Jewish Light E-Edition: March 6, 2024

BILL MOTCHAN

‘Ribbon of Hope’ to stand tall in STL until hostages released

BILL MOTCHAN

SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

Nearly 100 members of the St. Louis community gathered in Creve Coeur Monday to mark 150 days since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in Israel. They gathered for the unveiling of “Ribbon of Hope,” a dis-

play that depicts the faces of the approximate 130 hostages still being held in Gaza.

The large blue-and-white ribbon paying tribute to the Israeli hostages was unveiled at 11557 Olive Blvd. in Creve Coeur. A community ceremony accompanied the introduction of the 15-foot by

Museum to host STL premiere of noted Holocaust documentary

Filmmaker spent a decade chronicling group of Jews who fought back against Nazis

BY JORDAN PALMER CHIEF DIGITAL CONTENT OFFICER

For more than a decade, filmmaker Julia Mintz meticulously crafted her award-winning documentary “Four Winters” to challenge existing myths surrounding Jewish survival during World War II, offering a new and differing portrayal of courage. Now, she is bringing her film to St. Louis for the first time.

In honor of Women’s History Month, the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is hosting an exclusive screening

of “Four Winters” as well as a post-viewing conversation with Mintz on March 12 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Through gripping accounts and archival footage, “Four Winters” unveils the courageous acts of Jews who defied the odds, escaping to the forests of Eastern Europe, Ukraine and Belarus. There, they forged alliances and formed partisan brigades to fight back against the Nazis and their collaborators.

Speaking on her inspiration for making

on page 13

10-foot installation. The ribbon depicts the faces of all of the hostages still being held in Gaza.

The display will remain at 11557 Olive Blvd. for three weeks. It will then move to United Hebrew Congregation if the hostages are still being held at that time.

The original version of the ribbon is

located outside the Jewish Federation of Cleveland where it was installed on Dec. 22. The artwork was designed by Nancy Schwartz-Katz, a Cleveland-based Judaic artist who specializes in gouache on paper. Schwartz-Katz said the concept for

Community members attend the unveiling of the Ribbon of Hope display the faces of the approximate 130 hostages still being held in Gaza.

PHOTOS:

PHOTO BY JEWISH PARTISAN FAYE SCHULMAN

Jerry &

Roy Kramer

Nancy & Ken Kranzberg

Linda Kraus

Nada & David Krauss

Alan & Karen Kretchmar

Dan & Gloria Kweskin

Stephanie Lalezari

Vicki Lander

Carl & Gail Lang

David Lang & Suzanne

Epstein-Lang

Larry & Hannah Langsam

Ruby Lapin

Jenny & Jon Latz

Harold & Helena Law

Judy Lazerwitz

Mike & Debbie Le on

Judy Levin

Kenneth & Cynthia Levin

Alvah Levine & Karen Schechter

Sarah & Ben Levinson

Amy Bender-Levy & Rich Levy

Hedva & Don Levy

Marty & Mimi Levy

Mont & Karen Levy

Terri & Steve Leyton

Ming Chu Li

Liz & Larry Linkon

Susie Lippmann & Bill Rosenfeld

Jackie & Marty Lipsitz

Judy Lipsitz

Michael & Leslie Litwack

Jerri Livingston

Bill & Wanda Long

Carolyn Losos

Michael & Lecie Lowenbaum

Charles & Rosalyn Lowenhaupt

Steve & Susie Lowy

Michael Lyss & Carol Kaplan-Lyss

Jon & Cheryl Maayan

Kathy & Sidney Machefsky

Steve Malter

Sylvia & Stuart Manewith

Judy Mange

Bonnie Mann

Marylen Mann

Joe & Elissa Marchbein

Shelley Marglous

Reby

Andrew Rehfeld & Miggie

Beau Reinberg

Linda & Matt Renner

Sue Rich

Morty & Dina Rinder

Estelle Rochman

Carol & David Roe

Rabbi Neal Rose

Sherri & Jim Rosen

Barry Rosenberg & Barbara Levin

Je & Sharon Rosenblum

Steve & Karla Rosenblum

Steven

Jane Roth

Guy B. Ja e & Judy Schwartz Ja e

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Martin

Chance conversation reveals quirky connection between Parkway North and Jewish camp careers

Don’t you just love happy coincidences? I know I do, especially when one coincidence connects to another that connects to another — like some kind of coincidence chain reaction, perhaps even worthy of a Guinness World Record. In this case, it’s the number of people who graduated from the same St. Louis-area high school between 1989 and 1999 and became directors and/or assistant directors at Jewish overnight camps.

OK, so maybe it’s not exactly Guinness World Record material, but be a sport and go with me here.

This happy coincidence started when Aaron Hadley and Kim Holtzman Sloan got to talking at a Jewish camp conference both were attending in Chicago last month. Hadley is the director of Camp Ben Frankel in Makanda, Ill., a Jewish overnight camp about two hours from St. Louis, and Sloan is director of Camp Sabra, the overnight camp run by the Jewish Community Center of St. Louis.

As they talked, the two realize they had both graduated from Parkway North High School. Hadley, 47, was part of the Class of 1994 and Sloan, 50, was the Class of 1992. Despite being only two grades apart, they didn’t know each other in high school, or that the other had even attended Parkway North.

“I was like, ‘Wait, you’re Parkway North? I’m Parkway North,” Sloan recalled. “Then I was like Randy Comensky, whose nickname is Grizz, was Parkway North and my associate director (Lisa Deutsch) was Parkway North (both graduated in 1989). And Aaron was like Brian Mitchell was Parkway North (Class of ’95) and Mitch Morgan (Class of ‘98). We started laughing and it was like, what is happening?”

Added Hadley: “We realized that there are at least six Jewish camp directors or assistant directors who attended Parkway North. That’s a pretty outsized representation in the Jewish camping world — especially all from one St. Louis high school.”

I agreed and immediately deployed my best investigative reporter skills to get to the bottom of this phenomenon. With the help of Mitch

For

The

Shabbat

Torah

Shabbat

Shabbat

Torah

2024 PUBLICATION DATES

The Jewish Light will publish print editions twice a month in 2024, on the following dates:

• March 20

• April 3

• April 17

• May 1

• May 22

• June 5

• June 19

• July 10

• July 24

• Aug. 7

• Aug. 21

• Sept. 11

• Sept. 25

• Oct. 9

• Oct. 23

• Nov. 6

• Nov. 20

• Dec. 4

• Dec. 18

NEWS & SCHMOOZE

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

Morgan, who lives in St. Louis but is co-owner and director of Camp Kingswood in Maine, we uncovered two more to add to the list – Morgan’s younger brother Sean, who spent much of his career as a Jewish overnight camp professional and is now COO at the University of Michigan Hillel, and Seth Toybes, a 20-plus year director at Wilshire Boulevard Temple Camps in Malibu, Calif., which run two separate overnight camps. As I dug deeper, I got to thinking:

What was in the water at Parkway North that led at least eight graduates to director jobs at Jewish overnight camp? How did they even know it was a career option? Where did it all begin?

The “where,” as it turns out, is Camp Sabra, which most of these directors attended for years as campers. No big surprise that many people who have careers in Jewish camping usually are products of them. But to hear these folks talk about their Sabra experiences you’d think the place was Shangri-la.

“There was this draw, there was something about summers at Sabra that were just so magical, and it never left me,” said Kim Sloan. “I remember when Facebook came out, the very first people I went searching for were my counselors.”

Sloan worked in Los Angeles for 16 years as a TV casting

OUR BOARD AND STAFF

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

Michael Staenberg, President Bethe Growe, Immediate Past President

Kara Newmark, Vice President Ryan Rich, Vice President Justin Krachmalnick, Treasurer Todd Taylor, Secretary

DIRECTORS

Caroline Goldenberg, Mia Kweskin, Debbie Lefton, Steve Rosenzweig and Adam Schneider

JEWISH LIGHT PAST PRESIDENTS

Bernard Fischlowitz*, Milton I. Goldstein*, Morris Pearlmutter* (founder), Morris Moscowitz*, Melvin Newmark*, Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin*, Vivian Zwick*, Joseph Edlin*, Michael Newmark, Richard Stein, Yusef Hakimian*, Sanford Weiss*, Philip Isserman*, Linda Kraus, Richard Flom, Marvin Schneider, Barbara Langsam Shuman, Terry Bloomberg, John Greenberg, David Grebler*, Milton Movitz*, Gianna Jacobson, Jenny Wolkowitz, Gary Kodner, Jane Tzinberg Rubin, Steve Gallant, Laura K. Silver, Bethe Growe

* Of Blessed Memory

JORDAN PALMER

CONGREEGATION SHAARE EMETH

As reports of antisemitic incidents rise, including at many high schools around the country, a group of Jewish students at Clayton High School decided to organize an event to help their fellow teens stand up to antisemitism.

“As a result of the current war, we noticed that antisemitism was on the rise,” said Molly Siwak, a junior at Clayton and one of the organizers of the event. “We also noticed that our Jewish peers didn’t know how to respond to antisemitism or questions about the war. Because of this, we organized the event in hopes of educating our peers about how to notice antisemitism as well as how to respond and combat it.”

The teens reached out to Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham of Congregation B’nai Amoona and Liessa Alperin, the synagogue’s director of congregational life and engagement.

“The group wanted to learn more about Israel and how to confront the heightened antisemitism they were dealing with at Clayton High School,” said Rabbi Abraham. “We were ready to act quickly to prepare a lesson that would resonate for these teens.”

Together, they discussed the students’ goals and put together plans for a presentation designed specifically for them.

“We wanted to create a safe space for Jewish teens in the district to come together and discuss our shared experiences, to learn as a group about how to stand up to antisemitism,” said Noah Lerman, another

student organizer.

The event was held earlier this month at Clayton High School, with around 25 students in attendance.

“I took about 30 minutes to give a crash course in the history of Israel,” said Rabbi Abraham. “It’s important to remind everyone that our history begins with Abraham in the Torah, and then everything that has happened over the last 3,000 years leading up to the creation of the state of Israel, and then what has happened in Israel since 1948. After this, we took about an hour to discuss what they were hearing at school so we could give them the tools on how to respond. It’s important to use facts and

B’nai Amoona

Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham and Director of Congregational Life and Engagement Liessa Alperin meet with students at Clayton High School.

continue to ask someone on the other side where they are getting their information from.”

After the program, some of the students told the Jewish Light about the experience.

“I can confidently say that my expectations were exceeded. I am feeling much more prepared to stand up to all kinds of hate,” said Lerman.

“I feel way more prepared for future discussions after hearing what Rabbi Abraham and Liessa Alperin had to say,” said Siwak. “In addition, I think my peers feel way more comfortable about the topic as well.”

“I thought Rabbi Abraham’s presentation resonated with me and other students,” said Micah Lotsoff. “I was surprised by how many students, including many I didn’t even know were Jewish, came to find out more about antisemitism.”

Overall, the students said they felt their school’s Jewish community was strong and would stand together.

“This event affirmed my belief that what is happening to the Jewish community is a shared experience and that everyone could use some help handling it,” said Lerman.

More opportunities to learn

B’nai Amoona is also participating in another effort to educate all high school students. “Israel & Antisemitism: Past. Present.Future” is a crash course on Israel and antisemitism. Participants will develop an understanding of Israel’s history and Zionism.

While the first classes took place on Monday, Feb. 26 and March 4, students are still encouraged to sign up for the remaining classes, which will take place over on Monday evenings through April 15, at B’nai Amoona, 324 S Mason Road. Dinner is offered at 6:45, followed by class from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Visit https://bit. ly/430d1il to register.

