The STL Jewish Light, Jan. 5

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A N O N P R O FIT, IN D EP EN D EN T N E W S S O U R CE TO I N F O R M , I N S P I R E , E D U C AT E A N D CO N N E C T T H E S T. LO U I S J E W I S H CO M M U N IT Y.

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FAMILY CAREGIVING 101 Boomers caring for parents also need care, support network BY BILL MOTCHAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

Until recently, I was unfamiliar with the term “palliative care.” I didn’t know the difference between assisted living and skilled nursing. I had no idea that the acronym “LO” meant “loved one.” I am a novice caregiver, making important health and living decisions about an elderly parent. Many others share my situation. From 2015 to 2020, the number of family caregivers in the United States increased by 9.5 million, according to a report from caregiving.org. Now I understand firsthand the stresses, frustrations and gut-wrenching decisions one must make as a novice caregiver. It was very personal in my case: taking care of my 100-year-old mother. I was thrust into the role of caregiver for my mother, a widow, when she took a fall in 2015 and suffered a compression fracture. That year, at the age of 95, she was active, independent and still drove to Dierberg’s or to meet her friends at Pumpernickles deli for lunch. Suddenly, she had limited mobility and used a cane to walk, then later a walker. She never cared for the walker, finding it a nuisance to put the foldable device in the trunk of a car. That was the year I retired from AT&T and moved back to St. Louis to help her out. Since my dad died in 2002, she hadn’t needed much help, and she already had a large support system of friends and relatives. That changed more than two years ago when she had chest pains and shortness of

Lydia Motchan (left), who is 100 years old, and Jennifer Wientge, Heartland Hospice spiritual adviser. Writer and photographer Bill Motchan chronicles his journey becoming a family caregiver for Lydia, his mother. PHOTO: BILL MOTCHAN breath, diagnosed as atrial fibrillation. so we thought. Things unraveled in early Over the following year, it got worse, and March, when she began hallucinating. It she had several bad episodes, including was unrelated to the TAVR. It was the two trips to the ER at Missouri Baptist result of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Medical Center. An electrocardiogram This is a common problem in the elderly, revealed her aortic valve was badly particularly women, and is often asympblocked. tomatic other than seeing strange things. On Feb. 9, at the age of 99½, she underIn her case, those odd visions were dogs went a transaortic valve running through the room, a MORE INSIDE red cat, 27 men holding rifles replacement, known as a TAVR. The procedure has Find a checklist for family preparing to shoot and a been performed for just over a caregivers on page 7. laughing woman wearing a decade. It involves pushing a sequined dress. A home tiny valve up through a vein and replacing health care nurse from St. Luke’s Hospital the bad valve, blowing out the calcification told me she had a patient who saw a cigar that prevents adequate blood flow. It takes store Indian come to life and run around about 90 minutes and is relatively non-in- in circles. vasive. Over the past six months, several more Three days later, she was released from UTIs occurred. The pattern repeated: halthe hospital and got a new lease on life. Or lucinations, dizziness and a few very bad

falls. Those falls led to several trips to the emergency room and four hospitalizations. During this period, she remained in her home, living independently, but with the assistance of home care aides who worked in shifts. I chose times of day when she seemed most vulnerable. There are a number of excellent agencies that screen and staff qualified aides. Naturally, that one-on-one dedicated care comes at a high cost, about $27 per hour. If you are tenacious, you can find free-lance aides through word-of-mouth, but reliable ones are in high demand and often hard to locate. The health care sector is facing a staffing shortage, particularly among aides and nursing assistants. The work can be physically tough, and the pay can be low. See CAREGIVERS on page 6

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INSIDE THIS WEEK’S STL JEWISH LIGHT The Newspaper of the Jewish Community of Greater St. Louis — Founded 1963

INDEX ChaiLights ................................................24

New & Schmooze ......................................3

Classifieds ................................................22

Obituaries........................................... 20-21

CONNECT WITH US

OUR BOARD AND STAFF

MAILING ADDRESS

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Features....................................................12

Opinions ...................................................10

Address for payments (for general correspondence, see address below): P.O. Box 78369, St. Louis, Mo. 63178-8369

OFFICERS Bethe Growe, President Laura K. Silver, Immediate Past President Ben Weiss, Vice President Laurie Chod, Vice President Alice Handelman, Vice President Justin Krachmalnick, Treasurer Stacy Wolff Smart, Secretary

Arts Guide .......................................... 14-18

Simchas ....................................................19

Newsmakers ..............................................8

Spotlight Photos ......................................23

Local News ............................................. 3-7

Tributes ....................................................19

Address for general correspondence: PO Box 411487 Creve Coeur, Mo. 63141

TRUSTEES Dan Bindler, Jerry Ehrlich, Richard Flom, Judy Kaplan, Debra Klevens, Mia Kweskin, Beth Manlin, Lauren Murov, Ryan Rich, Steve Rosenzweig, Jenn Sagett, Angela Sandler, Bruce Sandweiss, Adam Schneider, Helene Sherman, Joan Silber, Alan Spector, Dan Winograd

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ADVISORY COMMITTEE Terry Bloomberg, Nanci Bobrow, Ph.D., Charles C. Eisenkramer, Dodie Frey, Diane Gallant, Steve Gallant, John Greenberg, Rabbi Elizabeth Hersh, Gianna Jacobson, Gary Kodner, Linda Kraus, Sanford Lebman, Dr. Ken Ludmerer, Lynn Lyss, Donald Mitchell, Michael N. Newmark, Adinah Raskas, Jane Tzinberg Rubin, Marvin J. Schneider, Richard W. Stein, Barbara Langsam Shuman, Sanford Weiss, Jenny Wolkowitz, Vivian W. Zwick Founder Morris Pearlmutter (1913-1993)

STAFF EXECUTIVE Betsy Schmidt, Chief Executive Officer Ellen Futterman, Editor-in-Chief

SUBMISSIONS AND COMMON INQUIRIES • Send editorial submissions (calendar items, news releases, event photos and letters to the editor) to news@stljewishlight.org. • For information on subscriptions, visit stljewishlight.org/subscribe, email us at office@stljewishlight.org or call 314-743-3600. • For information on advertising, call 314-743-3676 or email advertising@ stljewishlight.org. • To submit information on a simcha announcement (engagement, wedding, birth, bar/bat mitzvah, anniversary), please visit stljewishlight. org/simchas, email news@stljewishlight.org or call 314-743-3665.

2021

The “Jewish Lite” crossword puzzle is scheduled to return to the next print edition on Jan. 19. To view this week’s crossword puzzle online go to stljewishlight.org/0105crossword.

TOP STORIES OF

Our top stories of 2021!

Check out a list of the Light’s top 10 most-read (according to pageviews online) stories of the last year.

See page 4

EDITORIAL Robert A. Cohn, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Mike Sherwin, Managing Editor BUSINESS AND ENGAGEMENT Jordan Palmer, Chief Digital Content Officer Alec Baris, Digital Engagement Associate SALES Shane Blatt, Senior Account Executive Kelly Morris, Account Executive Elaine Wernick, Account Executive PRODUCTION Erin Eason, Creative Lead CONTRIBUTING WRITERS David Baugher, Eric Berger, Burton Boxerman, Margaret Gillerman, Repps Hudson, Barry Gilbert, Cate Marquis, Dale Singer, Margi Lenga Kahn, Cathleen Kronemer, Bill Motchan

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES

See who’s making waves in our community.

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Newsmakers is a compilation of the Jewish community’s newsworthy professional and academic accomplishments.

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Read about each of our Newsmakers on pages 8-9

SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES Shabbat begins Friday, Jan. 7: 4:38 p.m.

Shabbat begins Friday, Jan. 14: 4:45 p.m.

Shabbat ends Saturday, Jan. 8: 5:40 p.m.

Shabbat ends Saturday, Jan. 15: 5:47 p.m.

Torah reading: Bo

Torah reading: Beshalach

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The Jewish Light is a community partner of Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

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PUBLISHER'S STATEMENT The ST. LOUIS JEWISH LIGHT (ISSN 0036-2964) is published biweekly by the St. Louis Jewish Light, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation, PO Box 411487, St. Louis, MO 63141-9998. Periodical postage paid at St. Louis, MO. Copyright 2021. Postmaster: Send address changes to the St. Louis Jewish Light, PO Box 411487, St. Louis, MO 63141-9998.

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Let’s talk fashion. Monique Levy, Jewish head of the STL Fashion Fund, talks about the economic impact of the fashion industry in the area.

See Features on page 12

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SUBMIT YOUR NEWS Send story tips, news releases, calendar items and photos of recent Jewish community events to news@stljewishlight.org. For more information, call 314-743-3665.

NEWS & SCHMOOZE

Hallmark movies and the pandemic — and how the twain shall meet Forgive me as I continue to shake the cobwebs from my brain after a month-long binge of the Hallmark channel. As regular readers may recall, I am a sucker for totally predictable made-for-TV holiday movies, especially ones that go heavy on the cheese. It matters little that I can tell you the ending of any Hallmark holiday movie about five minutes after it starts — that’s part of the allure. No real surprises, and you can count on the main characters’ names to be some version of Kris, Nick, Merry or Joy, though with as many titles now in Hallmark’s stable, there has been some branching out. A few Hanukkah-themed movies have entered the fray, and while they favor menorahs over mangers, the plots are every bit as formulaic, even if the characters are

named Sarah, Rachel, David or Jacob. In these movies, idyllic towns look as if they emerged from a snow globe. Everyone smiles at each other and lives in well-appointed, impeccably decorated-for-the-holidays homes. Between baking cookies, drinking hot chocolate and trimming trees, no one seems to actually work except if the work is to save the town’s historic theater or general store. And it always, always snows on Christmas Eve. I think though what attracts me to these movies most of all, is the way community is depicted. In several of these films, the protagonist has left the big city to return to the storybook hometown where she/he/they grew up, only to realize that everything — and everyone — they need is right there. It seems trite I know, and unrealistic, but being part of a community that provides roots, offers familiarity, and boasts people who are welcoming and supportive sounds pretty darn good to me. Today, with a record number of COVID cases being reported — the most since the pandemic began nearly two years ago — and hospitals over capacity as a result, community seems more important than ever. And yet, it is more elusive. Concerns for our own health and the safety of others have prompted many of us to self-isolate again. Whereas a month ago we felt OK about eating inside at restaurants, now we’re not so sure and unwilling to risk it. Even worse, the weather has turned cold, making it much harder to visit with friends and family outside. Community can mean — and be — many things at once, and I’m not just talking geographically. Our immediate family is one community, and there are others that include additional relatives and friends. Within our friend or social community, various sets and subsets exist. There is our workplace community, our school community, our business community, and depending on our interests, our volunteer community, our sports community, our religious community. Some of these intersect

and overlap. Others form because of circumstances pertaining to a specific situation or event. Regardless, these communities and others like them give us a sense of connectedness, of being part of something bigger than we are. They help us to belong. They can lead to friendships and other relationships that buoy our lives and bring more purpose to it. I know, I know, where is she going with all of us this? We get the point: communities are important. The thing is none of us live in the fictional world of a Hallmark holiday movie, which best as I can tell is immune to Omicron or any other COVID variant. Here in the real world, amid a pandemic that is very much still a work in progress, we need one another not only to survive but to thrive. There are only so many hours in the day to binge-watch mindless TV, even though some of us (OK, me!) are pros at it. Several of the gems I devoured during my month of Hallmarkamania revolved around the protagonist receiving a significant card or letter in the mail. Even though this conceit wasn’t always germane to the plot, what stood out to me was that despite all of today’s conveniences and technology, someone took the time and care to write a letter. Not an email, not a phone call, but an actual handwritten letter (and I don’t mean a thank-you note). I’m not one to make resolutions, mostly because mine rarely are successful, but I’m planning to redirect a good chunk of TV time this winter to reach out and check in with folks in my various communities. It might be by email, or phone, or (dreaded) Zoom, but I’m also going to write and send letters. If all that Hallmark watching taught me anything, it’s that with a little old-fashioned effort, we can reconnect with those we hold dear, rediscover the things that bring us joy, and try to live our best snow globe lives every day, even during a pandemic.

NEWS & SCHMOOZE News and Schmooze is a weekly column by Light Editor-in-Chief Ellen Futterman. Email Ellen at: efutterman@ stljewishlight.org

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LOCAL NEWS

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Here are our top 10 most-read stories of 2021 BY ELLEN FUTTERMAN & JORDAN PALMER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CHIEF DIGITAL CONTENT OFFICER

Heading into 2021, many of us felt certain that it would be an easier year than the one we were leaving behind – the one that introduced us to the coronavirus and its variants. But here it is, another new year, and COVID, unfortunately, is still making headlines – except when it comes to the Jewish Light’s Top 10 most popular stories of the year. The first list below shows the most read local stories on our website stljewishlight. org — stories that were generated by Light staffers and freelancers. The second list shows the most read trending stories on the Light’s website. These 10 stories included stories from other media partners and topics that were not specific to St. Louis. The one-story that made both lists was written by Parkway West High School veteran journalism teacher Debra Klevens, who also is on the Light’s Board of Trustees. Her piece centered on students’ compulsion with their cell phones and how much worse it has gotten since school districts returned to in-person learning at the start of the 2021-22 academic year. As she explained: “We have a generation of students who spent the last 18 months tethered to their phone while they were supposed to be Zooming. While their foreheads or ceilings were on the screen, they had the freedom to do as they pleased. Now, we’ve returned to learning and teaches are fighting a losing battle.” The story resonated with readers both here in St. Louis around the world, thanks to Google. The story was read more than 135,000 times. In case you missed any of the stories below, you can find links to all of the stories by visiting https://bit.ly/JL-2021.

The Light’s top-read stories of 2021 included a story about stranded Camp Sabra campers (above) getting help from a Colorado church as well as remembrances of (at right, from top to bottom) of Barbara Goodkin, Malachi Owens and Andy Neiman.

Top 10 most popular local stories online in 2021 1. Commentary: A new addiction hiding in your child’s hand – 136,371 pageviews 2. Community mourns loss of artistic powerhouse Andy Neiman – 13,905 3. How the kindness of strangers found a group from Camp Sabra – 12,256 4. Barbara Goodkin, fatally shot, planned to serve as Holocaust museum docent – 10,182 5. Malachi Owens Jr., cantorial soloist at Temple Emanuel for more than 40 years, dies at 71 – 7,856 6. Editorial: Why won’t Cori Bush talk to the Jewish Light? – 7,642 7. Commentary: Don’t let others be scared into silence – 7,283 8. How Cardinals’ manager Mike Shildt makes it harder to defend him each week – 5833

9. 50 years ago today, the Grateful Dead crashed a St. Louis bar mitzvah party – 5,637 10. Testing Gordon Ramsay’s scrambled egg recipe – 5,582

Top 10 most popular stories overall in 2021 1. Mila Kunis, Neil Patrick Harris, Helen Mirren and over 200 other celebrities sign letter denouncing cultural boycott of Israel – 400,199 2. A new addiction hiding in your child’s hand – 136,172 3. Chinese state-run site proposes ‘final solution to the Taiwan question,’ and German lawmaker compares it to Nazi rhetoric – 43,263

great-grandfather survived the Holocaust – 29,145 5. 11 things you need to know about ‘Shtisel’ star Michael Aloni – 27,021 6. Jewish Jokes: Did you hear the one about the two elderly Jews on the bench? – 19,220 7. Kamala Harris and Douglas Emhoff wanted an appropriate menorah. They turned to the ‘Mensch of Maiden Hills.’ – 19,131 8. An Israeli documentary chronicles a real-life relationship between an Auschwitz prisoner and an SS officer – 18,124 9. Hundreds protest antisemitism after German hotel staff accused of refusing to serve man wearing Star of David pendant – St. Louis Jewish Light – 17,344 10. 5 things to know about Liev Schreiber’s ‘Ray Donovan’ movie – 15,167

4. In Israel for Miss Universe competition, Puerto Rican contestant reveals that her

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School names next head of school The Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School has appointed Raquel ScharfAnderson as Mirowitz’s next Head of School beginning July 1. According to a letter sent to parents, Scharf-Anderson has spent most of her career in the Jewish day school world. For many years, she was Assistant Head of School for Pardes Jewish Day School in Scottsdale, Ariz., and later served as Head of the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School in Jacksonville, Fla. and the Seattle Waldorf School. She says her roles as a school leader, as a cantorial soloist, as a teacher, as a volunteer and as a mother have been influenced by Jewish teachings, and that she believes the opportunity to lead Mirowitz will allow her to live her life’s purpose each day. Scharf-Anderson is passionate about supporting diverse learners, and ensuring a school culture marked by kavod (respect) and chesed (kindness). As a school leader, she values communication and approachability, and understands that to lead a Jewish day school, one must model limud lishmah (learning for the sake of learning), gemilut hasadim (acts of loving-kindness), tikun olam (repairing the world) and derech eretz (involvement in worldly concerns). Scharf-Anderson will move to St.

