite from everyday childcare responsibilities. So, in the summer of 2020, the closing of most camps due to the COVID-19 pandemic was devastating on many levels. Many of those described their decision to close as “heartbreaking.” At least two camps serving the Detroit-area Jewish community did open last summer: Willoway Day Camp, a private camp in Milford, and Camp Gan Israel, an overnight camp in Kalkaska affiliated with the Chabad movement. Others, forced to close last summer, are cautiously optimistic that they will be able to operate at least a scaled-down program next summer. Lorraine Fisher, who, with her husband, Arnie, has operated Willoway Day Camp since 1969, spoke for most of her colleagues when she said, “Kids need camp.” Willoway’s assistant director, Jonathon Koenigsberg, served on a committee appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to establish guidelines for opening camps, so he knew earlier than most what needed to be done. Willoway cut back from its normal enrollment of more than 250 children to about 150 per session. Pods of 10 campers, aged 5-14, and two counselors did most of their activities together. For larger gatherings, everyone masked up and stayed socially distanced. Every morning, parents completed a detailed health

COURTESY OF CAMP WILLOWAY

Benji Schostak of West Bloomfield has fun in the pool at Camp Willoway.

Jack Singer of Birmingham at Camp Willoway

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Ben Moor of Bloomfield Hills

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAMP WILLOWAY

CAMP GUIDE

Joey Fearon of Birmingham enjoys a craft project at Camp Willoway.

Alexa Schafer of Birmingham

“WE HAD TO BUY LOTS OF EQUIPMENT FOR SANITIZING.” — WILLOWAY’S LORRAINE FISHER

Cassidy Tuthill of Bloomfield Hills and Josh Lipson of West Bloomfield get in some fishing at Camp Willoway.

Zachary Dorf of West Bloomfield

continued from page 16

ister early because space will likely be limited. Fees paid for last summer can be rolled over to 2021. Several camps tried to make up for canceling their sessions last year by implementing virtual programs. Roeper Schools in Bloomfield Hills normally serves 400 children, ages 3-12, in its day camp and another 100, ages 4-14, in a theater camp. Last summer, they ran one-hour online programs offered in four timeslots every weekday. Participants could sign up for one hour or for several. About 250 children enrolled in the virtual programs, said Paula Romano, Roeper’s director of auxiliary programs, including some from out of state. It worked so well that Roeper plans to

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

do it again this summer, even as they hope to reopen the onsite day camps. OTHER JEWISH CAMPS Last summer would have been the 60th season for Camp Ramah in Canada, affiliated with the Conservative movement, which normally serves nearly 600 children ages 7-16. When the camp was forced to close by the Ontario government, they implemented a threeweek virtual program in which 150 enrolled. “We know how important camp is, and we’re doing everything we can to carefully and cautiously open next summer,” said Aviva Millstone, associate director. Camp Young Judaea Midwest in Waupaca, Wis., also ran an online program

called Virtual Explorers. “Any child could join us for two hours a day to engage in fun, interactive programming,” said Robin Anderson, director. “Our programs included cooking, escape rooms, maker space, krav maga, art, Shabbat events and much more.” The camp hopes to open next summer, and is working with state public health officials and the American Camp Association to develop plans. Habonim Dror Camp Tavor in Three Rivers, Mich., offered a four-week virtual session as well as a family camping program last summer. “We adapted our multi-day bike ride to a oneday bike ride and developed a brand new cabin rental program, providing camp families and alumni with a unique, safe and nourishing

opportunity” to enjoy the camp grounds, said Amit Weitzer, executive director. Tavor is consulting with the camps that operated in 2020, as well as with the Centers for Disease Control and the American Camp Association, to develop plans for next summer. “We know our campers and community need camp now more than ever before,” said Weitzer. Anna Singer of Birmingham, parent of Willoway campers Sam, 8, and Jack, 6, agreed. “You are true superheroes,” she said in a note to the directors. “You have given us hope and courage that our kids will come through this hurdle of life on the upswing. Camp gave our children purpose, much needed socialization and challenged them.”

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Back to Tamarack Summer camp plans for in-person 2021 sessions, with precautions.

DANNY SCHWARTZ STAFF WRITER COURTESY OF TAMARACK CAMPS FACEBOOK

amarack Camps canceled all summer 2020 programming due to COVID-19. Now, following some leadership changes, Michigan’s flagship Jewish summer camp is preparing for an in-person 2021 — pandemic or not. Lee Trepeck, the former director of Camp Maas, has taken over the role of camp CEO after the retirement of Steve Engel. Carly Weinstock, the former associate director of Camp Maas, is now in Trepeck’s former position. Soon after the 2020 season was canceled, Tamarack leadership consulted with medical experts to find a way to safely return to camp in 2021. “We’re creating a bubble at camp,” Weinstock told the JN. As usual, Tamarack will have two summer sessions lasting 24 days each. For the first two weeks of each session, the campers will be quarantined by age group in “pods.” They will remain in their pods for all programming during this time period, including swimming (the camp’s usual “general swim” won’t take place this year). “Once those two weeks are up, and we’re COVID-free, we can then come together as a big camp and do more of the all-camp programs,” Weinstock said. For the final 10 days of both sessions, having completed the quarantine period, campers will be able to intermingle freely throughout camp. Tamarack is also planning to have a reduced capacity for both campers and staff, and will ask all campers and staff

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

to enter a quarantine period and take a COVID test prior to arrival. “It’s still going to feel like camp, and we’ll still be doing all the fun, exciting programs camp has, but it’s going to be smaller groups,” Weinstock said. “And that’s how it’s going to be for the first two weeks of each session.” Tamarack Mini-Sessions, the 10-day sessions specifically catered to campers entering 2nd-6th grades, will still take place but have been moved to the beginning of each session, rather than the end, to avoid campers having to enter camp in the middle of the quarantine period. According to Trepeck, Tamarack’s goal is that, even with any change in structure, the joy of camp will still reverberate. Trepeck also says their travel trips will not be functioning next summer. “As of now, we are unable to offer applications for Agree Outpost Camp and our travel trips — Western, Alaska and Israel,” Trepeck said. “Today, the borders to Canada and Israel are closed, and travel trip experiences represent challenges in different areas and varied regulations. We’ve had meetings with families and campers — and lots of suggestions were raised, appreciated, and valued. “Of course, we monitor the situation regularly; if there are healthy and safe ways to establish an alternative experience, those options are being evaluated and pursued.” Another change from years past: Staff will stay on campgrounds even during their days off. In prior years, staff could

leave during these allotted days. The plans for summer 2021 are as fluid as the pandemic is, according to Weinstock, and plans can change. “If things change, and things may get better, then we can add more campers, or we don’t have to be in the pods for as long, or we don’t have to quarantine prior to camp,” Weinstock said. “We’re going to continue to meet with our medical committee, who are all working on the frontlines and dealing with COVID on a daily basis. If things change, we’ll make the appropriate changes, too.” Though Tamarack received some criticism for canceling camp in 2020, Trepeck maintains it was the right call to make. “For us, through a variety of factors, it didn’t feel appropriate to proceed,” Trepeck said. “It was difficult to miss camp in 2020 — to begin a summer without the bus ride ‘home’ felt off-course.” Tamarack opened 2021 registration on Nov. 5. “We’re planning with COVID in mind,” Weinstock said, adding that the camp could also explore “mixing and masking,” to allow campers from different pods (such as siblings) to interact with each other in a masked, socially distanced way. “I know this year has been so hard for everyone. Camp is such a special place to so many people; it’s my happy place. I grew up at camp, so I know how important it is to get campers and staff to camp this summer,” Weinstock said. “We are looking at every safety precaution to make sure we can have it happen.”

