Jewish Light Digital Edition: Jan. 10, 2024

Bicyclists invited to join global ride supporting hostages See page 2

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

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JA N UA RY 10, 2024

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STL students cope with antisemitism on campus as Gaza war rages on

BY MOLLY LEVINE SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

The Fox Theatre brings ‘Funny Girl’ to St. Louis Jan. 23-Feb. 4.

PHOTO: MATTHEW MURPHY

2024 winter

BY PATRICIA CORRIGAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

S

o what if Jack Frost is nipping at your nose — throw on a warm scarf and head out to take advantage of the many opportunities to engage with the cultural arts this winter.

One of these nights (Feb. 6), the Eagles are coming to town, and National Public Radio’s Peter Sagal has booked an evening here on March 15. As always, the St. Louis Symphony will offer numerous stellar performances, including a con-

cert on May 3 with cellist Yo-Yo Ma. For five days in May, Jazz St. Louis will present the Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet in “A Tribute to Lionel Hampton.”

That fabulous homage to Fanny Brice (aka “Funny Girl”) is coming to a stage near you, as are operas galore, a gymnastic version of “Moby Dick” and the latest interpretation of “Company” by Stephen Sondheim.

“Matisse and the Sea” will be on display at the St. Louis Art Museum, which also will present “Art in Bloom,” a seasonal favorite. And if blooming orchids are your thing, check out the annual

THE 2024 WINTER ARTS GUIDE IS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF:

show at the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Popular vocalists and musicians — including Tim McGraw and Denise Thimes — are just waiting to entertain you at numerous venues over the next few months. And you can treat the kids or grandkids to a show featuring adorable Daniel Tiger and his friends or choose from two opportunities to be in the presence of Disney heroes and princesses, some of them on ice skates.

Our listings begin with some holdover events from 2023 and stretch into the first month of spring so you can look forward to an outdoor art fair. Then we provide a heads-up for just a few events over Memorial Day Weekend, so you can get your tickets in advance. Enjoy!

An ocean away from the atrocities occurring in Gaza, college campuses across the United States act as a hotspot for debate, protest and to many Jewish students’ dismay, antisemitism.

After the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, outrage and concern spread throughout the globe. With this came several forms of advocacy, such as rallies and demonstrations, many of which have occurred on college campuses. While some remained peaceful, others did not, tainting campus environments with antisemitism.

Noah Kleinlehrer, a sophomore at George Washington University and a member of Temple Emanuel, has noticed pockets of antisemitism on his college campus.

“It’s almost as if there is an underlying tone of antisemitism,” he said. “It’s these small instances that promote this terrible, destructive vibe on campus that is very hateful toward Jews.”

On Oct. 24, as Kleinlehrer walked through campus, he witnessed antisemitic messages being projected onto the See CAMPUS on page 5

JANUARY Brothers Lazaroff continue their January residency on Tuesday evenings (Jan.16, 23, 30) to support Joe’s Café, a neighborhood listening room at 6014 Kingsbury Ave. The “Bros for Joe’s” series features an 80-minContinued on page 14

Noah Kleinlehrer is a sophomore at George Washington University.

January 10, 2024

Page 2

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PUBLISHER'S STATEMENT The ST. LOUIS JEWISH LIGHT (ISSN 00362964) is published bimonthly by the St. Louis Jewish Light, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation, 7201 Delmar Blvd. Suite 201, St. Louis, MO 63130. Periodical postage paid at St. Louis, MO. Copyright 2024. Postmaster: Send address changes to the St. Louis Jewish Light: 7201 Delmar Blvd. #201, St. Louis, MO 63130.

OFFICERS Michael Staenberg, President Bethe Growe, Immediate Past President Kara Newmark, Vice President Ryan Rich, Vice President Justin Krachmalnick, Treasurer Todd Taylor, Secretary DIRECTORS Caroline Goldenberg, Mia Kweskin, Debbie Lefton, Steve Rosenzweig and Adam Schneider JEWISH LIGHT PAST PRESIDENTS Bernard Fischlowitz*, Milton I. Goldstein*, Morris Pearlmutter* (founder), Morris Moscowitz*, Melvin Newmark*, Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin*, Vivian Zwick*, Joseph Edlin*, Michael Newmark, Richard Stein, Yusef Hakimian*, Sanford Weiss*, Philip Isserman*, Linda Kraus, Richard Flom, Marvin Schneider, Barbara Langsam Shuman, Terry Bloomberg, John Greenberg, David Grebler*, Milton Movitz*, Gianna Jacobson, Jenny Wolkowitz, Gary Kodner, Jane Tzinberg Rubin, Steve Gallant, Laura K. Silver, Bethe Growe

St. Louis event will spotlight ‘Women Defending Israel’

BY BILL MOTCHAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

From its inception in 1948, women have served in the Israel Defense Forces. Since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, the IDF has reported a significant increase in women requesting combat positions. The role of women in defense of Israel is the subject of an upcoming program hosted by Congregation B’nai Amoona and Shaving Israel.

The event, at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 21, will honor the memory of Carol Hellman, a longtime B’nai Amoona member and co-founder of Shaving Israel, the St. Louisbased organization that donates towels, winter wear, shirts, socks, phone chargers, toiletries and other personal items to IDF soldiers.

Shaving Israel Board President Laura Goldmeier said the program’s goal is awareness.

“One of our purposes in Shaving Israel is to raise money to buy non-military support equipment for the IDF,” Goldmeier said. “The other purpose that we have is

education.”

The January program will feature the following speakers: • Rachel Miller, co-founder of Shaving Israel and Rachel Taxman, daughter of co-founder Carol Hellman, who was also a volunteer for Sar-El, a global organization of volunteers supporting the IDF. • Devy Goldenberg, who will describe her mother’s experience serving in the Haganah, the predecessor to the IDF. • Dodi Taylor (daughter of Rabbi Ze’ev Smason), who will explain the role of Sherut Leumi, the national service option for women as an alternative to IDF service.

• Rani Greenwald, who will talk about her experience in the IDF Canine Unit.

There is no charge for the event, and light refreshments will be served.

Registration is required and is available at www.bnaiamoona.com/form/24shaving.

If you are unable to attend the “Women Defending Israel” event but would like to support Shaving Israel, donations can be made at shavingisrael.org.

* Of Blessed Memory

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

EXECUTIVE Ellen Futterman, Editor-in-Chief Stacy Wolff Smart, Chief of Revenue Growth and Community Engagement Jordan Palmer, Chief Digital Content Officer

• Jan. 24 • Feb. 7 • Feb. 21 • March 6 • March 20 • April 3 • April 17 • May 1

• May 22 • June 5 • June 19 • July 10 • July 24 • Aug. 7 • Aug. 21 • Sept. 11

• Sept. 25 • Oct. 9 • Oct. 23 • Nov. 6 • Nov. 20 • Dec. 4 • Dec. 18

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EDITORIAL Robert A. Cohn, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Mike Sherwin, Managing Editor SALES Angie Rosenberg, Senior Account Executive Kelly Morris, Account Executive Elaine Wernick, Account Executive BUSINESS & ENGAGEMENT Terri Green, Administrative Assistant CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bill Motchan, Amy Fenster Brown, Patricia Corrigan, Barry Gilbert, Margi Lenga Kahn, Nancy Kranzberg, Elise Krug, Cate Marquis, Eric Mink, Judith Newmark, Martin Rochester, Megan Rubenstein

Galit Lev-Harir

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STL bicyclists invited to join global ride supporting hostages

BY BILL MOTCHAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES

Shabbat begins Friday, Jan. 12: 4:43 p.m.

Shabbat ends Saturday, Jan. 13: 5:45 p.m.

Torah reading: Va’eira Shabbat begins Friday, Jan. 19: 4:50 p.m.

Shabbat ends Saturday, Dec. 20: 5:51 p.m.

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Bicyclists around the world will take to roads and bike paths on Jan. 14 to mark the 100th day since the Hamas attack on Israel last October. The event was created by the professional cycling team Israel Premier Tech, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum and the Israeli Cycling Federation.

Participants will tie a yellow ribbon on the front of their bikes as a sign of identification and to support the hostages and their families, and to share their journey on social media using the hashtag #RidetoBringThemHomeNow. In St. Louis, the St. Louis Area Mountain Bikers will gather to support the effort at noon at the Bike Stop Café at 701 S. Riverside Drive in St Charles. The longrange weather forecast calls for a high of 26° on Jan. 14, so if you plan to ride, dress appropriately, suggests Galit Lev-Harir, an avid mountain biker.

“I wear a balaclava, a Merino wool under-

layer shirt, a Merino wool bra and Merino wool leggings,” Lev-Harir said. “I also have a warm cycling jacket that is effective against wind. I wear battery operated heated socks, too. If you don’t have specific winter cycling shoes, then hiking boots are a good option. For my hands, I have handlebar mitts. If you don’t have those, then ski gloves will work.”

Tens of thousands of bike riders are expected to take part in solidarity rides around the world to support Israel and the hostages. Those will include an event at the Velodrome in Tel Aviv and cycling events in Barcelona, Paris, London, Melbourne and Los Angeles.

Chris Froome, a four-time Tour de France winner, has joined the campaign and called on his fans and the global cycling community to join in. Froome is a member of Team Israel Start-Up Nation, Israel’s first professional cycling team.

Learn more about the local event on the St. Louis Area Mountain Bikers Facebook page (https://bit.ly/SLAMB-event).

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January 10, 2024

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Sports, Judaism and inspiration converge for local teens at Pan American Maccabi games As the war following Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks on Israel continues in Gaza, now nearing 100 days, it felt good — like a much-needed respite — to talk about Jewish pride and competition with three young Jewish St. Louisans upon their return from the Pan American Maccabi Games. They took place in Buenos Aires, Argentina from Dec. 27 to Jan. 5.

Josh Horwitz, 23, served as the assistant coach of the USA men’s 18 and under basketball team. Both Sammy Goldstein, 15, and Peyton O’Shaughnessy, 16, played for the USA boy’s and USA girl’s, 16 and under soccer teams, respectively. Josh graduated from Ladue Horton Watkins High School, where he played varsity basketball, while Sammy, a freshman and Peyton, a junior, currently attend Ladue.

All three gave the games – and the experience they had in Buenos Aires – exceptionally high marks. More than 4,000 athletes representing 22 nations participated, including Israel, which sent a smaller delegation than originally intended because of the Oct. 7 attacks.

“I had heard amazing things about these games,” said Josh, whose family belongs to Kol Rinah. “It was the perfect opportunity for me because it connects two things I love, basketball and Judaism.”

Josh, who graduated from Washington University with a degree in finance in 2022, now lives in Manhattan, where he recently became program director for a New York City nonprofit youth basketball organization, KING Hoops NYC, which draws participants from all five boroughs.

He had played basketball in the Maccabi Games in Milwaukee in 2015 and again in St. Louis, when our Jewish Community Center hosted them in 2016. Those were great fun, he said, but the chance to be part of Maccabi Games abroad thoroughly appealed to him, especially after hearing how awesome that experience was from his younger brother, Ari. He played on the USA men’s 18 and under basketball team in Budapest, Hungary, as part of the European Maccabi Games in 2019.

So Josh applied to be a coach, interviewed

Above, Sammy Goldstein, left, and Josh Horwitz, at the Pan American Maccabi Games in Buenos Aires.

At left, Peyton O’Shaughnessy and Sammy at Maccabi. for the position and was selected. Both Sammy, whose family belongs to Congregation Temple Israel, and Peyton, who plays varsity girls’ soccer at Ladue, said they made their teams after applying and sending film detailing their soccer abilities.

“The whole experience really was a 10 out of 10 for me,” said Sammy, who plays soccer for the St. Louis Academy Team, which is affiliated with St. Louis City SC. “I’ve never really been in an environment where there were so many Jewish people. I thought it was so cool to meet people who were Jewish, even though they all didn’t speak the same language as me, and play soccer with people I never met before.”

Peyton also talked about the camaraderie that organically transpired among her and her teammates, none of whom she knew beforehand.

“That was the best part for me, getting to know the other girls on my team,” she said. “I came away with 18 new best friends from all around the country.”

Connecting with her Judaism also was a bonus. Peyton explained that she didn’t go to Hebrew school or have a bat mitzvah and her family does not belong to a synagogue, but her maternal side is Jewish.

“I kind of grew up going to High Holiday services with my grandpa. (Maccabi) allowed me to better connect with him and what he knew growing up,” she said, adding that her mother had participated in the Maccabi Games in soccer when she was a teenager.

Of course, traveling to, and staying 11 days in Buenos Aires, is not exactly cheap, which is why the athletes, including Sammy and Peyton, worked to raise the $6,650 needed to cover expenses while Josh, as was the case with most coaches, raised the requisite $3,000. Thankfully, they said, family and friends were a great help, and generous.

As for other highlights, all three mentioned opening ceremonies, when newly elected Argentine President Javier Milei addressed the crowd of more than 10,000 (including Josh’s parents, Rabbi Brad and Mindy Horwitz, and brothers Ari a nd Ben).

According to several news reports, Milei, who is not Jewish,

vowed his commitment to Israel and the Jewish people in their fight against Hamas. He is known to study Torah and has spoken publicly about his intention to convert to Judaism.

Also in attendance was Israeli Romina Schvalb from Kibbutz Nir Oz, whose brother-in-law, Ruben Engel, was killed in the Hamas attacks. She offered a prayer in memory of those who had been killed on Oct. 7 and for the hostages who remain in custody.

Unfortunately, the timing of the games was not without drama. On Dec. 30, Argentine police arrested three men in the Buenos Aires area on suspicion of planning a terror attack, though it was unclear whether they were targeting the Jewish athletes. The men were of Syrian and Lebanese descent, and had hotel reservations nearby the Israeli embassy, which was the site of a 1992 bombing that killed 29 people.

In separate conversations with Josh, Sammy and Peyton, each spoke more about new friendships and experiencing the sights, sounds and food of Argentina than the actual competition.

“My favorite part was bonding with our players and the coaching staff,” said Josh.

“We were by each other’s hips the entire time. When we weren’t practicing or playing games, we were eating together, we were seeing Buenos Aires, walking around. The highlight was being together and celebrating each other and our Jewish identity.”

But the goal of the Maccabi Games is, after all, victory. And to that end, mission accomplished. Josh’s basketball team and Peyton’s soccer team each took home the gold while Sammy’s soccer team nabbed the silver.

Regardless of the outcome though, they were all winners.

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A NIGHT OF UNITY FEATURING

Alon Ben Gurion

Grandson of David Ben-Gurion

Thursday, January 25, 2024 • 6:00 pm Frontenac, St. Louis • Address Provided Upon Registration Kim R. Levy, Executive Director, Midwest klevy@jnf.org • 847.656.8880 x763

REGISTER AT JNF.ORG/UNITYSTL

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

JOIN US IN SOLIDARITY FOR THIS SPECIAL EVENT

Page 4

LOCAL NEWS

January 10, 2024

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Since Oct. 7, need for grief groups is growing.

B’nai Amoona is starting one here in St. Louis

BY JORDAN PALMER CHIEF DIGITAL CONTENT OFFICER

For decades, Jewish organizations have offered counseling to help their communities cope with grief, traditionally focusing on the loss of loved ones. However, since Oct. 7, many in the Jewish world have experienced a profound new form of suffering, finding themselves immersed in a toxic cloud of horror, trauma, grief, disbelief, anger, fear and a sense of abandonment.

This new reality has created a need to address various types of grief. Jewish organizations and synagogues, including those in St. Louis, are now working to provide innovative ways for their commu-

nities to navigate these challenges. Later this month, Congregation B’nai Amoona will host a new grief group, “Holding Space for Your Heart,” open to everyone.

“The primary goal is to hold space for those who need comfort and support. We are not trying to be therapy or an answer.

We know that there are no answers to how to escape the pain,” said Liessa Alperin, director of congregational life and engagement at B’nai Amoona. “We also recognize that grief is a process that people go through. There is no quick way through or around it. This is more about supporting, caring, sharing, listening, and providing a place to be understood.”

Grief groups come in various formats— open, closed, or focused on specific types

of loss. The “Holding Space for Your Heart” group will follow the open format.

“Each time we meet, we will begin with introductions, share the group’s covenant emphasizing respect, kindness and confidentiality, and then the time together will evolve based on the needs of those present that day,” Alperin said.

Upcoming dates for ‘Holding Space for Your Heart’ group include: • Jan. 27 (after Kiddush) and Jan. 28 (10 a.m.)

• Feb. 24 (after Kiddush) and Feb. 25 at 10 a.m.

• March 30 (after Kiddush) and March 31 (at 10 a.m.)

• April 27 (after Kiddush) and April 28 at 10 a.m.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS

SCHOLARSHIPS

Apply by April 5 at

https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/6505 THE LENTIN SCHOLARSHIP FUND Established by Scott Lentin

Provides scholarships of up to $10,000 to high school seniors who have completed secondary school and who are enrolling in full-time undergraduate degree programs or vocational programs at accredited nonprofit colleges or universities. Preference will be given to applicants of any faith with some connection to the Jewish community and first-generation college students.

THE BENJAMIN D. & MIRIAM PESSIN EDUCATION ASSISTANCE FUND

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 L. ALLEN ZORENSKY FINE ARTS LOAN FUND

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

Awards interest-free loans to students pursuing an education in fine arts or other arts at a post-secondary level at a recognized accredited academic institution. Loan recipients must sign a promissory note in which the recipient agrees to repay the loan, in full, within five years of graduation.

THE RUTH GREENBERG MEMORIAL FUND FOR RABBINICAL TRAINING

The following scholarships will not be available until 2025.

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

THE LOEB FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FUND

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

Established by the late Ruth Greenberg

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 no less than 10 years.

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 area college or university students demonstrating scholastic achievement and financial need.

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 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.

Awardees will be notified no later than April 29, 2024.

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

Alon Ben-Gurion is the grandson of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion.

Jan. 25 talk to feature grandson of David Ben-Gurion This Tu B’Shevat, on Thursday, Jan. 25 at 6 p.m., Jewish National Fund-USA will host “A Night of Unity” in St. Louis, where community members can gather in solidarity with Israel.

The event, co-chaired by Rabbi Jeffrey and Lauren Abraham, Traci Goldstein, and Jenny and Rich Wolkowitz, will feature keynote speaker Alon Ben-Gurion, the grandson of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion. Alon will discuss his grandfather’s vision for Israel, and his analysis of the Oct. 7 attacks, particularly how it parallels the Yom Kippur War 50 years ago.

Local lay leaders will also discuss Jewish National Fund-USA’s Israel Resilience Campaign (jnf.org/supportisrael), which is supporting Israelis impacted by the war in the short and long term. The organization evacuated and relocated tens of thousands of residents in southern Israel, providing housing, food, clothing, as well as firefighting and protective equipment for civil defense, and education, activities for children and therapy for trauma.

“Alon Ben Gurion weaves important stories that bridge rich, historical tales from pre-state Israel to a hopeful future for the people,” said Event Co-chair Jenny Wolkowitz in a statement. “He also possesses a deep understanding of Jewish National Fund-USA’s past, present, and future impact throughout the land and people of Israel.”

In addition, longtime philanthropists Gloria Feldman and Leslie Lewis will be recognized with the organization’s World Chairman’s Council and Century Council Awards, respectively, for their dedication to Jewish National Fund-USA and the land and people of Israel.

“Our support for Israel is more important now than ever before,” Event Co-chair Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham said in a statement.

“Jewish National Fund-USA has been doing incredible work for many years to help grow Israel in a variety of different ways. The organization’s work today is more imperative than ever. I am excited to hear from Alon Ben-Gurion and to share all of our important initiatives we have right now.”

For more information about Jewish National Fund-USA or to register for the event, visit www.jnf.org/UnitySTL or contact Kim R. Levy, Executive Director, Midwest at klevy@jnf.org or 847-656-8880 x763.

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Page 5

Campus: Jewish college students from St. Louis discuss antisemitism From left to right: Rylie Fine, Jordan Eisen and Alexis Baumgarten

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Gelman Library. Phrases such as “Glory to Our Martyrs” and “Free Palestine From the River to the Sea” were displayed in large white letters across the side of the building.

“That was the first time I felt scared,” he said. “I was taken aback. Seeing that was quite frightening.”

Kleinlehrer was not alone in this feeling.

Other Jewish college students from St. Louis also voiced concern about antisemitic backlash on their campuses.

“So many different students, along with myself, [are] not feeling quite as safe as we did the first day we stepped on campus,” said Rylie Fine, a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a member of Congregation B’nai Amoona.

Fine said that since arriving in September, a handful of antisemitic occurrences have plagued the UW-Madison campus. She said one instance took place inside the UW Hillel, where two students entered the building during a Hanukkah celebration, shouted political slogans and obscenities and were then removed.

Another instance involved a neo-Nazi group that marched from areas near campus to the state Capitol while waving swastika flags and chanting Nazi propaganda.

“I think a lot of Jews have felt less safe walking around campus because of people that were marching down our street,” Fine said. “I think at that point it starts to become a safety issue.”

For Jewish college students on the West Coast, safety has also been a major concern. Alexis Baumgarten, a junior at Oregon State and a member of United Hebrew Congregation, has taken measures to ensure her well-being on campus.

“I feel like as long as my Jewish identity remains quiet on campus, I feel safe,” she said.

Baumgarten has deleted all social media posts referring to her religious background, including photos of her 2019 trip to Israel and her NFTY youth group.

As a result of these actions, Baumgarten said, she has been able to avoid antisemitic remarks and comments from peers. But she also said that there is such a small Jewish population at her school, antisemitism isn’t on most students’ radar.

