Remnant of designs ‘Messianic’ synagogue reconfigures as ‘yeshiva’ 3 David Moss Grace After Meals in comic book form p.p.22 November 2017 Cheshvan/Kislev 5778 Vol. 22, No. 3
Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton
The Miami Valley’s Jewish Monthly • Online at daytonjewishobserver.org Stuart McDowell
Fiddler as a teaching tool at Wright State
Anti-BDS laws’ unintended targets
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Friendship Village Retirement Community
From the residents and staff of Friendship Village
DAYTON Beth Abraham to honor Bonnie & Walter Rice
Voice recital at Temple Israel Temple Israel will present a concert of Jewish vocal music featuring its music and program director, soprano Courtney Cummings, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 12. Cummings received her master’s degree in vocal performance and literature from the Eastman School of Music. Also on the program will be Cantor Jenna Greenberg, Beth Abraham Synagogue Cantor Andrea Raizen, and the Dayton Jewish Chorale. Selections will include songs in Ladino and Courtney Cummings Yiddish, contemporary settings of ancient texts, show tunes and classical works. For more information, call the temple at 496-0050.
Bonnie Beaman Rice & Walter H. Rice
Beth Abraham Synagogue will honor retired Vandalia Municipal Court Magistrate Bonnie Beaman Rice and U.S. District Court Judge Walter H. Rice at its donor luncheon at noon on Sunday, Dec. 3. The cost of the luncheon is $60, with additional giving levels available. R.S.V.P. by Nov. 13 to the synagogue office at 293-9520.
Military finance seminar with Israel
You’re Invited To our next monthly Friday Night Shabbat featuring a traditional Shabbat dinner with all your favorites.
Program led by Joe Bettman
Friday, November 24, 5 p.m. In The Atrium Dining Room
Friday Night Shabbat is $10 per person. R.S.V.P. to 837-5581 Ext 1274.
Join our Diabetic Support Group Tuesday, Nov. 14, 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. (2nd Tuesday each mo.) with Gem City Home Care Certified Diabetes Educator Mara Lamb. Friendship Village For more information call Pam Hall, 837-5581 ext. 1269. 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Located directly inside the Atrium entrance. Stop in & join us for a cup of coffee & Friendship Village Hospitality.
The coffee shop is open for area Seniors to come enjoy FREE coffee, conversation, socialization, and the Friendship hospitality!
5790 Denlinger Road, Dayton, OH 45426 • www.fvdayton.com PAGE 2
UD Kristallnacht commemoration Nov. 7 The University of Dayton will hold its observance for Kristallnacht at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7 in the Immaculate Conception Chapel. Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass — Nov. 9 and
10, 1938 — is considered the start of the Holocaust. The observance will include a musical remembrance by UD’s World Music Choir. For more information, call Crystal Sullivan at 229-3369.
IN THIS ISSUE
Call Pam Hall today for details
937-837-5581 Ext 1269
The Dayton Region Israel Trade Alliance sponsored a foreign military finance seminar on Sept. 12 at the Dayton Masonic Center, with presentations from three Israel Ministry of Defense officials based in New York. Forty-five companies from across Ohio attended, along with companies from seven other states; 23 companies held one-on-one meetings with the Israel defense officials. With Israel purchasing approximately $1 billion in products annually from smaller U.S. companies for use in its defense industry, the seminar’s goal was to help connect regional businesses to these opportunities. Shown here (L to R): Mont. Co. Commissioner Dan Foley, Israeli Air Force Liaison Officer to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Opher Levi, Israeli Mission to the U.S. Deputy Gen. Counsel Chaim Kagedan, Israeli Mission to the U.S. Economic & Cost Analysis Dept. Dir. Einat Eigorn-Nahum, Dayton City Commissioner Chris Shaw, Mont. Co. Commissioner Debbie Lieberman, State Rep. Fred Strahorn, State Rep. Michael Henne, and Asst. Mont. Co. Admin. Michael Colbert.
Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 Monday thru Friday The Coffee House is located just inside the Atrium entrance at Door 18. Watch
Calendar of Events.......................17
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Family Education............................23
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Kvelling Corner............................18
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
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Remnant of ‘Messianic’ synagogue reconfigures as ‘yeshiva’ C
Area rabbis: ‘Messianic Judaism’ is Christianity with Jewish overlays, not normative Judaism
that Jesus is the messiah. Some Messianic adherents have Jewish lineage, others are Christians who seek to connect with what they perceive as the Jewish roots of Christianity. But rabbis across Dayton’s Jewish movements point out By Marshall Weiss that Messianic Judaism is not The Observer Jewish. On Sept. 28, Ahavat Torah Ye“There’s a widespread shiva - Dayton, OH launched its consensus that those who have community Facebook page. In accepted Jesus as being a divinan early post, it describes itself ity are no longer part of normaas “a place for Torah learning tive Judaism, and that those and drawing close to HaShem,” individuals would be considusing a Hebrew term for God. ered — at that time — to have Another post, with a graphic separated themselves from the of a traditional-looking rabbi Jewish community and the Jewsounding a shofar, announces ish people,” says Rabbi Joshua the yeshiva’s classes are held Ginsberg of Beth Abraham on Shabbat afternoons at 1380 Synagogue, Dayton’s ConservaSpaulding Rd. “Rabbi Tziyon tive congregation. is currently teaching about “While they may technically the Shlosh’esrei (13) Midot (atclaim a Jewish identity accordtributes) of HaShem’s Hesed ing to Jewish law,” Ginsberg Rachum (loving kindness and says, “at best they would be a mercy),” the post Jew in poor standing ‘The Jewish and would not be concludes. Subsequent posts belief is that allowed any of the link to videos of the privileges or responthere has popular Jewish a sibilities that come cappella group The not been a with being part of Maccabeats, educathe Jewish people.” tional videos about messiah.’ Rabbi Judy Chesthe Jewish holiday sin of Temple Beth of Sukkot, and Barbra Streisand Or, a Reform congregation in singing Avinu Malkeinu (Our Washington Township, says JuFather Our King) in Israel. daism adheres to the belief that What the page does not inthere has not been a messiah. dicate anywhere is that Ahavat “The parting of the ways beTorah Yeshiva is a ‘‘Messianic” tween the early Jewish commuendeavor. nity and the birth of Christianity Followers of “Messianic Juda- was the separation of the belief ism” — actually an evangelical that the messiah had come,” Christian subgroup — believe Chessin says. “Therefore, while The Adventures of
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Thurlow Adams, who refers to himself as Rabbi Tziyon, established the Ahavat Torah Yeshiva in September
people could actually have Jewish heritage in them and choose to mark their faith in a Jewish style, the belief of Jesus as the messiah makes a separation between us and them.” Rabbi Nochum Mangel of Chabad — Dayton’s Orthodox entity — says Messianic Judaism is an oxymoron, like “a vegetarian for meat.” “These movements deliberately target unsuspecting Jews, and they do it by misleading, confusing the issues,” Mangel says. “They use language that seems to be Jewish. And the antidote is a strong Jewish education, where Jews understand what are the fundamental Continued on Page Five
From the editor’s desk Two years ago, I interviewed Pastor Gary Trenum — now retired from Victory Christian Church in Kettering and from his role as city director of Christians United for Israel — when he was planning CUFI’s first Night to Honor Marshall Israel event in Dayton. With a rightward Weiss evangelical pull, CUFI encourages Christians to support and raise funds for the Jewish state. He told me he had received pushback from the local “Messianic Jewish” community because the CUFI event would be non-conversionary; members of Dayton’s Jewish community would be present. “The Messianics, because we will not use this as a conversionary opportunity, they call me antisemite,” Trenum said. “They feel that by withholding propagation, we are violating the tenets of the Gospel.” For his part, Trenum said he believes God’s covenant with Israel is in force forever, a point on which evangelical Christians are split. “Replacement theology, which is taught in a lot of seminaries, is the idea that God is finished with the Jews, and that the church has become Israel,” Trenum said. I don’t accept it, don’t believe it, and I believe it’s a great detriment.”
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Temple Beth Or’s Annual Artisan Fair with brisket lunch Sunday, December 3, 9a to 2p Artisan crafts and specialty items. Brisket lunch only $9 a plate. Takeout brisket only $18 a pound. Chopped liver only $5 a half-pound. No entrance fee for shoppers. Open to the public!
DAYTON Samuel Heider to address Wright State Kristallnacht event Holocaust survivor Samuel Heider will be the speaker for Wright State University’s Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7 in Room E163 of the Student Union. Born in Poland, Heider was the only member of his family not killed in the Holocaust. Among the concentration camps he survived were Dachau and Auschwitz. For more information, call Dr. Mark Verman at 775-2461. Samuel Heider
Robert Kahn to relate his recollections of Kristallnacht Robert Kahn, who experienced the horrors of Kristallnacht firsthand — and who would later work on Operation Paper Clip for U.S. intelligence after World War II — will discuss his autobiography, The Hard Road of Dreams: Remembering Not To Forget, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at Stivers School for the Arts, 1313 E. Fifth Robert Kahn St., Dayton. His talk is part of the JCC Cultural Arts & Book Fest Series. Following Kahn’s presentation, the Stivers Orchestra will perform an original composition inspired his story. The program is free and open to the community. For more information, call 610-1555.
Exhibit at MU on Jews who fought WWII with Soviet armed forces
Preorder extra pounds of brisket and chopped liver at www.templebethor.com. There is always room for more vendors! Call or email us for details! judaicashop@templebethor or 937-434-3500. Temple Beth Or 5275 Marshall Road Dayton, Ohio 45429 www.templebethor.com 937-435-3400
Today...and for Generations PAGE 4
In conjunction with Hillel at Miami University and Miami University’s Havighurst Center for Russian and Post-Soviet Studies, an exhibit from New York’s Blavatnik Archive is on display at Miami University’s King Library on the Oxford campus through Nov. 17. It depicts stories of Russian Jews who fought in the Soviet armed forces during World War II. Alex Blavatnik, a 1986 graduate of Miami University, is executive director of the Blavatnik Archive. The Havighurst Center, library, and Hillel will host two events in conjunction with the exhibit. The symposium War, Revolution and Jewish Life in Russia will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3 at the King Library, followed by a Russian-themed Shabbat service and dinner at 6 p.m. at the Hillel Building, 11 E. Walnut St. R.S.V.P. to admin@muhillel.org. llya Yablokov, teaching fellow in Russian studies at the University of Leeds, will present the lecture Conspiracy Theories and Revolution in Post-Soviet Russia at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7 at the King Library. “Our goal is not to celebrate the centenary of 1917 but to use this anniversary as a means to think about how it shaped our contemporary world,” said Dr. Stephen Norris, interim director of the Havighurst Center.
Editor and Publisher Marshall Weiss MWeiss@jfgd.net 937-853-0372 Contributors Michele Alperin Rachel Haug Gilbert Marc Katz Candace R. Kwiatek Rabbi Nochum Mangel Advertising Sales Executive Patty Caruso, plhc69@gmail.com Proofreaders Rachel Haug Gilbert, Pamela Schwartz Billing Jeri Kay Eldeen, JEldeen@jfgd.net 937-853-0372 Observer Advisor Martin Gottlieb Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton David Pierce President Judy Abromowitz Immediate Past Pres. Bruce Feldman President Elect Todd Bettman Officer Dr. Heath Gilbert Officer Beverly Louis Officer Mary Rita Weissman Officer Cathy Gardner CEO The Dayton Jewish Observer, Vol. 22, No. 3. The Dayton Jewish Observer is published monthly by the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, a nonprofit corporation, 525 Versailles Dr., Dayton, OH 45459. Views expressed by guest columnists, in readers’ letters and in reprinted opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Dayton Jewish Observer, The Dayton Jewish Observer Policy Committee, the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton or the underwriters of any columns. Acceptance of advertising neither endorses advertisers nor guarantees kashrut. The Dayton Jewish Observer Mission Statement To support, strengthen and champion the Dayton Jewish community by providing a forum and resource for Jewish community interests. Goals • To encourage affiliation, involvement and communication. • To provide announcements, news, opinions and analysis of local, national and international activities and issues affecting Jews and the Jewish community. • To build community across institutional, organizational and denominational lines. • To advance causes important to the strength of our Jewish community including support of Federation agencies, its annual campaign, synagogue affiliation, Jewish education and participation in Jewish and general community affairs. • To provide an historic record of Dayton Jewish life.