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CAMP GUIDE 2021 CAMP LISTINGS

CAMP TANUGA

Winter Address: 139 W. Maple Road-Suite E Birmingham, MI 48009 (248) 258-9150 camptanuga.com Summer Address: 6874 Camp Tanuga Road N.E. Kalkaska, MI 49646 (231) 258-9150 Camp Tanuga is uniquely suited to provide children with an enriching experience they’ll never forget. Friendships formed, confidence gained and the skills learned keep campers returning year after year. An electronics-free environment featuring a full waterfront, flying trapeze, horseback riding, mountain biking and overnight camping help make Tanuga the place to be. Programs available for boys and girls age 6-15. Come experience the magic.

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF METROPOLITAN DETROIT

6600 W. Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 432-5470 https://camp.jccdet.org JCC Day Camps Powered by Tamarack offers traditional and specialty camp programming for kindergartners-ninth graders. On 250 beautiful wooded acres in West Bloomfield, we provide free transportation from 40 different locations. Instructional swimming included for all ages. ACA-accredited.

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

HILLEL DAY SCHOOL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

32200 Middlebelt Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48237 248-851-3220 www.hillelday.org Join us for a fabulous summer! Camp Funtabulous is for children ages 2-5 and runs eight weeks. Weekly themes involve hands-on learning, exploration in our outdoor nature center, gardening in our greenhouse and our garden, creative play on our playground, water play, and indoor fun. Fun in-camp field trips or visitors each session. Activities foster social and emotional growth and lifelong friendships begin. Our trained staff encourages, nurtures, teaches, and supports campers every day. For more information, contact rpappas@ hillelday.org

CAMP TAMAKWA

Toronto Address: 55 Wingold Avenue Toronto, Ontario M6B 1P8 416.924.7433 https://tamakwa.com/ Michigan Address: 1760 S. Telegraph Road, #300 Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48302 248.335.6400 Camp Tamakwa is a children’s overnight summer camp in Algonquin Park located 2.5 hours north of Toronto. Founded in 1936, Tamakwa is home to over 275 boys and girls aged 7-16. Our intimate camp size allows for small camper to staff ratios where campers feel supported in every aspect of daily camp life. Tamakwa prides itself on traditional values, camp spirit, safety and skill development.

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CAMP GUIDE 2021 CAMP LISTINGS

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ROEPER SUMMER CAMPS

41190 Woodward Ave. Bloomfield, MI 48304 (248) 203-7370 www.roeper.org From lacrosse to coding to theater, Roeper Summer Programs offers a variety of enriching and rewarding camp experiences to children throughout Metro Detroit. Diversity and respect for everyone’s potential are central characteristics of the community.

TAMARACK CAMPS

6735 Telegraph Road, Suite 380 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 248-647-1100 For more information regarding our summer programs, please visit tamarackcamps.com or email weinstock@tamarackcamps. com. Tamarack Camps, Michigan’s premier Jewish summer camp, is home to 1,100 acres of woods, private lakes and nature trails. But more than that, it’s home to your next adventure.

WILLOWAY DAY CAMP INC.

P.O. Box 250933 West Bloomfield, MI 48325 (248) 932-2123 www.willowaydaycamp.com Willoway Day Camp has been offering the best summer ever for generations of campers. We were proud to safely serve many families in 2020 and are looking forward to summer 2021! Our mature staff of teachers and leaders and acres of outstanding facilities combine to create lasting memories. The fun starts the moment the campers board the Willoway bus. Whether it’s making a splash or learning to swim in our two pools or enjoying our varied athletic fields, pond and lake programs, animal farm, nature trails and fishing or drama, dance, kayaking, go-karting, archery, tennis, golf and ga ga ga — at Willoway, it’s summer fun for everyone. American Camp Association accredited.

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DECEMBER 3 • 2020

MOMENTS BIRTHS

MAZEL TOV!

OCT. 5, 2020 Megan and Matt Swain of Washington, D.C., are overjoyed to announce the birth of their first daughter, Stella Radin (Zahava Yael Aviv). Big brother Oliver was thrilled to welcome her home. Ecstatic grandparents are Elyse and Richard Jacobs of Bloomfield Hills and Lisa Swain and Fred Swirka of Peabody, Mass. Excited great-grand-bubbie is Arlene Rosen of Revere, Mass. Stella is named for Meg’s treasured Uncle Steve and Grandma Syl (family name Radin). Stella’s Hebrew name is in blessed, loving memory of Grandma Syl (Zelda), Uncle Steve (Yehuda), and Matt’s Nana Ann (Anya).

Dylan Slone Berman and Jesse Madden Berman will share the bimah as they lead the congregation in prayer on the occasion of their b’nai Dylan Berman mitzvah at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2020. They will be joined in celebration by their proud parents, Michelle and Michael Berman. Jesse Dylan and Jesse are the Berman loving grandchildren of Lynne and Leslie Schultz, Robin and Michael Fenberg, and the late Marilou and Marvin Berman. They attend Clifford Smart Middle School in Commerce Township. Among their many mitzvah projects, both Dylan and Jesse found it most meaningful to deliver presents on Christmas to Jimmy’s Kids in Detroit. This special project is a yearly tradition for their family.

APRIL 23, 2020 Katie and Ryan Vieder of Farmington Hills are thrilled to announce the birth of their son, Jack Benjamin. Sharing in their excitement are big sister Stella Rose and grandparents Ellen and Paul Fried of Farmington Hills, Debby and Al Katan of West Bloomfield and Gayla and Mark Vieder of Boca Raton, Fla. Jack is named in loving memory of his maternal great-grandfather Jacob (Jack) Seidman. His Hebrew name, Meir Binyamin, was given in memory of his paternal great-grandfather Cantor Larry Vieder. MARCH 19, 2020 Parents Samantha and Jeffrey Friedman of Birmingham are thrilled to announce the birth of their son, Oakley Samson Friedman. Proud big brother is Crosby Friedman. Loving grandparents are Karen Kelman and Paul Chaben of West Bloomfield and Howard Friedman of Bloomfield Hills. He is also the grandson of the late Stephanie Friedman. Oakley is named in loving memory of his grandmother.

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

Baila Rose Jasgur and Simone Elise Jasgur, daughters of Jennifer Jasgur and Steve Jasgur, will share the bimah as Baila Jasgur they celebrate their b’not mitzvah at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Friday, Dec. 4, 2020. They are the loving grandchildren of Harriet and the late Robert Simone Jasgur, Robert Rozycki Jasgur and Joann Rozycki. Baila and Simone attend West Hills Middle School in Bloomfield Hills. Among their many mitzvah projects, each found creating no-sew pillows and blankets for the Detroit Dog Rescue to be the most meaningful.

Olivia Noa Randel, surrounded virtually by family and friends from across the country, will be called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. Olivia Noa Randel 5, 2020, at Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills. She is the loving daughter of Danielle and Michael Randel and adoring sister of Ali and Lindsay. Sharing her simchah will be ecstatic grandparents Moreen and Marshall Lett. Olivia is also the grandchild of the late Carolyn and Norman Randel and great-granddaughter of the late Janette and Jesse Antman. Olivia is a student at West Hills Middle School in Bloomfield Hills. Over the past year, she created Sealed With Olivia’s Kiss (SWOK) and has been collecting makeup and hair care products to help women feel pretty on the inside and out. The goods are donated to local shelters that help women get back on their feet. Olivia’s project directly benefits women struggling during the COVID19 global pandemic. Ella Halle Rosender and Molly Danielle Rosender, daughters of Jackie and Steve Rosender, will chant from the Torah as they celebrate their b’not Ella mitzvah at Temple Israel Rosender in West Bloomfield on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2020. They are the loving grandchildren of Janet and Seymour Wander, and Karen and the late Molly William Rosender. Rosender Ella and Molly are students at Clifford Smart Middle School in Commerce Township. As part of their most meaningful mitzvah experience, they helped make Rosh Hashanah and Thanksgiving bags for the residents at Jewish Senior Life’s Norma Jean and Edward Meer Apartments.