“I think [the lack of antisemitism] is because there are so few Jewish voices on

our campus that there is not enough to safe while on campus. Similar to have a group to speak out [against Jews],” Northwestern University, many Jewish she said. students at UPenn have found comfort in While some Jewish college students the university’s large Jewish community. worry about their safety, others do not “Have I ever felt explicitly unsafe on share that concern. campus? I wouldn’t say so just because Although Jordan Eisen, a sophomore at there’s enough community here,” Canis Northwestern University in suburban said. “Penn has had a strong Jewish comChicago and a member of Congregation munity forever. It’s notoriously Jewish in a Shaare Emeth, has noticed antisemitism very positive way.” on campus, he has felt safe living and Even though Canis has not experienced learning among many other Jewish individuals. “[Northwestern] has a pretty vibrant Jewish community,” Eisen said.

“There are Jews everywhere at Northwestern.”

Even with such a lively Jewish community, antisemitism has appeared on Northwestern’s campus. After a group on campus printed fake copies of The Daily Northwestern, Eisen, along with many other students, became frustrated. Printed on the front page was a QR code linking to a website criticizing Israel. From classrooms to dormitories, copies were found scattered across campus.

“I was upset about it but not really fearful or anything,” Eisen said. “I agree with taking it too far, but I don’t think it was harmful to my mental well-being.”

Like Eisen, Evan Canis, a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and member of Congregation B’nai Amoona, has felt Evan Canis

antisemitism on campus, he has witnessed an overall lack of support for Jewish students by former UPenn President Liz Magill. When asked during a congressional hearing whether students who “called for the genocide of Jews” should face punishment, Magill avoided a direct answer.

“It’s obviously very disappointing,” Canis said. “You would hope your entire university would be supportive [of Jewish students].”

As a result of the hearing, Magill resigned in December. Canis hopes the next campus leader will be more empathetic when it comes to the university’s Jewish students.

“I’m at least hoping that, going forward, we’ll have a president who will try to make an environment where everyone feels safe and supported,” Canis said.

For the time being, however, many Jewish students have come together to raise support for Israel by organizing fundraisers and attending vigils.

“It kind of sounds like an oxymoron, but I have felt a stronger sense of pride in my Jewish community since these events have happened,” Fine said. “As these awful things are happening, I feel like it’s pushing us to grow stronger … and I think that’s a really special thing.”

Molly Levine graduated from Marquette High School and attends United Hebrew Congregation. She is a freshman at the University of Missouri.

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JEWISH LIGHT

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BROUGHT TO YOU THIS MONTH BY:

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.

Zoe Wolkowitz Brannon joined Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP as an associate attorney in the business and commercial disputes practice group. Her practice primarily focuses on general and complex commercial litigation across a variety of industries.

Corey Waldman was promoted to vice president of business development at Essex Industries. According to the company, the promotion is a testament to Waldman’s leadership skills, dedication to his customers, and his ability to inspire teams to achieve and exceed objectives. He is a member of Congregation Shaare Emeth.

Former St. Louisan David Zafft is the new chief financial officer at Organics Holdings Management, LLC, a leading horticultural supply company specializing in premium quality potting media and soil amendments for Florida’s horticulture, agriculture and turf grass industries. Zafft is responsible for the accounting and finance as well as cash management. He currently resides in Atlanta.

Judi Schneiderman was honored as one of Parkway School District’s Teacher of the Year. She is a fourth-grade teacher at Green Trails Elementary School and has

Above, Michael Karasick (left) receives the Citizen of the Year award from Creve Coeur Mayor Dr. Robert Hoffman.

Top row, from left: Zoe Wolkowitz Brannon, Corey Waldman and David Zafft.

Second row: Judi Schneiderman, Ben Poremba and Suzy Weber. been there for 23 years.

Ben Poremba has closed his longtime

Botanical Heights restaurants Elaia, Olio and Nixta and will reopen them in the Delmar Maker District, located along

Delmar Boulevard between North Kingshighway and Union boulevards later in 2024. He will also open two new concepts, Florentin and Esca. Florentin, named for Poremba’s favorite neighborhood in Tel Aviv and described as an anytime kind of place, will be open for breakfast, lunch and early dinner, with both sit-down and countContinued on opposite page

INVEST IN YOURSELF AT THE J! TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: CHESTERFIELD & CREVE COEUR

SCAN OR CALL 314.432.5700

® ® Silhouette Window Shadings Silhouette Window Shadings Silhouette® Window Shadings Silhouette® Window Shadings

Our Most Innovative Shades—Now with Special Rebates Our Most Innovative Shades—Now with Special Rebates Our Our Most Most Innovative Innovative Shades—Now Shades—Now with with Special Special Rebates Rebates

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*Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made October 1- December 5, 2023 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. A *Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made October 1- December 5, 2023 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the productatmodels set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than quaannutiftaiectsusreetr’fsom rthaial-binovreeb. aIftyeoouffpeurrvcahlaidsefoler sqsutahlaifnyinthgepsuprecchiafiseedsqmuaandteitOy,cytoobuewr i1ll- nDoetcbeemebnetrit5le, d20to23a rferobm ep.aRrteicbiaptaetiw *M ngilldbeealiessrsueind tihnethUe.Sfo. romnlyo.fAa qVuiratuliafyliRngewpuarrcdhCaasredisanddefienmeadilaesd awpituhricnh6asweeoefkasnoyf oref bthaetepcrloadim ucat pmporodvealsl. sSeutbfjoerctht taobaopvpeliicnatbhlee the will not be entitled to a rebate. Rebate will be issued the form of a Virtual emailed within 6 weeks of lqauwaspecified ,natit$ie3s.0s0etmfoonrtthhquantity, laybfoevee.wIfillyobue pausyou afitlel rb. eSiesesucin itharVdirCtuaReward ardl Raenw rdaCilaeCard rdd.wAitdhdinitiand rscehsasseedlaegssaitnhsatnctahred sbpaelacnificeed1q2um anotnittyh, syoauftewrilclanrodt ibsesueanntciteleadntdo eaarcehbm atoen. tRhetbhaetreew eodmipnlethtee tfeorrm msodf iastVriibrtuutaeldRwew d eam 6onwael elikms iotaf trieobnastm e aclyaiamppalpy.pA rosvkapl.aSrtuibcijpeacttitnogadpepalilcear bfoler floyrm nsteesrsDedouagglaaisn.to irgdhbtsalraensceerv1e2d.mAollnlaw, ttrhasdeam arrkc$3.00 sarudseisdsuhaenrmonthly ecien aanred tehaecphrm ofee poenrtthy will othfeHreuanbe spsedctisivteribouwtencard s.ith Vbalance rebate ldaewta, ials$a3nclaim .d00remboantethapproval. fe.e©w2i0ll2b3eHausSubject sAt lcl arapplicable ftea ftteerr.Dassessed Soeueglcaosmopr ltehteeirtereragainst m derw irtual Reward 12 Card.months Additional liafter mitationcard s may apissuance ply. Ask participand ating deach ealer for *Manufacturer’s mdaeitla-iinls raenbdarteebaotfefeforrvma.l© allsreigshm rd5h,e2re0i2n3arefrtohm poaftHinugntdeer aDloeurgslains othr teheUir.Sre. sopnelcyt.ivAe oqwuanelirfsy.ing purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the 2f0o2r3qHucomplete uanltiefyr iDnogupgularsc.hAterms tsareddistributed seerOvecdto. bAellrtr1a-dD emewith acrekm s ubseeVirtual e pproaprteirctyiCard. month thereafter.idSee Reward Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and quaannutiftaiectsusreetr’fsom rthaial-binovreeb. aIftyeoouffpeurrvcahlaidsefoler sqsutahlaifnyinthgepsuprecchiafiseedsqmuaandteitOy,cytoobuewr i1ll- nDoetcbeemebnetrit5le, d20to23a rferobm atep.aRrteicbiaptaetiw hUe.Sfo. romnlyo.fAa qVuiratuliafyliRngewpuarrcdhCaasredisanddefienmeadilaesd awpituhricnh6asweeoefkasnoyf oref bthaetepcrloadim at pmporodvealsl. sSeutbfjoerctht taobaopvpeliicnatbhlee *M ngilldbeealiherein essrsueind tihnetare ucowners. rebate form. ©2023 Hunter Douglas.

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er options available. Esca, which is in part short for Escalivada, a Catalan dish made with a variety of roasted vegetables, and that also translates to “kindling” or “bait,” will be a coastal Mediterranean grill and bar, with an emphasis on charcoal and wood cooking.

The City of Creve Coeur honored Michael Karasick with the Citizen of the Year award.

He was recognized for his years of service to the city as chairman of the pension board.

Karasick is managing director-investments at Wells Fargo Advisors.

At its recent annual meeting, United Hebrew Congregation honored Suzy Weber with the Irene Fox United Hebrew Ruach Award. This award is presented to members who embody the spirit of UH. Weber is a music and Hebrew teacher at the Saul Spielberg Early Childhood Center at United Hebrew.

Correction: A photo on the Dec. 20 Newsmakers page, of Jim Susman, United Hebrew’ Congregation’s new board president, incorrectly identified the person with him. The woman pictured is UH immediate past president Sheryl Bauer. The correct photo of Weber is included on the opposite page.

Emily Bornstein selected for Wexner Fellowship Emily Bornstein, chief of staff at Jewish Federation of St. Louis, has always felt a strong drive to contribute to the collective good.

“I’ve always believed that one person can make a difference, and I do this work in our community because I believe that, together, we can change the world,” said Bornstein, 34.

It is this drive and their work since joining Federation in 2014 that is being nationally recognized. The Wexner Foundation announced Bornstein as one of 15 Jewish professionals across North America selected for Class 8 of the Wexner Field Fellowship.

Bornstein, chosen from a highly competitive pool of applicants, will participate in a three-year intensive program learning from experienced faculty to develop tools for enhancing leadership while addressing pressing issues in the St. Louis Jewish community.

“I am most excited about building a Emily Bornstein diverse network of Jewish professionals across the country and immersing myself in Jewish learning,” said Bornstein.

“No one from St. Louis has ever been a recipient of this fellowship before,” said Brian Herstig, CEO and president of Jewish Federation of St. Louis. “Being recognized by your peers is one of the greatest honors one can receive. And being recognized nationally as one of the best from across the entire Jewish communal professional field is even more significant.”

As part of this program, Wexner Field Fellows will become part of a selective cohort of lifelong professional learners.

This will be achieved with the guidance of leadership from renowned teachers and Jewish educators from around the United States. Each fellow will receive one-on-one professional coaching and Jewish learning, along with access to funds for customized professional development opportunities.

January 10, 2024

Page 7

Scholar to address rising antisemitism in Holocaust Remembrance Day Lecture The St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum will welcome Michael Berenbaum as keynote speaker for the inaugural 2024 Rachel Miller Lecture, in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Berenbaum will give a timely lecture entitled, “The World Must Know: Antisemitism in the Wake of October 7th.” The lecture will take place at the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum at 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 28. The program will be followed by a book signing with Berenbaum.

Berenbaum is a writer, lecturer and teacher consulting in the conceptual development of museums and the development of historical films. He is director of the Sigi Ziering Institute: Exploring the Ethical and Religious Implications of the Holocaust at the American Jewish University (formerly the University of Judaism) where he is also a Distinguished Professor of Jewish Studies. From 1988–93 he served as Project Director of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, overseeing its Rachel Miller creation.

The Rachel Miller Lecture will take place each January. It is named in honor of Holocaust survivor Rachel Miller, who has spoken to thousands about her experience as a hidden child in France. This lecture is made possible with the support of Carole and Kenneth Adashek.

“I am so touched. I’m so glad [this gift] is going to the Museum. I’m ecstatic that it comes from the most dearest, wonderful human being that I love,” said Rachel Miller of Carole and Kenneth Adashek’s gift.

“Naming this lecture for Rachel is important to me not only because Rachel lost her own family in the Holocaust, but also because she has poured so much of her life into educating young people about the Holocaust, so that it won’t be forgotten and won’t happen again,” said Carole Adashek.

To reserve tickets, visit STLHolocaustMuseum.org/upcoming-events.

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OPINIONS

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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

‘They cannot steal our joy’ St. Louis rabbi shares moving account of ‘embracing moments of happiness even amidst times of tragedy’

BY RABBI YONASON GOLDSON

We can still find miracles of light in our seasons of darkness The week before Oct. 7, my newly engaged son and his fiancée were enjoying the Festival of Sukkos in Israel. Jake and Morgan had tickets to return to St. Louis the following week, when they would begin planning their wedding.

Hamas had other plans for them. Instead of flying home together on Delta, Morgan returned by herself on Ethiopian Airlines and Jake found himself reunited with his combat unit on Israel’s northern border.

We all remember the days and weeks that followed. We remember waiting for the Israel Defense Forces to launch its offensive to crush Hamas and recover the hostages. We remember waiting to see if America would stand with Israel against terrorist atrocities…which — gratefully — it has done. We waited to see if Hezbollah, Syria and Iran would open a second front to the north… which, for the moment, they have not.

And we continue to wait for victory over unbridled evil, for the return of the remaining hostages, for peace in our land, for Jewish students on American college campuses to feel safe, and for the world community to embrace sanity and denounce malevolent violence with one voice.

But Jake and Morgan decided not to wait any longer. If they couldn’t be together, at least they could sanctify their commitment to one another. And so, on two weeks’ notice, they resolved to marry in Israel.

They envisioned a small, quiet ceremony. But the IDF had other ideas; Jake’s unit wouldn’t hear of being excluded from the celebration. And so, nearly 100 celebrants, most of them wearing army green, gathered last week to sing and dance as the happy couple tied the knot. For a few short hours, barely a stone’s throw from the Syrian border, the horrors of terror and the threat of savage bloodshed receded behind a curtain of joy and brotherhood and hope and love.

Standing beneath the wedding canopy, Morgan shared these thoughts: “My journey to Judaism started over 15 years ago, but I can honestly say it was through this war, through this wedding, that I finally saw the incredible unity, the incredible kindness of Israelis. You are an incredible people, like none other. The way you unite during tragedy… the way you pulled off this incredible wedding for us. I couldn’t be happier to be part of the Jewish people…

Above and at left, scenes from the wedding of Jake and Morgan in Israel. Jake, the son of Rabbi Yonason Goldson of St. Louis, is serving in the Israel Defense Forces.

“But even in happiness, there is sadness.

And I think that’s OK. While we’re celebrating tonight, many of Jake’s friends couldn’t be here because they are busy defending our country. We know that now, while we’re celebrating, many are sitting shiva, many are mourning… over 100 of our people are still in captivity in a hell I can’t even imagine. None of this is right.

None of this makes sense. But I keep saying, they cannot steal our joy from us. We won’t let them take our joy.”

There could be no more poignant description of the Jewish experience: we embrace moments of happiness even amidst times of tragedy. We accept our eternal struggle against the darkness of moral anarchy, then reframe the pattern of

our lives as detours of trial and tears along our collective journey of unyielding, timeless joy. This is how we as a people have survived for 33 centuries, and how we continue to thrive until this day.

Because no matter how bitter the darkness, there is always hope.

Days after their wedding, the young couple received word that Jake’s unit had been released from service, at least until further notice. Like the one small flask of oil lasting eight days to cast off the spiritual darkness of Greek oppression, the short reprieve to celebrate a wedding stretched out toward a bright future. The disrupted path of two young Jewish souls eager to build a life together has been set back on course with their own Hanukkah miracle.

But the greatest challenge awaits them,

as they face the unknown future that lies ahead. And the greatest challenge awaits us as well, the Jewish people.

With the help of heaven, the guns of the current war will soon turn silent, and our soldiers will return home to their parents and their families. That’s when the real work begins, preserving our love, loyalty and commitment to one another in peace as we have in war, remembering that we are one nation with one soul. Holding onto the unity that has kindled among us in these dark days is the only security we have to ensure our enemies will not rise up against us again and again and again.

May the sounds of missiles soon be replaced by the music of rejoicing, may the tears of mourning give way to tears of joy and jubilation, may children be reunited with their parents and parents with their children. And above all, may we always remember that we are one people, united by a common heritage, a timeless legacy, and a higher purpose. If we do, we will truly fulfill our divine mission to become a light to the nations and bring about the era of eternal peace and harmony.

Rabbi Yonason Goldson is a TEDx speaker and award-winning podcast host. His most recent book is “The Spiral of Time: Discovering new insights and inspiration in the Jewish Calendar.” Visit him at ethicsninja.com.

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OPINIONS

January 10, 2024

‘I needed to see and understand for myself what is going on in Israel’ It’s a beautiful, cloudless day. The temperature is a perfect 75 degrees, and the December sun is causing me to sweat as I cut another clementine from the tree and put it in the bag draped across my body.

That’s when I hear a distance boom and rumble from artillery just about 25 miles away in Gaza. I pause, look up and shudder to think that I may have been a sonic witness to some kind of brutal attack.

But I’m not in this clementine orchard to report on or witness a war. I’m at a moshav (agricultural co-op) in Klahim, Israel, as a volunteer to help the farmers harvest a fraction of their citrus groves.

It’s work that would have been done by the Thai workers, but they all left the country following Hamas’ brutal Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

I’m there because I needed to see and understand for myself what is going on in Israel after the attack and during the ensuing war. Like most American Jews, I couldn’t stop reading the news after Oct. 7 and was constantly searching for more information. Even Jewish news outlets weren’t helping me understand what Israelis were experiencing and thinking.

I needed to see it for myself.

I discovered that the Jewish National Fund was organizing volunteer missions to Israel. I looked into it, signed up and booked my flight. Two weeks later, I was in Israel. I was there to listen, learn and suppress any temptation I had to judge.

That last part wasn’t easy because I’m not blindly supportive of Israel. I’ve never been able to reconcile how a country that was founded to give a homeland to a people who had been persecuted in diaspora for 1,800 years could become oppressors

During Neuman’s volunteer trip to southern Israel, she harvested fruit in a sunny clementine orchard on a moshav (above), but also visited scenes of Hamas’ Oct. 7 terror attack, including the now-empty home of Rachel and David Edri, who were held hostage during the attack.

PHOTOS: SHULA NEUMAN

The true heart of the Jewish People When the renowned Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky lived in Toronto in the 1940s, his synagogue presented him with a silver platter as a present for Purim. A few days later, one of the shul members saw Rav Kamenetsky in a Toronto pawn shop with this very same silver platter. The member thought it highly inappropriate. The shul gave their rabbi a gift and he went to pawn it! The member was shocked. He went back and told other members of the shul and the board of directors. A contingent came to Rav Kamenetsky and asked him “What kind of business is this – you went to pawn our gift in a pawn shop?”

Kamenetsky told the “Committee of Inquiry” that according to Jewish law the gift was considered part of his salary. If it is part of his salary, he felt, he needed to declare it on his income tax form as earned income. “I need to know how much the silver platter is worth, so I know how much to declare.” So, he took it into the pawn shop to assess the fair market value of the platter so that he could accurately record it as part of his income tax declaration.

This beautiful story illustrates the beauty of the heart of the Jewish people. Those who are immersed in Torah and follow not only its detailed commandments, but also

St. Louisan listens, learns during a recent volunteer trip to Israel Shula Neuman is a writer and editor based in St. Louis.

BY SHULA NEUMAN

BY RABBI ZE’EV SMASON

Page 9

do so in the spirit that God intends as expressed in His directive, Kedoshim Ti’yu, “You Shall be Holy,” act not simply with honesty, but with unassailable integrity.

Our people, descended from and who grow up surrounded by those immersed in Torah, are often capable of extraordinary compassion and forgiveness.

On a December day in Gaza, after Israel Defense Forces troops mistakenly identified three escaped Israeli hostages as a threat; Yotam Haim and two others were shot and killed. The pain of the Israeli families is enormous, and the pain and guilt of those who made the mistake are certainly beyond our ability to grasp.

But Iris Haim, mother of Yotam, recorded a message to those soldiers.

“I am Yotam’s mother. I wanted to tell you that I love you very much, and I hug you here from afar. I know that everything that happened is absolutely not your fault, and nobody’s fault except that of Hamas ....

I want you to look after yourselves ... you are doing the best thing in the world that could help us ... And don’t hesitate for a second if you see a terrorist. Don’t think that you killed a hostage deliberately.”

The bereaved mother continued: “At the first opportunity, you are invited to come to us... we want to see you with our own eyes and hug you and tell you that what you did — however hard it is to say this,

and sad — it was apparently the right thing in that moment. And nobody’s going to judge you or be angry. Not me, and not my (family). And not Yotam, may his memory be blessed .... We love you very much. And that is all.”

The soldiers sent her back a voice note: “We received your message, and since then we have been able to function again.

Before that, we had shut down.”

Iris Haim responded: “Amazing, that is what I wanted.” The next day, the opportunity came and the soldier from the battalion who had made the mistake visited Iris and her family.

We live in a day and age when the most minor of triggers strain relationships past the point of no return. Yet despite Iris Haim’s unimaginable pain, the compassion and forgiveness she expressed to the devastated IDF soldiers are the true heart of the Jewish people, exhibiting a stunning display of the emotional strength of those imbued with Torah values.

Israel now works together to defeat an enemy that committed the worst mass slaughter of Jews since the Holocaust and horrific war crimes that shocked humanity. The leaders of Hamas have said that “October 7 was just a dress rehearsal.”

Yet, while Israel tries to ensure the safety of its troops, the IDF does not bomb Gaza indiscriminately, as virtually any other army would do. Not only does Israel allow

of another population that has no homeland.

