CAMP & EDUCATION
Lasting impression St. Louis rabbis discuss finding their calling while attending summer camp. PAGE 15
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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Going nationwide
A new nonprofit is working to spread JCRC’s Student to Student program across the country BY ELLEN FUTTERMAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
T
he Student to Student program, founded 30 years ago by the Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis, is going national. It will be headquartered in St. Louis, under the auspices of a new nonprofit, Student to Student Inc. “Given the bigotry, hate and antisemitism that is out there, we felt strongly that we needed to expand the reach of Student to Student nationwide,” said Joe Pereles, a former board chair of the JCRC who co-founded the nationwide spinoff organization. “We know the program really works and makes a difference in breaking down barriers and stereotypes,” added John Kalishman, also a former board chair of the JCRC and the other co-founder. Student to Student (STS), which first began here in 1992, sends Jewish high school juniors and seniors in the St. Louis area to schools in the region where most teens
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otherwise have little contact with the Jewish community. By listening to their Jewish peers from the Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and Reconstructionist movements as well as the unaffiliated — and asking them questions about their Jewish identity and practices — students unfamiliar with Judaism can learn firsthand about the religion, which can help to dispel stereotypes and breakdown prejudice. “We know how potent these peer-to-peer interactions are — in some cases students are meeting a Jewish person for the first time,” said Pereles. “Over the years we’ve heard from teachers and students about how this exposure has changed attitudes, helped to battle hatred and increase understanding about people whose only difference is the religion they follow.” During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these presentations, which can run from 45 to 90 minutes, have been virtual rather than in-person. Questions run the gamut. Some students have asked, “How do you go about choosing the branch of Judaism you belong to?” while others have voiced curiosity about keeping kosher: “What do
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ABOVE: In a 2017 file photo, David Feit Mann, then a sophomore at Yeshiva Kadmiah High School, closed a Student to Student presentation for an AP English class at Affton High School by explaining how a ram’s horn is used in Judaism. PHOTO: ERIC BERGER
you mean you can’t eat shrimp or lobster?” Kalishman said what convinced him of the importance and value in expanding the program were his children. All three had participated in STS during their high school years. He says the impact it had of them was profound. “For me, seeing my kids really embrace this program and own it and how seriously they took their involvement and how it made them so much more confident in speaking up about Judaism, was really gratifying,” he said. “I believe that for each of them, Student to Student is really an anchor of their Jewish identity.”
Humble beginnings and enormous growth In 1992, the program was launched with roughly six student presenters and a handful of schools, recalled Batya Abramson-Goldstein, who began Student to Student at the JCRC here and later served as the agency’s executive director until she retired in 2015. Today, Student to Student in St. Louis involves roughly 120 Jewish area teens and reaches at least 4,000 non-Jewish teens each year, explained Rori Picker Neiss, executive director of the St. Louis JCRC. According to independent surveys over the past few See STUDENT TO STUDENT on page 7
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INDEX Camp & Education .............................15-17
Obituaries........................................... 20-21
ChaiLights ................................................24
Ohr Chadash Teen Page.....................12-13
Classifieds ................................................22
Opinions .................................................8-9
Features...............................................10-11
Simchas .............................................. 18-19
Healthwatch.............................................14
Spotlight Photos ......................................23
Local News ............................................. 3-7
World News ........................................... 6-7
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NEWS & SCHMOOZE
JCRC admits MaTovu, J Street as members BY ROBERT A. COHN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EMERITUS
Two local Jewish organizations, MaTovu and the St. Louis chapter of J Street, were approved for full membership in the council of the Jewish Community Relations Council, in a meeting via Zoom earlier this month. The JCRC is the central coordination umbrella organization; its council is comprised of representatives from now 35 groups (given the two just added), up to 10 at-large members and the JCRC’s Board of Directors. According to its mission statement, JCRC works “to enhance cooperation with other religious, racial, ethnic, and civic groups; foster a just, democratic and pluralistic society; and promote the security of Israel and Jews everywhere. Guided by Jewish values, the JCRC advocates, educates, collaborates, and mobilizes action on issues important to the Jewish Community.” MaTovu, which tends to attract 20 and 30-something Jews, is an organization based in south St. Louis that sponsors a variety of social, cultural and educational programs designed to enrich connections to Judaism. J Street St. Louis describes itself as
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“pro-Israel, pro-peace and supportive of a two-state solution of the Jewish state of Israel and an independent de-militarized Arab state of Palestine.” JCRC President Deborah Price said that a quorum of eligible voters was present, with 46 out of 57 members. David Bohm, a past president of the JCRC, presided over the new membership discussion. Bohm said that no “ad hominim” personal attacks would be permitted. Following a spirited but respectful discussion, the Council voted to admit both groups to full membership. MaTovu was admitted by a vote of 41-1, with four abstentions. J Street was admitted by a vote of 36-7, with three abstentions. In order to be admitted, each group needed a two-thirds majority. In the discussion, no one spoke against admitting MaTovu. J Street was supported by Joe Pereles, a former JCRC President and Rabbi Jim Bennett of Congregation Shaare Emeth, among others. Rabbi Ze’ev Smason of Nusach Hari B’nai Zion spoke against J Street for its frequent criticism of Israel and its use of terms like “occupiers” and “apartheid.” Irl Solomon of the Zionist Organization of America also expressed opposition to the admission of J Street.
Jewish Federation VP leaves for job at St. Louis Symphony Julie Gibbs is leaving her position as Vice President of Development at the Jewish Federation of St. Louis to become the Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. With the move, Gibbs’ career is coming full circle, as she worked the first 10 years of her career at the SLSO in the marketing and development departments. “I couldn’t pass up this unique opportunity to go back to another passion of mine, the orchestra and Powell Hall.” Gibbs said in a statement released by Federation. “I love the work of Federation and I will be staying involved through Women’s Philanthropy and other volunteer opportunities.” Gibbs previously held positions at Federation as Director of Major Gifts and Affinity Groups and Director of Women’s Philanthropy. In her eight years there, she led growth within Women’s Philanthropy and helped create its now-signature women’s campaign and community event, L’Chaim! Gibbs was a key part of the team that successfully raised money for the expansion of the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, which will reopen later this year. In her VP role, Gibbs also guided the
Julie Gibbs is leaving Jewish Federation of St. Louis to become the Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. team as it exceeded goals in annual fundraising and planned giving, and has aligned the team around three key initiatives: inspiring philanthropy, planned giving, and supplemental/targeted giving, which will continue after her departure. Brian Herstig, Federation’s president and CEO, said he is sorry to see Gibbs go. “Julie is an incredible professional and colleague and has been instrumental in our success at Federation in so many ways. She’s been a key part of our leadership team, a trusted adviser for our donors, and an important member of our community,” Herstig said. Federation has begun an immediate search for its next Vice President of Development. Gibbs’ last day at Federation is Feb. 4.
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January 19, 2022
STL
LOCAL NEWS
New Jewish Theatre postpones opening of its 24th season The New Jewish Theatre has postponed performances of its 24th season kickoff show, “Laughter on the 23rd Floor,” which was originally scheduled to open Jan. 20. The new start date is Feb. 10. “We have been monitoring the situation with the Omicron variant as numbers have increased here in St. Louis. We thought it wise to delay our production during the St. Louis surge,” said Edward Coffield, NJT artistic director. “It is our priority to keep our audiences, artists and production staff safe, and we don’t want anyone to miss this hilarious performance because they’re hesitant to come to the theater.” “Laughter on the 23rd Floor,” Neil Simon’s classic comedy, will now run Feb. 10-27. NJT plans to contact current ticketholders about the change in
dates. Coffield said none of the dates for the other four shows in the season, which runs into December, are expected to change. NJT performs at the Jewish Community Center’s Wool Studio Theatre, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. Individual tickets are $47-$54. Guests can purchase season tickets and Flex Passes (a five-ticket package) at the NJT box office, online at newjewishtheatre.org or by phone at 314-4423283. NJT requires proof of vaccination (both doses of Moderna or Pfizer vaccines or one dose of Johnson & Johnson) for all attendees. Guests can present a vaccination card or photo, plus photo ID. NJT requires guests to wear masks properly over their nose and mouth.
Sharsheret Supports STL, a program of the J, will host an evening to help men and women better understand and manage hereditary cancer risks. “Let’s Talk About Men: Understanding and Managing Hereditary Cancer Risk” takes place virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 15, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Hear a personal story about what it means to be a male with a BRCA gene mutation as well as from other experts. The event features Suzanne Mahon, a genetics-certified nurse from St. Louis University, Hematology and Oncology; Dr. Jacob Ark, urologist from Urology of St. Louis who focuses on localized and advanced prostate cancer and Lynne Kipnis, a clinical psychologist and Sharsheret Supports STL Advisory Committee Chair. The program will conclude with a Q&A. Research shows that having a heredity mutation not only increases your chance of developing breast and ovarian cancer, especially among Jewish families, but
SCHOLARSHIPS 120 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Open January 10 through April 14 Apply online at
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/4338.
Established by Scott Lentin
THE RICHARD L. LEVIS, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Provides scholarships of up to $10,000 to Established in memory of Richard L. Levis, Jr. by high school juniors and seniors demonstrating his widow, Barbara Rosen financial need who have completed secondary Provides up to $1,000 in scholarship money to school and are enrolling in full-time Missouri area college or university students undergraduate degree programs or vocational demonstrating scholastic achievement and programs at accredited nonprofit colleges or financial need. universities. Preference given applicants of Jewish Federation of St.toLouis distributes a number of academic scholarships and any faith connected to the Jewish community THE BLANCHE ANDare IRVING interest-free loans to St. Louis area students. These scholarships openMILLER to residents and first-generation college students. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
of the greater St. Louis metropolitan area, with a preference given to Jewish applicants. THE BENJAMIN D. & MIRIAM PESSIN EDUCATION ASSISTANCE FUND Established in memory of Benjamin D. Pessin and Miriam Pessin by members of their immediate family
Provides $2,500 scholarships to qualified Jewish students demonstrating scholastic achievement and financial need pursuing a business degree.
THE RUTH GREENBERG MEMORIAL FUND FOR RABBINICAL TRAINING Established by the late Ruth Greenberg
Provides $2,500 scholarships for rabbinical training for St. Louis residents demonstrating financial need and intent to pursue a career in the rabbinate.
THE SAM A. KESSLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by friends of the late Sam A. Kessler
Provides a $1,000 scholarship for a local law school student demonstrating financial need and a willingness to contribute their time and talent to the Jewish community. Applicants must have resided in the St. Louis metropolitan area for no less than 10 years.
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 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.
Awardees will be notified no later than April 28, 2022. Please direct questions regarding any of Federation’s scholarships to Karen Sher at 314-442-3824 or KSher@JFedSTL.org.
increases your chances of developing prostate, pancreatic, colon, melanoma and male breast cancer. One in 40 men and women of Ashkenazi Jewish descent carries a BRCA gene mutation, compared to nearly 1 in 400 in the general population. “Sharsheret Supports STL is here to help educate all individuals on the increased genetic risks facing our community and the importance of knowing one’s family history,” says Sharsheret Supports Program Manager Debbi Braunstein. “We believe knowledge is power and knowing saves lives. Knowing your family history is a must for everyone.” This virtual event is free and open to all men and women. Registration is required at jccstl.com/sharsheret For more information on Sharsheret Supports STL, visit nishmah.org or contact Debbi Braunstein, Sharsheret Supports STL Program Manager, 314442-3266, dbraunstein@jccstl.org
JSU seeks teens for four-week trip to Israel Not sure how to provide your teen with a quality and meaningful Jewish programming this coming summer? Send him or her on Jewish Student Union’s “Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey” (TJJ). TJJ is an inspirational four-week touring experience in Israel for Jewish teens currently in grades 9-12. TJJ is an action-packed, transformative journey which allows participants to learn more about their Jewish heritage and culture by interfacing with the history, people and Land of Israel. TJJ includes activities all over Israel, such as hiking through waterfalls in the Judean Desert and the Golan Heights, torpedo boating and snorkeling in Eilat’s Red Sea, kayaking down the mighty Jordan River, rappelling off the stunning cliffs of the upper Galilee mountain range, navigating through a water obstacle course in the Sea of the Galilee and more. TJJ participants will gain an appreciation for both the ancient and modern sites of Israel. Due to the generosity of the Marcus Foundation, Harvey L Miller Family Foundation, the Jewish Federation of St. Louis and other donors, St. Louis JSU is able to offer this experience for $999 (all inclusive). For more information, contact Rabbi Mike Rovinsky at 314-498-6279. In the event of cancellation due to COVID, registrants will receive a full refund.
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Sharsheret Supports STL event looks at what the Breast Cancer Gene (BRCA) means for men
JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS
THE LENTIN SCHOLARSHIP FUND
JEWISH LIGHT
120 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
(314) 727-BRIT (2748) 1-800-85MOHEL www.brismilah.org
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January 19, 2022
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LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Q&A WITH THE EXPERTS
The Jewish Community Center’s Winter Used Book Sale takes place Jan. 23-27.
The J plans Winter Used Book Sale, from Jan. 23-27 The Jewish Community Center’s biannual Used Book Sale returns Jan. 23-27, with offerings in every genre, including mysteries, general fiction, nonfiction, children’s books and much more. “The Used Book Sale at the J is a great place to find amazing bargains and valuable collectibles,” said Hilary Gan, director of Literary Arts at the J. “The sale is recognized by book dealers and the literature community as being among the best in the St. Louis region.” Sunday, Jan. 23 is preview day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a $10 admission; free admission begins on Monday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, and on Thursday customers can fill a bag for $5 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Masks and proof of full vaccination will be required for entry. For updated and complete information visit https://jccstl.com/programs/ used-book-sale/ or contact Hilary Gan at hgan@jccstl.org.
Chesterfield Chabad starts five-part book club series Chabad of Chesterfield will host a hybrid five-part book club series. Meetings will take place on the third Tuesday evening of the month at 7 p.m. starting on Jan. 25. Community connection, conversation and discussions will be led by Rabbi Avi and Chanala Rubenfeld, co-directors of Chabad of Chesterfield. The book highlighted, “What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid,” by Michal Oshman, offers a journey of self-discovery based on the life-changing principles of Jewish wisdom and Chassidut teachings. Oshman, the head of culture Tik Tok Europe and former leadership expert at Facebook, offers solutions and empowerment to manage everyday struggles and concerns. Refreshments will be served. In person or Zoom. Event information will be sent upon registration. A $99/person donation is suggested (includes a copy of the book). RSVP required: www. ChabadOfChesterfield.com/ book. Meeting dates: Tuesday, Jan. 25, Feb. 22, March 22, April 26 and May 24. The next book will be “7 Conversations with Jerry,” by Rabbi Avraham Plotkin.
Ms. Missouri Senior America pageant planning auditions Ms. Missouri Senior America 2022 is holding auditions in February 2022 for women who are age 60 or older. The pageant, which takes place May 1, includes an evening gown walk, as well
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as interview and talent components. For information, contact State Pageant Co-Director Susan Pellegrino, at msmosenior@gmail.com or 314-640-5789. For more information, visit www.msmissourisenior.org.
Temple Israel will hold trivia night in February Congregation Temple Israel will hold a New Orleans-themed trivia night on Saturday, Feb. 26. “Frozen February Trivia Night: N’awlins Edition” will start at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6) at Temple Israel, #1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive. This event is open to the community. Masks are required in the temple building. The event may be moved to virtual if deemed necessary. General admission is $20 per person, $200 for a Table of 10. Guests can bring their own food and adult beverages (soft drinks, coffee, tea, lemonade and water will be provided). There will be a raffle for a two-day trip for two to New Orleans, which includes flights, hotel, and entertainment (valued at $3,250). Raffle tickets are $50 each ticket or 3 for $100 (maximum of 250 sold tickets). Guests do not have to be present or play trivia to win. There will also be a 50/50 raffle and mulligans available for sale. There will be a prize for best table decorations. Sponsorships are available at three levels ($250, $500 and $1,500). Reserve seats or sponsor the event by Monday, Feb. 14. Visit www.ti-stl.org/Trivia to RSVP or for more information.