SPIRIT

TORAH PORTION

Pursuing Climate Justice

story according to comhen we have mentaries that aren’t as conversations often referenced to rethink about climate our relationship to climate change, it often feels like justice work? doom and gloom. Scary 1. Jacob wrestled himfacts, worst-case scenarios Rabbi Nate self: According to Pirkei and ticking clocks. Even Degroot DeRabbi Eliezer (37), Jacob our language: “fighting” wrestled himself that night: climate change places us in Parshat an adversarial relationship. Vayishlach: “And [the angel] called [Jacob’s] name ‘Israel’ like But it doesn’t need to be Genesis this way. 32:4-36:43; his own name, for his own Obediah name was called ‘Israel.’” In this week’s portion, 1:1-21. 2. Jacob was the one to Jacob wrestles an adverengage: Based on notesary. We don’t get many worthy grammar, biblical scholar details of the match, but comAviva Zornberg argues that Jacob mentators typically see this man initially approached the angel: as a hostile angel who attacked “Perhaps, in some enigmatic Jacob unprompted. We know the sense, Jacob is the aggressor.” struggle lasted until dawn when (The Beginning of Desire, 234). the man wrenched Jacob’s hip. But what happens if we reread 3. There was embrace: There seems to be an element of four different elements of this

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embrace to this wrestling (Rashi and Ramban). Zornberg: “This is clearly a passionate experience, involving the closest confrontation (literally face-to-face) of the whole body” (ibid). 4. A blessing: Jacob refused to let the “angel” go without receiving a blessing. Regardless of the tenor of the encounter, Jacob demanded that its conclusion be blessing. I suggest we consider our approach to climate justice in this light: 1. Let us recognize that we are really wrestling with ourselves. Individually, it is upon us to make choices that we are proud of and that contribute to a healthier, more sustainable and more equitable world for all. 2. It’s up to us to engage first, to

read that article, recycle that container, call that representative. 3. Climate work must be rooted in love. We embrace nature because we’ve been nourished by nature’s embrace. Let that drive our work, even as we struggle. 4. We won’t stop until we are blessed. Despite whatever hardships and challenges, our North Star is abundant blessing for us and all of God’s creatures. Jacob is transformed by his encounter and given a new name, “Yisrael,” the one who wrestles with God, namesake of our people. In our pursuit of climate justice, may we be inspired by Yisrael, wrestling with the Divine for personal growth, taking initiative, centering embrace and stopping nothing short of blessing. In so doing, may we honor the Divine creation of which we are all part. Rabbi Nate Degroot is the Hazon Detroit associate director and spiritual and program director.

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DECEMBER 3 • 2020

ERETZ ON THE COVER

What’s Next T for Israel after the Abraham Accords? Arab nations are lining up to normalize relations with Israel. Here’s what awaits the Jewish state down the road.

DANA D. REGEV CONTRIBUTING WRITER

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

his fall, the Abraham Accords broke years of Arab consensus that there should be no relations with Israel until it makes peace with the Palestinians. Brokered by outgoing President Donald Trump and signed at the White House, the Accords have included three Arab nations to date. Following the lead of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Sudan have also agreed to formally normalize ties with the Jewish state. More agreements seem likely to follow. American Jews have celebrated the Accords as a sign of thawing tensions and a potential roadmap toward peace. And delegates from the Arab world have made overtures to the American Jewish community. During the recent “virtual dinner” for the

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES AND JTA COURTESY OF NANCY KHEDOURI

White House Abraham Accords Signing Ceremony with UAE’s Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Bahrain Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and President Donald Trump.

Jewish Bahraini politician Nancy Khedouri, second from left, and other Bahraini officials meet with foreign representatives, including U.S. Ambassador Justin Siberell, far left.

Southfield-based Yeshiva Beth Yehudah day school, Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE’s ambassador to the U.S., said that, soon, “students in your school are going to be able to go talk to Israelis and Emiratis either in Israel or the UAE.” The Accords were hailed as “glorious” by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but dubbed “a stab in the back” by various Palestinian officials. The complexities of the agreements, and the politics behind them, have left Jews the world over with many questions. Here, we try to answer some of them. IN ONE WORD: IRAN For many Arab nations, aligning themselves with Israel unifies them around a common enemy: Iran. Iran’s rising influence in the Middle East didn’t happen in a void. Emirati Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed fears Iran, which he sees as a clear and immediate threat to the UAE in particular — and to Sunni Islam in general. He’s not alone. Bahrain and Saudi Arabia — both Sunni Muslim-led states — are bitter rivals of Shiitemajority Iran. More than 60% of Bahrainis are Shiites, who are at best seen as a subversive population and at worst an Iranian fifth column. When former President Barack Obama started talking about a new, democratic and liberal Middle East in light of the Arab Spring uprisings, relations between the Gulf states and the U.S. reached an unprecedented low. Obama supported protesters against former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, a longtime ally of the U.S., thus sending a clear message to Gulf leaders that if there were any uprisings erupting in their territories, American support for them would no longer be a given. Eventually, the biggest blow to the Gulf came in the form of the nuclear deal with Iran, signed despite harsh criticism from the Gulf states and Israel alike — warming the not-so-secret alliance

between the latter sides even further. Paradoxically then, by working toward a nuclear deal with Iran, Obama’s policy — praised by many but deemed destructive by Israel and the Gulf states — led to the most dramatic progress in IsraeliGulf relations, including with powerhouse Saudi Arabia. “This is because Saudi Arabia, like other Gulf states, has understood very well that the only country with the experience, intentions and capabilities to act against Iran was Israel, not the U.S.,” says Dr. Michal Yaari, an Israeli expert on Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States at Tel Aviv University. It was no surprise then, that Israel was no longer the only regional player fearing Iran’s increasing might, with Gulf states — including the Saudis — gradually neglecting the ideological goal of Arab solidarity with the Palestinians for a more practical path against a common enemy. SAUDI INTERESTS The specter of Iran had tremendous importance to the Abraham Accords. But there were also other, no less unsettling powers at play. The Middle East has shifted. “Iran has significantly increased its threats on Saudi Arabia’s security, mainly through its military support for the Houthis in Yemen,” according to Yaari. “We want to thank [the Saudis] for the assistance they’ve had in the success of the Abraham Accords so far,” said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, referring partially to Riyadh’s announcement that its skies would be open to any country’s civilian plane flying to or from the UAE. “We hope Saudi Arabia will consider normalizing its relationships [with Israel] as well,” Pompeo added. Since the murder of Washington Post columnist and Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Crown continued on page 30 DECEMBER 3 • 2020

ERETZ COURTESY OF U.S. EMBASSY TO ISRAEL

ON THE COVER

A delegation from the UAE arrived in Israel on October 20, 2020, on a historic visit, to participate in the signing ceremony of four agreements as part of the Abraham Accords along with others such as Netanyahu and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. continued from page 29

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Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has become persona non grata among Americans — who were already critical of Saudi Arabia due to its notorious human rights record. Congress imposed a ban on arms sales to the kingdom in light of Khashoggi’s assassination — a decision later circumvented by Trump. POLITICAL CONCERNS Additionally, both bin Zayed and Netanyahu were trying to hand Trump one final achievement ahead of what proved to be one of America’s most divisive elections in recent history. For Trump’s Jewish supporters, there weren’t many better ways to do so than a historic peace deal between the Jewish state and a thriving Arab nation — a scenario deemed practically impossible merely a few decades ago. Israel currently maintains a “cold peace” with Egypt and Jordan, without significant tourism or business ties. A Biden presidency, on the other hand, was nothing Israel or Saudi Arabia were particularly enthusiastic about, despite Netanyahu having praised the president-elect as “a great friend of Israel” with whom he has had “a long and warm personal relationship.” This stems partially from

fears that Biden may seek to revive the Iran nuclear deal, a prospect Israel’s former envoy to Washington Michael Oren said had a “very high” likelihood — much to Israel and Saudi Arabia’s dismay. PALESTINIANS IGNORED The Accords evidently reflect a mobilizing Middle East, in which shared concerns over Iran or Turkey, combined with new business opportunities, have enabled U.S. allies to close ranks on their mutual rivals. These issues have overshadowed what used to be the region’s foremost concern: Palestinians. Under Netanyahu, Israel has moved further and further away from any realistic peace agreement, as West Bank settlements continue largely unabated and actions like moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem have exacerbated tensions among Palestinian leadership. Arab nations have signaled they, too, believe negotiations with Palestinians have hit something of a dead end, and that there is more to gain by casting them aside. Saudi leadership realized that it was standing at a critical crossroads. If it continued to support the Palestinians and as a result didn’t advance its own relations continued on page 32