Despite my misgivings, I still have a love for the country. I lived there after college, working on a kibbutz, and have visited multiple times because I find the country inspiring and because I have family there. It is a vibrant, innovative, warm and incredibly creative culture.

Because of this mixed bag of feelings, I needed to go.

After my volunteer group finishes picking the clementines and oranges, we are shuttled to the village of Ofakim, one of the places attacked by Hamas terrorists Oct. 7. A city councilman recounts the story of what happened that day, how many of his friends and neighbors died.

He also says that nearly three months later, there aren’t enough mental health resources to help people.

We walk through the now-empty house of Rachel and David Edri, a couple who were held hostage in their home until 3 a.m., where Rachel cooked for the terrorists. The rooms of the house are scarred with bullet holes, and blood smears the See COMMENTARY on page 10

Rabbi Ze’ev Smason is chairman of the Coalition for Jewish Values Missouri.

aid to enter areas controlled by its enemy, but the IDF telegraphs its strategy to ensure that civilians flee combat zones.

And Israel continues to provide water, medicine, food and fuel to the Palestinians.

Colonel Richard Kemp, commander of British Forces in Afghanistan, fought in combat zones around the world including Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Macedonia and Iraq. Kemp was also present throughout the conflict in Gaza in 2014. In an article he authored and titled, “Israel: The World’s Most Moral Army,” Colonel Kemp wrote, “Based on my experience and on my observations: “The IDF does more to safeguard the rights of civilians in a combat zone than any other army in the history of warfare.”

Our Sages debate what is the greatest quality a person can acquire. Their conclusion? A lev tov, a “good heart.” The Torah begins and ends with the two Hebrew letters that spell lev, heart. If you’ve got a good heart, you’ve got it all: Integrity, compassion and forgiveness. Morality on the battlefield. These, and more, are the true heart of the Jewish people.

Page 10

OPINIONS

January 10, 2024

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D’VAR TORAH — VA’ERA

Leaders’ legitimacy flows from people’s willingness to listen

BY RABBI JOSEF DAVIDSON

Teaching children about tzedakah

BY NINA NEEDLEMAN

According to Chabad, tzedakah is the uniquely Jewish perspective on charity.

Tzedakah is a mainstay of Jewish life. The sages teach that the world was built upon kindness. Tzedakah goes one step beyond.

Literally translated as “justice” or “righteousness,” tzedakah tells us that sharing what we have with others isn’t something special. It’s the honest and just thing to do.

There are several tenets of tzedakah, including: • That it is not limited to gifts of money.

Sharing time, expertise, or even a kind smile are all forms of charity.

• Sharing with others. Throwing a coin into a charity box every morning (except for Shabbat and Jewish holidays) sets the tone for the rest of the day. So be sure to make it a habit.

There are also several “basics” of tzedakah, including: • Giving at least 10% of one’s net income to charity.

• Giving tzedakah to people who are in need and/or institutions that help those less fortunate, such as food pantries, social service agencies for immigrants and refugees, persons with disabilities and so forth.

The right time to give is always the right time to give. But some of these times are better than others, such as before prayers, before lighting candles and when saying Yizkor (prayer for the dead).

There are two interesting tzedakah quizzes. One for younger kids at https:// bit.ly/Chabad-quiz and another for teens at https://bit.ly/MJL-quiz.

No other mitzvah evokes as powerful a divine response as tzedakah. Using our hard-earned money for others rather than serving selfish needs is powerful. If you take care of others, G-d takes care of you.

Sages teach that tzedakah brings atonement and protects against harsh heavenly decrees.

Nina Needleman is a retired financial planner. She spent the first three-decades of her career in the financial services industry. Now she uses her business skills to help nonprofit organizations with capacitybBuilding and more importantly-- as a volunteer to teach people about personal finance and philanthropy.

In this week’s Torah portion, Va’era, Moses is revisited by God after Moses’ message is rejected by the enslaved Israelites. When God instructs him to go a second time to deliver his message to Pharaoh as well, Moses complains, “The Israelites would not listen to me; how then should Pharaoh heed me, a man of impeded speech!” (Exodus 6:2) The Hebrew for “impeded speech” is arel sfatayim, which literally means “uncircumcised of lips.” The most common understanding of this idiom is that Moses is reminding God that he has a speech impediment that makes him difficult to understand.

A Midrash explains that this impediment arises from a test to prove whether or not the baby Moses was the one the court viziers had forecasted would usurp the Pharaoh’s rule. They placed two objects before the baby: a golden crown and red hot coal. If Moses were to reach for the crown, that would prove that he was the usurper. Moses began to reach for the crown, but an angel redirected his hand to the coal, which he picked and touched to his lips, thus giving him his impediment.

There is, however, another explanation for Moses’ complaint regarding being one with arel statayim. Yehudah Aryeh

COMMENTARY CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE stairwell wall and the floor in one of the bedrooms. I wonder whether the bullets were shots the terrorists fired when they entered the house or they were from the Israeli rescuers? Surely, the blood is from the terrorists, since Ofakim’s police force ultimately killed them, saving the couple’s lives.

A few days later, my group of 70 volunteers join about 30 Israeli volunteers at an army base near Tel Aviv, where we are placed on an assembly line, filling boxes with nonperishable food for the Israel Defense Forces soldiers in Gaza.

In less than three hours, we fill 4,000 boxes.

That afternoon, we go to the Tel Aviv Expo, where we talk with survivors of the Nova music festival and tour the haunting exhibit they curated to commemorate the 360 people killed there and the dozens taken hostage. One of the festival organizers explains that Nova is part of an international movement with members in South America and Africa. It’s a movement that embraces peace, tolerance and environmental stewardship. And yet, she says, since Oct. 7, she has heard nothing from her peers in other countries. She and the other Nova participants say they need time to recover, that the exhibit is part of their therapy. And they will dance again.

The country is experiencing a collective depression, a doctor at Ramban

Rabbi Josef Davidson serves Congregation B’nai Amoona and is a member of the St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association, which coordinates the weekly d’var Torah for the Jewish Light.

Leib of Ger, in his classic Sfat Emet, suggests that “if the children of Israel refuse to listen to their leaders, there can be no leaders who are able to speak, who can become a mouth for them.” He quotes Psalm 50:7 in support: “Pay heed my people, and I will speak.” He then continues, saying: “As long as there are those who will listen, then there can be those who speak, because the power of the leader issues from the people. For this reason, if the children of Israel listen to Moses, his mouth would be opened, his speech would be fluent, and his words would reach Pharaoh. But that if they don’t want to listen to him, he is effectively made into ‘a man of impeded speech,’ and how then should Pharaoh heed me?”

What the Gerer Rebbe is saying is very profound. The impediment to Moses’ speech is physiological; it is psychological. It is not that he stutters, or lisps, or has difficult saying certain letters or sounds. It is that the Israelites’ refusal to listen to him has undermined his effectiveness in speaking to the Pharaoh, even if he speaks at the behest of God! The Israelites, unhappy with their lot and with the extra burden they felt was placed upon them by Moses’ perceived failure as a leader, do not allow him a second chance. They turn a deaf ear to all that he has to say and turn their backs on him as a leader. Without their support, without their acceptance of his leadership, Moses is prevented from being the type of leader who can go and face Pharaoh with any confidence. If those whom he was chosen to lead do not listen, what is the chance that his adversary, the most powerful figure in the then-known world, would?

Moses ability and, therefore, authority to lead comes not from God, after all, but from the Israelites themselves. So it is with leaders in general. To be effective leaders and not mere tyrants or bullies, leaders are required to bring a message to which people will listen and on which they will act. Anything short of that is impeded speech.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hospital in Haifa tells us before we distribute care packages to health care workers and patients. I hear this sentiment over and over from taxi drivers, shopkeepers and my family, whom I visit after the volunteer mission ends.

Posters of the hostages are everywhere in Israel. Hanging from almost everyone’s neck are dog tags with the name of a hostage and the simple message: Bring them home. More than anything, that seems to be what Israelis want most.

Yet as the fighting in Gaza continues and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza grows larger, many Israelis are finding ways to overlook the horrors and justify Israel’s actions so they aren’t morally complicit in the devastation.

They believe that everyone in Gaza is part of Hamas. This point is driven home by a reservist from Halutzim, a kibbutz founded by a few hundred Israelis who had been removed from Gaza during the 2005 disengagement.

The kibbutz is wedged between Gaza and Egypt. Palestinians from Gaza worked there alongside the Israelis. The reservist says some of those same Gazans helped the terrorists Oct. 7.

Never again will he trust a Palestinian, he says.

Israelis feel isolated and view other countries’ condemnations as further proof that the world is antisemitic, holding Israel to a different standard than other nations. This makes no sense to people like my uncle — my left-leaning uncle — who explains to me one evening that there is no such a thing as

Palestinians.

He called them “Arabs” because, he says, there was never a country called Palestine. He says no one lived in a territory before the 1880s and that those who did had no “real” ties to the land, no sense of place, nor history. He says it was the Jews who brought Arabs to the country because the Jews were building the place and making it thrive and the Arabs needed the work. He mentions the Jews’ biblical right to the land.

This isn’t just my uncle’s truth, a lot of Jews believe this. As an outsider, I can kind of see why they have to believe it.

To accept a different history creates a moral dilemma for a people with thousands of years worth of generational trauma, when we were the persecuted people.

My cousin, a middle school teacher, takes me to the airport for my trip home. She tells me that in the first week of the war, one of her former students, a 19-year-old, was killed in the fighting.

Then, a few weeks later, one of her colleagues’ sons was killed in Gaza. My cousin says that she can’t sleep and has trouble focusing. She can do only the bare minimum to keep going.

I ask her what she makes of what is happening in Gaza. She says she’s saddened by it. But then she adds that she has to believe that this war will serve a higher purpose, that it will have some kind of meaning and accomplish something for the state of Israel.

She says she has to believe that, otherwise the deaths of those two soldiers she knew were pointless.

CHAILIGHTS STL

JEWISH LIGHT

stljewishlight.org

January 10, 2024

JAN

Y O U R C A L E N D A R O F S T. L O U I S J E W I S H C O M M U N I T Y E V E N T S

Author Rachel Beanland will discuss her book, ‘The House Is on Fire,’ on Jan. 16 at an event sponsored by the J and the JCRC. The talk takes place at Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

FRIDAY | JAN. 12 Potluck Shabbat for 20-, 30- and 40-somethings

The young adult chapter of Sparks Match! is hosting another potluck Shabbat dinner at 6 p.m. Bring something vegetarian to share and celebrate Shabbat together and meet new people. RSVP to Daphne at daphnekoalabear@gmail.com.

TUESDAY | JAN. 16 The J, JCRC plan author event to commemorate MLK Day

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Jewish Community Center and the Jewish Community Relations Council invite the public to a thought-provoking literary event on “The House Is on Fire” by Rachel Beanland. The book tells the poignant story of the 1811 Richmond Theatre Fire and the subsequent hunt for truth amid a backdrop of racial tension and deception. The event takes place at the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, 12 Millstone Campus Drive (doors open at 6:30 p.m., program starts at 7).

Attendance requires registration (select “buy ticket,” but there is no charge). To reserve a seat, visit www.showpass.com/ rachel-beanland-the-house-is-on-fire.

Live from Mirowitz Center: Ukrainian musician Denys Boyev

Violinist and composer Denys Boyev – recently relocated from Ukraine to St. Louis – will share instrumental music from his homeland from 2 to 3 p.m. An accomplished musician, he also plays classical, jazz, and folk music. To register for this free Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

WEDNESDAY | JAN. 17 Staying safe online

This hands-on workshop, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., reviews important tips for keeping your personal information safe while enjoying the benefits of the internet. Mirowitz Center Trainer Larry Edison will help you learn how to recognize suspicious emails, tips for safe browsing, and best practices for shopping online. With support from the Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged, the Mirowitz Center will provide you with a Chromebook computer to follow along. To register for this free Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

THURSDAY | JAN. 18 St. Louis County Library Book Club: “Between the Covers”

January’s book selection – “The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise,” by Colleen Oakley – features a college dropout and an 84-year-old woman on the run from the law, full of tremendous heart, wit and wisdom.

With St. Louis County Library Reference Librarian Hillary Peppers facilitating, the Mirowitz Center’s online book club meets at 10 a.m. every third Thursday of each month.

There is no cost to attend, but RSVP is required. The county library is also at the Mirowitz Center from 10 to11a.m. every other Friday. This month, the library will be

there Jan. 12 and 26.

National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis advocacy event From noon to 1 p.m. NCJWSTL will host “Combatting Human Trafficking with FBI Special Agent Daniel Root.” Root is assigned to the Violent Crimes Against Children/ Human Trafficking task force. In his current assignment, he investigates child exploitation and trafficking crimes, as well as serving as an FBI Crisis Negotiator. For more information, contact Jen Bernstein at jbernstein@ncjwstl.org or call 314-993-5181.

FRIDAY | JAN. 19 NHBZ community Tu B’Shevat Shabbat Dinner

Celebrate Tu B’Shevat at NHBZ’s Community Shabbat Dinner, featuring a Tu B’Shevat-themed dinner prepared by NHBZ’s culinary artist Norma Rubin. Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat services will begin at 4:45 p.m., and dinner will be served at 5:45 p.m. The cost for the dinner is: $25 for adults; $15 for children; Free for children ages 5 and under. There is an $80 maximum expense for families. RSVP at office@nhbz. org or by calling 314-991-2100, ext. 2.

SATURDAY | JAN. 20 Shaare Emeth, the J plan Boker Tov Shabbat: Tu B’Shevat edition From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Congregation Shaare Emeth and the Jewish Community Center invite families with children 5 and younger to celebrate Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the Trees, with a musical service, continental breakfast, “JEWnior Chef” create-your-own smoothie bar and more. We’ll pray, sing, and share the joy and peace of Shabbat together while celebrating trees.

Free and open to all. RSVP at https://bit.ly/ Boker-Tov-Shabbat-2024. Questions? Contact Emily Cohen, ecohen@sestl.org or 314692-5323.

SUNDAY | JAN. 21 Artist reception at B’nai Amoona There will be an artist reception at B’nai Amoona from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., featuring artists Sarah Blumenfeld, Edward Farber, Sharron Pollack, Fran Silver and Naomi Silver. Light refreshments will be served. The exhibit of their works opens on Jan. 14 and will continue through May 4. The reception and exhibit are open to all.

Jewish War Veterans meeting

Jewish War Veterans Post 644 will meet in the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum at 10 a.m. on the third Sunday of

each month (unless otherwise indicated). A Zoom option will be available for those not able to attend in person. For more information and the Zoom link contact Post 644 Commander Ellis Frohman at 636-519-7512 (leave a message if no one answers).

STARTING | JAN. 21 Two-part series at TI on Jews with tattoos and other taboos

Join the rabbis of Congregation Temple Israel for a two-part series looking at Jewish taboos. There are 613 mitzvot (commandments) in the Torah, but not all Jewish taboos are based on Jewish law. This series will look at tattoos, cremation, interfaith marriage and substance abuse — exploring the roots and reasons behind many of the things that “Jews just don’t do” and find out just how taboo, or not, they really are. The classes are 9:45 to 11:15 a.m. on Sundays, Jan. 21 and Feb. 11 at Temple Israel. RSVP is required at: www.ti-stl.org/AdultEducation.

TUESDAY | JAN. 23 NCJWSTL Coffee Talk

From 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., join NCJWSTL for the January Coffee Talk, when the guest speaker will be Vivian Gibson, award-winning author of “The Last Children of Mill Creek,” a personal account of growing up in Mill Creek Valley. This was a segregated working-class neighborhood that was raised in 1959 to build Highway 40, an act of racism disguised under urban renewal “progress.” Participants will learn a great deal about St. Louis history, including some Jewish history. Learn more about Gibson and “The Last Children of Mill Creek” at www. vivian-gibson.com. For more information, contact Jen Bernstein at jbernstein@ncjwstl. org or call 314-993-5181.

The Week in Review

Moderated by Harvey Gerstein and Marilyn Alton, the Week in Review is a forum for thoughtful discussion about the most pressing news stories of the week. This program, from 10 to 11 a.m., is provided with FEL (Friends Enjoying Life), the Mirowitz Center men’s organization. To register for this free Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/ Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

THURSDAY | JAN. 25 NCJWSTL plans Birthing Justice: Screening, discussion

Join NCJWSTL from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Temple Israel (1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive) for “Birthing Justice,” a screening and panel discussion. Birthing Justice explores the issues fueling the maternal health crisis

Page 11

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.

within the Black community and advocates for the best practices to enhance birthing equity for all women. The panel discussion will be moderated by Darcy Scharff and include Dr. Melissa Tepe, Melissa Betts-Sanders (a woman with lived experience) and Lora Gulley of Generate Health. The event is sponsored by NCJWSTL, Generate Health, Temple Israel, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The event is free of charge, but registration is required at https://bit.ly/ Birthing-Justice-2024. For more information, contact Jen Bernstein at jbernstein@ ncjwstl.org or call 314-993-5181.

Mirowitz Center tech program

From noon to 1 p.m., Mirowitz Center Trainer Daniel Landsbaum covers different types of malware and how they work. You not only will be introduced to some anti-virus programs and malware-remover software, but also will learn how such tools can be used to prevent and get rid of malware infections. To register for this free Mirowitz Center program, visit http://bit.ly/Mirowitz-registration, call 314-733-9813 or email skemppainen@mirowitzcenter.org.

David Ben-Gurion’s grandson to headline community event See related news brief on page 4.

SUNDAY | JAN. 28 NHBZ Pizza Night Returns

NHBZ is excited to announce the return of its Pizza Night. Join NHBZ from 5 to 7 p.m. for an all-you-can-eat buffet of kosher pizza, pasta, salad and French fries plus a dessert and beverage. All food is under the supervision of Rabbi Chaim Bogolpulsky. Prices are: $15 for adults; $8 kids ages 3-12; free for kids ages 3 and under. Credit cards are accepted. For more information, call 314991-2100, ext. 2.

A cappella group STAAM performs at Traditional

Staam, WashU’s premier Jewish a cappella group, is performing at Traditional Congregation at 11 a.m. Stamm’s repertoire includes liturgical music and songs in Hebrew, as well as English songs by Jewish artists such as Billy Joel, Simon and Garfunkel, Pink, Ben Platt and more. The performance will be preceded by brunch at 10 a.m.

There is no charge but Share the Fare donations are appreciated. Registration is required via email to either: mblevy450@ gmail.com or mfstrauss@prodigy.net and must be received by Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 5 p.m. Traditional Congregation is located at 12437 Ladue Road. For questions or more information, contact Marty at 636-6285420 or Mindy at 314-640-0711.

STARTING | JAN. 29 The J to host used book sale

The Jewish Community Center’s biannual Used Book Sale returns Jan. 28 through Feb. 1 with offerings in a variety of genres, including mysteries, general fiction, nonfiction, children’s books and many others. Preview day is Sunday, Jan. 29 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with a $10 admission and free admission begins on Monday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, and on Thursday customers can fill a bag for $5 between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. For updated and complete information visit jccstl.com/programs/used-book-sale/.

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January 10, 2024

To the Educators and Rabbis of our St. Louis schools and synagogues who raised and inspired us:

F

rom before we learned aleph-beit to the time we left for yeshivas, seminaries, and higher education, you instilled in us a love for Torah study, a reverence for our ancestors and their observance, and a profound respect for the unbroken chain of tradition from Sinai until today. Most of all, you taught us the need to apply critical thinking within the framework of divine wisdom handed down across the generations.

We are grateful to you not only for communicating the teachings of Jewish culture and identity, but for showing us by your modeling how imperfect human beings aspire to fulfill a higher purpose. It is the example you set that has prepared us to navigate the moral complexity of grappling with conflicting values and priorities in an often-paradoxical material world.

We are pained by the tragic suffering of Gazan civilians and the senseless loss of life. But their plight does not blind us to clearly recognizing those who are ultimately responsible–the terrorist organization Hamas, as well as their supporters and enablers.

War should always be a last resort.

Indeed, the sages teach that the destruction of our enemies is not cause for celebration (Megillah 10b — online at https://bit.ly/unity-letter1). But sometimes there really is no alternative, most notably when facing a murderous enemy motivated by unrelenting hatred.

Israel has an ethical mandate for self-preservation (as would any other country) against a malevolent organization that will not rest until every last Jew is annihilated. We refuse to indulge the disingenuous moral equivalence (see bit.ly/unity-letter2) that conflates unprovoked criminal atrocities with collateral damage in a defensive war.

Since the international community voted Israel into existence in 1947, Israelis have wanted only to live in peace with their Arab neighbors. We reject the absurd narrative of Gaza as a concentration camp when it is Hamas leaders who have forced the closure of borders, preventing their own people from prospering and subjecting them to poverty and peril (bit.ly/unity-letter3).

We also denounce the slanderous claim against Israel of genocide, considering how the IDF goes to lengths unheard of by any other army in the world to warn civilians of impending attacks; also the indefensible accusation of apartheid, when Israeli Arabs enjoy full rights and privileges, as well as higher standards of living, education, and healthcare than any of their Arab neighbors.

We lament the misguided call for ceasefire, when Hamas has shown time and time again that it will exploit

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any relaxation of hostilities to rearm and prepare for its next assault, diverting billions of dollars in aid that could provide Gazan citizens with a prosperous, comfortable, and peaceful life to prepare for its next attacks against Israeli civilians. We find United Nations resolutions against Israel wholly lacking in credibility, considering the appointment of Iran’s envoy to chair a U.N. human rights council meeting in Geneva (bit.ly/unityletter4) and UNWRA’s complicity in Hamas atrocities (bit.ly/unity-letter5).

