Jewish Light Digital Edition: Aug. 9, 2023

Bar & Bat Mitzvah

PAGES 1B - 16B

100 & counting

BY JEANNETTE COOPERMAN

If a director were filming a documentary about Gloria Gordon for her 100th birthday, they might start with her first job: organizing, at 22, a standing-room-only rally for President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, which led to a second job that captured the interest of Eleanor Roosevelt.

Or they might skip ahead to show Gordon in the 1960s, coordinating the now-famous Baby Tooth Survey, which gathered literal proof of radioactivity entering children’s bodies after aboveground tests of nuclear weapons. Or

skip way ahead to show her, at age 89, starting a new nonprofit to help older adults.

A chauvinistic director might make the mistake of spotlighting her husband of 30 years, Barry Commoner. Sure, he ran for U.S. president, and TIME magazine tagged him “the Paul Revere of ecology.” But “Gloria was a person in her own right, to put it mildly,” says Ben Senturia, who studied under Commoner and later worked as an activist alongside Gordon.

How would she start her life story? She wouldn’t make the documentary in the first place. She is unusually self-dismissive. Not in the coy way that begs for contradiction, but because

Jewish Federation’s vice chair of development on importance of Annual Campaign

she wants all eyes on the issues, and no individual can tackle them alone.

But if forced, she would probably start with her pony.

She was 8 years old, and the only time she’d ridden a pony was at a county fair, carefully lifted into the saddle and led around a circle. But now her dad had bought her Poppy, a pony of her own. The farmer who was stabling Poppy gave no lessons, just pointed little Gloria toward the paddock. When the pony threw her into a pile of snow and galloped back alone, the farmer said, “You get back on that pony and show her who’s boss.”

And so she did, and from then on, she and Poppy had no problems. They took the bridle paths through the woods, Gloria

loving the freedom of being out there all by herself, the respectful nods from other riders as they passed. Already, she was learning to navigate the world.

Acyclone of energy — what decides which direction it will blow?

Gordon’s first influence was her grandparents, Lithuanian Jews who fled to New York to escape persecution under the Russian tsar. From one grandfather, Gordon drew a love of nature; from the other, her abiding sense of humor. And from her mother’s mother, she received pure affection.

See 100 AND COUNTING on page 12A

Mid-Missouri mikvah: Coming soon to Columbia, Mo.

Mitzvah match: Who do you recognize from their bar/bat

photo?

This story was commissioned by the River City Journalism Fund.

Gloria Gordon celebrated her 100th birthday on Aug. 4, but she has much more on her mind than parties.

PHOTO: VIRGINIA HAROLD

Gloria Gordon just became a centenarian — but she had much more important things on her mind than her birthday

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Hoping for a second chance

It was one of those telephone calls that took me by surprise. Yelena GassBronstein had phoned from her Olivette home asking if the Jewish Light could help her find a new kidney.

Actually, she was asking for readers’ help; the Light was just a conduit. She said she is at end-stage kidney disease and in desperate need of a living kidney donor.

She had come to the United States from Ukraine in 1991, with her husband, their 6-year-old daughter, her parents and her mother-in-law.

“There were multiple reasons why we came,” she explained. “The Soviet Union was on the edge of collapsing, the political and economic situation was really unstable, and we wanted a better, more predictable, life for our daughter.”

Her husband had an uncle in St. Louis, which is why the family settled here. They stayed because they liked it.

Gass-Bronstein became an American citizen in 1996. She went to college to study nursing, became a registered nurse and spent 26 years as a psychiatric nurse at Barnes Hospital. She worked throughout COVID, she said, retiring earlier this year.

She told me she received a second chance for a better life by moving to the United States. Now, she is seeking a second chance at her own life. Her reasons are pretty simple.

“I am the glue to my family,” she said. “I want to take care of my husband, be available to my daughter, live life. Hopefully, if my health conditions improve, I can give back to society.”

If you are interested in knowing more, you can email her at kidney4yelena@ yahoo.com

Moveable feast

Jewish restauranteur Ben Poremba’s three Botanical Heights eateries — Elaia and Olio and Nixta — will close Dec. 31 and move next year to the Delmar Maker District, the area along Delmar between Union and Kingshighway, a block or so away from his most recent venture, Deli Divine.

In addition, Poremba, an Israeli native, said he plans to open another new restaurant in that area, one with a “Mediterranean concept,” though he isn’t divulging any details other than to say it should be ready in February. “It’s not fully baked yet,” he added.

Of the three that are moving, he expects Nixta, the global Mexican restaurant that he opened in 2016, to reopen in late March or April at Maker’s Locale, 5232 Delmar. The 8,000-square-foot multi-use space, which will boast a shared patio, game area and beer garden, will also be home to Alpha Brewing Company, and second locations for Steve’s Hot Dogs and The Fountain on Locust (aptly renamed The Fountain Off Locust) as well as an event space run by Third Degree Glass Factory. Poremba didn’t give a tentative date for

Elaia and Olio’s re-openings, which last year celebrated 10 years at its current location, other than to say it would likely be summer 2024.

Poremba posted the news of the move on social media, explaining that after unsuccessful efforts to either buy the restaurants’ current buildings or release them at a reasonable rent, he felt he had no other choice than to go in another direction.

“It’s a bittersweet deci sion,” he said Monday when we spoke, noting that he still has deep ties to the Botanical Heights neigh borhood. His Bengelina Hospitality Group owns the retail food and specialty shop AO&Co. there, and his wife is co-owner

of Honeycomb, a children’s specialty shop, also located in Botanical Heights.

“Change opens up new opportunities that may not have previously been considered,” he wrote on Facebook. “I won’t lie — the closing of this chapter in my journey is more than a little bittersweet. However, this next chapter is filling me up with the same kind of exuberance and outburst of creativity that I felt 12 years ago. I am thrilled to announce that the Delmar Maker’s District will become a new home for us where we will once again get the opportunity to help shape and transform the community around us.”

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

Yelena Gass-Bronstein is hoping to find a kidney donor.

Restaurauteur Ben Poremba. PHOTO FROM FACEBOOK

Jewish Federation lay leader on why giving to Annual Campaign is crucial for a thriving Jewish community

BY ELLEN FUTTERMAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Toby Warticovschi (pronounced war-teekov-ski) is the vice chair of development for Jewish Federation of St. Louis and is working closely with Joe Pereles, who is Federations chair of the 2023 campaign. Warticovschi, a 53-year-old married father of four daughters, is a partner at a private equity firm (Millstone Capital Advisors) and attends Congregation B’nai Amoona. The Jewish Light recently caught up with him to ask about the campaign, its importance and why he got involved.

Why is it important for St. Louis Jewish community members to support Federation’s 2023 annual campaign?

As Jews, it is essential for us to take care of our own community. No one else is going to take care of our needs if we don’t. By supporting the Federation, we work to ensure that no member of our community is left struggling or falling behind and that we stand united in helping one another.

The impact of the Federation’s work is directly tied to the financial resources we raise. By contributing to the annual campaign, we empower Federation to respond effectively to the growing needs of our community.

Together, we can make a significant and positive impact on the lives of our community members, fulfilling the fundamental principle of taking care of our own.

What kind of outreach are you doing in terms of attracting new donors and younger donors?

We are growing our team and looking for new ways to specifically focus on younger donors and how to reach them. We want to understand the philanthropic interest of our donors and work to

identify the best opportunities for them, whether that be through giving their time, knowledge or other resources.

Federation is constantly developing new programs and events to connect with our community and create opportunities for engagement. Whether it is a YPD (Young Professionals Division) Happy Hour or a Jewish History Community Bike Ride, we want to make it easy to get involved. We are also making giving to Federation as easy as possible through a new online giving platform.

With the current political unrest in Israel, are you noticing any backlash in terms of local community members not wanting to support Federation because it supports so many agen cies and organizations in the Jewish state?

Israel is the one and only place on earth that is the Jewish home today and we need to do every thing in our power to make sure that endures for generations to come. It is our mission, our duty and our obligation to protect this treasure.

We don’t support the Israeli government direct ly; this is a common misconception. We support specific organizations, whose missions and out comes are aligned with Federation’s mission of enhancing Jewish life in Israel.

We also prioritize local needs to ensure we fill as many of the community needs as possible first before supporting the needs of organizations/ programs abroad. This is a Jewish value that comes from the Torah.

What impact has COVID had on giving? Are large donors still giving as much as before the pandemic?

We have generous major donors and beyond who have continued to give through COVID. And, when a crisis like COVID happens or the war in Ukraine, we have special campaigns where we

raise funds quickly to make an immediate impact.

Overall giving has been flat, which is a decrease because of inflation. This is a reality that has been the case for the last five years. Where we have seen an increase is in legacy giving and maybe COVID made more people think about their legacy and ways to honor their tradition, which is another important Jewish value.

When and why did you first get involved in the St. Louis Jewish community and what made you want to spearhead the annual campaign?

Toby Warticovschi

Jewish Mindfulness Center of St. Louis offers Mind, Body and Spirit Series for Elul

Heading into the High Holidays, the Jewish Mindfulness Center of St. Louis will hold a three-part Mind, Body and Spirit Series for Elul. Sessions are at 7 p.m., held at the Jewish Mindfulness Center, located at Congregation Shaare Emeth, 11645 Ladue Road. The series includes:

• Tuesday, Aug. 22: Tending to Our Minds – The Real Meaning of Teshuva with Rabbi Andrea Goldstein. Using Danya Ruttenberg’s “On Repentance and Repair,” participants will study “what it means to make amends with others, with ourselves and with our world.”

• Monday, Aug. 28: Tending to Our Bodies – Mindful Movement with Dani Glassman. Experience the spiritual themes of the High Holy Days in the body (compassion, hope, renewal and more) in this gentle movement class open to all.

• Tuesday, Sept. 5: Tending to Our Spirits

– Soul Reflections with Rabbi Andrea Goldstein, Scott Berzon and Lucy Greenbaum. Cheshbon hanefesh, reflecting on one’s soul, is a spiritual practice connected to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This workshop will incorporate reflective writing, music, and prayer to help soften our hearts before the High Holy Days.

To register, contact Stacy Jespersen at 314-569-0010 or sjespersen@sestl.org.

Volunteers sought to make emergency contraceptive kits at Temple Israel event

Congregation Temple Israel is seeking volunteers to help make emergency contraception and safe sex supply kits available for the Missouri Family Health Council, which offers the kits — for free — through mail order or local pick up (visit www.MFHC.org/EC for more information on the kits). The volunteer event takes place from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24 at Temple Israel, #1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive.

This event is in partnership with Temple Israel, the National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis and the Missouri Family Health Council.

Registration is required. Visit https:// www.ti-stl.org/event/FreeECKits.

U.City High Class of 1953 members sought

Organizers are looking for members of the University City High School Class of 1953 in advance of a 70th reunion in the first week of October 2023. An email announcement has been sent to more than 30 classmates, but additional class members are sought. Contact Gerry Mandel at 503spidermandel@gmail.com.

St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum offers ticketed Impact Lab sessions

In August, the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is offering weekly public sessions in the Impact Lab, the Museum’s newest interactive, educational space.

The Impact Lab seeks to empower visitors to explore moments, both from the past and in the present, when they may be confronted with hateful rhetoric and encourages them to act as Active Allies to stand up and speak out against injustice. The Museum defines an Active Ally as a person who takes action in instances of injustice, discrimination, and hate.

Ticketed public sessions will take place every Wednesday and Saturday at 2 p.m., beginning Aug. 9. During these sessions, a trained facilitator will guide participants through the Impact Lab’s three key experiences. These experiences cover topics like genocides and hate crimes, the spiral of hate and becoming an active ally – all through the lens of the lessons of the Holocaust.

“At the museum, we believe that educating visitors about the history and lessons of the Holocaust is a powerful tool in

combating hate and prejudice,” said Helen Turner, director of education. “Our new weekly public sessions in the Impact Lab will provide participants with a unique opportunity to delve into the complexities of genocide, hate crimes, prejudice, and more. By learning from history, we can equip ourselves to be active allies, working together to promote a more toler-

This month, the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is offering weekly public sessions in the Impact Lab, the Museum’s newest interactive, educational space.

ant and compassionate world.”

Tickets can be purchased on the Museum’s website. Tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for young adults, students, and members. Admission is free for Guardians of Remembrance members. Group Impact Lab experiences are available upon request. More information at STLHolocaustMuseum.org/Impact-Lab.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS IS GRATEFUL TO THE DONORS OF OUR COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS.

We are pleased to have awarded scholarships totaling $145,000 TO 21 STUDENTS for the 2023-24 academic year. Individual scholarships range from $1,000-$10,000.

THE

RUTH GREENBERG

MEMORIAL FUND FOR RABBINICAL TRAINING

Established by the late Ruth Greenberg

Provides $2,500 scholarships for rabbinical training for St. Louis residents demonstrating financial need and intent to pursue a career in the rabbinate.

THE SAM A. KESSLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Established by friends of the late Sam A. Kessler

Provides a $1,000 scholarship for a local law school student demonstrating financial need and a willingness to contribute their time and talent to the Jewish community. Applicants must have resided in the St. Louis metropolitan area for at least 10 years.

THE LENTIN SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Established by Scott Lentin

Provides scholarships of up to $10,000 to high school seniors demonstrating financial need who have completed secondary school and are enrolling in full-time undergraduate degree programs or vocational programs at accredited nonprofit colleges or universities.

THE LOEB FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Made possible through the Louise & Benjamin, Marjorie & Harry Loeb Endowment

Provides grants or scholarships for as much as $5,000 annually for study at an accredited nonprofit institution, either a vocational, community, or four-year college. Awards are made to applicants from the local Jewish community, based on the potential to significantly improve an applicant’s long-term prospects and financial need, with preference given to first-generation students.

THE RICHARD L. LEVIS, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Established in memory of Richard L. Levis, Jr. by his widow, Barbara Rosen

Provides up to $1,000 in scholarship money to Missouri college or university students demonstrating scholastic achievement and financial need.

THE BLANCHE AND IRVING MILLER SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Established through a bequest from the estate of Blanche and Irving Miller

Provides $1,000 scholarships to deserving and qualified students enrolled in accredited colleges or universities who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in professional fields.

THE BENJAMIN D. AND MIRIAM PESSIN EDUCATION ASSISTANCE FUND

Established in memory of Benjamin D. Pessin and Miriam Pessin by members of their immediate family

Provides $2,500 scholarships to two qualified Jewish students demonstrating scholastic achievement and financial need pursuing a business degree.

THE CYNTHIA AND GARRY SELTZER COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP

Established by Cynthia and Garry Seltzer

Provides a renewable scholarship for $10,000 to a student who has demonstrated academic achievement, leadership skills and financial need.

Please direct questions regarding any of Federation’s scholarships to Karen Sher at 314-442-3824 or KSher@JFedSTL.org.

Clockwise from top left: Rabbi Andrea Goldstein, Scott Berzon, Lucy Greenbaum and Dani Glassman (not pictured) will lead sessions of a new Jewish Mindfulness Center series.

Mikvah at mid-Missouri Chabad turns tragedy into hope and a lasting legacy

BY MEGAN RUBENSTEIN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

COLUMBIA, MO. — A mikvah is a holy bath resembling a small swimming pool used to fulfill the Jewish law and mitzvah of family purity. However, the construction of the first mikvah in mid-Missouri is about more than just Jewish law. It represents hope, community and the lasting memory of Rabbi Avraham Lapine’s late mother.

Lapine and his wife, Channy, lead the Chabad Jewish Center of MU and MidMissouri, located here by the University of Missouri campus. On Sunday, July 30, ground was broken for what will be the only mikvah within 100 miles.

“We knew that Columbia needed a mikvah,” Rabbi Lapine said. “The closest mikvah is two hours away in St. Louis or Kansas City, and it is a bit of a journey for a woman who wants to fulfill this great mitzvah. For someone who has never done it before, it makes it even more challenging.”

Lapine said that about 200 Jewish families live in the Columbia/Jefferson City area and that about 750 Jewish students attend Mizzou. While those numbers are not large, several of those in attendance Sunday said this small but mighty community continues to grow and is backed by the support of MU Chabad.

The idea to build a mikvah in Columbia came from a discussion between Lapine and his three siblings a couple of years ago on their mother’s yahrtzeit, the anniversary of her passing.

“Every year, we reflect on her life and her commitment to Judaism,” Lapine said. “A couple of years ago, we were talking

and my brother said, ‘I think you should build a mikvah in memory of our mother,’ and I said, ‘OK, let’s do it.’ ”

For the Lapine family, remembering

their mother comes with painful memories. In 1992, when Avraham was only 5 years old, his mother, Pesya Leah Lapine, was brutally stabbed to death in their Crown Heights, N.Y. home. She was bringing home groceries. In seconds, their lives changed forever.

The Crown Heights community rallied around the family after this unthinkable and senseless tragedy (an unemployed handyman was convicted of the murder). The community and people far beyond rallied around them once again in 2022 on her 30th yahrtzeit, when Lapine launched a campaign to raise money for the mikvah in her honor. The campaign has raised more than $400,000.

“This project came about with the help of so many people,” Channy Lapine said. “Over 2,000 donors made this happen. Our family, friends and so many people were behind this project worldwide. I want to emphasize how humbled we are and how thankful we are to everyone who participated.”

The journey of bringing this mikvah to life has also helped Rabbi Lapine feel more connected to his mother. Many people reached out with stories about her loving, caring personality and were happy to

donate to this project in her honor.

“It’s very humbling, you know, it’s a very personal private story,” he said. “But in the end, this is something I am very happy that I did, due to the result and also the outpouring of love and support. A lot of people sent me stories I had never heard before, and it made me feel connected in ways I never knew. It gave me more insight into her personality and her life.”

At the groundbreaking, it was said multiple times that Pesya Leah “gave her life to Judaism.” She and her husband, Chaim Dovid Lapine, moved to Crown Heights from Texas to build their Jewish home and life together in an observant, religious community. Her passion for Judaism, Torah and mitzvos are why her children decided that a mikvah would be the best way to honor her memory.

“We have a synagogue, we have a Torah, once in a while some Kosher food, but until you have a mikvah, it’s not a complete Jewish community,” Lapine said. “It’s a potential Jewish community, it’s an exciting community that has Jewish activity, but a mikvah really makes it complete.”