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
DAYTON
Tim Sweeny REALTOR®
Messianic
tice.” One of (937) 901-2346 CELL Ginsberg’s (937) 918-2693 BUSINESS main conContinued from Page Three timsweeny@coldwellbanker.com cerns about beliefs of Judaism, specifically www.TimSweeny.com Maimonides’ categories of what Messianic is within the bounds of Judaism Judaism, he Let me be your Real Estate compass. says, is that and what is not.” ©2017 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles it adopts of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. and inter‘Changing our name Rabbi Joshua Rabbi Nochum prets Jewish Rabbi Judy and focus’ Chessin Ginsberg Mangel rituals and Ahavat Torah Yeshiva meets for them, and I think they are customs “in at East Dayton Baptist Church, KEVIN A. BRESSLER, CFP®, MBA searching,” Chessin says. “We ways that have no historical the address listed at its FaceFinancial Advisor CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner basis in Jewish life. In that way, welcome everybody to be a book page. The leader of the it’s a cultural appropriation and part, to see and celebrate with “yeshiva” is Thurlow Adams, 10050 Innovation Drive, Ste 310 Miamisburg, OH 45342-4933 us.” who refers to himself as “Rabbi religious appropriation.” 937.312.8008 The Dayton area’s synaGinsberg gives the example Tziyon.” kevin.a.bressler@ampf.com of Messianics claiming the three gogues, temples, and Chabad Adams was the leader of ameripriseadvisors.com/ kevin.a.bressler welcome anyone to their serBeth Simchat Yeshua Messianic matzahs used at the Passover CA Insurance #0823959 Jewish Synagogue, based at East Seder represent the Holy Trinity. vices and programs, so long as no one attempts to proselytize. “This wouldn’t have been Dayton Baptist Church until Local rabbis can’t recall anyone anywhere understood that it announced at Beth Simchat Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. attempting to proselytize in way, in any period of Judaism Yeshua’s Facebook page on their houses of worship. outside of whenever that interSept. 5 that it was “changing “People have been lovely our name and focus” to become pretation was adapted by some and have not hidden where in Christianity much later,” he a “yeshiva.” Loving dependable care, when you’re not there they’ve come from,” Chessin says. “Rabbi Tziyon is the Rosh We know it isn’t easy to invite someone into “A more interesting example says of Messianic visitors. “We Yeshiva,” Beth Simchat Yeshua’s your home to provide homecare. You’ll interview had people at our High Holy Sept. 5 post indicated, using the would be the modern matzah and select any caregiver we refer you to. At Family Bridges, character matters in caregivers. that we buy in our supermarket, Days, we had people at Sukkot term for the head of yeshiva. — maybe 10 people — so obvideveloped in the 19th century “Talmidim (students) will have Up to 24-hour care • Meal preparation ously this community is looking with its technology. And many worship on Shabbat from time Light housework • Companionship have interpreted the brown lines for some place to celebrate what to time at our location...but Our caregivers are thoroughly screened. feels like home to them.” that we find in the (industrial) we are no longer technically a So far, Chessin says, Messibaking process as the stripes of congregation. There isn’t any 937-299-1600 anics haven’t asked to become legitimate Messianic synagogue Jesus.” www.familybridges.com members of the temple. For Christians who follow in Dayton, Ohio now.” “It really hasn’t been on my Another area Messianic syna- Messianic Judaism, Mangel ofgogue, Sh’ma Yisrael, appears to fers a suggestion: “If they really radar,” she adds. “There was a time, 20 years ago, when that have been active, though based want to pursue a relationship FULL SERVICE AUTO WASH — AND — PROFESSIONAL DETAILING was an issue and concerned with God as expressed in the in member’s homes, until last Torah, that is the Seven Noahide us. Now we have different fish year. Laws. Judaism does have a mes- to fry. Our church alliances are Shalom Judaica Messianic shifting. The evangelicals are sage for all of humanity. You gift and bookstore, located in don’t have to imitate (Judaism), supporting Israel, and many of Brookville, continues to invite PATTERSON the liberal movements are not. you can just practice as God people through its website “to “This is my personal belief wants you to practice.” come and study the Scriptures Cannot be combined with any other H offers or discounts. Expires 2/28/18 According to the Talmud, the — and not all of my colleagues with us, either through the podLITTELL agree — that those who align Seven Noahide Laws comprise cast, or in person.” Keep Your Car Looking Like New 444 Patterson Rd. the moral code given by God for with Israel and Jewish causes, if Despite several attempts, Hand dried with soft, clean towels 299-9151 they want to be friends, I want “the children of Noah,” all of Adams declined to be interto be friends.” humanity. viewed by The Observer. In a “Jewish law believes that 2008 Observer article, Adams, Christianity for a non-Jew is a mechanical drafter by trade, said he was a Mennonite pastor not idolatry,” Mangel explains. “Christianity for a Jew is idolawith ordination as a Messianic rabbi through the “Federation of try. Why? Because of trinity. We Thursday, November 2, 2017, in E163 Student Union, Wright State University have to believe in unity, but if a Jewish Congregations.” non-Jew believes that God has At the time, he said that of the six to 10 people who attend- partners, that is still acceptable under the Seven Noahide Laws. ed his weekly Shabbat service, “But the point is, do (nonmost were “from a non-Jewish Jews) have to keep kosher, have background who are believers in Yeshua, believers in Jesus, and to keep Shabbos? That’s not part 4:00 pm of the Seven Noahide Laws. they just have felt and believed there was something missing in There is space within Judaism “Public Outcry: Women’s Laments and Social Activism, their not being connected to the for the rest of the world — withA Historical Perspective” out tampering with Judaism.” continuity of Judaism.” SHROYER
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‘We welcome everybody’ Beginning with the holiday of Shavuot in late May, Chessin said she became aware of Messianic Jews starting to show up at Temple Beth Or’s services. “They have lost a place of worship that has meaning
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
PAGE 5
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What Palestinian reconciliation means for Israel By Andrew Tobin, JTA JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken a wait-and-see approach to the Palestinian’s reconciliation deal. Netanyahu spoke out publicly and loudly against the move toward unity between the feuding Palestinian factions Fatah and Hamas, calling it a threat to Israel and a setback to peace. But he quietly indicated Israel could accept reconciliation if Hamas reformed. “Israel insists that the PA not allow any base whatsoever for Hamas terrorist actions from PA areas in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) or from Gaza, if the PA indeed takes responsibility for its territory,” his office said in a statement Oct. 12 after the deal was inked. “Israel will monitor developments on the ground and act according.” Netanyahu reacted very differently to the failed 2014 reconciliation attempt by Fatah, which governs the West Bank, and Hamas, the terrorist group that runs Gaza. At the time,
Israel froze negotiations and severed diplomatic relations with the Palestinian Authority. Circumstances have since changed. Israel has persistent fears about the costs of Palestinian reconciliation. But the prime minister’s restrained response, despite calls from right-wing ministers for more aggressive measures, reflects the potential benefits of letting the attempt play out, at least for now. On Oct. 12, Fatah and Hamas signed a reconciliation deal in Cairo that reportedly will see the Palestinian Authority take over Gaza’s border crossings and assume full administrative control of the territory in the coming months. Some 3,000 Palestinian security officers are to join the Gaza police force. Elections are to be held for a national unity government. But Netanyahu has made clear that Israel maintains its longstanding stance against Hamas rejoining the Palestinian Authority — which Hamas broke from when it violently seized control of Gaza in 2007
Khaled Desouki/AFP/Getty Images
Hamas and Fatah leaders shake hands after signing a reconciliation deal at the Egyptian intelligence services headquarters in Cairo, Oct. 12
— unless the terrorist group makes historic reforms, including disarming, recognizing the Jewish state, and breaking off relations with Iran. “Reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas makes peace much harder to achieve,” Netanyahu wrote on his office’s Facebook page after the deal was announced. “Reconciling
with mass-murderers is part of the problem, not part of the solution. Say yes to peace and no to joining hands with Hamas.” Members of Netanyahu's right-wing government urged an even tougher line. But Haaretz reported that Netanyahu told top ministers that Israel would neither cut ties with the Palestinian Authority, as ad-
vocated by Education Minister Naftali Bennett, nor act to stop reconciliation. Israel has plenty of reasons to worry about Hamas joining the Palestinian Authority. The reconciliation deal reportedly does not address Hamas’ military wing, which has repeatedly fired rockets at, terrorized, and warred with Israel. After the signing, Hamas’ deputy political leader, Saleh al-Arouri, said the purpose was for all Palestinian forces to “work together against the Zionist enterprise, which seeks to wipe out and trample the rights of our people.” According to Israeli analysts, Hamas could let the Palestinian Authority handle the administration of Gaza while it focuses on bolstering its terrorist infrastructure and planning new attacks on Israelis. A plan that would have P.A. officials who oversee the coastal strip’s border crossings move back and forth between the West Bank and Gaza also raises security Continued on Page 24
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for two weeks of winter break plus the Jan. and Feb. days off from school. For additional information, contact Meryl Hattenbach at mhattenbach@jfgd.net THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
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228-8271 By Andrew Tobin, JTA he is committed to pursuing JERUSALEM — The a peace agreement based on Jeff Noble Israeli political scene has the two-state solution, but www.mridayton.com • email: info@mridayton.com always been one of stark said “there is no point in contrasts between the two committing to (evacuating most iconic, if not always all the settlements) as a startmost successful, parties: ing point for talks.” DINSMORE & SHOHL LLP dovish Labor vs. hawkish Lapid remained silent. LEGAL COUNSEL | DAYTON Likud. While Likud leader But in an essay in the AtlanFifth Third Center Benjamin Netanyahu drew tic magazine in October, the 1 S. Main St., Suite 1300 Labor’s Avi Gabbay Yesh Atid’s Yair Lapid huge numbers of settlers Yesh Atid leader supported (937) 449-6400 | dinsmore.com in his most recent election as police investigations swirl Netanyahu's hawkish views as prime minister, uprootaround Netanyahu, his family on Iran. Lapid accused Tehran Ralph E. Heyman Lisa S. Pierce ing Jewish homes in the West and associates. of lying to the West and using Edward M. Kress Philip A. Zukowsky Bank was taken for granted in According to Abraham Disthe nuclear agreement to move multiple Labor-led peace efforts kin, a political science professor toward becoming a regional ADVERTISING MATERIAL. ©2017. All rights reserved. since party leader Yitzhak Rabin at the Hebrew University of nuclear power. Iran has denied signed the Oslo Accords in 1992. Jerusalem, both Gabbay and it seeks nuclear weapons. But the head of the reliably Lapid hope to reach rightward “I don’t often agree with pro-peace Labor Party defied and win over some of the prime Prime Minister Netanyahu," that dynamic in an interview minister's traditional Likud sup- Lapid wrote, "but his descripbroadcast Oct. 17, saying he porters, which is why they can tion of Iranian President Hassan would not evacuate settlements sound like him. Rouhani as a ‘wolf in sheep’s as part of a final status agree“You really have to control clothing’ is right on the money.” ment with the Palestinians. the arithmetic center in the In fact, Lapid has found conAvi Gabbay told Channel 2 Knesset,” Diskin said. “That sensus at times with Netanyahu that the notion this is necessary means attracting defectors from since the start of his political was mistaken. the right wing, including the career. After his upstart party’s “I think the dynamic and Likud.” surprising election showing in terminology that have become Gabbay first made headlines 2013, Lapid ruled out trying to commonplace here, that if you at a Shabbat event in the south- form a government with the make peace, evacuate, is not in ern city of Beersheba when he Joint List. He called its members fact correct,” he said. “If you declared that unlike other Labor “Zoabis” in reference to the anmake a peace deal, it is posleaders in the past, he would ti-Zionist Arab-Israeli lawmaker sible to find solutions that don’t not join a governing coalition Hanin Zoabi, whom Netanyahu Send your letters (350 words max., thanks) to require evacuating." with the Arab parties that make has repeatedly sought to silence. The Dayton Jewish Observer, 525 Versailles Drive Various Labor leaders and up the Joint List — of which Instead, Lapid became NetanDayton, OH 45459 • MWeiss@jfgd.net others in the opposition disNetanyahu is a frequent critic. yahu’s finance minister. tanced themselves from GabGabbay also told a crowd bay’s comments after they were in Dimona that he is not sure aired in a preview. there is a Palestinian partner for Under prime ministers Rabin, peace. Netanyahu has said reShimon Peres and Ehud Barak, peatedly he is sure there is not. Labor pushed for peace based In the Oct. 17 interview, Gabon the premise that settlers bay made two other surprising would have to move across statements in addition to the Israel's new border. one about settlements. He said Tzipi Livni of the center-left Netanyahu should only step Zionist Union said Gabbay’s down if indicted on allegations statement does not reflect the that he took bribes — allegaposition of her party, which tions Netanyahu denies. Other is allied with Labor. While figures on the left have called Israel would of course retain for the prime minister’s head the major settlement blocs, she in the wake of the corruption said, unfortunately “you can’t allegations. promise everyone they can stay Asked how his position on in their homes.” settlements differed from that Gabbay’s comments seem of Netanyahu, who has said to move his center-left party that uprooting settlers would rightward at a time when he amount to ethnic cleansing, is vying with Yesh Atid leader Gabbay said he was committed • Skilled Nursing Center Yair Lapid to be the centrist to reaching a deal — unlike the alternative to Netanyahu. Both prime minister. • Elegant Assisted Living men are adopting or withhold“There is a huge gap between • Independent Living Community ing criticism of some of the those who at least want to get prime minister's positions in the there and those who don’t want • Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care process. to get there,” he said. • Rehabilitation Services And with some exceptions, On Oct. 16, Gabbay reportGabbay and Lapid have reedly backtracked in a text mesfrained lately from seriously at- sage to Zionist Union members. tacking the prime minister, even He assured his associates that 5070 Lamme Rd. - Kettering - OH - 45439
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THE WORLD Ohr Torah Stone
Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, the charismatic Modern Orthodox rabbi from New York who founded the West Bank settlement of Efrat, has been giving Orthodox women the equivalent of rabbinic training for a decade. His Susi Bradfield Women’s Institute of Halakhic Leadership, founded in 2007, offers women the same curriculum as Orthodox Israeli men studying for rabbinical ordination. After five years of study, the women take the Rabbi Shuki Reich (L) seminary head of the Susi Bradfield Women’s Institute of same tests as the Halakhic Leadership, and Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, chancellor of Ohr Torah Stone, men and, Riskin present Rabbanit Shira Zimmerman with her certification as a spiritual leader and arbiter of Jewish law at a ceremony in Jerusalem, Jan. 3 told JTA, graduate with the ability to “teach and direct Jewish law, Israel has a haredi Orthodox By Ben Sales, JTA just like a rabbi.” It’s not that Chief Rabbinate, a growing Ever since Rabbi Avi Weiss haredi population and govern- different from Weiss’ seminary, began training female clergy and appointing them to leader- ment policies that discriminate Yeshivat Maharat, whose fouryear curriculum gives women ship positions, he’s been mired against liberal Jewish movethe “necessary skills to be conments. The backlash would be in controversy. fident and compelling spiritual even worse, right? Graduates of his women’s Wrong. Actually, Israel might leaders in the Jewish commuseminary in Riverdale, N.Y., nity,” according to its website. be the friendliest environment have been banned from serv“Studying Torah and develfor Orthodox women seeking ing as clergy or in a position something on par with rabbinic oping leadership within Torah of spiritual authority by two is part of every human being,” ordination. The country has a umbrella Modern Orthodox Riskin told JTA. “Men and parallel to Weiss’ organization organizations. Weiss left the — an educational network that women equally are created in Orthodox Rabbinical Council God’s image, and one of the advances Orthodox women of America in protest of its miracles of our generation is policies. Rabbis to his right fre- headed by a prominent, outTorah learning for women.” quently question his Orthodox spoken liberal Orthodox rabbi But while the Orthodox — and it’s enjoyed greater accredentials. ceptance and had less backlash Union and RCA have issued What if a rabbi in Israel did rulings against Maharat graduthan the efforts by Weiss. something similar? After all, ates, the Bradfield Institute received a vote of confidence from the Modern Orthodox establishment in October: Rabbi Kenneth Brander, a vice president of Yeshiva University, the flagship Modern Orthodox school, will be replacing Riskin next year after he retires. Brander will become president of Ohr Torah Stone, the network of educational institutions that Riskin founded and leads. Along with the women’s seminary, the network includes primary and high schools, academies for young adults and higher education for men. It also offers a program to train women to be advocates in courts of Jewish law. Riskin, 77, will remain involved with the organization in an unofficial capacity and remain chief rabbi of Efrat. Brander has a history of
Why it’s easier to ordain Orthodox women in Israel than the US
PAGE 8
like Soviet Jewry and keeping advancing Orthodox women: a church off the grounds of He led the Graduate Program Auschwitz. of Advanced Talmudic Studies While graduates of Maharat and Biblical Interpretation for Women at Y.U., where he serves eschew the title “rabbi,” Weiss ordained his first graduate, Sara as vice president for university Hurwitz, as rabba. And when and community life. Before Weiss left the RCA in 2015, it arriving at Y.U., he was rabbi of the Boca Raton Synagogue, a was his own decision, made in large Modern Orthodox congre- protest. His men’s seminary, Yeshivat Hovevei Torah, is seen gation in South Florida. in part as a liberal challenge to “Engaging women to study Yeshiva University's rabbinical and engage in leadership roles school. on the highest level is always By contrast, Riskin has tried something that’s excited me,” to advance his vision of OrthoBrander told JTA. “It does us doxy while avoiding ruffling proud and empowers us when we’re able to allow them to play feathers. The Israeli Chief Rabbinate did threaten to force him leadership roles.” out of his chief rabbi position in Graduates of Bradfield are 2015 before backing down. called morat horaah, which Brander says Riskin sucRiskin roughly translates to ceeded in coalescing some Jewish legal leader. The term Israeli Orthodox leaders around is similar to the title given to advanced women’s education. graduates of Weiss’ seminary, Rabbi David Stav, a promimaharat, an acronym for Jewish legal, spiritual and Torah leader. nent Israeli Modern Orthodox rabbi who leans liberal, became Yeshivat Maharat graduates co-chancellor of Ohr Torah have gone on to serve in synaStone in 2015 and will remain in gogues and schools. Bradfield graduates have likewise served a leadership role. “What Rabbi Riskin and Ohr as teachers and spiritual leadTorah Stone have done is create ers. a consensus among a comBrander and Riskin both munity on the responsibility to declined to comment directly on Yeshivat Maharat. But Riskin educate women on the highest level,” Brander said, adding suggested that because Orthothat the consensus has credoxy is so dominant in Israeli religious life, there’s more space ated space for “women to play stronger leadership roles in the to subdivide into groups and Jewish commuinnovate. within the While ConIsrael might be nity parameters of servative and Jewish law.” Reform Judathe friendliest Weiss praised ism are the environment Brander and largest Jewish told JTA that denominations for Orthodox Riskin “will in the United women seeking be viewed in States, only a history as the small number of something on greatest ModIsraelis identify par with rabbinic ern Orthodox with them. The leader of the vast majority of ordination latter half of the Israeli religious 20th century.” Jews identify He did not comment directly with some form of Orthodoxy. on the contrast between the two “In America there are probschools. lems in assimilation,” Riskin But Orthodox women’s advosaid, adding that American Orthodox leaders “are afraid of cates in the U.S. say Brander’s appointment helps them, too. any kind of change that might lead to assimilation, the specter Hurwitz said “there are many, many similarities” between of the Conservative woman Maharat and Bradfield. And rabbi. In Israel, we don’t have Sharon Weiss-Greenberg, the the challenge of Conservative and Reform. We don’t have the executive director of the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance, challenge of intermarriage and said that despite their differassimilation.” ences, the Modern Orthodox Riskin has also been less of communities in Israel and the a publicly controversial figure U.S. influence each other. than Weiss. Before founding “What the O.U. has done and Maharat, Weiss was known as RCA has tried to do is separate a confrontational activist who the politics of American Jews would chain himself to public from what’s going on in Israel, buildings and get arrested for and you can’t do that,” she said. protesting on behalf of causes THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
THE WORLD
Israel bans a decade-long scam that bilked millions worldwide By Andrew Tobin, JTA JERUSALEM — Israel's multibilliondollar binary options industry, which has scammed millions around the world over the past decade, is out of business. On Oct. 23, the Knesset unanimously passed a law to ban the industry, with 53 votes in favor and none against. By the time the measure goes into effect in three months, all binary options firms will have to shutter. Individuals who stay involved in the industry will face up to two years in jail. “We worry about the BDS movement,” Knesset member Rachel Azaria of the Kulanu party said in her introduction to the law. “This industry has a huge impact on how Israel is viewed throughout the world. Our government officials go to international conferences and their colleagues abroad raise their eyebrows because of this industry.” According to The Times of Israel, whose dogged English-language reporting on binary options pushed officials to take action, the binary options industry in Israel has brought in up to $10 billion a year over the past decade. Hundreds of local companies have defrauded millions of people worldwide. Only a handful of Israelis have been arrested for binary options fraud, and none have been indicted, even as international law enforcement against the industry has ramped up. In August, Israel Police Superintendent Gabi Biton said Israeli organized crime was being massively enriched and strengthened because of law enforcement's failure to grasp the scope of the problem. Binary options are marketed as a financial instrument that can yield big returns fast. The companies’ websites allow clients to place bets on whether a commodity, like a stock or trading index, will increase or decrease in value over a short time period. In most cases, though, clients lose all or nearly all the money they invested because the game is rigged. Salespeople regularly use false identities and misrepresent their location, credentials and product. A Hong Kong woman who asked to remain anonymous lost about $10 million to an Israel-based binary options company over the past two years. Aggressive and dishonest salespeople bilked her of her life savings, the unmarried retiree said, as well as millions of dollars lent by family and friends. “The cost is not just money. I lost my peace of mind. I'm very jumpy. My health has deteriorated,” she told JTA in
April. “The burden of having to repay my family is weighing on me every day.” In 2016, responding to The Times of Israel’s work, Israeli leaders began to call for action. In August, Jewish Agency head Natan Sharansky urged the government to shutter the “repugnant, immoral” industry. In October, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office advocated a worldwide ban on its “unscrupulous” practices. Early this year, the Knesset’s State Control Committee held a series of sessions to discuss how to stop binary options fraud. Soon after, Israel Securities Authority Chairman Shmuel Hauser drafted legislation that would have outlawed not only binary options companies, but also those involved in the foreign exchange market, or Forex, and CFD financial instruments. Heavy pressure from the binary options industry and lobbyists on its behalf failed to stop passage of the new law, but it was narrowed to leave out the other investments. Israeli opponents of the industry welcomed the Knesset action. Yossy Haezrachy, a partner at the FriedmanHaezrachy law firm in Tel Aviv, said the law, though too long in coming, would aid his pursuit of justice for victims of binary options fraud. “I think it has an effect on the judicial system,” he said. “The passage of the bill shows judges that a major part of this industry in fraudulent.” However, Austin Smith, the founder of Wealth Recovery International, a company that reclaims money for binary options victims, called the law “total garbage.” He said it left scammers free to shift into new rackets without answering for their past wrongdoing. “It’s more a political talking point than actually something with teeth that's going to stop more fraud from being perpetrated,” he said. “It also does nothing to help victims of fraud recover any of their money.” Smith said he is working with attorneys around the world to track the heads of binary options companies as they open operations in Cyprus and other countries and move into industries like diamond sales, cryptocurrencies and predatory business loans.
By the time the measure goes into effect in three months, all binary options firms will have to shutter.
Are you reading this? So is the entire Jewish community. Contact Patty Caruso at plhc69@gmail.com to advertise in The Observer.
October 9-November 20, 2017 War, Revolution, and Jewish Life
An Exhibit from the Blavatnik Archive* King Library, 1st and 3rd Floors, Miami University On this, the 100th anniversary year of the Russian Revolution, the Havighurst Center for Russian & Post-Soviet Studies, the Miami University Libraries, and Hillel at Miami are proud to sponsor an exhibit of documents and oral histories from the Blavatnik Archive that focuses on Jewish daily life during the 1917 Revolution through the Second World War.
Friday, November 3 War, Revolution and Jewish Life A Symposium on the Blavatnik Archive King Library 320, 3:00-5:00pm
In conjunction with the exhibit in King Library, an afternoon symposium will explore the Blavatnik Archive materials, featuring three leading scholars of Jewish history. Eugene Avrutin, University of Illinois A Tale of Two Murders: The Velizh and Beilis Blood Libel Cases Anna Shternshis, University of Toronto And Then I killed Him: Red Army Soldiers Speak of the End of the Holocaust Jeffrey Veidlinger, University of Michigan A Kind of Victory? The Return of Jews to Small-Town Ukraine
A reception will precede the symposium and a Shabbat dinner, hosted by Hillel at Miami, will follow. Shabbat Dinner at Hillel
11 East Walnut Street, Oxford OH, 6:30pm (this is preceded by a 6:00pm service) Open to the public but space is limited. RSVP to admin@muhillel.org
*The Blavatnik Archive in New York City is a non-profit foundation dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of primary resources that contribute to the study of 20th century Jewish and world history, with a special emphasis on WWI, WWII and the interwar period.
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
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OPINION
Eager for the US to pull out of UNESCO? Not so fast. By Kenneth Jacobson The issue of how and why the United States should engage with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is back in the news. The announcement by the Trump administration that the U.S. will be pulling out of UNESCO over its biased treatment of Israel is only the latest manifestation of a fraught relationship between America and this U.N. body. Established soon after World War II as an effort to ensure the de-Nazification in Germany and the promotion of democratic values, UNESCO took a more complicated turn in later decades. While still doing important work in preserving cultural heritages and reinforcing the value of education, science and culture, UNESCO also entered treacherous terrain in two areas: Reflecting its huge expansion in the 1960s and ‘70s consisting mostly of new emerging states, it began to challenge Western notions of a free press and the independence of journalism from government; and, echoing the trend in the General Assembly and other U.N. bodies, it singled out Israel as an alleged major violator of cultural and religious sites dear to Muslims and Palestinians. This combination of behavior led the United States to take action on three occasions. The first was in 1974, when Congress suspended appropriations to UNESCO because the U.N. body had excluded Israel from a regional working
group. The second was in 1983, when the U.S. pulled out of UNESCO, saying the body has shown hostility to a free market and a free press. And in 2011, Congress again cut funding to UNESCO, citing the organization's recognition of Palestine as a member, in violation of U.S. law going back to the early 1990s, requiring cuts to any U.N. agency if the “State of Palestine” were accepted as a full member. The arguments about U.S. policy toward UNESCO remain pretty much what they have been for years. Those who argue for leaving conclude that America should not be a party to an institution that engages in such egregious behavior. And if we are ever going to get UNESCO back to first principles we need to be firm, tough and consistent. The U.S. can always return as a full member, and for now can continue to provide American perspective and expertise as a nonmember observer. Pulling out is “a courageous and ethical decision because UNESCO has become a theatre of the absurd and instead of preserving history, distorts it,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted in response to the U.S. announcement. Advocates of continuing support agree that UNESCO does disturbing things, particularly through resolutions passed by various committees, including its executive board, that condemn Israel and even, at times, seem to deny
the legitimacy of Israeli historic claims to the land of Israel. Still, they argue, the organization does a lot of good work in the scientific, educational and cultural fields that particularly benefits less developed nations. This work includes Holocaust education and efforts to counter violent extremism. Moreover, proponents argue, even though the U.S. loses many votes, it should stay in and fund the body because the potential for influence and changing minds is far greater from inside than outside. And since most of the voting decisions are made by memberstates themselves, the U.S. is best positioned to change behaviors through direct diplomacy with those countries and not through punishing UNESCO itself. Then there are questions of timing and context. UNESCO’s executive board just elected a new director of the organization, turning down the original favorite, Qatari diplomat Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari, who is known for his history of antisemitism. Instead they chose a French diplomat, Audrey Azoulay, a former culture minister who also happens to be Jewish. While Azoulay has voiced criticism of Israel in the past, she at least offers the possibility of tempering the institution’s bias against the Jewish state. While the director-general does not have the power to cancel votes, the outgoing diplomat in that position, Irina Bokova of Bulgaria, was an outspoken critic of anti-Israel politicization at UNESCO and made great efforts behind the scenes to mitigate extreme campaigns. Should we not give Ms. Azoulay a chance to improve the situation?