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Raquel Scharf-Anderson will serve as Saul MIrowitz Jewish Community School’s next head of school, starting July 1. Louis with her husband Eric this summer. They are parents of two young-adult children, Samuel and Tzipporah, who are Jewish day school graduates themselves. Scharf-Anderson will succeed Head of School Cheryl Maayan, who announced after 14 years, she would be leaving her position at the end of the academic year to pursue other professional and personal interests. Maayan was credited for leading Mirowitz to become a thriving and esteemed school that attracted several quality candidates.

New Jewish Theatre opens season with Neil Simon’s ‘Laughter on the 23rd Floor’ The New Jewish Theatre will open up its five-show 24th season with a Neil Simon classic comedy. “We chose to open our season with this play because of its unique humor and because it allows us to continue our exploration of America’s most prolific Jewish playwrights,” said NJT Artistic Director Edward Coffield. “Our audiences love Neil Simon. We had a colossal hit with ‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’ in 2019, and this play is also biographical. I consider it to be one of his funniest plays.” “Laughter on the 23rd Floor” is inspired by the Simon’s youthful experience as a staff writer on Sid Caesars’s “Your Show of Shows.” This ensemble comedy features all the comic dramas as the harried writing staff frantically scramble to top each other’s gags while competing for the attention of star madman, Max Prince. The show features a talented cast, including several actors making their NJT debut: Aaron Mermelstein as Val, Joel Moses as Milt, Michael Pierce as Kenny, Ben Ritchie as Max Prince, and Annie Zigman as Helen. Returning to NJT: Dave Cooperstein as Ira, Kirsten Wylder Debroux as Carol, and Jacob Flekier as Lucas. The production is directed by Artistic Director Eddie

Coffield. The creative team is comprised of Dunsi Dai (scenery), Michael Sullivan (lighting), Ellie Schwetye (sound) and Michele Siler (costumes). Siler is celebrating her 22nd season as the resident costume designer at NJT. “Laughter on the 23rd Floor” runs Jan. 20 – Feb. 6 at the Jewish Community Center’s Wool Studio Theatre, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. Individual tickets are $47-$54. Season tickets and Flex Passes (a five-ticket package customized to the ticket holder’s preference) are availEddie Coffield able at the box NJT Artistic Director office, by phone is directing ‘Laughter 314-442-3283 or on the 23rd Floor’ online at newjewishtheatre.org All NJT productions require proof of vaccination (both doses of Moderna or Pfizer vaccines or one dose of Johnson & Johnson). Vaccination card or photo accepted, plus photo ID. Masks must be always worn properly over nose and mouth by everyone.

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LOCAL NEWS State Rep. Adam Schwadron (left) and Sen. Brian Williams announced the pre-filing of the bill during a visit to the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum on Dec. 17.

New bill would establish ‘Holocaust Education Week’ in Missouri A new bill would establish “Holocaust Education Week” in Missouri, aiming to expand Holocaust education programs and opportunities in the state. State Rep. Adam Schwadron, R-St. Charles, and State Sen. Brian Williams, D-St. Louis County, announced the pre-filing of the bill during a visit Dec. 17 to the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum. Schwardon and Williams chose Friday and the museum for their announcement to commemorate Dec. 17, 1942, when the Allied nations, including the United States, issued a statement condemning the Nazi mass murder of European Jews. “Among the multitude of reasons for sponsoring this bill, a recent 50-state survey showed a disturbing lack of knowledge about the Holocaust among schoolaged children,” said Schwadron. “By having a dedicated week for learning about the Holocaust in our schools, we can learn from what happened and discourage bigotry and antisemitism from growing.”

Crown Center for Senior Living has received funding from Ameren Missouri for the Senior Nutrition Program. This program serves adults age 60+ who may be at risk for nutritional deficiency and its detrimental effects. Food insecurity is a recognized as an ongoing problem for the elderly due to low incomes; minimal or no family support; lack of transportation; physical limitations and compromised health issues. Thanks to the generosity of organizations like Ameren Missouri, meal delivery will continue to Crown residents and area seniors, who receive at least five fresh, nutritional, tasty meals per week The Senior Nutrition Program seeks to help at-risk seniors to reap the benefits of good nutrition, bolstering the likelihood that they will experience a high quality of life and sense of well-being; and helping them to remain living independently for as long as possible.

JSU leads President’s Day weekend relief mission to Puerto Rico for teens In 2017, Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico leaving a great deal of devastation in its path. Jewish Student Union (JSU) Relief Missions have been going down to help rebuild ever since. Over President’s Day weekend (Feb. 16-21), JSU teens from St. Louis and

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EPSTEIN HEBREW ACADEMY EDUCATING THE WHOLE JEWISH CHILD

Williams emphasized the importance of teaching the Holocaust. “Unfortunately, there are still people who try to deny or downplay the Holocaust. As a Black man, I know what it’s like when someone tries to rewrite history to minimize the atrocities committed against your community. History must never be erased. History must be studied, understood, and discussed so that its most horrific acts do not happen again.” Should this bill be enacted into law, Missouri will join 18 states that require Holocaust education as part of their secondary education curricula. Similar laws in Arkansas and Maine will be implemented in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Currently, Missouri also maintains a permanent Holocaust Education and Awareness Commission, housed under the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. To read the entire bill, visit https://bit.ly/ Holocaust-Education-MO.

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January 5, 2022

Minneapolis will join forces and travel to Puerto Rico to continue the work. While there, the teens will help rebuild schools and homes, and help farmers combat food insecurity among other impactful activities. There will also be time to take in the sights and sounds of Puerto Rico with visits to Old San Juan, hiking in the El Yunque Rainforest, and much more. JSU Relief Missions are transformative volunteer experiences that empower teens to make an impact and contribute to something bigger than themselves. Through these relief missions, teens gain a new perspective, connect to the Jewish value of tikkun olam (repairing the world), and experience a newfound desire to help those in need by being taken out of their comfort zone and placed on the front lines in the aftermath of natural disasters. These life-changing missions are the most effective forms of leadership training. Beyond the rigorous pre-trip training, teens learn to comfort those suffering from disasters not only physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. They return forever changed, with the confidence and drive to take leadership roles in their own communities and around the world. JSU’s last mission to New Orleans was a huge success and the group is looking forward to making a difference in the lives of both the residents of Puerto Rico and the mission participants. Teen who participate will learn new skills and develop deep connections with the other teens and staff from St. Louis and Minneapolis. The cost of the trip is $599 (all inclusive). To register, or for more information, call Rabbi Mike Rovinsky at 314-498-6279. (Limited spots remain.) The trip is open to Jewish teens grades 9-12.

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Certified Teachers Differentiated Learning Guided Readers and Writers Workshop Models NGSS Science Standards i-Ready Blended Mathematics Authentic Jewish Studies and Celebrating Jewish Living Hebrew Language Immersion Teaching & Celebrating Israel as our Homeland Exam scores routinely above national & state averages on ACT, SAT, and AP

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WEISMAN FAMILY SCHOLARS AWARD

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LOCAL NEWS

January 5, 2022

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Family caregivers: Boomers caring for parents also need support CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 An excellent home care option for homebound individuals who need just a little help is the JFS (Jewish Family Services) homemaker care program. The program offers home visits by aides and includes light housekeeping, personal care and meal prep. Best of all, there is a very affordable rate for low-income patients. Naturally, these aides are in high demand, and there is usually a three-month waiting list to begin. My mother’s most recent fall was in August. It was the result of a UTI that left her unable to stand or walk. Confined to a wheelchair, bruised and exhausted, a return to independent living seemed unlikely. Her doctor and social workers at the hospital offered two options: 24-hour, in-home care, or a skilled nursing facility. The latter was not what she or I wanted, but it was financially feasible. That’s because the cost of 24-hour in-home care would likely exceed $12,000 a month. I chose a nursing facility, supplemented by palliative care from Heartland Hospice. After she was admitted, I felt a sense of defeat, that I had failed as a caregiver. That gave way to guilt. Finally, I arrived at a level of acceptance, or something close to it. I asked my mother what the biggest challenge was for her new environment, and she quickly answered: “Being at the mercy of others.” She was referring to social workers, health care aides, nurses and, to some extent, me.

Levels of care To understand the options available to a caregiver, I spoke with Sharon Gorman, president of Certified Care Management. “Think about the words ‘independent living,’” Gorman said. “There are a lot of seniors who live in their own apartments. They’re independent. They may have some somebody get their groceries. Then there are people who live in communities independently. They don’t want to mow the lawn. They want food cooked because they have trouble standing. Maybe they have medicines that need managing and they just want to make things simple. Maybe they don’t drive and need transportation. “Then, assisted living. It can look like a regular apartment. It’s when you need assistance with daily activities, like showering, maybe some toileting issues. Definitely medicine reminders. Maybe they have compression hose they can’t get on. We have some cases where residents are independent at the Gatesworth and have 24-hour care because that’s where they want to live.” For people who need the most help, who no longer can care for themselves

Dr. David Goldmeier, a psychiatrist, said many family caregivers struggle with the reversal of roles in caring for one’s parents. because of memory or physical limitations, the final option is a nursing home, known in the industry as “skilled nursing” or sometimes just the word “skilled.” Gorman described this as, essentially, “a dressed-up hospital.” For Missourians who lack long-term care insurance or a substantial nest egg, the cost can be substantial for independent living with home health aides or assisted living. Neither Medicare nor Medicaid cover these options beyond seven hours per day if the patient meets specific qualifications. Skilled-nursing residents can qualify for Medicaid if they meet financial guidelines, but not all facilities accept Medicaid recipients. A caregiver should be aware of two additional levels of care: hospice and palliative care. Both are ways to offer medical care and comfort for someone with severe, chronic health conditions, and both are eligible for Medicare coverage. The downside of hospice care is that the patient becomes ineligible for any rehab therapy. There is one other option for a patient who needs palliative care and could benefit from therapy. It’s known as advanced disease management.

Role reversal for parent and child The sheer number of baby boomers who suddenly find themselves in the role of

caregiver has created a busy workday for Abby Wolner, the JFS ElderLink resource specialist. “I would say 80% to 90% of my calls are with adult children of older adults,” Wolner said. “There’s this real delicate balance between respecting your parent’s autonomy and protecting their safety. And I think that is really hard for people to know how to navigate because they’re unsure. They just don’t want anything bad to happen, you know, but they’re unsure how boldly to step in. “A lot of adult children of older adults are dealing with some pretty stubborn and set-in-their-ways parents, so it causes tension in the relationship from that angle, too. They are in a position of, ‘I’m trying to help you and trying to keep you safe.’ And the older adult is refusing or doesn’t think they need the help.” The need for a caregiver to step in often comes unexpectedly, and neither parent nor adult child may have given it much thought. That’s because they are both busy living their own lives. “I think it catches people off guard,” said Jennifer Wientge, Heartland Hospice spiritual adviser. “I don’t think a lot of people are prepared for the reversal of roles. When my mom got brain cancer earlier this year and all of a sudden moved into my house — a woman who was working full-time until she was 78 — I did not know how to become the care-

PHOTO: BILL MOTCHAN

giver without seeming like I was usurping her authority.” The role reversal weighs heavily on the caregiver because of the discomfort it creates, said Dr. David Goldmeier, a psychiatrist. “Many of my patients talk about the burden of having to deal with their aging parents,” Goldmeier said. “It can be challenging, especially if your patient has special needs. There’s a period of transition.”

Stress and uncertainty Elaine, 69, is a Jewish college professor who lives in south Texas. Her mother, Marsha, is 95 and lived in an independent community in University City until recently. Marsha began to exhibit memory loss around the end of 2019. Gradually it increased. [Their names were changed for privacy.] “In July, my mother started wandering at night, and someone called the police,” Elaine said. “She was taken to the hospital, and the hospital didn’t want to release someone who has dementia unless she’s getting 24-hour care. I was able to quickly get her admitted to a facility. By coincidence, I was in St. Louis in May, and I started looking into nursing homes for the future, not knowing that the future would be in two months.” Continued on opposite page

ABOVE: Bill Motchan and his mother, Lydia Motchan. RIGHT: Sharon Gorman, president of Certified Care Management. PHOTO: BILL MOTCHAN

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As a remote caregiver, Elaine depends on skilled-nursing professionals and friends to make sure her mother is safe and secure. Marsha wears an ankle monitor, a “wander guard,” that sounds an alarm if she inadvertently leaves the facility where she is housed. Still, there is uncertainty that weighs on Elaine. “I’m single, I’m living by myself with my dog, during COVID, and I’m dealing with the stress on my own, which is really tough,” she said. “What helps is I will call a friend and invite him over, and we have a great conversation. He’s offers good support and he’s a good listener. “I have also found one thing I can do instantly is take a nice, slow deep breath. That helps me relax. I started something mentally to try and de-stress myself because I’ve been really stressed out. I found the answer is gratitude, and I start with the words, ‘Thank you for …’ and complete the thought with ‘… that I’ve got a job I like,’ ‘that I have the time to deal with all this financial stuff.’ “I’ve also started a relaxation technique I read about where you take a deep breath and hold it in for five seconds. You do it five times a day. It really works.” The self-care tool that Elaine discovered is significant for the caregiver. Shortly after my mother became a resident at a skilled-nursing facility, a nurse from Heartland Hospice examined her and deemed her, overall, in good shape. Then the RN turned to me and said bluntly, “You don’t look so good.” That assessment was based on my stress level and constant second-guessing my decisions. As a caregiver, you also often feel the need to do everything you can for your parent. The problem is that constant worry will only make you less effective. Self-care is an essential tool for a caregiver to decompress and chill out. “I tell my patients that if you don’t take care of yourself, you’re not going to be an ideal caregiver for your loved one,” Goldmeier said. “And if you want to be the best caregiver, you’ve got to be the best you that you can be.”

January 5, 2022

Page 7

A checklist for novice caregivers Novice caregivers can easily feel overwhelmed, not just by their new responsibility but also a steady stream of information, acronyms and unfamiliar terminology. Then there is the paperwork and recordkeeping, particularly if you are seeking state and federal assistance. Following is a checklist of some of the things that novice caregivers should be aware of and questions to ask.

Financial • What is your budget? • Does your loved one have long-term care insurance? • If you are seeking Medicaid assistance, some assets could actually limit available aid. You must have readily available financial records (including savings, income, real estate deed/ mortgage, automobile title). • Home care skilled nursing averages $30/hour. Medicaid assistance is available for up to eight hours a day for home care, but the application process is not simple.

Living Arrangements • One of your first decisions is to determine which care option is best: home care, independent living, assisted living or skilled nursing. A medical professional and social worker can assist in the evaluation. • If you choose home care, select a highly rated agency. Freelance home care aides will save you money but finding a

qualified aide can be challenging because the demand is high. • A loved one who is highly independent and mobile may require minimal home care. JFS (Jewish Family Services) offers the Jewish Homemaker Program, and the cost is subsidized. Individuals pay based on their income. NOTE: There is usually a three-month waiting list. • Assisted living facilities are generally the highest-cost options. They do not qualify for any Medicaid assistance. • Some skilled nursing facilities limit the number of Medicaid residents so you may need to apply to several. • Take a tour of the facility you are considering and ask yourself if you’d be comfortable living there.