Members of the Jewish community of Columbia, Mo. join the family of Channy and Rabbi Avraham Lapine, the directors of the Chabad Jewish Center of MU Mid-Missouri, to ‘break ground’ on the future mikvah site. Pictured are (back row, from left) Rebecca Smith, Jesse Japko, Ben Schacter, Rabbi Avraham Lapine, Channy Lapine, Jenifer Perkins and Mike Perkins; (front row) Mussia Lapine, Yisroel Simmonds, Levi Lapine and Moshe Lapine. PHOTOS: NATE BRENNER

A sign at the groundbreaking ceremony shows an artist’s rendering of the new Chabad House and mikvah to be built in Columbia, Mo.

Joshua David Robinson & Firdous Bamji, The Lehman Trilogy The Huntington 2023 Photo Credit: T Charles Erickson Photo

At right, Rebecca Smith,

Columbia Jewish

Jewish life in the area. ‘Where the need is, things grow. Our community has grown; look at us! This was never here before. I’m so proud of the Lapines for accomplishing this, it’s wonderful.’

PHOTOS:

The mikvah will be added as an expansion to the front of the current Chabad house west of the Mizzou campus in Columbia. It will have a separate entrance and include an entry room, bathroom, prep room and the natural mikvah room. Women will make an appointment with Channy Lapine to enter the space.

Building a mikvah is a massive undertaking, and it took a while to get started. It was difficult to find an architect in mid-Missouri willing to take on the unfamiliar process.

“I would call them, and we would meet, and I’d tell them about the project, and they’d never get back to me,” Lapine said. “After calling about five, I found one architect who called me back and said he wanted to take on the project.”

Construction is expected to begin in the next two weeks with the hope that by late

spring women will be able to utilize Columbia’s first mikvah

Rabbi Hershey and Chana Novack of Chabad at Washington University were some of the first supporters of the project. The same day his family came up with the idea, Lapine drove to pray in the closest minyan, two hours away at the WU Chabad house.

When Lapine told the Novacks about the idea, they wrote a check and said, “We want to be the first contributors to your mikvah.” Their support has not wavered.

“Rabbi Lapine, with strength and resilience, has helped build a community built on the foundation of Torah and mitzvos and building the bonds of Yiddishkeit,” Rabbi Novack said at the groundbreaking ceremony. “Having the Lapine family here is a blessing.”

Baila Sitrin grew up in Columbia and

recently moved back. She spoke at the groundbreaking about how the mikvah will serve women like herself, present and future.

“This is a huge milestone for the growing Jewish community here,” Sitrin said. “Ever since I got married, mikvah has been my favorite mitzvah. When my husband and I first got married, we lived in Brooklyn (N.Y.), and the closest mikvah was five blocks away. Now, it is a two-hour drive, whether it is in rain, shine or a snowstorm, so I am so excited to finally have a mikvah here.”

Sitrin is one of few women in Columbia who would utilize the mikvah. However, Lapine envisions it also serving the Jewish community in greater ways, including as a learning opportunity for Mizzou students.

“It’s going to bring awareness of this mitzvah to the hundreds of Jewish college

students that will come through our doors,” he said.

While the mikvah is meant to complete the Columbia Jewish community, it will also serve an unexpected group: travelers. Those in town for work or on a cross-country road trip can utilize the mikvah while passing through.

“A few times a year, people are actually driving across I-70 and call to ask if we have mikvah, so it can also be for travelers, which is something I never originally envisioned,” Lapine said. “Just last week someone called to ask, and I said, ‘No, but we’re building one right now!’ ”

If you would like to contribute to this project, information can be found at jewishtigers.com/CoMoMikvah

Above, Rabbi Lapine’s paternal grandmother Janice Lapine traveled in from Overland Park, Kan., to attend the groundbreaking. She is pictured laughing with her granddaughter Leah and daughter-in-law, Channy.

a longtime member of the

community, speaks passionately about Chabad’s contributions to

NATE BRENNER

Above, Rabbi Lapine and his father, Chaim Dovid Lapine, who traveled from Crown Heights, N.Y., for the groundbreaking. “Mikvah comes from the same root as tikvah, and tikvah means hope,” Chaim Dovid said. “By having a mikvah, you’re able to have hope for the survival of a Jewish community.”

Rabbi Abraham Magence (seated at center) leads a ‘Soviet Seder’ for new Americans at Bais Abraham in April 1975 in this Jewish Light file photo.

Jewish Federation seeks applications for professional development scholarships

Bais Abraham plans learning initiative in honor of congregation’s longtime rabbi

The Rabbi Abraham Magence (zt”l) Learning Initiative will start with a Shabbaton in August

Bais Abraham Congregation has planned the Rabbi Abraham Magence (zt”l) Learning Initiative, featuring three Shabbatons between August and February. The Shabbatot will offer educational programming and special events dedicated to the memory of the congregation’s beloved former rabbi, who served Bais Abraham from 1975 until his death in 2003.

The Initiative will make its debut with a Shabbaton featuring Rabbi Hyim Shafner on Aug. 11, which is Magence’s 20th yahrzeit. Shafner served as Bais Abraham’s rabbi from 2004 to 2017. There will be a Friday dinner at which Shafner will speak; he will also lead a lunch and learn follow-

ing morning services on Saturday, Aug. 12, and conduct an informal study session for seudah shlishit

A second Shabbaton, led by Eva and Rabbi Joe Ozarowski, is scheduled for Nov. 10 and 11; the third and final Shabbaton will be led by Rabbi Hody Nemes the weekend of Feb. 16 and 17, 2024. All Shabbatot will be weekends of learning and conversation.

Bais Abraham notes several ways the community can honor Rabbi Magence’s memory and support the learning initiative:

• Become a named sponsor for one or more of the Shabbaton events

• Register to attend the events

• Submit an advertisement, photograph, memory, message or have one’s name listed in the tribute journal honoring Rabbi Magence’s accomplishments and contributions to the shul and the St. Louis Jewish community. The book will be distributed at the February 2024 Shabbaton and will be available digitally. Register or donate online www.baisabe.com/magencelearn

In honor of the 40th work anniversary of Marci Mayer Eisen in 2021 and her career-long passion for professional development and training, the Jewish Federation of St. Louis established an endowment fund for professional development scholarships. Staff who currently work for a Jewish organization in St. Louis can apply for a scholarship to attend a conference, seminar, leadership program or university class.

Apply by Aug. 21 for scholarships to be used in 2023.

Apply by Nov. 15 for scholarships to be used in 2024.

A maximum of $1,500 will be awarded each year. Applications will be reviewed by a committee. For more information, call 314442-3810 or email MEisen@ JFedStL.org. Learn about Mayer Eisen and the establishment of the Fund for Professional Development

Marci Mayer Eisen

Rabbi Hyim Shafner Served Bais Abraham from 2004 to 2017 and will lead a Shabbaton in August

PHOTO: DAVID HENSCHEL

Team STL returns from Maccabi Games in Israel

BY JORDAN PALMER CHIEF DIGITAL CONTENT OFFICER

The seven St. Louis Jewish teen athletes who traveled to Israel last month for the JCC Maccabi Games are back home after a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The athletes, Nathan Arst (baseball), Annabel Brockman (tennis), Morgan Cohen (tennis), Noah Kravetz (baseball), Dylan Johns (tennis), Grant Rauner (Star Reporter journalism program) and Alyssa Weisenberg (swimming), were among more than 1,000 Jewish teens from 10 countries competing in the Olympic-style sports event.

The teen athletes arrived in Israel on July 6, for the grand opening ceremonies and to prepare for the competition beginning on July 9. The games lasted one week and then the athletes spent two weeks travelling and learning all around Israel.

"Maccabi is so much more than a competition. Our delegation met other Jewish teens from across the world and they all experienced Israel together, an experience of a lifetime," said Emilie Brockman, the Maccabi delegation head. "They competed and no one complained when they didn’t win a game or a match because they had so much fun just being there. From opening ceremony to the closing party, it was an unforgettable Maccabi experience."

"I had an amazing experience at Maccabi in Israel," said Arst, a member of Temple Israel and an incoming senior at Parkway Central High School. "Not only did I get to play my favorite sport, baseball, but I was able to tour an incredible country. I had a meaningful visit to the Western Wall, saw a beautiful view atop Masada and most of all made tons of friends."

And that is really the point of the games. Also known as the “Jewish Olympics,” its main goals are to bring young Jewish athletes together and strengthen the connection of the participants to the state of Israel and the Jewish people.

"The experience following the competition was super fun. We went to three or four main attractions a day just taking in everything that we could," said swimmer Weisenberg. "It showed me that Israel was so many different things, and it had a wide range of meanings to different people."

What the athletes experience during the two weeks can have a powerful and meaningful influence on them.

"I definitely feel different than before. I have a closer connection with Judaism after my time in Israel," said Arst.

Weisenberg brings home 10 medals

When Weisenberg's fingertips first hit the pool water inside Afek Sports Center in Hadera, Israel, she knew she was in the right place. Her first event in the 2023 Maccabi Games was the 100-meter butterfly, one of her strongest events.

"I was really excited and ready to start swimming. I was also nervous though because there were no printed-out heat sheets, and no one knew what lane or what heat we were in. It was quite a chaotic first day," said Weisenberg.

Chaotic, until that first stroke. And then she was literally in her lane.

"The experience in the pool reminded me a lot of why I love swimming so much," said Weisenberg. “Making new friends with the same ambitions as you and getting to cheer them on and having someone to cheer you on was really a great experience. Knowing that all these people were also Jewish added an extra layer to the experience."

When the competition ended, Weisenberg, a member of Congregation B'nai Amoona and an incoming senior at Parkway Central, successfully showcased her incredible determination by winning

an impressive 10 medals; three gold, four silver and three bronze. For this young athlete, the medals are wonderful, but the once-in-a-lifetime experience will affect her for the rest of her life.

"I was inspired to look beyond what I think I know about any person,” said Weisenberg. “Being able to put all the things that worry me behind and just enjoying the things around me is easy to do in Israel but it made me a better person to be able to just stop and admire the things around me."

ABOVE: Team STL included Grant Rauner, Nathan Arst, Alyssa Weisenberg, Morgan Cohen, Annabel Brockman, Dylan Johns and Noah Kravetz. The teens took part in the 2023 JCC Maccabi Games in Israel last month.

LEFT: Alyssa Weisenberg with one of the 10 medals she earned at the Maccabi Games in Israel.

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.

Brett Rich and William Green have joined the St. Louis prosecutor’s office as assistant circuit attorneys. Rich previously worked as a municipal prosecutor for St. Louis County and the St. Louis County assistant prosecuting attorney. Green worked as an assistant prosecuting attorney in St. Louis County before being recruited by a law firm to head their criminal defense department. Allison Schreiber Lee will be a special assistant circuit attorney, as she will maintain her full-time role at Sandberg Phoenix as a shareholder in the firm’s family law department and help the circuit attorney’s office pro bono. She is a member of United Hebrew Congregation.

The United Hebrew Congregation Book Club has changed its name to honor its founder and biggest enthusiast, the late Susan Kaplansky. The club was created in 2015 with the intention to inform, gather and discuss a variety of interesting books. All members of the community are invited to attend.

mindyKNOWS has expanded to Northwestern University, University of Hartford and Skidmore College for the 2023-24 school year. Mindy Horwitz started the concierge service to offer college parents of students attending St. Louis area universities access to local resources, including doctors, celebrations and event planning, hotels and local attractions and recommendations for student needs such as moving services, food and pharmacy delivery and tutors. Horwitz is a member of Kol Rinah.

Molly Ruder is the new communication manager at United Hebrew. She oversees all communications, develops and implements communication strategies and directs and manages all digital, print, and internal and external communications. Ruder is a member of United Hebrew.

Renewal by Anderson in Earth City welcomed Erica Brasken as its new community engagement manager. She works in partnership with the leadership team to manage the execution of Renewal by Andersen/the Birner Group financial giving programs and leads the employee engagement activities. Brasken also facilitates community volunteers. A member of Congregation Temple Israel, she is a former director of the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry

Maxine Clark, Bruce Rubin and Carol Weisman are among the 12 who will be honored at the 19 th Annual Ageless Remarkable St. Louisans Gala. St.

Andrew’s Resources Charitable

Foundation hosts the gala, which is celebrating the outstanding achievements of inspirational and dynamic adults ages 70 and better. The gala takes place Saturday, Sept. 30, at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac.

Clark, 74, is the founder of Build a Bear. She provides philanthropic support through the Clark-Fox Foundation and her latest venture is Delmar DivINe. Clark is dedicated to helping unleash the potential of women and minority entrepreneurs and to use her entrepreneurial skills to create platforms and places that give access to more St. Louis families.

Rubin, 76, is a contributor to the Blues for Kids Charity, which has provided unwavering support for St. Louis Children Hospital. He also supports Barnes Federation and the Kaplan Feldman St. Louis Holocaust Museum and currently serves as board president for Produce Row. Through his business, United Produce, he has donated to various food banks and organizations including the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry.

BROUGHT TO YOU THIS

MONTH BY:

Weisman, 74, has served on 42 boards, of which she was president of nine. As founder and president of Board Builders, Inc. she is the author of 11 books on fundraising and philanthropy, such as “Raising Charitable Children.” Her last book was written for philanthropists, “Becoming One of the Grateful Dead: Where There’s a Will There’s a Way.” Weisman is beginning pro bono work on a strategic plan for St. Louis-based Micro-financing Partners in Africa. She currently serves on the board of the Ladue Education Foundation and is president of the board of St. Louis Non-profit News.

Claire Deane has joined Lift for Life Academy as its new marketing and volunteer manager. She creates and manages content for social media, print content, and special marketing materials as well as the school website. Deane also manages the volunteer program.

The 2023 A-List winners announced

were announced by St. Louis Magazine Terror Tacos, located on S. Grand Blvd., was voted the winner of Best Vegetarian/ Vegan Restaurant. Brothers Bradley Roach and Brian Roash combiwned some of their favorite things—tacos, vegan food, horror movies and heavy metal to create one of the most memorable restaurant concepts around. They belong to Congregation B’nai Amoona. MetroVet was voted Best Animal Hospital. The owner, Dr. Seth Williams, takes a modern approach to the practice which is located in Clayton. He and his family attend Temple Israel.

Maharat Rori Picker Neiss has joined the board of HIAS, the international Jewish humanitarian organization that provides critical support to refugees, asylum seekers and other forcibly displaced people around the world. Picker Neiss the executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis and one of the first women ordained as Orthodox clergy in the United States.

TOP ROW, FROM LEFT: Brett Rich, William Green, Allison Schreiber, Mindy Horwitz and Molly Ruder. SECOND ROW: Erica Brasken, Maxine Clark, Bruce Rubin, Carol Weisman and Claire Deane. THIRD ROW: Dr. Seth Williams, Maharat Rori Picker Neiss and Susan Kaplansky. AT RIGHT: Bradley Roach and Brian Roash.

PHOTO: NESHAMA ROASH

Chabad of Chesterfield offers a bat mitzvah course for adults

NCJWSTL partners with Royal Banks of Missouri on Family Resource Guide

National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis has partnered with Royal Banks of Missouri to publish a Family Resource Guide filled with information that provides people with available services in our community. An outgrowth of the Family Resource Room at the NCJWSTL Back to School! Store event, this guide replaced the in-person opportunity during the pandemic and proved to be an incredible resource which we continue to publish annually.

According to Ellen Alper, CEO of NCJWSTL: “We’ve now got an opportunity to reach 5,000 families with a booklet filled with resources to help them move forward in our region. This new partnership includes putting the guides into the Royal Banks of Missouri branch offices and allowing us to print more of the hard copy version to distribute to our agency partners.”

A PDF version is available online at https://bit.ly/NCJWSTL-guide.

Plans next year include doubling the distribution and making the Family Resource Guide available to teachers, social workers and others who interact directly with children and families in our community. Royal Banks of Missouri has already committed to help us do that and we can’t thank them enough for their partnership.”

Mitchell P. Baden, President & Chief Executive Officer, Royal Banks of Missouri, shared their philosophy on partnering in the community:

“Community is at the center of our mission at Royal Banks of Missouri, and we are proud to show our support for NCJWSTL by sponsoring an essential asset like this year’s Family Resource Guide.”

Starting in September, as part of the Jewish Women’s Circle, Chabad of Chesterfield will offer a bat mitzvah milestone course for adults. Classes will be held on Wednesday evenings, meeting monthly, through May. The course will culminate with a special ceremony to celebrate this milestone and accomplishment together with family and friends.

Throughout the yearlong course, topics and discussions will cover the basic tenets of Judaism and the special role that Jewish women play throughout history as well as today.

Participants will have the opportunity to uncover the essential change that occurs on the day they become a bat mitzvah and understand how it impacts them every day of their lives, going forward.

The course will be led and instructed

by Chanala Rubenfeld, co-director of Chabad of Chesterfield.

“So many women I’ve met in our community feel their Jewishness isn’t complete because they feel that they never had an adequate bat mitzvah experience. Many have expressed that they are looking to upgrade their ‘Hebrew school level Judaism’ to an adult Judaism that they can connect to, today,” said Rubenfeld.

This sparked the idea to create an adult level program that would allow women to have the comprehensive Jewish knowledge they yearn for, in a meaningful and joyful manner. The cost for the yearly course is $360. Spaces will be limited, on a first come, first served basis. For more information and to register, visit: bit.ly/batmitzvahmilestone. Applications are currently being accepted.

TI will host Intro to Judaism course

From 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays, Aug. 22 through Dec. 19, join St. Louis-area Reform rabbis at Congregation Temple Israel in Creve Coeur, for Intro to Judaism, an engaging deep dive into Jewish faith, culture and community. Designed for beginners from any religious background, this program is perfect for interfaith couples, in-laws of

Jews, unaffiliated Jews, individuals exploring conversion and anyone seeking more knowledge about Judaism.

The cost is $72 per household. Registration is required to join the course. Tuition includes the cost of materials and students will receive a copy of the course book at the opening session. RSVP at www.ti-stl.org/Intro.