We are outraged by the twisted reasoning that emboldens terrorism and increases needless suffering on both sides. Those who suffer from this kind of moral confusion prove the sages’ teaching that one who shows compassion in a time that calls for ruthlessness will ultimately show cruelty in a time that calls for compassion (Kohelet Rabbah 7:16 — bit.ly/unity-letter6). And we are baffled by our misguided brothers and sisters who actively or tacitly support the leaders of a society that denies (bit.ly/unity-letter7) women’s rights, human rights, and the basic dignity that every human being deserves.

We cannot count the number of our former fellow students who have made aliyah, who have served and continue to serve in the IDF, who are living in the land of our patriarchs and matriarchs according to the values we absorbed during our formative years.

These are the true heroes of our people, who have willingly placed themselves in harm’s way; these are the contributors to a vibrant nation that does not deserve to be maligned by those who live comfortably in America with no need to concern themselves with the realities of life in our land.

We therefore ask that Jewish clergy and educators in our community: • Teach the true history of the origins and development of modern-day Israel to decisively refute the false narratives used to slander our people.

• Continue to express support to our congressional leaders and the White House for America’s continued support for Israel to eliminate Hamas.

• Impress upon every member of our community the moral responsibility to become more fluent in the facts and history that show Israel in its true light as the only democracy in the Mideast and the only hope for lasting peace in the region.

Without a united front presented by Jewish communities around the world, the likelihood of repeated outbreaks of violence between the peoples of Israel and Gaza increases exponentially.

It is only through informed moral clarity that peace will ever be achieved to relieve the suffering and loss of life among Jews and Arabs alike.

JEWISH LIGHT

stljewishlight.org

SIGNATORIES AND AFFILIATIONS • Richard Senturia, Citizens For a Just and Lasting Peace in the Middle East • Katie Wallace, Parkway West High School, United Hebrew, URJ Heller High School in Israel • Neil Silverman, U City Shul • Emunah Weisman, Epstein Hebrew Academy (EHA) • Dana Weingart, United Hebrew • Sam Freedman, Torah Prep • Robert Hardcastle, Aish • Chasi Rosenbaum, Torah Prep/Bais Yaakov High School • A.J. Moll, Tpheris Israel Chevra Kadisha (TICK) • Jonty Felsher, Immediate Past President, Young Israel • Dawn Posner Goldstein, Camp Sabra • Sivya Smason, Block Yeshiva High School (BYHS) • Marilen Pitler, United Hebrew • Mike Minoff, Aish HaTorah • Traci Goldstein, Co-President St. Louis Friends of Israel, B’nai Amoona, United Hebrew, Temple Israel, Alexander Muss High School in Israel • Daniel Z Lefton, EHA, Agudas Israel, Young Israel • Josh Lefton, EHA • Jack Lefton, EHA • Samuel Lefton, EHA • Dodi Smason Taylor, EHA, BYHS • Shira Siegel, Young Israel • Lexie Goldsmith, United Hebrew • Todd Rush, U City Shul • Laura Hulbert Goldmeier, B’nai Amoona • Shira Donath, Young Israel • Tzvi Muser, Torah Prep • Gaby Raileanu, BYHS • Elianna Axelbaum, Torah Prep • Yaffa Leah Rothenberg, Agudas Israel and Torah Prep • Eli Kamins, Torah Prep • Rina Pollack, Torah Prep, Agudas Israel • Robin Brody, Shaare Emeth • Goldie Rebel, Torah Prep • Jim Siegel, B’nai El, Shaare Emeth • Bracha Frank, Torah Prep, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov (EMBY) • Shevy Brown, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Shifra Jan Axelbaum, Agudas Israel (now living in Raanana, Israel) • Rachel Katzman, Traditional Congregation/B’nai Amoona • Sophia Rifkin, BYHS • Avi and Shani Roberts, Torah Prep/U. City Shul/Ignite YP • Sheva Weinreb, Torah Prep • Reva Mae Davis, United Hebrew • Rachel Switzer, Torah Prep • Eliyahu Switzer, Torah Prep • Shira Boroosan, Torah Prep • Miriam Perel, Torah Prep/ EMBY/Aguda • Suri Notowich Botuck, Torah Prep/Esther Miller Bais Yaakov/ Agudas Israel • Zahava List, Agudah, Orthodox Community • Avigail Gelber, Agudath Israel • Esther Moser, Torah Prep • Esther Edelstein, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Dena Granick, Torah Prep/ Agudah • Karen Kern, Kol Rinah • Dovid Moser, Nusach Hari Bnei Zion • Miriam Freilich, Torah Prep • Nosson Kamins, Torah Prep • Dina Feldman, Torah Prep, EMBY, Agudas Israel • Rafael Perel, Torah Prep/ EMBY/Agudah/U.City Shul • Steven Engelhardt, Central Reform Congregation • Danielle Goldmeier, U City Shul • Avishai Brown, Agudas Yisroel • Stephen Glassman, Agudas Israel, Torah Prep, Missouri Torah Institute, St. Louis Kollel, JSU, NCSY • Batsheva Florans, Torah Prep/ Agudas Israel • Mordechai Zeffren, Torah Prep • Aviva Greenblatt Schechter, EHA, Agudas Israel • Stephen and Dina Fried, Torah Prep • Steven Kofkoff, Temple Israel • Malka Silverman, Agudas Israel and Bais Yaakov • Howard Loiterstein, Bnai Amoona, Shaare Zedek, Nusach Hari, FDR AZA, Aish HaTorah Board, ADL Board, Covenant Place Board • Avraham Greenblatt, Agudath Israel • Deena Edelstein, Torah Prep, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Devorah Hochstadter, Torah Prep/Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Jenny Wolkowitz, Congregations Agudas Achim (TX,), Temple Beth shalom (WA, B’nai Amoona and United Hebrew • Rich Wolkowitz, B’nai Amoona, USY • Zoe Wolkowitz Brannon, SSDS, Camp Ramot Amoona, URJ Greene Family Camp

• Talia Wolkowitz, SSDS, IDF Soldier, Camp Ramot Amoona, B’nai Amoona • Phoebe Wolkowitz, SSDS, Camp Ramot Amoona, URJ Greene Family Camp • Aaron Edelstein, Torah Prep • Jennifer Kaufman, CRC • Aryeh Needle, EHA/BYHS • Rabbi Tzvi Perlman, Torah Prep • Nechama Weiss, Torah Prep/ Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Rivka Biron, EHA, Torah Prep and Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Batsheva Perlman, Torah Prep/EMBY • Laurie Goldberg, Shaare Emeth • Naomi Perel, Torah Prep / EMBY/ Agudas Israel • Chaya Malune, Torah Prep and Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Mrs. Michal Feivelson, Torah Prep and Esther Miller Bais Yaakov Schools • Yana Hotter, United Hebrew • Jill Mirowitz Mogil, Young Israel, JSU advocate, STS advocate • Elizabeth Rosen, Young Israel • Sara Scheinert, Torah Prep, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Lisa Baron, Young Israel/ EHA • Eliezer Florans, Torah Prep • Elisheva Zeffren, Torah Prep / EMBY • Deborah Schuman, EHA • Sora Liba Yudin, Torah Prep, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Shulamis List Goldstein, Torah Prep/Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Joey Mufson, EHA & BYHS • Laivy Brown, Torah Prep • Shari Whay, B’nai Amoona • Yitzchak Staum, T.I.C.K. • Esther Stern, Torah Prep/ Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Max Oppenheimer, EHA, Block Yeshiva High School, Young Israel • Igor Rebel, Torah Prep • Max Gornish, EHA, Young Israel, BYHS, NCSY • Rachel Wallis Andreasson, Temple Israel • Chad Wallis, Temple Israel • Judah Spetner, Torah Prep • Nechama Henderson, Torah Prep/Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Melissa Rush, EHA/ Yeshivat Kadimah, Torah Prep/Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, NCSY • Matis Rosenberg, Torah Prep • Aviva Spetner, Torah Prep/ Esther Miller Bais Yaakov/ Agudah • Jonathan Shanker, EHA • Aaron J Spetner, Torah Prep, Agudas Israel • Ellie Weisz, EHA/BYHS • Etty Graff, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Sol Zelcer, U City Shul • Elisheva Anton, Torah Prep/ Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Christopher Kline, EHA, Young Israel • Talya Becker, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Minna Florans, Torah Prep/ Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Rick Cornfeld, United Hebrew • Marcy Cornfeld, United Hebrew • Talia Schuss, EHA, Torah Prep, Young Israel, and Agudas Israel • Tziona Zeffren, Agudas Israel • Dov Zeffren, Torah Prep, EHA • Allen Dryer, Young Israel • Adiel Munk, BYHS • Aaron Axelbaum, Young Israel, Epstein, BYHS • Yvette Levy, Beth Midrash Hagadol Shaarei Chesed • Alana Minoff, JSU • Riki Gutovich, BYHS • Malka Klein, Torah Prep • Dena Bienenfeld Flaks, BYHS • Sam Goldenhersh, Agudas Israel • Gila Rachel Jacobsen, Solomon Schechter Day School • Abbe Bassin, Temple Israel • Sammy Chervitz, Young Israel • Lisa Fruchter, EHA, Young Israel • Yeshai Gibli, EHA • Michal Goldstein, BYHS • Rachi Levy, EHA, BYHS, UCity Shul • Tamar Silberman, EHA, BYHS, Young Israel, U City Shul • Levy Zimand, EHA, Block Yeshiva High School, MTI, Chabad of Greater St. Louis • Yechiel Bresler, JCRC, NCSY, EHA, BYHS, Young Israel • Sheera Menchel, Young Israel • Ashira Lasdun, Torah Prep • Eitan Zeffren, EHA • Noah Pollack, EHA, BYHS, Young Israel • Baila Shulman, Young Israel • Meir Zimand, Bet Shraga Hebrew Academy of the Capital District, EHA, BYHS, Traditional Congregation, Young Israel, Chabad, and Kol Rinah.

• Yael Feiner, Young Israel, Agudas Yisroel, EHA • Rivki Levy, EHA, UCity Shul • Dov Axelbaum, Shaare Zedek Bar Mitzva, Torah Prep and Esther Miller Bais Yaakov

• Samuel Siwak, CRC, Student to Student, AEPi fraternity, Birthright alum • Rachel Zimand, EHA, Chabad of U City, BYHS, Young Israel, Torah Prep • Raffy Gutman, Torah Prep, Agudath, JCC, HAFTR, Shomrei Shabbos, Young Israel • Rebekka Bridge, Young Israel • Isaac Mayefsky, MD, Young Israel • Rivka Goldenhersh, EHA, BYHS, Torah Prep, Bais Yaakov, Agudas Israel • Carli Kadish Gutman, Torah Prep • Angie Rosenberg, EHA, St. Louis Jewish Light, Nusach Hari • Natalie Schwab, U-City Shul • Leila Redlich, Young Israel, EHA • Naomi Mond, BYHS • Avi Munk, BYHS • Liessa Alperin, B’nai Amoona • Jennifer Goldenberg, Bnai Amoona • Naomi Munk, BYHS • Levi Zeffren, Jewish nonprofit professional, EHA, BYHS. JCRC Student-to-Student, NCSY, BBYO Aleph, NCSY Summer Participant, Young Israel, JCC • Madison Pines, UH, Butler University Hillel President • Seth Near, Young Israel, EHA • Jenny Rosenblatt, B’nai Amoona • Lorraine Landy, Young Israel • Jennifer Houser, Shaare Emeth • Jerrold Michael Pines, Beth Torah Aventura • Ruby H, Torah Prep • Rachel Deutsch, Epstein • Yoneena Heit, UCity Shul • Netanel Munk, BYHS • Rena Elefant, Torah Prep • Dina Heit, Bais Yaakov • Phyllis Kessler, Temple Emanuel • Zack Deutsch, Young Israel • Zehava Simon, Torah Prep, Bais Yaakov, U City Shul • Bracha Wainbrand, Torah Prep, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, Agudas Yisroel • Yocheved Blum, Torah Prep and EMBY • Hadassah Brown, Torah Prep • Moshe Zeffren, Torah Prep • Erez Haluf, Beth El synagogue of Baltimore • Gabriela Szteinberg Mirowitz, Bais Abraham • Nechama Heit, U City Shul, NCSY, Bnei Akiva, Torah Prep, Yeshivat Kadimah • Jackie Zitin, Young Israel • Abbi Marks Mazur, Bnai Amoona • Joni Kaiser, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Rebecca Bromberg, Solomon Schechter, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion, NCSY, JSU, Camp Ben Frankel • Rebecca Lieberman, Agudah • Maxine Mirowitz, Bais Abraham • Zoë Rosenberg, United Hebrew • Chaim Nechamkin, Agudas Israel • Mark Cantor, B’Nai Amoona, JCC, Aish, Chabad • Joy Marcus, Aish HaTorah St. Louis • Lee Goodman, Aish • Yael Sabin, JSU • Max Minoff, Aish HaTorah Hebrew School • Jen Bernstein, B’nai Amoona, AJC • Rafi Minoff, Aish HaTorah Hebrew School • Shelley List, Agudas Israel • Yishama Minoff, Aish HaTorah Hebrew School • Maury Poscover, United Hebrew • Keryn Price, EHA, Young Israel • Galina Dega, Aish HaTorah, U. City Shul • Stuart J. Ozar MD, Agudas Israel, BYHS • Stacy (Flegel) Kass, Agudas Israel (current), Torah Prep parent, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov Parent, Ner Israel Yeshiva Parent, Yeshiva of Minneapolis parent, Washington University Hillel (past student), Camp GUCI (past camper, counselor and unit head), BBYO (past), and Bnos Sarah Seminary Parent (Har Nof Israel), Temple Israel St. Louis (attended/member as a child), and attended United Hebrew for Hebrew School • Gaddy Bergmann, TICK • Valerie Bergmann, TICK • Eric Nelson, B’nai Amoona, Saul Mirowitz • Brent Kornblum, U City Shul, Aish HaTorah, St. Louis Jewish Light • Kimberly Vonk, BBYO, UH, Aish Hatorah, Saul Mirowitz, EEHA, U City Shul • Eli Gildener, Torah Prep, EHA, Chabad, U City Shul • Todd and Sarah Rush, U. City Shul • Yoni and Hannah Wulwick, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov

• Eitan Oberlander, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Yeshivat Kadimah High School, Bnei Akiva of St. Louis, NCSY, Young Israel, Bais Abraham, JCRC Student to Student, JCRC Jewish and Muslim Teen Dialogue Group, Jewish Environmental Initiative.

• Dr. Robert & Barbara Strashun, Young Israel • Alan Brook, Nusach Hari • Bryson Hartranft, Aish Hatorah • Anna Bukhshtaber, EHA • Devorah Soroka, Agudath Israel of St. Louis • Bryson Hartranft, Temple Israel • Celia Weingart, Miami University • Jackie and Craig Berkin, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Martin Hahn, Aish HaTorah • Heath Berkin, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Nicole Loiterstein, Temple Israel, Kol Rinah, BBYO, Aish Hatorah, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Zahava Silverman, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Jack Loiterstein, Kol Rinah • Lisa Fishman, Temple Israel, Aish Hatorah • Jason Loiterstein, NHBZ, Kol Rinah, Aish Hatorah • Alan Kandel, Vaad Hoeir, Agudas Israel, Young Israel, U. City Shul • Barry and Gwen Liebman, Aish St. Louis • Teree Farbstein, NHBZ • Melanie Thiede, Kadima • Irwin M Fredman, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Malcolm & Pamela Klearman, U City Shul • Kaitlyn Thiede, B’nai Amoona • Vicki Kay Parker, Kol Rinah (Shaared Zedek) B’nai Amoona • Jonathan Paull, Agudas Israel, T.I.C.K • Lynda Cohen, EHA, Agudas Israel, U. City Shul • Linda Newman, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Elizabeth Gartner, EHA • Ella Pernik, NHBZ • Tziporah Paull, Agudah • Sarah Pernik, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Joan Weis, B’nai Amoona • Phyllis Loiterstein, NHBZ, Holocaust Museum, St Louis Kollel, Aish HaTorah • Andrew Babitz, J.D. CFP(r), United Hebrew • Larry Carson, Shaare Emeth • Rhonnie Goldfader, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Michael S. Alter, Aish HaTorah • Julie Eisenberg, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Robyn Weiss, Agudas Israel • Rivka Howley, U City Shul, Torah Prep • Megan Baris, United Hebrew • Marina Levada, Kadimah New Zealand • Debbie Friedman, Young Israel • Emma Malter, UH • Peggy Umansky, UH, Shaare Emeth,B’nai Amoona • Chana Gittel Zeffren, Torah Prep, Bais Yaakov, Agudah • Devorah Brown, Sha’arei Chesed • Jennifer Spector, Shaare Emeth • Lisa Rosenblum, Shaare Emeth • Fred Rosenblum, Shaare Emeth • David Greengart, Agudah • Alice Brown, B.S.K.I. Sunday School and Hebrew School, Young Israel, Bais Abe, Agudah, U. City Shul, Bais Chana, Chabad, Aish HaTorah, Discovery Weekend, Agudah, U.City Shul, Bais Abe • Leo J Saltzman, B’nai Amoona • Shulamith Simon, UCity Shul • Shana Gordon, Agudas Israel • Mark Gordon, Agudas Israel • Dov Gordon, Torah Prep • Talya Gordon, Esther Miller Beis Yaakov • Naftali Gordon, Torah Prep • Eli Gordon, MTI • Temima Gordon, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Yisroel Gordon, Torah Prep • Freida Aliza Gordon, Torah Prep • Jennifer Cohen, EHA • Ethan Cohen, Nusach Hari • Ezra Cohen, NCSY • Abram Cohen, EHA • Sanford Cohen, Nusach Hari • Hannah Mirowitz, Solomon Schechter Day School, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion, Camp Ben Frankel, Jewish Student Union, JCRC Student to Student • Elisheva Gordon, Esther Miller Bais Yakov High School • Shoshana List, EHA, Torah Prep, EMBY • Aharon Katz, Share Tzedek • Jacob Kanter, Neve Shalom • Elisheva Kent, NCSY, Aguda • Ross Rosenberg • David A Rubin, Young Israel • Rivka Dushoff-Tobin, U City Shul

STL

JEWISH LIGHT

stljewishlight.org

January 10, 2024

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Page 13

(more than 1,000 names to date—add your name by visiting https://bit.ly/stl-letter) • Mike Richter, I’m Jewish!

• Jordan Tobin, EHA • Itta Boyko, EHA • Aharon Perel, Agudath • Chana Perel, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, Torah Prep, Agudas Israel • Aliza Trevino, Torah Prep, Agudas Israel • Tova Lakritz, BYHS, T.I.C.K • Binyomin Mazer, U. City Shul • Sally Rochelle Needle, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Ellie Weisz, EHA/BYHS • Kalanit Chappell, Bais Abraham • Adele Feldman, Young Israel • Jacqueline Gerson, Young Israel • Claire Wolff, U City Shul, Aish HaTorah • Basya Wolff Ackerman, EHA, Torah Prep, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov High School, U City Shul • Richard Axelbaum, EHA, Young Israel, U.City Shul • Belleanne Curry and Andy Curry, B’nai Amoona, Traditional • David and Roz Hirschhorn, Young Israel, EHA • Melanie and Dan Winograd, EHA, Ladue School, NHBZ • Robert Levine, T.I., JCC, Traditional, N.H.B.Z, Schechter, NCSY • Jerry and Marcia Esrig, Young Israel and U. City Shul, EHA, BYHS • Bob & Judy Hellman, Young Israel/EHA • Michael Sokolik, U. City Shul • Galit Lev-Harir, B’nai Amoona • Alexis Waldman, United Hebrew • Samantha Blackmon, United Hebrew • Emma Wallace, United Hebrew • Lori Stein, B’nai El • Tova Twersky, EHA, BYHS Young Israel • Ilan Davidovici, Agudas Israel • Eric and Amy Wallerstein, B’nai Amoona • Michael Wallerstein, Central Reform Congregation • Sue Weiss, Kol Rinah • Nikoo Raoofian, EHA • Elana Shulkin, EHA, Young Israel • Nathan Waldman, Bais Abraham • Rita Beckerman, B’nai Amoona • Burton D. Garland, Jr., Jewish Federation of St. Louis -- Vice Chair of Community Impact • Lisa Binowitz, Temple Israel, Bnai Amoona (adult bat mitzvah) • Amy Garland, Woman’s Philanthropy, Jewish Federation, Temple Israel Member • Michelle W Goldstein, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion, B’nai Amoona • Richard Goldstein, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Paul Whitson, B’nai Amoona • Debbi Goldstein, Shaare Emeth • Seth Wallerstein, B’nai Amoona • Devorah Reiner, EHA • Victoria Winfrey, United Hebrew • Jon Baris, Bnai Amoona • Akiva Axelbaum, Torah Prep, Aguda • Sharon Thompson, Shaare Emeth • Chaviva Muser, Torah Prep, EMBY • Ovadyah Newman, Torah Prep, U City Shul • Ellie Wainer, JEF, JFS, Shir Chadash board, • Orna Dar, IAC Israeli American Council in St. Louis • Marcela Morgensztern, NHBZ • Daniel Wachsstock, Young Israel • Sara Wachssttock, Young Israel • Howard and Sarah Berk, JCC • Chani Wachsstock, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Bob Kaiser, NHBZ • Gabriel Felsher, Former paratrooper in IDF • Matt Kleiman, B’nai Amoona • Shawn Pernik, BBYO • Fran Reisler, NHBZ • Sara Bilmes, Young Israel • Joel Garbow, Young Israel • Marcie Brook, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Zachary Rosenblatt, B’nai Amoona, Kol Rinah, USY, JSU, IgniteYP • Joel Portman, Kol Rinah, Ignite YP, Jewish Federation • Howard Oppenheimer, EHA, Young Israel, Yeshivat Kadimah, BYHS • Davita Rosenbloom, Solomon Schechter, Block Yeshiva High School, Young Israel, made aliyah • Meira Wachsstock, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov and Young Israel • Jane Sherman, Shaare Emeth

• Nathan and Linda Cohen, St. Louis AIPAC Co Chairs • Menachem Tendler, BHH Shaarei Chesed • Jennifer Hartranft, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Amy Feit, NHBZ • Charlene Kass, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Andy Brown, Temple Emanuel, JCC, Camp Sabra, Camp Baer, URJ Youth Division, NFTY Mo Valley, CRC • Shirley Axelbaum, U. City High School, Torah Prep, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Devy Goldenberg, Shaving Israel • Moshe Glazer, Torah Prep • Robin Gutmann, Temple Israel • Yevgeniy Vorobeychik, Young Israel and Agudas Israel.

