The Reflector June 2020

Jewish Community Federation

Reflector

the

in this

issue FEDERATION

OF RICHMOND

Volume 68 | Issue 6

Sivan/Tammuz 5780

Tikkun Olam!!

PRESIDENT’S AWARD PAGES 6-7

AGENCIES

NEW PRESIDENT PAGE 8

JFS Over the past three months, there has been an outpouring of Tikkun Olam - Repairing the World - from community members on numerous occasions and in many ways.

ON THE FRONT LINES PAGE 10

TABLE of CONTENTS

STAY HEALTHY & SAFE

FEDERATION

2

AGENCIES

9

SYNAGOGUES

16

COMMUNITY

20

ABOVE - Members of Congregation Beth Ahabah’s Social Justice Committee recently assembled and delivered more than 200 care packages to “frontline” health care employees at Beth Sholom Senior Living and low-income assisted living residents at Beth Sholom Woods.

See Pages 16-17.

RIGHT - Beth Sholom health care employees at Parkside Assisted Living wave and say thanks to community members during the Chabad of Virginia’s Lag B’Omer Thank You Car Parade on May 12.

See Pages 14-15 and Back Page

| June 2020

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Federation Happenings

Fundraising with Care

By Jesse Feld Director of Development and Engagement JCFR t goes without saying that we are still living in strange and unprecedented times.

Throughout the world there are people, businesses and sports leagues adapting and maneuvering to create new ways of connection. Of course, the Jewish community is not exempt. We also are trying to both collectively and individually understand our new boundaries and provide the sense of community that makes us who we are.

Since 1935, a major aspect of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond has been raising funds to support a vibrant Jewish community for those in Richmond and all over the world. While the overall mission remains a constant, the way in which we engage donors has changed very much over time.

At one point raising money meant

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going door to door with a tzedakah box, asking for contributions. Years later Super Sunday was developed where we’d order phone banks to make sure to call everyone in the community who could contribute to the cause. In more recent years, we’ve focused our energy on events, parlor meetings, speakers and one-on-one conversations with people.

While our methods are being forced to change again with time, there are just a few constants we will maintain. The most important of those constants is that we will continue to fundraise with care.

While it has always been a practice of ours – it is more important now than ever we don’t forget about how every individual has their own realities. We don’t know everyone’s situation, but a simple question of how are you doing can tell a lot.

The mission is to support a vibrant Jewish community, and that vibrancy does not exist if our community mem-

bers have critical unmet needs. We understand because so many are struggling, our job to support them becomes all the more important, and being there to provide that support means it is our responsibility to continue raising money.

As the year moves on, please let us know if you’re interested in helping, or if you are in need

of help. Either way, your Federation is here for you, and you can trust that we are dedicated to reaching out goals while maintaining care for everyone in our community.

For more information, contact Jesse Feld, JCFR director of Development and Engagement, at jfeld@jewishrichmond.org.

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Federation Happenings

Celebrating the Power of the Community Editor’s Note: The following are CEO remarks delivered by Daniel Staffenberg at the Federation’s Virtual Annual Meeting on Daniel Staffenberg June 3. See Pages 6-7 Chief Executive Officer for more on the Annual Jewish Community Meeting.

Federation of Richmond ood Evening.

Thank you so much for joining us tonight as we celebrate the power of our community and thank and honor the outstanding volunteer and professional leadership that we are blessed to have in the community.

I am proud to represent Richmond and our Jewish Community Federation as C.E.O. Before my formal remarks I would like to thank each of you for being part of our family. You see, we can’t accomplish any of this alone. It takes each of us putting in hard work, being present and counted.

I also need to thank my own team --my family, my wife, Jill, and three sons,Kaden, Eli and Logan. Boy, I hope they are watching.

Jill works tirelessly behind the scenes supporting my role as CEO and building a beautiful and rich Jewish life for our boys. And like I have heard from so many of you, it is for the next generation we work so tirelessly. To ensure they inherit a Jewish world that is robust and strong and guides and supports their Jewish journey. Thank you and I love you; I would not be able to do this without you.

Ellen Renee, our leader and cheerleader, is my partner and friend. What a ride it has been, and I am glad we are going to go around, together again.

Let’s hope we can avoid some of the loops this time. Your steadfast commitment, do anything sprint, and unbridled enthusiasm have strengthened our community. We are truly blessed to have you guiding our path.

For 85 years, our Federation has focused on creating a just, robust and dynamic Jewish and general community in our great city. Thanks to you, we have invested many tens of millions of dollars in supporting those in need, teaching the values of Torah, connecting Richmonders to Israel and world Jewry, and working together with faith communities of all types to strengthen our understanding and tolerance of each other.

We have faced anti-Semitism, hate and terror, financial challenges and so much more ... and we have risen above IT ALL to build one of the most exciting and dynamic communities in the United States. Together we have created Synagogues of meaning and

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www.JewishRichmond.org

connection, agencies that are the gold standard for programming and engagement and we have built opportunities for connection and welcome.

We have trained and inspired Jewish leaders, in our schools, teen programs and Hillels, and we have created on ramps to Jewish life for all members of our community.

We have inspired Jewish connection with Innovative and exciting projects like Birthright, Honeymoon Israel, PJ Library, Camp Sababa, Partnership 2Gether, trips to Israel and more.

We watched together as Israel was founded -- becoming the Nation state of our people. We jumped headlong into this greatest of Jewish experiments, building a nation from literally the ground up ... and as Richmonders, together with Jews around the world, we helped Israel became a light unto the nations. We have been there to support victims of terror, Loan Soldiers, built infrastructure, community centers and brought hundreds of thousands to new and better lives in Israel.

It was my hope tonight we would be celebrating and reminiscing about being together in Israel; 100 strong; as part of our Community Mission to Israel. I wanted to see our Rabbi’s and new and longtime friends armin-arm in Jerusalem. COVID-19 had other plans, but I am excited and hopeful that next year we will be in Israel, April 11-20th, 2021.

I hope you will be with us.

Richmond has always accomplished incredible things, opening our community to Jewish families from the Former Soviet Union, providing them homes, support and jobs, and we continue to support them today.

And in Ukraine where our partnership with the city of Zaporozhe saw an exciting new chapter begin. Children at Weinstein JCC’s Camp Hilbert welcomed a young shalicha, an emissary, from the Ukraine allowing them, and hundreds of others in our community a glimpse into global Jewish life. This is a program only a few communities nationwide have been able to pull off.

Richmond is a unique PLACE. We have seen it first-hand over the last three months in response to COVID-19. The support for Beth Sholom, JFS, the Weinstein JCC, Rudlin Torah Academy, our Hillels, and our Synagogues has been truly inspiring. Our ability to work together, share, and learn from each other has helped lessen the impact of a remarkably difficult time.

There are still many challenges to come as we understand the true and lasting impact of COVID-19, but together I am confident

we will get through the difficulties.