Crown Center receives funding from Ameren for senior nutrition Crown Center for Senior Living has received funding from Ameren Missouri for the Senior Nutrition Program. This program serves adults age 60+ who may be at risk for nutritional deficiency and its detrimental effects. Food insecurity is a recognized as an ongoing problem for the elderly due to low incomes; minimal or no family support; lack of transportation; physical limitations and compromised health issues. Thanks to the generosity of organizations like Ameren Missouri, meal delivery will continue to Crown residents and area seniors, who receive at least five fresh, nutritional, tasty meals per week The Senior Nutrition Program seeks to help at-risk seniors to reap the benefits of good nutrition, bolstering the likelihood that they will experience a high quality of life and sense of well-being; and helping them to remain living independently for as long as possible.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY HOUSE BEFORE SELLING IT? First impressions are everything and we want your home to shine. We start with a thorough “to-do” list to help our sellers position themselves to sell quickly. From our first meeting to closing, we have go-to contractors, photographers, packers, and stagers that we know and trust. Our handson team will work with you every step of the way. Call us today and we will show you how to make your best first impression!
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Texas rabbi credits security — and rabbinic — training with helping him navigate hostage crisis BY RON KAMPEAS JTA
Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker has publicly described for the first time the moment he and two other hostages escaped a gunman in his synagogue in Colleyville, Texas, on Saturday “The last hour or so of the standoff, he wasn’t getting what he wanted,” CytronWalker told CBS in an interview posted on Monday morning. “It didn’t look good. It didn’t sound good. We were very, we were terrified. “And when I saw an opportunity where he wasn’t in a good position, I made sure that the two gentlemen who were still with me that they were ready to go. The exit wasn’t too far away. I told them to go, I threw a chair at the gunman and I headed for the door. And all three of us were able to get out without even a shot being fired.” The 11-hour standoff at Congregation Beth Israel in the Fort Worth suburb Saturday ended when an FBI SWAT team raided the synagogue after the rabbi and two other hostages fled. The gunman, Malik Faisal Akram, a British citizen, died in the raid. In the interview, Cytron-Walker detailed what happened when Akram arrived at the synagogue. The rabbi said he allowed Akram entrance and made him tea, speaking with him extensively. Some elements of Akram’s story didn’t add up, Cytron-Walker said, but he didn’t realize the danger until he was standing on the bimah facing away from his congregants when he heard the click of a gun. Cytron-Walker credited the security training he has received, including from Jewish community security consultants, for helping him to manage the crisis from that point until late that night, when he and two other men who were still being held ran from the building. “For the past few years, we’ve had training — it’s not training it’s I guess, courses, instruction — with the FBI, with the Colleyville Police Department, with the Anti-Defamation League, with Secure Community Network, and they really teach you in those moments that if you’re when your life is threatened, you need to do whatever you can,” he said. “To get to safety you need to do whatever you can to get out.” Cytron-Walker also thanked the same agencies in a separate statement released through a spokeswoman. “Without the
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A Police vehicle sits outside of the Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue in Colleyville, Texas, some 25 miles west of Dallas on Jan. 16. PHOTO: ANDY JACOBSOHN/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
instruction we received, we would not of training as clergy we talk a lot about the have been prepared to act and flee when idea of being a calm, non-anxious presthe situation presented itself,” he said. ence, we do that in hospital rooms, we do Cytron-Walker did not elaborate on that during the most difficult individual what training kicked in, moments,” Cytron-Walker but accounts showed that said. “I did the best that I he engaged Akram and could to do that throughout kept him calm. Cytronthe standoff.” Walker made clear to Jewish security officials Akram that he trusted said Cytron-Walker modeled him, according to audio how to behave in a hostage that was streamed from crisis, gaining the trust of the the synagogue in the first gunman, said Michael hours of the crisis. Masters, the Secure During an exchange Community Network CEO. with a hostage negotiator, “The rabbi and other indiAkram said, “Rabbi, I need viduals conducted themselves you to tell him that you Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker with a degree of calm and trust me that I will let you courageousness that was out. You’ve got to take my word for it.” truly remarkable under the circumstancCytron-Walker weighed in. “We do trust es,” Masters said in an interview. “The that. Again, I want to acknowledge, my offender indicated multiple times that he word doesn’t mean much in this situation, didn’t want to hurt the Rabbi, he referbut I do believe that he would let us out.” enced him by name, referenced at least In the interview with CBS, Cytron- one of the other hostages by name.” Walker said his rabbinical training kept The synagogue underwent three trainhim cool. ings last year with SCN, most recently on “As a part of rabbinic training, as a part Aug. 22, 2021. Masters said the trainings
involved establishing relations with local law enforcement, identifying exits and identifying suspicious behavior. Above all, Masters said, the critical step is to recognize the risk Jewish institutions now face and to “commit to action,” to train for security. Evan Bernstein, the CEO of the Community Security Service, which trains Jewish security volunteers, said it was critical that Jewish institutional security not fall off the radar after the headlines fade. Akram chose Beth Israel, reportedly, because it was close to the prison complex where a terrorist he wanted freed is being held. “We talk to our volunteers and I get asked when’s the higher alert or lower alert, it’s always an alert because you don’t know when a random activity is going to take place,” he said in an interview. “If you look at the acts of hate that have taken place, many of them are lone wolves that law enforcement would never be able to track. We can’t say,’ ‘Well, this is only going to be a major metropolitan problem or it’s going to be a smaller-city problem or a rural synagogue problem. It’s a problem for the community.’” The Jewish Federations of North America in October announced plans for a program to bring security infrastructure to every community in the country, as opposed just those that can afford it. In the wake of the Colleyville attack, JFNA said it was accelerating the program, which it calls LiveSecure. The program launch was moved to next month from later this year, a release said. Akram was seeking the release of Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani Muslim woman serving 86 years for attempting to kill U.S. security officials in 2008. He also made clear during the hostage crisis that he was singling out a Jewish target because he bought into antisemitic theories, according to a congregant who was listening to a livestream before the situation broke into public view. Siddiqui during and after her trial also peddled antisemitic invective. His family said in a statement that Akram was mentally ill and was determined to die. Akram was from Blackburn, in England’s northwest. On Sunday, police in Manchester, south of Blackburn, said they had detained two teenagers in South Manchester for questioning in relation to the Texas synagogue case. The tweet from Greater Manchester Police did not add further information.
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Student to Student: Longtime JCRC program is going nationwide CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 years, 100% of non-Jewish students found Student to Student presentations to be informative, and 84% were motivated to share their learning or take another step to learn more about Judaism and the Jewish people. Another 79% said they became more aware of antisemitism or spoke out against it. From 2017 to 2020, thanks to grants totaling $45,000 from a national Jewish foundation, Student to Student was able to expand to nine cities, operating through their local federation and/or JCRC. These cities, which continue to grow the program in their communities, include Indianapolis; Washington, D.C.; Chicago; Dallas; Seattle and Charlotte, N.C. Sara Winkelman oversees the program in D.C. and its suburbs as part of her job with the JCRC of Greater Washington. Winkelman, a former director of St. Louis’ Nishmah, pointed to two main reasons why expanding Student to Student is critical. “One is for the Jewish students — this is a rare opportunity to do something positive to fight antisemitism and hate in the world. It’s not about fear, it’s not about fighting, it’s about taking action and educating other kids about Judaism,” said Winkelman. “I also think there is a lot of ignorance out there — people who don’t see or understand antisemitism, who don’t realize that a Jewish joke could be offensive. This (program) gives them a chance to ask questions and hear from their Jewish peers, and in doing so, breaks down stereotypes and helps to bring about more understanding.”
In the Student to Student program, Jewish high school students visit schools without many Jewish students to discuss Judaism and answer questions. PHOTO: HTTPS://STUDENT-TO-STUDENT.ORG sustainable for St. Louis’ JCRC to be managing a national program,” she said. “I think this weekend (the Texas synagogue
attack) shows more than any other time the importance of people having exposure to Jews, and people understanding more
about who Jews are and what it means to be Jewish. The more that we can be mobilizing people to encounter the Jewish community, the more I think we can be combatting hate.” For Abramson-Goldstein, the “mother of Student to Student,” national expansion exceeds her “wildest dreams.” She said the program grew out of an initiative that brought Israeli students to St. Louis and placed them in public schools. The idea was to let the Israeli teens speak to American teens — student to student. “I was struck by the glow when the students in the classroom realized that their fellow teens would be speaking to them,” Abramson-Goldstein recalled. “It was so clear to me as I had been doing visits in the schools for years — the difference when an adult came in to when a teen came in — it was magical. I saw from the Israeli and American kids, the power of peer-topeer dialogue. I thought let’s do this. Instead of us adults going out, let’s organize teenagers.” For more information about Student to Student Inc., go to student-to-student.org.
Adapted by Patrick Barlow From the novel by John Buchan
The road to national expansion Fawn Chapel began overseeing the St. Louis program in 2003; she now serves as Student to Student’s national program coordinator. In that capacity, she provides training and support to program leaders and students in participating cities and organizes regular meetings to foster collaboration, share best practices and ensure quality control. Her tagline for the program is “fighting antisemitism — one student, one classroom at a time,” said Chapel, who along with Pereles and Kalishman has championed national expansion and will continue to serve as national coordinator as Student to Student Inc. now looks for an executive director. Over the past year, Pereles and Kalishman, along with input from Chapel, created a business plan for Student to Student Inc. and applied for 501c3 status. They reached out to potential funders in the local Jewish community and raised more than a half-million dollars. And they began to assemble a board of directors, which in addition to Rabbi James Bennett of Congregation Shaare Emeth will include members throughout the country to reflect the program’s national scope. When they brought their proposal to the JCRC board in December, its members agreed to transfer all “licenses and intellectual property” to Student to Student Inc. The local JCRC is now a licensee and is continuing to operate Student to Student in St. Louis, directed by Lauren Abraham, through its Newmark Institute. “The local JCRC doesn’t have the bandwidth for this type of expansion both from the financial and staffing perspective,” said Pereles, adding that over the years the Student to Student program has attracted attention from Jewish leaders in other cities. “The JCRC board was very much in favor of this plan because they know what a hidden gem it is and how impactful it will be for many more cities to be involved.” Picker Neiss agrees, pointing to the success of STS here and elsewhere, and the need for the program to be independent. “We want to give everyone the opportunity to have the program and it’s just not
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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
A better approach to service The United States’ economy is currently oriented toward service. Employment opportunities abound in the service industries such as food service, hospitality service, call center service, repair services and delivery service, to name a few. As consumers in a service economy, we have grown to expect excellent service, whether that is in booking vacations, ordering dinner, purchasing products online, or speaking to a customer service representative. Nothing is more annoying than hearing the words, “Please stay on the line. All of our representatives are serving other customers. Your call is very important to us. Please stay on the line.” This is usually followed by music that used to be played in elevators until the recording breaks in and reminds us how important our call is to the representatives currently serving other customers. In a desperate hope that we can forgo speaking to a real representative, we often resort to using our computer, tablet, or mobile phone to navigate to the desired company’s website in order to obtain the service required. No instant gratification there! Rather most websites take us on a route that is so convoluted as to wear out even the most patient person. Too often in this service-oriented economy the pursuit
Rabbi Josef Davidson serves Congregation B’nai Amoona and is a member of the St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association, which coordinates the d’var Torah for the Jewish Light. of service can seem futile. In this week’s Torah portion, Yitro, named for Moses’ father-in-law, it was just such a situation which Yitro, observed as people waited in line for hours, even days, to obtain an audience with Moses in order to learn what it is that was expected of them or to settle a dispute. There wasn’t even a recording or anything to let them know that their issue was important to Moses and to stay in the line until he was available. He was busy all day taking care of other people. Yitro, as would any father-in-law, gave Moses some advice. He observed how tiring and frustrating this process was for both Moses and the people whom he served. He then suggested a better way to provide for them. He suggested that Moses train others to serve along with him, to adjudicate cases that lesser leaders could handle, and leave the most difficult ones for Moses. This would reduce
greatly the time spent waiting in line and free Moses to take care of other personal and public responsibilities. What a great idea! Moses followed his father-in-law’s advice. The lines were shortened; the services provided sooner, and everyone was happier. There are many of us who take on too much, whether that is at home or at work. For some reason we believe that we have to do it all and that we don’t require any assistance whatsoever. For some it is a matter of believing that no one else is as capable. For others, it is a matter of simply not being able to say “no.” For still others, it is a scheduling issue (Surely I can fit one more project into my calendar!). Consequently, studies have demonstrated that Americans are not sleeping enough hours per night to adequately replenish their energy and their brains. This further decreases the quality of the service that can be rendered. Then, people are forced to hear, “Your call/visit is very important to us. Please stay on the line, as our sole representative is serving someone else.” Yitro’s advice is still as important and as true now as it was then. Often we can be more productive by seeking the help of others than by doing everything ourselves. In so doing everyone, providers and consumers, is better served. Shabbat Shalom!
Ink-loving editor bids farewell to beloved Clayton news shop BY ROBERT A. COHN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EMERITUS
At 82, I’m dealing with the harsh reality of illness and death striking down relatives and friends. Add to this the relentless news of the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, the cloud of sadness can envelop the soul. In a time of hyper partisan division in all areas of life we take comfort in the “constants” — family, friends — and places, like restaurants, movies and other familiar haunts that reassuringly seem to keep on going, like the Energizer Bunny. For me, that includes places like World News in Clayton, which recently announced that it is closing for good in February due to declining sales. “Say it isn’t so,” I lamented to Mike Flavin, the hardworking and accommodating manager of World News for 43 of its 55 years at the corner of Central and Forsyth avenues. The soft-spoken Flavin sadly confirmed the grim truth with the new sign on its door: “STORE CLOSING EVERYTHING MUST GO.” For a print news junkie like me, World News is like the beloved restaurant and bar Ernest Hemingway describes in his affecting short story “A Clean and Well Lighted Place.” In 1967, when World News opened, I was press secretary and speech writer of then St. Louis County Supervisor (Executive) Lawrence K. Roos. World News was my regular daily stop for me to get my “fix” of newspapers, magazines and paperbacks, topped off with a treat like a Snicker’s or Hershey bar. I have continued to be among the loyal regular
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Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Robert A. Cohn writes that he has buying newspapers, magazines and comics from World News in Clayton since its opening in 1967. The store recently announced it will close in February. customers since its inception. Week, The New Yorker, New York, The Since I joined the Jewish Light in 1969, I Atlantic, Harper’s, The Nation, The New have continued my love affair with World Republic, National Review, Commentary, News. Call me a dinosaur or an old, old Tikkun, Moment and Lilith. These publi-school devotee, but I love the cations cover the full spectrum tactile, ink-smearing print of political perspectives. I make media, which feels “more real” it my business to read the best than online sources. (My wife among the vast array of print Barbara does not share my love offerings at the media mecca of of printer’s ink.) I feel like a literWorld News. al “kid in a candy shop” at World In a post last week, World News. News owner John Cowley said, Each day my wife or I goes to “All good things must come to World News, where I pick up an end.” But like Marcel Robert A. Cohn the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, The Proust’s beloved Madeleine tea is Editor-in-Chief New York Times, The Wall cakes in “Remembrance of Emeritus of the Street Journal, USA Today, the Things Past,” World News will Jewish Light. Riverfront Times, the St. Louis be an endearing and enduring American and the Catholic Review — memory to lift our spirits through nostalplus a wide variety of publications rang- gia. I hope that in the world to come, ing from Superhero Marvel and DC there will be an exact duplicate of World comic books to Time, Newsweek, The News that remains open forever.