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

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ERETZ ON THE COVER

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with Israel, it would jeopardize its security interests and leave itself exposed to the Iranian threat. The normalization deals deliver a message all-too-familiar to Palestinians: You’re on your own. At present, it doesn’t seem like Israeli-Palestinian negotiations will resume, Yaari predicts, “due to both Israeli and Palestinian leadership.” It is not inconceivable, however, that “when Abu Mazen [Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas] is replaced, and perhaps Netanyahu as well, there will be a breakthrough.” SUDAN MOMENTUM Trump announced in late October that Sudan would start normalizing ties with Israel after pledging that the African country would be removed from the terror list, as it agreed to put $335 million in an escrow account for compensating American victims of terror attacks. The importance of the IsraelSudan normalization stems, in part, from the expansion from the Middle East outward to Africa, as well as the unique momentum, proving that the UAE wasn’t an isolated case, but a cornerstone potentially marking the beginning of a trend. FIGHTER JETS? Predictably, the agreement was accepted with mixed emotions in the Arab world. But even in Israel and the U.S. the festive atmosphere was overshadowed by growing doubts — primarily following the White House notification to Congress late October that it intends to sell 50 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets to the UAE, thus jeopardizing Israel’s military edge. “The idea that we’re giving the

exact same fighter jet to an Arab neighbor just makes me nervous,” said Michigan Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin, who is Jewish and previously worked at the Pentagon. “I support normalization, but not at the expense of Israeli’s strategic national security.” But Israeli security sources later confirmed to local media that they were attempting to advance the purchase of F-22 Raptor jets — currently the world’s most advanced fighter plane — from the U.S., so that the Israeli Air Force would preserve its superiority in the region despite the deal. WHAT’S NEXT? Israeli Intelligence Minister Eli Cohen said implementing further normalization deals could depend on the next U.S. president displaying continued “resolve” against Iran, naming Qatar, Morocco and Niger as some of the potential next countries “on the agenda.” Behind closed doors, some Israeli security officials are allowing themselves to ponder the possibility of normalizing relations with other Arab countries, like Oman, or — perhaps, one day — even Saudi Arabia. Critics point out that cozying up to Saudi Arabia means getting in bed with one of the worst human rights abusers in the world. However, for such unprecedented normalization deal to take place, Israeli officials agree that a few crowns still need to change heads. For now, the near future for Israeli nationals looks more like an all-inclusive holiday in Dubai. Dana Regev is an Israeli-born journalist who reports on global affairs for Deutsche Welle in Germany and is a contributor to the Jewish News.

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ARTS&LIFE

SHAY FRANKO

MUSIC

Israeli singer Shiri Maimon performs as Roxie Hart in a production of the Broadway musical Chicago.

The ‘Beyoncé of Israel’

Shiri Maimon to guest at Temple Israel’s Laker Concert. SUZANNE CHESSLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

hiri Maimon, applauded as both the “Beyoncé of Israel” and a Broadway star, is this year’s guest entertainer appearing in the Laker Concert. A digital program because of the worldwide pandemic, the concert will feature her live vocals joined by a keyboard accompanist. It runs 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, and is hosted by Temple Israel. “Performing for Jewish communities around the world is always an honor and a pleasure,” said Maimon, who is expected to combine pop and blues Israeli songs with

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

numbers by Jewish composer John Kander and Jewish lyricist Fred Ebb for the musical Chicago, the show that brought her to New York to play lead character Roxie Hart. “I am always happy to bring the Israeli flavor abroad and see how the audience unites when I sing both songs from my repertoire as well as famous and known classic Israeli songs. “Normally, I get to meet the people, talk and hear their stories. Unfortunately, this time it will be contactless, and yet I am sure the warm welcoming I always get from the Jewish

communities will be felt. I will love to visit Detroit so, hopefully, we’ll have the chance to sing together face-to-face very, very soon.” Temple Israel Cantor Michael Smolash is at the center of arranging this annual event, which started in 1993 and is a Laker family gift to the community in honor of the late Sarah and Harry Laker. “Shiri Maimon is probably the most exciting act ever brought in for the Laker Concert,” Cantor Smolash said. “Strangely, the reason we could was probably because of COVID. We wanted to see what advantage virtual programming might give because of not dealing with flights and schedules in the normal way. “We decided not to limit our guest search even to North America, and we called on one of the biggest stars in Israel to see if that person would appear.” Maimon, who has recorded

six acclaimed albums and was a judge on the Israeli version of The Voice, will be making her Michigan debut. “A concert from Israel brings something special,” said the cantor, who reminds viewers that the varied live performances, scheduled close to Passover, had to be canceled this year because of the pandemic. “Shiri Maimon has a great Broadway voice, but when she does pop, she has a great R&B sound. She’s a really versatile singer. We always have our eyes out for Israeli entertainers who are [traveling in the United States].” Maimon, who grew up near Haifa, launched her career when she was 10 by appearing in a children’s musical. Drafted into military service in 2000, she became a vocalist in the Air Force Band. In 2003, Maimon auditioned for Israel’s version of American Idol and attained second place, gained public popularity and was signed by

ARTS&LIFE

Helicon Records, a licensee of Universal and EMI Records. While she was a presenter on a daily TV show, her second single, “Time to Say Goodbye,” was chosen to represent Israel in the 2005 Eurovision Song Contest. Her namesake first album launched her first concert tour. Credits since then include roles in a musical version of the movie HaLehaka (The Band) and in the Habima National Theatre production of Evita. Martin Laker remains enthusiastic about the concerts, especially because they celebrate his late father’s love for music, both spiritual and secular. He watched Maimon for the first time on the web after Cantor Smolash recommended shining the spotlight on her. “She was magnificent with a wonderful voice, and we’re lucky she was available,” said Laker, whose one criterion for choosing performers is imagining his father tapping his toes to the beat and softly singing along. “There’s no doubt in my mind that people will love seeing her, particularly during this time, when joy and entertainment are so needed.” While the Lakers look forward to a return of in-person performers for future concerts, they welcome viewers outside of Michigan tuning in digitally. One viewer will be Aviv Ezra, Israel’s consul general to the Midwest. “Let me congratulate Temple Israel on presenting one of the Jewish state’s brightest stars,” he said. “I am very proud of any chance to share the sublime arts and culture scene in Israel and so excited for Michiganders and Israelis to connect through Shiri’s uplifting music and captivating presence. Enjoy this musical treasure.”

Kaley Cuoco with Zosia Mamet

NATE BLOOM COLUMNIST BAD WAKE-UP, AND KANE’S CREDIT

SHAY FRANKO

DETAILS

To preview Shiri Maimon’s talents and learn how to watch her show at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 13, go to temple-israel.org.