BY: DR BETH TEMPLIN PT DPT GCS GERIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPIST

ercise have been people living with se (PD) What's not all exercises are created equal

People with Parkinson's have symptoms that affect movement One of the most common is rigidity When someone has rigidity they will have extreme stiffness in one or more areas of their body This makes it difficult for them to achieve fluid, natural looking movements

Another symptom affecting people with Parkinson's is bradykinesia, or slowness of movement This can impact trying to start a motion as well as carry out a movement

People with Parkinson's often experience lack of coordination with their movements This can result in poor balance, falls and difficulty carrying out daily tasks

Another area that suffers with Parkinson's disease is the automaticity of certain tasks This means it takes someone with Parkinson s more concentration to perform simple tasks that the rest of us do on autopilot Exercises specifically designed to target these problem areas have been very successful in improving PD symptoms This makes it crucial to find someone who is trained in Parkinson's specific exercises It's common that people have symptoms for several years before getting an actual diagnosis So even

If you are newly diagnosed, you've probably been experiencing some of these symptoms for several months to years That's why it's never too early or too late to start exercising

Want to learn more about the best exercise options for people living with PD? Then register to attend our “Parkinson's and Exercise” Talk at HouseFit During this FREE Community Ta lk we will cover:

Why you shouldn t accept losing your independence with PD

How intense exercise helps you slow the progression

How exercise can improve your balance and even prevent falls

Why everyone with PD needs to be seen by a Physical

Therapist

Why PWR!Moves are a great option for anyone with PD

When: Fri, August 11th at 2:30 pm

Where: 3809 Lemay Ferry Rd, 63125

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

NCJWSTL CEO Ellen Alper (left) and Board President Nancy Litz flank Royal Banks of Missouri President and CEO Mitchell P. Baden. NCJWSTL and Royal Banks of Missouri partnered on the publication of a Family Resource Guide.

Chanala Rubenfeld is co-director of Chabad of Chesterfield.

100 and counting: Gloria Gordon just turned 100 — but she had much more important things on her mind than her birthday

“She and I were buddies,” Gordon says. “Sometimes we even had a little pact to get around my mom. She was trying to raise her children in the right way, but she didn’t have the unconditional love that you can get from a grandmother.”

Warmed by reassurance, schooled in the arts and wholly in love with the natural world, Gordon headed off to Oberlin College. On its faculty were professors who had fled antisemitism in Europe. “The underground movement in Europe during the war became my standard of what people have to do to fight bad government,” she would say later.

Being Jewish made you an outsider, and that feeling, uncomfortable as it was, made it easier to think independently. Being Jewish also made you vulnerable to irrational hatred. How could you succeed strictly on your own merits when colleges still had quotas for Jewish students? To survive, you needed the help of others.

This realization dovetailed with the enthusiastic activism of her college roommate, Susan Knopf. “If something is going wrong, we get together with other people and organize a meeting” — that was Knopf’s approach. Gordon had learned that she could face the world on her own, but now she was beginning to see what people could do together. Knopf had handed Gordon her life’s M.O.

Also, her future husband.

Knopf had an old friend, Barry Commoner, whose roommate at Harvard took her fancy. Knopf eventually married that roommate, and in perfect symmetry, Gordon married Commoner. Was it love at first sight? “No. He pursued me,” she says. At first, she stalled: She wanted a career.

After graduation, she landed her first

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job: organizing a youth rally at Carnegie Hall in 1944 to help re-elect FDR. She packed the place. She was so stunned, she forgot to feel proud.

That job led to one as executive secretary for the U.S. Student Assembly, an organization that greatly interested Eleanor Roosevelt. She invited its members to meet at the Roosevelts’ New York brownstone, and Gordon found the First Lady “informal, relaxed, very accessible.” Both women were interested in journalism (Gordon had been the news editor for her high school paper) and in social reform. And both would help their husbands far more than the world would acknowledge.

Barry Commoner rose fast. He became a professor of plant physiology at Washington University in 1947, and his writing introduced the concept of sustainability long before climate change became an emergency. Together, he and Gordon

Continued on opposite page

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At right, Gloria Gordon, shown at her cabin near Potosi (above) in an undated photo, is happiest around nature. Below, Gordon in a recent photo with granddaughter Olivia (left) and daughter Lucy (right).

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLORIA GORDON

led a nuclear information movement, asking scientists to explain to the public what a nuclear bomb was and what an explosion could do.

Gordon, a peace activist, also worked with the nuclear freeze movement. And she made sure enough of the nation’s baby teeth eluded the Tooth Fairy that scientists could test for Strontium-90, introduced into children’s mouths by nuclear tests. It led to a major nuclear test ban by President John F. Kennedy.

The couple managed to relax a bit every summer, splashing around with their son and daughter on an island near the Canadian border. The kids learned to love nature, as Gordon’s granddaughter, Olivia, someday would too, working at the zoo, riding horseback whenever possible, rescuing dogs. On a trip to Costa Rica, Olivia found a stray dog in such bad shape (he probably found her), she made a frantic phone call to her mother, who figured out how she could bring the dog home.

In this family, if you were helping a living creature, anything was worth the trouble.

vvv

By the time Commoner made his unsuccessful but educational bid for the U.S. presidency, in 1980, he and Gordon were divorced, though still good friends. He remarried; she did not. “It’s so complicated to get married,” she remarks now. “I haven’t known anyone else I would undertake that with.”

She started a support group for divorced women because she felt they had a lot to talk about. She had her Ph.D. in psychology by then. Her master’s thesis proved that racism stops white people from learning information about people of color. Her later scholarly research showed how shift work and occupational stress can damage people’s mental health.

Gordon directed a study at Columbia University’s School of Public Health, then taught at St. Louis University. She continued to explore “how people see things, and how we have biases and points of view that keep us from seeing reality clearly,” as she summarized it in an oral history for the State Historical Society of Missouri.

Gordon and fellow activist Ben Senturia were among the organizers of a local chapter of Brit Tzedek v’Shalom, a group that hoped the United States could broker peace between Israel and Palestine. Hasn’t happened yet. But as a member of Central Reform Congregation, she started a chavurah that is still meeting weekly 34 years later.

A great many people, upon hearing that Gordon was about to mark a century on Aug. 2, wanted to celebrate. “I do not want a 100th birthday party,” she snapped. “What I want is for people to do something about climate change.” When she could not forestall the party, she suggested they use it to gather an interfaith, interracial group that could talk about the climate crisis as an ethical dilemma.

“She’s driving us crazy,” Senturia laughs. “She has this strong sense of responsibility and initiative and follow through. She pushes. But personally, I like that. I enjoy conversations with her because she’s smart as a whip, and she pushes, and I’m willing to push back.”

She is also, he adds, an extraordinary listener — “a smart listener. She gets it, and she asks good questions back. She’s with you.”

“She’s taught me not to judge,” says

Debbie Piccozzi, who came to work as a caregiver and now counts herself a friend.

“She just listens. Sometimes I think we don’t have any secrets between the two of us!”

Gordon “makes fun of herself all the time,” says her dear friend Judy Leon, “but she never has a bad word to say about anyone. I complained about someone once, and she said, ‘Everybody’s got reasons for who they are, and everybody’s doing the best they can.’”

Too much is urgent to sweat the small stuff. Even in activism, “Gloria doesn’t like to do smallscale things,” observes a WashU student, Rachel Buenger, who has been interviewing Gordon about her life. “She always wants to do something that is going to make a big splash.”

STL Village, for example. She read about a nonprofit in Boston that made it easier for people to stay in their own homes as they aged by pooling resources, offering help with rides to doctor’s offices, house repairs — all the niggling, mundane challenges that begin to loom.

Gordon lit the fire locally, and a committee excitedly drew boundaries around the Central West End. No, no, she said, erasing one of those lines to extend the boundary north of the Delmar divide. The project would be interracial, economically diverse, geographically diverse.

And so it is, 11 years later, and thriving. By helping people age well, STL Village is combatting the ageism Gordon sees as the latest civil rights struggle.

“What needs to be done is to increase the amount of organizing of older people,

so they feel empowered,” she says briskly. “And so they know it’s OK to stop someone from calling them Dear or Honey or Sweetie. I’m not Sweetie.”

Gordon had no intention of withdrawing as she aged, letting her brain get soggy, letting her body fall apart. So she stayed engaged, made new friends, walked for hours in Forest Park every day — and lived on her own until just a few years ago.

What does she not do? Veg, or obsess, or shop. She’s more interested in reading, writing, talking, galvanizing a response to climate change, relishing nature and doing all she can to protect it.

Her rabbi at CRC, Randy Fleisher, says Gordon was “quite ahead of her time, con-

stantly urging me and the synagogue to get involved in climate change activism. To be braver, to do more.” He went with her to the meetings of a student environmental group at WashU: “She was by quite a large ratio the oldest person there, but they loved her. They had an action at the Galleria, and I brought her, and we stood out on the street for six hours.”

The planet’s current predicament is testing her resiliency. Not long ago she told Leon that she had lived through a war, a depression, every major disaster, and she has never been as depressed about this country as she is now. “It’s hard to have any hope,” she admitted, “and I’ve always had hope.”

On days when the frustration takes over, Piccozzi says firmly, “Let’s go to the country.” Gordon and Commoner bought a little house near Potosi years ago, and the absence of indoor plumbing is more than countered by the chance to see even the faintest constellations.

“I love the night sky,” she says, closing her eyes to visualize them. Not because it’s calming, she adds quickly, but “because it’s amazing. You see yourself on this planet and all those other planets, and you are into this whole setup.”

On a recent weekend there, she wrote an open letter “to the children who will inherit our once-beautiful now-battered planet.” What was needed, she told them, was “an unprecedented planetary movement with all on board.”

Nature, for Gloria Gordon, is not an escape. It is the point.

For more on the River City Journalism Fund, which provided funding for this project and seeks to support local journalism in St. Louis, please see rcjf.org

The chavurah Gordon started in 1989 is still going strong today. PHOTO COURTESY OF GLORIA GORDON

Gloria Gordon is using the spotlight afforded by her centennial to bring attention to climate change. PHOTO: VIRGINIA HAROLD

OPINIONS

ABOUT THE OPINIONS SECTION

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

Creating a moral community is our choice

BY RABBI ELIZABETH HERSH

[Editor’s note: This d’var Torah was originally published in 2021.]

From “Stories for Public Speakers,” compiled and edited by Morris Mandel: “A man was marooned on an island for years. One day, he saw a ship in the distance and signaled to it. A boat was sent out to him. As the boat approached the shore of the island, a sailor threw him a pack of newspapers and called out to him, ‘Read them!’ Tomorrow I will return and see if you still want to return to civilization.’ ”

This week’s Torah portion, Re’eh, is a reminder that we can live a life of blessings or a life of curses. We can follow the correct path, or we can deviate from our responsibilities toward God, ourselves and one another. If we follow the path of mitzvot, we bring blessings to our lives and our community.

The choice is ours alone to make. Do we want to cross the Jordan, settle the land and live as a community? Or do we wish to remain alone, an island unto ourselves?

The Torah states: “You shall not act at all

as we now act here, every man as he pleases.” And: “You are children of the Eternal your God. … You are consecrated to the Eternal your God.”

We are called God’s treasured people. We are reminded to open our hands to the needy. Give readily and without regret. This is a formula for a vibrant and healthy community. It we choose.

God has given us a framework by which to live. It is based upon mitzvot. Some are between humans, others between the individual and God. The Torah portion is about setting boundaries for a community that can live and thrive. It is a choice. And a choice that we must continually make.

By being present to God’s calls, by saying heneni, we will feel the blessings and beauty of our world. When we treat each other as Divine Beings created in the Divine Image, we strengthen the bond not only between one another but with God as well. When we attend to one another, we serve God. Our entire approach to life, work and family is Divine, if we choose.

As we read this portion we recognize the directions, the roadmap, on how

Barbie Land: ‘The universe opposite of Trump World’

BY STACEY NEWMAN

Growing up, I had the requisite number of Barbie dolls. I was only 5 years old when Mattel debuted the iconic Barbie in 1959, and she was instrumental in most of my fights with my younger sister. Always in sibling competition over doll clothes, Barbie took me to exotic worlds in Life magazine and the gazillion women’s magazines that flooded my house in my childhood.

Few leaders of government were women in the early 1960s, but I innately knew that if Barbie wanted to, she could be one. With her absurd physical dimensions and a neck too tiny to properly support her head, Barbie still contained magic powers beyond my imagination.

She was a feminist before Bella Abzug taught us what the word really meant. Barbie convinced me that the world held no limitations for me even though few ceilings had been cracked and women couldn’t get a credit card or buy a house on their own.

Barbie Land was real; at least, Barbie convinced us it could be real. We knew our feet would never look like hers, but if we worked hard, we could become an airline pilot, astronaut, physicist or even a rabbi.

Still inspiring millions of kids, Barbie Land is based on ambition, determination and the belief in oneself. Barbie makes it seem so easy, happy and we can wear as much pink as we like.

Barbie refused to teach us to bald-face lie, cheat the system or ignore the law in order to win. Barbie Land is the universe opposite of Trump World.

President Barbie (all seven of them) would never stage a coup, promote storming the U.S. Capitol to stop certification of electoral votes and persuade followers to burn it all down. She would never threaten the Justice Department or rant tweet in the night about being persecuted for breaking laws.

Sure, some of us mutilated our Barbie’s hair and learned the hard way you couldn’t reattach her head, ending up with our own

Rabbi Elizabeth Hersh serves Temple Emanuel and is a member of the St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association, which coordinates the d’var Torah for the Jewish Light

to live a spiritually enriched life filled with meaning, purpose and joy. It teaches us how to belong and function as a community. It demands loyalty to one God. Moses encourages us not to settle but to strive for greatness. Reject idolatry in all forms and embrace God. Celebrate the festivals. Treat each other with dignity.

Re’eh is in the singular form, but the rest of the passage is in the plural. We learn our strength as a people, as a community, when we are unified in serving God. Another thought is that each individual has within him or her the ability to affect the world,

either for its benefit or destruction. To save one life is to save the entire world.

Orthodox Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, a former member of the British House of Lords, wrote:

“As I put it in my book ‘Morality,’ a free society is a moral achievement. The paradoxical truth is that a society is strong when it cares for the weak, rich when it cares for the poor, and invulnerable when it takes care of the vulnerable.

“I believe Moses was right when he taught us … that the great choice is between the blessing and the curse, between following the voice of God or the seductive call of instinct and desire. Freedom is sustained only when a nation becomes a moral community. And any moral community achieves a greatness far beyond its numbers, as we lift others, and they lift us.”

The month of Elul begins in a few days. This is the time to begin anew. This is the time to return to civilization. This is the opportunity to cross the Jordan and rebuild and restore your soul, your community, your faith.

It is your choice.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email news@stljewishlight.org

Stacey Newman, a former Missouri state representative, is the executive director of ProgressWomen, a statewide social justice group focused on justice and equality issues.

Weird Barbie. But not once did we covet a Dictator Barbie or even an Indictment Barbie, complete with 78 felony charges and accompanying gaggle of lawyers all named Ken.

We girls of the 1960s grew up, navigated real world patriarchy, and some of us did get elected to office. One even became vice president of the United States. It was tougher than just having perfect hair and perfect pink pantsuits. We knew that if we broke laws, we were cooked. Even those of us named Barbie didn’t get second chances, especially if we bragged about our sexual abuse grabbing or hid national classified government documents in gilded bathrooms.

Call Barbie what you want in all of her contradictions but, undeniably, she never taught her owners to lie. Or steal. Or encourage others to lie about elections. Even in Missouri.

In December 2020, 54 members of the Missouri House of Representatives, including future Speaker Rob Vescovo, signed a resolution declaring no confidence in presidential election results in the states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. They insisted that fraudulent votes there would change the outcome of the presidential election and that Missourians would be harmed. Many of those signers still serve in the Legislature, some now in the state Senate.

In addition to passing the resolution, they invited Rudy Giuliani, one of Trump’s former lawyers, to testify in a December 2020

See NEWMAN on page 22A

Including a variety of Jewish perspectives appreciated

I am writing in response to Rabbi Ze’ev Smason’s July 12 commentary (“Look to ‘eternal truths of the Torah’ for Jewish view of marriage, family”) offering an Orthodox Torah perspective on marriage and family. My intent is to strongly support the Light’s willingness to give voice to a wide diversity of opinion on topics of broad current interest.

Trying to maintain balance and diversity in reporting and publishing is difficult, especially if the views expressed are not aligned with prevailing majorities and mainstream liberal ideology. The only regular contributor to the Light with conservative views is Martin Rochester. His columns are predictably followed by letters to the editor filled with invective and criticism. What I find interesting in these responses is their failure to confront the factual issues raised by Rochester, and rather express their own opinions.

One of the enduring strengths of our country is tolerance for expressing a wide range of opinions as embedded in our Constitution — free speech. In addition, and almost as significant, is tolerance for these differing viewpoints. The Jewish Light is to be congratulated and supported for publishing articles from across the Jewish religious perspective — Orthodox, Conservative, Reform and Reconstructionist.

Stephen Bell St. Louis

Recent events in Israel and the United States confirm the truly antidemocratic nature of the left.

The left trumpets unending commitment to “democratic norms” and “democracy” until “democracy” produces an outcome they don’t like.

Israel has arguably the most robust democracy in the world, with every election being decided by one of their 15-20 political parties. Every analysis shows the Israeli public is strongly center right.

However, in recent years, the Israeli Supreme Court continues to represent a minority, leftist political viewpoint.

No court anywhere is non-political when the members of that court choose their successors, rather than being chosen by the multi-party Knesset, the only democratically elected representatives of the people.

When Israel’s democratically elected Knesset proposed to reform the leftist Supreme Court, the Israeli left took to the streets — mob rule — rather than accept the democratic results.

As proof of concept, note the similarity of the leftist-inspired violence of the United States in 2020 and Israeli mob violence in 2023.

Richard Senturia, Director Citizens for a Just and Lasting Peace in the Middle East

For some in U.S. and Israel, support for democracy seems to waver when results are unfavorable

Never forget

BY DEBBIE HIRSCHFELDER

For most of my life I have known the numbers: 6 million Jews killed; 1.5 million children killed.

For most of my life I have known the names of towns: Auschwitz, Birkinau, Łódz, Treblinka, Terezinstadt, Warsaw ghetto.

For most of my life I have known the names of the vilest men to walk this earth: Hitler, Goring, Mengele, Eichmann, Himmler.

For much of my life I have seen the pictures of emaciated bodies, cattle cars, deportation platforms, barbed wire, raw barracks with inhuman conditions.

I have also known some of the names of the heroes who fought for the right to live, who rebelled in any way they could. And the names of those who tried to enlighten the world to the horrors and methods used to perpetuate the horrors: Elie Wiesel, Hannah Senesh, the ghetto fighters, the Partisans, the Righteous Gentiles.

For much of my life I have been privileged to know some of the survivors — I listened to their stories if they wished to share, offered friendship if they didn’t.

For the past two weeks I walked in the steps of those whose very existence was questioned, whose hopes and dreams were shattered, whose talents, skills and knowledge were thrown away. I saw firsthand the unimaginable, the brutality and the remains of a people: piles of shoes, braids of human hair, clothes, pots and pans, the gas chambers, a crematorium, mass graves, unmarked graves, desecrated graves. Rail cars, deportation stations, the end of the rail lines.