Federation’s experience tells us that sustaining and strengthening our network of services is critical, now more than ever. I know that while the scars of COVID-19 will be open for far longer than we hoped. I also know that Richmond will respond. That resiliency, innovation, generosity and togetherness will prevail. We will rise to the occasion and make sure the community that comes out of this crisis is stronger, more united and more robust than when we started. We must be sure that no-one falls through the cracks, and doing so will take resources both financial and otherwise.

And as if COVID-19 weren’t dayenu, enough, we witness the Tears in our society grow wider. Our world is hurting and divided right now. Racial in-justice is real. Political divisions are growing, and hateful rhetoric occurs far too often and from far too many, both in power and right here within our own community. We seem to have forgotten that our true purpose and calling as Jews is to create a world of care, love and dignity. That we are each created in the image of god. That every person brings light and value to our world.

That Jewish life is about community. We are a people; we need each other regardless of political, religious or racial background. We

pray in groups, we celebrate together and we worry about the other before we worry about ourselves.

I fear that lately we have forgotten these principles. We have forgotten about the benefit that comes from working together for the common good. That we have forgotten the spirit of trust, and reciprocity. Jews have long been strengthened by a diversity of opinions and the respectful discussion and advocacy that results. These are signs of a strong community.

However, when our differences – political, religious or personal – keep us from understanding that we are all part of a greater, interdependent whole, then our work becomes more challenging and we degrade into the lowest parts of ourselves.

Our history has shown that we are strongest when we are together, and recent events and the response have only reinforced that point. As we look ahead and imagine what our community is to become, we must refrain from personal attacks, distrust and hatred of the other. We must have the strength to recognize our differences and fight back against the desire to minimize, degrade or tear apart. We must do what we as Jews have always done.

Find the light in the darkness and grow the Celebrating. More on page 7

JCFR Statement On the Death of Mr. George Floyd and Institutional Racism

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he Jewish Community Federation of Richmond expresses our grief over the senseless death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers.

We stand with the Black community and all communities of color in mourning the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others who have lost their lives simply because of the color of their skin.

We join with our partners throughout Richmond and around the nation in demanding justice and systemic change. “Justice for all” must mean something and our country simply cannot achieve the values to which it aspires until we address ongoing racism in all sectors and at all levels of society. We stand in solidarity with the peaceful protesters demanding this change, while we condemn the destruction and lawlessness that distracts us from the importance of the demonstrations.

The Jewish community knows all too well the dangers of bias and prejudice, particularly when it becomes institutionalized racism within the structures of society. Our Federation, through its Jewish Community Relations Committee, will work in common cause with the Black community to bring about a change that is long overdue. We will listen to and engage with our community partners to advocate for justice. Your outrage is our outrage - and we will never stop until hate and racism are eliminated from our society.

Tzedek, Tzedek, Tirdoff Justice, Justice, you must pursue!

(Deuteronomy 16:20)

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 3

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Jewish Community Relations Committee

Action and advocacy for the vulnerable and the insecure A

s the process of re-opening continues into the summer months, our community – like so many others around the world – is David Cohen tasked with making sense of the Director “new normal.” Though there are Jewish Community Relations few certainties when it comes to Jewish Community Federation our COVID-19 reality, one thing of Richmond is crystal clear. Our economy will be vastly different than the one we left in March.

Economic hardship - and food insecurity in particular - is and will continue to be a devastating by-product of our efforts to stave off the harshest impact of this pandemic.

Jewish communities around the globe – ones just like Richmond – rightfully took it upon themselves to address the emergent economic and health care related needs that arose from the very early days of social distancing and shelter in place orders.

Jewish community relations and advocacy work also went into high gear as legislation at both a Federal and State level was essential to keep families and business’ afloat.

As we emerge from the fog of this pandemic, we now highlight the resilience it will take to heal our economically and politically wounded nation.

In one not entirely unexpected way, the “new” normal is still the old normal. Through both advocacy and action, our response to the age-old problems of antiSemitism, racism, and xenophobia happen right along-side the work to heal our economic troubles.”

Early on in the pandemic – we saw attacks against Chinese and east Asian American communities. Little did we know that antiChinese sentiment would be even stronger now – just for slightly different reasons. But that, of course, is the point. There are no reasons that justify ascribing blame to any ethnic, cultural or

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4 | the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

religious group for the troubles an economic crash or a pandemic present.

The Jewish community stands in solidarity with every community that has been struggling during this time – whether around racist accusations and violence or the discrimination that causes communities of color to fair differently in our new world of online learning and virtual connections.

Of course, central to the times has been the anti-Semitism that we knew would rear its ugly head.

From Zoom-bombing to intentional canards about Jews creating the virus to the insensitivity involved with using Nazi-era symbols and signage at re-opening protests around the country. All of this should not have taken anyone by surprise.

We have categorically rejected the baseless blame for the virus and continue to call upon any rally intent on making their political point to leave those Nazi-themed signs at home.

We also ask everyone to heed the warnings of the ADL whose recent report found that these signs were not popping up at these protests by accident.

Groups with long standing ties to neo-Nazi anti-Semitism continue to contribute members to these rallies – a serious problem we all must speak out against and take action to stop.

In the coming months, our JCRC here will be doing what JCRC’s do best – joining with and leading the community as we try to protect and aid the most vulnerable and insecure among us. Whether that vulnerability be based on race and identity or economic hardship – the JCRC will be advocating and taking action to help.

And through all of this, as we face the coming months of advocacy for health, safety and economic recovery, we will be

On May 5, a JCRC Israel Insiders Briefing Town Hall was held featuring Haviv Rettig Gur, senior analyst for the Times of Israel who is pictured on the bottom of the Zoom screen. (Top Left) David Cohen, Jewish Community Relations director; and (Top Right) Ephraim Seidman, chair of the JCRC Israel and Overseas subcommittee, served as hosts. The program was a partnership with the WeinsteinJCC, Temple Beth-El, Congregation Or Atid, Keneseth Beth Israel, Congregation Or Ami, Congregation Beth Ahabah, Jewish Life at VCU, and the University of Richmond Hillel. To view this virtual interview, visit www.facebook.com/JCFRichmond. Additional Town Halls are planned in the coming months.

Town Hall with State Senator A second JCRC Virtual Town Hall was held in May with Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant as a guest via Zoom on May 19. The event was hosted by JCRC Chair Amy Melnick-Scharf and Jewish Community Relations Director David Cohen featuring special guest teen interviewers Claudia Sachs and Daniel Nagel.

To view this virtual interview, visit www.facebook.com/JCFRichmond.

Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant

imploring our community to engage in these conversations with the civility and honor they deserve. The summer will be hot, tensions will be high, and the upcoming November elections will add a combustible element to our public discourse on all of these fronts. We ask that as a community - we act from kindness; speak with grace; and

treat all with the dignity and respect we all deserve. That is the only path that will allow us to emerge from this crisis stronger, healthier, and as one community - and hopefully - one healed nation.