Rubin and Gloria Feldman Institute seeks applicants for Holocaust education funding; deadline is April 1

The

The Feldman Institute supports projects

hatred,

inspire change using

history and lessons of the Holocaust. The Institute is especially, but not exclusively, interested in projects that benefit Missouri and the Midwest region. Institute funds will be dispersed to nonprofits and educational institutions. Individual educators may apply, but funds will be dispersed to the educational institute with which they are affiliated.

The Institute funds programs of educational and artistic merit that do one or

more of the following: explore the history and legacy of the Holocaust; use the lessons of the Holocaust to examine subjects of ethical, social,and political importance; facilitate dialogue between people of different ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds; combat antisemitism, racism and discrimination based on disability, sex, religion, sexual orientation, or age. The Institute does not fund capital improvements or operating expenses.

“We are proud to support critical education projects through the Rubin and Gloria Feldman Family Educational Institute each year,” said Myron Freedman, executive director of the Museum. “These projects will help to continue the process of transformational change in the St. Louis region and beyond.”

To apply, please visit STLHolocaustMuseum.org/FeldmanInstitute.

THANK YOU!

POWERED BY YOU WITH GRATITUDE

Federation leadership and sta are so proud of our St. Louis Jewish community's achievement in our 2023 Annual campaign, and the commitment to Jewish life locally and around the world.

Together, you and over 3,000 households contributed $8.766 MILLION!

You make a huge IMPACT in our community.

Thank you to our community members who put their trust in us to assess and invest in the greatest needs of the St. Louis Jewish community, Israel and around the world.

Joe Pereles 2023 Annual Campaign Chair

Toby Warticovschi Vice-Chair, Development

Bob Newmark Board Chair

The late Mimi Edlin (left) founded the Joseph J. Edlin Memorial Summer Journalism Internship in memory of her husband (right), who was a past president of the Jewish Light Board of Directors.

Light seeks applicants for Edlin Summer Journalism Internship

The St. Louis Jewish Light is accepting applications for its Joseph J. Edlin Memorial Summer Journalism Internship.

The late Mimi Edlin and her family established the scholarship to honor her late husband, Joseph J. Edlin. Joseph Edlin was a longtime trustee and past president of the Light. A similar scholarship was founded at the SarasotaManatee Jewish News in Florida, where Mimi Edlin resided for many years after leaving St. Louis. Mimi Edlin passed away in October 2017.

The Light internship is for high school or college students with coursework or experience in journalism or writing.

The paid reporting internship will offer students an opportunity to gain experience in a professional newspaper environment and have work published in our weekly newspaper, quarterly magazine and online.

Candidates should send a resume, cover letter and three writing samples to Editor-in-Chief Ellen Futterman at news@stljewishlight.org by 5 p.m. April 5.

SCHMOOZE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

director before she and her husband decided to return to the Midwest. When she learned Sabra was hiring an assistant director of camper improvement and retention, she applied for the job and started two months later. That was November 2013. In 2022, she became the camp’s director.

“There is just something about the community of Sabra where you can be someplace and meet someone and find out that their cousin, brother, whoever went to Sabra, and you immediately have a connection,” she said. “It’s pretty spectacular.”

Mitch Morgan, 44, agrees wholeheartedly, adding that Jewish overnight camp not only helped shape him as an individual but also solidified his connection to Judaism. He is sure many of his counterparts feel the same way.

“Jewish camp, when it is doing things right, can be a little cultish in the best way possible. It’s come with us and be part of something,” he said. “If you were to ask me where I belong, I would say I belong to the Jewish Camp Synagogue.”

For some, like Aaron Hadley, Jewish overnight camp is in their DNA. His grandparents co-founded Camp Ben Frankel and his mother spent summers there growing up. He jokes that he tried to major in summer camp at the University of Arizona; unfortunately, such a major did not exist.

He worked at a few Jewish overnight camps and non-profits before returning to the St. Louis area in 2017 when he heard Camp Ben Frankel was about to close. “We convinced the board (of the camp) to give our plan a shot and keep it open and that’s been working ever since,” he said.

Lisa Deutsch, 53, has worked at Camp Sabra since 2017 and is now its associate director of community care. She mentions the generational pull Sabra not only has on her, but also on her four children, two of whom will be counselors there this summer. Her dad went to Camp Hawthorn, the predecessor to Sabra. Deutsch assumes that “the next generation” of her family will also attend Camp Sabra.

While she spent six summers at Sabra as a camper and knows firsthand how her experiences there helped shape her, she delights in being able to impact others in her current position.

Brian Mitchell, class of Mitchell,’95 ’95 Randy Comensky, class of ’89 (shown th Kim Holtzman Sloan)

“I love being a part of Sabra now because while there are hard moments, I feel I am helping to let these kids and staff members grow in so many ways. It is extremely rewarding work.”

And yes, it is work. And sacrifice. Despite being able to spend their summers in idyllic settings, being a camp director is a year-round job and for several months, it often means being away from family.

Randy “Grizz” Comensky knows that better than most. He spent 20 years in various capacities at Sabra, moving from camper to counselor to unit head to assistant director to director. After multi-year director stints at Jewish camps in Buffalo, N.Y., Houston and Detroit, he’s been assistant director of operations for the past three years at Camp Interlocken, a Jewish overnight summer camp in Wisconsin.

He says work as a camp director, “is 100% your life.” The job not only involves being at camp 24/7 during the summer months, but in the “off season” recruiting campers and hiring staff, strategic planning, budgeting, fundraising, ordering, facilities maintenance and much more.

“I’ve been doing this for almost 30 years so I’ve learned how to manage, but for

sure the first couple of years can be a struggle to find happiness between your family life, personal life and your camp life. That is a challenge,” said Comensky, 53, who is married with two teenagers. “If I hadn’t been able to find that balance, I probably would have gotten out of camping.”

After years of working at Jewish overnight camps, including as an assistant director at Sabra, Brian Mitchell, 46, is taking a break. These days, he’s supervising kid’s programming and day camp at a local health club in Scottsdale, Ariz. where he lives with his wife and 9-month-old daughter.

“I’m a product of Jewish overnight summer camp. I learned more in the one month I spent at camp than I probably did nine months of the year in school -- things like gaining independence, learning to figure things out on my own and experiencing Judaism in a way that was very different than religious school,” said Mitchell. “But with a family and responsibilities at home, it’s hard for me to be away for two to three months. As my daughter grows and if she’s interested in attending overnight summer camp, maybe I can find a position where that would work.”

No question there are sacrifices in this line of work, maybe more so than other jobs. But perhaps Comensky summed it up best when he said, “While camp definitely impacts families because it takes a lot of you, and a fair amount of time away, the rewards are incredible.

“More than anything though, it’s seeing a smile on a camper’s face when you know that you made a difference. It’s really something.”

Mitch M gan, class of 1998, and his brother, an (1999)

NJT kicks off season with ‘All My Sons’

The New Jewish Theatre is set to open its 26th season with the Tony Awardwinning play “All My Sons” by Arthur Miller at the Wool Studio Theatre March 21-April 7. Starring Greg Johnston as Joe Keller, the family patriarch, Amy Loui as Kate Keller, the matriarch, and Jayson Heil as Chris Keller, the family’s son and veteran of the war, this play will question right and wrong and test the bonds of family in a moving tale set in the wake of World War II.

Written by Miller in 1915 and directed by Gary Wayne Barker, “All My Sons” touches on many themes and moral questions that are relevant today, including the righteousness of acting to protect your family at the expense of others, what makes one complicit in someone’s else’s crimes and the true-life challenges of veterans returning home following the terrible events of World War II.

Returning performers to NJT for “All My Sons” are Joel Moses (George Deever), Sumer Baer (Lydia Lubey), and Kristen Joy Lintvedt (Ann Deever), fresh off her St. Louis Theatre Circle Award nomination as Cinderella in the NJT’s production of “Into the Woods.” Making their New Jewish Theatre acting debuts are Joshua Mayfield (Dr. Jim Bayless), Zahria Imani Moore (Sue Bayless), and Riley Capp (Frank Lubey). Making his NJT and professional theatre debut is 10-year-old Shane Rose (Bert) – a participant in the J’s Youth Theatre program.

The production design for “All My Sons” will be led by a highly esteemed team of designers including C. Otis Sweezy as scenic designer, Michele Friedman Siler as costume designer and Amanda Werre as sound designer. Denisse Chavez will conduct lighting design and Kathryn Ballard is the production stage manager.

In line with the difficult themes of war and readjustment to civilian life, NJT has decided to partner with the Veteran’s Community Project for an exclusive postshow discussion following the March 31 matinee show. After the curtain closes, audience members will have the chance to learn about the work they are doing to provides high quality and well-developed strategic services that enable veterans to meet the challenges of day-to-day living, resolve immediate crises, and move towards permanent stability.

“All My Sons” takes place at the J’s Wool Studio Theatre, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. Performances are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 4 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Individual tickets are $27- $58. Tickets are available by phone at 314-4423283 or online at newjewishtheatre.org.

NCJW STL to honor Jill Schupp, Section Award recipients on April 3

NCJWSTL will honor Jill Schupp, former Missouri State Senator, with its Hannah G. Solomon Founder’s Award, NCJW’s most prestigious recognition on Wednesday, April 3, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center’s Performing Arts Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. In addition, honorees for the annual section awards will also be recognized.

The Hannah G. Solomon award recipients exemplify the NCJW mission of improving the quality of life for women, children and families. After Schupp was winding down her two-decade career in advertising, and volunteering in her children’s school, her desire to make positive change in the world led her to run for public office. Schupp’s 22 years of elected service included positions on the Ladue School Board, Creve Coeur City Council, the Missouri State House and State Senate. Schupp is grateful to have

had the opportunity to pass 30 bills at the state level aligning with her focus on social justice, education, and healthcare. Currently, she serves as the Capital Campaign Committee Chair for the Veterans Community Project-STL; and serves on Access MO, Crown Center for Senior Living, and Provident Behavioral Health Boards. Section Award recipients will be recognized for their ongoing contributions to the programs and projects that have made NCJWSTL a leader in the St. Louis community for over 128 years. Honorees include Cindy Frank, Leadership; Healing Hearts Bank Volunteers; Gail Lapin, Karen Tabak, Jane Charbonneau, Joy Sterneck, Marty Kutheis, Randee Schmittdiel, Bonnie Davis, Mary Sue Inman, Gary Lipman

and Monique Ray for Volunteer Service; Louise Levine, Fritzi Lainoff Advocate; Mindy Grossman, Emerging Leader; Diane Fadem, Community Impact and the AAUW Ballwin Chapter; Karen Francis and Pat Shores, Community Partnership.

This year’s Celebrating Women event is co-chaired by Amy Gallant, Hillary Hinz, and Dana Sandweiss.

The cost to attend is $36 for members and $54 for non-members and there is an opportunity for additional Champion Tickets and tributes. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/2023cw. RSVPs will be accepted until March 20. To register, visit www.ncjwstl.org, email Renee Sigel-Hearst at rsigelhearst@ ncjwstl.org, or call 314-993-5181.

Jill Schupp

BROUGHT TO YOU THIS MONTH BY:

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. Newsmakers is compiled by Elise Krug.

At their March 10 annual luncheon, the Men’s Club of Congregation B’nai Amoona and Brotherhood of Kol Rinah plan to honor their respective Man of the Year and Youth of the Year. All honorees have demonstrated a commitment to Jewish values and work towards the betterment of the world around them.

At B’nai Amoona, Creighton Cohn is the vice president of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC), past president of the FJMC Midwest region, commissioner of the St. Louis Inter-congregation softball league, and has held other volunteer positions in the St. Louis Jewish community. Cohn is an attorney with the Cohn Law Firm.