JCRC, J Street, divisiveness and tolerance BY RABBI SETH D. GORDON
I attended the recent Jewish Community Relations Council Zoom meeting, but as I had not attended for years I chose not to speak. The issue that drove increased attendance was whether or not to admit J Street St. Louis (see related story on page 4). The few who did speak either supported J Street in the name of tolerance and diversity or opposed them because their words and positions were viewed as divisive and harmful. Divisiveness is a tricky issue. Sincerely held positions often result in conflict among free-thinking people. Our Mishnah and Midrash is replete with differing views. The rabbis distinguished between a machloket l’shem shamayim and a machloket she-lo l’shem shamayim — conflict for the sake of Heaven and conflict which is not. The former is lauded, the latter discouraged. So I am not overly concerned about J Street injecting Rabbi Seth D. views that are diviGordon serves sive; indeed, some Traditional of their concerns Congregation. and the best of their motives align with Torah and our Sages. The underlying issue, from my point of view, is language and its effects — how we express ourselves. We are a people with long and deep traditions that speak about the words we use — l-shon ha-ra, harmful language even when true. Words matter. The word tolerance — as far as I know — does not appear in the Torah or in rabbinic teaching (Mishnah, Midrash, and Gemara), but the concept is evident in Torah law and narrative. The TaNaCH (full Bible) records numerous narratives of non-Israelites living amidst the Israelite population. In law, the Torah repeats the obligation to treat the ger (stranger, alien, non-Israelite) living within Israelitesociety with love. The rabbis counted 36 (some say 46) admonitions. (BT Baba Metzi’a 59b) God loves the ger (Psalm146). The meaning of love in these contexts is respect, dignity, and kindness. We are further commanded not to oppress the ger financially and to treat the ger equally in our courts. (The rabbis often interpreted ger to mean “convert,” but as they often teach — Torah’s words do not surrender their contextual meaning.) The word “diversity” similarly does not appear in sacred Jewish writings. However, Torah teaching regards all people as God’s creation, created in His image. God extends love to all creatures. (Psalm 145) A midrash (Mishnah Sanhedrin 4:5) channels human diversity to illustrate God’s greatness — whereas coins are minted and each is the same, from a single stamp, i.e., from Adam and Eve, God creates a unique human each time. Perhaps (I am speculating) the absence of the words tolerance and diversity is because they are too abstract, too prone to misapplication without limitation. In See RABBI GORDON on page 24
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When it comes to raising our children, Judaism says punishments are not cool BY MIMI DAVID
“Mommy, Yoni made me look like a boy!” It was 7 a.m. and I had been up all night with the kids. Finally about 5:30 a.m., things settled and I fell into a deep and much needed sleep. When my daughter came to share this exciting development with me, I was almost delirious. Through my half-closed eyes and in my exhausted state, it looked like she had smeared Vaseline all over her hair (again), causing her long bottle curls to stick to her head so that she looked “like a boy.” I was too tired to deal with it right then, and I just grunted and went back to sleep. (In case you’re wondering, Dawn dishwashing soap gets Vaseline out of hair.) My oblivion lasted only a few more minutes when my husband came home from morning services. I jumped up with a start when I heard him say, “Why is there hair all over the place?” And in a more panicky voice he called out, “Who got the scissors?!” Suddenly, I knew what she meant when she said, “Yoni made me look like a boy.” And it was not funny. It turned out that
Yoni had cut off all her hair. Every. Last. Strand. Her long bottle curls were gone, cut off to the scalp. She even had some bald spots in places where he cut really close. I was not happy, to put it mildly. My delicious 3-year-old daughter looked horrific. I was scared to bring her out in public, worrying what people would think. Crying, I called my mother who, of course, thought the whole thing was hilarious. When I finally calmed down, I called a friend who cut hair professionally to come help. In the end, my daughter wore hats for a few weeks until the bald spots filled in, and then it took about a year for her hair to grow back fully. You are probably wondering what consequence we gave Yoni. What do you do to a 5-year-old who does something like this? The answer may surprise you, but I promise I will explain. We did nothing. Nothing! OK, not totally nothing. We did explain to him that scissors are only for cutting paper and that they can only be used when an adult is watching. We let him know that haircutting is a job only for professionals, and we hid the scissors. But that was it. No punishment, no conse-
quence, nothing. When it comes to raising kids, Judaism says that punishments are not cool. Consequences are, as long they fit the crime that was committed. There’s a caveat, though. If a child does something wrong that is completely age appropriate and it is something he or she will not ever do as an adult, then no consequence is necessary. Our sages tell us that educating our kids means not making a big deal over something they will most definitely grow out of and not do when they grow up. When a child does something wrong, parents can and should have the child correct the mistake if possible. But if it is something he or she will not do as an adult, Judaism says that is enough. No need to lecture, no need to punish. I’ll give you an example: Your 3-year-old colors all over the wall with markers. My favorite is when they write their name on the wall and then deny it was them. Yes, she should wash it off. Hand her a magic eraser and show her how to clean it up. That’s it. No yelling, no lecturing, no time out, nothing else is necessary. Adults do not color on the walls, and kids who do it do not need any more
Mimi David is Director of Women’s Education at Aish St. Louis and she has been a longtime teacher at Esther Miller Bais Yaakov of St. Louis. She is also a certified Mikvah Mentor and a professional dating coach. discipline than simply being told to clean up their mess. As parents we take our job of raising our kids very seriously. Sometimes, maybe a little too seriously. A child who is acting like a child needs our guidance, but save the real discipline for things like character development, sharing and caring — those things that are important for them to be and do when they grow up. As for Yoni, he is now a married adult and has not cut off anyone’s hair since that episode. We did warn his wife about his haircutting abilities when they were engaged, just in case. We are fairly confident, though, that he grew up and out of this stage and won’t ever do it again.
REACTIONS TO HOSTAGE ` AT TEXAS SYNAGOGUE
Will devotion to dialogue stop us from understanding another synagogue attack? seen over the past two decades since 9/11, every time an Islamist is behind an act of terrorism, the desire to avoid fueling a The first and most important reaction backlash against Muslims is often so to the latest attack upon an American great that it helps create a counter-narrasynagogue must be prayers of thanksgiv- tive in which the main takeaway is ing for the fact that neither Rabbi Charlie always to speak of the main danger being Cytron-Walker nor any members of condoning more Islamophobia, rather Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, than Islamist terrorism or those who supTexas, was harmed after being taken port or rationalize it. hostage. The 11-hour ordeal ended when That, of course, was very different Malik Faisal Akram, a 44-year-old British from the reaction to past synagogue national, was shot dead by an FBI SWAT attacks, where those responsible were team that entered the synagogue in a identified as right-wing extremists. suburb of Fort Worth. Under those circumstances, many in the But once we express our gratitude at Jewish community were quick to jump to this outcome, is it permissible conclusions about what might to discuss what or who might have somehow inspired the have helped inspire the terrorincidents, no matter how tenuist assault on a house of worous the connection. ship? The antisemitic murderer Perhaps not. who attacked a Pittsburgh Since the attacker was a synagogue in 2018 conMuslim seeking to free a notodemned former President rious Islamist terrorist who is Donald Trump in his online widely considered either a herravings for being a friend of oine or victim of Islamophobic Jonathan S. Tobin Israel and the Jews. Yet many persecution by some in the is editor in chief of in the organized Jewish world Muslim community, the JNS (Jewish News were ready to connect Trump instincts of many Americans, Syndicate). Follow to the atrocity because they including Jews, is to downplay him on Twitter at: @ considered the tone of his rhetthe specifics. Instead, there jonathans_tobin. oric or his attacks on political will be a great deal of talk foes or opposition to illegal about the need for greater security at immigration to be responsible for motisynagogues and other Jewish institu- vating the killer, who, among other reations, which is both constructive and to sons, hated liberal Jews for supporting the point. More than that, there will be a immigrants. Many even protested desire on the part of many Jews to Trump’s entirely appropriate decision to emphasize above all the need to avoid visit the synagogue and show solidarity any finger-pointing, dot-connecting or with a Jewish community to which he comments about the incident that might has ties of both blood and shared love of impinge on our desire for good relations the Jewish state. Indeed, it is an article of and continued dialogue with American faith among many political liberals that Muslims or the groups that purport to Trump is an antisemite or an enabler of represent them. And if that means simply antisemites, and they see incidents like moving on from the incident as quickly the deadly attacks in Pittsburgh and as possible, then all the better. Poway, Calif., as providing, among other To the extent that this indicates that no things, proof of the justification for their one should blame innocent Muslims who accusation. have nothing to do with this, then that is See TOBIN on page 22 entirely correct. However, as we have
Jews and Muslims can walk a common path. Dr. King showed us how.
BY JONATHAN TOBIN JNS.ORG
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BY EBOO PATEL & RABBI JOSHUA STANTON
In 1957, at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered words whose wisdom continue to resound today: “For the person who hates, the true becomes false and the false becomes true. That’s what hate does. You can’t see right. The symbol of objectivity is lost. Hate destroys the very structure of the personality of the hater.” When a weekend meant to commemorate Dr. King was shattered by the hostage-taking at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas, we called upon each other as longtime friends and colleagues to find a better path forward for our respective communities. We feared that hate could disrupt the relationship that we had long shared and held dear. Because the hostage-taker was a Muslim man apparently intent on freeing a Muslim women convicted on terrorism charges, opportunists are already hard at work exploiting our trauma in order to pit Muslims and Jews against each other. In the spirit of Dr. King, equally embodied in the tireless bridge-building of Rabbi Charles Cytron-Walker of Congregation Beth Israel, we feel called to explore a new blueprint for how we can resist the temptation to allow hate to beget hate. This is but an initial sketch, no doubt with much input needed from lay leaders and clergy from across the Muslim and Jewish communities. First, we need to change the story. Extremists are of no faith tradition but their own: extremism. We need to stop framing the conversation as community against community, so much as Muslims and Jews together against a common enemy. We need to call out and sideline extremists, leaving them isolated in their own camp. To that end, we suggest reflecting on the hostage-taker at Beth Israel as an extremist from the United Kingdom with heinous goals unbefitting any faith. Second, we need to tirelessly build bridges among the rest of us. We are all
Eboo Patel (left) is founder and president of the Interfaith Youth Core and author of the forthcoming book, “We Need to Build.” Joshua Stanton is rabbi of East End Temple in Manhattan, Senior Fellow of CLAL – The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership, and coauthor of the forthcoming book, “Awakenings.” feeling isolated after two years of pandemic. We need to go out of our way to call friends, neighbors and relatives across lines of faith just to reaffirm the significance of relationship. Today, in the wake of Saturday’s trauma, Muslims should call their Jewish friends. Tomorrow, unfortunately, in a world brimming with hate, it may need to be the other way around. The rest of the time, both should call — and call upon — each other. Third, we need to develop a knowledge and appreciation of each other’s traditions. It is easy to fear an “other” that you do not understand. We need to visit each other’s houses of worship, read each other’s sacred texts, learn how people live out the tenets of their faith and culture, understand how each tradition inspires Jews and Muslims to serve others, and how we all struggle with challenging concepts and ideas in our respective faiths. Fourth, we need to expand our existing infrastructure of collaboration. The American Jewish Committee’s MuslimJewish Advisory Council holds the potential to expand its regional reach and engage hundreds more leaders across the country. Local collaborations, such as See COMMENTARY on page 16
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A pre-WWII ‘What if?’ at heart of spy thriller BY CATE MARQUIS SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT
We know the outcome after the 1938 Munich Agreement, which was signed after British and French leaders met with Hitler and agreed to let Germany take the mostly ethnically German Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia, in a failed bid to head off World War II by appeasing Hitler, who claimed to have no further territorial ambitions. But what if British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain knew about Hitler’s true, bigger plans for conquest? That is the “what-if” premise of “Munich: The Edge of War,” a smart, entertaining and well-researched mix of history and ticking-clock spy thriller, starring George MacKay (star of the Oscar winning “1917”) as a young British diplomatic aide and Jeremy Irons as British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain. The story is set mostly around the 1938 Munich Conference, where the British and French prime ministers, Neville Chamberlain (Jeremy Irons) and Edouard Daladier (Stephane Boucher) are trying to hammer out an agreement they hope will prevent the war they fear will follow if Hitler invades Czechoslovakia, as he has announced. Two former friends, who attended Oxford together, but who now work for opposing governments, British Hugh Legat (MacKay) and German Paul von Hartmann (Jannis Niewohner), must reconnect and covertly work together to deliver a document to the British Prime Minister that reveals Hitler’s true plan for territorial expansion. Niewohner’s von Hartmann is an anti-Hitler German who is part of a German plot to remove the Fuhrer, led by General Hans Oster. But the plot can’t move forward unless Hitler invades Czechoslovakia, exposing his intentions to the German people, who fear another war. When von Hartmann comes in possession of a document detailing Hitler’s plan for European conquest, he hatches a plan to get the document to the British Prime Minister through his former friend Legat, who is a minor dip-
George MacKay (above left), Jeremy Irons (above right), Sandra Huller and Jannis Niewohner (left) are shown in ‘Munich - The Edge of War.’ PHOTOS: FREDERIC BATIER/NETFLIX
lomat with Chamberlain’s staff. While the central story is fictional, there is a lot of real history here. There really was a German plot to remove Hitler from power, led by General Hans Oster, in 1938,
and Niewohner’s character is partially inspired by the diplomat Adam von Trott zu Solz, who was part of that. But the film’s plot about getting secret information to Chamberlain is fictional.
In September 1938, after several attempts to negotiate with Hitler over plans to invade Czechoslovakia over the Sudetenland, British, French, Italian and German leaders met, without the Czechoslovakians, in another attempt to dissuade Hitler from invading Czechoslovakia, something the British and French feared would trigger a new world war. With assurances from Hitler that he had no other territorial ambitions, Chamberlain signed the 1938 Munich agreement that allow Germany to take the Sudetenland without an invasion. Chamberlain’s appeasement of Hitler was a critical turning point in the events leading to WWII, encouraging Hitler to put his plans for conquest in motion, and it sealed Chamberlain’s legacy with the stamp of appeasement. See FILM continued on opposite page
Five new series and a film offer something for all friends, are jarred by the sudden death of a mutual friend. They decide that that “life is short” and they have to take chances to I was asleep at the wheel last month shake up their lives. In other words, pivot when “American Auto,” an NBC sit-com from what they have been doing. about a Detroit-based auto company, GINNIFER GOODWIN, 43, plays Jodie, “sneak previewed” its first two episodes. I one of the three friends. Her most memojust caught up with those episodes, which rable roles include playing the third wife are free to view on Peacock and online. of a polygamous renegade Mormon in New episodes air Tuesdays at 8 p.m. “Big Love” on HBO (2006-2011); a Basic plot: a car company, called Payne, romance-seeking young woman in the hit is struggling and its new CEO (Ana film “He’s Just Not That into You” (2010); Gasteyer) has no auto industry experi- and Snow White on the ABC series “Once ence. The flaky Payne top execs don’t help Upon a Time” (2011-2018). her much. They include Wesley (JON Goodwin, who grew up in Memphis, is BARINHOLTZ, 42), the airhead the daughter of a non-Jewish father grandson of the company’s and a Jewish mother. She was founder. raised both Jewish and The series was created and Unitarian (with more expowritten by JUSTIN SPITZER, sure to Judaism). In 2013, she 44. He’s best known for creatsaid that she had left religion ing and writing the behind her 10 years before, NBC “Superstore” series, but she had recently made a which ran for six seasons. His choice to embrace Judaism. wife, JENNA BANS, 47, is best Premiering on Jan. 20 is Ginnifer Goodwin known for creating and writing “Single Drunk Female,” a comethe NBC series “Good Girls,” which aired dy/drama series (Freeform channel/app, 10 for four seasons. p.m.). SOPHIA BLACK-D’ELIA, 29, stars as “Pivoting,” a dramedy series, premiered Samantha Fink, an irreverent alcoholic who on Jan. 9 (9 p.m. on Fox). Here’s the prem- gets into trouble. She avoids jail by moving ise: three middle aged women, who are in with her smothering mother (played by
BY NATE BLOOM
SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT
2022-01-19 page 10-11.indd 10
’80s “brat pack” star ALLY SHEEDY, 59). newcomers. There are no Jewish characBoth actresses have non-Jewish fathers and ters in the first season. However, Jewish mothers. Black-D’Elia calls herself MORGAN SPECTOR, 41, whose father is Jewish and Sheedy has always been secular. Jewish, has a juicy part as George Russell, “As We See It” is an American series a classic “new money” robber baron. I susbased on “On the Spectrum,” an interna- pect in future seasons wealthy Jewish tionally acclaimed Israeli series. All eight, characters will brush up against the old first season “As We See It” episodes will guard. This was the case in later seasons begin streaming on Amazon Prime on of “Downton Abbey.” Jan. 21. The Amazon series, like the “Cyrano,” a musical based on the Israeli series, centers on three famous play “Cyrano De young-ish, autistic persons who Bergerac,” played one theater in live in a hostel for adults with Los Angeles last month to be autism. The hostel staff tries Oscar-eligible. It will open in a to transition these folks into limited number of theaters on independent living. Jan. 21 or 28 and may RICK GLASSMAN, 37, an “expand” in following weeks. American comedian, who has The musical “Cyrano” was first Asperger’s syndrome (a form of an off-Broadway show (2018). It autism), plays one of the three Rick Glassman got good, if not stellar reviews. main characters in the Amazon Peter Dinklage (Tyrion in “Game series. “As We See It” was created by of Thrones”) stars as Cyrano. JASON KATIMS, 61, a veteran show-writThe music for the stage and film verer/producer. He is the father of an autistic sions was composed by twin brothers child. AARON and BRYCE DESSNER, 45. They “The Gilded Age” premieres on HBO on are members of The National, a popular Jan. 24. This “prestige” series was created rock band. The brothers are “Jewishlyby, and written by Julian Fellowes, the Brit involved.” While in college, Aaron worked who created and wrote “Downton Abbey.” at a Holocaust archive. When The National It follows the clash, in the 1880s, between played Poland, he arranged an Auschwitz the old money New York City elite and rich tour for the band and its crew.