I also saw evidence of that which defines civilization: art, music, poetry created by people whose world would soon be no more! In the face of the greatest evil they continued to create, to do good, to have hope! To document their history so that hopefully the world would know.

Elie Wiesel exhorted us to bear witness, to

Clockwise from above: A baby’s jacket and shoe from Auschwitz; a view of the cemetery at Łódź; prostheses taken from victims at Auschwitz before their murders.

uncomfortable, sick to my stomach, enraged. Yes, I cried. And I continue to cry.

But I won’t go “softly and safely!”

I will speak out when I see, hear, know of other evil men focused on human rights violations and genocides: Pol Pot (Cambodia), Darfur, Myanmar, Pinochet (Chile). The atrocities in these places must also not be forgotten.

I will not go softly....I will not stay safely in my own world. I will continue to say Kaddish in memory and in honor of those who left no descendants. I will yell, I will fight and I will ensure that my vote counts.

shout out to the world what happened and how! To share the horrors. To never forget!

Yes, I took pictures, and I will share my pictures, my memories, my impressions. Yes, I was

As Jews we must be the vanguard of hope, of decency and morality. If we don’t fulfill these roles, who will? So my friends, my fellow travelers who shared this journey, bear witness to what you saw. Relate the horrors, make people uncomfortable so that they too may be enraged and willing to fight for mankind!

It is our responsibility. Only then will we all be safe.

Debbie Hirschfelder was Co-Chair, with her husband Kent, of the recent Jewish Federation trip to Central Europe. They are residents of Creve Coeur and are members of Congregation Shaare Emeth.

St. Louisan writes of division, disappointment at ‘Extraordinary’ World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem

BY MARC JACOB

In October 2020, I wrote about my experience as a delegate to the COVID-friendly “virtual” World Zionist Congress. Two and a half years later, we received word in December that this April there would finally be an in-person “Extraordinary” Congress, held in Jerusalem. I was blessed to be able to take my 14-year-old son Noah with me on his first visit to Israel.

Initially, this gathering of more than 500 elected delegates from around the world, and another 100-plus from international organizations, was supposed to be without partisan resolutions and instead be a unifying event around Israel’s 75th anniversary. To bolster that position, in mid-January the American Zionist Movement (AZM) the American wing of the World Zionist Organization (WZO), which represents onethird of the elected delegates, sent a letter to the WZO encouraging a program “structured around panels and interactions that allow ample time for conversation and exchanges…”

Shortly thereafter, the WZO announced that each organization (or group of organizations) would be permitted to submit one proposed resolution on the subject of “75 Years for the State of Israel” and that there would be sessions and discussions around Israel’s Declaration of Independence. So, although there would be resolutions, it all still seemed pretty benign and limited in scope. Until it wasn’t.

On April 2, just a few days before Passover, the proposed resolutions (16 of them) were sent out to all delegates. Life gets busy for us Jews right before Pesach, and for an Orthodox Jewish slate like ours filled with working parents whose kids would be off from school on Pesach break for the next two weeks, it’s really impossible to devote time to extracurriculars.

Furthermore, with the Congress starting just a few days after Passover, there was really no time after the holiday to review/react to the resolutions until the Congress was almost upon us. I personally was only able to review and share my comments during a layover in Atlanta, on the way to Israel.

Upon reading them I was shocked at how many different ways “75 Years for the State of Israel” could be twisted to justify partisan and highly divisive resolutions. There were resolutions to criticize the current Israeli government, to impose stricter gender quotas on the Congress, to support particular social causes unrelated to Zionism or Israel, and, most egregiously, to target certain segments of Orthodox Jews in an attempt to exclude them from WZO activities or funding due to their religious beliefs.

That last one hurt the most. While many of the resolutions were divisive and flew in the face of the purpose of the gathering and all the speeches about Jewish unity and mutual respect, the carefully crafted resolutions about so-called “non-Zionists” and banning activities and cooperation with them and with organizations whose values contract the values of the Declaration of Independence (which themselves are open to interpretation) were the worst by far. They were clearly targeting Haredi Orthodox Jews in general and our slate in particular.

It seems that some of our fellow Jews care little about our support for or investment in Israel, our high rates of visiting and studying in Israel, and high rates of aliyah. Rather, they care more about our differences: our dress, our adherence to traditional Torah values, our reverence for rabbinic leaders and our discomfort with attempts to diminish the Jewish character of Israel.

But long before there was a modern state of Israel, there was a land called Eretz Yisrael, our

G-d given holy land. Long before Theodore Herzl promoted settling in the Land of Israel, aliyah was promoted by the Rambam, the Vilna Gaon and the Baal Shem Tov. It is this philosophy that qualified us for the 2020 World Zionist Congress elections in the first place, and these values are Jewish values, and are not in conflict with the WZO. To the contrary, in a highly fractured Jewish world where Israel is constantly under fire and where antisemitism is on the rise at alarming rates, our shared historical and religious connections to Eretz Yisrael and the protection of those connections should be a cause of unity and celebration across denominations and ideologies.

One of my rabbis asked me if I made any personal connections with Jews from different backgrounds amid the chaos and divisiveness. I shared with him that in my committee room we were debating three resolutions. After a more intense vote, I walked across the room to a slate opposed to our ideology. I explained where we were coming from, why we could never accept the wording they wanted on an upcoming resolution and offered compromise language we could live with. Their delegates first looked at me in shock, wondering what I was doing there, and then upon seeing I was serious, called over the leader of their delegation to continue the conversation. In the end, we worked what we could, and that leader walked over to me after the voting to express his appreciation that I came over to talk to them.

Jewish unity despite our differences. Isn’t that the whole point? If the Jewish tent is so big at the WZO, is it still too small for Haredi Orthodox Jews? I can think of at least one person whose mind I may have changed to agree with, or at least soften to that belief. I hope more will follow.

Marc Jacob, a former Millstone Fellow, volunteers for a number of local Jewish organizations. He is the managing attorney of the Jacob Law Firm LLC and Home Sweet Legal in Clayton, and he lives in University City with his wife and their five sons.

Eastern Europe journey is powerful reminder ‘to bear witness, to shout out to the world what happened’ during Holocaust

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEBBIE AND KENT HIRSCHFELDER

ARTS AND CULTURE FOOD HOLIDAYS LIFESTYLES

Five questions for Evolution Festival impresario Joe Litvag

The festival will bring a host of bands, including The Black Keys, Brandi Carlile, The Black Crowes, Ice Cube and Ben Harper to Forest Park on Aug. 26 and 27

BY BILL MOTCHAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

St. Louis hasn’t hosted a major St. Louis summer music festival in Forest Park since the final Loufest in 2017. This year, on Aug. 26 and 27, that will change with the inaugural Evolution Festival. The event will bring together headliners The Black Crowes, Brandi Carlile, The Black Keys, Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals, Ice Cube, The Sugar Hill Gang and other popular national artists.

Joe Litvag, founder of the Just Listen Company, is planning the event with his mentor and former boss Steve Schankman, the head of Contemporary Productions. Litvag, 53, who attends Congregation Shaare Emeth, offered some insight into the logistics of organizing a music festival.

How did Evolution Festival come about?

When I decided to start my own company a couple years ago, Steve and I decided we were going to try to do some things together if it made sense. One of the first things that came up was the possibility of a new festival for St. Louis. There was definitely a need and a demand for it. We wanted to do something that the city could be proud of.

You’ve curated a fairly diverse lineup. Was there a philosophy you used as inspiration when you selected artists?

Steve, myself, and Jeff Jarrett, who works at Contemporary Productions, helped collectively

decide what we wanted. We spent months putting pieces together. It’s like a puzzle. The most important thing was to provide a little something for everybody and for people to explore new music they hadn’t heard before.

How complex is the process of stage crews prepping for bands to keep the schedule running on time?

To put on a successful festival takes an incredible team of professionals with special skill sets. It is no easy job. And you have to have a certain skill set to be able to do those things because there are timetables. We put together a run of show schedule, and we like to try to be as sticklers as we can. The crew that’s working has to know exactly what they’re doing to get everything set up.

Evolution Festival will feature not just music but also bourbon and BBQ. How did you come up with that trifecta?

Bourbon is a spirit that has exploded in the U.S. over the last 10 years or so, and we didn’t see anything significant around bourbon happening in St. Louis. So we thought it would be a perfect tie-in. And with drinks comes food and the pieces were pretty easy to put in place. We just wanted to kind of make it unique and something that St. Louis hasn’t really done before.

Now that you’re just a few weeks from the festival, have you seen enthusiasm increase among music lovers?

Yes, the feedback really from day one when we announced the full lineup has been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve noticed an incredible pickup over the last couple of weeks and buzz and chatter on the socials and sales. Our goal has always been to create a multi-year plan to grow the festival. Steve and I said, let’s do something new that people can be proud of and have great feelings about and build new memories.

Check out the Evolution Festival website (evolutionfestival.com/) for tickets and additional information. The festival F.A.Q.s offers details about parking and items allowed in the festival grounds, including lawn chairs and sealed water bottles or empty plastic refillable water bottles. Litvag recommended that attendees drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Evolution Festival

WHEN: Aug. 26-27; gates open at 2 p.m.

WHERE: In the areas known as Langenberg Field and the Boat House at Forest Park

HOW MUCH: Weekend general admission starts at $169.50 for both days and $89.50 for single day

MORE INFO: evolutionfestival.com

Vibrant theater scene should make St. Louis proud

BY NANCY KRANZBERG SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

Every time I begin to write about theater in our town, I panic. Where do I begin and what should I focus on?

We all know about the Fabulous Fox, Shakespeare in the Park, The Muny, The Rep and other groups that are tried and true, such as Stages, New Line Theatre, Upstream Theatre, Stray Dog Theatre, Max & Louie Productions and the St. Louis Actor’s Studio, just to name a few.

At a dinner party I attended recently, a couple from Chicago said St. Louisans are always coming to Chicago for theater. They noted that St. Louis has a ton of high-quality theatrical groups, and that they often come here to see a show.

Years ago, I took a short writing course from Washington University’s late and beloved professor, William H. Gass. The most valuable lesson I learned was to write in the form of lists. So here goes.

What and how should I list? We have wonderful musical theater from The Fox and its Broadway Series to Fly North Theatrical, which performs at the .Zack in Grand Center. They produce new local and accessible high-quality works.

Mary McCreight is president of the board of directors of Arts for Life, an organization that is “dedicated to promoting public awareness of local community theater, encouraging excellence in the arts and acknowledging the incredible people who are a part of it.” Arts for Life recognizes the plethora of community theater groups through its Best Performance Awards and Theatre Mask Awards.

“Every year judges are sent out to the community to review the mom-and-pop theaters as well as the well-established community theaters in Missouri and Illinois,” McCreight says.

Mike Isaacson, artistic director of The Muny says, “The musical is now one of the world’s greatest and most beloved forms of entertainment and art.”

Scott Miller of New Line Theater says, “The best musicals have everything the best plays have: great words, great characters, great emotions, great drama and comedy, timeless themes, universal truths, but musicals also have music.”

And Circus Flora and Opera Theatre of St. Louis really belong in the musical theater category as well.

There are children’s theaters of all kinds in St. Louis. Metro Theater is a well-

known one that has been nationally recognized. There’s also Ignite Theater, established in 2015 as an inclusion theater company for all youngsters; the Rep’s Imaginary Theater Company; and COCA has all kinds of children’s productions and acting classes for kids.

Then there are those theater companies whose works don’t necessarily fall easily into a category. Joan Lipkin’s That Uppity Theater Company promotes active community involvement while it focuses on themes of racial and gender equality as well as disability issues.

Susan Colangelo’s Saint Louis Story Stitchers works with local youth ages 15 to 24 to document their experiences and promote understanding through music, visual arts, poetry and community engagement

And the week-long, cutting-edge St. Louis Fringe Festival, which takes place Aug. 14-20 in Grand Center, features dozens of artists and artistic genres whose performances are by, as they say, brave artists, and for, bold audiences.

Carrie Houk’s Tennessee Williams Festival, which will perform “Suddenly

Last Summer” Sept. 7-17 at COCA’s Berges Theatre, now compares to Tennessee Williams festivals in New Orleans and

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.

Cape Cod, Mass.

Philip Boehm’s Upstream Theater produces foreign works that have been translated by Boehm himself into English.

And I also would be remiss if I didn’t mention the plethora of strong theatrical groups that exist at our local universities. Venues for all of these performances are all over town. In addition to the ones already mentioned, others include the Grandel Theater and the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, with 18 theater groups working in their facilities, and Stages, which opened a beautiful theater in the new Kirkwood Performing Arts Center.

As my friend Lana Pepper, one of the founders of the Shakespeare Festival, says about St. Louis, “You can go to dinner and a play practically every night of the year.”

Joe Litvag

THE ARTS IN ST. LOUIS

FEATURES

JEWISH CELEBRITIES

BY NATE BLOOM SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

Singer Tony Bennett died July 21 at age 96. I had the good fortune of hearing him perform a few of his classics in front of San Francisco’s City Hall in 1996. As I looked around, I noticed how diverse the large adoring crowd was in terms of race, age and gender.

I long knew he was a mensch. In one of his memoirs, he spoke about the harassment that Italians got in his New York neighborhood. Then he noted that Blacks and Jews “had it worse.”

Bennett walked with Dr. Martin Luther King in the voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery in 1965. This took some courage because the marchers were often subjected to violence. The Jewish celebs who walked with King and Bennett included actresses SHELLEY WINTERS and INA BALIN, LEONARD BERNSTEIN, comedian ALAN KING and PETER YARROW (of Peter, Paul and Mary fame).

I’m sure that Bennett had tons of Jewish connections. I can only cover here a few of them. The most notable Jewish tie is his daughter, singer ANTONIA BENNETT, now 49. She converted to Judaism in 2013, shortly before her marriage to Israeli businessman RONEN HELLMAN

Bennett walked his daughter down to the chuppah. In 2013, Antonia Bennett told a Jewish paper that she was guided in her conversion studies by a Chabad rabbi. In a 2015 interview, she said she and her husband were members of an Orthodox minyan.

Antonia sings jazzy stuff, sophisticated

pop songs, and some of the tunes her father sang. She has many videos on YouTube (some duets with her father).

Tony Bennett had several low points in his very long career. One came in 1968. In the late ’60s, singers of “standards,” like Bennett and Perry Como, were being eclipsed by rock music singers. Bennett’s agent thought an acting role might help his career and he agreed to take a co-starring role in “The Oscar.” The film had a good cast and a pretty big budget. But the script was so bad, it was almost good.

Bennett played Hymie Kelley, the go-fer for a “bad guy” actor who somehow got an Oscar nomination. Hymie was supposed to be the son of a Jewish mother and an Irish father. Bennett played Hymie “pretty Jewish.” He was actually pretty good as Hymie, but “The Oscar” was his first and last movie.

Bennett’s co-star in the film was JILL ST. JOHN, now 82. She was born Jill Oppenheim. St. John and TINA ‘Gilligan’s Island’ LOUISE, now 89, were the top “stealth” Jewish bombshells of the ’60s.

Like Sinatra, a huge percentage of Bennett’s hit songs were written by Jewish songwriters. The “Greatest Hits” section of his official YouTube channel has 24 songs — 14 were written or co-written by Jews. Four are by GEORGE and IRA GERSHWIN

uine musical talent.

If you have seen “Oppenheimer,” or plan to see it, also watch the new documentary “To End the War: Oppenheimer and the Atomic Bomb.”

No documentary can cover any big topic completely, but this 90-minute film is the best documentary about physicist J. ROBERT OPPENHEIMER (1904-67) that I’ve seen. It features commentary by Kai Bird and the late MARTIN SHERWIN, co-authors of the book that

the feature film was based upon. Bird’s segments were filmed for the documentary. Sherwin frequently talked about Oppenheimer before his death and recorded excerpts from those talks are used in the documentary. If you get MSNBC, you can view it on-demand. If you don’t — well, three different people have posted the entire film on YouTube. I am not saying you should view a pirate copy (which are all over YouTube) — I am just saying they are there as I write this.

SIMCHAS

BIRTHS ENGAGEMENTS WEDDINGS MITZVOT

SUBMIT YOUR SIMCHA ANNOUNCEMENT FOR FREE!

Harvey Kornblum Foundation

Liv Brea Spiegelglass, daughter of Yona and Tim Spiegelglass of St. Louis, became a bat mitzvah on June 24, 2023 at Central Reform Congregation.

A rising seventh grader at Ladue Middle School, Liv’s interests are vast and include violin, theater, Legos, swimming and sports, to name a few.

Liv’s true love is reading, and when she learned many kids don’t have any books at home, she knew she needed to do a mitzvah project that would change that for as many kids as possible. So, she gathered hundreds of kids’ books from family and friends, highlighted everyone’s generosity by displaying the books during her bat mitzvah party, then donated the books to various nonprofit organizations that serve kids. Her mitzvah project also included reading to kids at the Jewish Community Center after-school program.

Liv is the granddaughter of Barry and Renee Spiegelglass, and Dan and Gloria Kweskin, all of St. Louis. She is the great-granddaughter of the late Ben (Chick) and Shirley Kweskin, the late Sass and Sarah Ezekiel, the late Sol and Lee Lubeck, and the late Harold and Anne Spiegelglass, all from St. Louis.

Liv has two siblings, Kyla, who is 14, and Meadow, who is 9.

Paige Krug and Nathan Herman have announced their engagement.

Paige is the daughter of Elise and Mark Krug of St. Louis and the granddaughter of the late Kathleen Jacobson of Dallas, the late Philip and Corrine Jacobson of Ft. Worth, Texas and the late Judy Krug of Overland Park, Kan. and Barbara Krug and the late Sanford Krug of Prairie Village, Kan.

Nathan is the son of Adina Herman of Highland Park, Ill. and Mark Herman of Chicago. He is the grandson of Elissa Rolnick Rubinstein and the late Lawrence Rubinstein of Glencoe, Ill. and Gayle Herman and the late Morton Herman of Chicago.

The bride-to-be attended the University of Kansas, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in

education and a Bachelor of Arts in Jewish studies. She works as a Certified ADHD Life Coach.

The groom-to-be is a graduate American University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in criminology, with a minor in early childhood education. He is an engineer at Chicago American Manufacturing. Knowing she was moving to Chicago, Paige wanted to meet someone living there. Thanks to Hinge (an online dating app), she and Nathan connected and three weeks later, he came to St. Louis to meet Paige in person. They had Shabbat dinner with her family and the rest is history.

Nathan surprised Paige on the beach in Mexico, asking her to marry him. A May 2024 wedding is planned.