For more information or for help on an issue, feel free to email dcohen@jewishrichmond.org. www.JewishRichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 5

JCFR: Serving the Jewish Community for 85 Years

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Ellen Renee Adams

Adrienne

Federation Happenings

Courtesy of Photo Ops by

Eric Fingerhut, CEO, Jewish Federations of North America. JFNA Photo

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President’s Award Honoree Amy Melnick-Scharf Contributed Photo

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eaturing an update on the past year of accomplishments, a vision for the future – and in a different format, the 85th Annual Meeting of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond was held via a Virtual Zoom video on Wednesday night June 3.

In his welcoming remarks to the community, CEO Daniel Staffenberg, noted, “Tonight we are dedicating this meeting to memorialize and honor a few special individuals whose impact on our community will not be forgotten – Bob Reinhard, Sara Belle November and two of our community’s Holocaust Survivors, Alan Zimm and his sister-in-law Helen Zimm. Each left their mark on our community. May their memory be a blessing and their leadership and compassion be a lesson to us all.”

The special guest speaker was Eric Fingerhut, CEO of the Jewish Federations of North America who provided remarks saluting the JCFR’s 85 years and the vital role Federations play for Jews everywhere.

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n special remarks at the Federation Annual Meeting, Eric Fingerhut saluted the 85-year history of contributions of the JCFR to the Richmond community. “If we did not have the Federation in Richmond, we would need to invent it. You have built community for 85 years, year-in-and year out. You knew what to do and whom to call.” He also outlined the vital role the Federation system plays in 145 other communities.

Longtime community leader Hedy Lapkin was among those featured in videos offering remarks about the importance of the Federation in their lives and community. JCFR Screen Capture

The meeting included videos with special remarks from a group of community members commenting on the impact the Federation has made on them and their families and in the community.

Those featured were JCFR Vice President Stuart Siegel, Hedy Lapkin, Helen Griffin and her grandson, Peter Chumbris; former JCFR President Helen Horwitz; Rachel Peters; Ashley and Chris Noel and their niece, Madison; and Stephanie, Bekah and Jennifer Adams.

The video segment was introduced by Board member, community leader and former RTA President Brian Greene.

In her opening remarks, JCFR President Ellen Renee Adams, offered, “In light of the past few days, I just want to say that we are very upset about the horrific killing of Mr. George Floyd. Our hearts go out to his family – and sadly, to so many others.

“We are also deeply troubled at what has been going on for the past few nights in Richmond, and around the country.

Our beautiful city is being literally torn

6 | the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

apart. We pray the violence and destruction will end and that we can all work together for a better tomorrow.”

In reviewing the Federation’s history, Adams said,“We have so much to be proud of throughout our 85 years.

Together, we have led the community through good times and bad, wars and celebrations, challenges both economic and social, and now the hidden challenge … a pandemic. These days are unprecedented, but HINENI, we are here.”

She continued, “We were there yesterday, so we are prepared to be there today. Together with our partners agency CEOs, Rabbis, professional staff, and our extraordinary volunteer leaders, we are forging ahead. As Mark Wilf, former president of JFNA said, “Uncertainty does not stop us from forging a path forward.”

Adams noted, “The Federation continues to be the community convener - uniquely positioned to think big, leading through federal grants, Emergency

Campaigns, accelerated allocations and daily conversations. Federation touches more Jewish lives than any organization in the world. Locally, we reach all ‘flavors’ of Jews. We are focused on creating a welcoming and inviting community for everyone. Sustaining Jewish Peoplehood is what defines us.”

She recognized volunteer leaders and professional staff including Adam Plotkin, general campaign chair; professional partner Jesse Feld, and their team. “We have raised over $100,000 more than last year resulting in an overall fundraising achievement of $3.3 million. YOU, our donors, continue to step up in a BIG way, allowing us to help meet ever growing needs.”

Adams next saluted other lay leaders and JCFR professional team members that included Howard Goldfine, Allocations Committee chair; and his professional partner Sara Rosenbaum; Jim Weinberg who led the Navigating 85 Years. More on next page www.JewishRichmond.org

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Federation Happenings

JCFR board member and community leader Helen Fine Griffin and her grandson, Peter Chumbris, in a video, note the importance of Federation in many areas of the community. “The Richmond community is here for us because of the generations that came before us,” noted Helen Fine Griffin. JCFR Screen Capture.

In a video message, Stuart Siegel, JCFR vice president, and longtime community leader, talks about how he has seen the Federation impact the community over many years and has been happy for the opportunity to give back. “I feel it is not only our right but our obligation to give back. This is a place to give.” JCFR Screen Capture

85 Years Continued from page 6

the Future effort; and Robin Jackson, chair of the Outreach and Engagement committee.

She concluded by recognizing the Jewish Community Relations Committee “brilliantly led by Amy Melnick Scharf and new JCRC Director David Cohen, and the country’s first Regional Security Advisor Dave Brackins, to take key steps to protect and secure our community.

This investment benefits each of our agencies and Synagogues. Needless to say, that is a 24 hour job!”

Adams reviewed a number of accomplishments by the JCRC including securing statewide support to pass important legislation to strengthen Holocaust Education throughout the Commonwealth and secure $3 million in security funding for high-risk communities like ours.”

She noted, “Amy, because of your exceptional hard work and efforts on our behalf, I would like to present you with this year’s President’s Award, given to someone who has made an extraordinary impact.

You are an amazing leader. We are lucky to have you on our team! Mawww.JewishRichmond.org

zel Tov.” Local agency professional leadership and presidents were recognized at the meeting for their strong leadership in the past year by Adams – Mo Funk and Jonathan Joseph from Beth Sholom Senior Living; Orly Lewis and Sara Villalona from the Weinstein JCC; Wendy Klein and Sandy Sisisky from JFS; Robert Nomberg and Frances Goldman from Richmond Jewish Foundation and Rabbi Yosef Bart and David Hecht from Rudlin Torah Academy.

She noted, “You all are working harder than ever.”

Adams recognized the Federation professional staff. “You are amazing, led by Daniel. There are no words to express how much I appreciate having you as a partner.”

A new slate of officers and new board members were installed during the meeting.

They are President: Ellen Renee Adams; Vice Presidents: Stuart Siegel and Matthew Grossman; General Campaign Chair Amy Nisenson; Campaign Division Chairs Brian Greene and David Galpern; Out-

reach & Engagement Chair Robin Jackson; Secretary/Treasurer Howard Goldfine; Assistant Treasurer and Allocations Chair Josh Goldberg; JCRC Chair Amy Melnick-Scharf; FRD/Major Gifts Chair Adam Plotkin; At Large Members Lynn Schwartz, Dan Siegel, and Jim Weinberg; Chair of the Rabbinic Council Rabbi Hal Schevitz; Immediate Past President Nannette Shor and Honorary Vice Presidents Mark Sisisky and Ric Arenstein.

New board members installed at the meeting are: Seth Feibelman, Hedy Lapkin, Susan Meyers, Rob Slotnick, Debra Rodman and Charley Scher.