1/18/22 5:32 PM
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JEWISH LIGHT
AMY FENSTER BROWN
Page 11
Here’s some collected wisdom, and you can quote me BY AMY FENSTER BROWN
landed in my notes app.
It’s time for a mid-January check-in. How are you doing on your New Year’s resolutions? I have a perfect track record for the first time in my life. That’s because my 2022 resolution was to no longer make New Year’s resolutions. I outsmarted the system! All that pressure to promise to do something bums me out. It would be great to just try my best most of the time and accept imperfection, to allow myself some days off from trying and to strive for progress over perfection. It sounds like I’ve spent some time in the self-help section of the library. Maybe I have. In addition, I have a couple of close friends who are therapists, a few others who are in therapy and the friends who are therapists also in therapy. They’re like the Holy Grail for me. I grab pearls of wisdom from them any time I can. In a move that is meant to be a compliment but probably comes off as super weird, I type their quotes in the notes app on my phone. They see me do it. I often ask them to repeat what they said, ask them to talk about where they came up with it or what it means to them, and then I think about it. “Wait, Amy! This isn’t very funny,” you say. “You’re supposed to write about funny stuff!” Yes, I am. But mixed into my well of jokes are some gems of information that fill the noncomedic crevices of my soul. I’m sure these aren’t all original thoughts and quotes. I’m sure they’ve been passed along from friend to therapist and back again. I don’t care, I’m just glad they
“When you act like an ostrich and bury your head in the sand, you end up leaving your backside exposed.” I love this one. When you ignore something that’s happening and avoid dealing with it, another issue is very likely to sneak up on you. I know this quote is meant to remind us to deal with the issues head on and that when you choose not to, don’t be surprised when some other issue surprises you.
20/20, but it sounds so much more meaningful. Like you could justify your mess-up even more by realizing there are new facts you didn’t have when you did whatever that dumb thing was that you’ve been kicking yourself for. It’s a good quote to remember to end all that self-kicking. “We don’t have crappy desks like this in my home.” This was my response to my fifth-grade teacher when she said, “Amy, get your feet off the desk. Do you do this to the furniture in your own home?” Not a big lesson to learn here, I just wanted to throw in something funny to break up all of this deep introspection.
“Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of nowhere. And sometimes in the middle of nowhere you find yourself.” This was from some picture book of sloths doing yoga that one girl in my mahjong group gave another girl in my mahjong group. Cute. Sloths are really having a moment right now. The one in this book does tough yoga poses and spews quotes about life. It managed to accomplish a lot in an ironic twist of fate, because sloths are known for being sluggish, slow and adorable. If those traits are what it took to get a book published, I’d be a best-selling author.
“Embrace the mess. That’s where the good stuff lives.” This is probably supposed to remind us to enjoy the process and not just the outcome, to enjoy the journey and not just the destination, and also to remember that the mess is usually where you find your keys. “When the going gets tough, your mom gets tougher.” My son’s third-grade teacher totally knows what this quote means based on that time she didn’t think before she spoke to my child in an aggressive way and was greeted by me the next morning saying the exact same sentence back to her and asking her how it made her feel. Don’t mess with moms. Just don’t.
“When you’re looking through your rearview mirror, you have new facts to consider.” This is a new way of saying hindsight is Monthly columnist Amy Fenster Brown is married to Jeff and has two teenage sons, Davis and Leo. She volunteers for several Jewish not-for-profit groups. Fenster Brown is an Emmy Award-winning TV news writer and counts time with family and friends, talking and eating peanut butter among her hobbies.
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thing terrific, important and/or insightful. Or their story will continue to go nowhere while you listen politely and realize the good thing in the quiet moments is when someone is actually OK just being quiet. “In life you make decisions. And if they don’t work out you just make a new decision.” I heard some actor say this on a podcast. He made it sound so easy, to be able to simply change your focus or direction when your original plan didn’t go the way you hoped it would. “Take a risk, jump off the cliff and figure it out on the way down.” Said by a different actor on a different podcast. These actors really spit out some philosophical words. I don’t know whether they truly mean it or they’re, well, acting. The message is great, if you can actually figure it out before you splat … literally and figuratively. “If a ship veers off course by even 1 degree it will end up in an entirely different place than it was supposed to go.” I take this two ways. If you go off direction even the tiniest bit, you could find yourself in an exciting unplanned adventure, and that could be cool. Or if you go off direction even the tiniest bit, you could end up nowhere close to what you planned and worked for, and that could really suck. Sounds like a glass half empty vs. glass half full scenario. And finally, a quote from my husband, Jeff Brown, who likes to keep things simple, factual and in perspective. “They know me at the bank, and they know me at Lion’s Choice … two great places to be known.”
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Page 12
January 19, 2022
STL
JEWISH LIGHT
stljewishlight.org
2021-2022 Ohr Chadash Teen Page Staff Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Eisen Staff members: Idan Lerner Molly Levine Poppy Orchard Noah Sentnor Daniel Shanker Katie Silver Ryan Silver Avital Vorobeychik Advisor: Caroline Goldenberg
Student’s nonprofit helps cheer kids in area hospitals BY MOLLY LEVINE JUNIOR, MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
For children, hospital stays often can be not only scary but also mundane. With hours of time to fill and a lack of engaging activities, children in hospitals are eager to find something new and entertaining to do from their rooms. Tamar Adler, a senior at Fontbonne University and congregant of Young Israel, has made an effort within the past year to spread cheer and joy among kids in hospitals throughout the St. Louis area. By establishing her nonprofit organization, Cheery Charlie, Adler has positively affected countless kids by providing about 2,500 craft kits to kids in pediatric units. “I have always loved kids,” Adler said. “I really feel especially connected to children in the hospital, so I decided to start Cheery Charlie as a way to give back to these kids.” The organization, while named after her beloved pet dog, also alludes to another member of her family, her brother. Apart from her love of children, Adler’s connection to kids, specifically in the hospital, was fostered through experience. “In June 2020, my younger brother was in a bike accident, and he was rushed to Children’s Hospital,” she said. “One of the people on his care team was a child life specialist, so I became really interested in this field. I definitely learned a lot about the child life department in many children’s hospitals and that they rely a lot on donations.” Child life specialists are health care pro-
fessionals who provide emotional support for children and families in medical settings. After interacting with a child life specialist who provided support to her family, Adler created Cheery Charlie to benefit both these health care workers and their young patients. Adler worked with a lawyer specializing in establishing nonprofits, applied to Missouri for a tax number and put together a board of directors. In December 2020, Adler established Cheery Charlie. “The purpose of Cheery Charlie is to provide cheer to kids in the hospital,” Adler said. “I donate 300 individually packaged craft bags once a month to St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Usually, my craft bags are holiday or seasonally themed.” Adler has recently begun also donating to other area hospitals, including Mercy and Barnes-Jewish. From early on, Adler has operated Cheery Charlie on her own time with minimal outside assistance. “I did not really find it difficult [to create my organization],” she said. “It just required a lot of creativity. I wanted my organization to be unique and 100% devoted to kids in hospitals. I also didn’t really have any help starting Cheery Charlie. I organize all of the donations, and I am constantly working on fundraising to purchase items. I make all of the craft bags, and I donate them monthly myself.” In addition to running her organization, Adler also attends several classes as a fashion merchandising major at Fontbonne University.
Tamar Adler distributes fun-filled craft bags for children in hospitals across St. Louis with her pet dog, Charlie. “Attending Fontbonne while also running Cheery Charlie definitely keeps me extremely busy, but I love it,” she said. “Because my classes have been remote, although this past semester they have been 50/50, I have been home a lot more. It’s given me a lot more time to work on [the craft bags].” Although the pandemic has prohibited Adler from other in-person volunteer opportunities, it essentially gave her a gift in return: time. In addition to providing Adler with more time, the pandemic has ironically helped Cheery Charlie to flourish. “I started Cheery Charlie as a way to volunteer from home hoping that in a few months I would be allowed to volunteer in person,” she said. “Then the pandemic dragged on … but it really helped Cheery Charlie take off.” Despite being created only a little over a year ago, Cheery Charlie already has proved successful and popular. And even as Adler’s charity continues to grow, the small moments are what remain important to her. “My most memorable moment would be receiving my first thank you letter from a
child life specialist at Mercy Hospital,” Adler said. “She absolutely loved the craft bags and so did all of the kids.” With limited access to outside interaction and activity, the craft bags act as an outlet for creativity and offer the kids a different source of hands-on entertainment and enjoyment. “I am definitely impacting thousands of sick kids in the hospital,” Adler said. “I think I am making them feel special by giving them a little token gift that they can do themselves.” As Adler looks to the future, she hopes to help more hospitalized children by further expanding her organization. “My hope for Cheery Charlie is to expand into more hospitals, making more craft bags,” Adler said. “I would love to keep running it myself. I like knowing that I am the one who is making all of the craft bags. I also know, depending on how big the organization gets, I might need some help, but my goal is to keep expanding.” She plans to eventually attend graduate school and later pursue a future career in child life.
Teen overcomes hurdles in enlisting in Israel Defense Forces BY IDAN LERNER PARKWAY CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL, SENIOR
For many people living in Israel, joining the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is seen as a rite of passage. It is a celebrated, albeit required, moment that a child becomes an adult, much like graduating from high school or the first day of college in the United States. And while people living outside of Israel, whether Israeli themselves or non-Israeli Jews, have the option to join, some decide to go into the IDF and fight for the Jewish state. Ilai Kielmanowicz, a native Israeli and senior at Parkway Central, is signing up to join the IDF. “I wanted to join because I thought it was my civic duty,” said Kielmanowicz, who is unaffiliated. “[Additionally,] it builds internal character, helps you understand your position in the world, and connects you with people you otherwise wouldn’t know.” Joining the IDF, especially from outside Israel, requires a lengthy process of applications and examinations. Kielmanowicz grew up in Israel and moved to America in middle school.
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“In the summer of 2021, I went to start my first order,” Kielmanowicz said. “The first order is when you are given an intelligence test, a Hebrew comprehension test, a medical exam and an interview.” These steps can also vary based on the person who is applying. Since Kielmanowicz is Israeli, there were some issues with citizenship. “My process was different from someone who is actually American because I had to exempt myself from the draft and then reintroduce myself into the army,” Kielmanowicz said. Differences dependent on background and education exist, in addition to nationality. “Usually the intelligence test is in Hebrew, but you can take it in English. [The English test] is shorter and focuses more on reading comprehension than math, for example,” Kielmanowicz said. The language-based test variations led to Kielmanowicz’s first issue. Since he is fluent in Hebrew, he took the Hebrew test, but he still encountered some issues since he hasn’t lived in Israel for several years. “I was given the test in Hebrew, which was a struggle because I hadn’t seen [spe-
Ilai Kielmanowicz cialized] Hebrew words [such as advanced math],” Kielmanowicz said. “I tried to retest, but [the IDF refused].” Unfortunately, a poor test score could be detrimental since test scores determine which units a person is allowed to join. “Think of the intelligence test like the ACT,” Kielmanowicz said. “You get a certain score, and that determines where in
the army you can go.” A lower score means fewer options, so it’s important to have as high a score as possible. “I have a score of 50, which is the average in Israel,” Kielmanowicz said. “Many roles that I want, such as international interpreter or communications analyst, are blocked for me because I don’t have a high enough score.” This issue was resolved, however, and the process continues. “After I complained, I was allowed to retake the test,” Kielmanowicz said. “[While] military protocol is rigid, the people there understand and want to help. “If you volunteer from the U.S. your chances of serving in a combat role are higher. More advanced positions require more interviews and meetings with Israeli officials, and Americans have a more [constrained] time period to complete these.” Currently, he doesn’t know what exactly will be the outcome of this process. “My retest isn’t scheduled yet,” Kielmanowicz said. “I don’t know what positions are available to me, or which one I will eventually end up in, but I’m excited to serve my country.”
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COOKIN’ WITH KATESTER
This beet salad is suprisingly easy — and tasty BY KATIE SILVER LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL, SENIOR
“Ooh? For me?” I said, coming home to what I knew was my mom’s lunch for herself. “You can have some,” my mom replied. (She knew I would try it anyway.) In the bowl on the counter was a bunch of fruits and vegetables: avocado, cucumber, peppers, beets, etc. But … they looked good? Carefully, I decided to take a bite. Shortly after, my mom’s only lunch turned into my second lunch. A few days later, I decided to learn how to make it for myself, and it was surprisingly easy. This recipe allows for a lot of creativity in what you add, but I’ll explain how I love to make it, and some variations. Please note: the ingredient amount varies based on taste, and the numbers are approximations, not measurements.
Tasty Beet Salad Prep time: 35 minutes; Cook time 1-2 minutes INGREDIENTS: ½ avocado ½ beet 1/8 cup feta cheese 1 mini cucumber ¼ cup chopped banana peppers (Alternate options: bell pepper, chickpea, tomatoes) 1 tsp. Cavender’s Greek seasoning 1 lemon 1-1½ tbsp. of olive oil Salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: Cut up all ingredients and place in bowl. Sprinkle feta cheese on vegetables and mix. For dressing, squeeze one lemon into the bowl and add olive oil. Sprinkle Greek seasoning on top. Use salt and pepper for taste and enjoy!