Youth of the Year is one who has shown leadership and community involvement. Daughter of Jessica Landy and Michael Landy, Samara Landy is a senior at Clayton High School and through a dual enrollment program, is also attending St. Louis Community College. She is a madrichah (teacher’s helper) in the religious school, been a camp counselor at Ramot Amoona, and a member of the B’nai Amoona’s United Synagogue Youth (BAUSY and regional USY (EMTZA) boards. Outside of B’nai Amoona, Samara is also an all-conference softball pitcher, a member of the Studentto-Student program and a lifeguard at the Jewish Community Center near Creve Coeur.

Kol Rinah’s Brotherhood is honoring Dr.

Ralph Graff for his many contributions and his longstanding support. He is a past president and treasurer of B’rith Shalom Kneseth Israel (BSKI) prior to its merge with Shaare Zedek and a board member of Kol Rinah. Graff says he is proud of his involvement in helping put up the BSKI and Shaare Zedek memorial plaques in Kol Rinah and for participating in the adult education program over the last 20 year. He is currently a professor of surgery at St. Louis University School of Medicine as well as the director of the Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Laboratory.

Grace Cooperstein, daughter of Dave and

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Alisa Cooperstein, and Rebekah Simmons, daughter of Karen Kern, are the Youth of the Year at Kol Rinah. Grace is a teaching assistant for KoREH religious school, working with first, second, and third graders since 2021. She is a junior at Whitfield School where she is the editor-in-chief of the yearbook and rock climbs with the school club. Grace also performs with various theater companies in St. Louis. Rebekah is a junior at Dayspring Arts & Education, where she is involved with the student council planning events for the school. She has volunteered at many synagogue holi-

Continued on opposite page

WANTED: Executive Director

Jewish Federation of Peoria, Illinois

Closing Date to Apply: March 22, 2024 Beginning Date: July 1, 2024

Part-Time: Four days per week, as well as some evenings and Sundays

Salary: commensurate with experience

Position description and JFP: www.jewishpeoria.org

Information on living in Peoria: greaterpeoriaedc.org/ and peoria.org/

To apply, email cover letter and resume to: Chuck Mitchell (chuckm1961@sbcglobal.net).

ABOVE, FROM LEFT: Creighton Cohn, Samara Landy and Dr. Ralph Graff and Grace Cooperstein. RIGHT: Rebekah Simmons

day events and other programs. Rebekah is in her third year as a madricha, for KoREH, working with pre-schoolers and kindergarteners.

Taxman Griege Wealth Management has been recognized on the 2024 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams List in Missouri. Philip Taxman, senior vice-president, Wealth Management advisor, and Portfolio manager, is a member of Congregation Shaare Emeth. Kyle Griege, vice-president and Wealth Management advisor, attends United Hebrew Congregation.

Amy Lampert was recently installed as the new chair of the Women’s Philanthropy board at the Jewish Federation of St. Louis for a three-year term. A member of Temple Israel, she is vice president and COO of her family’s company, Time Square, Inc./Lampe, LP.

Sabin Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors has been recognized by Forbes as one of the 2024 Best-In-State

Wealth Management Teams for the second consecutive year. Based in Frontenac, Andrew, Bruce and Bradley Sabin specialize in multi-generational wealth planning. Andrew Sabin is a member of Congregation Temple Israel and Bruce Sabin attends Kol Rinah.

AT LEFT:

Former St. Louisan Jill Starr is the newest pickleball coach at the Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball Center in Steamboat, Colo. She is an accomplished player and national tournament gold medal winner.

Editor’s note: The Feb. 21 Newsmakers page included an incorrect first name for the mother of Hannah Wolkowitz. A revised Newsmakers item follows.

Hannah Wolkowitz, a junior at Parkway Central High School, was chosen from over 50 submissions worldwide as one of four winners of the 2023-2024 Community Music School of Webster University (CMS) Young Composers Competition. She placed first in her age bracket with the song “They are All Gone.” The winning compositions will be featured in a public concert with Chamber Project St. Louis on March 24 at 4 p.m. in the CMS concert hall. On March 2, Hannah performed as a finalist in the U.S. Navy Band’s Young Artist Solo Competition in the D.C. area. Hannah is the daughter of Amanda and Bob Wolkowitz. The family attends United Hebrew.

ABOVE, FROM LEFT: Amy Lampert, Philip Taxman, Kyle Griege, Jill Starr and Hannah Wolkowitz.

Bradley, Bruce and Andrew Sabin.

OPINIONS

JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS`

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Two campaigns — one generous community

BY LARRY GAST

In one of the most challenging years our community has ever faced, the Jewish Federation of St. Louis is thrilled to celebrate the collective achievement of our community in Federation’s 2023 Annual Campaign. Guided by the leadership of Joe Pereles, 2023 Campaign Chair, and Toby Warticovschi, ViceChair, Development, our community rallied together to support our shared mission of preserving and enhancing Jewish life in St. Louis, Israel and beyond.

Together, we raised an incredible $8.76 million from over 3,000 supporters, a testament to the generosity and commitment of our St. Louis Jewish community. This achievement is a community triumph, made possible by the dedication and support of all our donors, volunteers, and partners, and in service of more that 85+ organizations across our region and around the world that sustain our vision of a vibrant Jewish world.

ing the depth of compassion and solidarity within our community.

Federation would like to thank everyone who has given, and to Abby Goldstein and Tim Stern for co-chairing this effort. The need in Israel is ongoing, and Federation is continuing to raise dollars to support Israel during this time of crisis.

In addition to meeting the ongoing needs of our community, St. Louis stepped up for Israel, raising over $4.3 million from over 2,400 donors for our Israel Emergency Campaign through

D’VAR TORAH: VAYAKHEIL

Federation’s direct fundraising efforts, and over $7.3 million across our community’s individual, family and corporate giving in total crisis giving directly to Israeli organizations and other crisis campaigns. This milestone underscores our community’s unwavering commitment to providing essential humanitarian and economic recovery support during times of crisis, further highlight-

Amidst the challenges we faced, including demographic shifts and economic uncertainties, our community remained steadfast in its dedication to making a difference. The growth in the number of overall supporters from 2022 to 2023 reflects a deepening engagement and a shared commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant Jewish community together.

As we look to the future, we are inspired by the resilience and generosity of our community. We extend our deepest gratitude to each member of our community for your continued support and dedication. Your contributions, of all sizes have made an impact and exemplify the strength and unity of our community. Together, we will continue to make a difference and create a better world for all.

Don’t let our reflection blind us to needs of others

BY RABBI JAMES BENNETT CONGREEGATION SHAARE EMETH

For most of my life I have inclined towards a philosophy of universalism. From my earliest years, I understood our Jewish tradition as teaching that each human being is created B’tselem Elohim, in the Divine image, and that all human beings are equally entitled to dignity and respect. While I understand that we have a responsibility to care for ourselves and those around us, I am deeply compelled by the obligation that Hillel taught in Pirkei Avot: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? Yet, if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”

Now is that moment, I believe, when we must reassess our priorities and make certain that our particularistic concern for ourselves has not blinded us to our equal obligation for all others. For, if now now, when?

This week’s Torah portion, Parashat Vayakheil includes the moment when the ancient Israelites created the Mishkan, or Tabernacle, in the wilderness. Curiously, the Torah reports that Betzalel, the artisan in charge of the project, “. . . made the copper washstand and its copper base out of the mirrors of the women assembled at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting.” [Ex. 38: 8]

The mention of these mirrors is surprising. Many commentators have suggested reasons for their inclusion, but these days, more than ever, I find an important ethical

lesson hidden in this text.

One of the joys of becoming a grandfather for the first time is watching my four month old granddaughter discover herself and the world. As many of you have experienced, it is delightful to see an infant gazing into a mirror and realize that every move she makes is mimicked by the image she sees. She can gaze almost endlessly at her reflection.

Thankfully, most of us outgrow this developmentally appropriate narcissism and obsession with ourselves and our own image. We begin to realize that there is a world around us, and that we are not the center of the universe. Hopefully, our healthy development guides us to balance our self-interest with a concern for others.

Mirrors, we come to understand, while instruments of practical value, are also potentially agents of narcissism. When we gaze endlessly into mirrors, real and metaphoric, we are not merely self-focused. We can also become blinded to others, and to the plight of others. We begin to believe that our own story, our own pain, our own needs, is all that matters.

Make no mistake: we have every right to look into the mirror, to mourn, to pray, and to feel a myriad of emotions. Our needs are real. Our pain is painful. Our grief is palpable. There can be no denying that the horrific and unspeakable terrorist attacks inflicted upon the people of Israel on October 7 stand alone as atrocites. In a civilized world, such things cannot be justified

Rabbi James Bennett serves Congregation Shaare Emeth and is a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association, which coordinates the d’var Torah for the Jewish Light.

and of course, may not go unanswered. The taking of innocent hostages, subjected to inhumane treatment must be soundly condemned and everything possible must be done to restore them to freedom.

Likewise, the real and present danger to the innocent people of Israel must be addressed and somehow resolved, if necessary, through ethical military action, but hopefully, through diplomacy and efforts to create two states living side by side in what, we pray, might be a lasting peace.

Beyond the boundaries of Israel, there is more that is real, as we see the image of ourselves reflected in our fears of growing antisemitism which, like all hatred, prejudice, and intolerance, must be eradicated, through education, legislation and dialogue and more. All human beings, created in B’tselem Elohim, in the image of the Divine, have the right to live freely and without fear.

The Torah portion teaches us an important lesson. There is a reason that mirrors were incorporated into the Tabernaclenot just to make it beautiful, but also to remind the people of Israel, and all of us, not to cling to our mirrors and not to become blinded by seeing merely own image. The mirrors were incorporated into a part of the Mishkan to remind us to let go of the belief that our own narrative is the only one that counts. By bringing their copper mirrors to help create part of the holiest place in the people’s midst, the women taught the important lesson of balance. Yes, we must be for ourselves, but not only for ourselves. We must look at the image of the other as well. We must see our own reflection and the reflection of others, for all created in the Divine image, and all are equally entitled to the treatment we demand for ourselves.

For us to demand that the world acknowledge our pain and our grief and our fear without our simultaneously acknowledging the pain and grief and fear of others is folly at the least, and hypocrisy at the worst. Our tradition, our Torah, demands that we find the strength and courage to look beyond our own image, and act with integrity, seeing others around us with the same commitment to dignity and respect we expect others to extend to us. Then, and only then will our reflections be a blessing. A blessing of holiness to us, to each other, and to all who dwell on Earth.

Larry Gast is the vice president of development at the Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

IMAGE: STOCK.ADOBE.COM

St. Louisans recount eye-opening trip to Israel

Recent trip visited agencies in Israel that receive funding from Jewish Federation

In January, Rabbi Brigitte Rosenberg of United Hebrew Congregation, Jewish Federation of St. Louis Vice Chair of Finance Felicia Malter and Federation’s Vice President of Community Impact Karen Sher arrived in Israel for a tour sponsored by Federation to visit partner agencies that receive its support.

The trip, which was originally scheduled for November 2023, was delayed after the tragic attacks on Oct. 7.

The three women journaled their exhaustive itinerary via WhatsApp during the trip to capture thoughts in the moment and share the experience with the St. Louis community in realtime.

Sher likened the overall experience to being with a family in deep crisis. That family is Israel in the months since Oct. 7 when the Hamas attacks sent the nation reeling with panic and grief, only to be worsened by the torment of antisemitic fervor across the globe.

Familiar experiences and locations play host to the unfamiliar— everything and everyone in Israel are marked by the attacks and the war. Hotels have become temporary homes and schools clothing distribution centers for thousands of displaced people clinging to a new way of living. Joyful Kabbalat Shabbat services include familiar songs intermingled with family members saying Kaddish in mourning for their loved one murdered at the Nova music festival.

The group visited with several long-standing Federation partners who not only continue to serve their primary missions but also now provide even more services to Israeli citizens based on urgent needs brought by the attacks and the war to defend Israel. Importantly, each of these partners had been supported long before the attacks and so were exceptionally prepared to respond immediately. Every horrific story they heard throughout the trip was met by an equally compelling force –resilience and unity.