Caring for the caregiver • The role of caregiver can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s a good idea to have a support system (friends, relatives) who can help share caregiving. Sometimes it’s good just to have someone to talk with. • Don’t try to do everything for your loved one. If you become exhausted, your value as a caregiver will lessen. • There is a tendency to feel guilty if you’re having fun while you are worried about your loved one. It’s not easy to take time for yourself to recharge. But it’s important to take care of yourself, for your own emotional well-being. — Bill Motchan

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The value of professional assistance A novice caregiver is often thrust into a sea of acronyms, arcane terminology and paperwork. There are ongoing decisions to make and logistical issues, such as arranging transportation for routine doctor exams. The stress is ongoing and can feel overwhelming. It helps to consult with professionals who understand. JFS ElderLink (314-812-9300) is an excellent starting point to identify resources and get much-needed emotional support. Don’t feel like you are alone. Millions of other caregivers are dealing with the same issues. It’s also important to separate your emotions from logical thinking. “Caregivers have a feeling of vulnerability because you don’t know everything and you’re emotional,” said Gorman of Certified Care Management. “I truly believe that you cannot be emotional and intellectual at the same time. You could have someone who is a doctor, but it’s their mom, and they can’t think through it. Likewise, you can have a parent who has a very educated child, and they don’t listen to them because the emotionality is part of it.” Gorman’s company is another excellent resource for a caregiver who isn’t sure where to proceed. She has a staff of care managers who can perform an assessment and develop a care plan. That may include options about what type of facility would best meet the needs of the caregiver’s loved one. Making the right decision is the one issue that stresses out caregivers, she said. “A survey was conducted among care managers to determine what people felt was the best thing that they got out of their work with the care manager, and the No. 1 answer was peace of mind.”

2022-01-05 page 06-07.indd 7

Start saving for your child’s future Israel experience today with help from the Jewish Federation of St. Louis & participating congregations.

For more information, contact Jody Gerth at JGerth@JFedSTL.org or 314-442-3881. JFedSTL.org/Israel-Center.

Israel Center Jewish Federation of St. Louis

1/4/22 5:09 PM

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January 5, 2022

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NEWSMAKERS Newsmakers is a compilation of the Jewish community’s newsworthy professional and academic accomplishments. Submit your news to news@stljewishlight.org. Call 314-743-3669 for more information. Published the first edition of each month.

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Rabbi Ze’ev Smason will be retiring after 25 years in the pulpit at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion. He will continue to be the spiritual leader until August. Smason will then continue his support with Israel advocacy. Among the 2022 inductees of the Clayton Alumni Hall of Fame are Chuck Cohn (2004), founder, chairman and CEO of Nerdy (parent company of Varsity Tutors), Clayton; David Garfield (1974), musician, songwriter, composer, producer, record label owner, Los Angeles; Larry Gellman (1966), former TV news reporter, financial advisor, Tucson, Ariz.; John Rosenfeld, M.D. (1970) pediatrics specialist, Ketchikan, Ala.; and Vanessa Merit Nornberg (1993), owner of Metal Mafia wholesale jewelry company, Paris. They will be honored at a joint induction, with the class of 2020, on April 22, at Clayton High School with a gala celebration the following night at the St. Louis Club. Photographer William Greenblatt, a news and sports photographer, is one of 13 people and five high school programs/ teams recently inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. His career spans 49 years, and he has worked as a staff photographer for United Press International since 1980. He also has been an official photographer for the St. Louis Fire Department, the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame, the St. Louis Cardinals and politicians on both sides of the aisle.

TOP ROW, FROM LEFT: Rabbi Ze’ev Smason, Chuck Cohn, David Garfield, Larry Gellman, Dr. John Rosenfeld and Vanessa Merit Nornberg. SECOND ROW: William Greenblatt, Dr. Kenneth M. Ludmerer, David Rubin, Richard Tishler, Rick Cornfeld and Daniel Levy. THIRD ROW: Alex Abramson, Alice Handelman, Michael Staenberg and Carol Staenberg. Dr. Kenneth M. Ludmerer has received the 2022 John C. Gienapp Award for Distinguished Service to Graduate Medical Education from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). He is being recognized for chronicling the residency experience in his book “Let Me Heal,” for amplifying the

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role of clinician well-being and for playing a vital role in the development of the current ACGME Common Program Requirements. The ACGME, based in Chicago, is responsible for establishing and enforcing standards in residency and fellowship programs in all specialties at all U.S. hospitals. David Rubin has been named to the 2022 edition of U.S. News and World Report list of Best Lawyers in America. For the past five years, the Law Offices of David A. Rubin has been included on its list of the Best Law Firms in America. Richard Tishler, managing shareholder of Riezman Berger P.C., is listed in Missouri Super Law yers 2021for business/corporate law. He attends Congregation Shaare Emeth. Rick Cornfeld of the Law Office of Richard S. Cornfeld has been selected president of the Class Action Trial Lawyers Association Top 25. This group is composed of and limited to the top 25 trial attorneys from each state or region who serve individuals and families. In addition, Cornfeld, a member of United Hebrew Congregation, was listed in Missouri Super Lawyers 2021 for consumer protection and class action law.

Daniel Levy of the Law Office of Richard S. Cornfeld has been selected again as a Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyer in Missouri. He was also listed as a Rising Star in class action/mass torts by Super Lawyers 2021. Alex Abramson is on the Forbes Under 30 list for 2022. A postdoctoral fellow at Stanford, he and his team developed an ingestible robotic capsule to deliver biologic drugs that normally require an injection or infusion. His approach, published in Science, has worked in large animal models with drugs including insulin and Humira, and his patent portfolio has been licensed by Novo Nordisk. The St. Louis Press Club has announced a new scholarship called the Alice Handelman Scholarship Fund for Feature Writing. Thanks to an $18,000 grant by Jewish philanthropists Michael and Carol Staenberg, $3,600 will be donated annually for the next five years to her Scholarship Fund. Handelman, a member of Temple Israel, is a longtime board member and past president of the Press Club as well as a vice president of the Jewish Light’s Board of Trustees. Continued on opposite page

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January 5, 2022

Page 9

LEFT: Washington University has promoted Amy B. Kweskin to executive vice chancellor for finance and she will continue as the university’s chief financial officer. PHOTO: JOE ANGELES/ WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

ty partner whose accomplishments are advancing medicine, ensuring the delivery of world class patient care and educating the next generation of clinicians. Holtzman is being recognized for his work aimed at uncovering the causes of Alzheimer’s disease. He is the Barbara Burton and Reuben M. Morriss III Distinguished Professor and the scientific director of the Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, and associate director of the Knight Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, at Washington University School of Medicine. Holtzman attends Shaare Emeth.

TOP ROW, FROM LEFT: Jimmy Loomis, Ohad Kadan, Korina Gabrielson and Jerry Thomeczek. SECOND ROW: Debra Klevens, Dr. David Holtzman, Robert Glassman and Rabbi Carnie Rose. Former St. Louisan Jimmy Loomis has been named a finalist for the 2022 class of Presidential Management Fellows. The PMF program is a selective, two-year, rotational fellowship for advanced degree holders. Finalists have the opportunity to gain leadership development skills, interview for opportunities with government agencies and, upon successful completion of the fellowship, are eligible to transition into full-time government positions. Loomis lives in Washington, D.C., and is the defense and foreign policy adviser to Democratic U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy of Florida. Ohad Kadan will be the new dean of Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business effective July 1. He is vice dean for education and globalization, and the H. Frederick Hagemann Jr. Professor of Finance, at the Olin Business School at Washington University.

During Congregation Temple Israel’s 135th annual meeting, Korina Gabrielson and Jerry Thomeczek were installed as members of the board of trustees. They will each serve a three-year term. Gabrielson is vice president of tax at Energizer Holdings; Thomeczek is an associate in the corporate group at the Husch Blackwell law firm.

Robert Glassman, a graduate of the Whitfield School in Creve Coeur who is now a trial attorney in Los Angeles, has established the Glassman Leaders program, which is designed to supplement and advance the goals of the school’s “Habits of Mind & Heart” program, in which students develop public speaking and leadership skills through coursework and mentorship. One junior and one senior who have participated or are participating in Whitfield’s Leadership Development Series will be selected each year.

Debra Klevens will be recognized this spring at the Journalism Education Association’s Spring Conference as the Distinguished Adviser of the Year. She is the journalism adviser for the yearbook and online news at Parkway West High School. Klevens attends United Hebrew and is a member of the Jewish Light’s Board of Trustees. Neurologist and neuroscientist David Holtzman has received the 2021 President’s Achievement Award from the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital. This award is given to a physician or facul-

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Washington University, has been promoted to executive vice chancellor for finance and will continue as chief financial officer. In addition to her responsibilities for the financial operations of the university, she will oversee the university’s real estate portfolio, operations and development, as well as represent the university on the board of the Cortex Innovation Community. Kweskin is a member of Shaare Emeth. Rabbi Carnie Shalom Rose of Congregation B’nai Amoona has been selected as one of 24 Jewish educators for the World Maccabiah games in Israel. Prior to the games in July, the athletes will participate in a 10-day training camp to learn about Judaism and Israel. This is a joint effort between Maccabi USA and iCenter, a company based in Chicago that works with American Jewish educators and learners in transforming the field of Israel education. Rose, as part of the Maccabi team, will march in the opening ceremonies. — Newsmakers is compiled by Elise Krug. To submit an item for consideration on the Newsmakers page, visit stljewishlight.org/submit-newsmakers or email news@stljewishlight.org.

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January 5, 2022

OPINIONS

STL

JEWISH LIGHT

stljewishlight.org

ABOUT THE OPINIONS SECTION Viewpoints expressed in letters, commentaries, cartoons and other opinion pieces reflect those of the writer or artist, and not those of the Light. We welcome submissions of letters and commentaries to: news@stljewishlight.org

D’VAR TORAH: PARASHAT BO

Asking for help is a sign of self-worth, strength BY RABBI JEFFREY ABRAHAM

Moses relates the commandments the Israelites must fulfill on the fateful eve of Passover in Egypt in our parsha this week, Bo. Can you imagine their fear and trepidation? This includes the consumption of the paschal lamb. Moses is then told to give the nation an additional instruction. Before the people finally leave Egypt, they must ask the Egyptians for “gifts”: “Tell the people to borrow, each man from his neighbor and each woman from hers, objects of silver and gold.” (11:2) Commentators ponder this request. The nation was slated to travel to Sinai to receive the Torah. Why would they need Egyptian finery? One modern scholar, Michael Kanovsky, explains that asking

the Egyptians for aid represented a crucial step along the Israelites’ path to freedom. Later in the Torah, we will read in Leviticus (26:13): “I the Lord am your God who brought you out from the land of the Egyptians to be their slaves no more, who broke the bars of your yoke and made you walk erect.” Walking upright implies a sense of pride and self-worth. In other words, physical freedom would not have been enough had the people continued to think of themselves as slaves. In order for the Israelites to become a great nation, they needed to leave Egypt walking upright as proud people with a sense of importance and selfworth. Kanovsky notes: “The commandment to request items from the Egyptians was in order to upright the stance of the Children

of Israel. No longer were the Egyptians the masters and the Israelites the slaves. Rather, the people of Israel were now peers (with the Egyptians as they were instructed to ask) ‘man from his neighbor, and woman from her neighbor.’ … Now the Israelite would be required to walk with a head held high and ask — or even demand — the most expensive items in the house.” Kanovsky makes an important insight about asking for assistance. Asking for help requires a sense of self-worth and an understanding that both asking for and receiving assistance represents an understanding of worth and value. Far too often, we are “too proud” to ask for help from those around us. Whether it is in the workplace, with our families or even in just growing our spiritual selves, we constantly shy away from asking

Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham serves Congregation B’nai Amoona and is a member of the St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association, which coordinates the d’var Torah for the Jewish Light. others to help us on our journeys in our lives. We can even ask help from those with whom we have had previous conflicts, as the Israelites do with the Egyptians. Our parsha is a good reminder that we are only as good as those with whom we surround ourselves. We are stronger together! Shabbat Shalom!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Submit letters to letters@stljewishlight.org

All veterans should stand and be honored [Regarding the recent commentary, “Why I do not stand when fellow veterans are honored,” by Jim Winnerman (Dec. 15 Jewish Light)] I totally disagree with the writer’s stance that his service is not worthy of recognition. Mr. Winnerman, please stand and be recognized. I am often asked by fellow veterans whether their service “counts” because they served during peace time, or they were not in the combat zone, or their duty did not consist of offensive action. My answer is always an unqualified “yes”, their service does count. It doesn’t matter where you served, stateside or overseas, or what your assignment was. The fact is you served. You gave a portion of your life to the service of the United States in order for the rest of us to enjoy freedom and peace. Every duty has a purpose. Mr. Winnerman, your duty assignment contributed to the ultimate successful outcome of the mission. In the past several generations, fewer and fewer citizens serve in our volunteer military. There was a time when every family had at least one member in the service or knew someone in the service. That is no longer the case. Those who serve make our American lifestyle possible. Those who served and those who are currently serving stand and be recognized. It is important that preteens and teenagers around you see that you served to ensure they enjoy freedom and democracy and hopefully a few of them will want to emulate you and serve as well. I encourage every Jewish service member who is now serving or who has been honorably discharged to join the Jewish War Veterans (www.jwv.org) and help support those who have served, those who are serving, and their families. Ellis M. Frohman Major, United States Army Retired Commander, Post 644, St. Louis Jewish War Veterans

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Improving security without violating building codes Synagogues nationwide are modifying their buildings in an effort to secure them against threats. I am a retired architect and have seen changes local synagogues made in their buildings that result in building code violations. Synagogue administrators are typically unaware of the building codes incorporated into their building’s design. For example, what may seem like a minor change to a door could render the door in violation of the code and contribute to harm in an emergency. The synagogue could be liable if there is a tragedy caused by the non-compliant door. Synagogues would be wise to seek the professional services of an architect for all building modifications. With an understanding of the organization’s staffing and operations, the architect can develop solutions and implement the changes while adhering to the code. Homeland Security at the federal level and local organizations’ security personnel are sources of good advice. However, there are differences between security expertise vs. building code expertise. The latter is overseen by the municipality’s code inspectors as well as architects and engineers. Homeland Security’s focus is to protect occupants from security attacks and threats. Their expertise is not the complex building code requirements which are the result of decades of study of building disasters with loss of life. Improper planning can lead to unintended consequences. For example, a vendor might suggest a device to solve a very specific problem without taking into consideration the wider issues. The result can make the synagogue less secure. Architectural services determine the safest way to achieve the synagogue’s goals while incorporating security recommendations and code requirements into the building and site modifications. Susan Shender St. Louis

Reader responds to Rochester column An Open Letter to J. Martin Rochester: For an academic, your use of words is occasionally ambiguous. Some carry a heavy emotional impact rather than educating the readers. Your Dec. 15 op-ed in the Jewish Light is a good example. The obvious example is your persistent use of the words “insane” and “insanity” when it comes to America’s political culture. These words define a state of mental illness or repetitious behaviors expecting different results. The words add no intellectual value to a discussion about the American political culture. Your use of the labels “the right” and “the left” may be convenient for creating your desired mood, but it does little to define the values of the ideologies. Please allow me to offer my two very basic definitions. The core value of the right is rugged individualism. It elevates the needs of the individual above all else. The core value of the left is humanism. It elevates the connections and needs of the population above all else. The American political culture at any point in time is where these conflicting sets of moralities coexist. The American political culture is not “insane.” It is in conflict. It is a conflict over deeply held moralities. Blaming the other side for the conflict -- right or left -- is counterproductive to constructive conflict resolution. Blaming the other side creates the impression of victimization. Blaming and promoting victimization results in destructive conflict resolution. It results in more intense conflict. You wrote, “I think both sides of the political spectrum have contributed to insanity . . . However, I think the left is especially blameworthy…it is the left, not the right, that dominates our…government, media, academia and corporate board rooms.” I actually laughed out loud when I read you think leftists dominate corporate board rooms. I had this image of Karl Marx and Fidel Castro discussing shareholder value. But then I realized you

redesigned the anti-Semitic trope used against Jews for centuries. Just so you know, I was offended. Please consider Hillel’s wisdom, “If I am not for myself - who will be for me? If I am only for myself, who am I? If not now, when?” Gary Weiss Denver

Praising support of Israel I was very pleased to learn that ProIsrael America (PIA) has officially endorsed Congresswoman Ann Wagner. The goal of Pro-Israel America is to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Israel, primarily by helping to support the election of ProIsrael candidates to federal office. PIA’s executive director, Jeff Mendelsohn, released a statement explaining: “we are working hard to ensure that the 118th Congress reflects broad, bipartisan support for the U.S.-Israel relationship.” Rep. Wagner has a long history of supporting security assistance to Israel in her position on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. She recently sent a bipartisan letter with other members of Congress asking for $3.8 billion for security assistance to Israel including Iron Dome funding. She also went through the effort to personally testify in the Missouri senate in Jefferson City in favor of anti BDS legislation which passed the senate without a single vote against it. We are very fortunate to have a Congresswoman who is such a strong supporter of Israel representing us in Washington. Stuart Klamen St. Louis Submit letters to the editor to news@stljewishlight.org. Letters should be no longer than 250 and should include the writer’s name, municipality and a daytime phone number. The Light may edit letters for length or clarity.