Charlotte Goldstein, daughter of Jamie and Adam Goldstein of St. Louis, became a bat mitzvah in May 2023 at United Hebrew Congregation.

Charlotte is the granddaughter of Terri Garland, Susan Fiman, Paul Goldstein and the late Kristen Goldstein, all of St. Louis. She is the great-granddaughter of the late Lillian and Bert Horwitz, the late Milton and Marianne Goldstein, and the late Isadore and Cecile Fiman, all of St. Louis.

Charlotte has one sibling, Miles Goldstein, who is 11 years old.

Entering the eighth grade at Parkway West Middle School, Charlotte (Charlie) enjoys playing lacrosse and being on a competitive cheer team. She loves animals and spending time with her friends. Her favorite place to be each summer is at Camp Sabra.

Brooke Lashley and Bradley Weinstein of St. Louis would like to announce the birth of their son, Oliver Noah Lashley, on June 5, 2023, weighing 8 pounds, 1 ounce.

Oliver is the grandson of Jayne Lashley of St. Louis, Jordan Horowitz of New York City, and Bonnie and the late Richard Weinstein of St. Louis.

BAT MITZVAH: LIV BREA SPIEGELGLASS KRUG-HERMAN ENGAGEMENT

BAT MITZVAH: CHARLOTTE GOLDSTEIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY

CHAI LIGHTS

SUNDAY | AUG. 13

NHBZ Men’s Event: Scotch, Cigars and Learning

The scotch will flow and the cigars will glow at NHBZ’s Men’s Event: “Scotch, Cigars and Learning.” All men in the community are invited to join for minyan at 6:15 p.m., and then attend the program that begins at 6:45 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to savor smooth scotch and cigars, schmooze with friends and enjoy Torah learning with NHBZ Rabbi Chaim Bogopulsky. There is no charge for this event, and NHBZ membership is not necessary to attend. For more information, call 314-991-2100, ext. 2.

St. Charles Jewish Festival

The third annual St. Charles Jewish Festival will take place from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. outside the Foundry Art Centre, celebrating Jewish life and culture and bringing Jewish sights and sounds from around the world to St. Charles. This year, organizers are planning a new addition: the ‘Shtetl Village,’ which will take participants back in time to a whimsical reenactment of life in the shtetl — the small Eastern European Jewish town that was a hallmark of Old World Jewish life for centuries. The shtetl will include crafts, traditional delicacies and a petting zoo to complete the rural village feel. The festival is organized by the Chabad Jewish Center of St. Charles County and The Gan St. Charles Preschool, which serves the estimated 6,000 Jews who live in St. Charles County. For more information about the festival, visit www.jewishstcharles.org.

TUESDAY | AUG. 15

Summer blood drive at Kol Rinah

Kol Rinah’s Tzedek Team has partnered with ImpactLife for a blood drive from 3 to 5:45 p.m. at Kol Rinah. Appointments are required for all donors. Kosher snacks will be provided. Donors must be healthy, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be 17 or older (16 with a signed parent/guardian consent). Mask optional. Participants should hydrate ahead of their appointment. Sign up at https:// login.bloodcenter.org/donor/schedules/ drive_schedule/124921

WEDNESDAY | AUG. 16

Breast and Ovarian Cancer Support Group

– The Hamsa Wellness Community

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 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. 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.

regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, for a discussion of “The current state of antisemitism and what we can do about it,” from 10 to 11:30 a.m. RSVP required at www.ti-stl.org/AdultEducation.

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

STARTING | AUG. 22

Jewish Mindfulness Center’s Mind, Body and Spirit Series

See related news brief on page 5A.

WEDNESDAY | AUG. 23

Aish plans Hebrew Reading Crash Course

At 7 p.m. join Aish and learn to read Hebrew in six easy lessons. The course is free, but registration is required by contacting Rabbi Yosef David at 314-862-2474 or ydavid@aish.com. Location: Aish Firehouse, 457 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield.

THURSDAY | AUG. 24

Mirowitz Center Book Clubs

NHBZ

Ladies Learning Event: Rebbetzin on a Ride

All ladies in the community are welcome to join as we welcome Rebbetzin Giti Fredman at 7:15 p.m. Learn the wonderful nuggets of knowledge Fredman gained after deciding to tackle a 75-mile charity bike ride. She will share a detailed narrative, from training to finish line, of the physical and spiritual lessons she gained along the way. There is no charge for this event, and NHBZ membership is not necessary to participate. RSVP’S are recommended but not required. For more information, call 314-991-2100, ext. 2.

THURSDAY | AUG. 17

The Beatles: ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’

From 3 to 4:40 p.m. University Instructor Neil Davis is back with another set in his popular series about The Beatles. “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” is one of the most influential albums ever produced. To register for this free, in-person Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

NCJWSTL Lunch & Learn on toxic insurance practices

From noon to 1 p.m., join NCJWSTL for a lunch and learn with Kevin Hawkins from Missouri Jobs with Justice. He will discuss toxic insurance practices — what happens when insurance companies fail to fulfill their promises to customers. Visit https://bit.ly/ NCJW-Aug17 to register for the August Lunch &Learn. For more information, contact Jen Bernstein at jbernstein@ncjwstl.org or 314-993-5181.

SUNDAY | AUG. 20

ADL leader Jordan Kadosh discusses antisemitism

Temple Israel will welcome Jordan Kadosh,

Shakshuka

Reception kicks off new B’nai Amoona art exhibit

Congregation B’nai Amoona will open its newest art exhibit with an artist reception from 2 to 4 p.m. The exhibit will feature contemporary paintings and unique rug designs of Faith Berger, evocative landscapes and other paintings of Frank Enger, beautiful and remarkable impressionist paintings of Max Scharf (z”l), interpretive judaic biblical stories in graphic design by Rabbi Dale Schreiber and ceramic sculptures by Lester Goldman. The exhibit runs through Nov. 30. The artist reception will include light refreshments and music by harpist Karen Noss. For more information, email artgallery@bnaiamoona.com.

Jewish War Veterans Meeting

Jewish War Veterans Post 644 will meet in the Kaplan-Feldman Holocaust Museum meeting room at 10 a.m. on the third Sunday each month (ask for directions at the desk). A Zoom option will be available for those who are unable to be at the meeting. For more information and the Zoom link contact Post 644 Commander Ellis Frohman at 636-5197512 (leave a message if no one answers).

Kol Rinah plans Summerfest

Kol Rinah will hold Summerfest — an inclusive outdoor community event for all ages — from 3 to 6:30 p.m. The event will include live music by Shakshuka, Will Soll and Karen Kern; lawn games and family activities, including a balloon artist and a Make & Take Booth by Mad Science of STL; food, refreshments and treats; and raffle prizes. Admission is free, with options to purchase food and other promotional items. For more information, visit www.kolrinahstl. org/event/kol-rinah-summerfest.html. Kol Rinah is partnering with the J, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School and PJ Library to plan the event.

TUESDAY | AUG. 22

Mirowitz Center presents Lighten Up Your Life

George Carlin once said, “A house is just a place to keep your stuff while you go out and get more stuff.” The question is, what do you do with your stuff when you’re ready to downsize, the stuff your kids don’t want? Join Design Consultant Linda Kusmer from 10 to 11 a.m. as she talks about the positive side of downsizing and what to do with the things you don’t need. This program is provided with FEL (Friends Enjoying Life), the Mirowitz Center men’s organization. To register for this free, online Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

Two Mirowitz Center book club meetings are offered every third Thursday of each month – online in the morning (10 to 11 a.m.) and in person during the afternoon (1 to 2 p.m.). The book selection for August is “The Altruists” by Andrew Ridker. The book clubs are facilitated by St. Louis County Librarian Hillary Peppers. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@ mirowitzcenter.org.

The J’s Used Book Sale returns

The St. Louis Jewish Community Center’s biannual Used Book Sale returns to the Staenberg Family Complex Arts & Education Building from Sunday, Aug. 27 to Thursday, Aug. 31. Patrons can stock up on reading materials of every genre—including mysteries, general fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and much more—while benefiting the Cultural Arts Department of the J. The dates and admission prices for the St. Louis Jewish Community Center’s Summer Used Book Sale are as follows: Preview Day –Sunday, Aug. 27 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. ($10 at the door); General Admission – Monday, Aug. 28 -Wednesday, Aug. 30 from 10 a.m.7 p.m., Free; Bag Day – Thursday, Aug. 31 from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. (fill a bag for $5). For updated and complete information visit jccstl.com/programs/used-book-sale/.

TUESDAY | AUG. 29

Second acts: Reinventing & reimagining with music

From 3 to 4 p.m., enjoy music from 52-yearold guitarist Aaron Perlut and 69-year-old bassist Clay Crain, who are embracing music in the second half of their lives. Both are members of the local Atomic Junkshot band, known for its honky-tonk fusion of rock, country and blues, and their off-beat humor. To register for this free, in-person Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

THURSDAY | AUG. 31

Living in the Present: Mindfulness

From 3 to 4 p.m., Jessie Brown of NAMI St. Louis will lead a presentation at the Mirowitz Center on mindfulness – paying attention to the present moment and being aware of one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment. Explore how mindfulness can benefit one’s mental wellness, including reducing depression and anxiety, improving memory, increasing emotional regulation and strengthening relationships. The Mental Wellness Initiative is supported by a grant from the Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged. To register for this free, in-person Mirowitz Center program, visit bit.ly/ Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

The third annual St. Charles Jewish Festival takes place Aug. 13.

will be among the musical guests at Kol Rinah’s Summerfest on Aug. 20, ‘an inclusive outdoor community event for all ages.’

OBITUARIES

MARJORIE DEAN “MISS MARGIE”

BUXNER, July 26, 2023

Beloved wife of Larry Buxner. Dear mother of Evan (Courtney) Buxner. Loving grandmother of Harper, Bodie and Cooper Buxner. Beloved sister of Miriam (the late Marvin) Klamen, Diana (Joel) Schmidt, Linda (the late Dr. Jerrold) Vesper and the late Audrey (late Joe) Montague. Dear aunt, cousin and friend to many.

A funeral service was held Sunday, July 30, at Congregation Shaare Emeth, 11645 Ladue Road. Live stream available at https://sestl.co/margie_ buxner. Interment followed at Chevra Kadisha Cemetery, 1601 North and South Road. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Audrey K. Montague Pre-School Fund, C/O Congregation Shaare Emeth, 11645 Ladue Road, St. Louis, MO 63141.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service

DR LLOYD GEORGE FORESTER, JR , July 18, 2023

Beloved husband of Sandra “Sandi” Rich for ten years. Father of Stephanie (Brian) Wilson Reeve. Bonus Father of Jennifer (Lance) Rich -Thomas and Brent (Jewel) Rich. Loving grandfather of Tennyson and Frankie Thomas and Kooper and Saige Rich.

Beloved brother of Alice (Ed) Wood and the late Diane (the late Jim) Toland.  Loving cat daddy to Midnight. Dear uncle, cousin and friend.

Lloyd George Forester Jr., DDS was a funny, charismatic man who made friends everywhere he went. Lloyd was born in Edwardsville, Kansas and cherished his smalltown roots. Lloyd got his undergraduate degree from K-State University and his graduate degree at UMKC School of Dentistry. Throughout his years as a Dentist, he owned a successful practice in Edwardsville, Kansas and then worked in Dupo, Illinois.

Lloyd was a veteran of the Army, as a reservist in the 101st Airborne Division (The Screaming Eagles). He loved fast cars, racing go karts and riding motorcycles.  He was a member of the Iron Butt Association and once completed the SaddleSore 1000, riding 1000 miles within 24 hours. During one of his rides, he conquered the Tail of the Dragon, completing 11 treacherous miles with 360 curves. Lloyd was an avid coin collector, road trip enthusiast, movie buff, a hunter and skilled sharpshooter, and a connoisseur of carrot cake.

In addition to having the most “impressive sneaker collection West of the Mississippi”, he thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Lloyd was most proud of being a husband to Sandi and always tried to match her energy. Lloyd’s adventurous life should be celebrated. He will truly be missed by his family and friends.

A funeral service was held Monday, July 31st at New Community Church, 16801 Manchester

Road, followed by interment at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Road. Contributions in his memory may be made to the New Community Church, 16801 Manchester Road, Grover, MO, 63040 or to the charity of the donor’s choice. In appreciation and memory of Lloyd’s dynamic palate, Carrot Cake was immediately served following the funeral service.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service

ROGER L. GOLDMAN, July 29, 2023

Funeral services for Roger L. Goldman, a beloved St. Louis University law professor and a national leader in police reform, were held August 1, 2023 at Central Reform Congregation, 5020 Waterman Boulevard at Kingshighway. The interment was private.

Professor Goldman, 82, died while surrounded by his family on July 29, 2023 after a long illness.

Professor Goldman’s police-related crusade began in 1980 when he learned of the killing of an unarmed man by a Bridgeton Terrace policeman. Remembering that the same officer had been fired three years earlier by Maplewood police after being accused of prisoner abuse, he wondered how this man could have landed another police job a few miles away.

The question led him to discover that few legal mechanisms anywhere prevented police fired from one job from moving to another — “wandering cops.” He proposed a solution: States should write laws strengthening their ability to revoke the licenses of police who had committed significant misconduct — just as states already had for many other professions.

Through law review articles, conference talks, and other means, Roger advocated for licenserelated reforms for more than 40 years. Recognized as the nation’s foremost expert on police licensure, he was often quoted in The New York Times and other prominent newspapers and seen on PBS News Hour and other news programs.

His persistence, calm persuasion, and lack of egotism paid off, with 10 states adopting the kind of legislation he advocated and dozens more strengthening existing laws.

A revered teacher at SLU Law School, Roger was best known for his courses in Constitutional law and was named teacher of the year three times. He also co-authored three award-winning books on legal subjects and served twice as Associate Dean and once as Interim Dean. In 2017, the law school inducted him into its Order of the Fleur de Lis, the school’s highest honor.

From 1974 to 1976 Roger also served as president of the ACLU of Eastern Missouri; in 1984 as the first president of Central Reform Congregation, which he also helped found; and in 1991 as president of Community School. Astonishingly, he did all this without breaking a sweat.  Roger’s default expression was a smile, and he found humor everywhere.

The son of Dr. Alfred and Miriam Goldman,

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

Roger graduated from John Burroughs School, Harvard University, and the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

Surviving are his wife, Stephanie Riven; two sons, Josh (Sarah) of St. Louis and Sam, of San Francisco; two grandchildren, Jacob and Lily, of St. Louis; a brother, Tom (Barbara Kosnar), of Mill Valley, CA.; and innumerable friends and admirers.  Another brother, Alan, of Raleigh, NC, predeceased him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the ACLU of Missouri, the Central Reform Congregation Music Fund, SLU Law School, or the organization of your choice.

Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for funeral and live-streaming details.

Berger Memorial Service

RABBI BARUCH (BRUCE) HYMAN was born in 1959 and raised in West St. Louis County. He was a graduate of Pattonville High School and did his rabbinical studies in Israel.

While in Israel, he met and married his wife. They then settled in Pittsburgh, PA and raised a loving family. Baruch was also a strong and active member of the Chabad community there. He owned and operated Crown Antiques, one of the largest antique shops in the Pittsburgh area.

Baruch passed away on July 7, 2023 after a courageous fight with cancer.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara (Kreisman) Hyman, and his twin sister, Phyllis (Hyman) Hoing. He is survived by his wife, Taibke (Cohen) Hyman, and their 8 children; Sarah Esther Bongart, Chaya Hoffinger, Moishe Hyman, Nomi Leimdorfer, Miriam Horowitz, Bluma Dinerman, Baila Hyman, Dini Kreitenberg and many grandchildren. He is also survived by his father, Leonard Hyman, sister Cherie Hyman and many friends and relatives.

Memorial contributions to a charity of the donor’s choice appreciated.

OBITUARIES INDEX

Buxner, Marjorie

Dean “Miss Margie”

Forester, Jr., Dr. Lloyd George

Goldman, Roger L.

Hyman, Rabbi Baruch (Bruce)

Kolberg, Louise Alport Levin, Donald L.

Markus, Jr., George L. Marshall, Lois Rosenberg, Bernard Schneider, Adele Spencer, Saline Tischler, Evelyn Young, Dr. Robert Allen

DONALD L. LEVIN, a veteran of his community and country and the beloved patriarch of his family, died July 25 at his home in Chesterfield. He was 87.

Don grew up the eldest of three children in St. Louis. He received his undergraduate degree in engineering from Washington University, where he joined the ROTC program and where he met his wife Nancy at the university’s Hillel House. He was stationed at Ladd Air Force Base after graduating, and the newly married couple moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, where their first daughter, Adrienne, was born.

They moved back to St. Louis soon after and had two more children, Hillary and David. Don received his master’s degree in business administration from St. Louis University and began working at Anheuser-Busch, where he was a national manager of operations and planning. He then joined Jewish Hospital of St. Louis and BJC Health System, where he retired in 1998 as the vice president of development. Under his leadership, the hospital raised more than $65 million for research and patient care. Through the years, Don was involved with many groups and charitable organizations. He was president of the St. Louis chapter of the National Society of Fundraising Executives and a member of its national board, a member of the board of directors at Temple Shaare Emeth, an elected member to the Board of Education in University City, chairman of his neighborhood’s board of trustees, a member of the Interfaith Partnership of Metropolitan St. Louis and an officer of the board of directors for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

LOUISE

Beloved wife of Stephen B. Hoyt; loving widow of the late William H. Kolberg; dear mother of Alison Denise Kolberg; daughter of the late Abraham and Esther Levy Alport; beloved sister and sister-in-law of Doris and the late Eliot M. Alport; step-mother of Diane (Donald) Janukajtis, Deborah (Brian) Smith, Joyce (Charles Moyers) Kolberg, Charles (Cresentia Stonacek) Kolberg and Elizabeth Hoyt; special aunt to Edward (Caren) Alport, David (Jake Hobson) Alport, Richard (Stephanie) Alport; and grandmother, great aunt, loving cousin and dear friend to many others.

Louise had an irrepressible love of life. She greeted each day with passion and curiosity as she celebrated her love of art, travel, music and, especially family. Louise traveled extensively as a young woman, especially in her service for CARE, and she continued to be excited by the world around her and the adventures of her loved ones. Whether dining at the White House with husband Bill, or ordering in with family and friends, Louise lived her life with gusto, joy and presence. She was a beautiful, dynamic force, and lit up the lives of all she met.