The meeting opened with videos of longtime community leader and Lion of

Judea Bea Fine singing the “Star Spangled Banner” and “Hatikvah” being performed by a children’s choir “Voices from Angels” from Hadera, Israel, Richmond’s Partnership2Gether sister city.

Sponsors for the evening were Hirschler, Attorneys at Law; Peck Properties and Memories Videography. The Federation is grateful for their financial support, and the support of all of our Reflector Advertisers and Corporate Partners who help us maximize our impact and drive more dollars into the community.

To watch major highlights of the Virtual Annual Meeting, visit www.jewishrichmond.org

Celebrating Continued from page 3

good together.

This work is not easy, it takes patience and care, it takes selflessness, action and effort. It takes each of us standing up, hand in hand.

We will soon launch one of the most challenging campaigns in our Federation’s history. We will ask each of you to imagine what we can become, what we can achieve and what we can accomplish together.

I can assure you that Federation is up for the challenge, that we will be THERE for our community, as we have been for 85 years.

We will be trying some new things and thinking differently about how we connect and raise the critical dollars necessary to support the individuals, agencies and programs that sustain our community.

So, let’s try a little something tonight. Our COVID-19 Crisis Refund Fund is about $20,000 short of $200,000. Please take out your phone and let’s see what we can raise tonight. EVERY DOLLAR AND EVERY GIFT COUNTS. Simply text an amount to 804-331-8311 and you can easily make a gift tonight. There are well more than 100 of us on the call. Imagine what we could accomplish together.

I thank you in advance for your generosity, as we work together to strengthen and secure our community. Chalk Chazak Vnitchazek … from strength to strength.

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 7

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Weinstein JCC Happenings

Weinstein JCC holds 1st Virtual Annual Meeting M ore than 200 community members “Zoomed in” to attend the Weinstein JCC’s first Virtual Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 14, to hear a variety of “Center Good News and Views” in a news-reporter style webinar that was fun, informative and inspiring.

Streaming safely from each panelist’s home, the meeting began with the singing of “Hatikvah” and the “Star Spangled Banner” by teen Claudia Sachs followed by a meaningful invocation by Rabbi Dovid Asher.

Previous president Richard November delivered a touching tribute to past president and close friend, Dr. Michael Wise. The evening’s business portion included the nomination and installation of new board members and officers by Shelley Gouldin.

Outgoing leader, Sara Villalona, offered remarks about milestones that took place during her tenure, including the recent hiring of the Weinstein JCC’s new CEO, Orly Lewis, formerly COO of the Center.

Lewis’ first CEO Report for the Center touched on highlights of the year as well as ways the Center has been impacted but continued to live their mission throughout the current pandemic.

“It is during the most challenging times when we witness the most beautiful things. The community we have supported for the last 73 years has continued to support us during this most extraordinary time in our history. We are very appreciative of

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the many words of encouragement that have been shared.”

The new CEO additionally reviewed strategies to keep the Center a vibrant hub of the community in the days and years ahead through the guiding compass of “building meaningful connections guided by Jewish values.”

In addition, the program featured the installation of Ashley Simon Brooks as the new president of the Weinstein JCC by her father and fellow board member, Stuart Simon.

Upon acceptance, Brooks gave an inspiring speech to the meeting participants as she began her two-year term to lead the board, affirming her commitment to support and build the future of the Center and community.

“2020 continues to test us, but it also represents a tremendous opportunity– not an opportunity we would necessarily have chosen – but one nonetheless, to build on our learnings over the past year and become better, stronger, and more efficient.” Brooks noted her appreciation for the JCC staff, Sara Villalona for her mentorship, and the board and leadership for their continued guidance and support in beginning this new chapter of the Center.

Additional program components included David Fratkin receving the President’s Award and Shelley Gouldin presenting the Weinstein JCC Annual Awards to Claudia Sachs for the Arenstein Family Excellence in Youth Service Award, Sara Villalona for the

8 | the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

The Weinstein JCC remains closed until directed by the medical and health authorities that it is safe to reopen.

To keep up-to-date on possible re-opening plans for some activities, other announcements and virtual programs, visit www.weinsteinjcc.org. For any questions or comments, please email contact@weinsteinjcc.org.

Leroy B. Goldberg Award and Melanie Grossman for the Esther, Edith & H.J. Bernstein Volunteer Leadership.

Additionally, several JCC staff were recognized for milestone years of service, including three devoted staff members reaching 35 years: Sharon Johnson, Debbie Newman and Barbara Wise.

A highlight of the evening featured a recording by two of CEO Lewis’ children, Erin Shamberg and Ari Lewis, delivering an emotional version of “How Far I’ll Go”

as a homage to their mother becoming the Center’s new leader, as well as the evening concluding with the Beatles’ “A Little Help From My Friends” performed live by JCC member and Richmond favorite, Susan Greenbaum.

To view a recording of this virtual event, go to weinsteinjcc.org.

The Weinstein JCC is supported, in part, by a generous contribution and programming grant from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. www.JewishRichmond.org

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Weinstein JCC Happenings

In Memoriam Dr. Michael Wise 1943 - 2020

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h e community mourns the passing of Dr. Michael Wise, a devoted community servant, who spent most of his life trying to make the world,

especially the Richmond community, a better place for all. As President of the Jewish Community Center in the late 1980s, his keen intellect, his broad vision, his generosity of time and resources were a blessing to both the Jewish and general community. Through many years, he selflessly served on numerous community committees and led the planning committee for the JCC summer camp, Camp Hilbert.

He was honored among the select few of the JCC’s most influential people at its 70-year commemoration ceremony. Dr. Wise was beloved by many for his genuine kindness, good nature and caring devotion.

Dr. Wise taught and eventually became the Director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he was a beloved professor, mentor and father figure to thousands of students.

May his family find comfort in the knowledge that so many share their loss and that he will live on forever in the memory of a grateful community.

Proudly Serving Richmond Since 1991

5400 Club upcoming Zoom programs HOMESTYLE GREEK AND ITALIAN

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he Weinstein JCC 5400 Club is now holding Zoom programs. All programs begin at 12:30 p.m. Upcoming scheduled programs include: June 15 - David Weinfeld, professor, Virginia Commonwealth University, “ Jews in American Politics.”

June 22 -- Dr. Fred Beck, chief editor of the U. S. Air Force History Program (Ret), “Church and State in Nazi Germany.”

June 29 --Thomas Kapsidelis, a journalist and a former editor of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, “ After Virginia Tech: Guns, Safety, and Healing in the Era of Mass Shootings.”

Outdoor seating available!

Dr. David Weinfeld

July 6 -- Michael Stone, Virginians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, “The Death Penalty in Virginia.”

July 13 -- Laura Seltzer, “The Ship Quanza.”

July 20 -- Leo Mazow, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, curator. “The Art of the American Guitar.”

July 27 -- Marc Selverstone, Miller Center University of Virginia, “Presidential Tapes During Crisis.”