HBO MAX

CELEBRITY JEWS

The Flight Attendant, an 8-episode HBO Max series, began streaming on Nov. 26 (2 episodes). Kaley Cuoco (Big Bang Theory) stars as Cassie, a flight attendant who wakes up in the “wrong” hotel with the body of a dead man next to her — she has no idea how this all happened. Zosia Mamet, 32 (Girls), has a big role as Annie, an attorney who is Cassie’s best friend. Bebe Neuwirth, 61 (Lilith on Cheers), has a large recurring role as Diana, a highly respected senior partner in the law firm where Annie works. She is a mentor to Annie. A bio-pic, Mank, about famous screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz (1897-1953), begins streaming on Netflix on Dec. 5. It focuses on the period during which “Herman M.” co-wrote the script for the great film Citizen Kane with Orson Welles. They were the co-winners of the 1941 Oscar for best screenplay for Kane. Mank, which opened in limited theatrical release, has got some great reviews and many mixed ones. Many critics say that the script (by the late Jack Fincher, the father of Mank director David Fincher) slavishly followed the opinion of the late film critic Pauline Kael. In a 1971 book, she said that Herman M. wrote almost

all of Kane. Since then, film scholars have shown that Welles wrote a lot of Kane before and after Herman M.’s contribution. What seems clear is both men always had major problems with finishing a project and, by some miracle, on Kane they compensated for each other and made a great movie. I should note that a biopic about Herman M. can’t be dull. He was extremely funny; he improved hundreds of films, usually without screen credit — including a big part of The Wizard of Oz; and he just couldn’t stop drinking until it killed him. All the well-known people named Mankiewicz (including movie writers/directors Joseph and Tom; TV hosts Josh and Ben; and former National Public Radio president Frank), were/are closely related to Herman. By the way, the next time you see a lot of Jews playing nonJews, think of this film: 13 important characters — no Jewish actors play any of them — although six were “all” Jewish in real life and two more had Jewish fathers. (The former group includes Herman M., his wife, Sara; director Joseph Mankiewicz, Herman’s brother; film execs Irving Thalberg and Louis B. Mayer, and producer David O. Selznick. Producer/ actor John Houseman had a Jewish father, as did writer Charles Lederer.) DECEMBER 3 • 2020

ON THE GO

THE ARK

PRESCHOOL LEARNING ONGOING Join Temple Shir Shalom’s Learning Center Preschool’s Virtual Learning Experience for 2 1/2-5 year-olds. Adventures in-a-bag with Ms. Janet Kelly, Tuesdays 2-2:30 pm. Scavenger hunts, collages, stories and food, painting and more. If it is during naptime, we’ll record, so you can do the activity at any time. Register now for four-week sessions; optin at any time. Register: shirshalom.org/adventures. There is no charge for this program.

VOCALS & BLUEGRASS 8 PM, DEC. 3 The Ark in Ann Arbor will present Molly Tuttle online “Live from the Basement.” Tickets: $15-$45. Visit boxoffice.mandolin.com/ pages/molly-tuttle-buti-d-rather-stream-withyou?rfsn=4859350.6a4be7. (Also on Dec. 17) THREE CONCERTS 9 PM, DEC. 3,10,17 The Ark in Ann Arbor will host Mountain Man “Live from the Garden.” Tickets: $12 for individual; 3-show pass $30. Noon.chorus.com/ the-ark-mountain-man.

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

THE ARK

PEOPLE | PLACES | EVENTS

to audiences around the world. Registration is free on AFIPO’s website; donations will offset critical Philharmonic revenue losses due to forced pandemic closures.

FAMILY ROOM SERIES 8 PM, DEC. 5 The Ark in Ann Arbor will host a free event, Chris Buhalis live from the Ark stage. Info: visit the Ark’s Facebook page. BAKE SALE 1-5 PM, DEC 13 The Temple Beth El Sisterhood will host a cookie walk and bake sale by Corner Shower and Laundry. Purchase homemade Chanukah cookies online, cornershowerandlaundry. com/cookie-walk. Cost: onehalf dozen by variety $5/$6. Place orders through Dec. 6. Pickup of cookies will be curbside at Beth El. Info: Sue Goldsmith, 248-214-3611, mrssurplus@sbcglobal.net. MUSIC FROM ISRAEL DEC. 6 American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and the Israel Philharmonic Foundation will premiere the “Israel Philharmonic Pre-Hanukkah Global Celebration,” a multi-disciplinary program of instrumental performances, behind-the-scenes interviews and powerful messages of hope. The event will stream internationally, free of charge, to bring music and holiday light from Israel’s world-class Philharmonic

A JEWISH VIEW OF DIA 2 PM, DEC. 8 There is a work of art at the Detroit Institute of Arts called Holocaust? There are local Jewish connections to Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals. The Jewish Historical Society of Michigan has arranged for Barbara Madgy Cohn’s Zoom presentation that will highlight the history, works of art, artists and World War II provenance with a Jewish connection. Cost: free for JHSM members, $18 for non-members. Register by 9 pm on Monday, Dec. 7: info@michjewishhistory. org. Instructions for joining the Zoom call will be sent the day before. TALKING IT OUT 7 PM, DEC. 8 Today, too many people feel they cannot talk, disagree, even argue and keep the dialogue going. Join the Jewish Community Relations Council/AJC and journalists Nolan Finley and Stephen Henderson, creators of the Civility Project, for an interactive workshop to place people before the moment of disagreement in a discussion of how we come to our beliefs and discuss them respectfully. Register at: bit.ly/34wLx7f . INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS 7 PM, DEC. 14 Join NEXTGen Detroit Interfaith Couples and Rabbi Megan Brudney for a fun and

festive conversation about celebrating two sets of traditions, communicating with family and working to make sure the season merry and bright for everyone. Chat, do a little holiday cookie decorating and some latke sampling. Cost: $8 per couple. Mimi Marcus, 248-6424260, mmarcus@jfmd.org. This online event is intended for young adults 21-45 who are in an interfaith marriage or relationship. RSVP before Dec. 10. Cookie and latke packages will be delivered to you the day of the event. If you live outside a 20-mile radius of the Federation Building in Bloomfield Twp., email Mimi to discuss a pickup option. When registering, include an address for delivery and a cell phone number so that we can text you once your package has been delivered. SUICIDE PREVENTION JAN. 21-23, 2021 Kevin’s Song, a nonprofit organization dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention, announced that registration is now open for its fifth annual virtual Conference on Suicide: Equity and Equality in Suicide Prevention. Cost for the 3-day event is $150 for early registrants before Jan. 1.; afterward, $175. The Thursday School Summit program alone is $75 early and $100 after Jan. 1. The Saturday morning Survivor program is $25. Student rates are available. Information: kevinssong.org. Compiled by Sy Manello/Editorial Assistant. Send items at least 14 days in advance to calendar@thejewishnews. com.

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DR. JERRY ARONOFF, 79, of Walled Lake, died Nov. 20, 2020. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Alicia Karen Aronoff; daughters and sons-in-law, Mardi and Darin Edelheit, Randi and Joel Freeman, Cari and Craig Stoller, and Dani and Don Klacking; son and daughter-in-law, Craig and Lauren Aronoff; grandchildren, Luke, Justin and Reed Edelheit, Rikki and Jessi Aronoff, Rayna and Peri Freeman, Simon and Maggie Stoller, and Shea and Kinsley Klacking; brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Joanne Aronoff, Mervin and Sheila Aronoff; brother-inlaw and sister-in-law, Allan and Shelley Kalmus; many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and lifelong friends. Contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. ARTHUR AUGUST, 85, of El Paso, Texas, died Nov. 2, 2020. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Gloria August; son, Dr. Brian August; daughter, Dr. Kathy (Mzark) Verbrigge; grandchildren, Ashley (Chris Walden), Seam August and Danielle Ray; brother-in-law, Gerald Weinberg; many nieces and nephews. He was the loving brother of the late Marion Weinberg. Interment in El Paso. LEO BEALS, 99, of Lathrup Village and West Bloomfield, passed away at home on Nov. 17, 2020. On Oct. 21, 1921, Leo was born as Lipa Yakov Bialostocki, in Mlawa, Poland. He was the second of four sons born to Etta and Matis Bialostocki. Before the war, Leo attended a Mizrahi school, where he learned traditional Jewish subjects, general subjects and modern Hebrew. He lost the majority of his