“From the protests of 2023 when the country was more divided than ever, to October 7th solidarity. The words

B’yachad N’natzeach – ‘Together we will win’ are found all over the country,” Sher wrote.

The group visited Haifa, Tel Aviv and Federation’s partnership regions of Yokneam and Megiddo. In each stop, they met survivors and volunteers – each recounting incredible stories of trauma, fear and service to each other.

“Our partners are doing incredible work and the support provided from the St. Louis community is making a difference,” Sher described. “Our Jewish Federation along with the entire Federation system works in partnership with many organizations in Israel who work on our behalf to fulfill our obligation of Kol Arevim Ze Ba Ze, we are all responsible for one another.”

The group paid a shiva call for Sgt.

Partner visits demonstrate Federation’s impact in Israel

During the January trip to Israel, St. Louisans Rabbi Brigitte Rosenberg, Felicia Malter and Karen Sher visited several partner agencies to discuss the impact of the war and how Federation’s support is making a difference in the lives of Israeli citizens.

Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) also home to Keren Kayemet/JFN and Karen Hayesod. The group toured the halls and recounted the stories that led to the creation of the state of Israel, including JAFI’s situation room where a 24-hour hotline was established receiving over 7000 calls since Oct. 7 and 8,000 families have received money through the Funds of Victims of Terror. JAFI continues to prepare for an influx of Jews coming from around the world as a result of rising antisemitism.

First Class Daniel Kasau Zegeye of Yokneam (one of 21 soldiers killed in Gaza in one day) on behalf of our community and brought cakes and a letter for our St. Louis-Atlanta partnership. Daniel was Ethiopian, so a member of the community guided the group through the shiva, explaining the customs and insisting they eat something so they could say a bracha (blessing). More than a thousand people attended Daniel’s funeral and shiva offering their condolences.

A visit with the partnership team in Megiddo detailed how volunteers there have been aiding many survivors from Kibbutz Nachal Oz, who began arriving the morning after the massacre, step-

Nir Etzion has taken in 450 Ethiopians from the Ibim Absorption Center in the Sha’ar HaNegev region. Eldad, director of the Absorption Center, shared that Ibim was created in 1992 as a village for students from all over the world and in 2012, JAFI established it as an Ethiopian absorption center. The Ethiopian community at Ibim is religious and on Oct. 7 many were on their way to the synagogue when the missiles began. Luckily, while there were terrorists all around that region, none entered Ibim. JAFI brought buses and were able to evacuate everyone, 50 at a time, taking six hours to get everyone out. Twenty-two JAFI workers left their families or moved with their families to work with the new Olim.

Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) has been providing extensive trauma therapy and mobilizing pro-rights units to help people understand and access benefits from the government. The St. Louis group learned about Chibuki (the Hebrew word for hug) a stuffed dog with long arms for hugging and a sad face. Therapists working with children who have experienced trauma use Chibuki to draw out their feelings, giving them the words needed to share how they are feeling so they can begin to heal.

Federation’s 27-year partnership with Atlanta and Yokneam-Megiddo is successful due to the vision and commitment of Mayor Simon Alfassi who had a vision to build a community of immigrants from all over the world including hundreds of Ethiopians, Ukrainians and Russians. This long and strong relationship between our communities has led to the building of many social welfare and educational programs that helped build Yokneam into a thriving community.

Leket Israel, Israel’s National Food Bank, and leading food rescue organization has pivoted from food rescue to food buying and supporting farmers. Before Oct. 7, Leket served 270,00 people per week, that number has jumped to 330,000. Many farms were destroyed during the attacks and with Hezbollah just five kilometers away from the Israel border, farmers in the North cannot tend their fields for fear of Hezbollah shooting at them. Our Federation has made an added donation of $18,300 for Leket to buy produce in the

Above and below: Images from the Jewish Federation’s trip to Israel. The participants used WhatsApp during the trip to share their thoughts on the journey.

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ping from buses, some still in their pajamas, and many with no life in their eyes. Volunteers helped the victims get situated; receive news of those who were missing or had died; plan funerals; and observe shiva and shloshim. They set up a preschool, kindergarten and classrooms so that the children could stay with their friends.

The St. Louis contingent met with a few of the survivors who shared harrowing accounts of sheltering in their safe room, trying to keep their young children quiet while another mother of three hid for 15

PARTNERS

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

near term; however, Israel’s security relies on being agriculturally self-sufficient and to be able to feed themselves.

Economic Empowerment for Women is a business training program for economically disadvantaged Jewish and Arab women wanting to start their own businesses. It has launched a campaign matching each woman with a consultant providing three to five sessions to help them support their businesses.

Shacharit, part think tank, leadership incubator and community organizing hub, nurtures new social partnerships among all of Israel’s communities building a future rooted in the common good. One of their programs, Daybreak, provided 180 microgrants totaling $800,000 for projects addressing the trauma of Oct. 7.

Hand in Hand School in Jaffa, a mixed yet segregated community offered rays of light that there is still hope for shared understanding and support. Before Hand in Hand, there were no bilingual programs or opportunities to meet one another. Now, with six schools across the country for kindergarten through sixth or eighth grade, Arab and Jewish children learn together from both Arabic- and Hebrew-speaking teachers.

hours with no food, water or electricity — without understanding what was happening. Through Federation’s support, Mishmar HaEmek, a kibbutz in Megiddo, has provided these individuals with a temporary home, school, and support until they can return home.

Tu B’Shevat is known as the “birthday of the trees,” a holiday marked by tree planting and connection to the land. The group joined the Yokneam ceremony to plant almond trees in memory of several individuals who have died since Oct. 7.

“With these trees their ruach (spirit) and nefesh (soul) are now rooted in the land with these almond saplings and the rain felt like tears from Above, watering these newly planted trees,” Rosenberg

chronicled.

Perhaps their visit to Jaffa offers a glimpse of a brighter future. Malter recounted meeting with leadership at the Federation-supported Hand in Hand School in Jaffa, a mixed yet segregated community that offered rays of light that there is still hope for shared understanding and support. The school brings Israeli Jews and Arabs together from preschool through high school and each class is taught by both Hebrew and Arab-speaking instructors.

“A school employee told us she used to think change would come from the top down, and now works at the school knowing that true change will come from the youth.”

As the St. Louis trio reflected on their travels and all of the experiences, they were struck by how so many people thanked them for being there.

“They said, you know you are coming to a war zone, Israel’s at war and you still came,” said Rosenberg. “It was awkward being thanked and we realized that perhaps this comes from a lack of understanding of the central role Israel plays in the identity of the Jewish people outside of Israel. We came to bear witness, we came to give hugs, we came to hear their stories, and to bring them back to our community. We came because we are Jews and if one Jew is in pain, we are all in pain.”

RIBBON

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Ribbon of Hope was designed to show support for the hostages.

“The ribbon symbolizes support and solidarity for the safe return of the hostages,” Schwartz-Katz said. “And it puts the individual faces that people can

relate to of the children, of the parents, of the grandparents, of everybody who’s being held by Hamas and make it straightforward for people to see. You can see it from any angle.

“So many people are in their own homes and in their own heads, and here’s a way for them to feel that it’s a connection to the community. We are all a part of this community and we all

want these people that are just like you and me to come home.”

The event was planned by the Israeli American Council and St. Louis Friends of Israel. Both organizations commissioned the project, using Schwartz-Katz’s artwork. It was fabricated by a local contractor, Arthur Kotets, who donated the frame and materials.

Community members attend the unveiling of the Ribbon of Hope display the faces of the approximate 130 hostages still being held in Gaza.

PHOTO: BILL MOTCHAN

Documentary: Filmmaker will attend local premiere of ‘Four Winters’

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the film, Mintz reflected on her upbringing and the pervasive narratives surrounding Jewish survival during the war.

“We were taught, ‘lambs to the slaughter,’ and the inherited story of American liberators,” she explained, highlighting what she describes as a passive portrayal of Jewish survival prevalent in public school education and Hollywood depictions. “I felt like someone needed to be an advocate to say, you know, that wasn’t always the case.”

Telling a different narrative, one exploring the depths of human courage is what “Four Winters” became.

Through interviews with eight partisans — five women and three men — the film chronicles their journey from innocence to resilience as they navigate the harsh realities of war and defy unimaginable odds to survive.

“The film follows two narratives,” explained Mintz. “One is the linear timeline, but this film is really about the soul, the soul’s journey and the personal journey of each partisan.”

Mintz delves into the intricacies of everyday life for each of the partisans and how they grapple with the fierce anxiety of knowing each day could be their last.

“The film does not shy away from that,” she said, emphasizing the film’s unflinching portrayal of the ethical dilemmas faced by its subjects. “We go right in there and explore how these decent people, who

“KNOWS

‘Four Winters’

WHAT: Exclusive showing of “Four Winters: A Story of Jewish Partisan Resistance and Bravery in WWII” followed by a conversation with Julia Mintz

WHEN: March 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. (90-minute film)

WHERE: St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, 36 Millstone Campus Drive

HOW MUCH: $10

MORE INFO: The film screening is part of the museum’s Sandra and Mendel Rosenberg Film Series. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit stlholocaustmuseum.org.

were raised not to steal, not to kill and not to lie, had to break their own beliefs to survive. We end up seeing extraordinary bravery, self-control, resiliency and loyalty. And so, the film in many ways sort of flips ‘the lambs to the slaughter’ narrative, to another interpretation, which is much more accurate.”

What to know before you watch

This film is told in an oral history style, through the voices of the eight former partisans sharing their accounts of wartime survival, accompanied by some remarkable archival images of the partisans in action.

In viewing “Four Winters” the filmgoer should know the film is not merely a pas-

sive viewing experience but rather a journey that demands full immersion. This film was crafted for the big screen and meant to be viewed as a communal experience.

“So, on March 12, bring three friends or family members. Bring somebody younger and bring somebody older because it’s really an intergenerational and community experience to see this film,” said Mintz. “Afterwards you’ll be amazed at how different generations of viewers interpret what they saw.”

Mintz also says the film is created on different levels. There’s the historical, the

DIRECTED BY AMELIA ACOSTA POWELL

MARCH 19 –APRIL 7

performed at the

personal and the musical.

“The weaving of sound and music is quite wonderful. It’s inspired by historical rhythm, but it’s meaningful and the music sort of follows the narration as it weaves throughout the film, but it’s very, very subtle,” said Mintz.

All told, we suggest you focus on the storytelling as it reveals Mintz’s vision, that Holocaust stories, rightly or wrongly, routinely portray Jews as defenseless victims — not as armed partisans capable of blowing up a train or stabbing Nazis to death with makeshift knives.

HOW TO BUILD BETTER BONES: EVIDENCE BASED MANAGEMENT

BY: DR BETH TEMPLIN, PT, DPT, GCS GERIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPIST

re personally eoporosis or more about preventive measures, this event is designed to empower you with knowledge and resources to take control of your bone health journey

Osteoporosis affects millions of individuals worldwide It is often referred to as the "silent disease" because it progresses without any symptoms until a fracture occurs, making awareness and prevention crucial

Unfortunately there is so much misinformation out there about osteoporosis, and how to best manage it How do you know what you should really be focusing on?

Topics covered:

What causes osteoporosis in the first place

Why you need strong bones to prevent fractures

How effective medications are at slowing down the progression

The top exercises for improving bone health

The best foods for healthy bones & the ones to avoid

When: March 15th at 2:30 pm

Where: 3809 Lemay Ferry Rd, 63125

*Attend in-person or join us online from your home Call ut at (314) 939-1377 to register Space is limited

At HouseFit, we help adults 55+ maximize their independence and fitness, so they can continue to enjoy a full and active life

Join us for an in-depth discussion on the management of osteoporosis Walk away with a better understanding of the most up to date recommendations Learn how to make simple changes to your daily routine and diet for improved bone he alth You may be surprised by what you learn

Filmmaker Julia Mintz interviews Mike Stoll for “Four Winters: A Story of Jewish Partisan Resistance and Bravery in WWII,’ which will be shown at the Holocaust Museum on March 12.