Aug. 3 -- Dr. Carol Summers: UR: Talk on British Africa and WWII (Exact title TBA.) Aug. 10 -- Dr. Lauren Bell: Randolph-Macon College, “The U.S. Congress: Co-Equal or Inconsequential?”

Note: Programs and speakers yet to be confirmed after Aug. 10. Also, any changes to the speakers will be communicated to members.

Registration information with Zoom instructions will be sent to members who have signed up to receive.

For more information, reach out to Norman Sporn at n.sporn@gmail.com.

www.JewishRichmond.org

Call for take out and curbside pick up!

9068 WEST BROAD STREET

270-6026 .

June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 9

JFS serving the community on the ‘front lines’ of the Covid-19 pandemic O

ur 170-year history guides JFS as we respond to the Covid-19 pandemic, and a quote from Zipporah Cohen, JFS’ President from 1904 to 1938, inspires us: “No matter what may come to us or how severe … We will be able to meet these demands, for in the hearts of our people dwell love and charity.”

JFS’ caregivers, counselors, and volunteers are on the front lines of the covid-19 pandemic today, serving Richmond’s most vulnerable residents with love, charity, creativity, and determination.

When Virginia’s public schools closed, JFS immediately thought of our In-Home Care Aides. We have been able to meet our caregivers’ childcare and transportation needs through generous community support.

Over half of JFS’ In-Home Care clients are low-income and managing multiple chronic physical and mental health conditions: the hands and hearts of our caregivers enable them to live comfortable, dignified lives in their own homes. One caregiver said, “I have a client who’s very outgoing, so she’s not fond of sitting in the house. But we find things to do – we play games, we make it fun.”

JFS Counseling moved all of our in-person counseling sessions to video or phone call in a single week. Both counselors and clients were quick to master the now-ubiquitous Zoom software and adapt to the telehealth model.

One counselor noted that “a positive part of telehealth is how you get to meet the client where they are. Meeting their pets and seeing their space connects us, despite the physical

distance.”

Thanks to the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, we were able to place iPads in senior and assisted living facilities in order to reach our clients inside with the mental health services they need.

In March, JFS and the JCFR called hundreds of Jewish seniors to ask if they wanted to receive regular Telephone Reassurance calls. Many said yes, and JFS volunteers are now calling twice as many seniors as they had before.

Our Friendly Visitor volunteers are also delivering groceries, supplies, puzzles, and games to seniors who are isolated right now.

Thanks to our amazing friends and neighbors, we even have a waiting list of volunteers ready to help!

JFS will meet the needs of the Richmond community with the hard work of our staff and volunteers and the generosity of our friends and partners, no matter the challenges that covid-19 presents. We are profoundly grateful to share our mission to Transform Lives and Strengthen our Community with them, and with you!

If you need help or want to help, visit our website or call us at (804) 282-5644. To reach out to help JFS with donations during the crisis and for more information, email jfs@richmond.org. Thank you!

Jewish Family Services is supported, in part, by a generous contribution and a programming grant to support the Jewish Care Line from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

JFS counselors have been holding regular telehealth sessions.

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10 | the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

JFS staff and Friendly Visitor volunteers have made hundreds of regular telephone reassurance calls over the past several months. JFS Photos

A JFS Personal Care Aide in her face mask while visiting a client. www.JewishRichmond.org

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JFS Happenings

JFS Life & Legacy committee chair Scott Belleman on Life & Legacy, and JFS’ future

B

efore Scott Belleman was the Life & Legacy Committee Chair, he was a financial planner in an office across the parking lot from JFS. “I didn’t even know what JFS did,” he joked.

Now retired, Scott keeps busy with the classic hobbies – golf, tennis, bridge – and a more unusual one: “I love deferred giving. This is my retirement hobby. Volunteering with the Life & Legacy Committee made me passionate about JFS.” Scott’s perspective on legacy giving is as informed by his career as it by his infectious sense of social responsibility. “I never found it difficult to Scott Belleman ask people to give back to their community. Legacy Photo Ops by Adrienne giving isn’t just a nice idea. It’s an obligation, a recognition of what your community has given you: your friends, your teachers, your coaches. Once you feel that obligation to give back, it’s not hard to ask other people to do the same.”

And that’s exactly what he’s done as the chair of JFS’ Life & Legacy Committee: invite others to ensure JFS will Transform Lives and Strengthen Our Community for generations to come. “There’s always going to be the need for care, counseling, and adoption services. If there were no need, there’d be no JFS. Deferred and endowment giving will allow JFS to serve more people, no matter what the world looks like in fifty years.”

When asked to reflect on what he’s enjoyed about the Life & Legacy program itself, Scott doesn’t hesitate. “I loved watching the whole community get how important deferred giving is. Even though Life & Legacy is a new name, it’s not a new idea. Colleges are good at it, but most organizations aren’t.

“That’s the great gift of the Grinspoon Foundation. They put the idea of legacy giving in everyone’s head. There’s so much passion and generosity in the community, and this should be part of it. The Life & Legacy program made the whole theme of legacy giving more focused, more efficient, more impactful.”

It’s hard not to be swept up in Scott’s optimism. “The future of legacy giving looks good, especially at JFS. With this gift of momentum from the Grinspoon Foundation and RJF, JFS will continue to grow our circle of passionate legacy donors, our endowment, and our impact in Richmond.”

As we look beyond the fourth year of the program and into the future, we are humbled by the compassion and generosity of the 54 individuals and couples who made a commitment to JFS through the Life & Legacy program.

Thank you!

Thank you JFS Caregivers!

You strenghten our community every day!

Dream Home, Summer Home, Vacation Home, Retirement Home ... whether you’re looking for a high-rise on the bay, a flat in downtown or a palace on the oceanfront, I stand ready to find your new address.

I am a Hampton Roads native, raised in the Jewish Community, and am keenly aware of neighborhoods and their values.

NANCY EVANS

NancyEvans@HowardHanna.com (757) 287-5765

Over 30 years assisting buyers and sellers in Hampton Roads Experienced and Local ... a winning combination www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector |11

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Jewish Community Happenings

Shalom,

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sincerely hope this letter finds you and your loved ones healthy, employed and staying safe. It is hard to comprehend that these three factors can no longer be taken for granted.

It was Thursday, March 12th, when our Jewish Community Federation of Richmond closed the physical doors and moved into our new digital world. Shortly thereafter, it became clear the community would innately incur financial hardships, and thus the development of the Crisis Relief Fund was underway.

Since its emergent inception, the Crisis Relief Fund has made serious headway. Just to name a part of the Fund’s impact, all eight synagogues received grants to support online infrastructure and more. Beth Sholom Senior Living, our community’s senior living facility, has received grants to pay for much-needed personal protective equipment, keeping the vulnerable as safe as possible. JFS’ Richmond Jewish Care Line was bolstered thanks to donors like you who have given to the Crisis Relief Fund. Donations to the Fund also have provided health care support for the Weinstein JCC’s summer programs to ensure the utmost health and safety for those attending. The Fund is doing its job, yet we know there is still so much work to do.