• Charisse Treisman, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Deborah Finland, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Eytan Rodin, Tpheris Israel Chevra Kadisha • Dr. Ervin Y. Rodin, B’nai Amoona • Mitch Podolsky, Kol Rinah • Jeremy Rovinsky, JSU • Nachi Winter, St. Louis Community Member • Justine Valdivia, Friend of JSU, St. Louis • Lavi Valdivia, U. City Shul • Lee Goodman, Young Israel • Lyle Weisman, U City Shul • Chaim Treisser, U City Shul • Joseph Kavanaugh, Kol Rinah • Cheryl Perlmutter, B’nai Amoona • Keith and Karen Zeff, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Rabbi Z. Sionit, Sephardic Torah Center of Dallas • Jenna Grunfeld, Young Israel • David Weinstein, Congregation Shaaray Tefilah • Eliana Jessica Emery, University City Shul member • Cindy Liebson, CRC • Bruce Weingart, United Hebrew • Polina Vorobeychik, Agudas, Young Israel, Torah Prep, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Ira Wurem, Jewish Education Program of Long Island, NY • Mike Perkins, Chabad • Barbara Senders Ast, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Martin Ast, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Chana Winter, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Rene’ Price, Young Israel Synagogue • Hilton Price MD, Young Israel Synagogue • Chava Weiman, U City Shul • Rivka Jacobs, Torah Prep, U City Shul, Agudas Israel • Aviva Raskas, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Alan Gerson, Young Israel • Debra Cherrick, Congregation Adas Bnei Yisroel • Louis Goldman, B’nai Amoona; Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Alfred Cherrick, Young Israel • Yehoshua Anton, Torah Prep • Aryeh Anton, Torah Prep • Rochel Sentell, Agudath Israel/Torah Prep • Ron and Bette Abeles, Kol Rinah • Rachel Usprich, U City Shul • Menachem & Debbie Graff, BSKI, St Louis Kollel, Agudas Yisroel • Sarah Beth Matt, Solomon Schechter Day School • Tzvi Kupfer, JSU • Bruce Frank, Bnai Amoona • Barbara Green, MD, B’nai Amoona • Marilyn Levison, Traditional Congregation, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School • Deborah Schuman, Young Israel • Marty Levison, Traditional Congregation, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School • Rabbi Max Weiman, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Vaad Hoeir, Aish HaTorah, KME • Mimi Fiszel, NHBZ, St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum • Alayna Higdon, Marquette High School, JSU, NCSY • Judy Weintraub, Young Israel • Rachel Shapiro, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Cathy Goldsticker, Temple Israel • Monty Mazer, Young Israel and Epstein Hebrew Academy • Janet Weinberg, Young Israel, Bais Abraham • Stan Biel, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Young Israel • Michael Zitin, NCSY • Roberta Gornish, Young Israel • Jada Fox, Kol Rinah, Solomon Schechter Alumni, BBYO • Esther Levay, Agudas Israel • Susan Feigenbaum, NHBZ • Ariel Ross, NCSY • Lisa Gottlieb-Cytron, United Hebrew

• Lauren Murov, Shaare Emeth, Camp Sabra, Deutsch Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel • Paul Kodner, BSKI, Kol Rinah, Solomon Schechter Day School, JSU, Hillel, Chabad, USY, NCSY, Camp Ben Frankel, Camp JORI, • Celia Ringermacher Fox, Nusach Hari, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Claudia Hearst, B’nai Amoona • Jill M Mogil, Ladue High School, Completed college and graduate school, JSU Advocate, STS Advocate • Rachel Prero, Former NCSY City Director • Seth Sherman, Shaare Emeth • Brian Emery, U. City Shul • Don Eisenberg, Share Emeth Sunday School, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion Member, Former Board Member Aish Hatorah and JFCS • Ruby Jackoby, Yeshivat Kadimah High School • Enid Weisberg-Frank, B’nai Amoona • Drs. Jackie and Craig Reiss, Tpheris Israel • Michael D Rosenblatt, B’nai Amoona • Carol Selkin Wise, Past Education Director, BSKI • Mike Rovinsky, Jewish Student Union • Ariella Rovinsky, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Bonita Planells, U City Shul • Malgorzata Krych-Goldberg, Bais Abe • Joshua Goldmeier, Epstein Hebrew Academy, and Block Yeshiva High School • Michael Gildmeier, Columbus Torah Academy, Young Israel, University, City synagogue • Bradley Goldmeier, Cooper Yeshiva High School • Richard M. Wise, U. City Shul member • Adam Goldmeier, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Gary Q. Goldmeier, U. City Shul • Ahuva David, Aish HaTorah • Greg Lazerwitz, B’nai Amoona Religious School graduate, B’nai Amoona member, Jewish Community Center employee • Eric Goldmeier, Epstein, Hebrew Academy, Block Yeshiva High School, Camp Stone • Linda Rigden, United Hebrew • William Goldmeier, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Camp Stone • Maureen Axelbaum, Young Israel, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Whitney Smith, Temple Israel • Daniel Kamins, Beth Medrash Hagadol Congregation • Isaac Bierman, JSU • Yisrael Frank, TICK • Zvi Feigenbaum, Chabad • Rabbi Chaim Bogopulsky, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Shelley Dean, B’nai Amoona • Nechama Bogopulsky, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Daniel Anton, Agudas Israel, U. City Shul • Moshe Florans, Torah Prep • Hindy (Gertzulin) Anton, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Agudas Israel • Marian S. Gordon, Traditional Congregation of Creve Coeur • Jay Pepose, NHBZ • Chaim Stobezki, Young Israel • Netta Silverstein, NCJW • Zahava Faigel Howley, Torah Prep • Jacob Berry, B’nai Amoona • Cheryl Epstein, Ohr HaTorah • Shmuel Lynn, MTI • Serralesa Ivener, Kol Rinah • Nancy Planells, United Hebrew • Judye Dubelman, B’nai Amoona • Salvador Planells, Clayton High School /Indiana University • Anna Sher, Ladue • Sam Dubelman, B’nai Amoona • Andrea Rosenblum, Kol Rinah • Julie Scherck, Temple Emanuel • Dikla Roufa, Traditional Congregation • Marni Lerer, TICK, EHA • Stephen Roufa, Traditional Congregation • Danielle Smason, JSU • Sam Goodman, JSU • Esther Klein, Agudath Israel of St. Louis • Steve Goldberg, Tpheris Israel Chevra Kadisha • Leonard H Flaks, Vaad Hoeir of St. Louis • Wendy Goldberg, Tpheris Israel Chevra Kadisha • D’Vorah Miller, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Alberto Cozer, UCity Shul • Karen Cozer, UCity Shul • Tamar (Garbow) Shulman, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Young Israel

• Morissa Pepose, Traditional Congregation, Ramot Amoona, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion, JCRC Student to Student program, Ramah Seminar in Israel, Brandeis University Magna cum Laude • Mayer Klein, Agudas Israel • Miryam Miller, H.F. Epstein Hebrew Academy • Lisa Lipsitz, Bnai Amoona • Jonathan Yasinev, EHA, MTI, NHBZ, Aguda, U. City Shul, NCSY… • Rebecca Goldman, B’nai Amoona, Nusah Hari • Christina Blankenship, Clayton High School • Irl Solomon, Shaving Israel • Myra Solomon, Shaving Israel • Michael Grafman, U City Shul • Alice Ludmer, Temple Israel • Alan Ludmer, Temple Israel • Shira Boyer, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Randy Canis, B’nai Amoona • Rachel Persellin-Armoza, B’nai Amoona, Mirowitz School, Solomon Schechter • Stella Vladimirov, NHBZ • Avital Weiman, Epstein Hebrew Acadamy • Simone Picker, Bais Abraham, Young Israel • Harbor Wolff, JSU • Vladimir Kushnir, B’nai Amoona • Dennis Feit, NHBZ • Rabbi & Mrs. Mordechai Magence, Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol • Avrohom Zuckerman, Ohev Shalom S. • Janet Baron, B’nai Amoona • Batya Bogopulsky, Torah Prep • Edward Levitt, NHBZ • Jeanne Golden, Temple Emanuel • Harvey Greenstein, B’nai Amoona • Leah Silberman Bernstein, Meta-Denominational Jew • Jon A. Bierman, Bais Abraham • Ilene Osherow, Central Reform Congregation • Donna Miller, None • Leslie Yoffie, United Hebrew • Jennifer Bierman, Bais Abraham • Chaim Greenwald, U-City Shul • Steve Goldsmith, UH • Menachem Szus, NHBZ • Ellen Backman Stein, Israeli Citizen, former St. Louisan • Esther Wolf, U City Shul • Ezra Wolf, U City Shul • Rabbi Zalman M Stein, Shaare Zedek, Solomon Schechter Day School, Camp Ben Frankel, Jewish Federation of Southern Illinois, Jewish Federation of St. Louis, Block Yeshiva High School, Epstein Hebrew Academy, JCC • Ellen Backman Stein, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Block Yeshiva High School, JCRC Student to Student Advisor, JNF St. Louis President, Shaare Zedek Congregation, Young Israel Congregation, Jewish Federation, JCCA • Ruthy Hersh, Reachout Jewish Educational Services • Benjamin Siwak, CRC, JSU, Student to Student, BBYO, AEPi fraternity, IU Jews in Business Club • Molly Siwak, CRC, Student to Student, JSU, BBYO, Alexander Muss High School in Israel, JNF • Stacy Siwak, CRC, UH, Birthright Foundation Midwest Ambassador, JFNA Fisher Flight alum, JFNA National Young Leadership alum, former JCC exec board, former Federation Women’s Philanthropy board • Greg Siwak, CRC, BSKI, former JCC board chair, former Federation board member, JFNA National Young Leadership Cabinet alum, JFNA Fisher Flight alum, • Rabbi Dan Morris, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Adin Axelbaum, Torah Prep • Noah Oberlander, Young Israel and EHA • Chana Goldman, EHA • Natalie Goldman, Shaare Emeth, congregant, teacher.

Shaare Zedek • Nicholas P Panza, N/A • Ronan Lev, Bnai Amoona • Chaya Manne, JSU, TICK • Irv Bernhardt, U.H. • Elise Lev, Congregation Beth Sholom • Gina Bernstein, Kol Rinah • Rabbi Brad and Mindy Horwitz, Kol Rinah, Jewish Community Center, NCJW, SMJCS • Carl Aschkenasi, Young Israel • Jeffrey Glogower, H.F. Epstein Hebrew Academy • Chaya Muser, Torah Prep • Leslie Sabol, Agudas Israel • David Pernikoff, U City Shul • Jim Greenstein, Bnai Amoona • Daniel Rosenbluth, Traditional Congregation

• Becca Near, The J, EHA, Camp Sabra, Nusach Hari, Young Israel, Kol Rinah ECC, Jewish Federation, NCSY • Stephanie Ruter, EHA • Rosanne Hecht, Chabad • Yoseph Florans, Agudath Israel • Jay Umansky, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Jeff Levison, NCSY • Larry & Lynne Steinman, Past President United Hebrew • Jackie Gerson, Young Israel • Eduard Pernik, NHBZ • Karen Shawn, Young Israel • Keith Breiman, Congregation Brothers of Israel, Long Branch, NJ • Earl and Faye Newman, KINs Chicago • Debbie Garbow, Young Israel, Solomon Schechter teacher and administrator for 28 years • Chavivah Miller, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Sarah Cohen, Solomon Schechter Day School • William Moskowitz, Congregation Kehillat Yisroel • Breindy Greengart, Agudas Israel, JCRC, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, Torah Prep Girls School of St. Louis • Barbara L Poger, Young Israel • Zach Taylor, CJV • Andrey Podorozhansky, Block Yeshiva High School • Bud Rosenbaum, Shaving Israel • Lawrence M Poger, Young Israel • Sabrina Gornish, Young Israel • Zachary Hearst, Bnei Amoona • David Goldmeier, MD, B’nai Amoona • Fran Cantor, B’nai Amoona, Supporter of the Jewish People through various organizations • Michelle Fidell, Temple Israel • Michael Kapnick., Shaarie Torah.

• Stephanie Arnold, Ohev Shalom of Bucks County • Miriam David, Aish Hatorah • Spencer Rosenblum, Tulane University, Kol Rinah • Loren Ettinger, Kol Rinah • Beth Higdon, United Hebrew • Jay Kirschbaum, United Hebrew, JCC • Tali Rothstein, Past: Kadima, EHA, Young Israel. Current: NYHS Seattle, Mercaz Seattle • Sharlene Eckert Toybes, United Hebrew • Patti Kirschbaum, United Hebrew • Warren Long, None • Linda Koenig, Temple Israel, Sar El • Patti Wolkowitz, B’nai Amoona • Paul E. Flotken, Multiple • Cheri Rich, Traditional Congregation • Uri Krieger, Not affiliated • Adam Steinman, United Hebrew • Mark Steven Seigel, NHBZ — St. Louis / Senior Kollel • Betty Rosenbaum, Temple Israel • Daniel Fidell, Temple Israel • Judith Isaacs, Bnai Amoona • Ted Isaacs, Bnai Amoona • Sophie Isaacs, Bnai Amoona • Emily Isaacs, Bnai Amoona • Barry Needle, Young Israel • Joseph Rovinsky, Crossroads College Preparatory School, JSU NCSY • Hessie Needle, Young Israel • Amy Cantor, Bnai Amoona • Bruce Waxman, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion, Aish St. Louis, Chabad St. Charles, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Bnai Amoona • Faith Greenberg Waxman, Temple Israel, B’nai Amoona, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion, BBYO, NFTY, Aish HaTorah • Richard Kofkoff, JSU • Susan Kofkoff, JSU • Sheryl Levine, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Jackie Oppenheimer, Young Israel, EHA, BYHS, Yeshivat Kadima, CAJE, T’pheris Israel, Shaare Tehillim, Brith Shalom, Mishkan Israel • Carol Levy Charles, Temple Israel • Bernard Charles, Temple Israel • Eldad Bialecki, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community Day School • Danielle Bialecki, Saul Mirowitz, Nusach Hari • Shira Greenwald, Torah Prep Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, UCity Shul • Karen Hartstein, Bnai Amoona, United Hebrew, Aleph Institute • Sandra Greenberg, Bnai Amoona, NHBZ • Marvin Greenberg, Bnai Amoona, NHBZ • Avigail Davidovits, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov, Agudas Israel • Shlomo Levine

• Michal Pudles, EHA and BYHS • Alex Pudles, Agudas Israel • Joseph Esrig, Young Israel • Kenneth E. Levin, B’nai Amoona, Bais Abraham • Chaim and Devorah Edelstein, Agudas Israel • Sheara Fredman, Epstein Hebrew Academy and TICK Synagouge • Ari Levy, Traditional Congregation • Vicki Redler Chervitz, United Hebrew, Camp Herzl, Young Israel • Richard Cohen, Shaare Emeth • Elizabeth Kline, Young Israel • Dana Emmenegger, Kol Rinah, Shaare Zedek, BSKI, CAJE, Jewish Federation and YPD • Amy Brickel, Young Israel • Hadassah Cohen, Epstein Hebrew Academy/Yeshivat Kadimah • Tzipora Brickel, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Tuviya Brickel, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Netanel Brickel, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Joshua Brickel, Young Israel • Benjamin Zeff, Young Israel / Clayton High School • William Shultz, B’nai Amoona • Sarah Kim Margolis, MD, Bais Abraham • Michael Rauchman, Bais Abraham • Linda Weinstein, B’nai Amoona • Rabbi Naftali Rothstein, Yeshivat Kadimah High School • Carole A Simon, B’Nai Amoona • Arza Sheffy-Raviv, N/A • Harvey Cantor, B’Nai Amoona, JFS, Camp Sabra, Jewish Federation • Mark Wallman, NHBZ • Tony, Carole and Joey Granillo, NHBZ • Clifford Chelist, Bnai Amoona • April Emerick, Bais Abe • Brian, Bnai Amoona • Joseph Applebaum, United Hebrew • Alexandra Eisenstein, Temple Israel of Hollywood • Lawrence R. Brown, Torah Prep • Norman Gold, Bnai Amoona • Julia Kofkoff, Temple Israel • Daniel T. Sullivan, DDS, NA ... But happily married into a Jewish family, and in full agreement with the conclusions of the letter.

• Paul and Fran Kravitz, AJC • Geoffrey Solomon, Temple Beth El (Boca Raton, Florida), Temple Shaare Emeth (St. Louis), BBYO/AZA (St. Louis) • Myles Bogner, B’nai Amoona • Michaela Bogner, B’nai Amoona • Stuart Bogner, Central Reform Congregation • Arthur and Ellen Hartz, Bais Abraham • Helene J. Shermran, United Hebrew • Irwin M Fredman, NHBZ • Ron Iken, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Shaare Zedek • Elliott Franklin, Young Israel • Gabriella Berlin, Block Yeshiva High School, Tipheres Israel Chevra Kadisha • Nancy Stein, B’nai Amoona, Aish HaTorah • Yelena Fish, Aish HaTorah • Laura Abramson-Pritchard, Young Israel Denver • Dafna Kadan, JCC/ Mirowitz school • Jacob Murov, JCC • Betty Sonnenwirth Ozar MD, Agudas Israel, Block Yeshiva High School • Rabbi Shimshon Gewirtz, MTI / TICK • Yaakov Pianko, MTI • Mordechai Goldman, MTI • Shmuel Winter, MTI; TICK • Ari Richmond, Missouri Torah Institute and Tiferes Israel Chevra Kedisha • Barry Roufa, Shaare Emeth • Avraham Rosenblum, MTI • Alan S. Nemes, Bais Abraham • Stephen Siegel, Temple Emanuel • Calev Kornblum, MTI • Christine Horning, Unaffiliated • David Wallace, United Hebrew • Barry Yoffie, United Hebrew • Shirley Axelbaum, Shaare Zedek • Larry N Lipsitz, Bnai Amoona • Jesse David Appleton, Shaare Emeth • Dovid Goldman, Missouri Torah Institute • Mordy Zachai, MTI, TICK • Yosef Elisha Friedman, TICK, Torah Prep, MTI • Neri Harris, Missouri Torah Institute • Michael A. Ellenhorn, B’nai Amoona • Andy Greeenberg, Miriam

• Lisa Greening, Central Reform Congregation • Richard Goldenhersh, Agudas Achim Beth Israel • Sam Zitin, JSU, NCSY, Young Israel • Shoshana Kramer, Orlando Torah Center • Zevi Strimber, MTI • Jerry Goldenberg, Shaving Israel • Lolle Boettcher, Shaving Israel • Judy Plocker, United Hebrew B’nai Amoona • Shmuel Rosenzweig, Missouri Torah Institute • Gavin Kornblum, Missouri Torah Institute, Epstein Hebrew Academy, U-City Shul, B’nei Akiva, Junior NCSY, Troop 11 and many Jewish Summer Camps including the JCC. • Akiva Lynn, MTI • Gay Lee Freedman, Agudas Israel • Tzvi Freedman, Torah Prep of St. Louis • Richard Wieder, United Hebrew • Leib Smason, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Block Yeshiva High School, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion • Gedaliah Levi, Ahavas Torah of Scottsdale, Arizona.

Counseler at Jewish day camp,-Kulanu.