HOWARD MICHAEL ACKERMAN died peacefully in hospice care on February 29, 2024, with his loving family gathered around him.

Howard was born on August 20, 1940 in Denver, Colorado. He graduated from Denver University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and subsequently studied at the graduate business school before being promoted at Edison Company and moving to their home office in St. Louis. Howard was dedicated to his work and for decades he led the purchasing department of a large chain of upscale hotels in major cities across the United States until his retirement in 2017.

The true highlight of Howard’s life was spending 62 wonderful years married to the love of his life, Barbara. They first met in 1957 at a wedding when a cousin took it upon herself to change the seating chart, putting Howard and Barbara next to each other. They were married on July 15, 1962, and soon had a daughter Gayle and son Aric.

Howard was preceded in death by his father Joseph, mother Julie, and sister Sharlene. He is survived by his wife Barbara, his children Gayle and Aric, and his four grandchildren Aric, Alex, Max, and Paige.

A memorial service was held at St. Andrew’s Estates on March 5, 2024 in Boca Raton. Memorial contributions preferred to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, https://give.michaeljfox.org/give/421686#!/ donation/checkout

DORA KOLKER, February 23, 2024

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

BARRY A. LASKY, February 18, 2024

Barry was a bright light in the lives of his cherished family, each of whom was flawless under his doting gaze. As the Chief Creative Genius of Hi Ho Helio, he brought joy, amazement, and sincere appreciation to literally thousands of families who trusted him to lend his many talents to life’s most special occasions for over thirty years.

Howard spent much of his life living in St. Louis, rooting for the Cardinals, and was deeply involved in the Jewish community as a devoted member of the Congregation Shaare Emeth. Howard played an important role as part of the committee tasked with designing the new synagogue in Creve Coeur, notably having the vision to advocate for Shaare Emeth to commission stained glass windows from a young Dale Chihuly. Following his retirement, Howard and Barbara relocated to Boca Raton, where Howard was deeply admired by his fellow community members at St. Andrew’s Estates.

Beloved wife of the late J. Bernard Kolker; dear mother and mother-in-law of Linda Morgan (Ross), Ellen Kaplan (Robert) and Karen Noss (Arthur); dear grandmother of Jonathan Morgan, Emily Morgan (Derek Young), Lori Morgan (Edward Stevens), Aaron Kaplan (Lisa), Jordan Kaplan (Buffy), Courtney Kaplan Cohen (Daniel) and Nathaniel Noss (Yestie); dear greatgrandmother of Henry and Alice StevensMorgan, Julia and Charlie Kaplan, Ada and Olive Kaplan, Tillie Cohen and Yehoshua Noss; dear sister and sister-in-law of the late Frank Specter, the late Paul Specter (Thelma) and the late Abe Specter. Dear aunt, cousin and friend.

A graveside service was held Monday, February 26 at Chesed Shel Emeth CemeteryWhite Road. Memorial contributions preferred to Magen David Adom.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

However, it was sixteen years ago that Barry found his one true calling…that of a Zayde. Nothing brought him more joy or better utilized his boundless love, quick wit, limitless patience, and joie de vivre than being a grandfather to Raisa, Zachary, and Asher. He even had business cards printed up with this new title! Barry’s devotion to his grandchildren was reciprocated in spades. We know, without question, that Zayde will continue to be a guiding light and gentle hand as they move through life’s challenges and celebrate the joyous events to come.

Beloved husband of Ellen Mallen Lasky for over fifty years; treasured father of Jeremy (Michelle) Lasky and Amy (Jason) Pollock; cherished grandfather of Asher Lasky, Zachary Pollock, and Raisa Lasky; devoted brother of Jack (late Dolores) Lasky, Harvey (Cynthia) Lasky, Trudi (late Marty) Rosenfeld, Stuart Lasky, and Phylis (late Thomas) Hennessy. Adoring son of the late Max and Mollie Lasky; steadfast uncle, cousin, and friend to all, including his biweekly poker group of fifty years.

A Graveside Service was held Tuesday, February 20 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Rd, 63017.

Visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

HOWARD JAY SCHLANSKY, adored husband, father, poppy, brother, uncle, pediatrician and friend to many, died unexpectedly Wednesday, February 28. He was 69 years old.

love of his life. The two would be celebrating their 42nd wedding anniversary this week. Howard was skilled in both medicine and business, and approached his practice with the mind of an entrepreneur. Upon completing his residency, he saw an opportunity to meet needs in a rapidly developing area of St. Charles County. He turned down an offer to join his father’s medical practice in St. Louis, and opened a pediatric clinic, strategically placed next to an obstetrician’s office, and near fast food restaurants and churches, which he saw as signs of a burgeoning community. Howard was a beloved pediatrician to generations of patients at Saint Charles County Pediatrics, which he operated for more than 30 years. He ultimately developed a medical complex around that clinic to provide a breadth of services for patients in the area.

In 2012, he became the Medical Director of Pediatrics at Mercy. In that role, he continued to innovate, and was particularly proud to have created the first ADA accessible playground in St. Charles County. He also was a contributing columnist for the Healthy Kids column in the St. Louis Post Dispatch, and a camp doctor at Olin Sang Ruby Union Institute.

Howard was an avid gardener, bird watcher and baseball fanatic. He cheered passionately for the St. Louis Cardinals, Cape Cod league teams and any minor league team he could fit into a road trip. He was an ice cream connoisseur, hiker, skier, camper and frequent visitor to home-improvement stores. He enjoyed long family strolls on the beach and walks around the neighborhood with his beloved goldendoodle Riley.

Howard served the community on the boards of Make-a-Wish Foundation and Congregation Temple Israel. He was a docent for the St. Louis Aquarium, and volunteered regularly at Hillel and Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, where his grandchildren are students.

Above all else, Howard loved doting on his wife, children and grandchildren, and was the ultimate handyman, protector and cheerleader for each of them.

Howard was born and raised in St. Louis, the middle son of Siril and Seymour Schlansky. After graduating from Parkway Central High School, he was admitted to the first class of UMKC’s six-year medical school program. He completed a residency in pediatrics at St. Louis Children’s Hospital where he spotted a beautiful social work practicum student and asked a mutual friend to introduce them. That student, Carol Rubin, became the

In addition to his wife Carol, Howard is survived by his daughters Rebecca RubinSchlansky (Mike Vredenburgh) and Hannah Rubin-Schlansky (Rabbi Andrew Terkel); grandchildren Ada and Celia Vredenburgh, and Avi and Micah Terkel; brothers Arnold (Bonnie) of Florida and Steve (Mindy) of St. Louis; siblingsin-law Amy Rubin Schottland (Dr. Paul Schottland) of New Jersey and Dr. David Rubin of New York; and many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service was held Sunday, March 3 at Congregation Shaare Emeth, 11645 Ladue Road, 63141.  Interment followed at New Mount Sinai Cemetery, 8430 Gravois Road, 63123.

Memorial contributions may be made to Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, 348 S. Mason Road, St. Louis, MO 63141, or the organization of your choice. Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

MELFORD J. “MEL” SPIEGELGLASS, February 25, 2024

A beloved husband, father and Papa, passed away after a long, courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Mel was born March 22, 1939 in St. Louis to Ann and Harold Spiegelglass. In 1960, he married Sharon Broderson and they were blessed with 63 years of marriage. Mel attended University City High School and then received his business degree from the University of Missouri. He was a member of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity, where he made lifelong friends.

After graduation, Mel joined his family business, Spiegelglass Construction Company, where he was proud to have worked beside his father, brother, and nephew; working there for nearly 50 years. Upon retiring, he loved volunteering for Oasis, mentoring children at the

American Flag symbol denotes a United States military veteran.

Kehrs Mill elementary school. He also served as a board member at Temple Israel and Meadowbrook Country Club.

Mel was a big fan of the Cardinals, Blues and eventually the KC Chiefs. He looked forward to his weekly golf and poker games with his buddies. He had a true zest for life and a great sense of humor. His most cherished moments were with his children, grandchildren and all of his family. He was a dedicated, kind, and loving man.

Mel is survived by his wife, Sharon; and children, Jill (David)

Shapiro, Stacy (Sandy)

Cohen; grandchildren

Abby (James) Gibson, Matthew and Ryan Shapiro, Taylor and Jamie Cohen; and siblings, Stephen (Clare) Spiegelglass, Laurie (Bruce) Glazier, Barry (Renee) Spiegelglass; and many special nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held Wednesday, February 28 at Temple Israel, 1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive followed by interment at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road.   Live stream of the funeral service available at www. rindskopfroth.com. Contributions in Mel’s memory may be made to the Spiegelglass Camp Fund, C/O JCC, 2 Millstone Campus Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146; American Parkinson Disease Association, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306; or to the charity of your choice.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service

ARTHUR “ART” WEINBERG, born in St. Louis on March 12, 1949, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024.

Beloved husband of Marsha Marion Weinberg; dear father and father-in-law of Michael (Shenee Booth) Weinberg, Jayme Beth Weinberg, Daniel (Melissa) Weinberg; grandfather of Alice, Elizabeth, Jaylee, Lilyanna, William and Waylon; brother and brother-in-law Marleen (late Irv) Chinsky, Barry (Linda) Weinberg, Joel (Carol)

Marion and Jay (Carol)

Marion; dear son of the late Jerome and Sylvia Weinberg; dear uncle, cousin and friend to many.

Art, or Abba if you knew him well, lived a full life. Sometimes a hard life, but most times a great life.

Art was devoted to his family of his wife, three children, and 6 grandchildren. Being a younger sibling himself to Marlene and Barry. He had a strong relationship with his siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews, often putting family ahead of friendships and his career.

Art made time for his friends, especially for the Apartment group. Having weekly “board meetings” till the end. They were always having

OBITUARIES

a good time. His best friend was his wife Marsha with whom he hung out with every night of his life since they married back in 1980. They always kissed and hugged each other goodnight, no matter what they may have been bickering about during the day.

Art was a man who wore many hats throughout his life. From a lifeguard at the JCC, to the McDonalds Drive-in, serving his country as an Army Reservist, to a school bus driver, at NASA doing electrical work, multiple restaurants, and just making deals on a few cases of freezer mugs then going to sell them at the flea market. He found a passion in commercial cleaning, and eventually running his own business, Diamond Pro Clean. This gave him 25 years of success. Throughout his career he always gave his customers his best, and valued being his own boss.

A graveside service was held Monday, February 26 at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Rd. 63017.  There was a Celebration of Life at American Legion Hall Post #397 at 934 E Rue De La Banque, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 directly after service.

Memorial contributions preferred to Stray Rescue of St. Louis

Visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

DR. ALAN WEISS, a renowned cardiologist who provided 50 years of service to his patients at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, passed away on February 5, 2024. Dr. Weiss grew up in Columbus, Ohio. He was the son of Florence and Edward Weiss and the eldest of four brothers.

He is survived by his wife Marcia, three children Mark (Baila-Sara), Rachel (Ephraim), and Sarah (Todd), 16 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and his three brothersBob, Steve (Lisa), and Mike (Robyn).

Alan was inspired to be a physician from a young age, as he witnessed his father struggling with Crohn’s Disease. Dr. Weiss was married to his wife, Marcia (Burstein), for 57 years. He graduated with honors in 1966 from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. After an internship at Ohio State, Alan was selected for a coveted clinical research position at the National Institute of Health: National Heart Institute. Dr. Weiss then completed his residency at Washington University in St. Louis under the tutelage of the renowned Dr. Carl Moore. Alan was then chosen for a prestigious fellowship in Cardiology at University California San Francisco.  In 1972, at the personal request of Dr. Moore, Dr. Weiss returned to Washington University to serve as Chief Resident in the Department of Internal Medicine. He then joined the faculty at Washington University for 4 years before deciding to develop a flourishing private

OBITUARIES INDEX

Ackerman, Howard Michael

Kolker, Dora

Lasky, Barry A.