A graveside funeral service was held on Sunday, August 6th at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road. Memorial contributions preferred to the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry (https://jfsstl.org/support/ donate/) or to the charity of your choice.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service

Don was an avid fisherman, golfer and nature enthusiast — he loved grilling on the back brick patio that he built by hand, where he could often be found watching the deer and wildlife that grazed in his wooded backyard. He took great joy in passing those passions to his grandchildren, teaching them to golf on the strip of putting green in his bedroom and to fish at the pond near his house.

He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy Fleischmann Levin; his parents, Henry Levin and Babette Levin Birenbaum; his stepbrother Steven (Marsha) Birenbaum; and his son-in-law, Robert Lee Coleman, Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne Merriman Levin; his children, Adrienne Levin Coleman, Hillary Levin and David (Cynthia) Levin; his sisters, Elaine Unell and Marilyn Brown; his stepbrothers Robert (Vicki) Birenbaum and Kenneth (Sandra) Birenbaum; and many loving grandchildren, nieces, nephews, stepchildren, cousins and friends.

Funeral services were held on July 30 at Congregation Shaare Emeth, followed by a graveside service at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in Chesterfield. Memorial contributions can be made to the Nancy Levin Preschool Fund at Shaare Emeth.

Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

Obituaries continue on opposite page

American Flag symbol denotes a United States military veteran.

ALPORT KOLBERG, July 30, 2023, Age 93 of Bethesda, Maryland

GEORGE L. MARKUS JR , August 3, 1933 –August 4, 2023

George Markus died peacefully one day after his 90th birthday, which he had celebrated with family and friends.

George had a long career in real estate, working with his team of partners – Milton Goldenberg, Shelley Fisher and Seymour Bailis. George was a lover of the arts, especially the St. Louis Symphony. He was a serious collector of art, wine, antique carpets and plants.

George is survived by his wife Phyllis Woollen Markus, his children, Ellen Markus (Bill Sherman), David Markus, Suzanne Alpert (Gary), Katie Silberman (Bryan Knapp), Bryce Woollen (Stefanie), Hilary Cedergreen (Jacob), and his many loving grandchildren, Elliot and Grace Sherman, Hannah and Abigail Alpert, Lincoln and Haven Knapp, Benjamin, Chloe and Eliza Cedergreen and Cooper and Sydney Woollen.  He will be sorely missed.

A funeral service was held Sunday, August 6th at New Mt. Sinai Mausoleum, 8430 Gravois. Memorial contributions preferred to the Missouri Botanical Gardens or the charity of your choice.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

LOIS MARSHALL, July 24, 2023

Lois, 94, passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Aloe Marshall of 67 years; and is survived by her three children: Linda Peterson (Michael), Larry Marshall, and Ken Marshall Jr. (Lois); five grandchildren: Sarah (Josh), Nathanael (Christine), Blair (Kevin), Marlee and Dylan; and five great-grandchildren: Fiona, Wyatt, Maya Pearl, Amelia, and Peter.

Lois, who spent her early childhood in Granite City, IL, never met a stranger and had the magical ability to make everyone she loved feel like she loved them most of all. From 1972 to 2000, she extended this attention and commitment to girls involved with the St Louis County Juvenile Court as a Volunteer Deputy Juvenile Office (DJO). As a DJO, she counseled girls who had committed status offenses and their parents, often single mothers. She attended Court hearings, referred them to community programs, and, most importantly, made them feel seen and important. She stayed in contact with many of the girls after their cases were closed, exchanging letters, and inviting them to her home.

In addition to her cases, Lois was instrumental in growing the Payback program, which funds and administers restorative justice programs. Originally funded by a single grant, Lois organized and hosted many fundraising events, which helped to support the children and their families but also to grow the program significantly. She also helped plan, promote, and produce annual fundraisers for Jewish Hospital and the St Louis Zoo.

Lois, known in her youth as “Sunny’’ and later as “Yoyo,” would light up a room with her charm and grace. She cherished long walks, card games, and lifelong friends. She was a devoted sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved her people, especially when she was surrounded by them. Never missing an opportunity to express her joy, Lois’s life was filled with moments that made her “cup runneth.”

A private family service will be held.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to PayBack, 702 E. Monroe Ave, St. Louis, MO 63122 or to the charity of your choice.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service

BERNARD ROSENBERG, July 28, 2023

Beloved husband of the late Florence Rosenberg; dear father and father-in-law of Sheryl Peterson (late Michael) and Edyth Healy (late Patrick); dear grandfather of Stephan Peterson (Clinique), Rochelle Healy-Merrell (Jon) and Greg Healy (Sammy); dear greatgrandfather of Flora Healy; dear  brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend.

A graveside service was held Monday, July 31st at United Hebrew Cemetery, 7855 Canton Avenue. Memorial contributions preferred to JDRF, NORC-St. Louis or the St. Louis Zoo.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

ADELE SCHNEIDER, July 7, 1926-July 27, 2023, passed away peacefully at the age of 97. She is preceded in death by her parents, Rose and Albert Schneider, two sisters, Frances (Dan) Robbins, Shirley (Sidney) Wasserman, and a step-great nephew, Ryan McCoy.

She is survived by her five nieces, Barbara (Mike) Newbold, Judy (Nick) Paskal, Nancy Giannasi, Lori Frieze, Mary (Mark) Antonacci, eight great nieces, two great nephews, and seven great-great nephews.

Adele went to Soldan High School and played the drums in the marching band. After graduation, she attended Miss Hickey’s Training School for Secretaries. With these professional skills, Adele started working for Standard Oil Company, first in New York and then in Chicago. She returned to St. Louis in 1972 and worked as a secretary for the city of Overland until her retirement.

Adele had quite a few talents. Her tennis skills could have taken her to Wimbledon. She played the piano and would often play tunes at social events. For several years, Adele was a scout leader for a girl scout troop at the JCCA. Her all-time favorite was attending family gatherings. You could always find Adele snapping pictures and then sharing these treasured photos with others.

A graveside service was held Tuesday, August 1st at United Hebrew Cemetery, 7855 Canton Avenue.  Donations may be made to the PKD Foundation (Polycystic Kidney Disease) or to the charity of your choice.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

SALINE SPENCER passed away peacefully on July 24th, at the age of 91.

Beloved mother of Robert (the late Dorothy) Ritzer, Jay (Gail) Ritzer, and Caryn (Bruce) Sandweiss; Loving grandmother of Jeremy (Stephanie) Levinson, Sarah (Trey) Overman, Sydney Stein, and Jacob Sandweiss; Cherished great grandmother of Hyatt Overman, Callie Rose Levinson and Noah Stein. Beloved sister of FeFe (Al Block) Passer and Essie (Earl) Kessler. Dear aunt, cousin and friend.

After suffering a major stroke at age 56, Saline’s strong will to live gave us 35 more years and she never complained about the resulting physical impairments.

A funeral service was held Friday, July 28 at Congregation Temple Israel, 1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive. Livestream available at https:// www.ti-stl.org/watch. Private interment followed. Contributions in her memory may be made to Congregation Temple Israel, 1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63141 or to a charity of your choice. A special thanks to the caring staff at Delmar Gardens West.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service

EVELYN TISCHLER, July 27, 2023

Beloved wife of the late Gene Tischler for 55 years; dear mother and mother-in-law of Sandra Coblitz, Karen (Don) Kirlin and Diane (Douglas Pawloski) Tischler; dear grandmother “Nanny” of Brian (Lauren), Evan (Sophie) and Aaron Coblitz, Arlene Kirlin, Jason Kirlin and Andrea (Chris) Zimmerman, Joshua, Jacob (Mushgan) and Sara Pawloski; dear great-grandmother of Anna Coblitz, Elyse Coblitz, Darynn Kirlin, Penelope and Genevieve Zimmerman and Meena Pawloski; daughter of the late Davis and Matilda (Frank) Canis; sister of the late Milton Canis; dear aunt, cousin and friend to many.

Evelyn’s career began as a bookkeeper for Benson’s, the family clothing business, and later for Essen Hardware. Evelyn also enjoyed volunteering in her later years for the Humane Society of Missouri and the Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She was an avid supporter of the theatre, the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, and several charities.

She raised three daughters in University City and during those years developed a passion for cooking, Mahjong, and travel. Evelyn had a wide variety of cookbooks (including a Helen Corbitt autographed edition) and put them to good use hosting large holiday gatherings where family and food were the focus. Her Frank Family cake was always a crowd pleaser!

She traveled abroad extensively with Gene and continued to do so after his death. She also enjoyed family camping vacations in the Ozarks and hosting reunions for her extended family to various locations in Michigan and Wisconsin. Evelyn’s last reunion was attended by 22 family members in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin this July as she celebrated her 90th birthday!

Throughout the years, Evelyn’s love for dogs grew sparking her interest in helping at the Humane Society. She welcomed many dogs to her home leading up to her beloved, late Franklin and Toby, who misses her terribly!

Evelyn enjoyed spending time on the weekend with the “Saturday Ladies” group, going to the theatre, art museums, botanical gardens, and rooting for her beloved St. Louis Cardinals. But above all, she loved spending time with her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids.

A funeral service was held Sunday July 30 at Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Blvd 63132.

Interment followed at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Rd. Memorial contributions preferred to Lift for Life Academy, Humane Society of Missouri or a charity of your choice. Visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

DR. ROBERT ALLEN YOUNG (71) of St. Louis, MO, died suddenly on July 29, 2023.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Katherine Kreusser, his children, Carol Young Vella (Jason), Adam Richard Young (Jennifer), and four grandchildren Eliza, Natalia, Jacob and Emily, and his sister Pamela Young.

Robert was born in Youngstown, Ohio to parents, Maurice Young (deceased) and Babette Spero Young (deceased). He graduated from the George School in Pennsylvania, the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s in Science, The Ohio State University with a Masters in Science and Medical Doctorate, and Saint Louis University with a Juris Doctorate (attended nights while working full-time with two children). Robert completed his General Surgery and Plastic Surgery residencies at Jewish and Barnes Hospitals and spent most of his career as a Plastic Surgeon at St. Luke’s Hospital, where he also served on the Ethics Board. He retired in 2020 to spend time with family and plan fabulous trips with Katherine.

Robert was reserved and thoughtful, shared what mattered and did what was right. He had a sharp wit and uniquely dry sense of humor. He was a devoted father and grandfather, mentor, teacher, and calm voice to help with any issue. The breadth of his passions and richness of his life matched the depth of his intellect and curiosity. He loved literature, art, music, food, travel, and he assembled unique collections. He advocated an active lifestyle from a young age and passed on his love of the outdoors.

A memorial service was held on Friday, August 4th at Berger Memorial Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region, or the charity of your choice.

Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service

JEWISH LITE

JEWISH CROSSWORD PUZZLE

By Yoni

Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com | ‘Joint Statements’ Difficulty: Easy Find answers to this puzzle online at https://bit.ly/0809-crossword

Across

1. Huge hit

6. Help in a heist

10. Test on the way to becoming an esq.

14. Kind of chip

15. Fury

16. Crossword’s favorite volcano

17. Pure path from Moab to Portland?

19. Wedding wear

20. Norm Peterson and Barney Gumble are often found in one

21. Apt rhyme for “casino”

22. Automaker founded in Turin

23. A page on Reno and Boca Raton?

27. Letter named cereal

28. Foe

29. One way to get to Israel

32. Hastily

34. Prankster on “The Office”

37. Mayim going through St. Louis and Burlington?

41. Prepare, like a Shabbat table

42. Prime cut, perhaps

43. Reading fundamentals

44. Sela of “Beauty and the Baker”

46. Make a mistake

48. Bubbi gushing over her grandchildren in Aspen and Austin?

53. Alsos

54. Famous convert to Judaism

55. Some colas

57. ___ Asar

58. Witness in Bangor and Boise?

61. Zionism color

62. Crude org.

63. Mars vehicle

64. Tests taken before 10-across

65. One that inspires

66. Avoid

Down

1. Leave off the guest list

2. “Torah” preceder

3. “Not ___ in the world”

4. “Sheket!”

5. Kind of 20-Across for some smokers

6. Madison Square Garden, for one

7. All that and a ___ chips

8. “I” problem?

9. Total sons of Jacob minus Joseph and Benjamin

10. Descendants of Jacob that sang in the Beit Hamikdash

11. A good provider holds one down

12. “America” singer in “West Side Story”

13. Dew bracha

18. They’re considered baseball’s oldest team

22. Having more leeway

24. Encyclopedia units: Abbr.

25. Exit

26. Oscar-winner for the song “Falling Slowly”

29. “Mamma Mia!” trio?

30. One might be told to spare feelings

31. Judith Resnik or Jessica Meir, e.g.

32. Smell

33. Lapel attachment

35. End of many co. names

36. Catskills, e.g.: Abbr.

38. Conductor Klemperer and director Preminger

39. Lyft alternative

40. Surname of funny Jewish brothers

45. What the films

(or tunes) by 40-Down are considered

46. Kitchen extension?

47. Bring back to the company

48. She often served Norm Peterson

49. Puts out in the sun, perhaps

50. Small measurement

51. Sukkot branch

52. Timetable: Abbr.

56. Unlike a gracious loser

57. Cable TV sta -

tion

58. Bathsheba to Solomon

59. One-time singing mate of Barney (Gumble) and Homer (Simpson)

60. ___ Ber of Mezeritch

Newman: ‘Barbie Land is the universe opposite of Trump World’

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14A

Special Committee on Government

Oversight hearing about fraudulent ballots that stole the presidential election.

But here’s the truth: The election wasn’t stolen.

Rudy Giuliani lied. His voter fraud allegations had already been debunked by government officials, law enforcement,

judges and the media, and still he baldfaced lied in his testimony. He admitted in a court filing last week that his allegations were false — that he knew he lied. He lied, committing perjury, according to the state witness form Giuliani signed. His Missouri comrades knew at the time that he lied. They also knew of the upcoming Jan. 6t insurrection to overthrow the U.S. Capitol, and some even skipped open-

ing day of the 2021 Missouri Legislature to attend.

Giuliani recanted his lies about a stolen presidential election, but none of the other Missouri elected officials have. In fact, not one Missouri statewide officeholder, including both of our U.S. Senators, has stated that the 2020 presidential election was fairly won. They know the truth, but they can’t handle the truth.

Barbie Land gave us dreams but simultaneously emphasized reality and the value of telling the truth.

Nowhere in pink plastic Barbie Land has it ever advocated bald-faced lies in order to steal elections. Or will it ever. Unlike that former guy’s world.

Maybe Barbie, special counsel for the U.S. Department of Justice, has a nice ring to it, no?

congregation b ’ nai amoona

not your parents’ group

NYPG is a group of 20- to 30-somethings who meet once a month for a social outing. A group of 20 met in June at Pieces. The events are open to the entire Jewish community — no affiliation required. For more information, email Liessa Alperin at liessa@ bnaiamoona.com.

SP TLIGHT

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY

VIEW MORE ONLINE: stljewishlight.org/multimedia

the jewish war veterans memorial day program

The Jewish War Veterans, Post 644, St. Louis conducted a Memorial Day Program on Sunday, May 28, 2023 in the St. Louis Kaplan-Feldman Holocaust Museum. The ceremony honored those St. Louisans who died in past wars as well as veterans who passed away in 2022. The program featured an address by Maharat Rori PickerNeiss, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council as keynote speaker. The program also included the National Anthem, El Molai Rachamim and God Bless America led by Cantor/Rabbi Ronald Eichaker of United Hebrew Congregation. The Ted and Rachael Pevnik Family Scholarship was awarded to Alana Lipsitz, a student at Tulane University. The Chuck Sandroff Scholarship was awarded to Arela Faibisoff, a student at the University of Illinois.

ABOVE: Major Michael Keyser, USA, raises the National Colors BELOW: Nancy Stein receives the Pevnick Scholarship for Alana Lipsitz from Larry Pevnick

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.

Cantor-Rabbi Ronald Eichaker leading the singing of the National Anthem

Josh Faibisoff receiving the Sandroff scholarship for Arela Faibisoff

Maharat Rori Picker Neiss, Keynote Speaker

Bar & Bat Mitzvah PLANNING GUIDE

The newest venue for Bar/Bat mitzvahs? Summer Camp

‘The best day ever!’

BY ELLEN FUTTERMAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Ocean Cohen and her partner, Dani Lizenby, had spent months planning a bar mitzvah for Cohen’s son Orel on Dec. 6, 2022, until she found out her much-needed foot surgery had been scheduled for the same day.

“So we had to cancel the bar mitzvah plans and change everything,” said Cohen, a native Israeli living in Olivette, and director of a cannabis dispensary group here. “We basically decided to do a small party at our home for him and his

December to go back to Camp Sabra, the Jewish Community Center’s residential camp at Lake of the Ozarks. It would be his fifth summer as a camper. He says he keeps going back because he loves it and has made a lot of friends there.

Cohen said, “So I was having a conversation with (Camp Sabra associate director) Lisa Deutsch, who I know from the J, and she said, ‘You know, it doesn’t happen all the time, but he could have his bar mitzvah at camp.’ And as she started talking about it, I thought that’s a really good idea.

“So we sat down with Orel and asked him how he would feel about that. And he loved the idea from the get-go. We decided, great, that’s what we’re going to do.”

On July 22, Orel stood before his Sabra campmates and a small contingent of family members who had driven the three-

plus hours for the occasion and became a bar mitzvah. The ceremony took place outdoors on a glorious summer Saturday morning, with a shimmering Lake of the Ozarks as a backdrop.

Bella Fisher, Sabra’s Judaics director, helped Orel prepare for the big day so that he could run the service and deliver his Torah portion without a hitch.

“This was the best day ever,” Orel told Cohen and Lizenby after the ceremony. “It was so much fun and exciting to see my family during camp, and it was just so easy to get ready for the bar mitzvah at camp. I loved the most having my friends surprise me with special songs they wrote the night before.

“This will be my best memory from camp. It’ll always stay with me and remind me that I have true friends for life.”

Cohen and Lizenby were equally effu-

sive, calling Orel’s bar mitzvah magical.

“It was more than we ever expected it to be,” Cohen said. “The fun and relaxed environment made such a difference and created the most fun and enjoyable day. Another thing we’ve enjoyed so much is the engagement of his camp friends through the service. They helped him lead the service, singing the songs with him and even created some special songs.

“For Dani and I, it was also so relieving and exciting to be accepted and celebrated as an LGBTQ family, having two moms with Orel, up on a stage was nothing I imagined would happen, but Camp Sabra made it happen and we are forever thankful for this amazing day.”