PHOTO: KATIE SILVER
COMMENTARY: JORDAN’S JOTS
Teen Page editor offers his Super Bowl predictions this Super Bowl really comes down to whichever team gets hot at the right time. If Matthew Stafford stops throwing mind-numbing interceptions for the Rams and the Bengals stay hot, we could see that matchup. If Kyler Murray and the Cardinals get back on track, I wouldn’t be
BY JORDAN EISEN PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL, SENIOR
I could be wrong, but this has felt like the wildest season in NFL history. For the most part, the teams that we thought would be good made the playoffs, and the teams that we thought would be bad did not. However, every team headlining the list of Super Bowl favorites suffered a mind-boggling loss at some point during the season, and several of these teams are also limping into the playoffs. The New Orleans Saints demolished the Green Bay Packers, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are riddled with injuries and the Dallas Cowboys haven’t beaten a good quarterback since Week 2. And that’s just the top NFC teams. In the AFC, the Tennessee Titans’ offense doesn’t work without Derrick Henry, the Kansas City Chiefs played half of the season with a dysfunctional offense, the Cincinnati Bengals lost to Mike White and the New York Jets. Nevertheless, one team from the NFC will play one team from the AFC in the Super Bowl. Although the Packers did allow five passing touchdowns to Jameis Winston and the Saints in Week 1, they seem like the most well-rounded team in the NFL. On offense, Aaron Rodgers is undeniably the MVP, Davante Adams is truly unstoppable, and Aaron Jones with AJ Dillon make up a rushing attack that can take over a game. Most interestingly, the Packers defense has taken a huge step this season and should be good enough to finally take the Cheeseheads past the NFC Championship game, where their season has ended the past two seasons. Injured superstar Jaire Alexander will join the likes of breakout linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, journeyman Rasul Douglas and top defensive tackle Kenny Clark. But the season has still been a rollercoaster for the Packers with COVID controversy and nerve-racking games that shouldn’t have been close. But when scouring their roster, there are no holes. They are my pick to win the NFC. The AFC is a lot more interesting because it’s completely dependent on one person: Derrick Henry. The Titans’ running back was having an unprecedented season in which he seemed on track to
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MORE ONLINE Listen to Jordan Eisen’s podcast “Field of Vision Sports” in which he interviews professional guests from ESPN, CBS, etc. wherever you get your podcasts or join 7,000 people in following @fov_sports on Instagram. win the MVP (something a running back hasn’t done since Adrian Peterson in 2012) before he broke his foot in Week 8. Now, especially with Titans securing a first-round bye, Henry may be able to return for the playoffs. But even if does, he might not be completely healthy and capable of managing a full workload. Therefore, I can’t say that the Titans are my pick for the Super Bowl. It would be very on-brand this season if a random team like the Bills caught fire and won it all, but that’s not a logical prediction either. My pick for the AFC is the Chiefs. The stats may look like their offense has completely returned to form, but that’s simply not the case. The Chiefs’ early season woes were brought upon them by teams defending them with two high safeties, but recently teams have stopped utilizing that widely successful scheme. Perhaps they’re afraid of Chiefs running back Darrel Williams or don’t think they have the personnel. Picking the Chiefs is certainly a risk, as a team could just devise a game plan and halt the Chiefs’ offensive wagon, but the other competition in the AFC is so weak (provided Henry isn’t himself) that it’s a risk I’m willing to take. Although I do think that the Packers and Chiefs are pretty clearly their conference’s most well-rounded teams, I think
IS R A E L T R AV E L GR A N T S
surprised; the same is true for literally any other combination of teams. I’m not sure how we’ll get there, but I have confidence in one thing: This year’s Super Bowl will match the season and be one of the wildest of all time. Packers over Chiefs, 34-29.
Jewish Federation of St. Louis believes in the positive impact of travel to Israel, and we are offering financial support to help make that experience possible.
GR A N T A W A R D S Year-long program
$1,750
Semester-long program
$1,250
Short-term program
$750
• Open to St. Louis teens who have completed ninth grade and young adults up to age 27. • Minimum length stay of three weeks for teens. For young adults, minimum length stay of two weeks. • Grants are for travel on a peer-based experience. Stuart I. Pessin Merit-Based Scholarship Application is now open. Deadline to apply is February 4, 2022. Four teens will receive $1,250 for travel to Israel in 2022. To apply, visit: JFedSTL.org/Israel-Center. For more information, contact Jody Gerth at 314-442-3881 or JGerth@JFedSTL.org.
120 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
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HEALTHWATCH
STL
JEWISH LIGHT
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BROUGHT TO YOU THIS MONTH BY:
Healthwatch is a monthly feature focusing on a health- or fitness-related topic with a Jewish angle. The feature is published the second edition of each month. Have a suggestion for a potential Healthwatch subject? Email news@stljewishlight.org.
At the Center of It All
Israel finds 4th vaccine dose not as effective vs. Omicron BY ABIGAIL KLEIN LEICHMAN ISRAEL21C.ORG
Preliminary results of the world’s first study of a fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccines – the second “booster” dose – indicate it is not effective enough against the current Omicron variant of the SARSCoV-2 virus. The study is taking place at Israel’s largest hospital, Sheba Medical Center. “These are very preliminary results, and this is before any publication, but we’re giving it out because we understand the urgency of the public to get any information possible about the fourth
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dose,” said lead researcher Dr. Gili RegevYochay, chief of Sheba’s Infectious Disease Unit. It has been two weeks since the first group of 154 Sheba medical personnel received the fourth Pfizer dose and one week after another 120 employees I N F O RMAT I O N C E N T E R N OW O P E N ! received a Moderna booster. Both groups previously had three doses of the Pfizer CALL 314-789-8173. vaccine. “What we see with the Pfizer vaccine after two weeks is a pretty nice increase in the number of antibodies – even a little Independent Living ■ Assisted Living ■ Memory Care ABOVE: Healthcare workers receive a Modhigher than we had after the third dose – Monday evening. Information Center yet this is probably not enough for the Community She based that conclusion on Sheba’s erna booster vaccine at Sheba Medical Center ClarendaleClaytonLIFE@ClarendaleClayton.com Clayton Road Clayton #103 on Jan. 5. PHOTO BY AVSHALOM SASSONI/FLASH90 Omicron,” Regev-Yochay told reporters 7651 ongoing serology 7700 studies of Road vaccinated
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healthcare workers. “We know by now that the level of antibodies needed to protect from getting infected with Omicron is probably too high for the vaccine. Despite being vaccinated, people are getting infected — perhaps a slightly lower level of infections compared to the control group — and that’s probably not good enough.” She added that the third dose resulted in many more antibodies in terms of quantity and quality than were formed after two doses. “What we see right now [after the fourth dose] is an increase in number similar to what we saw after the third dose, meaning it’s not really a booster. We see a light improvement and if we were still in the Alpha or Delta [phases] maybe we’d be in a much better state. But since Omicron is so infectious and so much more resistant to the vaccines, we are in a much different state.” So far, there doesn’t seem to be a significant difference in results between the Moderna and Pfizer booster, she added. Regev-Yochay said she believes these findings support the Israeli government’s decision to offer a fourth vaccine to vulnerable populations since “it may give a little benefit. But probably not enough [benefit] to support a decision to give it to all of the population.” However, she did urge that given the rise in COVID-19 among children, kids over the age of five should receive three doses to help prevent serious illness. Regev-Yochay pointed out that newer formulations of the COVID-19 vaccine against the Omicron strain are expected in the spring, and that it’s likely annual COVID shots will be given along with annual flu shots. Abigail Klein Leichman is a writer and associate editor at ISRAEL21c. Prior to moving to Israel in 2007, she was a specialty writer and copy editor at a major daily newspaper in New Jersey and has freelanced for a variety of newspapers and periodicals since 1984. View more Israel21c content at www.Israel21c.org.
It’s where you want to be. CALL 314-789-8173
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Many rabbis were launched toward clergy at Jewish summer camp BY BILL MOTCHAN SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH LIGHT
A Jewish summer camp experience can build skills and character that last well into adulthood. For some kids, the camp experience was meaningful enough that it played a role in their decision to become a rabbi. Rabbi Daniel Bogard of Central Reform Congregation credits his camp experience for doing just that. “The two poles of my Jewish identity as a kid were CRC and Ramot Amoona,” Bogard said. “I lived for those six weeks every summer at Ramot Amoona when I was a kid. They were everything. The rest of the year just pointed toward those six weeks. I know I would not be a rabbi if it were not for that camp.” When he got a little older, Bogard worked at Ramot Amoona for five years and eventually became song leader. “It was the first place I really fell in love with Judaism and dreamed of being a rabbi,” he said. “I spent half a decade as a song leader, and then later administrator and summer assistant director at Camp Sabra.” Bogard still regularly sees his former
camp friends, some of whom became coworkers. “I work with Elana Hertel, who’s the rabbinic administrator here at CRC, and we worked together at Ramot Amoona when we were 17,” he said. His camp connections also include Shira Berkowitz, co-director of PROMO, which advocates for LGBTQ equality. It was their common love of camp that led Bogard and Berkowitz to serve on the leadership and planning team for Camp Indigo Point in Makanda, Ill., a weeklong sleepaway camp for LGBTQ youth that is slated to launch this summer. Like Bogard, Rabbi Amy Feder considers summer camp a significant experience in her Jewish growth. “I never would have found my love for Jewish music or considered the rabbinate if it weren’t for Jewish summer camp,” said Feder, senior rabbi at Congregation Temple Israel. “I remember having that discussion with my classmates at Hebrew Union College, and nearly all of us said that it was Jewish camp that made us want to be clergy.” Feder still has fond memories of Camp Kee-Tov.
Kids in the pyramid photo include: Amanda Cohen Leibu, Jennifer Fishering, Rachel Gottlieb, Renee Biernbaum, Rachael Juehring, Matthew Schuval, Eric Abrams, Rabbi Daniel Bogard, Rabbi Jordan Gerson, Lauren Brenner and Janine Saltman Osofsky. “It wasn’t just that it was a wonderful Jewish camp, which it was, but since it was based in the St. Louis community, it’s pretty amazing how many connections I made that I still have today,” she said. “One of my counselors from when I was a camper, Julie Follman, serves on our TI board; another, Rachel Wallis Andreasson, is TI’s executive director. Many of the kids I was friends with at camp are both friends and
congregants today. “In high school, I became a counselor there. Not only am I still close with several of my co-counselors, but I’ve officiated at weddings and baby namings for quite a few of my campers. It’s a remarkably special twist on the Jewish camping experience, not just the Judaism that was experiSee CAMP on page 16
Camp Micah
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Commentary: Jews and Muslims can walk a common path. Dr. King showed us how. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 that which exists between New York’s Cordoba House and East End Temple, should welcome new partners and look into opportunities for larger-scale programing. College campuses are ideal spaces for interfaith cooperation, especially through projects that combine service, learning and dialogue. Fifth, we need to build entirely new paths to connection. We are working with Rabbi Benjamin Spratt of Congregation Rodeph Sholom in Manhattan to gather a book group for clergy, so that we can study deeply and reflect upon social issues that we can best address together. We need to establish advocacy coalitions to push together for better governmental monitoring of Islamophobia and the overdue confirmation of Dr. Deborah Lipstadt as U.S. Special Envoy to Combat and Monitor Antisemitism. We need to dream about more MuslimJewish community centers and shared spaces for gathering. We need to create a joint fundraising mechanism to seed new ventures and increase resources for grassroots organizations like the Muslim-Jewish Solidarity Committee and the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. We have countless common causes, but have underbuilt mechanisms to act upon them. In honor of Rabbi Cytron-Walker’s heroism and longstanding commitment to interfaith collaboration; in memory of the Dr. King; for the sake of ourselves and our children, we are called to do better. The American Muslim and Jewish communities are vibrant, empowered and open-minded. In the wake of Colleyville, we need to build as never before. Together, we can.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 enced but the Jewish community that was made, first when I was 9, then when I was 17, that built relationships of all kinds that still exist today.” Rabbi Adam Bellows grew up in the Chicago area, so he attended a number of day camps there as well as URJ (Union for Reform Judaism) Osrui in Oconomowoc, Wisc. “For me, Shabbat Shirah was the ultimate,” said Bellows, assistant rabbi at United Hebrew Congregation. “At Osrui, it was after Shabbat In the photo with the six kids, Rabbi Bogard is second from the right and to his left is dinner in Port Hall, a great, Liessa Alperin, director of innovative learning at Congregation B’nai Amoona. round hall. The song leaders, whom I worshipped, stood in the middle, looking attending camp and seeing all of my friends from so beyond cool. All the campers sat around. The songs many different cities and Jewish communities. grew to roars, then quieted back down. It was a spir“The defining aspect of my Jewish camp experiitual rhythm that synced hundreds of young Jews ence was that it was always the place I went outside together. I would feel myself reaching a point of my comfort zone. At camp, I was braver and more ecstasy like those described by the Baal Shem Tov willing to take risks. I never participated in sports at himself. Nothing in my life has compared to those home, but at camp I played on the basketball team evenings of Shabbat Shirah.” and took tennis lessons. Rabbi Lori Levine attended two URJ summer “I felt safe enough in my community to climb the camps throughout her childhood: Camp Harlam in tower, try out for the summer musical and help lead Kunkletown, Pa., and Kutz Camp in Warwick, N.Y. Shabbat services in front of hundreds of people. “The experience of a Jewish overnight camp was When I returned to camp as an adult, first as a counso special to me and really helped shape my identity,” selor and then as a rabbi, it was beautiful to watch my said Levine, rabbi educator at Congregation Shaare kids find that same safe place to challenge themEmeth. “Each summer, I eagerly looked forward to selves that I had.”
Spend the Summer Jewishly, Joyously, Safely We’re welcoming our campers back to Camp Sabra in 2021 for a magical (and safe) summer on the Staenberg Peninsula. We’re consulting with the experts so we are prepared to protect our campers and staff, ensuring another epic Sabra summer!
To view our 2021 Dates & Rates, visit campsabra.com
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Camp: Rabbis found their calling at camp
Return to Sabra!
For more information, contact Kim Holtzman Sloan at 314.442.3151 or kim@campsabra.com
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Camp Ben Frankel
Camp Emeth
campbenfrankel.org
sestl.org/campemeth
New campers are warmly welcomed to our camp family! We highly value being welcoming and inclusive while creating a Jewish environment full of fun, friendships, and excitement. With enrollment capped at 120, our community is intimately connected and every camper can thrive. We strenuously recruit the most passionate role models we can find, offer a mind-boggling 100+ activities from A to Z, have a picturesque lake, and are nestled within the stunning Shawnee National Forest.
Session Dates: June 13 - August 5
314-692-5362
618-235-1614
Camp Emeth is an eight-week Jewish day camp located on the grounds of Congregation Shaare Emeth for campers entering grades K-8. At Camp Emeth, campers of all ages learn new skills, make new friends and enjoy traditional and innovative camp activities. Our goal is to provide a safe, nurturing camp environment where children can learn about their world, discover their strengths and feel connected to our community in the context of Reform Judaism.
For more information contact aaron@campbenfrankel.org
For more information, contact Beth Kodner, bkodner@sestl.org
Welcoming, Inclusive, and Fun! 100+ Activities!
Robust Covid Safety Plan
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Learn more at campbenfrankel.org
Ages 7-17
Makanda, IL
(less than 2 hrs from STL)
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EPSTEIN HEBREW ACADEMY EDUCATING THE WHOLE JEWISH CHILD
Camp Micah 314-569-0048
sestl.org/campmicah
Camp Sabra 314-442-3151 campsabra.com
Session Dates: June 13 - August 11 Ready for a one-of-a-kind leadership and arts camp for young children? Camp Micah at Shirlee Green Preschool is a camp like no other where children ages four and younger are invited to innovate, create, and turn imaginings into stuff they can hold. Invent-O-Rama 2022 is dedicated to the art of imagination and invention! It all leads up to The Big Reveal on the final day of camp where campers get to share their creations. Contact Brandi Cartwright bcartwright@sestl.org
Camp Sabra is the perfect place for a joyous, Jewish summer camp. Our campers spend their days wakeboarding, ziplining, tubing and more. Now more than ever, our children need a place where they can connect with their friends. Whether it is singing around a campfire or getting out of their comfort zone on the ropes course, our campers make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
WE ARE OFFERING 20 JEWISH CHILDREN
ONE YEAR
FREE TUITION
Questions? Contact our director Kim Holtzman Sloan, 314-442-3151.