We’re all weathering the same storm – but we are not equally equipped to endure the daunting storm that we are facing. We simultaneously recognize this reality, and understand more support is needed and providing the necessary assistance means continuing to ask for contributions.

Your gift today determines what our Jewish community looks like tomorrow.

We are ensuring that making a gift is as easy as ever to do. Please use the pre-addressed envelope here, or visit jewishrichmond.org/covid19 to give the gift of connection, sustainability and resilience to your Jewish community.

Thank you for your unwavering support. I hope to see you very soon, in a stronger and even more united Jewish community.

Best wishes, Jesse Feld, Director of Development & Engagement Jewish Community Federation of Richmond

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12| the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

www.JewishRichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 13

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Beth Sholom Happenings

A parade to thank heroes!

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n the evening of May 12, Chabad of Virginia hosted a Lag B’Omer Thank You Car Parade for health care workers that passed through Beth Sholom Senior Living in Western Henrico County.

During the 30 minutes, a Henrico County patrol car safely escorted more than 45 decorated vehicles with family members holding thank you signs during several slow passes in front of the Heathcare Center, Gardens and Parkside Assisted Living.

Beth Sholom Senior Living CEO Mo Funk and many health care employees waved and expressed their thanks to community members in the vehicles.

After visiting Beth Sholom the parade traveled to Bon Secours/St. Mary’s to thank health care workers there.

See Page 23 for more photos from the Beth Sholom event.

To view the Beth Sholom parade, visit: www.facebook.com/Beth-Sholom-Senior-Living-1965424113698298/

ABOVE: The Thank You Sign on this U-Haul trailer said it all during the Chabad of Virginia Lag B’Omer Thank You Car Parade for Beth Sholom health care workers.

LEFT: Many of the more than 45 vehicles in the parade had thank you signs, special flags and banners. Photos from Beth Sholom and JCFR

Thank you to all the community members for your wonderful donations to the Food Pantry for the residents at Beth Sholom Woods.

We are finding things the residents particularly need at this time are listed below should you like to donate.

Canned Fruit Paper Towels Dish Soap To drop off donations, we request people call ahead to 804-741-4691. The office is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

As always, we appreciate your continued support!

Beth Sholom CEO Mo Funk (right) waves to community members during the parade.

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www.JewishRichmond.org

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Care Bags from Beth Ahabah

Volunteers from Congregation Beth Ahabah recently delivered more than 200 special care bags to Beth Sholom Healthcare Center and Beth Sholom Woods. Pictured is are a large group of the bags . For an article and more photos, see Pages 16-17.

Beth Sholom Happenings

One of the Beth Ahabah care bags with some special treats.

Thank you

MESSAGES TO YOU FROM THE BETH SHOLOM TEAM “Thank you to all our Community Friends for all the wonderful Meals, Parades, Gift Bags, & words of encouragement. It is with deep appreciation to all of you for remembering Beth Sholom. You are our Heros.” BETH SHOLOM TEAM MEMBER “Each act of sweet remembrance of staff for their dedication to a demanding task brings strength of hope and purpose.

A simple reminder for strong compassion going hand in hand with needed action, your paths of kindness guide a better us.

Thank you all so much.” BETH SHOLOM TEAM MEMBER “Thank you alone does not express our gratefulness for all of the kindness that has been shown to us during these trying times. The meals, gift bags, treats and thank you parades have lifted our spirits and made us fee special.

Thanks again from the bottom of our hearts!” BETH SHOLOM TEAM MEMBER 1.

“We were dealing with very ill residents. We not only were villainized by the media but we were simultaneously mentally and physically exhausted, concerned about our families and grieving the loss of residents who succumbed to this relentless virus. To have the community rally around us with gestures and tokens of appreciation enabled us to endure the most difficult days of our professional careers. The outpouring of support was humbling and provided a ray of sunshine during very dark days. We are renewed, appreciative, and ready to continue to fulfil our mission of caring for the seniors entrusted to our care.” BETH SHOLOM TEAM MEMBER “I am so thankful for all the overwhelming support the community has shown our residents here at the Woods.” BETH SHOLOM TEAM MEMBER “Many thanks to all those that have given their time, money, and talents to make us all feel appreciated.” BETH SHOLOM TEAM MEMBER Beth Sholom BESH-019 . Round 4 8.3.18

2.

1600 John Rolfe Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238 | BethSholomLiving.org| (804) 421-5140

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Synagogue Happenings

Beth Ahabah members are caring for the community N

ot being able to gather to celebrate, pray or socialize does not stop members of Congregation Beth Ahabah from caring for the community.

As the pandemic shut-downs began, the Tikkun Olam and Brit Olam Committees, Beth Ahabah’s social justice committees, sprung into action.

First creating and distributing a list of resources available for those in need and ways to give for those that could.

These included not only various greater community resources such as information about unemployment insurance, health insurance, and available meals but also everything from CDC best practice protocols, ways to talk to kids about the virus, and how to make a quick facemask.

Members were encouraged to support the community by donating to the Federation’s Crisis Fund, supporting the Congregation’s ongoing collaboration with Mount Moriah Free Lunch program or helping make bi-weekly checkin calls to other congregants.

In May, spearheaded by Cantor Emeriti Fran Goldman and First Vice President Julie Mullian, volunteers sent out a call for support to provide care packages for low-income residents of Beth Shalom Woods Independent Apartments and the front-line caregivers at Beth Shalom Healthcare Center.

Many volunteers provided self-assembled care packages, wrote personal notes or cards, or special treats. Many more donated critical funds raising over $5,000 for the project.

Some volunteers shopped virtually and in-person for food, treats, games and puzzles to include in the packages, others participated in a masked outdoor packaging assembly-line, others schlepped the resulting goodies to Beth Shalom.

The delivery of over 200 care packages was cheered by both residents and staff. More care packages and delivery of necessary staples to the Beth Shalom Woods Food Pantry is planned in coming weeks.

Community care is ongoing. Wor-

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(From Left) Deka Pass and Elaine Orcilla hold their Care Bags.

Julie Mullian, Beth Ahabah First Vice President, holds several of the more than 200 care bags delivered to Beth Sholom by the special group of volunteers from Beth Ahabah. Beth Sholom Photo

ship services may be live-streaming but tzedakah and chesed are always liveaction. The committee has compiled a listing encouraging support for congregant -owned small businesses. Next up, the committees plan on partnering with our good neighbors at St. James’s Episcopal Church to manufacture and distribute at least 1,000 cloth facemasks and masking education materials to residents of North Church Hill.

For more on Beth Ahabah initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit www.bethahabah.org/

16 | the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

One of the displays at Beth Sholom Senior Living with thank you cards from Beth Ahabah volunteers. www.JewishRichmond.org

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Synagogue Happenings

ABOVE: Several Beth Ahabah Care Bags on display at Beth Sholom before they were given out. Beth Ahabah and Beth Sholom Photos LEFT: Beth Sholom Woods resident Yevelina “Lena� Solomonova holds her Beth Ahabah Care Bag.