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JEWISH LIGHT

OPINIONS

Tu Beshvat is an important holiday for postmoderns

January 5, 2022

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Rabbi Carnie Shalom Rose is the Rabbi Bernard Lipnick Senior Rabbinic Chair at Congregation B’nai Amoona.

nized by so many of us? I think this mystery has several layers. First, Tu BeShevat is not mentioned in the Torah. It is mentioned only later in the Mishnah (c. 200 CE) and, despite the fact that Judaism, as we know it today, is a rabbinic religion (established by the rabbinic sages), the fact that it is not mentioned in the Bible may have contributed to its relegation to a Tier 2 holiday in the minds of some Jews. Second, though the holiday is mentioned in the Mishnah, no specific ritual observances are mentioned in connection with this day. And as we all know, disembodied religion — religion sans ritual — has little if any ability to maintain viability. Finally, Tu BeShevat seems to have been observed most fastidiously by two groups of Jews: Sephardim and Kabbalists (mystics). And clearly, most of us are neither Sephardic nor are we initiates in the esoteric mystical traditions of our people. Hence, the holiday seems to have fallen out of favor, at least for the majority of Ashkenazi Diaspora Jews. Yet despite all these valid reasons to downplay Tu BeShevat, if we pause to reconsider this holiday and its focus on trees and what they have to teach humans, we might discover some tremendously valuable and spiritually uplifting meanings.

Two brief examples, which I hope, will whet your appetite for additional exploration: 1. The Rabbi of Ger taught: Tu BeShevat is a special time. It is the season when we are called upon to pay heed and provide care for the trees. We tend to them and hope they will imbibe and absorb the nutrients that we lovingly provide for them. So, too, is it a special time for the human to absorb the teachings of the Torah, which are nourishment to the soul. Tu BeShevat calls on us to open ourselves up anew to absorbing the waters of Torah and, in this way, become refreshed and renewed. 2. The Bialer Rebbe taught: The strength of the tree is in its roots. Without these roots, the tree cannot flourish; it cannot survive. So, too, it is for the Jewish people. We must have strong roots. And these roots bind us not only to the past, but also to one another. When together we celebrate Tu BeShevat, we join our roots to the roots of the primordial tree, the quarry from which all souls are hewn. As we grow and deepen as individuals and as an Am Kadosh (holy community), I pray that we will together merit to celebrate this beautiful and profound holiday with passion and fervor. May this be God’s will — and our own. Amen.

Summit showcases shared values, interests between U.S., Israel

State Sen. Steven Roberts, D-St. Louis, is minority whip of the Missouri Senate. In addition to his legislative duties, he manages his law firm and serves as a captain in the JAG Corps with the Missouri Air National Guard.

BY RABBI CARNIE SHALOM ROSE

Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach (z”l), my teacher and cousin, once said that it is quite easy to tell which are the most profound Jewish holidays. They are, he suggested, the ones that are observed by the smallest number of individuals. His statement is not only poignant, but it is also tremendously accurate, especially as it relates to Tu BeShevat (the New Year of Trees), which we will celebrate in just a few days. Sadly enough, for the most part, this day passes annually without much notice and without much recognition. Now, we might believe that the reason the observance of this day has disappeared from our individual and communal radar screens has something to do with the fact that it is anachronistic and antiquated. Maybe its messages are no longer relevant? Perhaps Tu Beshvat no longer speaks to us in the way it spoke to past generations of Jews? After all, we are living in postmodern times. We are “more evolved” and “more sophisticated.” We know far more about the world around us than our ancients could ever have hoped to know. But I think not. In fact, Tu BeShevat may be even more relevant today than ever before in our history. So why and how is it that Tu BeShevat goes unnoticed and unrecog-

BY STEVEN ROBERTS

Recently, I was honored to address the Israeli American Council (IAC) National Summit, the largest gathering of Israeli Americans in the country, in Hollywood, Fla. Notably, it was the first major Israeli and Jewish American conference since the pandemic, with more than 3,000 people from across the nation in attendance. I felt inspired by joining so many people committed to cooperation and the advancement of shared goals. At a welcome reception early in the summit, I had the pleasure of sitting next to Col. Golan Vach, commander of the famed Israel Defense Forces’ Search and Rescue Unit, which responded to the tragic condominium collapse in Surfside, Fla., last July. It was inspiring to learn about the unit’s heroic efforts, which marked the first time that the United States has allowed a foreign nation’s army to operate on American soil in a humanitarian mission. The experience was emblematic of the rest of my time at the conference, meeting passionate leaders dedicated to the historic friendship between the United States and Israel. The three-day conference included music, culture and engaging discussions. St. Louis was well-represented by a delegation of more than 20 local leaders, activists and students. Political discussions focused on the shared, strategic partnership between the U.S. and Israel as we confront the twin evils of antisemitism and terrorism together. I served as a featured panelist for a special forum entitled “Defending Israel is Defending Democracy,” along with Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson, a Republican, and South Carolina state Rep. Beth Bernstein, a Democrat. The forum was moderated by noted philanthropist and IAC board member Adam Milstein. My talk focused on how antisemitism and related hate crimes remain a serious threat in the U.S., and evidence that shows that this danger is growing among extremists on both the right and left. Specifically, we discussed the dangerous boycott, divestment and sanctions movement, which bases its assault on Israel and the Jewish people on a big lie and has unfortunately attracted support from so-called progressives. The BDS movement constitutes discrimination against Israel and its supporters based on national origin. Its hateful disinformation campaign constitutes a thinly veiled attempt to delegitimize, destabilize and eventually eliminate the State of Israel as the eternal homeland of the Jewish people. BDS applies a uniquely flawed standard against the only Jewish State, while ignoring critical issues elsewhere. Where is the BDS movement for China, where more than one million Muslims were put in concentration camps in Xinyang Province?

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The flawed and narrow perspective of the BDS movement is far different from historical protest movements that have sought racial justice, social change and human rights in America and around the world; far different from the causes of equity and justice behind which my fellow Democrats and I have historically aligned ourselves. During the panel, I also highlighted the longstanding and dynamic relationship between Israel and Missouri. As a state legislator, I have seen how Missouri continues to prosper from the U.S.-Israel relationship. Since 1996, Missouri exports to Israel have grown to more than $1.4 billion, with $54 million in manufactured goods in 2020 alone. Companies such as Boeing, Remington and Evraz Oregon Steel Mills, all based in St. Louis, provide crucial exports for the Israeli Defense Forces and keep thousands of Missourians employed. Additionally, cooperation between Missouri and Israel is much more than just economic. St. Louis University Medical School and Washington University are among the

recipients of grants from the Binational Science Foundation (BSF), which has promoted joint projects between American and Israeli researchers and scientists for more than 50 years. Today, more than $700 million has been awarded to U.S. institutions, funding more than 5,000 projects that have led to important scientific, medical and technological breakthroughs. These instrumental grants have allowed our Missouri-based universities and others around the country to accomplish incredible things. The friendships I made at the IAC Summit fortified my strong belief that the partnership between Israel and the U.S. is based on more than just shared strategic concerns. It is also based on shared values, values that are worth defending such as free and fair elections, a free press, freedom of speech, real equality, and inclusion for women, minorities and the LGBTQ community, and the hope that with God’s help, we can shape a future of peace and justice for all.

State Senator Steven Roberts (back row at center with members of the St. Louis delegation at the Israeli American Council National Summit.

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January 5, 2022

STL

FEATURES ARTS AND CULTURE

FOOD

HOLIDAYS

JEWISH LIGHT

stljewishlight.org

THE ARTS IN ST. LOUIS

The artistry of metalsmiths

LIFESTYLES

BY NANCY KRANZBERG

How would you describe St. Louis’ fashion style? I’d say St. Louis’ fashion style blends comfort and current trends.

I had always thought of our friends Laurie and Kevin Van Mondfrans as jewelers who worked with semi-precious stones and metal. They invited us to see their latest creations recently at the Midwest Metalsmiths Art Show, which was held in Webster Groves (it takes place annually, usually in mid-October). Oh, what a treat it was to start thinking and learning about metalsmiths and who they are and what they make. And what beautiful work we saw. I also went to our wonderful Craft Alliance, a not-for profit art center in St. Louis working to reveal the power of craft through bold programming, which uncovers craft’s unique qualities, its evolving role and its full potential for innovation. Craft — the making of objects in woods, metals, fibers, glass and clay — is both an ancient tradition and a site for innovation, adjusting to new materials and responding to the ever-changing human experience. I talked to Stefanie Kirkland, deputy director of the organization, and she said that St. Louis has a robust community of metalsmiths. “The term metalsmith often refers to artisans and craft persons who practice their craft in many different metals,” said Kirkland. “Jewelers often refer to their craft as metalsmithing, and many universities offer degrees in metalsmithing, jewelry, enameling and blacksmithing under the auspices of a fine arts program.” Wikipedia says a metalsmith is one who works with or has the knowledge and capacity of working with all metals. There are blacksmiths, brownsmiths, coppersmiths, goldsmiths, gunsmiths, and more. There are metalsmith organizations all over the country, and there are metalsmith magazines and metalsmith guilds galore. When I asked some of the folks participating in the metalsmith show about their work, I found that they all used the words artist and creativity. “At the heart of metalsmithing is art, it’s creating. It’s taking an idea and turning it into something tangible and beautiful,” said Laurie Van Mondfrans. Texturing the surface of the metal is often a part of the process for metalsmiths. This texturing is often used to embellish the work. Texturing can be achieved by hammering with special texturing hammers, hammering against a textured surface, engraving, etching and rolling metal sheets through rolling mills. Patricia McCoy-Feldmanis featured her beautiful work of cuttlebone cast jewelry. Cuttlebone casting is an ancient technique that has been used for many years to create jewelry designs. This type of casting uses the bones of a cuttlefish to produce a mold in which one can pour in liquified material in the casting process. Both McCoy-Feldmanis and Van Mondfrans were greatly influenced by teachers at Craft Alliance. Peggy Jacobsmeyer, whose work at the metalsmith show also caught my eye, explained: “I worked as an artist creating large-format framed wall pieces using glass and metal for decades before I started to make jewelry. Gradually, working on a smaller scale began to appeal to me. Creating jewelry is exactly the same as making art/sculpture as far as I’m concerned. It’s just smaller.” Of course, this could lead into the usual question—what is fine art and what is craft? Don’t worry. I won’t go there today. I know most of the works I saw at the metalsmith show knocked my eyes out and were objects of beauty no matter what you call them.

Do your Jewish values inform what you are doing at the Fashion Fund? One of the things I take to heart is not to embarrass or make people feel less than. I say this because with business and this particular industry, you can occasionally run into touchy situations. It can be competitive, and egos sometimes get the best of people.

For more of Nancy Kranzberg’s commentary, listen to KWMU (90.7) St. Louis on the Air the first Friday of each month at approximately 12:50 p.m. She also hosts a weekly Arts Interview podcast for KDHX (88.1), available at artsinterview.kdhxtra.org.

Monique and Jonathan Levy with their daughter, Rebecca.

Style & substance Monique Levy, Jewish head of the STL Fashion Fund talks about the economic impact of the fashion industry in the area BY ELLEN FUTTERMAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

T

alking fashion with Monique Levy is far from frivolous. While she notes that everyone must get dressed before leaving the house each day, she also is quick to point out that fashion is much more than what we put on our bodies to wear. According to the economic development group Alliance STL, the fashion industry contributes $3.3 billion a year to the St. Louis area economy. It employs tens of thousands of people and encompasses everything from textile and apparel brands to wholesalers, importers, designers, pattern cutters, sewers, manufacturers, retailers, marketers, and sales teams, among others. In other words, it’s serious business. In May, Levy, who is a member of Congregation B’nai Amoona, was named CEO of the Saint Louis Fashion Fund. The nonprofit, which was founded in 2014, is committed to economic development by working in collaboration with local and regional civic leaders. As Levy explains, the Fund’s mission is to help attract, retain and facilitate the growth of businesses within the fashion, retail and manufacturing industry. Levy’s 10-year goal as head of the Fashion Fund is to double the amount the fashion business contributes to the city coffers each year, boosting that number to more than $6 billion. And while that is certainly no small feat, she says she’s up to the task and is excited to bring new jobs and businesses here. A native of Jacksonville, Fla., Levy moved from Baltimore to St. Louis over four years ago with her husband Jonathan, who grew up here, and their daughter Rebecca, now 4 ½. Before coming to the Fashion Fund, she was director of development and operations for Gateway to Hope, a nonprofit that supports individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. She also has a law degree from St. Thomas School of Law in Miami. The Jewish Light recently caught up

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with Levy to talk about her new position, St. Louis as a fashion city, and why Judaism is meaningful to her. You’ve been in the job for a little more than six months. What have been your top goals and priorities? My top priority is to really focus the Fashion Fund on its stated mission and to be serious about this next endeavor. Economic development is business at its heart — it is networking, it is relationship building and it is doing both with the right people. The Fashion Fund needs to be strategic and demonstrate that we, as an organization, are more than capable of taking on this endeavor. To do that we have to get our ducks in order, we have to have our accounting squared up and we have to have policies and procedures in place. That is what I have been busy doing, and fundraising, of course. Can you talk about the clothes part of fashion and the business side of it and where the Fashion Fund intersects with both? Clothes are a commodity just like anything else we purchase. There is an industry-specific sector for each type of commodity, and ours is fashion. The difference with fashion is that most people assume it’s high-end, unattainable, and inaccessible and it only works in L.A. and New York. At the Fashion Fund, we try to look at fashion in the same way St. Louis has looked at other emerging industries, we want to do the exact same thing with fashion. You have to look at fashion for the business that it is, which is retail and manufacturing at its core, but truly it is much more than that. The second part is showing the community what we already have. It’s putting our businesses and entrepreneurs first, it’s shopping local, it’s highlighting what is happening in St. Louis currently, and how the fund helps connect those pieces. The fund is not the center point, the fund is the connector. It’s not about us but what we can do for the community. What effect has the pandemic had on the Fund and fashion in general?