Schlansky, Howard Jay

Spiegelglass, Melford J. “Mel”

Weinberg, Arthur “Art”

Weiss, Dr. Alan

practice in 1976. In the early 1980s, Dr. Weiss also served as the attending physician for the St. Louis Symphony on European tours. In 1993, Dr. Weiss decided to return to Washington University where he was appointed as a Professor of Medicine, a position he held for almost 30 years.

In 1987, with the encouragement of his wife, Dr. Weiss began his journey to become an observant Jew. During this process, Dr. Weiss was recognized amongst many leading rabbinical figures throughout the world. He was gifted with the ability to connect with patients from all walks of life, using a holistic approach that considered not only their physical health, but their spiritual well-being as well. Dr. Weiss did not leave work without thanking his team for their support. When Dr. Weiss announced his retirement, he emphasized his gratitude to his patients for their insights while trusting him with their health. In return, he was flooded with hundreds of personal handwritten letters thanking him for the manner in which he provided care. He ultimately retired during COVID because he felt that he could no longer provide the in-person, patient-centered quality of care so critical to his practice.

As his partner in Medicine for more than 40 years, Dr. Scott Nordlicht wrote: ‘Forever selfless, always seeking to help anyone in any shape or form, whether as a doctor or friend, was Alan’s pleasure and trademark. Few in St Louis, Illinois or Jerusalem have not been graced by Dr. Weiss’ efforts in one way or another. As a physician, Alan was the greatness of medicine playing out in real time. He was everyone’s safety net: patients, doctors, colleagues, family, friends. With his passing, so passes an era where the clinician was everything to everyone In our home we always debated who was a true bona fide hero, which we defined as a person who by their very presence and actions inspires us to become a better version of ourselves. Very few people met this criterion.

Alan was one, and as such, this striving to be better shall be one of his many enduring legacies For over forty years, Dr. Weiss was the greatest partner, friend and religious mentor anyone could wish for. When I met him the first day I came to St. Louis, little did I know I had won the lottery of life. Nonjudgmental, fiercely loyal, always positive and soft spoken, Alan’s deeds will continue to influence us the rest of our days.’

As children of Dr. Weiss, our father truly exemplified the concept of leading by example. He modeled how to make each person he interacted with feel as if they were the only person in the room. He showed us what it meant to live a life of commitment, caring, charity and Judaism. Our father would drop anything to prioritize us. Although the three of us are very different, he truly embraced each of us for who we are. He made it crystal clear that we were the center of his world.

As the wife of Dr. Weiss, my husband and I always worked as a team. From the very start of his practice, we worked side-by-side when I ran his office. I traveled with him as he developed his career and learned early on the need to be flexible. Starting from almost nothing, his practice flourished until it became one of the largest in the country, admitting more patients to Barnes Hospital than any other provider. Despite the hectic schedule, we had loads of fun together as well as with our children. My husband was an incredible physician, and a Torah-observant Jew with a kind and caring soul. There really are no words to describe the impact he had on so many people.

On his deathbed, my husband and our children’s beloved father was completely at peace, knowing that the day of his death was precisely 36 years from the first Sabbath he ever kept, ending on precisely the same Torah Portion where he began his journey. He was intensely spiritual, but pragmatic and loved us all deeply. We feel so privileged to have been his family and can only hope to continue to make him proud in the years to come.

There will be a memorial service on the evening of March 7th at 7:30 PM, at Torah Prep Girls School, 8136 Groby Road University City, MO 63130.

If you would like to make a donation to honor Dr. Weiss’ memory, please send all donations to The St. Louis Kollel online at stlkollel.com/donate

REMEMBERING

Marilyn Fox

JULY 29, 1934 – FEBRUARY 18, 2024

“

To be a strong leader, it is important to be a good friend. Truly listen and show others that you genuinely care and value their thoughts and ideas. Most importantly, a good leader is always dedicated to the pursuit of helping others.”

—Marilyn Fox

One of our community’s brightest lights has passed.

Marilyn Fox exemplified this community to so many for so many years. Marilyn was a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable in our community and took on countless leadership roles across the Jewish and broader communities. She set the tone for many, and her remarkable achievements live on today through her deeds and support.

May Marilyn’s memory serve as a blessing, and life serve as an example, for all of us.

FEATURES

ARTS AND CULTURE FOOD HOLIDAYS LIFESTYLES

Where Jewish St. Louisans can go to find homemade hamantaschen

JORDAN PALMER CHIEF DIGITAL CONTENT OFFICER

As Purim approaches (at sundown March 23), anticipation is building for all the vibrant festivities and delicious treats that the holiday brings. Among the most beloved symbols of this joyous holiday is the hamantaschen, a triangular pastry filled with various sweet fillings, representing the defeat of the villainous Haman.

In St. Louis, locals eagerly seek out these delectable delights made from scratch, embracing the tradition with every bite. From local bakeries to community events, St. Louisans can indulge in the authentic flavors of Purim, savoring the timeless sweetness of hamantaschen while celebrating the triumph of good over evil.

Toby’s Challa House & Bake Shop

Toby Elefant has been baking hamantaschen for more than 30 years. The University City resident who runs her business, Toby’s Challa House & Bake

Shop, out of her home enjoys making the three-sided pastries because they are for Purim, “a beautiful yontif [holiday],” she said.

“It’s the day that all of Israel was saved from being annihilated. It’s a very special time of simcha, happiness,” said Elefant, a member of Agudas Israel of St. Louis, an Orthodox congregation.

Elefant uses a recipe she got from a friend she met during elementary school in Far Rockaway, N.Y.

This year, she is offering a variety of flavors of her certified kosher and pareve hamantaschen: chocolate, lemon, raspberry, apple, apricot, Bavarian cream and new this year, caramel. The cost is $16/lb.

Orders must be placed by no later than March 17 to ensure availability. To order or for more information, call 314-2816781 or email tchchalla@gmail.com.

Delectable Dough

Delectable Dough Bakery is located inside the Trolley Stop Bakery at 67 Forum Shopping Center in Chesterfield.

Jodie Bertish and her team are busy baking hamantaschen again this year, along with their acclaimed old-fashioned apple strudel and other fruit varieties, as well as other sweets.

This year’s hamantaschen flavors include apple, apricot, cherry, strawberry funfetti, chocolate, prune, and poppy. Gluten-free and vegan options are available by special request.

You can pick up your hamantashen at the bakery now through Sunday, March 31st as their display case will be filled.

You can also purchase a variety pack of two apple, two apricot, and two cherry at the following Schnucks stores during March: Des Peres, Ladue, Lindbergh and Richmond Heights. Delectable Dough Bakery is accepting orders on their website at delectabledough.com, or email delectabledoughbakingco@gmail. com or by calling 314-537-2341

Just like Mom’s bakery

The mother-daughter team of Peggy

AMY FENSTER BROWN

Teen sons’ road trip chats offer mom a dose of humor

BY AMY FENSTER BROWN

Cute story — a few months ago we were on a family trip, driving from Flagstaff, Ariz., to the Grand Canyon when the following scene played out between my teenage sons.

AAANNNDDD ACTION!

Leo – Will there be signs saying we are at the Grand Canyon?

Davis – Uh, I think you’ll know it when you see it.

AAANNNDDD SCENE!

An hour later we stopped at a gas station for a potty break, when more brilliant banter happened.

AAANNNDDD ACTION!

Leo – Are we there?

Davis – Bro.

AAANNNDDD SCENE!

You probably have similar stories, where your kids say the darndest things. Parents have so many different types of prideful moments — good grades, sports successes, expectations exceeded. Other times we have heartwarming feelings when we see our kids hold the door for someone, do a kind deed, look an adult in the eye while having an actual conversation.

For some of us, hearing our kids make a hilarious joke or sarcastic quip with perfect comedic timing sparks such joy they might as well have gotten a positive letter sent home from the principal. It’s fascinating watching how our children’s brains work.

Think about times you’ve seen your kids walk up to their friends’ parents at a school function just to say hello. Maybe you’ve overheard them say one of your many famous parent catchphrases like, “If you stay ready you don’t have to get ready.” They heard you! They paid attention! They searched the files of their brains for a lesson you taught them and carried it out on their own! The nachas are flowing and you’re left kvelling like you’ve never kvelled before.

Then, of course, they turn right around with a comment that’s a real head scratcher, like Davis did as we drove through the mountains.

AAANNNDDD ACTION!

Davis – If a bear came up to us, I would want to save Leo, so I would let the bear eat me. But the problem would be that

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.

FEATURES

Arts inspire openness to new ways of seeing the world

BY NANCY KRANZBERG

People ask all the time where I come up with ideas for my commentaries. What follows is a good example of how I string ideas together.

I went to see an exhibition of photography by Ken Konchel at the Kranzberg Art Gallery in Grand Center. Konchel is a St. Louis-based artist whose works have been shown in 19 cities around the country, so he’s clearly not just a local artist.

He refers to himself as an “Abstracted Architectural Photographer” who wants us to look at lines, colors, shadows and shapes and not the actual buildings. He also talks about his methods and processes and the fact that he still uses film in his work.

My next trip to see an art show took place in my favorite smallish museum, the Palm Springs (Calif.) Art Museum Architecture and Design Center. It was another show of photography by the artist, Kali, who refers to herself as an “Artographer.”

Kali, who changed her name from Joan Archibald, was a suburban housewife with two kids living on Long Island. In the 1960s, she walked out of her home and never returned.

She ended up in Malibu, Calif., and changed her name to Kali after the Hindu goddess who represented time, change, creation, power and destruction. A year later her mother bought her a home in Palm Springs where she became a photographer and used her swimming pool

as a massive finishing tank: after developing her prints in a giant Roman bathtub, she would toss the freshly developed images into the pool with buckets of dye, applying final touches of bugs and dessert sand. She would then swim among the prints to hand cure the colorization. Finally, she would hang them on the deck to dry.

Kali packed these photos into suitcases that she stored away, and they were not seen again for 40 years.

I then thought about a wonderful exhibition of photographs by Vivian Maier in St. Louis at the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum several years ago and sure enough, she was discussed in

a book on Kali.

Kali’s daughter, Susan, in a transcript, says, “Since the discovery of the photographs of Vivian Maier, and the posthumous publication and celebration of her work, the thrilling prospect of finding other unknown or forgotten masters of the art form has more than ever been in the back of many aesthetes mind. The particular excitement derives from the utter improbability that there could be complete archives of unsung masters out there, either in attics or the cupboards of horder houses, or as was the case with Maier, in a neglected storage unit whose contents were put up for auction.”

Both of these artists became sensations

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.

when there works were discovered.

I then walked into the other special exhibition at the Palm Springs museum and saw yet another fascinating show entitled “Mythopoetica,” which connected in my mind to the “Kali” exhibition. Both of these shows showcased different aspects of the inland southern California region.

Mythopoetica features the work of 10 contemporary artists who incorporate mythologies, iconographies and cultural codes to create new visual imaginings. They use diverse mediums such as photography, painting, sculpture and video to draw attention to the multiplicity of powerful stories that permeate the region.

So how does this ramble connect? Well, in my mind these are examples of how creative, artistic people can use art in many different ways by cultivating unique processes to help us open ourselves up to other ways of thinking and seeing the world.

Your guide to this year’s (Jewish) Oscar nominees

BY NATE BLOOM

SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

The Oscars will be presented on Sunday, March 10 (6 p.m. on ABC). The Governors’ Awards (honorary Oscars) were presented last November. MEL BROOKS, 97, was one of the three awardees. He gave an amusing short speech (on Youtube).