On a broader scale, the Trump administration decision comes at a time when our allies and adversaries are questioning American leadership in the world. With all the mistakes of our foreign policy, U.S. leadership for almost 70 years has been good for the world and good for the Jewish people. This move may be seen as inconsistent with American values and tradition, and one more step of dismantling the unique role America has played on the world scene for decades. In sum, despite its legitimate concerns, America will be shooting itself in the foot by leaving. Both sides make legitimate claims. This is no slam dunk. It is always encouraging to see a U.S. administration taking a strong principled position based on its rejection of institutional bias against the state of Israel. This sets a good example. If only many of our allies would be as interested in standing up for Israel when it is under unfair attack, Israel not only would be in a better place, but chances for peace would increase and the reputation and functioning of the United Nations would rise to a higher level. The most recent UNESCO vote condemning Israel for its actions in Hebron did show more nations willing to abstain or even vote “no,” but not nearly enough to change the outcome. The U.S. decision on UNESCO has been announced, but there is still time before it is implemented. A further discussion and assessment are in order even if we end up in the very same place. Ken Jacobson is deputy national director of the Anti-Defamation League.
Harvey Weinstein shows us how perpetrators pose as victims By Rabbi Ruti Regan In an interview with The Daily Beast, George Clooney described Harvey Weinstein as a very powerful man with a tendency to hit on young beautiful women over whom he had power. Despite the “rumors” he had heard about Weinstein’s openly predatory behavior, Clooney expressed sincere shock and outrage at the widespread sexual misconduct allegations directed at Weinstein. Clooney is not alone in this cognitive dissonance. MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow reported that well before articles in The New York Times and The New Yorker quoted dozens of his victims, his colleagues routinely referenced his behavior in public speeches. Everyone knew that Weinstein abused his power, yet the harm he did to his victims was a well-kept secret. Michelle Obama addressed this dynamic last year in response to the news that then-candidate Donald Trump had been caught on tape bragging about sexual assault. She said that women are drowning in violence and abuse and disrespect, and trying to pretend that it doesn’t hurt because it’s too dangerous to look weak. Victims are coerced into treating the harm they suffer as a shameful secret, even when the crimes committed against them are public knowledge.
So, what do you think?
Send your letters (350 words max., thanks) to: The Dayton Jewish Observer, 525 Versailles Drive, Dayton, OH 45459 • MWeiss@jfgd.net PAGE 10
In their consistent testimony about Weinstein’s behavior, his victims describe the professional and legal pressure they faced to be peaceful and show the world that they were OK. Weinstein does not face this pressure. In multiple statements, he has expressed intense distress in terms that suggest he feels he is entitled to sympathy and validation. He has also expressed an expectation that he will be forgiven and restored to his position if he makes enough progress in therapy. Women and other marginalized people are familiar with this pattern. When accused of abusive or oppressive behavior, privileged people seem to expect that with the right combination of apparent remorse and therapy, others will comfort and forgive them. Women who complain about sexual harassment, disabled people who demand usable bathrooms and people of color who ask white people to stop using racial slurs all face this kind of emotional retaliation. Victims are pressured to disregard their own feelings in order to help perpetrators feel better about themselves. Weinstein briefly apologized for the “pain” caused by his behavior, but pivoted quickly to emphasize his own feelings. “Although I’m trying to do better, I know I have a long way to go. That is my commitment,” his statement read. “My journey now will be to learn about myself and conquer my demons.” Weinstein is pursuing therapy not for the sake of his victims, but because he is suffering and would like to feel better. Weinstein and others who see their
own moral injury as a bigger problem than the harm they have done have no trouble finding therapists and spiritual leaders willing to validate their worldview. Spiritual leaders and therapists are too often more willing to put pressure on victims to forgive. For both victims and perpetrators, justice is dismissed as a spiritual distraction and healing is purported to depend on deciding that the abuse doesn’t really matter anymore. Well-meaning people rush in to tell victims that their abusers “only have as much power as you give them,” as if spiritual growth can somehow stop bullets, restore lost professional standing or render formative experiences irrelevant. Abuse has consequences that are beyond the control of victims, but it is almost never socially acceptable to acknowledge this. This is spiritually corrosive to everyone involved. Superficially gentle lectures on the importance of tolerance, forgiveness and second chances prevent those who are being drowned from crying out for justice. This cowardice sometimes disguises itself as the virtue of tolerance, but it is just as misogynistic as sexual harassment. Both of these violent acts send the message to victims that their lives matter less than someone else’s self-image. Victims of all genders deserve solidarity from their spiritual leaders. It is time to stop keeping secrets about the consequences of abuse. Rabbi Ruti Regan is a Conservative rabbi and disabled disability advocate. THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
THE WORLD
State anti-BDS laws hit unintended targets and nobody’s happy By Ron Kampeas, JTA WASHINGTON — On May 2, Israel's Independence Day, Texas State Rep. Phil King stood smiling as Gov. Greg Abbott signed King's bill banning the state from doing business with boycotters of Israel. “Anti-Israel policies are anti-Texas policies, and we will not tolerate such actions against an important ally,” Abbott said of the bill that overwhelmingly passed the Legislature. Less than six months later, King had to explain why his signature pro-Israel policy was not an anti-Texas policy. City officials in Dickinson, a suburb of Houston hard hit by Hurricane Harvey, required any applicant for relief grants to verify that he or she “(1) does not boycott Israel; and (2) will not boycott Israel during the term of this Agreement.” The American Civil Liberties Union took notice and loudly objected. Observers noted the queasy-making optics of a pro-Israel policy standing in the way of hurricane relief. King, a Republican whose district includes Fort Worth, immediately started making calls to track down the Dickinson officials who drafted the contract. “It’s a complete misunderstanding of the statute,” he said in an interview after what had been for him a surprisingly
busy day, after the ACLU's objections made news. The office of Larry Taylor, a Republican who sponsored the law in the state Senate and whose district includes Dickinson, also was fielding questions about the law. If Dickinson is indeed misunderstanding the law, the case nevertheless brought to the fore misgivings about the measures passed in more than 20 states targeting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement aimed at Israel. Critics say they may impinge on free speech rights and create a backlash by making it seem the government is using the law to suppress one side in a political debate. A federal law prohibiting compliance with or support of a boycott of Israel is facing stumbling blocks. Opponents of the laws say the Dickinson case, and one in Kansas, where a teacher trainer who supports a boycott of Israel is refusing to sign a state contract that includes an anti-boycott clause, prove their point. “In addition to being mystifying — what do home repairs in Texas have to do with a country more than 7,000 miles away? — this requirement is clearly unconstitutional,” Brian Hauss, an ACLU staff attorney wrote in a blog post.
Office of the Texas Governor
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signing his state's anti-BDS bill at a Jewish Community Center in Austin, May 2
The ACLU, which says it takes no position on boycotts per se, is leading a campaign to stem the tide of anti-BDS laws. “The First Amendment protects the right of Americans to participate in political boycotts, a right explicitly recognized by the Supreme Court in a case that concerned an NAACP-organized boycott to protest white supremacy in Port Gibson, Mississippi,” Hauss wrote. Defenders and sponsors of the law say that like many laws, the anti-BDS statutes are undergoing birth pains. “These are new laws, they’ve been
passed in the last couple of years and not everyone is going to immediately understand what they’re supposed to do,” Eugene Kontorovich, a legal scholar who helped draft many of the laws, said in an interview. The Israel Project, among an array of national groups that advocated for the laws, said it was reaching out to officials on a case-by-case basis to make sure the laws are understood. “We’ve been in touch with legislators when issues have come up, we've spoken with attorneys and legislators in various states,” said Jacob Millner, the Midwest director for The Israel Project. The controversies over Dickinson and the Kansas case come at a critical time for a congressional bill that would extend 1970s laws targeting the Arab League boycott to those who comply with boycotts initiated by international organizations like the European Union or United Nations. The Israel AntiBoycott Act, which has support from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, also would expand the prohibited boycotts to those that target only settlement goods. Violators who do participate in boycotts face fines and, in some cases, imprisonment. Continued on next page
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
PAGE 11
THE WORLD
State anti-BDS laws
A CONCERT OF JEWISH MUSIC
Courtney Cummings SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12 AT 4PM Special guest appearances by Cantor Jenna Greenberg, Cantor Andrea Raizen, and the Dayton Jewish Chorale Featuring soaring melodies by Janowski, Richards, and Rossi juxtaposed with classic favorites from Rogers & Hammerstein and Copland, and new interpretations of ancient texts, with a splash of Ladino and Yiddish. Free and open to the public. Temple Israel • www.tidayton.org • 937.496.0050 130 Riverside Drive, Dayton, OH 45405 A Reform Synagogue open to all who are interested in Judaism. Childcare provided during Friday services and Sunday school. PAGE 12
“These laws are necessary, they’re effective and they need to be enforced Continued from previous page appropriately,” he said in an interview. AIPAC wants broad bipartisan back“These are laws that take a stand against ing for the bill, but only 14 of the Demo- discrimination, as drafted they do not cratic caucus’ 48 members are co-sponinfringe on individuals’ liberties.” soring the legislation. The case in Kansas may be stickier Notably, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of to defend: The state’s law does include New York — who in the past has assidu- individuals who boycott Israel as targets. ously courted the pro-Israel community The law led the Texas Department — dropped her co-sponsorship after of Education to send to Esther Koontz, presentations from the ACLU and prowho had completed a course on training Palestinian activists. math teachers, a form titled Certification Sen. Ben. Cardin, D-Md., the lead Individual or Company Not Currently Democratic sponsor of the bill, said the Engaged in a Boycott of Israel. law is sound, but he is open to some Koontz, inspired by her Mennonite revisions to make it clearer that it does church, was boycotting Israel and would not undercut free speech. not sign the document. The ACLU filed a Dickinson City Management Assistant lawsuit on her behalf in a federal court. Bryan Milward told JTA that the city was Kontorovich said that in the Kansas applying the law correctly. case, it was Koontz and the ACLU who “Because our application also funcwere misconstruing the statute: Koontz tions as a contract, it was included in would still have the right to boycott there,” he said. Israel as an individual as long as she King said that was simply not the did not boycott it as a contractor — an case. unlikely scenario, he said, for someone "My understanding of what Dickinwho trains Kansas math teachers in how son is doing is they have private funds to improve their teaching skills. being distributed for a grant program “She’s a consumer boycotter, she’s tryfor individuals,” he said in the interview. ing to bootstrap that onto the commer“The law has nothing to do with private cial boycott” banned by the law in order funds, it has nothing to do with indito make a federal case, he said. “Her viduals.” personal and her business relationship A reading of the law bears out King’s cannot be conflated.” bafflement: It refers only to for-profit Hauss of the ACLU, who is representcompanies as the targeted boycotters, ing Koontz, said the Kansas Education and goes to lengths to define a company Department was enforcing exactly what as not applying to an individual. the Kansas law, enacted this summer, It also lists six specific government prescribes. entities that are required not to do busi“It seems to me that they’re enforcing ness with the targeted companies: five the statute as written,” he said. "These retirement systems and the school fund. laws are meant to do precisely the thing Dickinson’s grant program, with funds the Supreme Court has said is prohibraised from private individuals, would ited, which is to suppress the right to not qualify. boycott.” Also seizing on the Kansas and Texas cases to illustrate the pitfalls of the laws Unintended consequences? is Jewish Voice for Peace, a group that Laws have unintended consequences supports BDS. Its government affairs and even when misapplied can backfire liaison, Rabbi Joseph Berman, calls the on their drafters’ intent, said Rachel Lerner, the senior vice president for com- federal bill and the Kansas law “an antidemocratic attempt to silence a nonviomunity relations at J Street. The liberal lent movement for equality for PalestinJewish Mideast lobby opposes BDS, but ians and a just peace for everyone in the sees the anti-BDS laws as infringing on region.” free speech. Pro-Israel groups should Peggy Shapiro, the Midwest director stick to advocacy to counter BDS and of StandWithUs, a pro-Israel group that avoid legislative bids to stop the boyhas advocated for the laws, said that cotts, says J Street. “You're pursuing a strategy that’s out opponents were cherry picking cases in order to make the laws look bad. of your control how it's implemented,” “The fact that people want to generalLerner said. “It's like using a cudgel for an issue; it’s the wrong tool. It's not good ize one or two outliers, their intention is not to expose the errors but to underfor the Jews or Israel that people think mine the ability to prevent discriminathat they can't have a roof over their tion against Israel,” she said. head if they boycott Israel.” Rabbi Jill Jacobs, director of T'ruah, a The New Israel Fund, another liberal rabbinical human rights advocacy group, group, said in a release that the Texas case proved the anti-BDS laws were “just said the laws were likely to continue to backfire. She said the focus of pro-Israel plain wrong.” advocacy should be on Israel's governThe Jewish Federations of North ment and its practices. America will feature a session at its “The way to increase support for General Assembly in Los Angeles in NoIsrael is not to shut down dissent but vember on how to pass such laws. The make Israel a place we can be more session, featuring three lawmakers who put forward such bills, is still very much proud of, and central to that is ending on, said Ethan Felson, the director of the the occupation and making Israel a more democratic state,” she said. JFNA-affiliated Israel Action Network. THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
Jewish Federation of GREATER DAYTON › YAD: Treats 4 Tikkun Olam Thursday, November 9 @ 6PM
Lindy's Bakery (701 Patterson Blvd., 45402) Assist with baking or packaging Dayton’s famous Lindy’s dog treats. Contact Cheryl Carne at ccarne@jfgd.net for more information and to RSVP by November 3.