• Richard Fox, United Hebrew • Gabe Salehrabi, Missouri Torah institute, Hillel academy of Denver, East Denver Orthodox Synagogue, Iranian Jewish council of Los Angles • Daniel Dubovick, MTI • Leon Jacobsen, MTI • Dovid Tomaino, MTI • Ahron Olansky, MTI • Eli F Nimchinsky, MTI • Avraham Yeshaya Gordon, MTI • Yehoshua Kramer, MTI • Catherine Wieder, United Hebrew • Larry Jablonow, Bnai Amoona, United Hebrew • Gary Feder, Temple Israel • Alan Raymond, United Hebrew, Jewish War Veterans, • Larry Goldman, Shaare Emeth • Tammi Laiderman, United Hebrew • Robert Wieder, United Hebrew • Yosef Meth, MTI • Sammy Richmond, MTI • Daniel Wieder, Mizzou • Shmuel Miller, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Danielle Jackoby, Yeshivat Kadimah High School • Elissa Schachter, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Young Israel • Paul Gallant, B’nai Amoona • Sarah Glickfield, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Eugene and Irina Pinchuk, Yeshiva ohr elchonon of Los Angeles • Julia Blumenthal, Chabad of Montclair, NJ • Aviva Silberstein, Former EHA parent and former Bais Abraham member • Janet W. Haber, NHBZ • Meira Yocheved Levison, Yashivat Kadima High School/U City Shul • Rabbi Yaakov Berkowitz, St. Louis Kollel • Jonathan Fruchter, EHA • Amiad Fredman, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Jacob Levy, Young Israel • Yael Levy, Epstein • C. Heyden, MTI • Naftali Staum, Epstein Hebrew Academy (EHA), Torah Prep Boys School, Missouri Torah Institute (MTI), Tipheres Israel Chevra Kadisha (TICK) • Ephraim Holman, Missouri Torah Institute • Binyamin Wittlin, Denver Academy of Torah, Missouri Torah Institute, Young Israel of Denver • Yehoshua Herschel Bugay, Missouri Torah Institute • Shaul Yecheskel, U City Shul • Daniel Shanker, Yeshivat Kadimah High School/Epstein Hebrew Academy • Jeff Grunfeld, Young Israel • Rabbi Dov Nimchinsky, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Hanford Gross, Kol Rinah • Carol Kent, Congregation Beth Ahm Michigan • Estee Rosen, Torah Prep, U City Shul • Betsy Zimbalist, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Norma Rubin, Nusach Hari Bnai Zion • Yosef Margolese, MTI • Daur Nodari, Block Yeshiva • Yitzy Wasser, MTI • Yossi Richmond, MTI • Caroline Goldenberg, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Charles Deutsch, U City Shul, Torah Prep • Ezra Friedman, Yeshivat Kadimah High School • Judy Shapiro, TICK

• Maayan Shapiro, TICK • Michael Shapiro, TICK • Eliana Nodari, Yeshivat Kadimah • Anna Nodari, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Baruch Shaya Kaufman, Sha’arei Tzedek • Harav Koenig, MTI • Mordechai Schwab, RIETS • Julia Lifits • Natalya Rukhman, Unaffiliated • Shulamit Yecheskel, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Terri Schnitzer, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Beverly Kent Goldenberg, Many • Rachel Snyder Klein, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Lewis Notowich, AZA • Rabbi Moshe Shulman, Young Israel of St. Louis • Rachael Kornblum, Torah Prep, U City Shul, Aish HaTorah • Hanoch Vilnai, Israeli Scouts • Michael Schachter, Young Israel, Traditional Congregation, Camp Ben Frankel, EHA (parent) • Steven Missler, UCity Shul • Joelle Fredman, Young Israel • Naomi Ruth Deutsch, UCity Shul • Charles Gross, Unaffiliated • Henach Love, MTI / TICK • Dalia Oppenheimer, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Bais Abraham, Young Israel, JCRC Student-to-Student • Selina E. Rovinsky, Young Israel • Lili Goodman, JSU • Shana Melanie Gordon, Agudas Israel • Sara Bromberg, Aguda • Dov Gordon, Agudas Israel • Naftali Gordon, Agudas Israel • Yisroel Gordon, Torah Prep • Aliza Gordon, Torah Prep • Shani Wexler, Young Israel • Judy Haber, Young Israel • Mickey Ariel, Young Israel / EHA • Leia Rubin, Young Israel • Olga Krayterman, Bethel Zedeck Indianapolis • Noah Kornblum, Missouri Torah Institute, Epstein Hebrew Academy, U-City Shul • Robyn Haspekl, Young Israel, Bais Abraham, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Esther Brown, Torah Prep • Rose Ann Ariel, Young Israel, EHA • Dr Ken Bendik, Epstein • Alissa Rimmon, Epstein • Chana Staum, Tpheres Israel Chevra Kadisha Synagogue • Louise Bortz, Agudas Israel, Young Israel, U City Shul • Devorah Hochstadter, Aguda • Susie Fredman, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Carey Fredman, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Yoni Strashun, Young Israel • Sidney Machefsky, H.F. Epstein Hebrew Academy • Judy Weintraub, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Sara Lieb, Torah Prep • Daniel Fox, B’nai Amoona, United Hebrew • Kathryn Machefsky, Young Israel, H.F. Hebrew Academy • Evan Axelbaum, Young Israel • Tziona Zeffren, Young Israel • Michael Shapiro, Young Israel • Natalie Sukhodolsky, Shaare Emeth, Young Israel • Benji Hamer • Ethan Schuman, Young Israel • Joseph Rube, Young Israel • Pam Machefsky, EHA • Tzipporah Sukhodolsky, Chabad • Ayelet Gottesman, EHA, BYHS, Agudath Israel of St. Louis • Kitty Gross, Kol Rinah • Akiva Manne, TICK • Heschel J Raskas, PhD, Jewish Federation St Louis,Young Israel, JCRC, JFNA • Noach Jacob, MTI • Sheryl Levine, EHA • Morgan Lael Goldson, Chabad • Jake Goldson, BYHS • Lisa Goffstein, NHBZ • Adinah Raskas, AJC, EHA, ADL, JFed, Young Israel • Roberta Gornish, EHA • Mark Israel Gross, Washington University, Young Israel • Shifra Newman, U City Shul • Uri Sukhodolsky, Chabad • Shmuel Zacharia, Missouri Torah Institute • Tziri Winter, T.I.C.K • Michael Gutwein, Bais Abraham • Roberta Gutwein, Bais Abraham • Eva Ashner, United Hebrew • Yomsi Goldish, MTI • David Pollack, Young Israel • Lilly Scharff, Bais Abe, Kol Rinah, Jewish Fund for Human Need, Millstone Fellow

• Aidan Kornblum, Missouri Torah Institute, H.F. Epstein Hebrew Academy and U. City Shul.

• Rabbi Moshe Winter, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Tpheris Israel Chevra Kadisha • Leonid Vladimirov, Nusach Hari B’nai Zion congregation • Akiva Halevy, Missouri Torah Institute • Yitzchak Meir (Bin-Nun), MTI • Dima Galkin, Epstein Hebrew Academy, Young Israel, JCRC Student-to-Student, JCC Summer Camps, St. Louis Hillel, WashU Chabad • Steward Zimbalist, Young Israel & Epstein Hebrew Academy • Dovid Winter, Missouri Torah Institute, Tpheris Israel Chevra Kadisha • Svetlana Tsvizhba, Agudas Israel • Ken Goffstein, Young Israel • Steven Tager, Young Israel St Louis, CSOI - Allentown, PA • Matthew, Mihaela, Ariela, Francesca and Daniel Grad, Young Israel, B’nai Amoona, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Ronnie and Donna Fredman, Young Israel • Moshe Adler, Young Israel • Ruth Schachter-Cohen, Bais Abraham • Yael Klein, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Doni Klein, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Hillel Klein, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Shira Klein, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Josef Rimel, EHA, TICK • Thomas Hardcastle, Unaffiliated • Yoni David, Aish St Louis • Kate Friedman, St. Louis, MO • Daniel Jacobsen, Agudas Israel • Avi Adler, Yeshivat Kadimah High School • Bella Adler, Yeshiva Kadimah High School • Lynn Wallis, Temple Israel • Anne Tager, Congregation Sons of Israel • Michal Greenblatt-Abrams, Agudas Israel/Torah Prep/ Esther Miller Bais Yaakov • Andrea Lyell, Temple Israel • Scott Levine, CRC • Diane S Maier, CRC • Chaim Strausberg, MTI • Aron Mazer, MTI • Rick Grossman, Unaffiliated • Eugenia Lazarov, United Hebrew • Eliyahu Harir, B’nai Amoona • George J. Hruza, Jewish Federation of St. Louis • Stacy Abeles, Kol Rinah • Ellie Cohen, Aish HaTorah St Louis • Leila Redlich, Young Israel, AISH HaTorah, Epstein Hebrew Academy alumni parent • AK, Mirowitz/CRC/EHA • Stan Biel, Young Israel, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Andrey Podorozhansky, None • Courtney Cerulo, Kol Rinah and Bais Abe • Meredith Evangelista, CRC • Jennifer Legrand, Aish St. Louis • Kevin Legrand, AISH St. Louis • Mia Mandel, Shaare Emeth • Avi Smason, Torah Prep • Boruch Smason, EHA, JSU, NCSY, JCRC • Erin Richter, Bais Abraham, Chabad • David Grafman, United Hebrew • Brian Glazer, Camp Sabra; Agudas Israel • Chiyya Smason, EHS, BLOCK, NHBZ • Ari Lefton, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Dr. Debra Fink, Agudas Israel • Linda Rubin, Aish HaTorah, United Hebrew, BBYO • Anna Soyfer, UCity Shul • Elisheva Heit, U City Shul • Richard Woolf, NHBZ, JCRC, SLIC • Shlomit Goren, NHBZ • Alexander Sukhodolsky, Shaare Emeth, JCC, BBYO, NCSY, Chabad • David Rubin, Young Israel Synagogue, Epstein Hebrew Academy • Harvey M. Tettlebaum • Chani Smason, Torah Prep / Bais Yaakov • Andrea Newstead, Shaare Emeth, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School • Rebecca Nelson-Zoole, Central Reform Congregation • Leslie Gitel, NHBZ • Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham, B’nai Amoona • Susan Dean, Synagogue • Charles Philip Dean, Synagogue • Rabbi Ze’ev Smason, Coalition for Jewish Values

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2024 winter

PHOTO: JJ BE LOVELY PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF THE MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM

ute set by the band in a casual setting, with doors at 6:30 p.m. and the show at 7:30.

Tickets are available at eventbrite.com as a “pay what you can” donation.

Salvaged architectural elements from landmark buildings, residential homes and neighborhood institutions built in St. Louis between 1840 and 1950 are on display through Feb. 4 at “Urban Archaeology: Lost Buildings of St. Louis,” at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. For details, see pulitzerarts.org

Soccer Fans: Through Feb. 18, you still have time to score a look at “Soccer City” at the Missouri History Museum, a free exhibit that explores the history of the sport in St. Louis, including “amateur and professional teams, victories and defeats and periods of struggle and astounding upsets.” Check it out at mohistory.org/exhibits/soccer-city Revel in the vibrancy of Ellsworth Kelly’s art, on display through April 7 on the South Terrace and in Roxanne H. Frank Galleries 255 and 257 at the St. Louis Art Museum.

Admission is free. Expect “paintings, sculpture, drawings and prints” that showcase Kelly’s work from six decades. For more information, see slam.org/exhibitions/ellsworth-kelly Almost any Wednesday, the Kranzberg Arts Foundation “celebrates St. Louis’ jazz legacy and future” at the Wednesday Night Jazz Jam. Free, family-friendly and led by host Bob DeBoo (the jazz bassist for the 442s), this weekly gathering “brings jazz within reach for people of all ages and backgrounds” from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Dark Room, 3610 Grandel Square. See kranzbergartsfoundation.org/calendar/ Season 47 at The Black Rep opens Jan. 10 with the world premiere of Paul Webb’s “Hold On!” The inspiration for the award-winning 2014 feature film “Selma,”

stljewishlight.org

At left, the ‘Soccer City’ exhibit is open at the Missouri History Museum through Feb. 18.

Continued from page 1

Dominic Chambers’ “Birthplace,” his first museum exhibition in his hometown of St. Louis, is on display at the Contemporary Art Museum through Feb. 11. Chambers’ vibrant paintings “engage art historical models, such as color field painting, gestural abstraction and surrealism.” See camstl.org

JEWISH LIGHT

Below, the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Orchid Show is Jan. 27 through Feb. 25.

FILE PHOTO

Webb’s play explores the conflict between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Lyndon Baines Johnson. The show runs through Jan. 28 at Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For performance times and ticket prices, see theblackrep.org/season-47 See comedian “John Mulaney in Concert” Jan. 12-13 in a phone-free event at the Fox Theatre. Maybe you’ve seen Mulaney — a two-time Emmy and Writers Guild of America award-winning writer, actor, and comedian — on Netflix, on “Saturday Night Live” or on Broadway. Tickets range from $57.50 to $152.50. For tickets, go to fabulousfox.com Take the St. Louis Symphony’s “detour through jazz-mad Europe” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center, featuring clarinetist Victor Goines, president of Jazz St. Louis. Expect music from Stravinsky’s “Ebony Concerto,” Weill’s “The Threepenny Opera” and Gershwin’s “An American in Paris.” Tickets cost $15. Leonard Slatkin conducts. See shop.slso. org/7758/7725 See Giacomo Puccini’s “Manon Lescaut” at Winter Opera St. Louis Jan. 19 and 21 at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. The opera is about the tragic love affair between the young nobleman Des Grieux and the beautiful but ambitious Manon Lescaut, and “Puccini’s masterful composition brings to life the tragic tale of love, sacrifice and the

fragility of human desires.” Tickets range from $45-$65. See winteroperastl.org/ manonlescaut/ Wee ones may thrill to “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live: King for a Day,” on stage at 4 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Stifel Theatre. Expect Daniel, O the Owl, Miss Elaina, Katerina Kittycat, Prince Wednesday and more.

Tickets cost $28-$78. See stifeltheatre.com/ events/detail/daniel-tigers-neighborhood-live-2 Hello, Gorgeous! Whether you know every song (and in your mind, you hear you-knowyou singing it) from “Funny Girl” or you’re only vaguely aware of the story, gather up people who need people and see the legendary show Jan. 23-Feb.4 at the Fox Theatre. Tickets range from $29-$95. See fabulousfox.com Grammy-award winner Elvis Costello and his band, the Imposters, pull into the The Factory in Chesterfield on Jan. 26 for an 8 p.m. show that features Charlie Sexton as the opener. Tickets, from $79.50 to $124.50, are available at ticketmaster.com On Jan. 27, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra hosts Jewish Community Night with SLSO at 7:30 p.m. at Stifel Theatre. The symphony will perform music by Albert Roussel and Sergei Prokofiev as Grégoire Pont’s animation and the short film version of “Peter and the Wolf” are played on the big screen. An intermission gathering and a post-concert champagne toast with SLSO

Music Director Stéphane Denève is hosted by Jewish Federation of St. Louis, the Jewish Light and the Jewish Community Center.

Jewish Community Night is sponsored by Michael Staenberg and the Staenberg Family Foundation. To purchase tickets (or to RSVP for those who already have tickets to the show), see jfedstl.org/slso The annual Orchid Show, which showcases hundreds of blooming plants, will be on display from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 27-Feb. 25 in the Emerson Conservatory at the Jack C.

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Soar to new heights in this acrobatic and theat“RUGGED GRANDEUR, rical experience!

JEWISH LIGHT

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January 10, 2024

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SUPERIOR STORYTELLING...”

– DAILY HERALD

The St. Louis Art Museum presents the exhibit ‘Matisse and the Sea’ from Feb. 17 to May 12, including ‘Bathers with a Turtle,’ part of the museum’s permanent collection.

IMAGE © 2013 SUCCESSION H. MATISSE / ARTISTS RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK.

Taylor Visitor Center’s Emerson Conservatory at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The show is included with general admission, which you can learn more about at missouribotanicalgarden.org.

FEBRUARY Be a hero to the kids or grandkids — take them to see Mirabel, Moana, Maui, Elsa, Ariel, Belle and Rapunzel, all skating into town Feb. 1-4 for the Disney On Ice show “Find Your Hero” at Enterprise Center. Ticket prices vary depending on performance times and dates. See enterprisecenter.com One of these nights — Feb. 6, to be exact — the Eagles will bring their “The Long Goodbye Final Tour” to Enterprise Center, with Steely Dan billed as the special guest.

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $145 and then rise considerably, should you want to take it to the limit (Sorry/Not Sorry).

See enterprisecenter.com.

Billed as an “acrobatic and theatrical spectacle,” “Moby Dick” is on the Mainstage Feb. 6-25 at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis.

David Catlin has adapted and directed Herman Melville’s masterpiece with a little help from The Actors Gymnasium. Tickets cost $30-$90. See repstl.org Up for celebrating Mardi Gras? If you’re 25 or older, hear The Playadors at 8 p.m. Feb. 8 or Samba Bom at 8 p.m. Feb. 9, both at Joe’s Café & Art Gallery at 6014 Kingsbury. Tickets cost $20 in advance. See eventbrite.com/o/ joes-cafe-32872643945

tion in the country of “Hugh Hayden: American Vernacular,” from Feb. 10 through May 12 in the Whitaker Gallery inside the Aronson Fine Arts Center. The exhibition explores a decade of Hayden’s work in a variety of mediums and includes newly commissioned works. Admission is free. For hours, see laumeiersculpturepark.org/

performed at the loretto hilton center

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra performs Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” Feb. 17-18 at the Stifel Theatre. “Orff’s work charts the course of fate with songs of joy, love and celebration,” and here’s the theater’s prediction: “Right from its famous opening notes…

‘Carmina Burana’ shakes the Stifel to its foundation.” Ticket prices vary by performance. See stifeltheatre.com “Matisse and the Sea,” the first exhibition to examine the significance of the sea across Modernist artist Henri Matisse’s career, opens Feb. 17 and runs through May 12 at the St. Louis Art Museum. Expect “paintings, sculptures, paper cut-outs, drawings, prints, ceramics and textiles.” Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students and $6 for children. See slam.org/exhibitions/ matisse-and-the-sea/ Now celebrating its 60th season, St. Louis Classical Guitar presents Michael Poll at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 in the Pillsbury Theatre at the 560 Music Center. A conductor and classical guitarist, Poll has performed across North Continued on following page

Moonstone Theatre Company presents “The Sound Inside,” by Adam Rapp, a two-character play about a Yale creative writing professor and her brilliant yet enigmatic student, at the Robert J. Reim Theater in Kirkwood Feb. 5-22. Tickets ($15-$40) are available at moonstonetheatrecompany.com

scan for ticket details

St. Louis Actors’ Studio welcomes the new year with Michael Frayn’s “Copenhagen,” a compelling play about German physicist Werner Heisenberg’s trip in 1941 to meet with Niels Bohr, Heisenberg’s Danish counterpart. The show opens Feb. 9 and runs through Feb. 25 at the Gaslight Theatre. For tickets, see stlas.org/whats-on-stage/ Celebrating its 40 th year, Laumeier Sculpture Park will offer the first presenta-

february 6 – february 25 -

MAJOR PRODUCTION SPONSOR Cast, MOBY DICK ,Photography by Liz Lauren.

Photograph courtesy of Lookingglass Theatre Company.

Michael Poll

REPSTL.ORG/MOBYDICK

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January 10, 2024

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JEWISH LIGHT

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2024 winter Ailey II’s Meagan King and Patrick Gamble in Elizabeth Roxas-Dobrish’s ‘mediAcation.’ Dance St. Louis presents Ailey II in St. Louis on March 1 and 2.

America, South America and Europe. Tickets cost $35, with discounts for seniors, students and military personnel. See stlclassicalguitar.org

PHOTO: DANICA PAULOS

Want to see a real legend at work? The run, don’t walk, to get tickets for cabaret star Marilyn Maye when she performs for two nights, Feb. 22&23, at 7:30 p.m., at The Sheldon presented by the Cabaret Project of St. Louis. This showbiz icon has been performing for over 75 years, was a favorite singer of Ella Fitzgerald and TV great Johnny Carson, who called her “super singer.”

Tickets, at metrotix.com, run from $44-$56.

Diane Schuur, the Grammy Awardwinning contemporary jazz vocalist, shares songs and stories at 8 p.m. Feb. 23 at Lindenwood University’s J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts. For tickets ($25-$55), see www.lindenwood.edu/j-scheidegger- centerfor-the-arts/ Comedian Lewis Black and his trademark rants will take center stage at The Factory in Chesterfield for an 8 p.m. show on Feb. 23.

Tickets, ranging from $39 to $69, are available at ticketmaster.com World-renowned guitarist/vocalist John Pizzarelli shares the stage with Catherine Russell, one of the great interpreters of American popular song at 8 p.m. Feb. 24 at The Sheldon. Tickets range from $40-$50, with a discount for students. See metrotix.com Hear songwriter Matt Andersen (blues/ folk/rock) at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Blue Strawberry, 364 N. Boyle. Expect some tunes from “The Big Bottle of Joy,” his latest album.

Tickets cost $25-$30. See https://bluestrawberrystl.com Here comes “Company” — and though “Bobby” is now “Bobbie,” the rest of Stephen Sondheim’s blockbuster musical (winner of five Tony Awards and rave reviews) remains the same. See the show Feb. 27-March 10 at the Fox Theatre. Tickets range from $29-$95. For show times and tickets, see fabulousfox.com

MARCH The Arianna String Quartet will perform at 7:30 p.m. March 1 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center. The program includes Schubert’s “Quartet G Minor, D.173, Trevor Weston’s “Juba (2017) and Dvorak’s “Viola Quintet in E-flat Major, Op.97” with

Ivo-Jan van der Werff on viola. For tickets, see umsl.edu/touhill/ Dance St. Louis brings “Ailey II” with their “off-the-charts energy” to the Touhill Performing Arts Center for performances March 1 and 2. (A pre-show talk by Dance St. Louis artistic director Michael Uthoff starts at 6:30 in the Terrace Lobby.) Tickets cost $45-$75. See dancestlouis.org/ailey-ii March 1 through 3, savor “Art in Bloom,” the St. Louis Art Museum’s annual celebration of flowers and fine art. Displays by regional florists will interpret dozens of works from the museum’s collection through creative botanical designs. For information on the exhibit, special ticketed events, related family activities, dining and shopping, see slam.org/event/art-in-bloom-2024/ Winter Opera St. Louis will present “Naughty Marietta” March 1 and 3 at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. The operetta, composed by Victor Herbert with a libretto by Rida Johnson Young, is set in colonial-era New Orleans and follows the spirited Marietta in her attempt to escape an arranged marriage. For more information, see winteroperastl.org/naughtymarietta/ Melissa Manchester’s music keeps the beat in “Sweet Potato Queens,” an “outrageous, high-powered, Southern rock musical that tells the true story of ‘Boss Queen’ Jill and her

closest friends in Mississippi, and how they learn to grab life by the sequins, feathers and tiaras to live their lives out loud, on their own terms.” (Phew!) See New Line Theatre’s production March 2-25 at the Marcelle Theater in Grand Center. Tickets, from $20 to $30, are available at metrotix.com

is “On Earth,” five artists’ meditations on the concept of land that “address parallels between our treatment of the natural environment and the people who inhabit it.” Both exhibits run through Aug. 4. For more information, see pulitzerarts.org/

Season 32’s fan favorite Harry Jowsey will perform at “Dancing with the Stars Live 2024” on stage at 8 p.m. March 5 at the Stifel Theatre.