family during the Holocaust. Leo was liberated on May 6, 1945, by the U.S. Army from the Ebensee concentration camp in Austria. After reuniting with his one surviving brother, he immigrated to the United States in December 1949. Leo married his Americanborn wife, Arlene Spear, in May 1953. He founded Imperial Draperies, a custom window treatment business in Metropolitan Detroit. He was a devoted Jew, an excellent Hebrew speaker, a lover of history and an avid news reader. Mr. Beals is survived by his children, Marc and Susan Beals, Marcia and Charles Seigerman; grandchildren, Aaron and Alana Beals, Jodi Beals, Marnie and Abraham Motola, Deborah Anstandig, Jared and Sarit Anstandig, Evan Seigerman, Marc and Cydney Seigerman; great-grandchildren Kyra, Noah, Ayla, Benjamin Beals, and Batya Anstandig. He was the beloved husband of the late Arlene Beals; cherished brother of the late Joseph, Szemaja and Ascher. Contributions may be made to the Hillel Day School, Holocaust Memorial Center, Yad Ezra, Yeshivah Beth Yehuda or a charity of your choice. A graveside service was held at Beth Abraham Cemetery in Ferndale. Arrangements by Hebrew Memorial Chapel. MICHAEL BELTZMAN, 79, of West Bloomfield, died Nov. 24, 2020. He was a wonderful husband and father. Mr. Beltzman is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Beltzman; son, Jonathan Beltzman (companion, Denise Detrick); brother, David Beltzman; sister-in-law, Linda Beltzman; many loving cous-

ins, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. He was the brother of the late Stanley Beltzman. Contributions may be made to a charity that benefits people with cognitive disabilities. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. MARTIN W. HOLLANDER, 90, of West Bloomfield, died Nov. 22, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Terry Ellison Hollander; daughter and son-in-law, Marla and Steve Polott; son, Harvey Hollander; grandchildren, Jocelyn and Victor Sutter, Evan Polott, Matthew Hollander and his fiancee, Kayla Kalinski, David Hollander and his fiancee, Angela Higgins, Julia Hollander and her fiance, Jared Hoffman; great-granddaughter, Martie Jean Sutter; sister, Taube Bregman; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Sandi and Steve Matz; nephews and nieces, Jared and Semonna Matz, Daniel Matz and his fiancee, Carly Kuhn, Rachel Matz, Seth and Jenny Bregman, Frank and Jill Silverman, and Harold Silverman; great-nephews, Isaac and Benjamin Matz. Mr. Hollander was the beloved husband of the late Jean Hollander. Interment was at Adat Shalom Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to Temple Shir Shalom, 3999 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48323, shirshalom.org; Jewish Community Center Film Festival, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322, onlinepayment. jccdet.org/JCC/Fundraising/ Give_Now_Guest.aspx?ltemId=GNRL_EXE_KAHN; or National Council of Jewish Women, Back to School Store,

26400 Lahser Road, Suite 306, Southfield, MI 48033, ncjwmi.org. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. HOWARD LESHMAN, 73, of Boca Raton, Fla., and West Bloomfield, died Nov. 24, 2020. He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Barbara Leshman; son and daughter-inScott and Nicole Leshman; daughter and son-in-law, Jackie and Neil Rosenzweig; grandchildren, Jolie Rosenzweig and Chase Rosenzweig; brother and sister-in-law Henry and Faye Leshman; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Sharon and Andy Collins, Sandy Leshman; many loving nieces, nephews, family members and a world of friends. Mr. Leshman was the son of the late Minnie and the late Meyer Leshman; son-in-law of the late Charlotte and the late Bernard Beigel; devoted brother of the late Martin Leshman and the late Arnold Leshman. Interment took place at Clover Hill Park Cemetery in Birmingham. Contributions may be made to Temple Israel or to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. DOLORES “DORIE” MILLER, 91, of Bloomfield Hills, died Nov. 22, 2020. She was a lifelong learner, a classically trained chef, a world traveler and one of the most stylish fun-loving people around. There was no one quite like Dorie. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, James Miller and Elyse Sutherland; daughter and son-in-law, Amy Miller Weinstein and Daniel

Bates; grandchildren, Matthew and Jessie Stein, Andrew Stein and Beth Pacifico, Emily Weinstein, Benjamin Weinstein, Nathan Miller, Alison and Aaron Goldstein, and David and Lindsay Miller; great-grandchildren, Mia, Ella, Jake, Hallie, Damon, Caleb, Jordyn, Leah, Jacob and Eleanor; sister-in-law, Ava Norman, son-in-law, Milton Mutchnick; many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Mrs. Miller was the beloved wife of the late Bruce H. Miller; the cherished mother of the late Janet Mutchnik; the dear mother-in-law of the late Arleen Miller; the loving sister of the late David Norman; the devoted daughter of the late Jeannette Gomberg Norman and the late Manuel Norman. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science, The Miller Fund, P.O. Box 250243, West Bloomfield, MI 48325, weizmann-usa.org; City Year Detroit, 2937 E. Grand Blvd., 4th Floor, Detroit, MI 48202, cityyear.org/detroit/ support-us; or Jewish Hospice & Chaplaincy Network, 6555 W. Maple, West Bloomfield, MI 48322, jewishhospice.org. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. ADELL OZROVITZ, 89, of West Bloomfield, died Nov. 19, 2020. She is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, Herman Ozrovitz; daughters and son-in-law, Marsha and Hershel Cohen, Janice Kay; son and daughter-in-law, Bruce and Sharon Ozrovitz; grandchildren, Lesli Tishkowski, Bryan (Jill) Cohen, Adam (Amy) Kay, continued on page 41 DECEMBER 3 • 2020

SOUL

OF BLESSED MEMORY

An Independent ‘Voice of Justice’ STACY GITTLEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

eading with a streak of independence and justice for all people, former Michigan Supreme Court Justice Charles L. Levin died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Nov. 19, 2020, in his Detroit home at age 94. At a private graveside funeral on Nov. 20, Rabbi Joseph Krakoff said that Justice Levin was blessed with “the crown of a good name.” “Justice Levin embodied kindness and gentleness along with profound wisdom,” Krakoff said. “He had unwavering integrity as both a scholar and a Charles L. Levin teacher. Above all, his life’s importance was his family. He reprioritized his life for them, whoever needed him most at any given time.” Born on April 28, 1926, in the DexterDavison neighborhood of Detroit to Rhoda and Theodore Levin, Justice Levin’s life was one shaped by a family dynasty steeped in law, politics and public service. His cousins Sander Levin and Carl Levin both represented Michigan in Congress, as does his cousin Andy. His father was chief judge of the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan for whom the Theodore Levin United States Courthouse in Downtown Detroit is named. As a Michigan Supreme Court member, Justice Levin’s opinions have been widely published and taught in law schools throughout the United States. According to the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Justice Levin ruled several times on the environment,

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

sometimes deciding in favor of strict regulations to protect Michigan’s waterways and Great Lakes from agricultural and phosphorus runoffs and overfishing, but at other times in favor of loosening local zoning laws for mineral extraction. In a statement, U.S. Rep. Andy Levin, the son of Sander, wrote: “Chuck was a lawyer’s lawyer and a true independent. After serving six years on the Michigan Court of Appeals, he formed his own party to run for the Michigan Supreme Court, and he was reelected as an independent three more times. “You could often predict that Chuck would be the deciding vote on a case — but not which way he would come down. When he wrote a decision, whether for the majority, in concurrence or dissent, his opinions were scholarly and often read like legal treatises. His writing was carefully organized, well considered, deferential to legal precedent and sympathetic to the rights of individuals.” ‘HIS OWN PERSON’ Former U.S. Rep. Sander Levin fondly recalled his cousin “Chuck” as an independent, strong justice who “was the voice of justice for everyone.” “Chuck had a deep feeling about equal justice for everybody,” said Sander Levin in a telephone interview. “The hallmark of his life is that he had a strong streak of independence. His belief in justice guided his judicial life. He was his own person, in all aspects, and I think that is why he was so well respected.”