› PJ Library & Hillel Academy: An Afternoon of Dreaming Sunday, November 19 @ 3:30–5PM Hillel Academy (305 Sugar Camp Cir, 45409) An afternoon of dreaming and art. Performances from Hillel’s latest production, a ‘dreamy’ PJ story, and a dream themed art project designed by a Hillel art teacher. No cost to attend.
› #GivingTuesday Tuesday, November 28 @ 8:30AM–6:30PM
Boonshoft CJCE Stop by to roll up your sleeves for some hands-on philanthropic activities! We will make soup for a local soup kitchen, pack care packages for IDF soldiers, and decorate cards and bags for our senior Chanukah bags. Stop in for a small mitzvah, or stay for dinner! Open to the entire community, and all ages.
› PJ Grandparents: December Dilemma Thursday, November 30 @ 6PM
Greene Community Room Join PJ Library Grandparents for a discussion about how to navigate the "December Dilemma", and what resources PJ Library has to help families through what can be a difficult time of year. Dairy Kosher dinner provided. RSVP Required.
RSVPs are due at least 1 week before event. Events with no price listed are free. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RSVP (unless noted):
937-610-1555 www.jewishdayton.org
Inspired by the core need, strengthening Jewish For the Love of Children, Jewish value of Tikkun life, and creating connections and care packages for IDF Olam, repairing the world, among Jews-acting locally, soldiers in Israel. Help #GivingTuesday was in Israel, and around decorate cards and gift bags founded in 2012 by the the world. Participating for Chanukah bags that 92nd Street Young This year, we will celebrate #GivingTuesday by Men’s and Young Women’s Hebrew rolling up our sleeves and giving back to our Association, along with the United Dayton community. No matter how much time Nations Foundation you have, or what your age, the CJCE is the in 2012. Since then, it has become place to give back on #GivingTuesday! a global movement to celebrate and encourage in #GivingTuesday has will go out to seniors in our giving to counteract the become a tradition, and this community, or help make commercialization and year we are excited to be some soup to bring to a consumerism of the postexpanding our celebration. local soup kitchen. We will Thanksgiving season. Last On November 28, celebrate have light breakfast snacks year, over 98 countries #GivingTuesday with us by out in the morning, and in participated in the rolling up our sleeves and the evening, grab a cup of #GivingTuesday movement, giving back to our Dayton soup for dinner. Stay for and helped to raise over community. 15 minutes or an hour. No $177,000,000 for charities Stop by the Boonshoft matter how much time you around the world. CJCE in Centerville starting have, or what your age, the The Jewish Federation of at 8:30 in the morning, to CJCE is the place to give Greater Dayton fundraises 6:30 at night to donate items back on #GivingTuesday! all year to achieve our for Clothes That Work, #GivingTuesday is a mission of caring for those in our local food pantry, toys for great way to see just a small
part of the work we do at the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton. Along with our agencies; the Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Services, and the Jewish Foundation, we help people in need in Dayton and around the world. You can help us continue our mission and participate in #GivingTuesday by volunteering your time, or by making a gift to our Annual Campaign. Every dollar we raise makes it possible to continue our important work, and we cannot do it without your support. For more information on how to help, or to make a donation please call Juliet Glaser at 937-401-1558.
YAD members Joe, Elliot, and Abby (ages 21–35) had a great time in September at Cincinnati's new ish festival, celebrating Jewish and Israeli art, music, food, and culture. JEWISH FEDERATION of GREATER DAYTON AGENCY NEWSLETTER | NOVEMBER 2017
Scenes from Opening Night Over 125 people attended Opening Night Jewish Community Center of GREATER DAYTON › The Light We Lost with author Jill Santopolo
Wednesday, November 1, 6:30PM @ Coco’s Bistro (250 Warren St., 45402) $30 includes dinner.
of this year's Cultural Arts and Book Festival with Einstein!, a one-man show at Oakwood High School. For more events, see page 26. PHOTO CREDIT: PETER WINE
SEE AD ON PAGE 26 FOR ENTIRE LIST OF CABF EVENTS
› Early Childhood Share Shabbat & Silent Auction
Friday, November 10, 9–10:30 AM @ Boonshoft CJCE Families, friends and special guests are invited to a Shabbat celebration with Early Childhood. Don't miss our PTO Silent Auction, which funds special projects for the preschool.
› Dayton Junior Youth Group (grades 6–8) Bowling Party Saturday, November 11, 7:30PM @ Poelking Bowling Alley (3200 Woodman Dr., 45429)
Bowl with your friends! $10 includes shoes. Contact Meryl Hattenbach for more information and to RSVP.
HEALTH & WELLNESS › Aerobic Conditioning Tues/Thurs @ 9–9:50AM
Fall session continues throughout November. $25 per session for all classes. Through Sinclair Lifelong Learning.
Sukkah building is a team sport!
The Dayton Junior Youth Group kicks off
Just ask (L–R) Hutt Moody, Ilana
the year with some kid-friendly fall fun
Snyder, and Ethan Halasz in RSVPs are due at least 1 week before event. Events with no price listed are free. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RSVP (unless noted):
937-610-1555 www.jewishdayton.org
the Mitzvah Cheder, as they fill the bucket to hold up one of the
at Young’s Dairy. The group is for kids in grades 6–8. See sidebar for information
supports for the classroom sukkah.
about November's event.
PHOTO CREDIT: DANNA KAPLAN
PHOTO CREDIT: MERYL HATTENBACH
JEWISH FEDERATION of GREATER DAYTON AGENCY NEWSLETTER | NOVEMBER 2017
#GivingTuesday = IT'S ANNUAL MEDICARE ENROLLMENT TIME Tikun Olam! Medicare's Annual Enrollment time is when people on Medicare #GivingTuesday, the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is on November 28, 2017. It is a day when communities and organizations worldwide encourage and celebrate giving. Many people, when they think about #GivingTuesday, think about monetary donations. However, #GivingTuesday is not only about seeking financial support. It is also about supporting community. The mission of Jewish Family Services (JFS) addresses providing “individuals and families within the Miami Valley with the tools and services to lead a happy and healthy life.” The reach of JFS goes beyond the Jewish community and into the broader Miami Valley community. Why? JFS is a small social services agency. As such, we rely heavily on our community partners and their expertise to provide a full complement of programs and services for our clients and our community. When our community partners are strong, JFS is strong. When our community as a whole is strong, Jewish Dayton is strong. How will JFS and the other agencies under the umbrella of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton celebrate #GivingTuesday? We are going to give back to the community! On November 28, come to the Boonshoft CJCE to drop off donations for Clothes That Work, the Dayton Foodbank, IDF soldiers, and For Love of Children (FLOC). Also, you can help us decorate Chanukah bags and cards for local seniors and/or help prepare soup that we will deliver to a homeless shelter. You can spend as much or as little time with us as you want and help us support the Miami Valley! For details, please see the Federation page and watch for information on Facebook and in weekly emails. See you November 28.
On Tuesday, October 10, 2017, the Active Adults traveled to Cincinnati. After enjoying lunch at Dewey’s Pizza, we sauntered over to The Skirball Museum, Cincinnati at Hebrew Union College’s Jewish Institute of Religion. There, we were greeted by our docents, Beth Neman and Rosemary Franklin, who gave us a tour of the museum and the special exhibit, Chasing Dreams: Baseball & Becoming American. It was fascinating to learn about the history of baseball through the lens of diversity and inclusion. PHOTO CREDIT: TARA FEINER
can review their current prescription drug and/or Medicare Advantage plans and decide whether to retain them or select different ones that will go into effect on January 1, 2018. This review process takes place between October 15 and December 7 and participation is encouraged because plans can and will change, as will people's medical and prescription drug needs. Four "Medicare Check Up" days will be offered here in Montgomery County to help with this plan review and selection. Medicare counselors from the Ohio Deptartment of Insurance will be on hand to sit down individually with people and help them review their needs and decide on a plan. This is a free service offered by Medicare and OSHIIP, the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program.
Jewish Family Services Jewish Foundation ofof GREATER DAYTON GREATER DAYTON › Active Adults Dine Around Wednesday, November 15 5:30 PM @ Thai 9
Dates for Montgomery County's Check Up Days are:
(11 Brown Street, 45402) Cost on your own. Join us afterward at the Neon for the CABF event. RSVP for dinner and buy your CABF tickets by November 7.
NORTH
› Medicare Open Enrollment
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31 9AM–3PM Vandalia Senior Center
21 Tionda Dr. (off Dixie Dr. in Vandalia) CALL 898-1232 for an appt. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 9AM–3PM Earl Heck Center
201 N. Main St., Englewood CALL 836-5929 for an appt.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 9AM–2PM SIENNA WOODS
6125 N. Main St., Dayton (NAAS Wellness Center) CALL 853-5212 for an appt.
SOUTH
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 9AM–3PM BOONSHOFT CJCE
525 Versailles Dr., Centerville CALL 610-1555 for an appt.
Please bring a list of your current prescription drugs with you to your appointment. Other than Check-Up Days, anyone seeking additional Medicare information or help with plan selection can contact Connie Blum, OSHIIP's County Coordinator, at 274-4717, scblum@earthlink.net. —CONNIE BLUM OSHIIP CERTIFIED MEDICARE COUNSELOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNSELING COORDINATOR
October 15 – December 7, 2017 See article at left for Medicare Check Up days.
› Need Assistance Finding a Food Pantry Near You? Call the United Way Information & Referral Line, 225-3000 or Dial 2-1-1. › Are you caring for a loved one who is not in the Greater Dayton area? While the Network for Jewish Human Service Agencies is working to update its website, it may be difficult to access the Senior Resource Connect portal. Please do not hesitate to contact JFS to find services and supports provided by Jewish agencies nationwide. › Don’t know what to donate in the Food Barrels? How about non-perishable, nonexpired breads, cereals and pasta? HOT AND COLD BREAKFAST CEREALS, including oatmeal and cream of wheat BAKING MIXES, including pancake, corn bread, cake mixes & icing, and quick breads PASTAS AND CANNED SAUCES are greatly appreciated!
RSVPs are due at least 1 week before event. Events with no price listed are free. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RSVP (unless noted):
937-610-1555 www.jewishdayton.org
JEWISH FEDERATION of GREATER DAYTON AGENCY NEWSLETTER | NOVEMBER 2017
Reflecting on my time in Arizona BY JANESE R. SWEENY
›Mamaloshen
A little bit of Yiddish to share with friends, courtesy of the JFS Yiddish Club, in memory of Lynda A. Cohen.
shuch \ SHUCH \ Noun A shoe. Expression with shuch: › Keyner veyst nisht vemen der shuch kvetsht. You can never know the other fellow's troubles (lit., nobody knows whom the
I recently had the opportunity to travel to Scottsdale, Arizona for my first I-LEAD conference. I- LEAD is a conference hosted by JFNA (Jewish Federations of North America) for professionals who are new to Federation in a professional capacity. Learning from people who have dedicated their lives to Jewish communal work was inspiring and a wonderful learning experience. I expected three days of learning and motivating speeches, what I did not expect was meeting another Janeseanother Jewish Janese at that. My colleague, Juliet told me she thought
shoe pinches). › Di shich fun an oremans kinder vaksn mitn fisl. The shoes of a poor man's children grow with their feet. › Ale shusters geyen borves. All shoemakers go barefoot (or, in English, The shoemaker's child always goes barefoot).
another Janese was at the conference. I told her she must be mistaken- no one is named Janese. But there she was. It was an immediate bond and a good laugh. What were the chances? The other Janese lives on the west coast, I am from the Midwest. The other Janese is a Jew by birth; I am a Jew by choice. But a common bond over a true passion for our Jewish community—and a rather uncommon name—was an unexpected perk of my time in the desert. I also had the opportunity to get to know someone I work with every day. Juliet Glaser, our campaign director, and I work together on a daily basis. Our offices are right across the hall from each other. We have always had a great professional relationship, but our time in Arizona gave
us the time to talk about our passion for what we do, our true desire to be successful in our roles, and the pride we take in our work. It doesn't hurt that we both have young families and a love of clothes to solidify the bond. My time at I-LEAD was time well spent. Time gaining knowledge, reflecting and strengthening my passion for my work and our mission as a Jewish Federation. As we enter this new year, I will take these lessons and inspiration with me.
Legacies, Tributes, & Memorials FEDERATION
ANNUAL CAMPAIGN IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman Ellie and Bob Bernstein Donna and Marshall Weiss Mary and Dr. Gary Youra Renee and Dr. Frank Handel Paul Zimmer Joanie and Jim Jacobson
For more information about PJ Library or PJ Our Way or to get a child enrolled in either of these great programs, please contact Juliet Glaser at jglaser@jfgd.net or 401-1541.