The show will “heat up this winter with a dazzling, sexy, high energy, brand-new live production,” say the backers. Tickets range from $36.50-$76.50. See ticketmaster.com

Though we don’t talk about Bruno, we do love the music from the show, and look forward to “Encanto in Concert” at 2 p.m.

March 9-10 at the Stifel Theatre. Hear the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra perform “the film’s magical, chart-topping soundtrack” live. Tickets range from $47 to $77. See stifeltheatre.com

Midnight Company, now in its 26th year, will present two shows in March at the Blue Strawberry, 364 North Boyle Ave. At 7:30 p.m. March 6 and 20, see Eileen Engel and company founder Joe Hanrahan in “Movie Music,” which promises songs, stories and scenes from the “best movies of all time.” At 7:30 p.m. March 13 and 27, hear Eileen Engel in the tuneful “Jacey’s Jazz Joint,” which Hanrahan penned. For tickets, see bluestrawberrystl.com/ or call 314-256-1745.

Born in Tel Aviv and raised on Long Island (is there a joke here?), Modi went to work as an investment banker until his first open-mic night made him realize that stand-up was his true calling. Check him out when he brings his “Know Your Audience Tour” to The Sheldon at 8 p.m. on March 13. Tickets, available at thesheldon.org, go from $60-$75.

Modi will be donating a portion of his tour proceeds to various charities focusing on bringing relief to the people of Israel.

Two exhibitions that “address the complex and vital relationships between humankind and the land” open March 8 at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. One is Bogota-based Delcy Morelos’ “Interwoven,” a display of drawings, paintings and sculptures that have never been exhibited in the U.S. The second

Anti-miscegenation laws, family racism, community disapproval and the long-buried feelings of a Black seamstress and her white lover are explored in “Wedding Band” by Alice Childress. The story takes place in the Deep South at the end of World War I during the flu epidemic. The Black Rep’s production

ROBERT G. REIM THEATRE IN THE KIRKWOOD COMMUNITY CENTER

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION, VISIT MOONSTONETHEATRECOMPANY.COM

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Page 17

Comedian Modi visits The Sheldon on March 13. Born in Tel Aviv, but raised in the U.S., Modi will donate a portion of the proceeds to charities focusing on bringing relief to the people of Israel. part of the show, but costumes are encouraged for theater patrons. (Where is my tiara?)

Tickets range from $29.50-$109.50. See fabulousfox.com/events/detail/disney-princess

runs March 13-31 at the Berges Theatre at COCA. For performance times and ticket prices, see theblackrep.org/season-47 Don’t wait to score tickets to “An Evening with Peter Sagal,” set for 8 p.m. March 15 at The Sheldon. He’s a humorist and writer and the popular radio host of “Wait, Wait ... Don’t Tell Me.” Tickets cost $62.50-$102.50. See metrotix.com/events/detail/peter-sagal Hear Denise Thimes with the Jazz St. Louis Big Band in four shows March 15-16 at Jazz St. Louis’ Harold and Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz, 3536 Washington Ave. Though Thimes “has drawn comparisons to Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, and all those who came before her, she possesses a voice that’s uniquely her own.” Heck, did you know Aretha Franklin chose Thimes to perform for the Queen of Soul’s 72nd birthday celebration? For tickets, see my.jazzstl.org/2173 Gather up the kids or grandkids! Broadway stars will take the stage March 16 in “Disney Princess — The Concert,” singing princess songs, hero songs and villain songs at the Fox Theatre. No actual Disney characters are

Tracy Letts’ formidable dark comedy “August: Osage County” will be on stage March 19-April 7 at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis. “Equal parts heartfelt and heart-wrenching, this story gives an in-depth look at what it takes to keep a family together.” Tickets cost $30-$90. See repstl.org.

The New Jewish Theatre brings Arthur Miller’s “All My Sons” to the stage March 21-April 7. Described as “electrifying in its intensity,” the play is the story of men whose machine shop turned out defective parts during the war and how that legacy affected their families. See the show at the Jewish Community Center’s Wool Studio Theater in the Staenberg Family Complex. For single tickets, season tickets or a Flex Pass, call 314442-3283 or see newjewishtheatre.org Born Stuart Leslie Goddard, English singer Adam Ant brings his pop rock ANTMUSIC tour to the Pageant at 8 p.m. on March 21.

Tickets range from $45-$60 and can be gotten at ticketmaster.com. The English Beat opens.

In between concerts in Iowa and Ohio, Tim McGraw’s “Standing Room Only Tour 2024” comes to Enterprise Center at 7 p.m. March 22, with special guest Carly Pearce. Tickets start at $39.75. See enterprisecenter.com Continued on following page

l Specia ricing p t e k tic

Jewish Community Night with your SLSO

Jan 27 Sat at 7:30pm • Stifel Theatre

Musical Fables A feast for the eyes and ears. Celebrated illustrator Grégoire Pont’s animation plays on screen, bringing music by Albert Roussel to colorful life. Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf is accompanied by an Academy Award-winning short film.

Intermission gathering and post-concert champagne toast with Music Director Stéphane Denève hosted by: • Jewish Federation of St. Louis • St. Louis Jewish Light • St. Louis Jewish Community Center Jewish Community Night is sponsored by Michael Staenberg and the Staenberg Family Foundation.

Tickets at jfedstl.org/slso Already have tickets?

RSVP online for Community Night.

Page 18

January 10, 2024

2024 winter

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find balance and connection.” Tickets cost $26-$30. See cocastl.org

The 16th annual Gateway Blues Festival — featuring Tucka, King George, Pokey Bear, West Love, J’Wonn and Theodis Ealey — takes the stage at 8 p.m. March 29 at the Stifel Theatre. Tickets start at $59. See stifeltheatre.com

APRIL For the 45th year, Greater St. Louis Artists presents the Art Fair at Queeny Park. The juried fine art and fine craft show, featuring more than 100 artists from across the country, is scheduled April 5-7 in the Greensfelder Recreation Complex at the park in Ballwin.

Tickets are $10 at the door for adults; free admission for kids under 18 when accompanied by an adult. For details, see greaterstlouisartists.org/art-fair-at-queeny-park “Sake and Sakura” will celebrate the lush beauty of blooming cherry trees (sakura) from 5:30 to 8 p.m. April 5 at the Missouri Botanical Garden. At this event for individuals 21 and older, the admission fee includes samples of seven different sakes, a keepsake tasting cup and the opportunity to explore the Japanese Garden’s Teahouse Island. Additional sake and traditional Japanese cuisine will be available for purchase. Call 314- 577-5100 for admission information and for more details, see missouribotanicalgarden.org Maybe you saw the award-winning film “The Whale” — now St. Louis Actors’ Studio brings the story of an obese recluse to the stage April 5-21 at the Gaslight Theatre. For tickets, see stlas.org/whats-on-stage/ If you missed country rock band Blackberry Smoke in St. Louis last summer, you have a chance to catch them when they bring their “Be Right Here Tour” to the Pageant April 12 at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $35-$50 and are available at ticketmaster.com.

You don’t have to walk in Memphis to see Grammy-winner Marc Cohn in concert because he’s playing at the City Winery on April 14. Tickets to the 7 p.m. show range from $60-$75 and can be gotten at citywinery.com/st-louis.

Kiddos ages 7 and up will enjoy “The Kid at the Edge of Everything,” on stage April 19-21 in the Berges Theatre at COCA. By internationally acclaimed playwright Finegan Kruckmeyer, the play has been described as “interstellar surrealism,” and the prediction is that “children will relate to the real-world struggles of the characters to

The Ozark Mountain Daredevils bring their sounds of country-rock and electric bluegrass to the stage at 8 p.m. April 24 at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts at Lindenwood University. Se www.lindenwood.edu/j-scheidegger-center-for-the-arts for tickets ($30-$70).

The St. Louis University Library Associates will honor writer Jamaica Kincaid with the 2024 St. Louis Literary Award at 7 p.m. April 25 at The Sheldon. A professor in the African and African American Studies department as well as the Department of English at Harvard University, Kinkaid’s books explores themes of colonialism, gender and sexuality, racism, class and familial relationships. For tickets, se e s lu .e du/ l ibr a r y/s t- lou i s - l it erary-award-programs/ The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra presents the electrifying “Verdi’s Requiem” April 27-28 at Stifel Theatre. Stéphane Denève conducts, with performances by an all-star cast and the St. Louis Symphony Chorus. For performance times and ticket information, see shop.slso.org/7704 Greta Van Fleet’s “Starcatcher World Tour” comes to the Chaifetz Arena at 7 p.m. April 27. Founded in a garage in Frankenmuth, Mich., the rock band’s name honors a resident there. Special guest: Geese. Tickets start at $49.50. See chaifetzarena.com Winner of 10 Tony Awards, “Moulin Rouge!

The Musical” brings all its “eye-popping excess, glitz, grandeur and glory” to the Fox Theatre April 30-May 12. This love story is based on Baz Luhrmann’s film, “remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza.” For show times and ticket prices, see fabulousfox.com

MAY Get your jazz on May 1-5 when Jazz St. Louis presents the Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet in “A Tribute to Lionel Hampton,” the American jazz vibraphonist, pianist, percussionist and bandleader. The show is on stage at the Harold and Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz, 3536 Washington Ave. Tickets range from $40-$45. See my.jazzstl.org/1942 Imagine 12 superheroes in a submarine making calls to raise funds for their production of “The Tempest” while at the same time fighting evil and navigating interpersonal superhero relationships— that’s Chicago playwright Mickle Maher’s “Spirits to Enforce.” See Midnight Company’s production May 2-18 at the Kranzberg Arts Center’s Black Box Theatre. For show times and tickets, see midnightcompany.com

Robert Petkoff as Harold Zidler and the cast of North American tour of ‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical.’ PHOTO: MATTHEW MURPHY FOR MURPHYMADE Spend “An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma” and the St. Louis Symphony at 7:30 p.m. May 3 at the Stifel Theatre, with Stéphane Denève conducting. You’ll hear Claude Debussy’s “La Mer” and Edward Elgar’s “Cello Concerto.” For ticket prices and more information, see shop.slso.org/7779

Theater on the Washington University campus. The show tells the story of the Poet, his beautiful daughter, Marsinah; an evil Wazir of Police; his restless Wife of Wives, Lundanda; and The Mania of Mali, Bobo, as they wander the Sahara. For performance times and ticket prices, see theblackrep.org/season-47

Perhaps you’ve read about the “divorce” of sorts between longtime collaborators Daryl Hall and John Oates. Well, the upshot is that the Oates member of the duo will be playing a solo show at the City Winery at 7:30 p.m.

May 7. Tickets go from $50 to $65 and are available at citywinery.com/st-louis

Roy Kent fans: Brett Goldstein brings his comedy show “The Second Best Night of Your Life” to town May 17-18, on stage at the Fox Theatre. No children under 15 will be admitted. Tickets cost $57.50-$152.50. See fabulousfox.com

“Grapes in the Garden” brings wine and music to the Missouri Botanical Garden from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. May 10. Expect some 250 international and domestic wines available for tasting, and wine specialists will be on hand to answer questions. You must be 21 to attend, and advance tickets are required.

For details, see missouribotanicalgarden.org For many, Mother’s Day weekend means a visit to the annual Laumeier Art Fair.

Scheduled for May 10-12, the 37th incarnation features up to 150 artists from across the country displaying their juried work at Laumeier Sculpture Park. The event features local food and beverage vendors, hands-on activities for kids and live music throughout the weekend. Admission is $10 for ages 11 and up; free for kids 10 and under. For hours and more information, see laumeiersculpturepark.org/artists The Black Rep presents the musical “Timbuktu!” May 15 through June 9 at Edison

Dance St. Louis will present two days of nonstop dance by nationally touring professional companies May 24-25 at the 16th annual Emerson Spring to Dance Festival 2024 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus. The event is billed as “the Midwest region’s most celebrated dance festival.” Watch for ticket information at dancestlouis.org Opera Theater’s 49th Festival Season — scheduled for May 25 through June 30 at Webster University’s Loretto-Hilton Center — includes Rossini’s delightful comedy, “The Barber of Seville,” Puccini’s timeless “La bohème,” Handel’s masterpiece of love and politics, “Julius Caesar” and Philip Glass’ rarely produced “Galileo Galilei,” which explores the great scientist’s life. Several advance events will “explore the themes of the season and offer a chance for community gathering and dialogue.” For details and tickets, see opera-stl.org.

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SIMCHAS BIRTHS

ENGAGEMENTS

WEDDINGS

Page 19

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HKF

MITZVOT

Harvey Kornblum Foundation

SUBMIT YOUR SIMCHA ANNOUNCEMENT FOR FREE!

at stljewishlight.org/simchas

LEVINE-GRAHAM ENGAGEMENT

Hailie Klaven, daughter of Jeremy and Sarah Klaven of St. Louis, became a bat mitzvah in October 2023 at Congregation B’nai Amoona.

Hailie is the granddaughter of Scott and the late Soozi Waxman of St. Louis, Don and Sandy Klaven of St. Louis, and Debra and Joel Spigel of Chesterfield. She is the great-granddaughter of the late Harriet and Monroe Zimmerman of St. Louis, the late Ruth and Jerome Klaven of St. Louis, the late Shirley and Marvin Goldenberg of St. Louis, and the late Ruth and Louis Spigel of Stamford, Conn.

Hailie has two siblings, Gabie, who is 15 years old, and Zac, who is 2.

A seventh-grade student at Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, Hailie is a competitive hip hop dancer, and she plays volleyball and basketball. Hailie’s mitzvah project involved providing care packages and personally delivering them along to the homeless, as well as providing love and security to homeless animals.

How they met It’s the not so typical college story of two people who met at a bar and argued about Israel only to realize they were loudly

BIRTH: NESSA JANE BEN-ZIKRI Abigail and Sam Ben-Zikri would like to announce the birth of their daughter, Nessa Jane Ben-Zikri, on Nov. 17, 2023 in Milwaukee, weighing 7 pounds, 6 ounces.

Nessa is the granddaughter of Barbara and David (deceased, zichrono livracha) Green of St. Louis, and Natalie and Abdul Ben-Zikri of Madison, Wis. She is the great-granddaughter of the late Anne and Aaron Rosenthal, and the late Wolf and Bina Green.

Nessa has one sibling, Sabrina Lianne, who is 2 years old.

Submit your family’s simcha announcement Thanks to the generous support of the Harvey Kornblum Foundation, members of the St. Louis Jewish community can submit simcha announcements for free. Submit an announcement for your family’s recent simcha (birth, bar/bat mitzvah, engagement, wedding or major anniversary):

stljewishlight.org/simchas

PHOTO: LIZZY JURRIES

BAT MITZVAH: HAILIE KLAVEN

Rebecca Gabrielle Levine and Ryan Michael Graham have announced their engagement.

Becca is the daughter of Leiba and Ken Levine of St. Louis, who are members of Congregation Shaare Emeth.

Leiba is a teacher at Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School. Becca is the granddaughter of Jerry and Ruth Silverberg (z”l) of Dubuque, Iowa, Richard (z”l) and Chris Levine of San Diego and Elise Levine (z”l) of San Diego.

Ryan is the son of Shelly and Steve Graham of Overland Park, Kan. He is the grandson of Oma and the late Ralph Rogers of Dakota Dunes, S.D., and the late Elva and Leonard Graham of Madison, Wis. Becca currently works at Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City as Development & Impact Officer, having previously worked at University of Delaware Hillel and Congregation Beth Shalom. She holds degrees in Jewish Studies and Religious Studies from the University of Kansas.

Ryan currently works as an attorney at WM Law, having received a bachelor’s degree in sociology f rom Ok la homa State University, a master’s degree in political science from University of Missouri-Kansas City and a law degree from the University of Kansas School of Law.

exclaiming the same thoughts. These two are still loud, passionate about Israel, and have continued to fall in love over the last eight years of long distance, law school and the pandemic.

Becca and Ryan live with their golden retriever, Beau, in Overland Park.

Becca and Ryan got engaged on May

14, which is very special as it’s Ryan’s grandmother’s birthday as well as Beau’s birthday. It was also mother’s day, which was very special for both Becca’s mom, Leiba, and Ryan’s mom, Shelly.

A Nov. 11, 2024 wedding is planned in Westlake, Texas.

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January 10, 2024

OBITUARIES

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Families may submit an obituary for a loved one through the funeral home they work with or by using a form on the Jewish Light’s website: stljewishlight.org/submit-obituary

OBITUARY NOTICES UPDATED DAILY AT STLJEWISHLIGHT.ORG/OBITUARIES

NATHAN A. BANK, December 26, 2023 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Nathan Aaron Bank, who passed away at his home. Beloved son of Colman and Diann Bank; dear brother of Dr. Adam Bank (Vivi) and Jason Bank (Bluma Shayndle); loving uncle of Stephanie, Danny, Moshe, Chasdeya, Yehoshua, and Moriyah Bank; dear nephew, cousin, and friend to so many.

A Funeral Service was held Sunday, December 31 at BERGER MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 9430 Olive Boulevard. Interment followed at Chevra Kadisha Cemetery, 1601 North and South Road.

Memorial contributions preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association, 11433 Olde Cabin Road, Ste. 100, St. Louis, MO 63141.

Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service SHIRLEY BARKEN passed away on December 29, 2023.

Widow of Eugene (Gene) Barken. Loving daughter of the late Mollie and the late Ben Kauffman, sister of the late Alvin (the late Natalie) Kauffman, aunt of Brad (Liz) Kauffman.

Dear cousin of the late Gloria (the late Bernard) Sirkin, Nancy (Andy) Weigley and Linda (Ric) Kram, Dr. Harvey and Dale Glazer. Dear friend of Barbara and Amos Shamir, Marvin and Ginger Marcus, Roberta and the late Daniel Stolz , Debbie Schuster, Susan and Max Brown, Esti Goldman and Danny Gurvis, Al Leving and Vivienne Palmer-Young, Cindy Payant and Jim White, Chris and Michael Kurtz, the late Harvey and Jackie Fenster, Dr. Randi Mozenter and Larry Friedman, Howard Belsky, Jonathan Belsky and Dr. Andrew Gold.

Shirley and Gene were long-time employees of Famous Barr/Macy’s. In fact, Shirley was recognized as the longest serving employee – an

OBITUARIES INDEX Bank, Nathan A. Barken, Shirley Baum, Pearl Nancy Biernbaum, Rose Bressler, Leo Cherrick, Linda Dennison, Miriam Prinz Franzel, Marilyn Leuther, Lisa Gilden Marks, Michael Jeffrey Miller, Lester Israel

Pollack, Seymour Victor Safron, Elaine Salky, Bernard Segal, Melinda Silverman, Sharon Ruth Singer, Pamela Jean Steuer, Ira M. Waldman, Rose Pearl Wallach, Linda Beth Hoffman Yakovitz, William “Bill”

unbelievable 60 years – before she retired.

Shirley was fondly known to /generations of perfume buyers and helped her clients select just the right scents for themselves or as gifts.

Thank you, Dr. Gold, for the time and patience you always had for both Gene and Shirley. They loved to come to your office and your staff was always so kind and attentive. Thank you to the staff at The Grande at Creve Coeur who treated Shirley with kindness, gentleness, affection and dignity. You made her last year a blessing.

Taking care of each other is what

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PEARL NANCY BAUM, December 23, 2023 Beloved wife of the late Adolph W. Baum; mother and mother-inlaw of Robin (late Steve) Lehtman, Beth (Dennis) Rath and Lisa Brennan; step-mother of Donald (Mary) Baum, the late Edwin (Sue) Baum, and Richard (Barbara) Baum; dear sister and sister-in-law of the late Charles (late Ruth) Mayer, the late Betty (late Morris) Wolff and the late Jake (late Katherine) Mayer; dear grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, greataunt, great-great-aunt, cousin and friend to many.

A funeral service was held Thursday, December 28 at Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Blvd. 63132. Interment followed at New Mt. Sinai Cemetery, 8430 Gravois Rd. 63123.

Memorial contributions are preferred to a charity of your choice. Visit www.bergermemorialchapel. com to view the livestream of the service and for more information.

Berger Memorial Service ROSE BIERNBAUM (nee Becker), age 96, passed away on December 20, 2023.

Beloved wife of the late Ben Biernbaum for 52 years. Loving mother of Gary (Cynthia) Biernbaum and Alyce (Richard) Bell. Cherished grandmother of Colleen (Brian) Mueller, Andrew Biernbaum, Jody (Brian Young) Bell, Brian Bell, and Jason Bell. Adored great-grandmother of Sadie Mueller. Loving daughter of the late Benjamin and the late Fannie Becker. Dear niece of the late Sarah Scolnik. Devoted sister of the late Saul Becker and the late Betty Rosenberg and brother in-law Albert Rosenberg. Dear aunt, great-aunt, cousin, and devoted friend to many.