Here are the Jewish nominees in all but the more technical categories such as costumes, make-up and sound.

This is the oddest year I’ve ever seen. No Jewish actor or actress was nominated for playing a non-Jew and five actors/actresses were nominated for playing “real” Jews. But only one of the five has a “claim” to being Jewish.

In the best actor category, there is Cillian Murphy as physicist J. ROBERT OPPENHEIMER in “Oppenheimer” and Bradley Cooper as LEONARD BERNSTEIN in “Maestro.”

Carey Mulligan, a best actress nominee, played FELICIA MONTEALGRE BERNSTEIN (Leonard’s wife) in “Maestro” and Jodie Foster, a supporting actress nominee, is up for playing BONNIE STOLL (now 71), Diana Nyad’s swim coach in “Nyad.”

That leaves ROBERT DOWNEY Jr., 58, a supporting actor nominee. He’s nominated for playing LEWIS STRAUSS, a government official, in “Oppenheimer.” Downey’s mother was not Jewish. His paternal grandfather was Jewish, and his paternal grandmother had a Jewish mother.

Downey’s father, the late director Robert Downey, Sr., was born Robert Elias. He took the name of his stepfather (Downey). In 1992, Downey, Jr. said Downey, Sr. changed his name to enlist, underage, in the army. In a 2022 documentary, Downey, Sr. said he changed his name to avoid

antisemitism in the service. (Robert, Jr. has a tattoo that says “Elias.”)

No doubt, Downey, Jr.’s ties to “Jewishness” were greatly enhanced by his (2005) marriage to SUSAN LEVIN DOWNEY, now 50. She was an important producer when they wed in a Jewish ceremony. They have a son, EXTON, 12 (his middle name is Elias) and a daughter, AVRI (a Hebrew name). She’s 9.

After their marriage, Downey, Jr. began calling himself “Jew-Bu” (Jewish and Buddhist).

Best Original Screenplay: “Anatomy of a Fall” (a French language, legal murder mystery film), was co-written by nominee ARTHUR HARARI, 42. Harari’s paternal Sephardi grandfather was born in Egypt and became a well-known French actor. With help, I found out that Arthur Harari’s parents are Jewish, too.

Also in the original screenplay category are JOSH SINGER, 52, the co-writer of

“Maestro” and SAMY BURCH, 36, for co-writing “May December.”

Best adapted screenplay: NOAH BAUMBACH , 54, is nominated for co-writing “Barbie.” His father is Jewish.

Also in the adapted screenplay category is JONATHAN GLAZER , 58, a British Jew, for “The Zone of Interest,” a film about the Holocaust (loosely based on a novel). Glazer, who also directed “Zone,” is the only Jew to be nominated, this year, for the best director Oscar. The Oscar for best non-English language film goes to the film’s director (and “Zone” is a non-English nominee).

Best Score: LAURA KARPMAN, 64, for “American Fiction” and ROBBIE ROBERTSON, who died last August, for “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Robertson was famous as the lead and chief songwriter for The Band. Robertson’s mother was of a member of the Cayuga and Mohawk tribes. He was 12 when he found

out that his father, who died before his birth, was Jewish.

Best Original Song: DIANE WARREN, 67, for “The Fire Inside” from “Flamin’ Hot.” Warren has been nominated 15 times for an Oscar, and has never won— and MARK RONSON, 48, the co-writer of “I’m Just Ken” from the movie “Barbie.” He won (2019) the original song Oscar as the co-writer of “Shallow” from “A Star is Born.”

The nominees for best animated (feature) films are a hodgepodge of animators and producers. AMY PASCAL, 65, a top veteran producer, is up with four others for “Spiderman—”Across the Spider-Verse.”

“Letter of a Pig” is nominated in the short (length) animated film category. It begins with a Holocaust survivor telling a group of teen students how a pig saved his life. It then shows the story’s profound effect on one student. The film was directed and written by TAL KANTOR, 35, an Israeli. Her co-nominee is Israeli AMIT RUSSELL GICELTER, 42, the film’s producer.

SHEILA NEVINS, 84, is one of the two nominated directors of “The ABCs of Book Banning.” This short documentary Oscar nominee follows the banning of books in schools (especially Florida).

EDWARD LACHMAN, 76, is nominated for the Oscar for cinematography (“El Conde,” a black comedy/horror film).

The best film Oscar goes to a nominated film’s principal producers. There are 10 nominated films and a lot of producers. My practice is not to work very hard to verify if they are Jewish. Here are the ones I am sure of: FRED BERNER , 70, and STEVEN SPIELBERG, 77; “Maestro”; DAVID HEYMAN, 62 (Jewish father), “Barbie” and CHARLES ROVEN, 74, “Oppenheimer.”

Robert Downey Jr. portraying Lewis Strauss in ‘Oppenheimer.’ PHOTO: UNIVERSAL PICTURES

The real estate market can be confusing and overwhelming so finding the right professionals is crucial to making the homebuying process smooth.

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Q&A with Beth Manlin

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A: We will begin by touring your home, learning about everything you have done over the years to care for your home, and things you know need attention. Then, put together a market valuation taking into consideration the current market, location, school district, & the condition of your home. Next, my marketing team will create a customized marketing plan to target specific Buyers for your home through data mining and advertise your home on hundreds of sites, international press outlets, and local targeted campaigns featuring your home.

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Connect with me for a consultation.

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SIMCHAS

BIRTHS ENGAGEMENTS WEDDINGS MITZVOT

SUBMIT YOUR SIMCHA ANNOUNCEMENT FOR FREE!

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT: SPENCER JACOB WILDMAN

Laura and Ben Wildman of St. Louis would like to announce the birth of their son, Spencer Jacob Wildman, on Nov. 30, 2023, weighing 6 pounds, 7 ounces.

Spencer is the grandson of Stuart and Kathi Rosenberg of St. Louis, and Jan and Mary Jo Wildman of Chicago. He is the great-grandson of Jerry and the late Sondra Kootman of St. Louis, the late Mendel and Sandra Rosenberg of St. Louis, Rochelle and the late Paul Wildman of Boulder, Colo., and Joyce and the late Joe Bernstein of Chicago.

Spencer has one brother, Mason, who is 20 months old.

BAR MITZVAH: ADAM WAHL

Adam Wahl, son of Debbie and Aaron Wahl of Chesterfield, became a bar mitzvah in January 2024 at United Hebrew Congregation.

Adam is the grandson of the late David and Vicki Plengemeier, and Ian Wahl of St. Louis. Adam has one sister, Rachel, who is 15.

A seventh-grade student at Parkway Central Middle School, Adam enjoys playing baseball and basketball.

MAYER-MERRITT ENGAGEMENT

Natalie Mayer and Clayton Merritt have announced their engagement.

Natalie is the daughter of Robert Mayer and Sue Goodman of Dixon, Mo., and David and Diane Rich of Efrat, Israel.

Clayton is the son of Richard and Sandra Merritt of Ladue.

Natalie and Clayton are both graduates of Ladue High School. Natalie graduated from University of Missouri in Columbia, and Clayton graduated from University of San Diego. After traveling the United States and Europe together, they have returned to live in St Louis.

An April 2024 wedding is planned.

HARTMAN-BROWN ENGAGEMENT

Noah Hartman, son of Brad and Margie Hartman of St. Louis, and Kailey Brown, daughter of Jeff and Chrissy Brown of St. Louis, have announced their engagement.

Noah is the grandson of Rachel and the late Maurice Guller of St. Louis, and Gloria and the late Howard Hartman of Boca Raton, Fla.

Kailey is the granddaughter of Michael and the late Patricia McCauley, and Sandy and the late Tim Blomker, all of St. Louis.

Noah graduated from Parkway North High School and the University of Alabama, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degrees in history and business.

Kailey graduated from Parkway North, and she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Missouri, and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver.

The couple met during their freshman year of high school and stayed close friends for all four years. They started dating right after graduation in 2016 when they realized their friendship had grown into something more. “Even though we had already chosen different colleges, we continued to choose each other all throughout college,” said Kailey, “just like we do now.”

Noah proposed in November 2023 at the Missouri Botanical Garden. He planned a perfect date right at sunset. He proposed in a romantic spot in the boxwood garden under the gazebo, followed by a

HKF

WILLIAMS-BLOCK WEDDING

Matthew Williams and Emily Block were married Jan. 13, 2024 in Deerfield, Ill., where Rabbi Carnie Rose officiated.

Matthew is the son of Rick and Marcy Williams of St. Louis, and the grandson of Maurice Williams of St. Louis.

Emily is the daughter of Steve and Leslie Block of Deerfield, Ill., and the granddaughter of Howard and Lois Cain, and Judith Block, all of Highland Park, Ill.

Matthew and Emily enjoyed a honeymoon in Australia (catching the Australian Open) and Bali.

The couple resides in Chicago.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRI WHITMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER GOLDENBERG

beautiful photography session to capture the moment. A spring 2025 wedding is planned.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LILLY PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: LISA MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

JEWISH LITE

JEWISH CROSSWORD PUZZLE

By Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

“Cooking Competitions” Difficulty: Easy | Puzzle answers online: bit.ly/0306-crossword

Across

1. Big group of ordained Jews, for short

4. Cow sound

7. Abraham had ten of them

13. European mountain

14. Many a digital file

15. John ___, iconic character in “The Breakfast Club”

16. One making edible dreidels?

18. Oscar winners Hunt and Mirren

19. Baseball star Turner

20. Not that bright

22. Mineo of “Exodus”

23. They don’t tell the truth

25. Babka vs. Kokosh and

Meltaway vs. Streusel, e.g.?

29. Shemonah ___

30. Class for aliens, for short

31. “The King and I” country

32. Lion of the stars

34. Country of 10-Down, Abbr.

36. Affront, slangily

37. Where food is prepared in Gehinnom?

41. Aviv preceder

42. One cheering

43. “Avatar” actress Saldana

44. Ending for “buck” or “stink”

46. Beats in the ring, for short

48. Grabs hold of

52. Fight over the shish kebabs and pastrami burgers?

54. Hide, as loot

55. Take unfair advantage of

56. USD alternative in the Holy Land

58. Major or Minor in the sky

59. Monty Python notable

62. Understood a gemara or used an axe?

64. Evan with a cast on Broadway?

65. Musicians often have a good one

66. “Do I take that as ___?”

67. Dawn

68. Kfar Aza to Ofakim dir.

69. Do some stitching

Down

1. Maraca, essentially

2. Leachman of “Young Frankenstein”

3. Come into view

4. Speed limit meas.

5. Knesset member Forer or actor Fehr

6. Scranton sitcom, with “The”

7. “Frankly speaking,” initially

8. Witherspoon of “Walk the Line”

9. Isaac and Rebecca, to Rachel and Leah

10. City 450 miles northwest from Melbourne

11. Reality TV judge Goodman

12. Yearbook VIPs

17. Beloved star of 6-Down

21. Parsha often doubled with Matot

24. Place to put an

award, maybe

26. One who trips a lot

27. It’s unwanted on Sukkot...even if we pray for it

28. Texting letters

33. Industrial Japanese city

PURIM AMY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Umansky and Alana Minoff offer madeto-order homemade hamantaschen flavored on the doughy outside as well as the inside filling.

Pastry flavors include vanilla, chocolate, chocolate chip and rainbow while filling flavors are poppyseed, fruit, s’mores, chocolate, chocolate chip, chocolate and peanut butter and savory.

They can do special requests. Minimum order of six, which costs $15; 12 for $30. Call 314-303-0861 to order and for details or email alanaminoff@ gmail.com. Pick-up in Olivette or

Chesterfield. Their hamantaschen are not kosher.