HOLOCAUST PROGRAMMING FUND IN HONOR OF › 70th wedding anniversary of Gert and Bob Kahn Shirlee and Dr. Ron Gilbert Donna and Marshall Weiss Cathy Gardner Elaine and Joe Bettman IN MEMORY OF › Jacob Bomstein Helene Gordon and Joe Fodal Shirlee and Dr. Ron Gilbert Kathy and Mark Gordon LINDA RUCHMAN FUND IN HONOR OF › 70th wedding anniversary of Gert and Bob Kahn Judy and Marshall Ruchman
JFS
JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman Helene Gordon Susan and Jonas Gruenberg JCC
MARY BERG CULTURAL ARTS FUND IN MEMORY OF › Jonathan Ezekiel Cathy Gardner JOAN & PETER WELLS AND REBECCA LINVILLE FAMILY, CHILDREN, AND YOUTH FUND IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman Joan and Peter Wells BARBARA FLAGEL PLAYGROUND FUND IN MEMORY OF › Barbara Flagel Melissa and Tim Sweeny Stephen Tamkin
JEWISH FEDERATION of GREATER DAYTON AGENCY NEWSLETTER | NOVEMBER 2017
CULTURAL ARTS/BOOK FAIR IN HONOR OF › 70th wedding anniversary of Gert and Bob Kahn Jane and Dr. Gary Hochstein IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman Jane and Dr. Gary Hochstein CAROL RABINOWITZ YOUTH JEWISH EXPERIENCE FUND IN HONOR OF › The wedding of Alex Katz Bernard Rabinowitz IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel › Arthur Shone › Jack Stein Bernard Rabinowitz FELDMAN FAMILY BBYO FUND IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman Bea Ballas Cathy Gardner
FOUNDATION
JEREMY BETTMAN B’NAI TZEDEK FUND IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman › Jacob Bomstein › Barbara Solkov Jean and Todd Bettman ADDISON CARUSO B’NAI TZEDEK FUND IN MEMORY OF › Loraine Kobel, mother of Debbie Feldman Patti and Mike Caruso & Family SAMMY’S RAINBOW BRIDGE FUND IN MEMORY OF › “Molly” Sweeny Melissa and Tim Sweeny
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Classes
Temple Beth Or Classes: Sat., Nov. 4, 10 a.m. & Sun., Nov. 19, 11 a.m.: Tanach w. Rabbi Chessin. Sun., Nov. 5, 12 & 19, 1 p.m., Advanced Hebrew w. Rabbi Chessin. Sun., Nov. 5, 12 & 19, 1 p.m., Beginning Hebrew w. Rabbi Ballaban. Wed., Nov. 8, 1 p.m., Chai Mitzvah. Topic: Tzedakah. 5275 Marshall Rd., Wash. Twp. 435-3400. Temple Israel Classes: Sundays, noon, Nov. 5, 12 & 19, How Are The Jewish People Holy? Mondays, noon, Nov. 13-Jan. 29, Advanced Beginning Hebrew w. Judy Heller. $80 members/$85 nonmembers. Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., Nov. 8-Jan 24, Beginning Prayerbook & Biblical Hebrew w. Judy Heller. $80 members/$85 nonmembers. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m., Torah Study. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 496-0050.
Fitness
Sinclair Lifelong Learning Aerobic Conditioning: Tues. & Thurs., 9-9:50 a.m. Through Dec. 7. $25 for all sessions. 525 Versailles Dr., Centerville. R.S.V.P. to 610-1555.
Discussions
Beth Abraham Sunday Brunch Speaker Series: Sundays, 10 a.m. $7. Nov. 5: Marc Katz, The Baseball Draft & How It Affects The Reds. Nov. 12: Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Paul Cooper, A Veteran’s Tour In The Desert. Nov. 19: Karin Hirschkatz & Judy Woll, The Education of Mariato Ko: Teaching English To Speakers Of Other Languages. 305 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood. R.S.V.P. to 293-9520. Temple Israel Ryterband Brunch Series: Sundays, 9:45 a.m. $7. Nov. 5, Dr. Donna Schlagheck, WSU, Politics Domestic & Foreign: The Trump Card. Nov. 19: Rabbi Jan Katzew, HUC, Humility: The Supreme & Rare Virtue. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 496-0050.
R.S.V.P. to 610-1555.
Children/Teens
Dayton Junior Youth Group Bowling Party: Sat., Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m. Poelking Lanes, 3200 Woodman Dr., Kettering. Grades 6-8. $10 shoe rental. R.S.V.P. to Meryl Hattenbach, 610-1555.
Young Adults
YAD Volunteers at Lindy’s Dog Treats: Thurs., Nov. 9, 6 p.m. 701 S. Patterson Blvd. R.S.V.P. to Cheryl Carne, 610-1555.
Women
Chabad Ladies’ Shabbat Dinner: Fri., Nov. 3, 6 p.m. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. 6430770.
Seniors
JFS Active Adults Dine Around: Wed., Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m. Thai 9, 11 Brown St., Dayton. R.S.V.P by Nov. 7 to 6101555.
JCC Cultural Arts & Book Fest
Complete schedule on Page 26
Performances
Wright State’s Fiddler on the Roof: Nov. 2-19. Festival Playhouse, Creative Arts Center, $22 adults, $20 students/seniors. Call 775-2500. Temple Israel Recital With Courtney Cummings: Sun., Nov. 12, 4 p.m. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 496-0050.
Exhibits
2017 Max May Memorial Holocaust Art Exhibit: through Nov. 26. Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N. 223-4278.
Community Events
39th Ryterband Symposium: w. Dr. Rachel Adler, HUC LA. Thurs., Nov. 2, 4 p.m.: Women’s Laments & Social Activism. 7:30 p.m.: The Evolution of a Jewish Feminist. E163 Student Union, Wright State. Call Dr. Verman for info., 775-2461. Univ. of Dayton Kristallnacht Commemoration: Tues., Nov. 7, 5 p.m. Immaculate Conception Chapel. 229-3369. Temple Israel Middle Eastern Cooking Demo: w. Simone Lotven Sofian. Tues., Nov. 7, 6 p.m. $10. 12 person max. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. R.S.V.P. by Nov. 3 to 496-0050. Wright State Kristallnacht Commemoration: w. survivor Samuel Heider. Tues., Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m. Student Union Room E163. For info., call Dr. Mark Verman, 775-2461.
Thanksgiving Salads, Sides, Desserts, & More Order by: Monday, November 13, 2017
Need Help with Holiday Cooking? SageCraft Catering & Events is Here to Help! See 2017 Holiday Menus on our Website
(937) 296-0600 | www.SageCraftCatering.com
JCC Early Childhood Share Shabbat & Silent Auction: Fri., Nov. 10, 9-10:30 a.m. Boonshoft CJCE, 525 Versailles Dr., Centerville. 610-1555.
Hanukkah Contemporary & Traditional Favorites
30th Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service: with Temple Beth Or, St. Charles Borromeo, David’s United Church of Christ & Christ United Methodist. Mon., Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m. at St Charles, 4500 Ackerman Blvd., Kettering.
Order by: Wednesday, December 6, 2017
Jewish Federation Giving Tuesday Volunteering: Tues., Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Boonshoft CJCE, 525 Versailles Dr., Centerville. 610-1550.
Endless Style.
Temple Israel Torah on Tap: Mon., Nov. 13, 5:30-6:30 p.m. W. Rabbi Bodney-Halasz at The Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave. First round on Temple Israel. PJ Grandparents, December Dilemma: Thurs., Nov. 30, 6 p.m. The Greene Community Room. Dairy Kosher dinner provided. R.S.V.P. to 610-1555.
Family
PJ Library & Hillel Academy Afternoon of Dreaming: Sun., Nov. 19, 3:30-5 p.m. At Hillel, 305 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood.
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
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PAGE 17
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RELIGION
KVELLING CORNER Attorney Jane Novick will receive the Lloyd O’Hara Public Interest Law Award at the Access to Justice Awards Dinner on Nov. 2 at Sinclair’s Ponitz Center. The event benefits Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Legal Aid of Western Ohio, and the Greater Dayton Volunteer Lawyers Project.
Zukowsky were selected for inclusion in the 2018 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. The attorneys received the honor based on reviews by their peers for their abilities, professionalism and integrity.
The Dayton Playhouse presented Blackburn Awards to Rachel Oprea for her lead role in The Women, and to Tamar Fishbein for her featured role in Xanadu. Blackburns are awarded to performers based Rachel on patron ballots. For Tamar’s Haug Gilbert next theatre endeavor, she and Jamie Pavlofsky have joined the production team of the JCC Children’s Theatre musical Rabbi Bernard Barsky, retired from Beth Abraham Synagogue, Tarzan. Tamar is choreographer and Jamie is assistant director was among the honorees for of the February show. the National Conference for Community and Justice’s 40th Oakwood High School Annual Friendship Dinner on Oct. 30. Rabbi Barsky is co-chair senior Jack Nicholaisen has completed his community of the Montgomery County service project toward his Eagle Justice Advisory Committee and serves on the Montgomery Scout status. He worked with Miami Township trustees and County Ex-Offender Reentry the township park supervisor Policy Board. to paint the picnic shelter at Omietanski Park. He Ross Novak, son of Linda supervised a crew of family and Novak and the late Michael friends on a Saturday afternoon Novak, has been appointed in September to complete the dean of students at Marywood project. Jack is a proud Boy University in Scranton, Pa. Scout with Troop 236. His Ross has been at Marywood parents are Craig Nicholaisen, since 2012, serving initially and Debbie and Norbert as director of housing and Klopsch. residence life, and as senior director of student conduct and residence life since 2014. Ross, wife Jennifer, and daughters Mia and Sascha live in Dunmore, Pa. Send your Kvelling items to: kvellingcorner@gmail.com Dinsmore & Shohl attorneys or to Rachel Haug Gilbert Richard A. Broock, Ralph E. The Dayton Jewish Observer Heyman, Edward M. Kress, 525 Versailles Dr., Lisa S. Pierce, and Philip A. Centerville, OH 45459
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Conservative mvt. doubles down on intermarriage ban, but urges communities to welcome couples
By Ben Sales, JTA NEW YORK — The Conservative movement will maintain its ban on rabbis performing interfaith marriages while seeking to welcome couples who are already intermarried, according to a letter signed by the movement’s four leaders. The letter, published in October and addressed to the centrist movement’s clergy, educators and leaders, follows a summer when a few prominent Conservative rabbis announced that they would begin officiating at intermarriages. It does not represent a change in the movement’s policy or practice of Jewish law. “We affirm the traditional practice of reserving rabbinic officiation to two Jews,” the letter reads, adding that the movement’s leaders “are equally adamant that our clergy and communities go out of their way to create multiple opportunities for deep and caring relationships between the couple and the rabbi, the couple and the community, all in the context of welcome and love that extends well before the moment of the wedding and well beyond it too.” The letter was written by Rabbi Bradley Artson, dean of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in Los Angeles, and co-signed by Arnold Eisen, the chancellor of the Jewish Theological Seminary; Rabbi Julie Schonfeld, CEO of the Conservative Rabbinical Seminary; and Rabbi Steven Wernick, CEO of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Since 2000, more than 70 percent of non-Orthodox Jews have married non-Jewish partners, according to the Pew Research Center’s 2013 study of American Jewry. The other major Jewish denominations in the United States are split on the issue: the
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
Reform movement allows intermarriage and the Orthodox prohibits it. Conservative Judaism aims to maintain fealty to traditional Jewish law while remaining relevant to the modern world. Its rabbis are prohibited from officiating at or attending intermarriages, but recently the movement has taken steps to welcome intermarried couples both before and after the wedding. This year, the movement’s synagogues voted to allow non-Jews as members. But several of the movement’s rabbis have begun officiating at intermarriages, arguing that the movement has not gone far enough in embracing the spouses of many young Jews. Last December, Rabbi Seymour Rosenbloom of Philadelphia was expelled from the Rabbinical Assembly umbrella group for performing intermarriages. In June, the Conservativeordained clergy at B’nai Jeshurun, an influential, nondenominational New York synagogue, announced that they would begin performing intermarriages. So did Rabbi Amichai LauLavie, who heads the experimental congregation Lab/Shul in New York. Conservative leaders responded at the time by reaffirming their opposition to intermarriage while pledging to respect and welcome intermarried couples. “We believe — and the data confirm — that by far the most effective path toward building a Jewish future is to strengthen Jewish identity, beginning with the Jewish family,” read a June statement from the Jewish Theological Seminary. “This is also the path which Torah and tradition command. JTS will in coming months expand our efforts to welcome all families, including those that are interfaith, to explore Judaism together with us.” The October letter echoes that language. “We all know that intermarriage is a loving choice people make in an open and accepting society,” Wernick told JTA. “As rabbis and leaders, we also have a commitment to Jewish law and Jewish marriage. How do we create a language that acknowledges both of these realities as well as a commitment to welcome those Jews and families to journey Jewishly on this path?”