Justice Levin received his B.A. from the University of Michigan in 1946 and his LL.B. degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1947 when he was admitted to the Michigan bar. Levin joined the New York bar in June 1949, the District of Columbia bar in October 1954, and the bar of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1953. He served as a Michigan Court of Appeals judge from 1966-1973 and as a Michigan Supreme Court associate justice from 1973-1996. Outside of his influential law career, Justice Levin cherished his family ties and his Jewish roots in Detroit. In a 2002 interview for the G. Robert Vincent Voice Library at Michigan State University, Justice Levin reflected on growing up in a Jewish neighborhood surrounded by Jewish friends and an extended immigrant family where he felt shielded from the antisemitism of his time. Charles L. Levin is survived by his former wife and best friend, Judge Helene White; his children, Amy (Matt) Levin Ragen, Fredrick Stuart (Marsha) Levin, Benjamin Joseph White Levin and Francesca Rhoda White Levin; and his grandchildren, Jacob Eliot Ragen, Joshua Brooks Ragen and Emily Rose Levin; and siblings Mimi (Charles) Levin Lieber, Daniel (Fay Hartog) Levin, and Joseph (Diana McBroom) Levin. He was previously married to the late Dr. Patricia Oppenheim Levin Rice. His oldest son, Arthur David Levin, passed away in 2009. He is also survived by a loving extended family and many grateful law clerks. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Moran-Olsson Exoneree Support Charitable Trust, 1213 Dhu Varren Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Arrangements were by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

continued from page 39

Rachel (Dan) Keelan, Lauren (Jeff) Weiner, Alyssa Ozrovitz and Justin Ozrovitz; great-grandchildren, Eden, Jocelyn, Jacob, Zachary, Benjamin, Charlie, Elijah and Eliana; many other loving family members and friends. Mrs. Ozrovitz was the sister of the late Sidney Abromovich, the late Bob Abromovich and the late Florence Liss. Interment took place at Machpelah Cemetery in Ferndale. Contributions may be made to Na’amat USA or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. SHIRLEY ROBBINS, 109, of Miami, Fla., died Nov. 19, 2020. She is survived by her nieces and nephews, Gary and Candy Frenkel, Stuart and Judy Frenkel, Michael and Carol Frenkel, Barry and Nancy Shevlin; great-nieces and great-nephews, Marty Frenkel, Joanna Acosta, Jennifer Frenkel, Dayna Frenkel, Emily Bauer, David Frenkel, Allison Frenkel, Leanne Frenkel, Robert Schnieder, Michael Schnieder, Joshua Shevlin, Jake Shevlin, Seth Shevlin, Max Shevlin, Jessica Shevlin; many loving greatgreat-nieces and greatgreat-nephews; devoted caregivers, Carry, Latavia and Sharon. Mrs. Robbins was the beloved wife of the late Louis Robbins; the companion of the late Jack Shevlin; sister of the late

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SOUL

OF BLESSED MEMORY continued from page 41

Rose Teman and the late Lillian Frenkel; aunt of the late Kenneth Frenkel, Betty Schnieder, Arnold Shevlin, Jerome Idleson. Interment took place at Nusach Hari Cemetery in Ferndale. Contributions may be made to a charity of one choice. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. LOIS GRAFF RUBIN, 77, of Farmington Hills died, Nov. 21, 2020. Lois grew up in Detroit. She loved her summers at camp in Toronto and New York as well as at Camp Tamarack in Michigan. She never forgot traveling to Washington, D.C., with her New York camp friends to hear Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. deliver his “I Have a Dream” speech. Lois graduated from Mumford High School in 1960 and attended Wayne State University, where she received both her bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in guidance and counseling. Initially an elementary school teacher, she took time off to raise her daughters, returning to the workforce as a school counselor and then as a jobs counselor in the private sector. She loved working with and helping others find their place in the world. Upon retirement, there was nothing Lois loved more than spending time with family and friends, traveling and creating memories, and using her amazing talents such as jewelry making. Mrs. Rubin is survived by her loving daughters and

sons-in-law, Sheryl and Dr. Jonathan Necheles, Lisa and Grant Kravitz; grandchildren, Jordyn and Sari Kravitz, and Leo and Rachel Necheles; sisters and brother-in-law, June Graff Dreznick, Maxine Graff and Neil Goodman; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and a world of cherished friends. She was the daughter of the late Emanuel “Manny” and the late Matilda Soller (“Bobbie”) Graff. Interment took place at the Beth El Memorial Park Cemetery in Livonia. Contributions may be made the Emanuel and Matilda Graff Scholarship Fund at the Wayne State University Medical School or to Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. RENEE SAPER, 66, of Onsted, Mich., died Nov. 22, 2020. She is survived by her beloved life partner, Erik Campbell; daughters and sons-in-law, Lisa and Ryan Gindi, Justin and Sarah Saper, and Lauren Saper; grandchildren, Jacob and Noah Gindi. She is also survived by her devoted canine companion, Rowan. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, 14 Pennsylvania Plaza, Suite 2110, New York, NY 10122, ocrahope. org; ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), P.O. Box 96929, Washington, D.C. 20090-6929, aspca.

org; or to any Jewish charity. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. ROBERT E. SCHWARTZ, 95, of West Bloomfield, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Nov. 24, 2020. He was born in Youngstown, Ohio, and moved to Michigan as a young boy. Bob was a WWII veteran who saw duty with the 9th Armored Division in Germany, France and England. He earned a Bronze Battle Star and an Army of Occupation medal. After the war, Bob met and married Harriet White. He went to work and eventually became a VP and general manager for the Meyer Jewelry Company for 25 years; then he had similar roles with Simmons & Clark

in Detroit and Shifrin Jewelers until he retired. Mr. Schwartz is survived by his children, David B. Schwartz (Debra Abramson), Judy Warshaw, Ken Warshaw, Diane Schwartz (Mitchell Wolff); grandchildren, Randee Waldfogel (Zack Waldfogel), Erika Warshaw. Bradley Warshaw, Brett Schwartz, Danny Schwartz, Jacob Schwartz, Olivia Wolff, Adrienne Wolff; great-grandchildren, Asher Waldfogel, Brody Waldfogel. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Harriet Schwartz. He was the father-in-law of the late Alicia Schwartz; the son of the late Emanuel and the late Sarah Schwartz; the brother of the late Edward Schwartz; brother-in-law of the late Sylvia Schwartz. Interment was held at Oakview Cemetery in Royal

Oak. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel. DR. RICHARD D. SILLS, 93, passed away on Nov. 25,2020. He had lived a full and exemplary life and was a rich and colorful character. He will be especially missed by his wife, Geri; his children, Dr. Michael and Edita, Randall, Kenneth and Dr. Laurel Sills; his two grandchildren, Jennifer Sills and Daniel Sills and Lanny. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Sills; his sister-in-law, Michele Sills (spouse of his late brother William). Due to the raging pandemic and the current lock-down of

their residence, there will be no planned visitation or funeral services. Anyone wishing to send their condolences might do so c/o Mrs. Geraldine Sills, 5600 Drake Road, Apt. 102, West Bloomfield, MI 48322. PEGGY (BERTHA LEE DALLAS) WARSHAW passed away on Oct. 3, 2020. She was born in Ridge Top, Tenn., on March 26, 1929. In the 1940s, she came to Michigan to work in the automotive industry, eventually retiring from General Motors. Peggy had an over-the-top, vivacious personality and was always the life of the party! She will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Mrs. Warshaw is survived by her children, Debra (Clint) continued on page 44

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SOUL

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Scharff III, Mark Warshaw, and Derek (Eileen) Warshaw; her grandchildren, Courtney (Shawn) Silverman, C. Robert (Jessica) Scharff lV, Dallas Warshaw, Sam Warshaw; her great grandson, Charlie Silverman. She adored all her nieces and nephews, whom she loved beyond measure. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Charles Warshaw; her parents, Lafayette P. and Bessie Dallas; and her 6six sisters and two brothers. A memorial and celebration of life will be held in her honor in the spring of 2021.