Rose was dedicated to her family and had a special love for babysitting her grandchildren.

Her passion for music extended to playing the piano, a talent she shared on the radio. Alongside her musical pursuits, she found joy in showcasing her culinary skills and cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals.

A funeral service was held Sunday, December 24 at Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Blvd, followed by interment at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the American Heart Association or Alzheimer’s Association.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support of Rose’s caregivers at Bentley Extended Care, including nurses Cheryll and Danielle, the staff at Pathways Hospice, including nurses Sam and Kelly, Social Workers Lindsey and Rachel, as well as nurse Nicole from Specialized Wound Management.

Berger Memorial Service

American Flag symbol denotes a United States military veteran.

9430 Olive Blvd., St. Louis

Richard W. Stein

The funeral was held on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 7550 Olive Blvd, 63130.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley’s name may be made to Kol Rinah or a charity of your choice.

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

Emily Stein MacDonald

8/23/17 5:26 PM

LEO BRESSLER, December 22, 2023, passed away at the age of 101.

Beloved husband of the late Geraldine Bressler. Dear brother and brother-in-law of the late Harold (Esther) Bressler; the late Dorothy (Ted) Brody; and the late Bernard (Joy) Bressler. Dear Father and Father-in-law of Larry (Risa) Bressler, Linda (Menachem) Szus; and Kenny (Barb) Bressler. Dear Grandfather of Jamie and Joshua Bressler; Jonathan and Matthew Bressler; Eli (Josephine) Szus, Dana (Elie) Sutton, and Micky Szus. Great Grandfather of Sammy, Jane, and Linda Sutton.

Born in 1922, Leo Bressler’s legacy of 101 years spans far and wide. Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, he graduated from Washington University in Chemical Engineering in 1943. He then served in the Navy as a Lieutenant on an LST ship in World War II, ferrying men and equipment between France and England.

He received a letter from the Secretary of the Navy in 1946 in appreciation of his service. He then soon went on to become one of the original seven employees, and later one of the VicePresidents, of Sigma-Aldrich Chemical Co, which later merged to become Millipore-Sigma, today a multi-billion dollar worldwide company with over 60,000 employees. He was instrumental in the development of saccharin, various diagnostic reagents, and other biochemicals still used worldwide today. He retired from Sigma in 1998, after 52 years with the company. Most recently, he dedicated a Laboratory at Washington University in recognition of his past colleagues who made Sigma-Aldrich great. He also established the ”Leo and Geraldine Bressler Scholarship Fund” to benefit engineering students’ educations at Washington University.

He married Geraldine in 1948, and they had three children – Larry, Linda, and Kenny. He took up tennis at a young age, and was an avid tennis player his whole life all the way through his late eighties. He was regionally ranked, occasionally playing with the likes of Arthur Ashe and Jimmy Connors. His most frequented tennis venues were at Heman Park in University City, the St. Louis Armory, and Forest Park. He was an avid fan of classical music, and attended the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra regularly at Powell Hall for over 20 years with his son and son-in-law. He also regularly attended Shabbos services at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion, where he chanted Haftorah multiple times into his nineties.

The family gives special thanks to Leo Bressler’s long time caregiver Debry LaNear; to the VNA Hospice care team – especially Julie; to a multitude of other caregivers; and to the support and friendship of the Brentmoor staff and residents.

Mr. Bressler will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his kindness, his compassion for those in need, his unwavering work ethic, his service to his country, and his immeasurable generosity.

Memorial contributions may be made to the VNA (Visiting Nurses Association), to the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, to Nusach Hari B’nai Zion Synagogue, or to the charity of your choice.

A graveside service was held Wednesday, December 27th at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road. Memorial contributions may be made to the VNA (Visiting Nurses Association), to the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, to Nusach Hari B’nai Zion Synagogue, or to the charity of your choice. Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information.

Berger Memorial Service

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LINDA CHERRICK, December 20, 2023 Beloved sister of the late Fred Cherrick. Dear daughter of the late Nathan and Dorothy Cherrick. Cherished aunt of David (Rica) Cherrick and Robert (Sarah) Cherrick. Loving great-aunt of Rachael, Rose, George, and Elyana Cherrick. Our dear relative and friend.

A graveside service was held Tuesday, January 2 at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road. Contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service MIRIAM PRINZ DENNISON, December 29, 2023 Beloved wife of the late Marshall T. Dennison; dear mother and mother-in-law of Linda Wexler, Lori Bolt (Mark) and Steven Dennison (Gladys Tong); dear grandmother of Hailey Hughes (Ross), Bridget Baker, Kevin Baker and Hugo Dennison; dear daughter of the late Margot and the late Kurt Prinz; dear sister and sister-in-law of Susan Shear (Steve); dear sister-in-law, aunt, cousin and friend to many.

A graveside service was held Monday, January 1st at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery-White Road.

Memorial contributions preferred to the American Heart Association.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service MARILYN FRANZEL (4/10/1936-12/26/2023) Loving daughter of the late Max and Esther Franzel; Dear sister of the late Gerald Franzel (Beatrice); Caring Aunt to Aaron (Ellen) Franzel, Michael (Sue) Franzel, and Dee (Steven) Mintz; Great-Aunt and Great-Great-Aunt to Rachel (Jacob) Tarabar, Caryn Mintz, Rebekah (Rob) Kutten, Sarah Franzel, Micah Franzel, Mason Tarabar, Simon Kutten and the late Jacob Franzel.

Cousin and friend to many.

Marilyn enjoyed her family and she will be missed.

A Graveside Service was held Thursday, December 28th at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, University City. Memorial contributions preferred to Friends of Kids with Cancer/Jake’s Crew.

Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service LISA GILDEN LEUTHER, December 26, 2023 Loving wife of Tim Leuther; caring mother and mother-in-law of Elizabeth (Quinn) Johnson, Grace Leuther and Joshua Leuther; Mommom to Leyla and Ivy Johnson; sister and sister-in-law of Ellen (Andrew) Berg, Janice (David Osborne) Shanitkvich and Laurie (Kevin Kleff) Gilden; dear daughter of the late Dr. Jerome and late Annette Londe Gilden; loving aunt, great-aunt, cousin, friend, and teacher to many.

Lisa grew up in St. Louis and, after completing college, began to work at The Wilson School in Clayton. She spent 33 years teaching over 600 students before retiring to spend more time with family. She had a deep commitment to her students, exceptional empathy, and an overwhelming pride in the successes of those she loved. She lived for her family, granddaughters, and friends. She will be missed.

“You never know how strong you are until it’s your only choice.”

A graveside service was held Sunday December 31 at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Rd. 63017, followed by a small reception at The Corner Pub Grill, 15824 Fountain Plaza Drive, Ellisville, 63017.

Memorial contributions preferred to Metastasis research society (MRS), METAvivor, or the charity of your choice.

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

OBITUARIES MICHAEL JEFFREY MARKS, Age 64, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2024, at St. Lukes Hospital. He was born on March 3rd, 1959, to Leonard & Stefanie Marks in Wilmington, DE. Michael Marks was a passionate horticulturalist and well-known business owner in the St. Louis area. He was known for his love for nature, family and friends, and helping others in times of need. His passion for ice hockey and the St. Louis Blues was a significant part of his life, bringing joy to him and many others throughout his lifetime.

Devoted to his family, Michael Marks was a loving father to Lindsey Marks-Fabiano, Christopher (Christina) Marks, Melissa (Daniel) Weinberg and Donald Marks. Beloved grandfather to Jackson Thomas Fabiano, Serena Stefanie Fabiano, Emma Rose Marks, Angelina Marie Carpenter, William Harrison Weinberg, Waylon Thomas Weinberg and Lilliana Sunny Weinberg. Loving brother to Audrey Krebs.

Beloved son of the late Stefanie Lisa Ballin Marks and the late Leonard Benjamin Marks. Our dear uncle, cousin and friend.

Michael Marks will be remembered for his loving and social demeanor such as acts of kindness and consistent exciting sense of humor.

Friends and family alike will cherish the memories of Michael by allowing Michael to touch their hearts.

Michael’s departure leaves a void in our lives, but his spirit will live on through the memories we shared.

May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A Memorial service will be held Friday, January 12, 1:30pm at Congregation Shaare Emeth, 11645 Ladue Road. No visitation prior to service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Michael’s memory be made to the St. Louis Arborist Association (www. stlouisarborist.org) or to Beesponsible (www. beesponsible.com).

Please visit www.rindskopfroth.com for more details and information on the Celebration of Life. A Rindskopf-Roth Service LESTER ISRAEL MILLER, December 20, 2023 Beloved husband of Judy Zaban Miller; dear father and father-in-law of Bill Miller (Lisa), Barbara Miller, Bobbi Barton (Jeff), Betsy Gleijeses, Beth Sue Miller, Bridget Gregory (Lee) and Brandi Miller; dear grandfather of David Miller, Cardine A. Miller, Cardine V. Miller, Harrison Barton, Alexa Barton, Cooper Barton, Rosalba Gleijeses, Caterina Gleijeses, Alex Gregory, Elllen Gregory and Grace Miller.

Dear brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend.

A private family service will be held. Lester was an entrepreneur and started many businesses including Contico International.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service SEYMOUR VICTOR POLLACK, 90, of St. Louis Mo, passed away on December 22, 2023. He was born on August 3, 1933 in Brooklyn, New York.

Seymour began his career in the Aerospace industry designing fighter jet engines and then took a huge career risk to enter the then unknown world of Computer Science. In 1966 he was asked to help establish the department of Computer Science at Washington University in St. Louis and served as a Full Professor, publishing more than 10 textbooks and several articles on the subject.

His first love, however, was teaching, and he truly enjoyed making the complex subjects he

January 10, 2024

taught comprehensible and entertaining. His generous nature and engaging sense of humor made him a favorite of many students and colleagues at Washington University in Saint Louis. He was recognized with several honors including the Distinguished Faculty Award, Favorite Faculty Award, the Burlington Northern Foundation Faculty Achievement Award and many others.

He was a keen practitioner of his art and consulted for several companies designing computer systems to streamline processes and improve results in the St. Louis area, including the American Automobile Association, McDonnell Douglas and others.

Outside of his career, Seymour had a passion for music and was a talented pianist and enjoyed playing trombone and composing original pieces as he and his wife Sydell found joy playing in many St. Louis area orchestras and Bands.

Seymour will be lovingly remembered for his kind and generous nature, his sense of humor and empathy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sydell, his son Mark, daughter Sherie, daughter-in-law Barbara Pollack and granddaughters Catherine and Michelle Pollack. Berger Memorial Service ELAINE SAFRON, December 21, 2023 Beloved wife of the late Stanley B. Safron; dear mother of Bruce Safron (Terry), Hildy Steiner (Dan), Michelle Britton (Richard), and Robert Safron (Claudia); dear grandmother of Courtney Shanitkvich (Zachary), Scott Safron, Adam and Justin Blind, Rick Britton (Carrie), Andrew Britton (Erika), Alexander Safron (Gina), Natalie, Nicholas (fiancée Rachel), and Christina Safron; dear great-grandmother of Evan, Aiden, Alexis, Rachel, Sara, Chase, and Ashten; dear sister of the late Shirley Wexler and the late Norman Klenofsky (late Lorraine); dear aunt, cousin, and friend.

A Graveside Service was held Tuesday, December 26th at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road. Memorial contributions preferred to American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service BERNARD SALKY, DECEMBER 16, 1928-January 7, 2024 Bernard (Burney) Salky, known to some as “Big Benny” or “Benny,” passed away on January 7, 2024, at 95-years old. He was born in Memphis, TN— part of the first generation of children born to a tight-knit family of Jewish Polish immigrants who reached America between the world wars. In Memphis, he attended Humes High School before enrolling at Washington University in St. Louis. There, he met Leatrice (Lee) Salky, his

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beloved wife of 71 years.

Burney served in the U.S. Army in Fort Benning, GA. There, he and Lee welcomed their first child, Paula. Upon concluding his service, they returned to St. Louis where their son Kenneth (Kenny) was born, and Burney began his career in sales. They remained in St. Louis where they raised their family, built cherished friendships, and hosted countless milestones under their roof.

Burney was preceded in death by his wife Lee, and his sister Faye Blyveis. He is survived by daughter Paula, son Kenny (Molly), granddaughters Sarah Salky and Ellie (Jared) Weinstein, and great granddaughter Rosie Lee Weinstein.

With an infectious love for life, Burney gathered friends wherever he went. His community stretched from family far and wide, neighbors, friends from every stage of life, and many, many more— including even patrons of the gym where he stayed active well into the final year of his life.

He loved to entertain and share his table, often cooking for the people he loved. His trademark barbeque (always Memphis style) was a well-known and much sought-after treat for those lucky enough to have it.

Together, Burney and Lee loved to travel. They saw the world together, and later shared their love of travel with their grandchildren. Burney shined as a grandfather, delighting in spoiling his two granddaughters. Together with Lee, the two delighted in every challenging and joyful role as grandparents, passing on their wisdom, love, and zeal for life along the way.

Last year, Burney met his great granddaughter, Rosie Lee Weinstein. Not surprisingly, she took an immediate shine to him, and he never failed to make her laugh—like he did so many.

Burney lived his life to the fullest in his 95-years and will be deeply missed by the many people who love him dearly.

Visitation Wednesday, January 10th, 12:00 Noon at BERGER MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 9430 Olive Blvd, followed by funeral service at 12:30 PM. Private family interment. Memorial contributions preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater St. Louis.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service Obituaries continue on following page

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OBITUARIES

January 10, 2024

Continued from previous page MELINDA SEGAL (nee Mellman), 44, December 25, 2023 Beloved wife of Elliot Segal. Loving mother of Jordan and Alex Segal. Cherished daughter of Maxine and Andrew Mellman. Dear sister of Frank (Sari) Mellman. Fond daughter-in-law of Clifford (Joan) Segal and the late Laurie Segal and sister-in-law Andrea (Lawrence) Goldstein.

Melinda grew up in Louisville KY, where she attended Collegiate School and graduated from the advanced program at Ballard HS. During high school she was rated among the top five women epee fencers in the United States and volunteered at the Louisville Zoo caring for large mammals. She attended Barnard College of Columbia University in New York City, earning a BA in Architecture, and was elected a Class Marshal. Melinda also continued to fence and received All-Ivy-League recognition.

After graduation, Melinda was Sales Manager for Tiffany & Co Fifth Avenue flagship store, managing over 100 sales professionals with responsibility for an average of $1 million in sales per day. She transferred to New Product Development in the Watch Division while also serving on the Board of the High Line Park development in New York. Melinda moved to Chicago to be closer to family, served on the Board of the Art Institute of Chicago and was active in various religious organizations. At the time of her death she was the Director (and founder) of the Wall Covering Division of Holly Hunt, a Herman Miller subsidiary.

A service was held Wednesday, Dec. 27 at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd (at Niles Center Road), Skokie. Interment Westlawn.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Wellness Center, 215 Revere Drive, Northbrook, IL 60062, www. cancerwellness.org or your favorite charity.

Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com SHARON RUTH SILVERMAN, December 29, 2023 Beloved wife of David Silverman; dear mother and mother-inlaw of L. Jeff Silverman (Mel Bussey) of Oxford, OH and Andee Wolfe (Jim); dear grandmother of Allissa, Brady, Dan, Louie, Josh and Sam Wolfe; dear sister and sister-in-law of the late Hubert Diamond and Al Diamond (Norma); our dear aunt, cousin and friend.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, January 2 at United Hebrew Congregation, 13788 Conway Rd. Interment at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Rd. Memorial contributions preferred to the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry.

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

PAMELA JEAN SINGER (née Parker) passed away on Sunday, December 31 while being comforted by family.

She is survived by her son Benjamin Douglas Singer (Sarah) and Elana Rachel Feinstein (Raphael). She is also survived by her former husband Marc Singer, the father of her children.

Pamela was predeceased by her brother Doug Parker.

Pamela was an intellectual, principled, funloving, spiritual, and adventurous published author of short stories, who always put her children first.

Pamela planned trips to foreign countries, concerts, and carnivals for her family. She loved to learn, putting herself through college in the United Kingdom and Iowa (including classes at the Writer’s Workshop), attending adult Jewish learning, and earning a master’s degree at age 55.

Pamela lived her values, including prolific volunteerism, philanthropy, and religious observance. She served as Sisterhood President at Traditional Congregation where she also organized the annual Tu B’Shevat seder. For years, she single-handedly organized the Book Fair at Solomon Schechter Day School. She was also a passionate advocate for animal welfare, fostering and adopting rescued greyhounds. No task was too small or too great for her. She took great pride in her later work at the Treasury Department where she received numerous commendations for her excellent work ethic, accuracy, and commitment to public service.

A graveside service was held Tuesday, January 2nd at Chesed Shel Emeth-Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Road. The family requests donations to the Jewish Federation of St. Louis at https://www.jfedstl.org and the Humane Society of Missouri at https://hsmo.org.

Visit bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service IRA M. STEUER, December 26, 2023 Beloved husband of Teresa “Tracy” Steuer for 19 years. Dear brother of Gloria (Wayne) Lieberman-Kaufman. Loving uncle of Adam Lieberman, David (Elizabeth) Lieberman and Brian Lieberman. Cherished uncle, cousin and friend of many.

Ira was an avid motorcyclist and a member of numerous motorcycle clubs. He loved being social and kept in touch with all of his high school and college classmates, organizing zoom calls and luncheons. Ira was a proud pet papa and was devoted to his dogs,

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Kayla, Daisy and DD. A graveside service was held Thursday, December 28 at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Road. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Hartbauer-McBride Memorial Foundation, 7853 Wolf Road, Bethalto,IL 62010 or to the Kaufman Fund, 9605 Olive Blvd., Suite 250, St. Louis, MO 63132.

A Rindskopf-Roth Service ROSE PEARL WALDMAN (née Spiritus) passed away January 6th, 2024.

She was 96 years old. She contributed her longevity to meditation, which she did twice a day for 53 years. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Stanford S. Waldman, and her siblings Bernice Hillman, Tilly (Buck) Koslow, and Maury (Sadie) Spiritus, and her niece Ann Lynne (James) Birmingham. She is survived by her children, Mahesh Subrahmanyam and Joanne (Michael) Waldman, as well as her grandchild Sterling (Zoey) Waldman-Schein, and her niece Shelley Koslow.

She was a very loving parent and wife. She married Stan on January 7th, 1951, and she still loved him deeply despite his passing in 1977.

Rose graduated from Soldan High School in 1945. She began school for dress design at Washington University but continued to make art only as a hobby. She worked for much of her life as an executive assistant. She was an involved member of the Covenant Place community for many years and will be deeply missed by her friends there.

Rose was a vibrant and dynamic woman.

Everyone who met her loved her, and her hair was always perfect.

There will be a service at Berger Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, January 10th, at 10 AM. Contributions in her memory may be made to St. Louis NORC (JFS) or Covenant Place.

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returned to her hometown of St. Louis where she started a career in advertising. Linda was a passionate music lover and composed her own scores for the piano, even having a show featuring her original music.

A private funeral ceremony for close family members was held. Memorial contributions preferred to NAMI St. Louis, 810 Craig Road, Ste. 124, St. Louis, MO 63146.

Berger Memorial Service WILLIAM “BILL” YAKOVITZ, December 26, 2023 Beloved husband of Debra Lee (Melman) Yakovitz for 49 ½ years. Dear father of Elizabeth (Ryan) Clouthier and Joshua (Deanna) Yakovitz.

Loving grandfather of Tyler and Ashley Clouthier and Callum Yakovitz. Dear brother-in-law of Geri (Mike) Tyrey and Mort (Lora) Melman.

Beloved son of the late Milton and Rosalie Yakovitz. Dear uncle, cousin and friend.

Bill was always quick with a joke, loved old movies and TV shows especially the Three Stooges, The Marx Brothers, Casablanca, Airplane! and all the westerns. He cheered for the St. Louis Cardinals and was a huge fan of Stan the Man. Bill loved Debra’s cakes and an occasional White Castle (but that’s not important right now). He was a huge dog lover and had dogs his entire life, mostly rescue. Bill will be greatly missed. Here’s looking at you kid.

A graveside service was held Friday, January 5 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road. Contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306. A Rindskopf-Roth Service

LINDA BETH HOFFMAN WALLACH, December 24, 2023 We are sad to announce the passing of Linda Beth (Hoffman) Wallach.

Linda was born on December 4, 1954 in Boston and passed away on December 24, 2023 after an unexpected decline in health. Linda was only 69 years of age.

Linda is survived by her former husband, John Wallach, her daughter, Laura Ressler, and her sisters Gail Hochberg, Nancy Shein, and Sally Gelfman. Linda was predeceased by her mother, Meryl Nieman DeWoskin, and her father, Theodore Hoffman.

Linda graduated from Horton Watkins High School and then attended the University of Southern California where she studied film. She

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temple emanuel

HANUKKAH CELEBRATION Temple Emanuel’s Religious School celebrated Hanukkah on Dec. 10 with an all-school celebration. Students played dreidel, created dreidel art, made — and ate — edible dreidels and made woven placemats that will be donated to new immigrants and refugees through the International Institute.

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chabad at mizzou

LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT

Chabad at Mizzou held a menorah lighting on campus, which was attended by Mizzou President Mun Choi. Above, recent graduate Madeline Hartranft, the outgoing president of the Chabad students’ group, speaks to the crowd.

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January 10, 2024

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In honor of

Michael Staenberg

A leader who does so much for our students and so many Jewish communities around the world.

Rabbi Shlomo and Kyra Ashkanazy JLIC Co-Directors, WashU

Orthodox Union, JLIC of Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.