RELIGION
CONGREGATIONS
The soul whisperer
Beth Abraham Synagogue Conservative Rabbi Joshua Ginsberg Cantor/Dir. of Ed. & Programming Andrea Raizen Monday through Friday 6:50 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Fri., 5:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. Sundays at 8:30 a.m. 305 Sugar Camp Circle, Oakwood. 293-9520. BethAbrahamDayton.org
from ours. It is not by holding in contempt those who have opinions opposing our own. It is certainly not by shoutperson will whisper — speak ing at them or worse, shouting By Rabbi Nochum Mangel with gentleness and delicacy. them down. Chabad of Greater Dayton Derocheha darchei noam vechol It is rather through commitWhen the young Rabbi nesivoseha sholom — Torah’s ting to soft, gentle, and peaceMoshe Feller first arrived in St. ways are pleasant, and all of its ful discourse. It is by learning Paul, Minn. as shliach (repreto communicate with respect sentative) of the Chabad move- paths are peaceful (Proverbs, 3:17).” and love, especially with those ment, he was invited to write Words of Torah whom we disagree. an article in the local Jewish must always be pleasAs we attempt newspaper. ing and peaceable. to influence others, He felt honored by the opTo be an effective we must be open to portunity, and wrote an article listen and to underabout the powerful effect Torah teacher of Torah, one must curb the urge to stand their views has on the Jewish soul. shout. and ideas as well. The Baal Shem Tov, We must show the founder of the true interest to Chasidic movement, learn from each Rabbi Feller used an analtaught that before you other and about ogy of an individual who lost can hope to improve each other. consciousness. Experience has As our sages shown, he wrote, that by shout- somebody spiritually, Rabbi Nochum Mangel you must first imteach in the Ething the person’s name in his prove his material and physical ics of Our Fathers, 4:1, “Who ear, he can be awakened and condition. is truly wise? One who learns revived. As Theodore Roosevelt once from every person.” So, too, he explained, a felsaid, “Nobody cares how much When we speak softly and low Jew may lose his or her you know, until they know with love, we create the space Jewish consciousness and feel how much you care.” and atmosphere necessary only faintly connected to his or First, you must express your for an exchange of true and her Divine root. kindness and concern for the meaningful thoughts and ideas The profundity and beauty individual as a to take place. of Jewish wisdom To be truly human being in a As that great genius Leonarmust then be concrete way. do daVinci said, “Where there shouted in this effective, a Only then can is shouting, there is no true person’s ear and wise person you expect your knowledge.” can awaken the words of spiritual The Rebbe’s one-word person and revive will whisper guidance and adchange became the catalyst for his or her spiritu— speak with vice to penetrate change in Rabbi Feller’s unality. However, begentleness and his heart and soul. derstanding, and through him, The Rebbe’s so much positive and loving fore Rabbi Feller message applies change in the Jewish world and sent his article to delicacy. today more than beyond. the newspaper, ever. How are we going to May we all learn from this he decided to send it first to mend a divided and polarized example to change the world the Rebbe, the leader of the nation? How can we restore with acts of love and kindChabad movement, for review. ness, whispering the reviving He wanted to be sure that he our trust and faith in each message of respect and love was representing and articulat- other’s humanity? It is definitely not by disthe Torah represents, until our ing Chasidic teaching properly missing those with whom we efforts are crowned with the and correctly. He knew how disagree. It is not by condemncoming of Moshiach (Messiah), important it was to make a ing those whose views differ speedily in our days. positive first impression on his new community. The Rebbe appreciated the article and made only one correction: he crossed out the word “shout” and in its place wrote “whisper.” What a difference one word makes. The Rebbe was saying that you cannot inspire others Torah by shouting. The volume of Portions your words is not what revives others and inspires positive November 4 change or growth. Vayera (Gen. 18:1-22:24) Yelling will not wake up Shabbat others from their apathy and Candle Lightings November 11 indifference. Chayei Sarah (Gen. 23:1-25:18) November 3, 6:14 p.m. On the contrary, “Divrei chachomim benachas nishmoyim November 18 November 10, 5:07 p.m. — Words spoken softly by the Toledot (Gen. 25:19-28:9) wise are better heard than the November 17, 5:01 p.m. foolish shout of a ruler (EcclesiNovember 25 astes, 9:17).” Vayetze (Gen. 28:10-32:3) November 24, 4:57 p.m. To be truly effective, a wise
Perspectives
November • Cheshvan/Kislev
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
Beth Jacob Congregation Traditional Rabbi In Residence Adam Rosenthal Saturdays 9:30 a.m., Sundays 8 a.m., Sunday through Friday, 7 p.m. 7020 N. Main St., Dayton. 274-2149. BethJacobCong.org Temple Anshe Emeth Reform Rabbinic Intern Taylor Poslosky Fri., Nov. 17, 7:30 p.m. 320 Caldwell St., Piqua. Call Eileen Litchfield, 937-5470092, elitchfield@woh.rr.com. Correspondence address: 3808 Beanblossom Rd., Greenville, OH 45331. ansheemeth.org Temple Beth Or Reform Rabbi Judy Chessin Educator/Rabbi Ari Ballaban Fridays 7 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. 5275 Marshall Rd., Wash. Twp. 435-3400. templebethor.com Temple Beth Sholom Reform Rabbi Haviva Horvitz See Web site for schedule. 610 Gladys Dr., Middletown. 513-422-8313. thetemplebethsholom.com Temple Israel Reform Senior Rabbi Karen Bodney-Halasz Rabbi/Educator Tina Sobo First Friday each month 6 p.m. All other Fridays, 6:30 p.m. Saturdays 10:30 a.m. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 496-0050. tidayton.org Temple Sholom Reform Rabbi Cary Kozberg Fridays 6 p.m. 2424 N. Limestone St., Springfield. 399-1231. templesholomoh.com
ADDITIONAL SERVICES Chabad of Greater Dayton Rabbi Nochum Mangel Associate Rabbi Shmuel Klatzkin Youth & Prog. Dir. Rabbi Levi Simon. Beginner educational service Saturdays 9 a.m. adults, 10 a.m children. Sundays 9 a.m. 2001 Far Hills Ave. 643-0770. www.chabaddayton.com Yellow Springs Havurah Independent Services 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 10-noon. Antioch College Rockford Chapel. Contact Cheryl Levine, 937-767-9293.
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Happy tummies, Shabbat dinner through Kiddush lunch Shabbat Dinner Chicken with Dried Fruit
Kiddush Lunch Pastrami Puff Pastry
By Elizabeth Kurtz The Nosher I have served this chicken for years, and it’s a go-to for a quick and easy Shabbat recipe. The chicken gets caramelized from the glossy and delicious sauce. It’s best when marinated overnight, so be sure to plan ahead and start it early. This recipe is excerpted from Celebrate: Food, Family, Shabbos, by Elizabeth Kurtz.
By Shannon Sarna The Nosher Are you a deli roll lover? You know deli roll — the beloved Jewish-American Preheat oven to 400 degrees. dish where various deli meats Line a baking sheet with and Russian dressing get all parchment paper or Silpat. wrapped up inside puff pastry In a small bowl mix together for a guilt-inducing Shabbat Kiddush dish. It’s almost like a mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, Worcestershire sauce and hot deli sandwich-knish hybrid. sauce. Add mustard if desired. I never grew up eating deli Remove each sheet of puff roll, but when I tried it at a friend’s house many years ago, pastry and place on work surface. Make slits in the bottom I simultaneously thought: This and the top. is so unhealthy, yet I just want more. And so it was just a matter of time before I worked on my own version. This pastrami strudel of the thigh, about one hour braid is just a tad fancier and 15 minutes. than your average deli Serve with pan juices and roll, with the sides cut dried fruit. and folded up to create a Note: This dish is perfect asbraid-like top. is for Passover. I brush the top with The chicken tastes best when egg wash and sprinkled Pastrami Puff Pastry marinated a minimum of four on some caraway seeds, hours and preferably overSpread thin layer of sauce but you could also add sesame night. on bottom. Top with a quarter seeds or poppy seeds (or nothCan be prepared two days R E S T A UingRatAall)NifTcaraway isn’t your pound of pastrami. Add one ahead of time. Store, covered, third cup sauerkraut. thing. in the refrigerator or freeze up place for Cut equal size and number to three months. The Defrostperfect in the 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed of strips along each side. Fold refrigerator. Rewarm, yourcovered, graduation party. strips up and across the filling, in the refrigerator for 2 in a warming drawer or 300Large party reservations welcome • Private forming a braid. Repeat with hours and then leftrooms at room degree oven. Serves eight. other piece of puff pastry. 5331 Far Hills Ave., temperature Centerville for 20 minutes Brush each strudel braid 1/2 lb. sliced pastrami (can Elizabeth Kurtz is the creator of (937) 434-4750 • www.MeadowlarkRestaurant.com with egg wash. Top with caraalso use corned beef or a the website gourmetkoshercooking. way seeds if desired. com. Bake for 24 to 27 minutes, until golden on top. Allow to hand-crafted cool. Can be reheated when pizzas and ready to serve. much more Yields two pastrami strudel braids.
1/2 cup orange juice 1 cup dried apricots, prunes, or a combination of any dried fruit 12 cloves garlic, minced 1/2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped (about 11/2 Tbsp.) 2 Tbsp. dried oregano 1 Tbsp. dried thyme 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 11/2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice 2 bay leaves 2 (3- to 4-lb.) chickens, cut into eight pieces 11/2 Tbsp. kosher salt 1/2 Tbsp. ground black pepper 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup white wine In a small bowl, pour orange juice over dried fruit and let soak to plump the fruit, about 10 minutes. In a separate small
Chicken With Dried Fruit
bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, oregano, thyme, vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and bay leaves. Place chickens in two roasting pans. Pour marinade equally over each chicken and massage into chicken. Add orange juice and fruit mixture equally to each roasting pan. Cover pans and marinate in the refrigerator for four hours or overnight. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper, and then drizzle equally with brown sugar and white wine. Bake until chicken is nicely browned on top and registers 165 degrees in the thickest part
meadowlark
combination) 2/3 cup sauerkraut, drained 1/2 cup mayonnaise 3 Tbsp. ketchup 1 Tbsp. relish dash Worcestershire sauce dash of hot sauce spicy brown mustard 1 egg, beaten caraway seeds (optional)
meadowlark
Shannon Sarna is the editor of The Nosher.
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
Arts&Culture
Marshall Weiss
At Wright State, Fiddler becomes a teaching tool, onstage and off on the Jewish community in the Pale of Russia, By Marshall Weiss, The Observer in the Ukraine,” McDowell says. It’s the first run-through for Act I, only three weeks He asked the Jewish cast members to share from opening, and members of the production team what they knew about their families before can’t help breaking up with laughter at the homespun summer break, but also to undertake additional quips that volley in front of them. “From such children come other children,” Yente the research. “The rest of the cast also did autobiographical matchmaker informs the long-suffering Golde, wife of work to find out what their roots were,” McTevye the dairyman and mother of five daughters. Dowell adds. “It was pretty profound, because At next week’s Act II run-through, the laughs are most of them found they were also immigrants fewer, the dialogue more bitter. Tevye tells Golde their at one point or another. A lot of these students’ daughter Chava “is dead to us. We will forget her.” families came over in the 19th century, the 18th Absolute silence in the rehearsal hall. century, and they had parallel stories, because Wright State University Theatre’s season enables everybody who came over was a minority when students to strengthen their crafts as performers and they came to this country.” artisans. And through the theatre’s affiliation with the McDowell said his aim was to raise their connational Ghostlight Project, this season, students are sciousness about the world refugee situation. learning to stand up for inclusion, participation, and “It’s bigger than any time in recent memory. This compassion — specifically as they explore the refugee is the theme of our story, the huge experience. WSU refugee problem of our lifetime.” For Wright State’s November producBeasley identified a direct ancestor tion of Fiddler on the Roof, the four Jewish who was in Belarus in 1905 durstudents in the cast found themselves in the Joshua Beasley as Tevye and Kayli Modell as Tzeitel rehearse a ing the pogroms, the same period roles of teachers as well. scene from Wright State’s Fiddler on the Roof depicted in Fiddler. “I’ve been waiting for this show for a “He came over to America,” Beasley ily resonate with the religion part of it, but I resonate very long time, and my family loves this says of his relative. “A lot of this story with hearing the prayers.” show and I’ve grown up with the music,” (Fiddler) is my story. And specifically for She says Birthright made her realize how much says Kayli Modell, a junior musical theatre this role, because I am Reform and this is she missed having Shabbat, “doing that every Friday major from Rockville, Md., who was cast as different than Reform Judaism, I looked night, just little things incorporated into my life as the the oldest daughter, Tzeitel. into more Orthodox practices and inteJew that I want to be now.” “I wanted to make sure everyone was grated them with my own understanding Kraus says she’s waiting to hear back from Birthas knowledgeable as possible to make sure Wright State Artistic and beliefs.” right to join its LGBTQ trip over winter break. that this show is authentic,” says Modell, Director Dr. Stuart When Mallory Kraus of Cincinnati was “Every time I put myself back in a Jewish space who describes her background as a blend McDowell directs Fiddler 8, she played the youngest of Tevye’s five and then back to the space where I am, I’m then again of Reform and Conservative Judaism. daughters at Loveland Stage Company. She grew up a a stranger,” Kraus says. “It always enlightens me, It occurred to her that when the musical number familiar face at Temple Sholom, Isaac M. Wise Temple, makes me feel like — no, Judaism is my place. That’s Sabbath Prayer comes in the show, cast members might and Rockdale. my little twinge. That’s what makes me different, and think of it as just a song. “And I remember even as an 8-year-old, the most I like that.” “But to Jewish people, it is every Friday night and visceral feeling in the world, especially Anatevka. I felt Beasley says he’s trying to get on an upcoming Saturday,” she says. “I invited anybody in the cast to in the world of my heritage and what that meant,” Birthright trip with Aaron Roitman of Louisville, who come with me twice at the beginning of the school says the junior acting major, who understudies Yenta. plays Motel in this production. year, and they came with me to the two Reform syna“It’s so interesting to see it coming to life now at At the beginning of his research on Fiddler, Beasgogues, Temple Israel and Temple Beth Or for Friday this age, and coming to terms with my Jewish identity, ley wanted to figure out what Judaism actually is, to night Shabbat services. A lot of them got to see the what Judaism means to me and to be living in this understand it for himself. Torah for the first time, which was really awesome, world,” Kraus says. “Judaism, to me, is not only a culOne source, a video, caught his attention. It’s conand we explained to them different customs, a little bit ture but a way of life. It’s morale, but it’s family. I can’t clusion: we are a family. about how to read the Siddur (prayer book).” describe what Judaism is, more than I can describe “I’ve been trying to incorporate into my work the Modell also brought the Shabbat experience to what it does. I feel like to be Jewish is a verb. The noun importance of community and family,” Wright State’s rehearsal. “I brought challah, some candlesticks, and a is the understanding it, but the verb is to Tevye says, “how the whole circle of our little village water bottle for the wine, and we said practice.” is a family that all works together — it’s very dysfuncthe three blessings, and I handed out ‘I’ve been trying She says she understands her Judaism tional — but it promotes an atmosphere of love.” papers that everyone could read.” to incorporate as that of the ancient Rabbi Hillel, who At present, the Jewish Jews of Wright State’s AnatJoshua Beasley, a junior acting explained it as, “What is hateful to you, evka note there’s little in the way of Jewish life on major from the Cincinnati suburb of into my work the campus outside of this production. do not do to your neighbor. That’s the Wyoming, plays the lead role of Teimportance of “I often feel like a stranger in a strange new land whole Torah. All the rest is commentary. vye in the production. As a freshman community and here, definitely,” Kraus says. Now go and study.” at Wyoming High School, he played “We don’t have a Hillel or Chabad,” Modell says. Modell, Beasley, and Kraus have all Lazar Wolfe the butcher. family,’ Wright “It’s not a small population, this school, but it is a been to Israel on teen trips sponsored by Beasley says that when he shared State’s Tevye says the Reform movement’s North American commuter school. People have asked me to start a Hilwith the Wright State cast how JudaFederation of Temple Youth. Beasley and lel, but I’m not the person to do that. But it’s definitely ism relates to his life, some were nice that I have somewhere to go for the High HoliKraus met on their trip and have been friends since. surprised to find out he is a Jew. Modell also joined a Birthright Israel trip last summer. days, and that’s what’s important to me, that I have “A lot of people just have not been exposed to it,” found Reform congregations in the area and places for “The last four years or so, I’ve kind of struggled Beasley says. me to go when I just need to dive into my culture.” with where I fit in with my Judaism, not really sure I Dr. Stuart McDowell, Wright State Theatre’s artistic believe in the religion itself or if I’m more culturally director and Fiddler’s director, says that about half of Wright State University Theatre presents Fiddler Jewish,” says Modell, who attended High Holy Days the cast were familiar with the show or had been in a on the Roof, Nov. 2-19 in the Creative Arts Center services at Temple Beth Or and the Jewish Cultural previous production. When he cast Fiddler last spring, Festival Playhouse. Tickets are $22 adults, $20 for Festival at Temple Israel. “I definitely resonate a lot homework came with each part. students and seniors, and are available by calling the box more with the culture and the history of my ances“They were sent home over the summer to do reoffice at 775-2500 or online at https://liberal-arts.wright. tors. When I go to temple, I don’t know if I necessarsearch on their characters, and to do in-depth research edu/theatre-dance-and-motion-pictures/box-office. THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
PAGE 21
CHANUKAH ACROSS the AGENCIES Community Chanukah Celebration Featuring PJ Library entertainer Joanie Leeds!