J Day Camp
YOUR CHILD WILL LEARN, ENJOY & THRIVE
314-442-3432
this 2022
jccstl.com/daycamps Make new friends and learn new skills! J Day Camps gives campers options on their activities – sports, arts, gymnastics and more. Plus, ON-SITE SWIMMING! 78% of 2021 campers improved swim skills. We’re at two convenient locations – Creve Coeur and Chesterfield. ELEVEN weeks of camps and programs for kids ages 3-8th grade. 84% of 2021 campers rated our staff as excellent or very good. Lunch option available Early Bird registration through March 3. ACA accredited.
• • • • • • • • •
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More at jccstl.com/daycamps.
Your Kids Deserve a Fun (and Safe) Summer! Please contact Head of School
RABBI SHMUEL MILLER
for an award application and details.
Early Bird discount through March 5!
11 weeks of Jewish camp On-site swim lessons Sports, Art, Nature, Judaics and more!
314 994 7856 | smiller@eha.org For children entering grades 1 through 10. Applications to be received by 2/15/22. THIS OFFER IS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE
WEISMAN FAMILY SCHOLARS AWARD
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BIRTH: MADISON AVA JOLLY David and Emily Jolly of Chesterfield would like to announce the birth of their daughter, Madison Ava Jolly, on Dec. 9, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Chesterfield, weighing 8 pounds, 7 ounces. Madison is the granddaughter of Steve and Jeanette Jolly of Chesterfield and Larry Goldberg and Kate Scheinman of Dubuque, Iowa. She is the great-granddaughter of the late Sol and Mildred Jolly of St. Louis, the late Sam and Selma Perlin of St. Louis, the late Lester and Dorothy Goldberg of Cranford, N.J., and the late Paul and Annette Bodzin of New York, N.Y.
PHOTO: KATE TIMBERS
KRAINEN-KLEIMAN ENGAGEMENT Carly Krainen, daughter of Cindy and Gordie Krainen of West Bloomfield, Mich., and Elliott Kleiman, son of Lynn and Danny Kleiman of Town and Country have announced their engagement. Carly is the granddaughter of Fred Krainen and the late Marilyn Krainen of West Bloomfield, Mich., and the late Samuel and Dorothy Shepard. Elliott is the grandson of the late Ora and Ralph Levine of St. Louis; the late Manuel Kleiman and the late Eula Bourgeois Kleiman of Lake Charles, La. Carly earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University and she works as an online business manager for Dell Technologies. Elliott earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Southern California and is now a real estate investor. Carly and Elliott met on JSwipe in 2018. Their first date was at Mission Taco in the Loop. Elliott proposed to Carly in 2020 on her birthday at her grandpa’s house in Michigan, with Carly’s parents and grandpa hiding. A September 2022 wedding is planned.
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Allie Winchell, daughter of Cheri and David Winchell of Chesterfield, and Jeremy Gutovitz, son of Susan and Sammy Gutovitz of Overland Park, Kan., have announced their engagement. Allie is the granddaughter of Rose and Warren Becker of Chesterfield; the late Gilda and Buddy Librach of St. Louis; and the late Wyn Winchell of St. Louis. Jeremy is the grandson of the late Celia and Sylvester Sher of Overland Park, Kan.; and the late Bena and Abe Gutovitz of Kansas City, Mo. Allie attended Parkway Central High School and the University of Kansas, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism, specializing in strategic communications; and she works for Media Ocean as a Client Success Manager. Jeremy attended high school at HBHA (Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy) and the University of Kansas, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in biological anthropology; and he is currently a third-year dental student at AT Still University. Allie and Jeremy met their first year at KU, when living in the same dorm. They were
PHOTO: SARAH KLUMP/WHITE-KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY
friends for four years before they began dating after graduation, when living in Kansas City. Jeremy proposed to Allie as they were playing a game of golf at Forest Park. A September 2022 wedding is planned.
GERSTEINS CELEBRATE 65TH ANNIVERSARY On Feb. 10, Harvey and Wilma Gerstein (Tennenbaum) will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary. Life has been good to the couple. At 86 years old, they are both very active, enjoying long daily walks together and traveling to Arizona, where they live in the winter. They look forward to many more years together. They feel extremely lucky to have three wonderful children with caring spouses and seven terrific grandchildren: Larry and Jo Ellen Gerstein (Devin and Tyler), Mindee and Michael Greenberg (Ryan, Adam and Abby Meltzer) and Edie and Niall Jansson
(Amber and Morgan). Although their family is spread out across the world, they love spending time together and are always close in their hearts. They want to thank their many friends and relatives who have made the first 65 years so great!
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SIMCHAS
JEWISH LIGHT
LEVINSONS CELEBRATE 70TH ANNIVERSARY
ADELSTEINS CELEBRATE 60TH ANNIVERSARY Harriet and David Adelstein recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. The couple has three children, Cheryl Adelstein (Dan Davison), Michael Adelstein and Wendy Adelstein, and two grandchildren, Hannah Davison and Mara Davison. Harriet (Noveson) and David Adelstein were married on Dec. 31, 1961 in St. Louis, at La Chateau by Rabbi Jerome Grollman of United Hebrew Congregation. Daughter of the late Eli and Minnie (Bournstein) Noveson, and son of the late Hyman and Esther (Seltzer) Adelstein,
JEWISH CROSSWORD PUZZLE
By Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com | ‘Song Subtraction’ Difficulty: Medium
Across 1. Wife of Yosef 6. Chazal, e.g. 11. Many an Adobe file 14. Mix 15. It doesn’t pay, so they say
37. Produce facial waterfalls 38. *Classic Matisyahu hit 39. Montreal Mrs. 40. Where some travelers come from
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opening words: “___ to rule the world...”
11. Enjoyment (like doughnuts, perhaps)
65. “Dietetic” Actor Harvey who played Morty Melnick in “Meatballs”
12. *Classic “Les Mis” song by Schonberg and Kretzmer
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Marilyn and Marvin Levinson happily announce that they have been married for 70 years. Marilyn lived in University City, attended Flynn Park Elementary School and later taught there for more than 20 years. She and Marv, who lived in Chicago, met when she was attending Nor thwestern University. They were married by Rabbi Julius Gordon of Temple Shaare Emeth and Rabbi Samuel Thurman of United Hebrew, who was a close family friend. They moved to St. Louis, where Marv began working as a micro-biologist at Anheuser-Busch and later went into the practice of law. They celebrated their 70th in their
the couple met and became engaged in 1961 at the wedding of the bride’s cousin, Sarah Doris (Edelstein) to Sanford Willick. The couple have resided in St. Louis for all of their married life. On Dec. 31, 2021, the family held a small party at Spiro’s Chesterfield location to celebrate the couple’s milestone.
JEWISH LITE calculation
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6. Disfigurement 7. Imahot number 8. “Stayin’ Alive” brothers 9. Grunge relative 10. Snuffleupagus’s street
34. Infield mistakes 35. Robert Louis Stevenson villain
1
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43. Final word 45. Yutz 47. Crosswords are way better than this
49. Shatnez parts 51. Lip schmear 53. Producer of waste
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62
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5
home in Olivette with their daughters and sons-in-law, Carol and Max Waggoner; Joan Levinson and Mitchell Abidor, and Stacey and Repps Hudson and their children, Eliana and Daniel.
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January 19, 2022
OBITUARIES
OBITUARY NOTICES UPDATED DAILY AT STLJEWISHLIGHT.ORG/OBITUARIES
PEGGY SUE ALPIRN, January 6, 2022, of Creve Coeur, MO Cherished wife of the late Morton A. “Marty” Alpirn. Loving mother of Dawn J. (Mark) Lynn and the late Mark C. (the late Ingrid) Nebel. Beloved grandmother “Gigi” (Ghee Ghee) of Jocelyn P. (Mark) Theiss, Katie A. Nebel, Andrew C. (Melissa) Lynn, Marlowe M. Lynn, and Bailey E. Lynn. Dear great grandmother of Daniel M. Thiess and Josie Mae Lynn. Beloved sister of the late Wayne Long (WW II), the late Imogene “Jeanie” (the late Pete) Sandvigen, the late Doris (the late Henry) Puls, Joyce (the late Jim) Erickson and Carol (Bill) Dobyns. Loving godmother of Heather Sue Dobyns. Beloved aunt, great aunt, and friend to many. Loving dog mom to many she happily cared for throughout her long life. Private services. Contributions in Peggy’s memory may be made to the Dent County Animal Welfare Society, 5358 South MO-19, Salem, MO, 65560 (www.dcaws.org). TILLIE E. BERGER passed peacefully and gracefully on Tuesday, Jan 3, 2022, in Overland Park, KS. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, cousin, and friend. Tillie was preceded in death by her devoted husband of almost 61 years, Morris R. Berger. Dear mother of Keith Berger, Debra (Joe) Berger-Pfefer and Linda Blondell. Loving grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of ten. Dear sister of Audrey (Bernard) Millman, Maxine Wiggs, the late Bernard (late Millie) Harris, the late Rosalie (late Milton) Harris and the late Eileen (late Jim) Jordan. Loving sister-inlaw of the late Sam (late Lilly) Berger and the late Sylvia (late Manny) Brooks. Beloved daughter of the late Jack and the late Dena Harris. Tillie was born in St. Louis as were both of her parents. Her maternal and paternal grandfathers’ side of the family came from Wladyslaw / (Kudirkos Naumiestis). Their original last name was Kryngiel. Going further back: Pragier, Markman and Berlovich were names in the family. Her paternal grandmothers’ side of the family came from Raciena, Kaunas, Lithuania with the last names Druzinsky and Elman. We are not sure of her maternal grandparents’ original last name. Tillie was a homemaker for most of her life. Her greatest joy was to be with her family, especially the grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Over the years some of her hobbies were bowling, crocheting intricate afghans, embroidery, baking, and gardening. Her specialty was to Bar-B-Que outdoors. Tillie met Morrie in St. Louis at the Highland’s
OBITUARIES INDEX Alpirn, Peggy Sue Berger, Tillie E. Cohen, Stanley William Ferman, David Jeffery Gold, Adrienne Palan Goodman, Marilyn Rose Gralnick, Stanton J. Horlick, Maynard Kaplan, Doris M. Kasten, Rosalie
Kornblum, Leonard A. Lacks, Jerome S. “Jerry” Lefton, Marlene Levine, Janice Leslie Glasser Liebhaber, Dr. Harvey Roth, Evelyn T. Rubin, Robert “Bob” Sigel, Shea Willett, Clark Anthony Wolf, Sandra
amusement park in Forest Park. They were both out with friends. The two groups started chatting, Morrie asked Tillie for a light for his cigarette (which she did not have!). Tillie and Morrie enjoyed going on cruises and fishing. The rest is now history. A Graveside service was held on Jan. 7 at B’nai Amoona Cemetery, 930 North and South Road. Contributions in Tillie’s memory may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. A RindskopfRoth Service STANLEY WILLIAM COHEN passed away quietly on January 6, 2022 at the age of 83. Loving husband of Phyllis Cohen, proud father of Stacy Cohen Sun and Angie Cohen Scariano. He adored his grandchildren, Aiden Scariano and Harper Sun, and was a loving father-in-law to John Scariano and Brian Sun. Born in St. Louis, MO, Stanley spent his life loving all things St. Louis. He took advantage of everything the city had to offer. He loved the Cardinals, Blues, University City High School, every park, every deli, and participated in planning all of his high school reunions. He loved spending time with friends and family. He studied art at Washington University and spent his early career in commercial arts. He ultimately retired after 37 years with the St. Louis County Government Center. Stanley’s success and happiness was measured by the way he made others feel. He loved to host brunch from Sherman Brothers every weekend for anyone and everyone at his home. He loved driving carpools, making sure not only his children, but their friends were safe and happy. He was a loving soul and an honorable man who will be deeply missed by many. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 20, 10:00am at United Hebrew Cemetery, 7855 Canton Avenue. For those who are unable to attend, a Zoom link will be
Providing traditional, dignified funeral services
At the time of your need, or pre-arranged
(314) 367-0438
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JEWISH LIGHT
Families may submit an obituary for a loved one through the funeral home they work with or by using a form on the Light’s website: stljewishlight.org/submit-obituary
provided. There will be no Shiva due to COVID protocols. Stanley’s family would like to thank his doctors, caregivers, and especially all first responders for his care. In lieu of flowers, donations in Stanley’s memory may be made to the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, 12 Millstone Campus Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146 or to The BackStoppers, Inc., 10411 Clayton Rd #203, St. Louis, MO 63131. A Rindskopf-Roth Service DAVID JEFFERY FERMAN, January 13, 2022. Beloved husband of Susan Rich Ferman; dear father of Rebecca, Ariel and Brooke Ferman; dear son of Reva and the late Marty Ferman; dear brother and brother-in-law of Laura Lembeck-Ejikemewua and Amy Slakman (Sharone); dear son-in-law of Linda Welch and Hershel Rich; our dear brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend to many. David attended the University of Missouri in Columbia for both his undergraduate degree and his law degree, where he met his wife Susan. He was a member of Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity. David and Susan got married in 1991, and celebrated 30 years together last October. After graduating in 1986, David was a public defender for five years before switching to his own private practice. He was also a night court judge.David was a lifetime member of the Masonic Temple. He loved fencing, and was at one point the fencing champion of the Midwest. Some of David’s other hobbies included fishing, riding and caring for his horses, being a Civil War re-enactor, going to the gun range, collecting firearms, taking pictures with his Nikon camera, going out to eat, and snacking on BBQ potato chips. Above everything, David loved his wife and daughters dearly, and fought stubbornly to be with them up to the very end. Despite all the health struggles he dealt with every day, he never gave up and faced each day with optimism. He will be missed by many. A funeral service was held Jan. 17 at Congregation B’nai Amoona. Service also will be available via Live Stream. Please visit www. bergermemorialchapel.com for details. Memorial contributions preferred to the National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Berger Memorial Service ADRIENNE PALAN GOLD was born July 17, 1920, in St. Louis, MO, and passed away on January 9, 2022, in Dallas, TX, at the age of 101. Adrienne is predeceased by her husband, Oliver W Gold, who died in 1970. She is also predeceased by her parents, Robert Palan and Perl Palan, and her sister, Meryl Palan Levy. Adrienne attended Demun Elementary School in Clayton, MO, and graduated Clayton High School in 1938. She attended Washington University, 1938 - 1941, majoring in interior design. She was honored to be Hatchet Queen of Washington University, October 1941. She married Oliver Wendell Gold in June 1942. Adrienne has four children: Leslie Elizabeth Gold Conley, Wendy Ellen Gold Beren, John Steven Gold and Barbara Ann Gold. Adrienne has five grandchildren, Jason Conley, Sarah Conley Evans, Brandon Gold, Lauren Gold and Madison Gold, and four greatgrandchildren, Elias Conley, Tallia Conley, Hunter Evans and Watson Evans. Her two nephews are Robert Levy and John Levy and several nieces and nephews on the Gold side: Larry, Laura Jane (deceased), and Lucky Gold, and Charles Tober (deceased) and Carol Tober (deceased). Adrienne moved to Dallas, TX, in 1966. Adrienne had many friends in both St. Louis and Dallas with whom she played bridge and canasta. She participated in fundraisers for Jewish causes in dance routines. She was a lifelong avid reader, a pile of romance and mystery novels checked out from libraries was always nearby. Just on the Kindle alone, from 2015 to 2020, she read 451 books. They had to