The pandemic really affected fashion with regard to the supply chain. We’re feeling more of a trickle-down effect this year as opposed to last year. We are now seeing the backlog and it just bolsters the point that we need to reinvest in our communities and think about manufacturing domestically and what it means to buy local. As consumers, we have to be OK with a higher price point if we want things to be local. What is the advantage of having the Fashion Fund? It’s having that specific point of contact with someone who knows what you’re talking about and is willing to take your phone call and listen to you. The Fashion Fund serves as a trusted thought leader and as a conduit — in other words, we understand what you are going through. We understand you are serious about building your business. It’s making those connections and opening the doors for businesses and manufacturers so that they are more inclined to stake roots here. How would you describe your style and what makes good fashion? I love a good capsule wardrobe. I’m a big proponent of Rent the Runway and sustainable consumer practices. In terms of good fashion, I think it’s all about having confidence in wearing what you have on. I personally don’t do high-end labels. I’m much more about good fit than trends because in order to look good in your clothes, they must fit correctly!

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FEATURES

JEWISH LIGHT

AMY FENSTER BROWN

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Meet the new year, hopefully not like the old year BY AMY FENSTER BROWN

Well, hello there, 2022! We are so happy to see you, but we need to welcome you at arm’s length. You can understand that we are a little hesitant because last year we rolled out the red carpet for 2021, and it kind of did us wrong. It started off with promise, made a hard right turn Jan. 6, tricked us several times throughout the year, and then pulled a fast one at the very end with Betty White right before her 100th birthday. What a cruel finale. Zero out of 10 stars, 2021. A new year brings fresh possibility. Starting the calendar year anew seems to put us in a mindset of beginning with a clean slate. Do you think making New Year’s resolutions is helpful to get you working toward your goals, or a trap to put pressure on yourself to do the things you “should” or “shouldn’t” be doing? I’d say both. We start with good intentions and end up “shoulding” all over ourselves when we fall off track. Back to the shiny hopefulness of the New Year. I predict all sorts of great things over the next 12 months. I am not a psychic or scholar, so I have no basis or merit or special powers to know what I’m talking about. But

I once accurately predicted that my then-toddler would have a vicious meltdown when he found out what was for dinner. So I can kind of see into the future. I predict that this year, we will learn even more things we shouldn’t say at the risk of being offensive. I hear people lamenting about how they just can’t say certain words or phrases these days because someone will be offended. If only I could list them here. When you watch a blockbuster movie on a network or basic-cable station, off-color words are bleeped out and replaced with nicer words. It used to be pretty easy to figure out what the real words were, because most bad guys don’t yell, “Cut the sugar or I’ll forking kill you!” However, with so many more words and phrases being “canceled,” I’m having way more trouble figuring out what the actors originally said. Monthly columnist Amy Fenster Brown is married to Jeff and has two teenage sons, Davis and Leo. She volunteers for several Jewish not-for-profit groups. Fenster Brown is an Emmy Award-winning TV news writer and counts time with family and friends, talking and eating peanut butter among her hobbies.

Recent reports say we should replace our cloth masks with more protective KN95 masks. This leads me to predict some more changes in masks for 2022. Be on the lookout for masks with bold printed messages to keep others from standing too close, things like, “I can see into your soul” or, “I’m naturally gassy.” That’ll keep others six feet away, at least. We also will have masks with sensors so when people wear them improperly a warning will sound. In places where masks are encouraged or required, sirens will start blaring when one slips below a wearer’s nostrils. If it happens at the movies or synagogue, however, police lights will flash for a silent option to allow us to still hear the movie or the rabbi. Being boring becomes the new lifestyle trend. We had a taste of it in the original COVID lockdown. Puzzles, baking bread and doing house projects were the norm to keep us from getting bored. But then we embraced the boredom, and I think many of us miss it. I see a trend on the horizon in which we embrace the boredom and we all just chill out. Relaxing is the new to-do list. Peloton bikes will make a huge comeback. Not that they went that far away. The high-end exercise equipment had a blip in the stock market after (spoiler alert) “Sex and the City’s” Mr. Big met his demise on the “And Just Like That …” sequel. But

now that the #MeToo movement has been revived after the actor was accused of forcing several women into nonconsensual sex in the city, a reboot for Peloton seems realistic. The trend of famous people going into space will hit fever pitch. Lots of us non-Hollywood folks would like to be shot into the universe so we can be as far away from Earth as possible. Stars, they’re just like us. I predict the public will soon get to have a say in it. An observant TV producer will start a game show in which contestants get to choose which celebrities become makeshift astronauts. They’ll get to choose two actors who would be a buddy comedy dream team, or perhaps a romantic matchup of two celebrities set up on a date in orbit to bond without earthly distractions like paparazzi. Or gravity. This year, vaccines and boosters will be available on fast food drive-thru menus and delivered via services like Door Dash to encourage even more people to take part. Finally, scientists will discover what it is about “Saturday Night Live’s” Pete Davidson that allows him to bag some of Hollywood’s biggest babes. In a related story, this newspaper will receive several complaints about me using the word “bag” to describe Pete’s seemingly magical ability to date the most gorgeous women on the

JEWISH CELEBRITIES

Jewish writer/director Aaron Sorkin takes too many liberties in ‘Being the Ricardos’ BY NATE BLOOM SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

In 1951, “I Love Lucy” was the highest rated show on TV. It co-starred Lucille Ball and her real-life husband, Desi Arnaz, as her TV-husband. On Dec. 22, Amazon Prime began streaming a bio-pic about the couple, entitled “Being the Ricardos” (the couple’s characters’ last name). It was written and directed by AARON SORKIN, 60. The film has “crammed” three major crises the real Lucy and Desi faced into one dramatic week in 1951 (Desi’s infidelity; allegations that Lucy was a Communist; and how they would handle Lucy’s real-life pregnancy on TV.) The latter two crises actually happened over three years and Desi’s infidelity only ended when the couple split in 1960. Yes, this time frame takes liberties. But it ‘ain’t nothing’ compared with the way Sorkin depicts JESS OPPENHEIMER (1913-88), the only real-life Jewish character

who is a big character in the film. You would think, from the film, that Oppenheimer was “just” the producer of “I Love Lucy.” You would never know that he was a top comedy writer before he (1948) was hired by a radio show starring Lucille Ball. Oppenheimer’s funny scripts and character development turned the show into a hit. That radio show led CBS to offer Ball a TV show. Again, you’d never know, from the film, that Oppenheimer created the premise of “I Love Lucy” (band leader married to a funny housewife) and he gave the show its name. Oppenheimer never says anything funny in the film, so you never really “getit” that he was not just the show’s head producer—he was the show’s head comedy writer and he co-wrote all the scripts for years (with Bob Carroll, Jr. and Madelyn Pugh. These two writers are in the film, but they never say anything funny, either). Years ago, I talked to Oppenheimer’s son, GREGG OPPENHEIMER, now 70, after reading a detailed and funny autobi-

ography started by Jess and finished, after his death, by Gregg. The father Gregg loved and admired was not the dour Jess Oppenheimer that Sorkin created to fit his dramatic purposes. Also made-up is Ball’s dislike of JUDY HOLLIDAY (1921-65) based, supposedly, on jealousy. There’s a flashback scene in which Ball says that Holliday can only play only one role (a dumb blonde). Ball says this as she is being fired (1942) by her movie studio. However, Holliday’s first dumb blonde roles were in two back-to-back hit movies made much later (“Adam’s Rib” in 1949 and “Born Yesterday.” The latter earned Holliday the 1950 best actress Oscar). “The Ricardos” cast includes LINDA LAVIN, 84, as the “older” Madelyn Pugh and JOHN RUBENSTEIN, 75, the son of t he g reat pia n i st A RTHUR RUBENSTEIN, as the older Oppenheimer.  See CELEBRITIES on page 22

Aaron Sorkin (shown in a 2016 photo) wrote and directed ‘Being the Ricardos.’ PHOTO: DOMINIC DUSSEAULT/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

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‘Mean Girls’ comes to the Fox Theatre Feb. 15-27.

PHOTO: JENNY ANDERSON

2022 WINTER

ARTS GUIDE BY PATRICIA CORRIGAN | SPECIAL TO THE LIGHT

T

he weather outside may be frightful — or unseasonably delightful — but either way, the cultural heart of the St. Louis arts scene beats on through the winter months and well into spring. Music (all sorts), theater, dance, the visual arts and comedy all are part of the metropolitan area’s busy entertainment schedule over the next few months, and we’ll tell you where to get tickets. As spring flower aficionados, we’ll even alert you about how to find out what’s blooming when at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Wherever you go, before you head out, check with the venue regarding current COVID-19 protocols designed to keep everyone safe. Here are just some of the places to go, people to see (Elton John! Laura Benanti! Rob Schneider! Paula Poundstone!) and things to do.

JANUARY It’s good to be king, although two characters in Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera “The Gondoliers” aren’t sure which of them may rightfully claim the crown. Winter Opera St. Louis reveals all in performances Jan. 15-16 at the KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER. Tickets range from $35-$55; see winteroperastl.org/performances. Back on stage at last, the New Jewish Theatre opens its season with Neil Simon’s “Laughter on the 23rd Floor,” a rollicking reminiscence of the playwright’s experience as a staff writer on Sid Caesar’s “Your Show of Shows.” See it Jan. 20-Feb. 6 at the Jewish Community Center’s Wool Studio Theater in the STAENBERG FAMILY COMPLEX. Tickets for matinee or evening performances range from $54$62, available at bit.ly/3pQDsVA. Spend “An Evening with Tony Winner Laura Benanti” at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at THE SHELDON. Benanti’s performance is a benefit for the Cabaret Project of St.

The New Jewish Theatre will open its season with Neil Simon’s ‘Laughter on the 23rd Floor.’ Above is a cast photo from NJT’s 2010 production of the play. Louis. Tickets to the “gala” part are $200; individual concert tickets are $65. See bit. ly/32JOumQ. Four actors deftly play more than 150 roles in “The 39 Steps,” a fast-paced comedic thriller “packed with intrigue, international danger and old-fashioned romance.” See it Jan. 21-Feb. 13 at the REPERTORY THEATRE OF ST. LOUIS. For performance times and prices, see repstl.org/.

Laura Benanti

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THE 2022 WINTER ARTS GUIDE IS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF:

A collaboration of talents pays homage to the heritage of jazz music through movement and stories. Jazz St. Louis

performs each of three sections of Duke Ellington’s jazz suite “Black, Brown and Beige,” which will be interspersed with live monologues by three actors of the Black Rep. The music and spoken word sections will be paired with original choreography performed by the Big Muddy dancers as a visual representation of both celebration and struggle. See it Jan. 28-29 at THE GRANDEL THEATRE. Tickets, ranging from $25-$45, are available at bit. ly/3eLAlrB. Continued on page 16

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we’re saving a seat for you 21|22 season jan 21-feb 13 LORETTO-HILTON CENTER

feb 11-mar 6 BERGES THEATRE AT COCA

mar 18-APR 10 LORETTO-HILTON CENTER

GET TICKETS AT repstl.org | 314-968-4925

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Dance St. Louis presents ‘Tango Argentina’ Feb. 5 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center. PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMI MUSIC LLC

FEBRUARY

at her school, better known as “The Plastics,” might be harder to tame than the wild animals back home. Tickets, ranging from $29 to $125, are available at the Fox box office as well as www.fabulousfox. com.

Sensuous music and movement come together when Dance St. Louis brings Tango Argentina to the TOUHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER on the campus of the University of Missouri-St. Louis on Feb. 5. Eight dancers and a quartet of musicians explore tango through choreography and improvised elements. Tickets range from $40 to $65 and are available at bit.ly/32RhAjT. Children ages 5 and up (and their families) will enjoy Metro Theater Company’s production of “Last Stop on Market Street” on Feb. 6-27 at the GRANDEL THEATRE. The show is “a Motown/hip-hop musical adaptation” of the picture book, which was awarded a Newbery Medal. Tickets cost $20-$36; see bit.ly/31l8knI. Gotta dance? You’ll want to see “Dancing with the Stars – Live Tour 2022” at 8 p.m. Feb. 9 at the STIFEL THEATRE. This new show features favorite performers from the TV series dancing the Cha Cha, Foxtrot, Salsa, Tango and more. Tickets cost $36.50$76.50. See bit.ly/348vLla.

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Have issues? So does Rob Schneider, standup comic, actor and “Saturday Night Live” veteran. For details, attend his “I Have Issues” show at 8 p.m. Feb. 18 at THE FACTORY in Chesterfield. Tickets range from $35-$59. See bit.ly/3sQwTnW.

Comedian and actor Rob Schneider visits The Factory in Chesterfield on Feb. 18. We know their wrath and it isn’t nice. “Mean Girls,” the musical, comes to the FOX THEATRE Feb. 15-27. The story centers on a high school teen who moves to suburban Illinois from the African savanna, only to find that the popular girls

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra invites families to “Peter and the Wolf,” a “symphonic adventure” in Sergei Prokofiev’s beloved work in which each character in the musical fairy tale is represented by a different instrument. See it at 3 p.m. Feb. 20 at POWELL SYMPHONY HALL. Tickets range from $12-$19. Visit slso.org for tickets or more information. More than 90 examples — including one rendered in oil on lapis lazuli — by 58 artists make up “Paintings on Stone: Science and the Sacred 1530–1800,” on display Feb. 20–May 15 at the ST. LOUIS ART MUSEUM. Tickets cost $12 for

adults, $10 for seniors and students and $6 for children 6-12. For details, see bit. ly/3EPJJoW.

MARCH Based on a novel from 1580 (no kidding!) and set to the music of the iconic 1980s all-girl rock band the Go-Go’s, “Head Over Heels,” a subversive love story, follows the escapades of a royal family who set out on a journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction. Along the way, they discover that the key to their realm’s survival lies within each of their hearts, though not always in a way they expect. Produced by New Line Theatre at the MARCELLE THEATRE in Grand Center from March 3-26, tickets, from $20 to $30, are available by calling MetroTix at 314534-1111 or visiting the Fox Theatre box office or metrotix.com. Gather up the kids (or grandkids) and head to the FOX THEATRE for a short run March 8-10 of “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory,” a musical based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book. Tickets cost $32-$90. For more information, go to fabulousfox.com/ events.

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The Fox Theatre presents ‘Hamilton’ April 12-May 15. Pictured here is the 2018 Philip National Tour - Elijah Malcomb, Joseph Morales, Kyle Scatliffe, and Fergie L. Philippe. PHOTO: JOAN MARCUS 2018

that will includes Tucka, Calvin Richardson, Pokey Bear, Chick Rodgers, Nellie Tiger Travis and Sir Charles Jones. Tickets range from $59-$125; see bit. ly/3sZrmeZ.

Blues musician Calvin Richardson will perform at the 14th annual Gateway Blues Festival at Stifel Theatre on March 19. Also at the FOX THEATRE just days later, Ben Platt will perform at 8 p.m. March 16, singing songs from his new album “Reverie.” (Maybe you saw him in “Dear Evan Hansen?”) Platt is bringing along crooner Jake Wesley Rogers, who was born in Springfield, Mo. Tickets range from $49.50-$125. See fabulousfox.com. The 14th annual Gateway Blues Festival will fill the stage at 7 p.m. March 19 at the STIFEL THEATRE, featuring “a blues honor roll of performers and legends alike”

Finally, something old hippies can get excited about. Graham Nash, formerly of the Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash (and sometimes Young), brings his songs and stories to THE PAGEANT in a rescheduled 2020 concert (thanks for nothing, COVID) at 8 p.m. March 23. Tickets are $42.50 and $52.50 and can be purchased at the venue’s box office or at the bit.ly/3pPcE8c. In celebration of the power, we must survive challenging times. New Jewish Theatre presents “Every Brilliant Thing,” which will remind us all to practice gratitude. The play is onstage March 24-April 10 at the Jewish Community Center’s Wool Studio Theater in the STAENBERG FAMILY COMPLEX. Tickets for matinee or evening performances range from $54-$62, available at bit.ly/3pS668E.

ENTERPRISE CENTER at 8 p.m. March 30. Find tickets ranging from $263 to astronomical (verified resale tickets that can go for upwards of $2,000) at ticketmaster.com.

Puccini’s music of love and betrayal soars in “Madama Butterfly,” presented by Winter Opera Saint Louis March 25 and 27 at the KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER. Tickets range from $35$55. See winteroperastl.org/ performances/.

The MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN showcases spring flowers beautifully, and now’s the time to start checking missouribotanicalgarden.org for information on extended hours. Expect postings from late March through May to learn when to see cherry blossoms, magnolias, tulips and iris.

Elton John will bring his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour to the

APRIL Comedian/actor and “SNL” alum David Spade goes to work at THE FACTORY on April 2, unleashing his unique brand of standup on his “Catch Me Inside” tour at 7 p.m. Tickets, starting at $45, are available at ticketmaster.com. Graham Nash plays The Pageant on March 23.

Continued on following page

GILBERT & SULLIVAN

Sung in English with English supertitles

Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 7:30pm Sunday, January 16, 2022 at 2:00pm Kirkwood Performing Arts Center 210 E. Monroe Ave. Kirkwood, MO 63122

Gary Moss Duke of Plaza-Toro

Angela Christine Smith Duchess of Plaza-Toro

314-865-0038

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Dario Salvi Conductor

John Stephens Director

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Don’t throw away your shot — see the national tour of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical “Hamilton” on April 12-May 15 at the FOX THEATRE. (Already seen it? OK, but is once really enough?) Tickets cost $70-$199. See fabulousfox.com/events for details.

posted at bit.ly/3mOR2qA — and you can be next.

Performing since age 11, Ana Vidović brings her special talent to THE ETHICAL SOCIETY at 8 p.m. April 16, presented by St. Louis Classical Guitar. Tickets cost $34-$39. More than 27 million people have watched the video of the international star

SYMPHONY HALL, featuring the music of Jessie Montgomery, Claude Debussy and Ralph Vaughan Williams. Tickets range from $15-$93. For details, see slso. org.

Join us for the best in jazz, folk, 2021 – 2022 SEASON

the perfect acoustics of The Sheldon!

Paula Poundstone, one of the country’s preeminent comedians, promises to bring laughter into your life when she performs at 8 p.m. April 30 at THE SHELDON. Tickets cost $40-$45. Read more at bit. ly/3zq13Qi.

MAY

DhakhaBrakha

Heather Headley

Flamenco Vivo

Watkins Family Hour

Anita Jackson

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BELOW: Justin Bieber’s Justice Tour comes to Enterprise Center April 25.

Soak up the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s concert “From the Sea to the Stars” on April 30-May 1 at POWELL

Single Tickets on Sale Now!

Dianne Reeves

JEWISH LIGHT

LEFT: Comedian Paula Poundstone performs at The Sheldon on April 30.

Justin Bieber’s rescheduled (from July 2021) Justice Tour comes to the ENTERPRISE CENTER at 7:30 p.m. April 25 with special guests Jaden, Eddie Benjamin & ¿TÉO? Tickets start at $59.50 and go to $199.50. They can be gotten at bit.ly/3ERTy5J.

classical, world music and more in

STL

Rosanne Cash

Drew & Ellie Holcomb

Femi Kuti

and much more! Visit TheSheldon.org or call MetroTix at 314.534.1111

The Black Rep presents “Jitney,” August Wilson’s first play in his 10-play cycle of 10 decades of history in Pittsburgh. Set in the 1970s in the midst of urban renewal the story follows a group of men who make a living driving makeshift gypsy cabs as they navigate love as fathers and sons, loss and hope and, ultimately, community. The production runs from May 11-29 at EDISON THEATRE on the campus of Washington University. Tickets are $50 with discounts for seniors and students. To purchase them and for more information, go to theblackrep.org. The legendary Nitty Gritty Dirt Band will display its signature country rock sounds at 6 p.m. May 21 at the outdoor CHESTERFIELD AMPHITHEATER. Tickets cost $35-$99. See bit.ly/3mS8Hhe. “Carmen.” The title alone evokes memories of Georges Bizet’s marvelous score, and you can see the riveting love story play out May 21-June 25 at Opera Theatre of St. Louis’ production at the LORETTO HILTON CENTER. Tickets cost $$25-$135. See opera-stl.org/eventlistings. It isn’t often that a highly anticipated show stops in St. Louis before heading to Broadway, but that’s the case with “The Karate Kid,” whose pre-Broadway debut kicks off the season at Stages St. Louis

May 25 through June 26 at the KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER. This new musical tells the story of Daniel LaRusso, who finds trouble with a group of cruel and harassing classmates. To defend himself, Daniel begins training with a reclusive handyman who just happens to be an expert martial artist. What he learns, though, is that fighting is done with the head and the heart, not the fists. More information about single tickets, which go on sale April 4, can be found at stagesstlouis.org. You have seven (count ’em, seven) opportunities to hear the Manhattan Transfer perform May 25-29 at THE HAROLD AND DOROTHY STEWARD CENTER FOR JAZZ (formerly Jazz at the Bistro). The legendary quartet known for its pop and jazz hits has been awarded 10 Grammy Awards out of 20 nominations and has been inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. Tickets cost $10-$61. See bit.ly/3FS8zpo. Amid musical performances and food booths, more than 60 artists will sell their work at the Schlafly Art Outside Festival, a three-day, family friendly event held May 27-29 at SCHLAFLY BOTTLEWORKS in Maplewood. Shop for appealing gifts for brides, grooms, grads and dads. For times and more information, see bit.ly/32Tv9PQ. DANCE ST. LOUIS brings its 14th annual Emerson Spring to Dance Festival 2022 to the TOUHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER on the campus of UMSL on May 27-29. Eighteen nationally renowned professional dance companies will perform over three days in the 1,500-seat Anheuser-Busch Performance Hall. Tickets will be available at MetroTix.com when they go on sale later this year. Editor-In-Chief Ellen Futterman contributed some information to this story.

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BRODSKY-KOOTMAN ENGAGEMENT Sara Brodsky, daughter of Andrea and Randy Brodsky of St. Louis, and Jason Kootman, son of Marc and Cheryl Kootman of St. Louis, have announced their engagement. Sara is the granddaughter of Carl Golder and the late Anita Golder, and the late Rose Brodsky of St. Louis. Sara earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Bradley University. She works at Barnes Jewish Hospital as an Intensive Care Unit Nurse. She is currently working on her master’s degree, graduating in December 2022 with her MSN to be a Nurse

Practitioner. Jason is the grandson of Florence Kootman and the late Phillip Kootman, the late Arnold Fram and the late Betty Fram. Jason earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Missouri Columbia and currently works within his family-owned scrap metal business at Trimarc Metals. Jason proposed to Sara over Thanksgiving weekend on the beach in Turks and Caicos Islands. They are planning a spring 2023 wedding.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BELLA BABY PHOTOGRAPHY

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT: LORY ISABELLE STEIN Michael and Amanda Stein of St. Louis would like to announce the birth of their daughter, Lory Isabelle Stein, on Nov. 19, 2021 at Missouri Baptist Hospital. Lory is the granddaughter of Michael and Diane Packman, and Bob and Rosalie Stein, all of St. Louis. She is the great-granddaughter of Irene and the late Ralph Stein of Vancouver, Canada; the late Ida and William Radman of St. Louis; the late Aaron and Lory Fadem of St. Louis; and the late Betty Packman of St. Louis.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANNING AVENUE

MUROV-SNOW WEDDING Jonah Samuel Murov and Amanda Brooke Snow were married Oct. 10, 2021 at Beth Emeth Bais Yehuda Synagogue in Toronto, where Rabbi Howard Morrison officiated. Jonah is the son of Hedy Ehrlich and Barry Murov of Clayton. He is the grandson of the late Norman and the late Lillian Ehrlich of St. Louis; and the late Joseph and the late Vivian Murov of Shreveport, La. Amanda is the daughter of Susan and Allan Snow of Toronto. She is the granddaughter of the late Mina and the late Majer Snow; and Lillian and the late Irving Barmack, all of Toronto. Attendants were siblings and siblings-in-law of the bride and groom: Kevin Snow and Alexi Millman, Jason and Melissa Snow, Zack Snow, Ike Murov and Kristin Carey, and Nina Murov. Ezri Snow, niece of the bride, served as flower girl. Riley Snow, nephew of the bride, served as ring bearer. The couple met on JSwipe when they were both living and working in New York City. Jonah and Amanda now reside in Chicago.

DECEMBER TRIBUTES IN MEMORY OF MR. & MRS. SAMUEL STEINHAUER - Jane Steinhauer HARRIET G. DUNSKI - Neil Dunski SANFORD KUSMER - Linda Kusmer HAROLD SCHNEIDER “To Adam: “I’m sad for the loss of your grandfather. What a good man he was. May his memory be a blessing.” - Betsy Schmidt RUTH KLEM “To Rob and Deanna: “In memory of your mother” - Diana Rothbarth -

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IN HONOR OF CAROLYN SATZ “Mazel tov on joining the ranks of the Unsung Hereos. Hope to congratulate you in person in 2022!!” - Ellen Horwitz ARTHUR LITZ’S 99TH BIRTHDAY “Mazel on #99” - Robert Litz MICHAEL & BARBARA NEWMARK “Thanks for a wonderful evening. You are the best.” - Diana Schmidt ELLEN FUTTERMAN - Matthew & Jill Powell -

MARALEANA (MUTZIE) SALIT “I love you Mutzie. Always your friend, Anabel” - Anabel O’Bryan JASON GREENFIELD “Speedy recovery Jason” - Suzan Laycob RHONNIE GOLDFADER “Happy 70th Birthday!” - Dan & Melanie Winograd ALICE HANDELMAN “Congratulations on the well-deserved Press Club’s Journalism Award.” - Diana Rothbarth -

ALICE HANDELMAN “Congratulations on the Alice Handelman Scholarship Fund for Feature Writing. Mazel Tov! Love, Janie” - Janie Roodman Weiss ROBERT DIAMOND “Old Friend” - Arthur Litz ANITA LANDER “Great mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law!” - Cindy & John Wallach BETHE GROWE “In appreciation of all your work” - Betsy & Spencer Garland -

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OBITUARIES

OBITUARY NOTICES UPDATED DAILY AT STLJEWISHLIGHT.ORG/OBITUARIES

ROSALIE T. BARNES (nee Harris), December 20, 2021 Beloved wife of the late Gerald Barnes; beloved daughter of Albert and Libby Harris; dear mother and mother-in-law of Carolyn Thoele (the late John), Sheri Ries (Kurt) and Michael Barnes (Rita); dear grandmother of Aaron Thoele (Jen), Holly Spotz (Ryan), Kyle Ries (Angela), Kristin Jimenez (Jeremy), Todd Ries, Jeremy, Lindsey and Jack Barnes; dear greatgrandmother of Carson, Stella and Pierce Spotz, William Thoele, Joel Ries, Levi and Miles Jimenez; dear sister of Marlene Harris; our dear aunt, cousin, and friend. Beloved daughter of Albert and Libby Harris. Private services were held. Memorial contributions to the charity of your choice. Berger Memorial Service CARRIE LYNN BROWN Carrie, beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend to many passed away at her home on Sunday, December 19, 2021 in Thornton, CO. To many, Carrie was also known affectionately as Kiki. Carrie was born at Jewish Hospital on October 24, 1970, in St Louis. Carrie began school at Parkway Ross Elementary and went on to Parkway North High School, graduating in 1989. Carrie attended Maryville University graduating with a degree in biology. Carrie married Jason Thorpe of Rolla, MO on February 1, 2005, in the Bahamas. Together they brought into the world two lovely daughters, Piper Lynn and Presley Rose. They moved in July 2012 to Thornton, CO. Piper, now age 14 attends Horizon High School and Presley age 12, attends Century Middle School. During Carrie’s years in Colorado, she and her daughters spent a lot of time with family and friends. Carrie’s focal points were her mother Susan Brown, (who moved to Colorado to be near both her daughters), her sister Holly Beth Murray, her husband Greg and their daughters Mackenzie Rose and Stella Jean. Carrie worked nearly four years at Adams 12 School District and developed a new sphere of friends and coworkers. Carrie leaves a legacy of love, wonderful memories and two beautiful daughters. Beloved daughter of Susan Brown (Wertheimer) and father Paul “Buddy” Brown (deceased), cherished sister of Holly Beth Brown, sister-inlaw of Greg Murray, loving aunt of Mackenzie Rose and Stella Jean. She also is survived by Carrie’s daughter’s grandparents, Harold and Loretta Thorpe of Rolla, MO, Aunt Tracy and husband Matt Jenkins and sons Logan and Ty

also of Rolla, MO. Carrie is also survived by Uncle Harvey and Aunt Edith (deceased) Brown and her many cousins from the Brown, Brasch and Wertheimer families. A Celebration of Life was held for family, friends, and Adams 12 School District colleagues at the home of Holly and Greg Murray of Broomfield on Dec. 27, 2021. A Final Celebration of Life service was held Jan. 2, 2022, at Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Boulevard, followed by burial at Bellerive Gardens Cemetery, 740 N Mason Road. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service M. SUSAN CARLSON passed away on December 30, 2021, at the age of 72. Beloved wife of Gerry Greiman for 39 years; dear mother of David Carlson Greiman and Nora Carlson Greiman (James Lange); dear sister of the late Jeff Carlson, the late Greg (Diane) Carlson and Steve (Tina) Carlson; our dear aunt, great aunt, sister-in-law; cousin and friend to many. Susan was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on November 2, 1949, and grew up on the family farm outside Waverly, Nebraska. She graduated from Cottey College (which later conferred its Distinguished Alumni Award on her) and the University of Nebraska, taught high school for a year, and then earned her law degree from the University of Nebraska School of Law. Following Law School, Susan served as a Law Clerk for the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in St. Louis, where she met Gerry. After her Clerkship, Susan moved to Washington, D.C., where she spent two years as a litigator for a private law firm and six years as a Trial Attorney with the United States Department of Justice, including a six-month stint in Guam. Susan, along with Gerry, David and Nora, returned to St. Louis in 1986, and Susan worked as a full-time Assistant and Associate Visiting Professor at the Washington University School of Law from 1987 to 1994, teaching litigation and alternative dispute resolution in the clinical law program. During her time at Washington University, Susan also spent several weeks as a Lecturer at Sichuan University School of Law in China. While at Washington University, Susan served as a mentor and role model to many women law students; the Law School had only a handful of women faculty members at the time. Susan later was a founding member of Van Amburg, Chackes, Carlson & Spritzer, and spent many years practicing law in St. Louis, representing clients in various types of civil litigation, including civil rights, clergy abuse matters and discrimination cases. In 2010, Susan had the honor of being elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, where she served from 2011 to 2013.

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Families may submit an obituary for a loved one through the funeral home they work with or by using a form on the Jewish Light’s website: stljewishlight.org/submit-obituary For assistance with placing an obituary, please email news@stljewishlight.org or call 314-743-3665.