Kim Holtzman Sloan, Sabra Camp director, understands the magic of Sabra’s See CAMP SABRA on page 15B

BAR AND BAT MITZVAHS AT SUMMER CAMPS THRILL FAMILY, FRIENDS

Orel Cohen, 13, is hoisted into the air by family members as they celebrate him becoming a bar mitzvah at Camp Sabra in Lake of the Ozarks on July 22. PHOTOS BY MOLLY HELM & MITCH LIAS

Pareve Pas Yisroel

Five questions for b’nai mitzvot photographer Rimma Bandoim

BY BILL MOTCHAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

The b’nai mitzvah service and celebration can be a whirlwind of activity. Capturing the memorable moments in photographs requires a special skill. Rimma Bandoim, owner of Video Gate Studio Photography (videogatestudio. com), has gained a reputation for excellent work and has a full calendar booked for simchas of all kinds. Bandoim, a member of Congregation Temple Israel, works alongside her husband, Isaak. She offered some insight about how she captures decisive moments.

Do you have any special preparations for the big day of the bar or bat mitzvah?

For the past 15 years, we’ve been doing photo sessions for the kids and their families about two weeks prior to the event. One of my goals is to meet with the kids, because they’re going to be nervous before the service. It’s a big step for them, and sometimes they’re nervous because they’re going to be up there speaking and reading from the Torah. By doing a photo session prior to the service, they already know us and trust us.

How do you use the information from your client meeting to get the best results?

When I meet with the family, I ask a lot of questions. I try to find out if there will be any surprises or anything special. For example, if they have an appearance planned by Louis, the St. Louis Blues mascot, I want to be ready to capture it.

How would you describe your photographic approach?

We photograph candid moments in a journalistic style. I want to capture the excitement. We try to blend in and stay in the background. During the service, we don’t use flash, we use natural light. At TI (Temple Israel), we have permission to walk around, but we do it quietly and set the camera on silent shutter.

Are there certain cues you stay attuned to when you’re shooting photos to make sure you capture special moments for the family?

Yes, when the kids enter the room, I try to be in the right position. Also, we capture the siblings and parents during the service. We always keep an eye out and wait for a reaction from siblings. There’s one photo I have of a father looking with pride at his son, the bar mitzvah boy. You can’t pose that.

What do you like best about your job?

I love to see the excitement when the family arrives at the temple. Sometimes the moms start crying, and I cannot describe the pride of the grandparents. I like to capture happiness. Those are the best moments.

Rimma Bandoim (above), the owner of Video Gate Studio Photography, photographs bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings and other simchas in the St. Louis area.

What’s the biggest thing you learned about yourself in preparing for your bar mitzvah?

It helped me a lot in terms of public speaking. Once I did my bar mitzvah, I figured out there wasn’t really that much of a need to be nervous about public speaking. It also definitely taught me a lot as far as time management.

What’s the best piece of advice you received in anticipation of your bar mitzvah?

If you mess up, they’re not even going to

What stands out most from your bat mitzvah day?

I had an early bat mitzvah at 9 a.m., so I had to wake up at 6 a.m. and it was just me and my mom in the bathroom getting ready. Since I was 12 at the time, she bought me all new makeup and I didn’t know how to use it, so it was her teaching me how to use it while I was getting ready.

What’s one thing you would do differently?

At my party, I didn’t get any of

notice, so just don’t worry about it. And if you do, don’t make a face, just keep going and nobody will even notice.

What’s one thing you would do differently?

Taking the time to understand my Torah portion a little bit better and soaking it all in because it’s kind of all a blur.

How was having your bar mitzvah at the beginning of teenage-hood important to your religious

BY RORY LUSTBERG SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

The Jewish Light caught up with five Jewish young people from St. Louis, ranging in age from 15 to 25, and asked them to reflect on their b’nai mitzvah, then and now.

the dessert because I was too busy dancing. I had a sundae bar, a cake and a candy station, and I didn’t get anything.

How did your bar/bat mitzvah change your connection with Judaism?

It was the turning point when it stopped being my parent’s decision. Now it looks like me making my own decisions to show up. I’m currently at a nine-week Jewish sleepaway summer camp, and I’m interacting with 4-to-9year-olds, teaching them about religion and how to be Jewish. I’m starting to

development?

My family always went to temple, but it was mostly on High Holidays or one or two other times beside High Holidays. [My bar mitzvah] confirmed to me that although I’m not the most active of anyone, I do believe in this community and enjoy being a part of it.

make my own feelings and thoughts about how I feel towards this religion and how I want to continue it and teach it to future generations.

If you could give someone about to start the process advice, what would you say?

Take your Torah portion one step at a time. The more you practice, the easier it will get, but don’t give up on it.

Looking back on your bat mitzvah, what resonates the most from that day?

I remember reading my d’var Torah in front of the congregation probably the most, because in the d’var Torah it talked about Miriam and how she had a skin disease called tzara’at and I have a birth mark on left hand that is red, that kind of separates me from the rest of community. I was able to talk about how that made me unique. Something else I remember is holding my great

grandmother’s hand and that was really special.

Is there anything you would have done differently?

Yes. I don’t think I would have invited as many people as I did because smaller would have made it more special and more intimate.

If you were to give advice to someone preparing for their bar or bat mitzvah, what would it be?

My advice would be to try your best and dig deeper into your spirituality

and the amazing thing that Judaism is and dig deep into the community and how great it is to be Jewish and have so many people who love you and surround you and want the best for you.

How did your bat mitzvah change your connection to Judaism?

It definitely made me think more about who I am and what I want to become in the Jewish world as a person as a whole and the impact I want to leave on the world and my community.

Amelia Swier, 17 Maplewood-Richmond Heights High School Congregation Shaare Emeth

Sarah Hirsch, 19, Parkway Central High School graduate Sophomore at Bradley University Congregation B’nai Amoona

Leo Goodfriend, 21, Clayton High School graduate Senior at University of Indiana-Bloomington Central Reform Congregation

What is your fondest memory of the day?

My grandpa was going through dialysis, and he told me that he wanted to stay alive long enough to see me become a bar mitzvah. I remember reading the Torah portion and after closing up and finishing, I went over and noticed my grandpa was crying. He was just so proud that he got to witness me going through that period in life.

What’s one thing you would do differently?

I wish I would have connected more

What is your fondest memory of the day?

My bat mitzvah was in 2020 (during COVID), so it was a little different than everyone else’s, but I was able to have some friends outside. So being able to see them and celebrate with them was one of my favorite moments.

What’s one thing you would do differently?

I think if I paid more attention to some of the prayers it would have been better because once I got to the day, it was just me standing there without any rabbis or anyone to help me.

What scared you the most?

Messing up. Since I was on Zoom, I couldn’t see anyone, so I was definitely worried I was going to mess up and then not be able to get any help.

with my Torah portion. I saw it as another homework assignment to get done, so I never took a step back and thought, ‘What does this mean to me?’

How did your bar mitzvah change your connection with Judaism? Having the bar mitzvah at the beginning of my teenage years, and then having the freedom to explore Judaism and connect with Judaism on my own after my bar mitzvah, made me fall in love with Judaism way more than I had been before. Today still, I don’t go to temple all the time, but I connect with Judaism

in my own way.

If you could give someone about to start the process advice, what would you say?

Look past the party, past the friends element. Really step back and think, ‘What does this mean to me?’ Connect with it on a spiritual level and try to get out of it what you can because you only get one chance.

If you were to give someone about to start the process advice, what would you say? Go slow. You’re never going to experience anything like it again. Take it in and live in the moment, because it’s so unique and it’s a really cool experience.

Alexa Sagel, 15, John Burroughs School Central Reform Congregation

Jason Weber, 25 Ladue Horton Watkins High School graduate Northwestern University graduate Congregation Shaare Emeth

BAR/BAT MITZVAH PARTY PLANNING GUIDE

If I knew now … , b’nai mitzvah edition

BY AMY FENSTER BROWN

When I play the “If I knew then what I know now” game, I have so, so many things I would do over. Realizing that my Barbie’s hair wouldn’t grow back after I cut it is definitely on the list.

When my editor, Queen Ellen Futterman, challenged me to the category “b’nai mitzvah” in this game, I knew two things: which photos I would include, and that I must crowdsource.

If I knew then what I know now, I would change … nothing.

With my older son Davis, we had the traditional bar mitzvah in 2019, filled with family and friends from near and far. His kiddush luncheon featured his favorite foods, festive decorations to match his theme (“Just Davis,” a play on Nike’s “Just Do It”) and a charming video montage of baby pictures and milestones.

The party was crazy fun and geared toward Davis’ interests: playing sports and games with his homeys. Comfortable in front a crowd, Davis read his Torah portion with confidence.

Thirteen months later, COVID brought life to a screeching halt just two weeks before my younger son Leo’s bar mitzvah. Placed on hold with no idea how long we’d be waiting, Leo was thrilled. Not one to enjoy being in the spotlight, Leo was

Columnist Amy Fenster Brown is married to Jeff and has two teenage sons, Davis and Leo. She volunteers for several Jewish not-forprofit 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.

relieved he didn’t have to stand up and speak in front of so many people, no matter how much he loves them.

About six months later,

ens of cars carrying his friends drove past the house, honking and cheering in a COVID Car Mitzvah Parade!

One year after that, we managed to cele

book the photographer you want the minute you get your date. Even if it’s three years away, you’ll rest easy knowing a key component of your epic weekend is taken

AMY FENSTER BROWN

Leo Brown with mom Amy Fenster Brown at Leo’s bar mitzvah.

PHOTO: VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY

Photos courtesy Festive Couture Floral and Zoe Life Photography

and all it means to us as Jews.

Your village celebrating your child’s achievement is just the icing on the cake.

Speaking of family and friends, I asked around to see what they would change if they knew then what they know now. Here’s what they told me:

I kind of enjoyed the low-key, bare-bones intimacy of the COVID mitzvah. Only immediate family in the synagogue. We wore socks instead of heels. The guest list was whittled down to our closest friends and family at our home to celebrate. Much less pressure and much less money. The focus was on what really mattered.” — Stacey vvv

I would not put as much emphasis on the party. I know we definitely took great care to make sure each of our girls felt like their voice was heard for the parties, and although one said she wanted a big event, I think we should have made it much more intimate for her. The parties should just be for the kids.”— Lisa vvv

While I didn’t think I needed a party planner, I wish I had hired someone on the day/night of the event as I spent a lot of time at both affairs troubleshooting things rather than enjoying my simcha. I also forgot to ask the photographer for a group shot of all the kids and wished I had it later.” — Marianne vvv

Don’t have a bar mitzvah in December. Ice storm. Enough said.” — Jamie vvv

As the host, two drink maximum. Maybe three. With food.” — Karyn vvv

I wouldn’t change a thing, other than not spending so much frickin’ money.” — Heidi vvv

And now, my last piece of advice you didn’t ask for.

Even if things go wrong or not as planned, or you don’t lose a pound, there will be more positives than negatives, the main one being that your child will be a b’nai mitzvah. All of their hard work and all of your Hebrew School carpool driving will be well worth it when the goal is achieved.

I wrote about Leo’s bar mitzvah here in the Light back in August 2020, and what I said then holds true now:

In finding that silver lining, seeing the positive in this mess of disappointment, it’s that the actual meaning of this Jewish rite of pas-

We Provide Loans and Promise Dignity

The St. Louis Jewish Loan Association offers an interest-free loan program to the Jewish community to help overcome temporary hardships that may have arisen unexpectedly. Loans are up to $5,000 payable over 36 months.

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‘General Needs’ interest-free loans can be used to cover unanticipated expenses including householdrelated, small business, debt consolidation, Jewish life events and much more.

For

information about the loan guidelines or any other questions, please contact us

St. Louis Jewish Loan Association is generously supported by the Jewish Federation of St. Louis and the Lubin-Green Foundation, a supporting foundation of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis

A member of

Above, Amy Fenster Brown and Jeff Brown with their children, Leo and Davis. At right, Davis Brown at his bar mitzvah with mom Amy Fenster Brown.

PHOTO: VIDEO GATE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY

St. Louis photographer Zach Dalin shared his images from the bar mitzvah of Rhett Adamovsky (shown at right and above).

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY sage is brought back into focus, the simplicity of the ritual without the chaos of everything that goes along with it.” — Amy

TRY MATCHING THESE B’NAI MITZVAH PICTURES OF PROMINENT JEWISH ST. LOUISANS (AND ONE FORMER ST. LOUISAN) TO THEIR PRESENT-DAY PHOTOS. HOW MANY DID YOU GET RIGHT?

ANDY COHEN BRAD HORWITZ BRIAN HERSTIG JORDAN PALMER RABBI AMY FEDER RABBI ANDREA GOLDSTEIN

ANDREA GOLDSTEIN RABBI JEFFREY ABRAHAM RABBI MICHAEL ROVINSKY

Bar & Bat Mitzvah PLANNING GUIDE

SQWIRES sqwires.com

Situated in historic Lafayette Square in a former wire factory building, SqWires is a preserved Victorian venue complete with 19th-century details & contemporary industrial-chic finishings. Owner Bethany Budde has been a resident of the area for years & strives to create new local food traditions through carefully curated menus. Our events team is dedicated to creating a simcha that expresses your son or daughter’s personal style while honoring the tradition of this special event.

(314) 865-3522

1415 S. 18TH ST. | ST. LOUIS | 63104

GALLANT FAMILY JUDAICA SHOP

CONGREGATION B’NAI AMOONA

bnaiamoona.com/judaicashop

Featuring a beautiful selection of both traditional and contemporary items: candlesticks, Havdalah sets, Kiddush cups, Challah boards and covers, Seder plates, Menorahs, Mezuzot, Tallit, jewelry, holiday items, and much more! Perfect for housewarming, baby, wedding, B’nai Mitzvah, and ritual gifts. NEW - Our artists! Showcasing unique Judaica works from local, national, and Israeli artists, including blown and fused glass, ceramics, wood and resin, paintings, prints, and more.

(314) 576-9990

324 S. MASON RD | ST. LOUIS | 63141

JCC

jccstl.com

The J’s facility rental offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your special events. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, or any celebration, our dedicated team ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience. 613 Catering by the J provides delectable cuisine and caters to all dietary preferences. Embracing tradition and excellence, we strive to create cherished memories that reflect the values and significance of your occasion. We make it happen!

(314) 432-5700 | 2 MILLSTONE CAMPUS DR. | ST. LOUIS | 63146

(314) 432-5700 | 16801 BAXTER RD. | CHESTERFIELD | 63005

KIRKWOOD POP CO.

kirkwoodpopco.com

What could be butter than popcorn for your next event? We are a family-owned business in the heart of downtown Kirkwood. We offer the best gourmet popcorn and pride ourselves on using authentic natural ingredients. Our popcorn is popped and packaged daily on site.  We carry 16 gourmet flavors and feature specialty flavors monthly. Kirkwood Pop Co. is the best place to grab a treat for yourself or a gift for someone else! Come in and see what’s poppin’!

(314) 287-6331

108 N. KIRKWOOD RD. | KIRKWOOD | 63122

JILLY’S

CUPCAKE BAR

jillyscupcakebar.com

We aim to make your Bar/Bat Mitzvah beautifully sweet! Our buttercream is smooth and light and made with absolutely ZERO shortening! You can trust that we only use the finest ingredients in our products with real butter and cream cheese. Our designers have perfected the art of decorating cakes and cupcakes! We’re able to match colors, designs, and themes in all of our products. We can make traditional tiered cakes or a tiered tower of cupcakes, it is completely up to you! We are here to make your big day as sweet as can be and exactly how you’ve imagined it!

(314) 993-5455

8509 DELMAR BLVD. | ST. LOUIS | 63124

CAKEWISH shopcakewish.com

CAKEWISH is a boutique located in Ladue that offers occasion dressing and gifts for the tween girl ages 6-16.  The opposite of ordinary, CAKEWISH celebrates the big and small occasions in life and make tween shopping a piece of cake!

(314) 313-5415

9218 CLAYTON RD | ST. LOUIS | 63124

STL STYLE HOUSE

stl-style.com

Based on Cherokee Street since 2010, STL-Style is the original St. Louis culture shop, offering a wide variety of local centric gifts and apparel items with a uniquely St. Louis schtick. In addition to our original St. Louis-inspired retail line, we offer a full range of custom design, screenprinting and promotional products for any occasion. Need some custom swag for your bar/bat mitzvah, wedding or high school reunion? We’ve got you covered! You can’t spell STYLE without STL!

(314) 898-0001

3159 CHEROKEE ST. | ST. LOUIS | 63118

THE SILVER LADY thesilver-lady.com

We creatively cater all your special events and can deliver Shiva Trays without delay. Your guests deserve the best food You deserve the best price

Celebrating 37 Years and with two locations, The Silver Lady is your go-to shop for Sterling Silver Jewelry and Rocks, Fossils & Minerals.

Everything is hand selected from artists all over the world to bring you unique and original jewelry! Come visit our experienced sales team and let us help you pick that special piece!

(314) 633-6910 212 N. KINGSHIGHWAY | ST. LOUIS | 63108

(314) 727-0704 6364 DELMAR BLVD. | ST. LOUIS | 63130

MITZVAH GIFT GUIDE

BY MY JEWISH LEARNING

Editor’s note: This article was originally published on myjewishlearning.com and is reprinted with permission.

Finding the right bar/bat mitzvah gift can be tricky.

For starters, there’s the gravity of the occasion: a once-in-a-lifetime rite of passage. Add to that, the recipient is 13, an age when a person’s interests and tastes are in flux and when anything an adult says or does can seem completely out-oftouch and uncool. Plus, we are often invited to this occasion not because we are close to the bar/bat mitzvah child and know his or her tastes, but because we are extended family or are friends of the child’s parents.

That’s why we’re here to help you find something that you feel good about and that the recipient actually likes. Best of all, everything on our list can be ordered online (although we also encourage you to check out your local Judaica shops — in St. Louis there Congregation B’nai Amoona and United Hebrew Congregation have them — and bookstores).

So read on — or, if you prefer, click directly on the categories below to skip the chatter and get straight to the gift ideas! Please keep in mind that prices fluctuate, so think of the prices we list as general guides and not guarantees. While our recommendations are mostly Jewish items (because that’s our area of expertise), it’s also perfectly appropriate to give gifts — such as jewelry, accessories, watches or anything related to the child’s hobbies or interests — that have nothing to do with Judaism or Israel.

Should you give money?

Cash is undoubtedly convenient for all involved and can be used for something the bar/bat mitzvah child wants right now or socked away into savings accounts. Checks are traditionally written out in $18 increments, marking the Hebrew letters for the word life (chai), which are numerically equivalent to 18. That said, no one will be offended if you give them a more rounded number, like $50 or $100 — or whatever you can comfortably afford.

You can also consider a gift card.