BELOW: Several Beth Ahabah volunteers arrange the numerous items in an assembly line ready to be placed in the special Care Bags.

www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 |the Reflector | 17

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Synagogue Happenings

Beth-El Religious School Happenings

By Ramona L. Brand Director of Youth Learning

Religious School registration for the 2020-2021 school year is open!

Temple Beth-El welcomes registraton for the next school year.

For Pre-K through 10th grade: Our innovative and child centered approach to Jewish learning provides a dynamic environment where Jewish education is joyous, fun, inspiring and spiritual. Skill level Hebrew enables students to learn at an independent pace and move comfortably toward mastery. Our creative program incorporates electives, hands-on learning and interactive education.

NOTE: In response to the changing guidelines for educational programming, due to the Covid-19, the Religious School is developing a flexible fall program to include both virtual and classroom instruction. The health and well-being of our students and teachers is a primary concern as we develop the fall schedule.

General school schedule: Grades: Pre-K - 2nd / Sundays 9 a.m. - noon; Grades: 3-7/ Sundays 9 am - noon and Wednesdays 4:15p.m. - 6-:14 p.m.

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18 | the Reflector | June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780

The pictures on both pages show Beth-El classroom and other activities with children and teachers engaged in many activities during the past school year before the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual Zoom classes have been held for the past three months. Beth-El Photos

Interested in learning more about our school?

Contact Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond.org.

• Temple Membership is not required for families with students in grades Pre-K through 2nd grade • Online registration https://www.bethelrichmond.org/ school Beth-El Brown Religious School is Hiring Teachers Are you passionate about Jewish education?

Want to make a difference and an impact? Are you creative? Can you think outside the box when it comes to Jewish education? Do you want to give kids authentic and thought provoking Jewish experiences? If you answer yes to these questions, you belong here!

Teach in a dynamic learning environment where education is joyous, fun, inspiring and spiritual.

Beth-El is seeking teachers for both Hebrew and Judaics instruction.

For information or an application, contact Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond.org Got the “No Jewish Summer Camp” Blues? Beth-El is here to help.

Summer ‘virtual camp’ programming for kids is in the works. Stay tuned for more information.

To be placed on an email list for upcoming events, contact Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Synagogue Happenings

www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 19

15+ OPPORTUNITIES FOR CiLOBAL CONNECTION Through our Partnership2Cether program, in cooperation with the Jewish Agency, regularly scheduled programs have provided connections between Richmond & Israel - with even more scheduled for this Summer.

$3.8 MILLION TO COMMUNITY AGENCIES THROUGH PPP Federation provided critical advocacy and support resulting in $3.8 million to community agencies through PPP Loans. Federation local and national networks provided critical information and resources to support our agencies and synagogues in their applications.

1111111 1 1 111111 1 HELP THOSE MOST VULNERABLE IN YOUR COMMUNITY TODAY

HELP THOSE MOST VULNERABLE IN YOUR COMMUNITY TOOAY

JEWISHRICHMONDORC./COVID19

JEWISH RICHMOND OAC/COVID19

Global Jewish 9-1-1

T

he coronavirus pandemic has created a public health crisis unprecedented in most of our lifetimes, leading to vast emergency humanitarian needs worldwide.

As the global Jewish 9-1-1, JDC’s 106 years of expertise and experience responding to crises is needed more than ever.

Right now, JDC is addressing emerging needs and helping communities adjust to this new reality, and ensuring that JDC workers around the world can continue to serve the tens of thousands of people who depend on us every day. These essential workers are delivering lifesaving aid including food, medication, and homecare to vulnerable populations, working to innovate and sustain Jewish life, helping Israel’s most in-need, and providing humanitarian aid to Ethiopia.

The elderly Jews in the Former Soviet Union, are a specially vulnerable population. During this time, JDC is ensuring that vital services are continuing and additional needs are being met.

JDC’s strategy is to cotinue to provide lifesaving services while minimizing risk to our clients and staff. Supplemental emergency food and medicine are being provided for the poor elderly and children who no longer can provide for themselves.

For more on JDC’s vital work in the FSU, visit https://www.jdc.org/coronavirusupdates/

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www.JewishRichmond.org

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Jewish Community Happenings

Camp Sababa Update

t is with sadness that we officially announce the cancellation of the in-person Camp Sababa for the 2020 summer.

We are hard at work on a virtual experience for the week of July 13 for you, our loyal families and others who may never have joined us at Camp Sababa before.

The program will feature interactive, virtual offerings in art, cooking, and play, we’ll stay connected the Camp Sababa way!

If you had already secured your 2020 spot and would like a refund or convert your payment into a donation please let us know.

Plans are underway for the virtual camp experience and the opportunity to purchase a “camp in a box” full of, Camp Sababa materials to use with us.

If you are interested in learning more about our plans and signing up, please contact Sara Rosenbaum at srosenbaum@jewishirhcmond.org.

Thank You To All My Dear and Loving Friends I deeply appreciate and gratefully thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for all your very loving and sincere letters, notes, and special assistance following the passing of my beloved husband, Alan, and loving sister, Helen.

Looking For Help The Jewish Community Federation of Richmond has a detailed list of resources on its website to help community members during the COVID-19 pandemic. For details, visit https://www.jewishrichmond.org/response-to-covid-19.

Please Support Reflector

Your many expressions of sympathy, kind words and thoughtful acts were so heartwarming to our family. To know we have so many dear friends has made us feel so very special in our time of dear losses.

Advertisers.

We always will remember you with love.

Thank You!

Thank You Halina Zimm

www.JewishRichmond.org

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VHM plans virtual TEI classes via Zoom this summer

T

he Alexander Lebenstein Teacher Education Institute will be held online this summer. TEI assists educators with their understanding of the Holocaust and genocide.

Sessions focus on historical background and pedagogy which link to the Virginia Standards of Learning requirements. TEI is offered in partnership with Longwood University and is funded through generous teacher sponsorships.

The two sessions, both via Zoom, will be held from June 22 - June 26 and July 20 -24.

For an application visit www.vaholocaust.org Course #1: From Context to Classroom This online course is open to teachers who have never completed the TEI. Sessions focus on the Holocaust’s historical background and pedagogy that link to the Virginia Standards of Learning requirements.

Attendees must take part in all five days of the class and successfully complete a final project in order to complete course requirements and receive a certificate of completion.

Tuition is $30, but the application fee will be reimbursed with successful completion of all class requirements.

The course dates are: June 22 – June 26.

Course #2: Exploring Thematic Concepts of the Holocaust This online course is open to teachers who have or have not completed the TEI. Sessions build upon participants existing knowledge of the Holocaust and take in depth examination of Holocaust history and pedagogy. The week will focus on specific themes such as gender, ideology, ethics and justice.