Susan also was active in community activities, serving as a Trustee of the St. Louis Metropolitan Sewer District; President of the Missouri Women’s Political Caucus; President and Board member of the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri; President and Board Member of Missouri NARAL; Democratic Committeewoman for Hadley Township; National Board Member of the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri; and Board Member of the University City Educational Fund. Susan was a long-time member of Central Reform Congregation. Susan loved her family, travel, reading, lawyering, politics, the beach and watching golf. She uniquely combined smarts, spunk and compassion. Her constant advice to her children was Be Smart, Have Fun. Susan made a difference in the world and will be missed. A funeral service was held Jan. 3 at Central Reform Congregation, followed by interment at New Mt. Sinai Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to make a tribute in Susan’s honor consider a gift to the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri or an organization of their choice. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel. com for more information. Berger Memorial Service ROBERT J. DIAMOND, December 25, 2021 Beloved husband of the late Doris Ginsberg Diamond; dear father and father-in-law of Melissa Thurmond and Benjamin Diamond (Jennifer); dear grandfather of Maxwell and Cooper; dear brother of the late Marvin Diamond and the late Edwin Diamond; our dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many. A graveside service was held Dec. 30 at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions preferred to the charity of your choice. Berger Memorial Service BRYAN FITTER, December 29, 2021 Passed away at the age of 61; Beloved son of Howard and Bonita Fitter; dear brother and brother-in-law of Amy (Fitter) & Mickey Suhl; Grandson of the late Herman and Gertrude Fitter and of the late Alfred and Pearl Altman; a friend to many. Bryan made a career in the food services industry as well as maintaining a car detailing service on the side. Bryan will be remembered for his warm heart, kind and caring ways, his desire to help others, and the love of family and friends. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Jan. 6, 3:30 p.m. at the Berger Memorial Chapel 9430 Olive Blvd. St. Louis, Mo. 63132. Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service DR. STAN FRAGER, 82, of Louisville, passed away Saturday, December 25, 2021 after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, the former Patty Wilson; daughter, Sarah; son, Alfred Joshua; sister, Maris Berg (the late Dr. Edward; uncle, Harry Samuels (Flora); sister-in-law, Leslie Wilson; brother-in-law, Gary Wilson; nephews, Danny Berg, Michael Berg, Chris Wilson and Andrew Wilson; niece, Sarah Porter; hundreds of adopted scouts; and a host of friends. Stanley Frager was born in St. Louis on April 23, 1939, the son of Alfred Havram and Rose Samuels Frager. Dr. Frager was a proud graduate of the University City High School Class of 1957, where he was the leader of a popular jazz band. He also began his lifetime career as a Boy Scout In St. Louis where he became an Eagle Scout. Classmate Irl Solomon has “fond memories of Stan, whose jazz band provided the sound track of our high school days.” Classmate Ron Zetcher remembers, “Stan, a talented guy and a true friend.” Dr. Stan was Professor Emeritus at the Kent

School of Social Work, University of Louisville; a practicing Clinical Psychologist; Sports Psychologist; Radio Talk Show Host; Author; Professional Speaker; and Scoutmaster Emeritus, Troop 30, The Temple. Services were held Dec. 29 at The Temple, 5101 US Hwy 42, where Rabbi David Ariel-Joel officiated; burial followed at The Temple Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to The Temple Brotherhood, 5101 US Hwy 42, Louisville, KY 40241 or to the Colon Cancer Prevention Project, 1640 Lyndon Farm Ct #108, Louisville, KY 40223. www.meyerfuneral.com DAVID R. GELLER, December 25, 2021 Dear father and father-in-law of Bradley Geller of St. Louis, Cynthia Arnold of Cave Creek, AZ, and Eric Geller of Los Angeles; dear grandfather of Channing Blake Arnold of Scottsdale, AZ and Chase Ellsworth Arnold of Scottsdale, AZ; dear brother and brother-in-law of Ruth Mariam (the late Al “Sonny”); father-in-law of Thomas C. Arnold; dear uncle, great uncle, cousin and friend to many including: Allen Mariam (Sharon), Wendye Jansen (Dan), Dena Miller (Gary), Neal and Brent Sokol and families; Steve Heligman (Sue), Rusty Geller and family, the late Jeanette Block (Harold), Allen Block (Jan) and family, Trudi Young (Steve) and family, the late Lou and Phil Manik and family, The Don Ko family, the late Bobbi Weiss (Harvey), the late Pete Karibian, the late Ray Sotier, the late Mike Theodore, the late Norman Leventhall. A graveside service was held Dec. 27 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 7550 Olive Boulevard. Please visit www.Bergermemorialchapel.com for Live Stream details. Memorial contributions are preferred to the charity of your choice. Berger Memorial Service JANET RAE GOLDENBERG, August 4, 1949 December 31, 2021 Janet, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, ‘Grandma’, niece, cousin, and friend to many passed away Friday December 31, 2021. After graduating from University City High in 1968, Janet proudly joined the US Military. Janet continued her love of service by becoming a Missouri Corrections Officer. During her time in corrections, Janet received an award for her bravery. Janet loved spending time with her family and friends. She established a love for fishing at an early age and even passed that joy on to her nephews. Harry Potter was a favorite of hers and some might even say she was a “Super Fan”. Janet leaves a legacy of love, integrity, and wonderful memories. Beloved daughter of the late Marvin Goldenberg and Shirley Goldenberg, cherished sister of Debra (Joel) Spigel, Malka (Roni) Lilienthal, Irvin (Jeanne) Goldenberg, Bayla (Michael) Paynor, Anna Rose (Victor) Tendler, Marilyn (Geoff) Lampel, and Larry Goldenberg. Janet is survived by her godsons: Guy (Galia) Lilienthal and their children, and Hershel (Emily) Tendler. Janet was known as Grandma to Guy’s children: Yanai, Talia Rivka, and Arbel Moshe A member of Nusach Hari B’nai Zion synagogue. A graveside service was held on Jan. 2, 2022 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Rd. 63017. Memorial contributions preferred to Nusach Hari B’nai Zion or a charity of your choice. Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service Obituaries continue on opposite page

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ANNIE GOODMAN, April 21, 1926-December 18, 2021. Beloved wife of the late Leon Goodman; dear mother and mother-in-law of Eleen Goodman and Samuel Goodman (Lili); dear grandmother of Lee Goodman, Michelle Feldman and Brian Feldman; dear greatgrandmother Ashlee Feldman; dear sister of the late Julius, late Aaron, late Abe and the late Joe Persky; dear sister-in-law, cousin and friend. Annie was ahead of her time and owned a confectionary shop downtown St. Louis. Subsequently she assisted in a daycare center. Children loved her and she loved caring for them. Annie was truly loved by all who knew her. She shall be missed. Private funeral services were held. Memorial contributions preferred to a charity of your choice. Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service DOLORES MARJORIE GROLLMAN, December 14, 2021. Beloved wife of the late Rabbi Jerome W. Grollman and the late Myron Moss; dear mother and mother-inlaw of Barbara Moss, Bette Hess (Julian), Patricia Moss and James Moss (Anne Offner); dear grandmother of Julie Hess (Joshua Saipe), Jennifer Hess (Jordan Himmel) and Abigail Moss; dear greatgrandmother of Henrietta Saipe , Magnolia Saipe and Jamie Himmel; dear sister of the late Elaine Fox and the late Marilyn Katz. Dear sisterin-law, aunt, great aunt, cousin and friend to many. Loving parent to the late Sara Grollman, Alan Grollman (Susan) and Lisa Grollman (Robert Ziemer); dear grandmother of Matthew Grollman, Scott Grollman (Ruthie), Lauren Ziemer and Martha Ziemer (Scott Sperling). Dolores enjoyed the Muny, the St. Louis Symphony and attending classes at Life Long Learning. Funeral services were held Dec. 16 at United Hebrew Congregation, 13788 Conway Road. Memorial contributions preferred to United Hebrew Congregation or the charity of your choice. Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service MAXINE GREENBERG HIRSCH, December 17, 2021 Beloved mother and mother-in-law of Matthew (late Brooke) Hirsch and Marni (Michael) Ward; dear grandmother of Olivia, Madison and Emme Hirsch, and Claire and Evan Ward; dear sister and sister-in-law of Martin (Pam) Greenberg, Anita (Howard) Tischler and Barb (William) Greenblatt; dear daughter of the late Melvin Greenberg and late Ruth Greenberg Brockman Weingart; dear aunt, cousin and friend to many. Maxine’s greatest pleasure in her last few years was the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, siblings, caregivers and friends. Despite the prolonged and debilitating illness that took so much from her, she insisted on taking in every moment she could, with grace, wit and perseverance. A funeral service was held on Tuesday, Dec. 21 at Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Blvd. Interment followed at Bellerive Gardens Cemetery, 740 N. Mason Rd. Memorial contributions can be made to Annie’s Hope, AddictionIsReal.org, or a charity of your choice. Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

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OBITUARIES As he would have put it: JONATHAN CRAIG LAPIN won his battle with eternity on December 15, 2021. Childhood excitement about NASA’s Apollo program triggered Jonathan’s lifelong fascination with space. By college, he couldn’t resist the urge to drop everything and drive all night with a friend to witness the first Space Shuttle launch. Within a few years, he joined McDonnellDouglas, where he had the opportunity to work on the first commercial shuttle payload. And 5 years later, shortly after the Challenger disaster, he landed a position at NASA in the training division. There, he helped build a shuttle cockpit simulator for training astronauts and testing flight systems. One contractor, deeply impressed, told him the simulator was “a national treasure”. He later worked on a variety of projects to support manned missions to the Moon and Mars, and never lost his love of space exploration. Except for never getting to space himself, he got to live his dreams. For the last 22 years, he also lived with the ravages of MS, which inexorably took away control of his body and caused him terrible pain. His growing disability forced him to retire from NASA in 2014. Though confined to a power wheelchair and extremely weak, he managed to stay involved in many projects – some space-related, some political. He generously shared his knowledge and wisdom with researchers, students, and educators. Jonathan was a kind, truly moral person who cared deeply about a future that he knew he would not see. He adored his young son, Hiro, and lived for the days they spent together. His greatest regret was that he would not be around to see Hiro grow up. His family, Hiro Lewis-Lapin (son), Ruby Lapin (mother), Donald Lapin and Carol Lapin Goodman (siblings), miss him already. We are profoundly grateful to his loyal and caring friends and the long-term home helpers who have made it possible for him to live in his own house on his own terms for so many years. Jonathan wanted his body donated for scientific purposes. The family plans to delay a memorial service until the weather and the pandemic situation are better. SALLY SEASONGOOD LEVY, December 26, 2021 Sally Levy (nee Sally Ann Seasongood) passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2021, at the age of 95. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, John D. Levy (d. 1987), her brother Lester Seasongood Jr., her granddaughter Catherine Vail Levy; her father Lester Seasongood, her mother Lucille Seegall Seasongood Shiffman; and her dear sister-inlaw Sue Seasongood. Sally left three adoring children and their spouses: John David Levy Jr. (Lucy), Diane Levy Jacobson (Paul) and Mont Seasongood Levy (Karen); seven grandchildren: Jonathon Levy (Sarah), David S Levy (Cheska), Nathaniel Jacobson (Jenny Kim), Benjamin Jacobson, Elizabeth GoodlaxsonLevy (Leah), and Joanna Kyger (Joseph); and eight greatgrandchildren: Cameron Jacobson, Zachary Levy, Emma Levy, Ryan Levy, Kate Levy, August Jacobson, Michael Levy, and Joseph Kyger; and a niece Laura Seasongood. Born in Detroit, Michigan in 1926 Sally moved to St. Louis as a child with her mother. At age 17 she met Johnnie and they married in July 1944. She loved to tell the story that he courted her to music from Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde. That launched their joint devotion into all things opera. In the early 1970’s, they were founding board members of Opera Theatre of St. Louis (OTSL). Sally delighted in her volunteer involvement in OTSL’s early years, including staffing the box office and cleaning apartments to ready them for visiting performers. She had a broad knowledge of opera, enjoying performances in St. Louis and around the world. She was a strong proponent of new operas and her lifetime impact on the opera world was recognized in 2008 with her receipt of Opera America’s National Opera Trustee Recognition Award Sally and Johnnie shared a love of friends,

January 5, 2022

OBITUARIES INDEX Brown, Carrie Lynn Carlson, M. Susan Diamond, Robert J. Fitter, Bryan Frager, Dr. Stan Geller, David R. Goldenberg, Janet Rae Goodman, Annie Grollman, Dolores Marjorie Hirsch, Maxine Greenberg

Lapin, Jonathan Craig Levy, Sally Seasongood Margulis, Lawrence (Larry) Reichman, Beverly D. “Bev” Schneider, Harold Lee Steinberg, David Eli Taber, Daryl Robert

family, music, boating, travel and wine. Sally was an avid reader and Jeopardy fan and enjoyed creating unique needlepoint works. She compiled many photo albums of adventures with family and friends that provide her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren a treasured record of a life well-lived. In addition to her lifetime work with OTSL, Sally was an active volunteer for several local and national organizations, including the American Jewish Committee, the Jewish Federation, the National Council of Jewish Women and was a board member of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and The Sheldon Arts Foundation. She was the recipient of several awards, including the 2017 Saint Louis Visionary Award and the Arts and Education Council’s Excellence in Philanthropy award in 2007. Sally was a generous donor, establishing the John D. Levy Master Class series at OTSL in Johnnie’s memory and later the Sally S. Levy and Family Fund for New Works. Her family would like to thank Markesha Simmons, who was a gentle and thoughtful companion to Sally in her last months. A funeral service was held Dec. 29 at Temple Emanuel, 12166 Conway Road. Private family interment. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to make a tribute in Sally’s honor consider a gift to Opera Theatre of St. Louis or an organization of their choice. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

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LAWRENCE (LARRY) MARGULIS, November 28, 2021 Beloved husband of the late Rosalyn (Roz) Chait Margulis and loving father of their four children: Scott, Howard, Jeffrey, and Cindy Margulis. Dear son of the late Lillian Kling Margulis and the late Nathan Margulis, dear brother and brother-in-law of Mildred (the late Morris) Lapidos, the late Isabelle (Jack) Finkelstein and the late Ada (the late Jake) Balk. Beloved son-inlaw of the late Sarah Brownstein Chait and the late Abraham Chait and brother-in-law of Marilyn (the late Martin) Chait Rosen and the late Marsha Chait Spak. Dear grandfather of Jennifer, Michelle, and David Margulis. Lt. Colonel Lawrence Margulis (Ret.) served in active duty as a Navigator in the United States Air Force in the 1950’s and was stationed at Dover Air Force Base, Scott Air Force Base, and Ellington Air Force Base, followed by years of service in the USAF Reserve prior to his military retirement. He was most proud of his military service in the U.S. Air Force, traveling around the world and had a lifelong love of flying and aviation and obtained private and commercial pilot licenses, and instrument and flight-instructor ratings. Larry graduated from Soldan High School and received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Washington University in St. Louis. He was integrally involved with the grocery and supermarket industry for many years as an owner of several supermarkets and in later years worked for Dierbergs Supermarkets in their corporate office, field operations, and stores. The funeral service and interment were private. The family would like to express special loving thanks to his personal homecare assistant Amy Olson over the last 2 years, as well as to the management and staff of Delmar Gardens Chesterfield for the kind and compassionate care they all gave Larry during his last years and final few months. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to a charity of your choice are appreciated. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

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1939 on a dance floor. Harold graduated as valedictorian and president of his Soldan High School class and, choosing closeness to family rather than a full scholarship to MIT, he enrolled at Washington University in St. Louis. Harold attended Washington U. year-round on special government war orders, graduating in 1943 at age 20, with degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering, again as valedictorian. Upon graduation, Harold joined the war effort as a radar and sonar repairman on the USS Tutuila where he climbed by net, mid-ocean, from his service ship to warships in need of repair. He never learned to swim. After the war, Harold embarked on a 40-year career with Monsanto where he became a trusted executive, serving as Chief Engineer and later focusing on continuous corporate improvement. After retiring from Monsanto, Harold dedicated more than full-time effort to becoming a maestro of the stock market through his late 90’s. Harold quietly worked head-down his entire life to the benefit of his family, friends and charities of importance to him. He never sought recognition or audience. Harold and Dorothy traveled the world, building a wealth of understanding and appreciation of world events along the way. Harold had a true interest in current events and was a lifelong learner who applied himself fully to every one of his life’s endeavors. Harold never knew a short-cut and held himself and others to tremendously high standards. He used his vacations to help in his father’s tailor shop; his own hands to double the size of his family home; his uncommon intellect to enhance those he encountered throughout his career; and his love of family to serve as a trusted patriarch. A graveside service was held Dec. 26 at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road. Memorial contributions preferred to The Scholarship Foundation or the charity of your choice. Berger Memorial Service