Meanwhile, Israel Bonds’ Mazel Tov Bonds and eMitzvah Bonds (www.israelbonds.com) support the Jewish state and can be redeemed in five years, when the bar/bat mitzvah is approaching college-age. We’ve also heard of giving Israeli currency, as a way to encourage the recipient to visit Israel at some point.

Judaica

Since many others also will opt to give Jewish ritual objects, we recommend sticking to items that are small and that you might want more than one of. Think Hanukkah menorah, Shabbat candlesticks or tzedakah (charity) box, rather than shofar or seder plate.

Shabbat Candlesticks

Some Shabbat candlesticks we like are these hand-painted wooden ones featuring a pomegranate design ($33, https://bit. ly/Shabbat-candlesticks1) or these nickel

ones engraved with the Hebrew blessing ($33, https://bit.ly/Shabbat-candlesticks2). These electric LED bulb candles ($14, https://bit.ly/electric-candlesticks) can be set to a timer, and are dorm-room-friendly.

• Award Winning Brisket

• House Made Cold & Hot Food Platters

• Shiva Trays

• Smoked Salmon Torte

Fair Trade Judaica (fairtradejudaica. org), which “promotes economic partnerships based on equality, justice and sustainable environmental practices,” has links to Shabbat candlesticks and a host of other Judaica.

Hanukkah menorahs

In particular, we recommend travel-size Hanukkah menorahs (also called Hannukiyot), which can be taken on trips and (the electric ones at least) used in dorm rooms when the bar/bat mitzvah child goes to college. There are fewer aesthetic options when you’re limited to electric menorahs, but most dorm fire codes forbid students from lighting actual candles in their rooms. The nice thing about menorahs (whether electric or traditional) is that even before the bar/bat mitzvah child leaves home, she or he can enjoy having his or her own to light on Hanukkah, when the more light the merrier.

You’ll find myriad options at a wide range of price points on Amazon and in local or online Judaica stores.

See GIFTS on page 13B

• Knishes

From 10-100, we’ve got your catering covered.

• Award Winning Brisket

• Blintzes

• House Made Cold & Hot Food Platters

• Shiva Trays

• Blintzes

• Flourless Chocolate Brownies

• Smoked Salmon Torte

• Knishes

• Flourless Chocolate Brownies

• Cheesecake

• Cheesecake

• Cheesecake

• Custom Desserts

• Custom Desserts

• Custom Desserts

...and of course, Cupcakes!

…and of course, Cupcakes!

…and of course, Cupcakes!

& Café

Jillys Cupcake Bar & Café

ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY

zachdalin.com

Zach Dalin Photography is an award-winning and published event photographer specializing in weddings, engagements, and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. Our photography style is cinematic, focusing on the use of light, architecture and movement to tell a story through artistic imagery. These beautiful, one-of-a-kind images are heirlooms for your family, and we preserve these memories through handcrafted albums, wall portraits and prints so you can treasure these moments for a lifetime.

(314) 941-6253

7128 PERSHING AVE | ST. LOUIS | 63130

LE MACARON FRENCH PASTRIES

lemacaron-us.com

Celebrate your Bar/Bat Mitzvah with our delicious and exquisite assortment of authentic French delicacies!  You will delight your guests and add a touch of elegance to your special day.  From delightful macarons to luscious eclairs, napoleon, merengues, fine chocolates, specialty cakes & tarts…… savor every moment with our delectable treats.  Add a macaron tower!  Experience the taste of France at Le Macaron  French Pastries of Saint Louis.  Mazel Tov!

(314) 395-6094

111 W LOCKWOOD AVE | WEBSTER GROVES 63119

KINGSIDE DINER

kingsidediner.com/private-events/

You’ll find comfort in Kingside’s tasteful event spaces: from small private rooms available for booking during business, to transforming the entire restaurant after-hours to accommodate your specific needs. Kingside’s culinary team has crafted a variety of menus to suit a wide range of tastes – leaving no palette unsatisfied. And with a full bar & coffee station, the beverage options are nearly endless!

(314) 454-3957

236 N EUCLID AVE | ST. LOUIS | 63108

(314) 230-9020

8025 BONHOMME AVE | CLAYTON | 63105

CYRANO’S CAFE

cyranos.com

The private room at Cyrano’s Cafe is a beautiful and unique space for your next event!  We can accommodate up to 50 people for a sit-down or buffet meal, and up to 70 people for a cocktail-style party.  Cyrano’s offers packages starting at $16 per person, along with a la carte appetizers and our famous, award-wining desserts!

Located in beautiful Webster Groves, we are centrally located and close to major highways.

(314) 963-3232

603 E LOCKWOOD AVE | WEBSTER GROVES | 63119

AMP UP ACTION PARK

ampupactionpark.com

Race + Play + Celebrate. We offer high energy fun for everyone! Enjoy European high-performance karts, an aerial ropes obstacle course, three-level laser tag and dozens of games. 50,000 sq.ft. facility includes Trackside Tavern and outdoor patio. Rent the full facility or private/semi-private space to host large and small events including bar/bat mitzvahs, birthdays, graduations, team building, lock-ins, reunions and more!

(314) 439-8008 13901 MANCHESTER RD. | TOWN & COUNTRY

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

doubletreechesterfield.com

Looking for a stylish and elegant venue to celebrate your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah? Look no further than the DoubleTree by Hilton Chesterfield. With flexible event spaces, outstanding catering options, and an experienced events team on hand to ensure that every detail is taken care of, we are the perfect choice for your family’s special

UNIQUE TREASURES

UNITED HEBREW CONGREGATION

unitedhebrew.org/about/gift-shop/

Looking for just the right present to mark a special occasion? Come browse the eclectic, carefully curated collection at Unique Treasures of United Hebrew Congregation. In our delightful shop, you will find gifts and books for all occasions, as well as ritual items for all holidays and life cycle events.

IRIS DEWOSKIN AT (314) 852-2440

13788 CONWAY RD. | ST. LOUIS | 63141

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CORPORATE GIFTS

Gifts: A few tips for picking the perfect bar/bat mitzvah present

Mezuzahs

A mezuzah is a small box that is placed on the right doorpost of Jewish homes and often also on the entryway to each room — so the bar/bat mitzvah child may want to affix one to his or her bedroom doorpost. Inside the box is a parchment scroll with verses from the Torah inscribed on it, including the Shema prayer (Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 11:13-21).

Tzedakah boxes

It’s traditional to put money into a tzedakah (charity) box each week before lighting the Shabbat candles, and some people like to collect these boxes.

Jewelry

The Jewish star, or Star of David, is a classic option in necklace pendants, and they’re widely available in silver, gold and other materials. In recent years, another symbol — the hamsa — has become increasingly popular in Israel and around the world. An eye embedded in a hand, the hamsa has Middle Eastern roots and is a sort-of good-luck charm. The word chai, Hebrew for life, also is a popular Jewish symbol for jewelry.

In addition, a search for Israeli jewelry on Etsy yielded many Israeli artisans (including ones that display at Tel Aviv’s popular twice-weekly Nahalat Binyamin market).

There are also Etsy stores here you can purchase other Israelimade items.

Torah Art

A particularly meaningful gift is artwork based on the bar or bat mitzvah’s Torah portion. Just make sure it is returnable, since you and the bar/bat mitzvah child might have different feelings about what will look good on his or her bedroom wall — and duplicates probably won’t be appreciated. Also make sure you are certain about the Torah portion the bar/bat mitzvah will be chanting — it does not always correspond with the date on which the ceremony falls. Michal Meron Studios (thestudioinvenice.com) creates colorful illustrated Torah portions that range from $79-$134, depending on size. Christina Mattison’s

Jewish books

Jewish humor

William Novak and Moshe Waldoks’ classic “Big Book of Jewish Humor” ($17) has long been a popular bar/bat mitzvah gift. A newer option, Michael Krasny’s “Let There Be Laughter:A Treasury of Great Jewish Humor and What It All Means” ($14) came out in fall of 2016 and boasts blurbs from such luminaries as documentary filmmaker Ken Burns and New Yorker humor writer Andy Borowitz.

Jewish Text Study

Drash Designs

(www.etsy.com/shop/drashdesigns) interpret the portion through a more abstract lens and range in price from $15-42 (unframed) with premium options and framing available at additional cost.

Charitable gifts

One of the core tenets of Judaism is tzedakah (charity). Making a donation in honor of the bar or bat mitzvah is a meaningful way to incorporate the Jewish (and universal) value of helping those in need. You can personalize this type of gift even further by donating to a cause about which the bar or bat mitzvah feels passionate. Better yet, give a “gift card” that can be used to fund a project of their choosing.

With a Kiva card (www.kiva.org/gifts/ kiva-cards), the bar or bat mitzvah can choose among thousands of projects helping people in developing countries and give them micro-loans. Similarly, Donors Choose (www.donorschoose.org/donors/ giftoptions.html) sells gift cards that enable recipients to support small teacher-run projects in public schools. A Jewish counterpart, The Tzedakah Network (www.jchoice.org), matches donors with a wide range of causes and mitzvah projects (fundraising/social justice efforts launched by kids as part of their bar/bat mitzvah preparation). Other options such as CharityChoice (www.charitygiftcertificates.org), JustGive.org and Israel Gives (www.israelgives.org) sell gift cards that can be redeemed to make donations to

Jeffrey Salkin’s “Text Messages: A Torah Commentary for Teens” ($17), which addresses such issues as tattoos, social justice and sexuality and gender issues, is another good option.

Jewish fiction

To introduce the bar/bat mitzvah child to today’s Jewish fiction writers, try “The New Diaspora: Changing Landscape of American Jewish Fiction” ($36), which offers a sampling from contemporary writers like Rebecca Goldstein, David Bezmogis and Jonathan Safran Foer. Alternately, expose your young reader to Latin American Jewish culture, with Ilan Stavans’ “Oy Caramba! An Anthology of Jewish Stories from Latin America” ($23). Or give them the classics with “Jewish American Literature: A Norton Anthology” ($43).

Jewish young-adult novels

There are also many good young-adult novels with Jewish themes and characters. Some we recommend (especially for girls) are:

• “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” (Rachel Cohn and David Levithan), about a Jewish teen who, before she leaves for a year on kibbutz in Israel, connects with a non-Jewish boy on what Tablet’s Margorie Ingall describes as an “epic urban whirlwind marathon date.” ($8)

• “Intentions” (Deborah Heiligman), a 2013 winner of the Sydney Taylor Award

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

THE RITZ CARLTON ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/stlrzthe-ritz-carlton-st-louis/events/

Create memories that last a lifetime at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. Offering a variety of event spaces to accommodate your vision in the heart of Clayton, The Forbes Four Star hotel promises an exceptional affair with attention to every detail and unparalleled service. From an elegant soiree to stylish social occasions, our Events team will ensure your planning is seamless and stress-free ensuring your special simcha is a celebration to remember.

(314) 863-6300 100 CARONDELET PLAZA | ST. LOUIS | 63105

BAR/BAT MITZVAH PARTY PLANNING GUIDE

GOOEY LOUIE

GOOEY BUTTER CAKES gooeybuttercake.com

Give your guests a Taste of St. Louis. Gooey Louie - St Louis’ award-winning gooey butter cake - has been a tradition for hometown special occasions for the past 17 years. Make the party special with delicious custom event favors, tailored to your Bar or Bat Mitzvah theme. Come to the store and build a St. Louis bag filled with many treats from local area businesses. Or, build a gooey grazing table filled with a variety of gooey butter cake cakes and cookies. Featured on the Food Network, The Today Show and Martha Stewart Living to name a few.

(314) 941-6253

11266 OLIVE BLVD | CREVE COEUR | 63141

VIDEO GATE STUDIO

PHOTOGRAPHY

videogatestudio.com

Video Gate Studio Photography is an award-winning and innovative studio located in the heart of Creve Coeur. Specializing in Mitzvahs, Weddings, and Family Portraits, we pride ourselves on capturing life’s most cherished moments with a perfect blend of sophisticated flash lighting and the gentle nuances of natural light. As one of St. Louis’s most trusted photography studios, all events are personally photographed by the owners themselves, ensuring an exceptional and personalized experience for each client.

(314) 994-9018 PHOTOGRAPHY@VIDEOGATESTUDIO.COM

HOTBOX COOKIES

hotboxcookies.com

Hot Box Cookies is the Midwest’s premiere cookie and gift delivery company. Our mission is to make the world a happier place one cookie at a time by creating smiles and memories with high-quality, fresh-baked, all-natural, gourmet cookies. We also offer cookie cakes, ice cream and icing sandwiches, ice cream by the pint, cookie dough, and beverages that pair perfectly with cookies.

LOCATIONS:

CWE | S. GRAND | CLAYTON | KIRKWOOD | CREVE COEUR | LAWRENCE, KS | COLUMBIA, MO

L PHOTOGRAPHIE

PHOTOGRAPHER + STUDIO COORDINATOR

lphotographie.com

Meredith has been photographing mitzvahs with L Photographie since 2015. She loves being a part of these amazing family celebrations and getting to photograph the results of so much hard work and preparation. Her goal is to capture the moments big and small, so that each family can enjoy the day and be present through it all. Working with teens at this milestone is an honor, and a lot of fun!

MEREDITH MARQUARDT : (314) 449-8124

449 N. EUCLID AVE. | ST. LOUIS | 63108

THE SHELDON

thesheldon.org

The special event of your dreams. A corporate event that feels like anything but. No matter the occasion, The Sheldon’s event spaces are designed to inspire. Located in the Grand Center arts district, The Sheldon combines historic grandeur with contemporary event planning for parties from 50 – 500. Perfect for wedding receptions, bar and bat mitzvahs, anniversary parties and more, The Sheldon promises a perfect event from start to finish, and everything in between.

(314) 533-9900

3648 WASHINGTON BLVD. | ST. LOUIS | 63108

CHAMPIONSHIP CATERING

championshipcatering.com

Ranked as a Top 10 Caterer by St. Louis Business Journal, Larry Gerstein’s Championship Catering cooks up mouthwatering, delicious food for all your family and business events. We Love Food! And, we love catering your Bat/Bar Mitzvahs, Weddings, Holiday Parties, and more. We cater the Cardinals, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater, and nearly 100 top venues in St. Louis. Call Chef LarryG!

(314) 606-9520

2249 WOODSON RD. | ST. LOUIS | 63114

BREADSMITH

breadsmith.com/st-louis

At Breadsmith we make Artisan bread, from scratch, shaped by hand then baked on a stone hearth French-made oven. We use the finest ingredients to insure quality for you and your family. Breadsmith is a fun place to visit for free samples and friendly associates. Breadsmith is owned and operated by the Johnson Family since 1998. Our bakery is certified Kosher Pareve and Pas Yisroel. Our goal is to serve you. Visit soon and often.

(314) 822-8200

10031 MANCHESTER RD. | KIRKWOOD | 63122

BAR/BAT MITZVAH PARTY PLANNING GUIDE

Camp Sabra: The perfect backdrop for summer bar/bat mitzvahs

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surroundings and why it is a perfect place for some kids to have their b’nai mitzvah, including her daughter Kylie. She became a bat mitzvah at Sabra in 2021.

“We have one or two bar or bat mitzvahs at camp each summer,” Sloan said. “We don’t really advertise it, but families reach out to us and ask if it’s something that’s possible. For some children — soon to be Jewish adults — this is their happy place, and the people they want to have surrounding them when they become a bar or bat mitzvah. And I think that’s really amazing.”

Sloan says what also makes a camp b’nai mitzvah unique is how the service can be individually designed.

“It’s something we love doing,” Sloan said, “and, really, the sky’s the limit, meaning the camper is asked what prayers would you like to lead, would you like to lead the Shema, would you like to do your Torah portion in English, do you want to give a speech, would you like your parents

to have a speech? The sky’s the limit, and we cater to each camper who does this.”

Sabra isn’t the only overnight summer camp that welcomes b’nai mitzvahs while camp is going on. Several others popular with St. Louis Jewish kids also allow these ceremonies, including ones that aren’t Jewish per se.

Dan Grabel is co-owner of Camp Manitowa in Benton, Ill., which has campers of various religious backgrounds. He says that over the years, several campers have had their b’nai mitzvah at Manitowa during camp sessions because of how special the camp experience is to them.

Aaron Hadley, director of Camp Ben Frankel in Makanda, Ill. by Rend Lake and the Shawnee National Forest, echoes similar sentiments, adding that a summer rarely goes by without one or two campers becoming a b’nai mitzvah.

“We were founded in 1949 as a camp to help boys train for their bar mitzvah,” said Hadley, explaining that Ben Frankel is now open to youngsters of all genders and is affiliated with Jewish Federation of Southern Illinois.

“We have a lot of kids from tiny Jewish communities and to them, camp is their Jewish com-

munity, so they choose to have (their b’nai mitzvah) here.”

None of these camps that allow b’nai mitzvahs charge extra for them. Even better, often the camp photographer will capture the event, and families can arrange for pictures.

After Orel’s bar mitzvah at Sabra, he and his family enjoyed lunch at a nearby restaurant. Later that day, he and his camp friends were treated to a dessert party, courtesy of Orel’s moms.

“What stands out was how stress-free this all was, as well as how special, for Orel, for Dani, for me, for our family,” Cohen said. “Honestly, my biggest concern was finding clothes nice enough for the occasion but also appropriate for walking around camp.”

Far

1. Rick Recht

2. Rabbi

Feder

3. Jordan Palmer

4. Rabbi Randy

Fleisher

5. Rabbi Jeffrey

Abraham

6. Raquel Scharf Anderson

7. Brian Herstig

8. Andy Cohen

9. Brad Horwitz

10. Rabbi Michael Rovinsky

11. Rabbi Andrea Goldstein

Top: Orel Cohen is flanked by his two moms, Dani Lizenby, at left, and Ocean Cohen.

left: Orel Cohen gently positions his tallit over his head during his bar mitzvah service at Camp Sabra this summer.

Amy

The Canopy. For Intimate Gatherings.

From engagement parties and weddings to very special B’nai Mitzvah celebrations, you can rely on DoubleTree Chesterfield to create a most memorable and rewarding experience. Whether a ballroom setting, a poolside soir è e, or our all new indoor/outdoor Canopy Event Space with openable window walls and outdoor patio, you’ll find DoubleTree Chesterfield the perfect venue to gather with family and friends.

From engagement parties and weddings to very special B’nai Mitzvah celebrations, you can rely on DoubleTree Chesterfield to create a most memorable and rewarding experience, whether a ballroom setting, a poolside soir è e, or our all new Canopy Event Space with floor to ceiling windows and outdoor patio with full catering services. BOOK AN INTIMATE GATHERING IN OUR NEW

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