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be put on an Excel spreadsheet just to keep up in order to prevent duplication, which did happen from time to time. She loved going to all her children’s and grandchildren’s athletic games. S he was their biggest fan and supporter. She also took exercise class with her friends, but she was really taking the exercise class to go out and have a nice lunch with the ladies after class. She was very close to her sister Meryl, or Aunt Moey, as Adrienne’s children called her. They loved to shop and go to Vincent’s every Sunday - except during Dallas Cowboys season. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Sparkman-Hillcrest.com for the Gold family. MARILYN ROSE GOODMAN, born April 29, 1933, died January 12, 2022. Marilyn and her widowed mother, Irene Harris Goodman, came to St. Louis in the late 1950s from Little Rock, Ark. Marilyn lived thereafter only in University City. She was very active in Jewish War Veterans, both nationally and in St. Louis. She was a part-time seamstress and she enjoyed helping her friends and traveling with them. She lived for 26 years in Crown Center for seniors. We will miss her. She has no known survivors except for cousin Richard Goodman of the Cleveland area; and cousins the next generation down: Howard Goodman of Seattle, Deborah Goodman Kasdan of Norwalk, Conn., and Julie Goodman of Halifax, Nova Scotia. There was no funeral service. STANTON J. GRALNICK of Springfield passed away at his home on January 10, 2022. Stan was born May 9, 1940 in St. Louis, MO. Son of Alex and Esther Gralnick. Educated in St. Louis and University City schools, received his college education at Washington University and Berkley. Stan earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Sciences in 1962. He married Laurel D. Garber in Springfield in 2001. Stan is survived by his wife Laurel Garber, his children Jay Gralnick (wife Jeanette) and Sari Awadalla; grandchildren Josef and Sofia Awadalla, and Kerianna and Corbin Gralnick; his sister Toby Shear (husband Jeff) and sisters-inlaw Gwen Martens (husband David) and Lisa Reis (husband Greg). Stan was licensed as an architect in Missouri and Illinois, as well as licensed as an asbestos building inspector, project manager and designer. For ten years he owned and operated a scrap metal recycling company in the St. Louis Metro East area. He was employed by the State of Illinois Capitol Development Board as a Senior Program Analyst from 1997 until his retirement in 2012. Stan worked on and supervised over 100 projects. Stan’s specialty was working on hospitals, and he was especially proud of the projects he had worked on at Memorial Medical Center, including the Renal Dialysis building and the Daycare Center for children of hospital staff. Stan was a member of the American Institute of Architects and served on the Illinois Council of AIA, on the Executive Board of the Central Illinois chapter, and as President of the Sangamon County Section. He was a member of the Constructions Specifications Institute, the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, and the American Business Club. He served on the Board of Directors of Falling Brook Townhomes Association. Stan served on the Sangamon County Planning Commission and on the Advisory Committee of Sangamon Valley Greenways and Trails. He was a member of the Springfield Art Association and served on the Board of Directors of Boys and Girls Club of Springfield, Big Brother/Big Sister of Sangamon County, Certified Development Corporation SBD 503 Program, and the Springfield Bicycle Club. He was a member of the special committee of School District #186 appointed to study facility utilization. Stan was affiliated with Temple Israel for over 40 years, served on its Board of Directors and as House Committee chair, and represented the Temple on the Jewish Community Relations Council. Obituaries continue on opposite page
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MAD MAYNARD” HORLICK, 85, passed away of cardiac arrest on January 5, 2022. The multimedia personality entertained at dozens of St. Louis venues for more than six decades. He was known for his wild lip syncs, often donning wacky wigs and crazy sunglasses while strumming a Mickey Mouse guitar. In the 1950s, his lip-sync routines were featured on The Gil Newsome Show on Channel 5. In the 1960s, his records, The Strut and Library Rock, had regional success. Today some of his other records have a fan base in European countries. Maynard Horlick was inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame where his name is on the “Legends List”. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran and served as a Mess Sergeant. “I was the messiest sergeant the Army ever had!” From 1973 through 2017, he was an MC/DJ at dozens of night spots including The Chase Park Plaza, Little Rascals and Stinger’s Lounge. In the early 1980’s, Maynard and Jackie McCoy teamed to host the KADI Original Sunday Night Oldies Show, broadcast live from STL night clubs; the show continued in night clubs when it left radio in 1996. From 2009 through 2012, Maynard and Jackie hosted KZQZ’s Juke Box Memories. In the last half of his life, he was proud to help raise money for The M.S. Society, The National Kidney Foundation, The Dream Factory and Easter Seals. Maynard’s passion was entertaining, especially with oldies records (“vinyl rules”!) while seeing people laugh, sing and dance. At the close of every Oldies Show, he would say, “Until we meet again...grease for peace.” Maynard Horlick is survived by his son Bruce, daughter Lynn (John) Miller and grandson, Logan Miller. Private services were held. In lieu of flowers and cards, please contribute to www.alz.org. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Berger Memorial Service DORIS M. KAPLAN, 93, passed away December 28, 2021 in Longboat Key, FL. Born July 24, 1928 to Meyer and Bessie (Bank) Millner. Beloved wife of the late Sylvan Kaplan for 56 years. Dear mother of Gary (Jody) Kaplan, Earl (Lily) Kaplan and David (Zelagh) Kaplan. Loving grandmother of Jason (Aleks), Jonny, Ben, Ananda, Lex, Courtney, Alivia, Kalki, Sunny and Zen Kaplan, Steve (Jonté) Rosebrough and Jack Cheng. Beloved great grandmother of Meyer, Scarlett, Sebastian and Cady Kaplan. Dear sister of the late Gerry (Leo) Bressler and the late Alan (the late Phyllis) Millner. Dear aunt, cousin and friend to many. Doris was a rare beauty, both inside and out. A true pioneer of her generation, Doris was the first female to receive a mechanical engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis, MO. Her positive spirit and love for her family embodied the special relationship Doris had with each and every one of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In her later years, Doris was an avid supporter of her Temple in Longboat Key, FL. A graveside service was held Jan. 16 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road. Live stream available at Rindskopfroth.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, FL, 34228. A Rindskopf-Roth Service ROSALIE KASTEN, January 15, 2022 Beloved wife of the late Harold S. Kasten; dear mother of Sherry (Dan) Diekemper; loving grandmother of Danielle Crall, the late Samantha Crall and Lindsey Diekemper; dear daughter of the late Frieda and Mack Salzberg; dear sister of the late Shirley Kweskin and the late Stanley Salzberg; dear aunt of the late Linda Kweskin, Danny and Gloria Kweskin, and Jay and Amy Kweskin; dear sister-in-law, great aunt, cousin and friend to many. Special grandma to fluffy Bob Saget and Noodle Crall. A funeral service was held Jan. 19at BERGER MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 9430 Olive Blvd. Service is
OBITUARIES available via Live Stream (please visit www. bergermemorialchapel.com for information. No visitation prior to the service. Interment follows at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road. Memorial contributions preferred to the Samantha Crall Camp Sabra Scholarship Fund, 2 Millstone Campus Drive, 63146. LEONARD A. KORNBLUM, December 24. 2021 Leonard A. Kornblum, beloved husband of 68 years to Sandra Kornblum, dear father to Teri Rutherford of Seattle and dear father & fatherin-law to Joan Hall (Ed) of Clayton, passed away in St. Louis on December 24, 2021, just shy of his 94th birthday. He was born on February 2, 1928 and grew up in East St. Louis, IL, the youngest of 7 children of Sarah Freidberg Kornblum and Joseph Kornblum. His family was with him at the time of his death. He was a WWII Navy veteran, having served in China and Japan, on the USS Molala. Leonard was a lighthearted person, always seeing the bright side of things. He would carry on conversations with strangers everywhere he went. He also worked hard his entire life and never sat still. He is remembered as having an abundance of energy and happiness for the gift of life. Pushing 94 years old, Leonard´s mind was as sharp and clear as ever. He fought hard to get better and to go on with life, as always. His wife, daughters, son-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends deeply miss him and remember his smile, humor and love. A private graveside service and interment was held Dec. 29 at United Hebrew Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, kindly make contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association. Berger Memorial Service JEROME S. “JERRY” LACKS, January 3, 2022 Beloved husband of Mary Kietz Lacks; dear stepfather of Robyn Kaufhold and Jenny Ward (Mike); dear grandfather of 6; dear brother of David Lacks (Cindy); dear uncle, cousin and friend. Graveside service was held, Friday, January 7 at Bellerive Gardens Cemetery, 740 N. Mason Road. Memorial contributions preferred to the charity of your choice. BERGER MEMORIAL SERVICE MARLENE LEFTON, January 6, 2022 Beloved wife of 53 years to the late Morris S. Lefton; dear mother of Evan Lefton, Michael Lefton (Debbie) and Amy Lefton; loving grandmother of Sydney, Jacob, Ellie, Sadie and Sacha Lefton; beloved daughter of the late Sidney and Florence (Besser) Miller; cherished sister of the late Donald Miller; beloved sister-inlaw of Robert Lefton (late Marlene); dear aunt of Jeff (Bry), Cindy and Brad Lefton; loving great-aunt of Jessica and Katie Lefton; our dear relative and friend to many. Even more beautiful on the inside than out, Marlene was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. For Marlene, family always came first, with chocolate and shopping a close second and third. She exuded class, elegance and grace, with a unique ability to touch everyone she met. Marlene toasted every special occasion by saying “There’s a lot of love in this room,” and she was always right, because she was in the room. Her warmth and smile will never be forgotten. A funeral service was held Monday, Jan. 10 at Congregation Shaare Emeth, 11645 Ladue Road. The funeral service is available via Live Stream; please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information. Memorial contributions in Marlene’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice. Berger Memorial Service JANICE LESLIE GLASSER LEVINE passed away in her home on December 22, 2021 at the age of 63. She was the beloved mother of Julia Levine and Ben Levine, and sister of Robert Glasser, Howard Glasser, and Deborah Glasser Barr. She was a cherished aunt, cousin, friend, and member of the Westview Assisted Living community. Janice was born on August 5, 1958 in southern California to Morris and Gloria Glasser. She graduated from Beverly Hills High in 1977 and went on to study occupational therapy at San
January 19, 2022
Jose State University. She married David Levine in 1990, and the couple moved to St. Louis with their daughter Julia in 1993. She spoke publicly on the power of laughter in healing, gave art and music appreciation workshops for elementary school students, and led peer support groups for individuals with bipolar disorder. She was a lover of social action and volunteered for the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Jewish Family and Children’s Services. Her family would like to thank Shandora Rice, who was a loving caregiver to Janice for the last five years, and Iris Widiger, who was her compassionate care manager. Private memorial services will be held for family and friends in 2022. Those wishing to make a gift in Janice’s honor might consider the MS Society, Jewish Family and Children’s Services, the ASPCA, or an organization of their choice.
Steven and Reuven Liebhaber. Thank you to our special friends Lorrie Sarandos, Katrina Allen and Roger Gazey, whose care, love and devotion are much appreciated and will not be forgotten. A memorial service was held Jan. 14 at Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Blvd. Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for Live Stream details. In lieu of flowers, please be kind to the people around you. Berger Memorial Service
HARVEY LIEBHABER, M.D., on January 5, 2022. Beloved physician, avid pilot and Dearest Father, Grandfather, Uncle and friend to many. Born to Dora and Samuel in Brooklyn, NY, April 24, 1932, Harvey was the youngest of five siblings with whom he was very close, especially after the sudden death of their father in 1939. Harvey first came to St. Louis as a Medical Resident at (then) Barnes Hospital in the 1950’s. Upon returning to New York City for further training, he met and married Columbia University Pediatric Resident Despine Coulis. He served as professor of Microbiology, Virology and Infectious Disease at Yale University Medical School until 1972 when He was offered a professorship at Washington University Medical School in St. Louis. Choosing to leave academic medicine in 1978, he started a private practice in University City and Creve Coeur. He was a compassionate and caring Man and had a bedside manner like none other. He served a time as President of the Medical staff at Jewish Hospital St. Louis. His love of flying led him to become an Aviation Medical Examiner. He loved chatting about aviation with his pilots and became close friends with many of them. After his retirement he focused most of his time on his family and his love of opera and gardening. Forever a Brooklyn boy at heart. He leaves behind his only child, Daughter Catherine (Gary) Bryant, grandchildren Emma, Claire and Samuel Troxell all of St. Louis, and special nephews, Joseph Fingar, and Louis,
EVELYN T. ROTH, January 11, 2022 Beloved wife of the late Roland Lee Roth; dear mother of Melanie Thiede, Linda Newman and Pamela Schwartz; dear grandmother of Kaitlyn and Hannah Thiede, Sonia Ault, Mark (Becky), Stephen (Sara), Eric and Brad Schwartz; dear great-grandmother of Elana, Louisa, the late Leah, Aubrey, Landon, Wyatt Schwartz, Harley, Jesse and Nathan Ault; dear sister of Samuel Bluestein (Shirley) and Gloria Schramm (late Fred). Our dear aunt, cousin and friend to many. A graveside service was held Jan. 13 at Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol Cemetery, 9125 Ladue Road. Please visit bergermemorialchapel.com for Live Stream details. Memorial contributions preferred to Shriners Hospital for Children, Attn: Processing Center, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394. Berger Memorial Service ROBERT “BOB” RUBIN, January 6, 2021 Beloved husband of the late Judith Rubin; dear father and father-in-law of Elise Weinstein (Scott), Elaine Sukin, and Mark Rubin (Amy); dear grandfather of Rikki and Jake Weinstein, Gigi Sukin, and Cha Cha and Chase Rubin; dear brother of Phyllis Smith (Steve); our dear brotherin-law, uncle, cousin, and friend to so many. A funeral service was held Jan. 9 via Zoom. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for Zoom details. Memorial contributions preferred to the Clayton Education Foundation, 2 Mark Twain Circle, Clayton, MO 63105. Please note the contribution is in memory of Robert Rubin. Berger Memorial Service Obituaries continue on following page
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OBITUARIES
January 19, 2022
Continued from previous page SHEA SIGEL, January 12, 2022 Beloved husband of Mary Sigel; dear father and father-in-law of Julie Horwitz (Joseph), Becky Berberich (Scott) and Rachel Thomas (Clint); loving grandfather of Christian, Alyssa, Clayton, Joshua, Ethan and Samantha; dear brother of the late Robert Sigel (Paula) and the late Carolyn Baker (late Robert); dear brother-inlaw of Larry Willis (Grace), Liz Blake (Richard) and Robert Willis (Sherry); dear uncle, great-uncle, cousin and friend to many. A graveside service was held Jan. 17 at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 650 White Road. Please visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for Live Stream information. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association, 9370 Olive Boulevard, St. Louis, 63132. Berger Memorial Service
CLARK ANTHONY WILLETT passed away on January 11, 2022 at the age of 76. He was the son of Arthur and Margaret Willett. Beloved husband of Judy Willett for 34 wonderful years; dear father and father-in-law of Matthew and Torrie Willett and Melissa and Tim Margulis; loving PawPaw to Cheyenne and Reese Margulis; dear brother, uncle, great uncle, cousin and friend to so many. Clark grew up outside of Paducah, Kentucky. He attended Brescia College and University of Albuquerque where he received his Master’s in French Education. After teaching at Gibault High School in Waterloo, Illinois he moved to Kansas City to work in food preparation at La Bonne Bouchee and Marriott hotels. He missed teaching and found a perfect fit at Parkway West Middle in St. Louis where he was named Teacher of the Year in 2000. After retiring, Clark pursued his passion for photography. You could always find him with his camera around his neck taking pictures of nature scenes and then preparing those photos for art shows. Clark loved life and could talk easily to people wherever he went. His warmth and kindness were felt immediately. Clark’s skill of storytelling, especially about his childhood on
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the farm, was enjoyed by many. We all benefited from his cooking and baking. The Buche de Noels and his crepes were the best! Clark was always ready to travel and explore. He thoroughly enjoyed our family trips and reunions. Clark and Judy got married in 1987 and had two wonderful children. He was very proud of them, watching and sharing in their accomplishments. He embraced Tim, Torrie, Cheyenne and Reese as they joined our family. One of his biggest joys was doing puzzles with Cheyenne at the dining room table. Even as his Alzheimer’s disease progressed, his beautiful smile remained. Graveside service with Live Stream access will be held at New Mt Sinai Cemetery on Jan. 23, 2022 at 1:00 pm. Please visit www. bergermemorialchapel.com for Live Stream details. MASKS WILL BE REQUIRED AT THE GRAVESIDE SERVICE AND SOCIAL DISTANCING WILL BE OBSERVED. Memorial contributions may be made to Memory Care
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Home Solutions, Project Present or a charity of your choice. Berger Memorial Service SANDRA WOLF, nee Fiddleman, 80, January 8, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Alfred Wolf. Devoted mother of Evan (Kathryn) Wolf and Merrill (Katherine) Wolf. Loving and proud grandmother of Madeline Wolf, Jack Wolf, Ryan Wolf, Andrew Wolf and Charlie Wolf. Dear sister of Reva (Shelly) Segal. A service was held Jan. 12 at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Road in Buffalo Grove. Interment Shalom. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue Floor 17, Chicago, Illinois 60601, www.alz.org. To view the funeral live stream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals Buffalo Grove Chapel, 847.229.8822, www. cjfinfo.com