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

NOMI WILENKIN, 76, of West Bloomfield, died Nov. 19, 2020. She is survived c. 1963 by her husband of 52 years, Judge Michael Wilenkin; daughters and sons-in-law, Ilana and Gerald Serafini, Miriam and Brad Klintworth, and Elisa and Keith Haines; son and daughter-in-law, Benjamin Wilenkin and Heidi Rice; grandchildren, Brennan Klintworth, Connor Klintworth, Jordyn Haines, Emma Rose Haines and Harleigh Haines; brother and sister-in-law, Lawrence and Moreen “Micki” Berke; nieces and nephews, Dena and Derek Bishop, and Daniel and

Shannon Berke. Mrs. Wilenkin was the devoted daughter of the late Harold S. and the late Faigel Berke. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 20450 Civic Center Drive, Southfield, MI 48076, cancer.org; or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. CORRECTION The obituary for Jack Kramer (Nov. 19) should have listed the contribution address. It is the Moslem Shriners Transportation Fund, 24350 Southfield Road, Southfield, MI 48075.

OBITUARY CHARGES The processing fee for obituaries is: $125 for up to 100 words; $1 per word thereafter. A photo counts as 15 words. There is no charge for a Holocaust survivor icon. The JN reserves the right to edit wording to conform to its style considerations. For information, have your funeral director call the JN or you may call Sy Manello, editorial assistant, at (248) 351-5147 or email him at smanello@ renmedia.us.

RASKIN

THE BEST OF EVERYTHING

‘Dino with the Golden Hands’

hen he goes into a Greek restaurant, much of the time he is greeted in Greek or with “Yassoo" or “Yassas” ... And most of the owners know what Dino Mitropoulos likes best ... Sure it is the lamb Danny Raskin Senior Columnist chops at Uptown Parthenon or Big Tommy’s or wherever his favorite Greek dishes are served. But Dino loves to eat ... even though it may not be his first love ... to go along with so many dishes he enjoys. And he is known mainly as Dino the Tailor ... who knows good food and says that it comes only after his passion for Greek cuisine. Before coming to America many years ago, Dino was well

noted in Athens, Greece, for his nimble fingers on the clothing of many noted persons ... Movie stars like Anthony Quinn, etc., and when Harry Kosins of Kosins Clothes on Griswold was in Greece, Harry had made it an absolute must to meet him. Today, as owner of his own tailoring operation, Dino is highly noted for his uncanny skill while doing work for restaurateur Joe Vicari and so many personages from all walks of life who enjoy the work of his nimble fingers ... The late Mike Ilitch, his and Marion’s son Chris Ilitch, chairman and CEO of the Detroit Tigers, and others. “In the old days,” says Dino, “a tailor in Europe had to go to school to learn his trade. Today, almost anyone can be a tailor.” ... Dino also designs and tailors clothing for women ... “I like women to dress like women. Be more female,” he says. JN 1/8 page

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During the 1992 Olympics games in Barcelona, Spain, the late Chuck Daly, Detroit Pistons coach, was also coach of the gold medal-winning American basketball team and described his tailor as “Dino with the golden hands” ... ”I like to make people look good,” says Dino ... Those people have also been Gregory Peck, Maria Callas, Marlon Brando, Brigitte Bardot, Jerry Vale, etc., etc., etc. Dino still plies his trade at Adams Square in Birmingham. OLDIE BUT GOODIE ... Isaac was out shopping when he sees a sign in a window saying, “Jacob’s Custom Made Clothing” ... He’s not sure whether to go in, it looks so expensive. But Jacob, the owner, sees him hesitating and quickly invites him in. “What are you looking for?” he asks ... “A suit for my grandson’s bar mitzvah,” says Isaac

... ”Good,” said Jacob. “You’ve come to the right place. “When we make a suit here, you’ll be surprised at how we go about it. First, digital cameras take pictures of your every muscle, and we download the pictures to a special computer to build up your image. Then, we cultivate sheep in Australia to get the very best cloth. For the silk lining, we contact Japan for their silkworms, and we ask Japanese deep-sea divers to get the pearl buttons.” “When do you need it?” asks Jacob. “Tomorrow,” says Isaac. “You’ll have it!” said Jacob. CONGRATS ... To Dr. Fred Bernstein on his 92nd birthday ... To Molly Abraham on her birthday ... To Rita Gehringer on her birthday. Danny’s email address is dannyraskin2132@gmail.com.

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Looking Back

From the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History

DECEMBER 3 • 2020

Want to learn more? Go to the DJN Foundation archives, available for free at www.djnfoundation.org.

IMAGES VIA

extended its influence over the nations of the British Commonwealth. The position is also a global bully pulpit for Judaism. Sacks was, perhaps, the most influential chief rabbi in history. The Archive holds a few interesting Jonathan Sa reports about the chief cks, former chie rabbi. The first mention of a f rabbi of th e United Kingd om, in 200 chief rabbi was in the Sept. 0. 23, 1921, issue of the Detroit Jewish Chronicle, that cited Rabbi Joseph H. Hertz. The chief rabbi had arrived in London after raising 60,000 pounds for a Jewish War Memorial Fund. The only visit of a chief rabbit to Detroit was noted in the Nov. 11, 1969, JN when Sacks’ immediate predecessor, Immanuel Jakobovits, visited Congregation Shaarey Zedek. Sacks was introduced to JN readers as chief rabbi in the Jun. 1, 1990 issue: “British Jews’ New Chief Rabbi Not From The Traditional Mold.” Sacks was a prolific and influential writer. Many references in the JN related to discussions of his work such as a “Lunch and Learn” about his book “Not In God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence” at Adat Shalom on Sep 27, 2016, or a video lecture by Sacks on Oct 11, 2017, at Congregation Beth Ahm. Perhaps the most fitting tribute to Chief Rabbi Sacks was the High Holiday greeting from the Jewish Federation of Metro Detroit for 2018 that used his words: “I don’t need you to agree with me; I need you to care about me.”

ING/GETTY

abbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, Baron Sacks of Aldgate, died Nov. 7, 2020, at age 72. Sacks was chief rabbi of the United Kingdom, 1990-2013, the tenth rabbi to hold that position. He was also a lord of the realm, knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 2009. The passing of Rabbi Sacks was noteworthy. Condolences were offered by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. News media around the world – Jewish and non-Jewish – carried obituaries and personal reminisces regarding Sacks. In the Jewish Telegraphic Agency Mike Smith obituary in the Nov. 12 issue of Alene and Graham Landau the JN, former Prime Minister Archivist Chair of Great Britain Tony Blair declared Sacks “An Intellectual Giant.” As a highly visible chief rabbi, the Cambridge-educated Sacks was a global voice for Orthodox Judaism. He spoke clearly and loudly against antisemitism, no matter its origins, and decried anti-Zionism as a form of antisemitism. Some of his positions on women, marriage and rabbinical courts were very controversial. In 2012, for example, Sacks was criticized by prominent British Jews for opposing civil marriage for gay couples. Overall, Sacks generated more good reviews than bad for his work. As he stated with a bit of tongue-in-cheek: “There are many great Jewish leaders. There are very few great Jewish followers. So, leading the Jewish people turns out to be very difficult.” I wondered what I would find about Sacks and other chief rabbis of England in the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History. The Chief Rabbinate of England was first established in 1704. It initially emanated from the Great Synagogue of London. Some historians find the roots of the concept of a chief rabbi with Oliver Cromwell, who successfully reopened England to Jews in 1656. The chief rabbi developed as a secular, non-governmental position, and eventually

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DJN December 3 2020

Articles inside

Raskin

Camp Listings

Looking Back

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Celebrity Jews

Torah portion

Back at Tamarack

The ‘Beyoncé of Israel

What’s Next for Israel After the Abraham Accords?

Moments

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Chanukah, Safely