Sprinkles by Miriam

Miriam Schwab will be whipping up vanilla and chocolate dough hamantaschen with cherry, raspberry, brownie, chocolate chip cookie, prune, marshmallow, Biscoff, or apricot filling. She bakes in a kosher kitchen at home that is not Vaad-certified and charges $17 a pound, which translates into 10 or 11 hamantaschen. Orders can be placed by calling 561-542-4923 or emailing her at mmzschwab@yahoo.com. Pick-up in University City. Schwab is happy to bag or box any orders.

35. Highlanders

37. Basil or sage, e.g.

38. Silver-tongued

39. Generally recognized

40. Get leftovers ready

41. Bar bill

45. Dominate the thoughts of

47. Pie portion

49. Seder portion

50. Ancient Jewish monk

51. Follow covertly

53. Watch again

57. All of gemara

59. John of “Star Trek” films

60. Israel’s Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi Yisrael Meir

61. Giant Tolkien creature

63. Settlers of Catan resource

funny, well, that’s my icing on the cake.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Leo’s lazy butt probably couldn’t outrun the bear, even with the head start I gave him, and he’d get eaten, too. And then I’d be so freakin’ mad.

AAANNNDDD SCENE!

On one hand, I was so touched that he would sacrifice himself to save his little brother. On the other hand, I was not shocked that Davis figured out a way to insult Leo.

As a parent of teenagers, listening is of the utmost importance. It’s a real win when the stuff they say proves they’ve been listening to you, too. And if it’s

All of that said, sometimes the fruit of our loins will say something so ridiculous you really question their thought process.

Case in point: at the very end of that Arizona trip, Leo had a gem of an idea while boarding the plane home.

AAANNNDDD ACTION!

Leo – On the flight I’m going to watch that Boeing documentary.

Me – About the plane crashes?

Leo – Yes.

Me – While you’re riding on a Boeing plane?

Leo – Yeah, it makes it more like a thrill ride.

AAANNNDDD SCENE!

SP TLIGHT

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.

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY

VIEW MORE ONLINE: stljewishlight.org/multimedia

WOMEN’S NIGHT OF UNITY CONCERT

On Sunday, Jan. 28, the U.City Shul hosted 350+ Jewish women and girls who came together from across St. Louis for a Women’s Night Of Unity Concert. The performance was held at Catherine B. Berges Theatre (COCA). Performing was Chayala Neuhaus from New Jersey, one of the leading songwriters of modern-day Jewish music. The evening began with prayers for Israel and the night was spent with hundreds of Jewish women and girls singing and dancing together in unity. The evening concluded with a lavish kosher sushi and dairy buffet at U.City Shul. The event’s organizers were Rebbetzin Zelda Tendler and Idena Freedman.

CHAI LIGHTS

YOUR CALENDAR OF ST. LOUIS JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENTS

Editor’s note: All Mirowitz Center events are free unless otherwise noted. To register for a Mirowitz Center event, visit http://bit.ly/ Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email info@mirowitzcenter.org.

SUNDAY | MARCH 10

EMBY 28th anniversary dinner

Esther Miller Bais Yaakov High School will honor Rabbi Ze’ev and Chani Smason at its 28th Anniversary Dinner on March 10 at the Clayton Plaza Hotel, starting at 5 p.m. In addition, Zahava List will receive the Rabbi Gershon Zefren (z’’l) Alumni Leadership Award at the evening’s festivities. To RSVP and for more information, go to https:// www.embystl.org/dinner.

TUESDAY | MARCH 12

The Week in Review

From 10 to 11 a.m., join the Mirowitz Center for an online discussion of “The Week in Review,” moderated by Harvey Gerstein and Marilyn Alton. The series offers a forum for thoughtful discussion about the most pressing news stories of the week. Provided by FEL (Friends Enjoying Life), the Mirowitz Center men’s organization.

The ABCs of Judaism

From noon to 1 p.m., Rabbi Ze’ev Smason will continue his “ABCs of Judaism,” an in-person series at the Mirowitz Center (8 Millstone Campus Drive). No cost to attend, but RSVP is required. This month’s topic is “Five habits of incredibly interesting people.”

Online Rx drug resources

Overwhelmed by all the drug resources available? From 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., at the Mirowitz Center, Jim Salih will discuss MedlinePlus, GoodRX, FamilyWize and SingleCare, as well as tools for understanding drug costs, comparing pharmacy prices, and finding discounts and coupons.

WED. | MARCH 13

Staying safe online

From 1 to 2:30 p.m., there will be an in-person Mirowitz Center workshop providing tips for keeping personal information safe. With support from the Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Ages, the Mirowitz Center will provide a Chromebook computer for you to use during the program.

THURSDAY | MARCH 14

Jewish values in the theater

From 1 to 2 p.m. join the Mirowitz Center for the first of a five-part series introducing the upcoming New Jewish Theatre (NJT) season and exploring Jewish playwrights, characters and values. Each session also includes insights from NJT’s artistic team, discussions with a rabbi and a discount on play tickets. Free, but RSVP is required. The first session will look at “All My Sons” by Arthur Miller, with guest speakers Rebekah Scallet (Artistic Director of NJT) and Rabbi Brad Horwitz of the J.

Improv for life: A theater class

From 3 to 4 p.m., join the Mirowitz Center for an improvisation class with the New Jewish Theatre’s Rebekah Scallet. Whether you are new to improv or have some previous experience, this class will offer you a sup-

portive and playful environment to explore your creativity and have fun.

SUNDAY | MARCH 17

Family hamantashen party

Bring the whole family and have a blast making delicious hamantashen for Purim at 2:30 p.m. at the Aish Firehouse, 357 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield. The cost is $5 per person with a family limit of $15. For more information or to RSVP, call 314-8622474 or email cgoldstein@aishstl.com

Aish lecture on ‘Impact of the Holocaust on Sephardic Jewry’

Aish will welcome Isaac Amon for a talk on “Silence Reigns Around Us: The Shoah and Sepharad - The Impact of the Holocaust on Sephardic Jewry.” Amon is a descendant of Jews who fled Spain for the Ottoman Empire in 1492 as well as the director of academic research at Jewish Heritage Alliance. The event takes place at 7 p.m. at the Aish HaTorah Firehouse, 357 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield. Stay after the lecture for light refreshments. For more information, please call the Aish office at 314-862-2474 or email cgoldstein@aishstl.com

Green Purim bash at Kol Rinah

At 6 p.m., join Kol Rinah for an evening of dancing, drinks, hors d’oeuvres, costumes, cocktails, prizes and a lot of green Purim fun. For more information, visit kolrinahstl. org or call 314-727-1747.

Jewish War Veterans meeting

Jewish War Veterans Post 644 will meet in the Kaplan-Feldman Holocaust Museum at 10 a.m. on the third Sunday of each month (unless otherwise indicated). A Zoom option will be available for those not able to attend in person. For more information and the Zoom link contact Post 644 Commander Ellis Frohman at 636-519-7512.

TUESDAY | MARCH 19

Mamas in pajamas: Purim

Ladies, see Purim in a whole new light this year. At 8:30 p.m. join Aish’s Mimi David on Zoom from the comfort of your home for this Jewish Women’s Society Event (for women only). Go to zoom.us/j/9699246316 or dial in to 312-626-6799 and enter meeting ID 9699246316. For more information, contact the office at 314-862-2474 or email mimidavid@aishstl.com

MAR

‘The Soul, the Body and the Afterlife’

From noon to 1 p.m., Rabbi Ze’ev Smason will lead a free, in-person Mirowitz Center class looking at questions such as What is a “soul?” What happens after you die? Does Judaism believe in the afterlife? This is the first of a three-part series — attend one or all sessions – prior attendance not required. Future sessions are April 16 (Reincarnation and resurrection) and May 21 (Dreams –Messages from Afar?).

What’s up with the masks, hamantaschen & groggers?

From 2 to 3 p.m., at the Mirowitz Center, Rabbi Gidon Nitsun, director of Senior Kollel, will talk about the fun and mystical secrets of Purim. Deepen your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable holiday. Enjoy tasty hamantaschen courtesy of Senior Kollel, an organization providing intellectually stimulating, spiritually uplifting, and socially gratifying Jewish experiences for people ages 50+.

WED. | MARCH 20

Breast and ovarian cancer support group

This monthly group provides support, connection and education to women in the community who have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer and are anywhere along their treatment path – before, during, or post-treatment. Facilitated by Kathy Bearman, licensed clinical social worker, this group meets from 5:15 – 6:45 on the third Wednesday at the J near Creve Coeur. Newcomers are always welcome along with female family and friends. Light kosher dinner will be served. The Hamsa Wellness Community is a program at the J and a community partner of the national, not for profit Sharsheret organization. Free but pre-registration is requested to Debbi Braunstein at 314-442-3266 or dbraunstein@jccstl.org.

STARTING | MARCH 21

‘All My Sons’ at NJT

See related news brief on page 6.

FRIDAY | MARCH 22

Family Purim celebration with storyteller Betsy Mehlman

From 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the Mirowitz Center welcomes the community for a free, in-person (and intergenerational) Purim celebration. Betsy Mehlman’s lively tales make this holiday meaningful for all ages. Children,

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.

parents, grandparents, great-grandparents – all are welcome! Guests can come dressed in their favorite costumes, enjoy yummy hamentashen and celebrate the miracle of Purim. Co-sponsored by The J and PJ Library.

SATURDAY | MARCH 23

Purim Megillah reading at NHBZ

Bring your noisemakers and your entire family to hear the whole Megillah at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion at 8:45 p.m. All are invited, and costumes, merry-making and fun are highly encouraged! NHBZ membership is not required to attend. For more information, call 314-991-2100, ext. 2.

SUNDAY | MARCH 24

NHBZ magical seudah and Purim party

Purim continues at NHBZ with the second reading of the Megillah at 8:30 a.m. Then later that afternoon, put on your best Purim costume and enjoy a festive meal as the fun continues at 4:15 p.m. Audiences of all ages will be dazzled by a family-friendly magic show. Back by popular demand: Jackie’s Famous Whiskey Slush (for adults only). Live musical entertainment. This event is free and NHBZ membership is not required to attend. RSVPs are required by calling 314991-2100 or email to office@NHBZ.org

Family Purim celebration

From 10 a.m. to noon, Aish will offer a family Purim celebration. Kids can enjoy a Magic Show while the adults hear the Megillah. Then everyone meets for a delicious Purim seudah (brunch) with hamantashen of course. Cost is $8 per adult, $5 for kids (512), kids under 5 are free, $25 limit per family. No charge for Hebrew School students. Location: Epstein Hebrew Academy, 8645 Old Bonhomme Rd in Olivette. For more information or to rsvp, please call 314-8622474 or email cgoldstein@aishstl.com

STARTING | MARCH 27

‘Let it Ripple: A Spring Tikkun Middot Series’

Rabbi Andrea Goldstein and Eve Dyson will lead the Jewish Mindfulness Center’s “Let It Ripple: A Spring Tikkun Middot Series” on Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m., March 27, April 3 and 10. Tikkun Middot combines musar (ethical) study with mindfulness practices to bring deeper meaning to our daily lives and expand our understanding of what it means to be human. Free, but RSVPs are required. Participants must be able to attend all sessions. For more information or to register, call 314-569-0010or email Stacy Jespersen at sjespersen@sestl.org

ONGOING

Kol Chadash musical Shabbat service at Kol Rinah

This live prayer service will feature music with acoustic instruments, bringing together beautiful melodies and words of Torah to create a deep and moving prayer experience. Participants can come together at 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays at Kol Rinah to find spiritual meaning and fulfillment through music, harmony, joy and spirit. For more information, visit kolrinahstl.org or call 314727-1747.

New Jewish Theatre Artistic Director Rebekah Scallet

Isaac Amon speaks at Aish on March 17.