Tobin: Let’s not shy away from tough questions about recent attack CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 That immediate and enthusiastic search for a villain in those incidents other than the actual perpetrator was wrong, and it should not be repeated after the Colleyville attack. We don’t know a lot about the man who attacked the Texas synagogue, and it may be that he was mentally ill—something that may be true of others who have committed acts of violence. Still, it is not inappropriate to speak of those who actually do support antisemitism and who have popularized a cause that was apparently the motivation for the attack in Colleyville. Akram entered the synagogue during services that were being live-streamed via Zoom on Facebook. According to reports, he demanded the release of his “sister,” Aafia Siddiqui. The object of his failed effort is a Pakistani-born terrorist holding degrees from both the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Brandeis University, and who is currently serving an 86-year sentence in a federal facility in Fort Worth for attempting to murder U.S. servicemen in Afghanistan and conspiring
to attack sites in New York with a “dirty bomb.” Siddiqui is notorious not just for her crimes but for engaging in a series of antisemitic outbursts during her trial in 2010, and for expressing various conspiracy theories about Jews and Israel. Despite this, she is considered a victim and an object of sympathy by those, like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), that believes her to be a victim of the Islamophobia unleashed across America by the 9/11 attacks. Indeed, CAIR, which condemned the incident at the synagogue, has been outspoken in advocating for Siddiqui’s freedom, having organized various events promoting her cause as recently as this past November, including one featuring political activist and speaker Linda Sarsour, another notorious anti-Semite. Indeed, Siddiqui’s lawyer, Marwa Elbially, is president of the Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of CAIR. The group has recently been in the news for its effort to shut down funding of those organizations that monitor extremism, hatred and antisemitism in the Arab and Muslim world because they suppos-
edly incite Islamophobia. But as I’ve noted, a group that was founded as a political front for fundraisers for Hamas terrorists who continue to spread and condone antisemitism to this day are in no position to be considered an authority on fighting bigotry. That’s why those who take CAIR’s protestations about opposition to anti-Semitism or their horror at attacks on synagogues at face value are making a serious mistake. The same is true for their attempt to separate their claims that Siddiqui is an innocent who was framed by the government in the course of an Islamophobic war on terrorism from what happened at the synagogue. To state this is not to condone any rhetoric that seeks to blame Muslims in general for the act of an individual. Whatever drove Akram to seek his own death and that of others in order to free a Jew-hating terrorist, it is not inappropriate to note that the rising tide of antisemitism around the globe is largely fueled by those, like CAIR, who seek to demonize Israel and Jews. When that leads to violence—whether in the Middle East, Europe, on the streets of
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American cities or at a synagogue where people are gathered for Sabbath worship—it is far from out of bounds to call out those who have rationalized or promoted ideological attacks on Jews. That includes conspiracy theories like the ones that are at the heart of the movement to transform a Jew-hating would-be killer like Siddiqui into an innocent victim of the Zionists and their American allies. Instead of focusing on that, all too many are attempting to claim, including even the FBI in its initial statement after the conclusion of the incident, that what happened has nothing to do with the Jews and, by implication, antisemitism. We are grateful that as traumatic as it must have been for the hostages and the local community, the outcome in Colleyville was not the tragedy that the attacks in Pittsburgh and Poway turned out to be. But neither the survival of the intended victims nor the wish to avoid conflict with those who claim to represent Muslims should cause us to avert our eyes from the truth about groups that seek to mainstream antisemitism even while pretending to oppose it.
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JEWISH LIGHT
NUSACH HARI B’NAI ZION
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LEFT: Nusach Hari B’nai Zion Special Guests of Honor, Fran and Leonard Alper (in the center) at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion’s 116th Anniversary Banquet. Standing with them from left to right: Justin Krachmalnick, Joanna Alper and Caryn Alper.
BELOW: Alan Haber (left) receiving the HaKaras HaTov Award from Nusach Hari Rabbi Ze’ev Smason.
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PHOTOS FROM RECENT JEWISH COMMUNITY EVENTS
Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School taught pre-schoolers and other young social activists how they could answer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s challenge that we “do something for others” on MLK Day during a Social Action Drive Thru event, called “Small Hands. . . Big Difference.” Above, Marnie Rosen makes tzedakah boxes.
SUBMIT A PHOTO: Have a photo of a recent Jewish community event you would like to submit? Email the image and a suggested caption to news@stljewishlight.org. VIEW MORE ONLINE: stljewishlight.org/multimedia
ABOVE: Lilly, Grand and Nicole Pingel drive up at Mirowitz’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day event. RIGHT: Maxine Mirowitz and Touch Therapy Dog Bexley Mirowitz greet participants. ABOVE RIGHT: The event featured six stations including a sing-along to imagine a better world and a drop-off point for donations to the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry.
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CHAILIGHTS
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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
SATURDAY | Jan. 22
STARTING | Jan. 26
NHBZ talk: ‘Tips to Sticking with Your New Year’s Resolutions’
‘Let It Ripple: A Tikkun Middot Series’
Studies show that only 8% of people keep their New Year’s resolutions. If you are trying to avoid “following the crowd” with this statistic, be sure to attend Nusach Hari B’nai Zion’s Rabbi Ze’ev Smason’s discussion “Tips to Sticking with Your New Year’s Resolutions” at 10:15 a.m. This talk is part of NHBZ’s weekly “Starting Points: Wisdom for Daily Living,” which features interactive discussions that explore relevant, contemporary topics. NHBZ membership is not necessary to attend and RSVP’s are not required. For more information, call 314991-2100, ext. 2.
STARTING | Jan. 23 Winter Used Book Sale at the J See related news brief on page 5.
TUESDAY | Jan. 25 J Associates event: ‘Small Changes...Big Rewards’
From 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. J Associates will hold a free virtual event, “Small Changes... Big Rewards,” featuring Michelle Rubin, a psychotherapist and meditation and mindfulness guide, and author Juli Berwald. Rubin will discuss small changes to improve selfcare, reduce stress and make a big difference in our daily lives. She will also lead the group in a brief meditation. Berwald, who has written for The New York Times, National Geographic and Slate and is the author of “Spineless,” will use science of the ocean as a muse and metaphor for the way small changes can have outsized impacts. Free. RSVP required: jccstl.com/smallchanges. All in attendance will have the opportunity to win a prize. For more information, contact J Annual Fund Manager Beth Box at bbox@ jccstl.org or 314-442-3109.
Coffee Talk with SnL welcomes Joe Olivastro
Coffee Talk with SnL welcome Joe Olivastro at 8:30 a.m. A certified personal trainer, Olivastro will be adapting basic movement skills to increase your balance, strengthen your core and improve your agility. Explore strategies and techniques that you can use to enhance your ability to perform everyday tasks. No equipment needed, just a chair. Wear comfortable clothing. To RSVP visit: https://bit.ly/Jan22CT
STARTING | Jan. 25 Chabad of Chesterfield starts book club series
Bryan Rigg (left) and Sharon Berry are leading an International Holocaust Remembrance Day program on Jan. 26.
WEDNESDAY | Jan. 26 International Holocaust Remembrance Day program
At 6 p.m., St. Louis County Library and the Hannah Ida Urman Foundation will present a free virtual program for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Speakers include WWII military historian and author Bryan Rigg and Hannah Ida Urman Foundation cofounder Sharon Berry. The event will look at the Catholic Church’s response during WWII, as the Nazi party rose in power and waged war across Europe. The program is intended for adults. Registration required. Participants will receive Zoom information via email after registering. A recording of this virtual program will be available on the St. Louis County Library’s YouTube page within three business days. Visit https://bit.ly/Jan26-SLCL to RSVP.
Tech Tutor: Online safety
From 10 to 11 a.m. Nick Warmann will discuss how to stay safe online. Warmann, a cybersecurity major with a technology background, will share his expertise about protecting one’s digital devices, passwords, privacy settings, internet safety and other security-related items. Tech Tutor is supported by a grant from the Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/Register_ MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-733-9813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter.org.
Movie night at Kol Rinah
View a documentary produced locally by Peter Tao of Tao + Lee Associates called “Day One,” following a group of teenage refugees from war-torn countries who are enrolled at a St. Louis public school for refugees and immigrants. Afterwards, enjoy a discussion by the people involved with the movie. The event will be hosted at Kol Rinah, 7791 Maryland Ave. The event will start with networking at 4:30 p.m., the film at 4:45 and the discussion at 6. For more information or to register, visit https://crewstl.org/events/specialevents/2022-01-26-dei-movie-night. The cost is $20 ($10 donation to Afghan Refugees). Proof of vaccination or a negative test within 36 hours are required. Masks are required when moving about the building.
See related news brief on page 5.
Rabbi Andrea Goldstein and Eve Dyson will lead the Jewish Mindfulness Center’s “Let It Ripple: A Tikkun Middot Series” from 7 to 8:15 p.m. on Zoom on Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 and 9. Tikkun Middot combines musar (ethical) study with mindfulness practices to bring deeper meaning to our daily lives and expand our understanding of what it means to be human. This session’s topics include exploring with the qualities of strength, anger and faithfulness. This offering is free, though registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Stacy Jespersen at sjespersen@sestl.org.
THURSDAY | Jan. 27 WashU doctor discusses multiple sclerosis
Dr. Salim Chahin of Washington University will discuss “MS: Its Symptoms, Current Treatment & Advances Being Made in its Treatment” at 10 a.m. via Zoom. Chahin is a leading researcher in his field. Participants will have the opportunity to ask Chahin questions. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/Register_MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-733-9813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter.org.
Discussion of ‘German Youth Who Resisted’
On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Fred Stopsky will lead a 2 p.m. discussion on “German Youth Who Resisted in World War II.” Stopsky, a former teacher in southern Missouri, was involved with the St. Louis Holocaust Museum at the time of its inception and, over many years, has made numerous presentations to teachers, students and church groups in southern Missouri about the Holocaust. This program is co-sponsored by the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum. Register for this free online program at http://bit.ly/Register_ MirowitzCenter or by calling 314-733-9813 or via email to joliver@mirowitzcenter.org.
THURSDAY | Feb. 3 Nishmah salon with Susan Block
Join Nishmah with special guest Susan E. Block, an attorney at Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal, P.C. in Clayton at 7 p.m. via Zoom when the Ilene Joseph Salon Series presents “HERstory: A Conversation Susan E. Block with Susan E. Block.” She will share her story and provide insights on LGBTQ inclusion in the Jewish communi-
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Local Jewish organizations and congregations can submit calendar items to news@ stljewishlight.org. All items received by 5 p.m. Friday will be considered for the following week’s edition.
ty. Register at nishmah.org. For more information, contact Vickie Shuchart at 314-4423111 or vshuchart@jccstl.org. Salons are free and open to anyone who identifies as a woman.
SATURDAY | Feb. 5 A Havdalah service of healing and hope
The healing power of music has been lifted up by religious practitioners and philosophers and is confirmed by medical studies. Listening to live music can reduce anxiety and pain. Whether you, yourself, are wrestling with illness or stress, are praying for a loved one or would like to connect with others to pray for the healing of our world, Shaare Emeth invites you to join Rabbi Andrea Goldstein, Cantor Seth Warner and harpist, Amy Camie, for this service of healing and hope, set for 4:30 p.m. in the Kehillah Center at Congregation Shaare Emeth or online. To register, contact Stacy Jespersen at sjespersen@sestl.org.
FRIDAY | Feb. 11 Prayer Lab is Back
At 6 p.m. join Rabbi Goldstein, Lucy Greenbaum and the Prayer Lab musicians for this non-traditional Shabbat service combining contemporary readings, poetry, participatory music, interactive teachings, and time set aside for meditation and personal reflection. The theme for this month is light and dark. Whether you are joining online or in-person, worshippers are encouraged to come with open minds and open hearts. All are welcome. To register, contact Stacy Jespersen at sjespersen@sestl.org. Prayer Lab participants should park on the north side of the building and enter via the north lobby.
ONGOING ChillZone at NHBZ
Calling all kids ages 5th grade and up. Get in the ChillZone with other girls and boys from the St. Louis area at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion on Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy pizza, fun and prizes while exploring Judaic topics with NHBZ Assistant Rabbi Avi Okin. This program is free, and kids and families do not need to be members of NHBZ to attend. For more information, go to chillzone@thezone.org or call Rabbi Okin at 862438-4094.
Rabbi leads weekly meditation
Join Rabbi Andrea Goldstein at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and 5 p.m. on Thursdays for mindfulness meditation sits. Incorporating lessons from the weekly Torah portion, as well as stories, rituals and symbols of the season, No meditation experience necessary. Questions? Contact Stacy Jespersen at sjespersen@sestl.org.
Rabbi Gordon: JCRC, J Street, divisiveness and tolerance CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 any case, the Torah and rabbis expressed the idea more specifically in law and with more color in narrative. Whatever the reason, we see concerns that abstractions do not always serve us well. In this case, are there limits to tolerance? If tolerance means suspending our thinking as if no views (or behaviors) are beyond the pale, it is unwise and dangerous. Some Jews and Jewish groups have espoused expelling all Arabs from Israel, or advocating their death, or calling for the
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end of Israel as a Jewish state — should we defend them and include them under the banner of tolerance and diversity? What about Jewish organizations promoting the innate biological superiority or inferiority of a race? Tolerance has limits. Words like racist and apartheid (or Nazi) applied to Israel are absurdly false, radical distortions, that aim to delegitimize Israel. Moreover, false analogies cheapen their meaning. In addition, they are inflammatory and feed ignorance and hatred and are used by enemies of Israel and Jews — not for love, but for hate, as
weapons. They do not further peace; they polarize conflict. Jewish groups that employ these words — either because they believe them, or because they find them provocative and attention-getting, or to forge alliances — do great harm to Israel and the Jewish people and genuine peace. One does not have to be anti-Palestinian or anti-Arab to be pro-Israel, but inflamed distorted vocabulary polarizes by making it appear so. I am pro-dignity, love, tolerance, and respect for Palestinians — Torah teaching does not permit us to dismiss Palestinian suffering
while also opposing the radical ideas and policies of groups and leadership that seek to delegitimize and destroy Israel, the Jewish people, and historical truth. Advocate for the ger, but be careful with your words. Do not distort or inflame, do not exacerbate Jew against Jew, and do not polarize supporters of Israel. Do not make it harder for us to care about our fellow Jews and the ger. One path is a machloket she-lo l’shem shamayim — people will continue to suffer and die; the other a machloket l’shem shamayim that can eventually lead to genuine peace.
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