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BEVERLY D. “BEV” REICHMAN, December 21, 2021 Beloved wife of Steven Reichman; dear mother of Rachel D. Reichman; dear grandmother of Lili, Jack, Kate, Miran, Colin and Ben who are the children of Steven’s step-daughters, Tina Murtha and Colleen Sheley; dear sister of Sally Mechur and Carl Shoolman (Leanna Gipson); dear sister-inlaw of Melisse Reichman (Dave Eckwert); dear aunt, cousin and friend to so many. A graveside service was held Dec. 23 at New Mt. Sinai Cemetery, 8430 Gravois. Memorial contributions preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association. Berger Memorial Service HAROLD LEE SCHNEIDER, age 99, died December 22, 2021 surrounded by his family. Harold was the beloved husband of the recently deceased Dorothy Schneider. Their 75-year marriage (preceded by a 6-year courtship) was the foundation of an extraordinary family. Harold was the loving father of Barbara (the late Dr. Jeffrey) Pevnick, Kathy (Tom) Bearman, and Terry (Jamie) Schneider. He was the world’s best Grandpa to Joshua (Melissa Turai), Seth (Alex Prinstein), Ryan (Kathleen Doherty), and Justin Pevnick; Tim (Nicole) and Kelsey (Stephen Howard) Bearman; Abby (Alan Garelick) and Adam Schneider. He was an adoring G’PA to his great grandchildren, Lilah, Leo, Joah, Ivy, Emery, Corinne, Phoebe, Wynn, and Graham. Harold was the son of Benjamin and Ida Shapiro Schneider, brother of the late Lillian Busch, the late Bertha Schrenzel, the late Jerome Schneider and brother-in-law of the late Sam Kaufman and the late Ruth Sacks. Dorothy and Harold shared a fairytale love story that began in

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DAVID ELI STEINBERG, December 29, 2021. Beloved husband of Peggy S. Steinberg for 68 years. Dear father of Ellen (Graham) Moses and John (Victoria) Steinberg. Loving grandfather of William (Ashley) Moses and Emily (Ben) Boskoff, Hannah and Aaron Steinberg. Cherished great grandfather of Aliza Moses. Dear brother of Dorothy (the late Dr. Stanley) Maer and Paul (the late Bettye) Steinberg. Beloved brother-in-law of the late Ruth (the late Marvin) Engel and the late Joy (the late Lee) Silver. Dear uncle, cousin and friend. A graveside service was held Dec. 31 at B’nai Amoona Cemetery, 930 North and South Road. Contributions in David’s memory may be made to the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry, 10950 Schuetz Road, St. Louis, MO, 63146 or to the Alzheimer’s Association, 9370 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO, 63132. A Rindskopf-Roth Service DARYL ROBERT TABER, 71, of Boca Raton, Florida peacefully transitioned unexpectedly on December 10th 2021. Daryl was born and raised in University City. After graduating from The University of Oklahoma in 1972 with a marketing degree, Daryl began his own software development company and became a successful entrepreneur for over 43 years. Daryl was a beloved husband to Sheila for 44 years, dear Father to Andrew, and loving Grandfather to Abigail. Daryl was always there for his family anytime they needed him. Daryl was a kind soul who loved rock-n-roll music, the outdoors, gardening, and exotic plants. Daryl could build and fix anything, and always had new home projects underway. More than anything Daryl loved the gift of life, and his family. The world is empty without Daryl, he will be deeply missed. Contributions in Daryl’s name can be made to The Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research.

Celebrities: Golden Globes, ‘Don’t Look Up’ and ‘Good Sam’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 The Golden Globes awards ceremony takes place on Jan. 9. But it looks like nobody will broadcast the awards. Most nominees will boycott the awards. No doubt, some Jewish nominees will win. But will a win mean much? The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) hosts the ceremony and its 100-or so members (most aren’t real journalists) are the only awards voters. But movie studios worked with the HFPA because the Globes hyped ticket-sales. Then “everybody” ran away from the HPFA when it came out, last March, that the HFPA doesn’t have any black members. “Don’t Look Up” is a nominee for best film (comedy/musical) that just started streaming on Netflix. It’s a satirical sci-fiction film. Here’s the basic plot: Two low-level astronomers (Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence) must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of an approaching comet that will destroy our planet. “Don’t Look” is really a thinly disguised attack on those who deny climate change is happening. In “Don’t,” the sky is literally falling but all sorts of people, for various reasons, deny the science. Reviews are mixed, with many critics saying that the film makes some good points but is frequently disjointed. The big ensemble cast has been widely praised. JONAH HILL, 37, has a big part as the

Nicole Kidman stars as Lucille Ball in ‘Being the Ricardos,’ written and directed by Aaron Sorkin. PHOTO: GLEN WILSON/AMAZON STUDIOS

Chief of Staff to the President, who just happens to be his mother (Meryl Streep). TIMOTHEE CHALAMET, 25, SARAH SILVERMAN, 51, LIEV SCHREIBER, 54, and RON PERLMAN, 71, appear in much smaller roles. Adam McKay (“Anchorman”) directed and co-write the film. (His children were raised in the Jewish faith of his wife,

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SHAARE EMETH

ABOVE LEFT, ABOVE RIGHT AND AT RIGHT: Over 280 volunteers gathered at Congregation Shaare Emeth on Nov. 21 to participate in the congregation’s second annual Gathering in Gratitude pre-Thanksgiving program. The program, which helped support twelve local social service agencies including the Harvey Kornblum Food Pantry, the Humane Society of St. Louis, the International Institute of St. Louis, Room at the Inn, The Bennett Project, Doorways, and Winter Patrol. Volunteers packed 46 boxes of food, created 140 care bags for the unhoused, made 69 Thanksgiving dinners, created over 100 dog treats and toys and more.

HANUKKAH HULLABALOO

Mix a little folk rock, country and reggae music with hundreds of latkes and a giant menorah and you’ve got the recipe for a good time. That was the scene at the 11th Hanukkah Hullabaloo, the annual celebration performed by the Brothers Lazaroff and their friends in the music community. Proceeds benefited JFS. This marked the first live Hullabaloo since 2019. Above, Jeff Lazaroff performs at the event, which took place under the Big Top circus tent in the Central West End. At right, Rabbi James Stone Goodman and Anita Jackson take part in the event. PHOTOS: BILL MOTCHAN

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PHOTOS FROM RECENT JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENTS SUBMIT A PHOTO: Have a photo of a recent Jewish community event you would like to submit? Email the image and a suggested caption to news@stljewishlight.org. VIEW MORE ONLINE: stljewishlight.org/multimedia ABOVE LEFT: Carly Krainen, Elliott Kleiman and Hannah Kiem were in attendance. LEFT: The crowd dances around the big top during Hanukkah Hullabaloo. RIGHT: Rabbi Yosef Landa, David Lazaroff and Rabbi Chaim Landa. Regular Brothers Lazaroff collaborators were on hand at the event, including Rabbi James Stone Goodman and the Eight Night’s Orchestra. They were joined on stage by local performers Will Soll, Anita Jackson and DJ Boogieman. Also backing the Lazaroffs for the first time was popular jazz pianist Dave Grelle.

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Local Jewish organizations and congregations can submit calendar items to news@ stljewishlight.org. All items received by 5 p.m. Friday will be considered for the following week’s edition.

STARTING | Jan. 6

exploitation. For more information and to RSVP visit: https://bit.ly/Jan21LLncjwstl

Melton course on history of Arab-Israeli Conflict post-1967

TUESDAY | Jan. 25

FRIDAY | Jan. 7

Coffee Talk with SnL Welcomes Joe Olivastro

See related news brief on page 7A.

Betsy Cohen to discuss her new book at Temple Emanuel

At 7 p.m., Temple Emanuel’s own Betsy Cohen will be the Shabbat guest speaker discussing her new book, “Welcome to the U.S.A.-You’re Hired!: A Guide for Foreign-Born People Seeking Jobs.” Additionally, Cohen will give an update on the Afghan and other refugees coming to St. Louis and ways community members can support these new families. Join via Temple Emanuel’s livestream, available at www.testl.org/ stream.

SATURDAY | Jan. 8 NHBZ discussion “How Can We ‘Capture the Wow’ in Our Lives?” If you are feeling uninspired, you may be surprised to learn that you have the ability to create joy and excitement in everything you do. Find out how by attending Nusach Hari B’nai Zion Rabbi Ze’ev Smason’s discussion “How Can We ‘Capture the Wow’ in Our Lives?” at 10:15 a.m., part of NHBZ’s weekly “Starting Points: Wisdom for Daily Living,” which features interactive discussions that explore relevant, contemporary topics. NHBZ membership is not necessary to attend and RSVP’s are not required. For more information, call 314-991-2100, ext. 2.

MONDAY | Jan. 10 The new Oceanic galleries at SLAM

The St. Louis Art Museum is one of only a few in the United States which maintains and displays Oceanic art as an active component of its program. Recently, the museum reopened to the public five completely re-envisioned galleries devoted to renowned collections of Art from the Pacific Islands, including Melanesia, Hawaii, Papua and New Guinea, Australia, and New Zealand. Join SLAM’s Nicole N. Bridges, the Morton D. May Curator of the Arts of Africa, Oceania and the Americas, as she highlights the remarkable collection of the Oceanic Art Galleries from 2 to 3 p.m. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-7339813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter. org.

TUESDAY | Jan. 11 Lisa Wallis discusses ‘The Happiness Project’

Register for this three-part program and create and grow your personal “Happiness Project.” Program discussions, facilitated by Lisa Wallis, center on Gretchen Rubin’s book, “The Happiness Project: or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun.” Book purchase or access to it is helpful for full participation. Learn or review the principles of a Happiness Project, identify priorities for your Happiness Project, and launch your project with confidence. Discussions will take place from 4-5 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month through March 8. Register for this free online program at http://bit. ly/Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-733-9813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter.org.

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Betsy Cohen will be a guest speaker on Jan. 7 at Temple Emanuel, discussing her book ‘Welcome to the U.S.A.-You’re Hired!: A Guide for Foreign-Born People Seeking Jobs.’

Coffee Talk with SnL welcome Joe Olivastro at 8:30 a.m. A certified personal trainer, Olivastro will be adapting basic movement skills to increase your balance, strengthen your core and improve your agility. Explore strategies and techniques that you can use to enhance your ability to perform everyday tasks. No equipment needed, just a chair. Wear comfortable clothing. For more information and to RSVP visit: https://bit.ly/ Jan22CT

WEDNESDAY | Jan. 12

WEDNESDAY | Jan. 19

WEDNESDAY | Jan. 26

Missouri legislative session preview with NCJWSTL

The American Jewish Hour: A glimpse into STL Jewish history

Tech Tutor: Internet/Online Safety

Are you curious about what to expect during the upcoming Missouri legislative session? Would you like an opportunity to weigh in on our policy priorities for the upcoming session and be an active participant in discussing what the 2022 session might bring our way? If you answered yes, please join at 7 p.m. as NCJWSTL kicks off the year in advocacy with our legislative preview event, where we will discuss policy priorities for the upcoming MOLEG session with Amy Kuo Hammerman, state policy advocacy chair, Heather Silverman, director of policy and evaluation, and Jen Bernstein, advocacy manager. For more information and to RSVP visit: https://bit.ly/22MOLEG

THURSDAY | Jan. 13 MLK Day observance -Senator Brian Williams

This has been another turbulent year for the United States as we continue to grapple as a society with our history and the issues of race, equity, and justice. As we mark Martin Luther King Day 2022, join State Senator Brian Williams, assistant minority floor leader, virtually from 2-3 p.m. as he reflects on the state of the African American experience, in relation to King’s dream. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/ Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314733-9813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter.org.

SUNDAY | Jan. 16 Kol Rinah discussion group presents ‘Jews in Science #11’

At 4 p.m. on Zoom, Kol Rinah’s Verein Discussion Group will continue its Jews in Science series with a look at Nathan M. Newmark, who is considered by many to be the father of modern earthquake engineering and who won the National Medal of Science. Kol Rinah’s Phillip Gould, distinguished adjunct professor at St. Louis University and senior professor at Washington University, will discuss Newmark’s work developing methods for earthquake predictions and structural engineering. For more information contact: richardjrgavatin@gmail.com. RSVP at Kol Rinah STL.org or call 314-7271747. Attendees will be sent a Zoom link in advance of the program

Jewish War Veterans meeting

Jewish War Veterans Post 644 meetings will take place via Zoom for the foreseeable future at 10 a.m. the third Sunday each month. For more information contact Post 644 Commander Ellis Frohman at 636-5197512

From 2 to 3 p.m. Diane Everman will discuss Robert Lurie, host of “The American Jewish Hour,” a nationally syndicated radio show from 1947 -1954. The program offered information about what was happening in the world. Lurie was known by most in St. Louis as the owner and operator of Brentwood Travel, which he ran from 1957-1974. In 1945 he became the first executive director of the St. Louis Jewish Community Relations Council, and in 1951 he became the head of the St. Louis Israel Bonds Program. Everman is the archivist for St Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum and Learning Center & St. Louis Jewish Community Archives. This program is co-sponsored with the Saul Brodsky Jewish Community Library. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-733-9813 or via email to joliver@ mirowitzcenter.org.

Sharsheret’s breast and ovarian cancer support group

This monthly group provides support, connection and education to women in the St. Louis Jewish community who have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer and are anywhere along their treatment path – before, during, or post-treatment. Facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker, this group meets from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday via Zoom until further notice. Newcomers are always welcome along with female family and friends. This program is free but pre-registration is requested to Debbi Braunstein at 314-4423266 or dbraunstein@jccstl.org. Sharsheret Supports STL is a program of the J’s Nishmah and a partner of the national, not for profit Sharsheret organization.

THURSDAY | Jan. 20 Lunch & Learn: Domestic violence & the justice system

At noon, the National Council of Jewish Women-St. Louis welcomes Coalition Director of the Missouri Coalition Against Trafficking and Exploitation (CATE) Linda McQuary. In honor of Human Trafficking Awareness Month, McQuary will discuss how to prevent and respond to human trafficking during the COVID era and beyond. McQuary is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluation activities associated with CATE. Her passion for protecting vulnerable populations transitioned from direct services to a trauma-informed leadership position, building, training, and facilitating multidisciplinary teams involved in the investigation, prosecution, and service provision of child abuse victims. Most children served by these multidisciplinary teams experienced sexual abuse, including victims of human trafficking and commercial sexual

From 10 to 11 a.m. Nick Warmann will discuss how to stay safe online. Warmann, a cybersecurity major with a technology background, will share his expertise about protecting one’s digital devices, passwords, privacy settings, internet safety and other security-related items. Tech Tutor is supported by a grant from the Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-7339813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter. org.

Movie night at Kol Rinah

View a documentary produced locally by Peter Tao of Tao + Lee Associates called “Day One,” which follows a group of teenage refugees from war-torn countries who are enrolled at a unique St. Louis public school for refugees and immigrants using St. Louis as a backdrop. Afterwards, enjoy a lively discussion by the people involved with the movie. The event will be hosted at the newly renovated Kol Rinah, 7791 Maryland Ave. Bring friends and family to help promote the documentary and St. Louis unique growth strategy. The event will start with networking at 4:30 p.m., the film at 4:45 and the discussion at 6. For more information or to register, visit https://crewstl.org/events/specialevents/2022-01-26-dei-movie-night. The cost is $20 ($10 donation to Afghan Refugees). Proof of vaccination or a negative test within 36 hours are required. Masks are required when moving about the building.

ONGOING ChillZone at NHBZ

Calling all kids ages 5th grade and up. Get in the ChillZone with other girls and boys from the St. Louis area at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion on Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy pizza, fun and prizes while exploring Judaic topics with NHBZ Assistant Rabbi Avi Okin. This program is free, and kids and families do not need to be members of NHBZ to attend. For more information, go to chillzone@thezone.org or call Rabbi Okin at 862438-4094.

Tech Tutor: Hardware helper

For those looking for assistance with their technology devices and wanting to acquire new skills, in-person appointments are available at the Mirowitz Center. Tech Tutor’s free in-person classes take place every Monday from 1 to 3:30 p.m., in 30-minute increments and are led by two extraordinarily qualified instructors, Larry Edison and Jim Salih. Please plan to wear a mask, sanitize your hands and maintain social distance. Register online at http://bit.ly/Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-733-9813 or via email to joliver@ mirowitzcenter.org

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