The course dates are July 20-24.

The tuition for the course is $30, but the application fee will be reimbursed with successful completion of all class requirements.

TEI is recommended for middle and high school educators that would like to or currently teach the Holocaust in their classrooms.

For applications to be complete, educators will need a recommendation from their principal, department head or curriculum specialist.

For more information, contact Megan Ferenczy, director of education, VHM, at mferenczy@vaholocaust.org.

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Virginia Holocaust Museum Happenings

A message for Samuel Asher

T

he museum continues to remain closed under Governor Northam’s COVID-19 Executive Order. We have been meeting with the museums in Richmond and are planning a series of openings around June 15, depending on when restrictions are lifted.

We will abide by the Governor’s order and are taking additional steps to make the museum as safe as possible when we reopen. Our museum directors’ group is developing a set of protocols for us to follow when we reopen: We are already putting up signage that will encourage social distancing (both floor markers and signs on the wood columns).

We will continue our cleaning regimen and our use of paper copies of the museum tour booklet that can be recycled after each use.

Other steps are being examined such as time-reserved entrance into the building to control crowds and stagger visitors.

We have applied for and received a PPP loan from BB&T. Our accounting staff will monitor the use of funds very carefully to comply with federal grant guidelines and the dollars must be used in the next two months. We continue to move forward with our Master Plan Committee as well as our capitol projects.

We are also making changes to our Professional Development programs for educators as well as the Alexander Lebenstein Teacher Education Institute. Both of these programs will be hosted online this summer to better accommodate our teachers.

The TEI class, June 22 - July 3, will be conducted on Zoom and VHM is taking reservations now. (See the article on the left) These are pilot programs for the Museum to reach teachers from across Virginia and beyond. With the class solely online, we hope to accommodate many more teachers.

For those of you who have helped us in the past by paying for memberships or sponsoring teachers in the TEI program, please do so again. There could be no better time to help than during this crisis.

Thank you for all you continue to do as supporters of the museum. Stay safe and healthy!

To view the online video from Samual Asher, VHM excutive director, visit www.facebook.com/VHMrichmond/. VHM will post more details on its Facebook page and website as the re-opening date is finalized.

O

n May 7, 44 teachers joined a Virtual Zoom Facing History and Ourselves workshop titled “Holocaust and Human Behavior.”

The robust attendance online topped last year’s session held at the VHM with 30 teachers. Taught by Staci Rosenthal, program associate, Jewish Education, with Facing History and Ourselves, the workshop focused on deepening the understanding of the Holocaust as the group examined the choices people made during the Weimar Republic, the rise of the Nazi Party, and what the Holocaust teaches us about the power and impact of our choices today.

The workshop was free for the educators who were awarded a certificate of participation at the conclusion.

It was generously sponsored through the following Richmond Jewish Foundation Funds: • The Ipson Holocaust Education Fund • The Henry and Gertrude Kupfer Holocaust Education Fund • The Herbert J. and Ruth B. Rubel Holocaust Education Fund.

For more information, contact Megan Ferenczy, director of education, VHM, at mferenczy@vaholocaust.org.

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www.JewishRichmond.org

Thank you to our Advertisers The Reflector staff and Jewish Community Federation of Richmond wish to thank the following advertisers for supporting the Reflector in 2020. We ask community members to support them where possible during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

As always, we thank the community for supporting the Reflector and our advertisers.

Altria Theater Appliances on Lakeside Beth Sholom Senior Living Barnes & Diehl Attorneys Bookbinder’s Seafood and Grill Colonial Floors Designer Deliveries Friends of the IDF GreeneHurlocker Attorneys

Jewish Family Services Nancy Bittman Realtor Nancy Evans Real Estate Nate’s Bagels Publix Richmond Jewish Foundation Richmond Mortgage, Inc. S.L.Nusbaum Realty Co. The Tax Complex

Virginia Relay Virginia Holocaust Museum Virginia Repertory Theatre Weinstein JCC Westbury Apothecary Wegman’s Zorba’s

Thank you Friends of Reflector REFLECTOR THE

The Reflector staff and Jewish Community Federation of Richmond thank the following for their donations to the Friends of Reflector during our Spring 2020 request.

As always, we thank the community for supporting the Reflector.

Ellen Renee & Louis Adams Susan & Ronnie Adolf Tommy & Betty Baer Steve Bernstein Marilyn Blake Rhona & Irving Blank Frona & Alan Colker Peter & Sarah Coyne Jerome Feldstein Mr. and Mrs. Frank R. Friedman Sam & Gail Genderson Julie & Michael Goodman Joan Goodstein Ellen Hofheimer Robert Hyman

Jay Ipson Stuart Linder Richard & Ellen November Photo Ops by Adrienne Sheila Preville Marty Ross Marlene Sherman Renee Sherman Lenora Solodar Dr. I.N. Sporn Sylvia Tregar Aalyn Webber Vickie & Chuck Weitzenhofer Halina Zimm

How good & pleasant it is for brethren to dwell in unity.

The Reflector is published monthly by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Copy must be received two-and-a-half weeks prior to the date of publication. The Reflector reserves the right to edit or refuse any copy or advertisement submitted. Views expressed by guest writers and reader’s letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

Call for information about advertising in The Reflector at 545-8655. Acceptance of advertising does not endorse or guarantee Kashruth.

Ellen Renee Adams, President Daniel Staffenberg, Chief Executive Officer Raymond (Skip) Kozakewicz, Editor Sara Rosenbaum, Director of Impact and Community Planning Jesse Feld, Director of Development and Engagement David Cohen, Director, Jewish Community Relations

Jewish Community Federation OF RICHMOND

5403 Monument Avenue • Richmond, VA 23226

(804) 545-8620 Email: reflector@jewishrichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 23

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Chabad Happenings

Thank You Parade for health care workers

Two of the more than 45 vehicles from the Lag B’OmerThank You Parade. JCFR Photos

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here was a large turnout from the community on May 5 for the Chabad of Virginia’s Lag B’Omer Thank You Parade for health care workers at Beth Sholom and Bon Secours/St. Mary’s Hospital.

More than 45 vehicles filled with families passed through both locations and received many waves from workers. Special flags were given out for the vehicles and community members decorated their vehicles with signs, banners, balloons and more.

In a special note to all participants on May 6, Rabbi Yossel Kranz, wrote, “Thank you! What an incredible Lag B’Omer Parade! Your presence (and horn honking!) brought smiles and love to so many heroes in our community. What a beautiful statement of unity and support! Warmest wishes to all.”

For more photos, see Page 14.

To view the parade, visit chabad of virginia facebook.

Chabad Happenings on Zoom Chabad of Virginia is offering regular events and special classes on Zoom.

For more information, visit www.chabadofva. org.

Two residents at Beth Sholom Woods wave to the community members during the Thank You Parade. Beth Sholom photo www.JewishRichmond.org

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June 2020 Sivan/Tammuz 5780 | the Reflector | 24