JFS Chanukah Brunch Partnering with Active Adults, Lynda A. Cohen Yiddish Club, Jewish War Veterans, & Hadassah
Sunday, December 10 @ 11AM at Beth Abraham Synagogue
(305 Sugar Camp Cir, 45409) Wednesday, December 13 5:30–7:30PM @ Boonshoft CJCE Hosted by the JCC & PJ Library, in partnership with Beth Abraham Synagogue, Beth Jacob Synagogue, Hillel Academy, Temple Beth Or, & Temple Israel IN ADVANCE (before Dec. 4): $10 adult | $7 child AFTER DECEMBER 4: $14 adult | $9 child Children 3 years or younger are free
Join us for our community-wide celebration as we gather together to celebrate the festival of lights! Enjoy a warm and cozy meal and traditional Jewish delights: latkes and sufganiyot! Bring your menorah to celebrate Hanukkah with the community!
Join your friends for a delicious brunch and musical entertainment from accordian player Dan Wolcott of the Route 161 Happy Wanderers. RSVP online at jewishdayton.org or to Karen at 610-1555 by December 1. Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Your payment is your reservation. Please bring a new children’s book, coloring book, and/ or crayons for children at area shelters.
RSVP @ 610-1555 OR jewishdayton.org
& PJ O U R W AY : A G E S 8 – 1 1
YA D : A G E S 2 1 – 3 5
Get the Ball Rolling
Teambuilding Chanukah Party
Kids ages 8-11 and their families are invited to “Get the Ball Rolling” with PJ Our Way! Join us for bowling and kosher pizza as we brainstorm activity ideas for PJ Our Way in 2018. PJ Our Way is all about kids taking the lead, and we want to hear from you-so come with your best ideas and let’s get rolling! RSVP @ 610-1555 OR jewishdayton.org
Come for a fun-filled evening where we will celebrate Chanukah, have dinner, and compete in a team building experience against each other. So bring on the competition as we challenge our opponent in order to bring home the trophy! RSVP to Cheryl Carne at ccarne@jfgd.net or online at www.jewishdayton.org. Sponsored by Shumsky.
Saturday, December 16 @ 6:30PM @ Capri Bowling Lanes (2727 S Dixie Dr, Kettering, OH 45409)
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Saturday, December 16 @ 7PM @ Scene 75 (6196 Poe Ave., 45414)
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
JEWISH FAMILY EDUCATION
Ritual Awakening Turning to Spirituality Series
The Jewish fall holiday season is notably filled with rituals. From sounding the shofar to eating round challahs and honey-dipped apples to building temporary outdoor shelters, each week offers a highly-choreographed multisensory experience. In fact, every season of the year is an opportunity for widely-varied rituals: lighting candles for Chanukah, planting trees for Tu B’Shevat, dressing
Candace R. Kwiatek up for Purim, and more. The weekly celebration of Shabbat and lifecycle events involve other sets of rituals, and Jewish prayer is yet another ritual category. Judaism is filled with rituals. Psychologist and author Serge Kahili King explains: ”A ritual is a well-defined sequence of words and actions designed to focus attention, establish significance, and achieve a beneficial result.” “Ritual is a language of symbols and gestures,” Rabbi David Wolpe elaborates. “Certain gestures are more powerful than words, express(ing) things words cannot fully express.” Rituals are designed to communicate difficult concepts and abstract ideas in ways that are meaningful for different levels of understanding, remove us
from the distractions of everyday life, and encourage us to rejoice in the moment. From Kabbalat Shabbat to sukkah to seder, rituals inspire questions that help us uncover patterns and meaning in the world while teaching Judaism’s core beliefs. “Rituals are openings for sacred encounters, for reaching toward others and toward God,” Wolpe tells us. The power of religious and secular ritual to inform and transform is well-documented in social science research. For the majority of American Jews, however, Jewish rituals simply are not a regular activity on the calendar. Only the Passover Seder and Chanukah celebrations join Yom Kippur in observance rates of 50 percent or greater, according to the Pew Research Center’s 2013 survey of U.S. Jews. The remaining holidays and holy days, including Shabbat, see less than a quarter of the Jewish population participating. Service attendance and kashrut observance reflect equally low numbers. This lack of ritual engagement is often rationalized as a modern outgrowth of the very nature of Judaism: an amalgam of ethnicity, culture, religious belief, and ritual observance. How most Americans define their Jewishness is now a patchwork of personal choices rather than a standardized group identity. Ritual reluctance is often
Literature to share Einstein and the Rabbi: Searching for the Soul by Naomi Levy. Levy’s story begins with the murder of her beloved father and, years later, the unexpected discovery of an inspirational Einstein quote. She then skillfully brings us into her own personal journey to explore how the soul and science interconnect, what the soul is, what it reflects about human purpose and connection, and how we can tune in to our own souls. Peppered with fascinating anecdotes about the life of Einstein, Levy’s book is bursting with stories, humor, wisdom, guidance, encouragement, and more — all of which are stepping stones to discovery of the transcendent in oneself and others. Dynamic and engaging. A Poem for Peter by Andrea Davis Pinkney. Ezra Jack Keats’ childhood classic The Snowy Day opened the world of children’s literature to ethnic diversity and urban settings while highlighting the universal qualities of childhood. Through the jazzy rhythms of performance poetry, A Poem for Peter tells the story of Keats and the magazine photo that inspired Peter in his groundbreaking book. Highly recommended for elementary ages and adults alike.
justified by the “antiquated and bizarre” nature of Jewish practices. Yet Jews have readily adopted quirky American rituals such as baby showers, tailgate parties, trick or treating, and Thanksgiving. If you stop to think about them, some are even downright weird. “We burn things and chant in unison at a child and call it a birthday party,” Savannah Marquardt humorously observes in her podcast series on rituals. “We wear ceremonial face paint and sacred garments and call it game day.” Jews’ lackluster attitude is often excused as the logical response to unfamiliar symbols or language, structured observance, outmoded motifs, difficult choreography, and meaningless rote. Even more, ritual requires time and is a lot of work. Clearly, Judaism needs a Great Ritual Awakening. Consider the following ideas when planning, producing or engaging in rituals.
Ritual Awakening
Serge King notes that a ritual must fulfill four requirements to be effective. Comprehensible and meaningful words and actions provide intellectual satisfaction. “If you have to ask ‘Why are we (they) doing this?’ the effect of the ritual is lost.” Emotional satisfaction arises
from sensorial engagement or personal connection. Imagine the difference between New Year’s Eve at Times Square and seeing photos of the event. A ritual needs to be distinct from other events, with a strong beginning and ending, while relating something significant. Without these four elements, the performance will be ineffective.
anthropologists to sport psychologists, have conclusively demonstrated that rituals can significantly impact people’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Because Jewish tradition, and the Torah in particular, stresses character development and personal growth, it would make sense that the numerous and recurring Jewish rituals all involve virtues — middot. Who could argue with rituals as self-improvement modules that raise awareness of the world and one’s responsibilities? Isn’t that a pathway to menschlichkeit (a person of integrity)? Many of today’s American Jews find themselves intellectually and spiritually uninspired by Judaism’s traditional rituals. But the Great Ritual Awakening doesn’t lie in the rituals themselves. It starts with the participants. Explore — try a new ritual each year, or learn more to share with others. Ask questions and participate, or share your enthusiasm and experiences. Discover your own personal ways to engage in each new ritual through mind, body, and spirit. Develop your character through the values woven throughout Jewish rituals. Be part of the Great Ritual Awakening.
Discovery Awakening
Creating personal theological or cultural meaning involves the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. A great discovery technique to teach to children as well, suggested by Jerome Berryman in Teaching Godly Play: How to Mentor the Spiritual Development of Children, is to try variations of these “wonderings” during any ritual (including prayer) that’s taking place. “I wonder what color (substitute emotion, value, sense, tune) this ritual is?” “I wonder how the color makes you feel?” “I wonder why this color is the most important?” “I wonder how many places you can find this color throughout the ritual/in this location?” “I wonder who put the color there?” “I wonder where else this color would appear in a ritual?”
Character Awakening
Behavioral scientists, from
Active Adults Dine Around Wednesday, November 15
5:30PM @ Thai 9 (11 Brown St., 45402) Join us before the JCC’s Cultural Arts and Book Festival event featuring author Glenn Frankel. Cost on your own.
High Noon with author GLENN FRANKEL 7:15PM @ The Neon (130 East 5th Street, 45402)
Watch the western classic High Noon. After the film Glenn Frankel enlightens us with how Foreman’s concept of High Noon evolved from idea to first draft to final script, becoming a parable about the Red Scare. $9.
RSVP for dinner and buy your CABF tickets at jewishdayton.org or 937-610-1555 Jewish Family Services by November 7. JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES of GREATER DAYTON
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
PAGE 23
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OBITUARIES William Paul Gronefeld, “Bill” to all who knew him, age 74, died Oct. 12. He was born May 28, 1943 in Covington, Ky. to Paul and Mary Gronefeld. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Regina. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Barb; son, Eric; daughter, Heidi and son-in-law, George; and grandchildren, William, Christopher, Eva, and Emma, all of whom he loved dearly. Mr. Gronefeld is also survived by sisters Anne, Peggy, Carole and husband Don, Christy and husband Mark; along with sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law “Ketch” and Roger, Dave and Mary, Mary Jo and Dave; and many
special nieces and nephews. Mr. Gronefeld graduated from Thomas More College and then served in the U.S. Army. He worked at Mead for more than 35 years. Mr. Gronefeld enjoyed retirement, spending more time with family and friends, and was very involved at Temple Israel, coordinating the brunch series lectures for many years. He volunteered for many groups and committees, and was a past president of the Interfaith Forum of Greater Dayton. He loved to write and was a very avid reader. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. The family asks for donations to Temple Israel or the charity of your choice.
Fran Timmins (Frances Lieblich) Oct. 3, 1929 - Oct. 21, 2017, will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was born in Reading, Pa. and lived in Dayton, Naples, Fla., and Sarasota, Fla. Mrs. Timmins graduated from Fairview High School and Miami Jacobs Junior College. After graduation, she worked for the Montgomery County Juvenile Court System. On Sept. 17, 1949, she married Arthur Timmins and they worked together for many years to develop and manage the family business, American Building Services. In Dayton, Mrs. Timmins was active in the PTA at Shoup Mill School, the Opti-Mrs. Club, and the sisterhood at Beth Abraham Synagogue. In later years, she and her husband were members
of Temple Israel. Her spare time was filled with tennis, mah jongg, and yoga. Mrs. Timmins is preceded in death by her parents, Minnie and Charles Lieblich; her brother, Milton Lieblich (wife Janet still living in Cleveland); and son, Jeffrey Charles Timmins. Mrs. Timmins is survived by her husband, Arthur Timmins of Sarasota; her daughters, Marla Harlan (husband Stephen) of Dayton, Cheryl Timmins of New Orleans; and grandchildren, Seth Harlan (wife Paula) of Fort Collins, Colo., Chad Harlan of New York, and Nola Timmins of New Orleans. Interment was at Temple Beth Shalom Cemetery in Sarasota. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Florida Gulf Coast.
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popular support.” While El Kurd went on to argue that this would lead to more popular discontent and capitulation, including crippling violence, Israel would likely However, if fully impleelectricity cuts. mented, reconciliation could welcome this development. At the same time, reconciliaalso bring benefits for Israel. Even if Israel would prefer to tion just might force Hamas to It would address what many see Palestinian reconciliation fail moderate. According to a report on its merits, the government observers have warned is a in Haaretz, the group agreed looming humanitarian crisis in has diplomatic reasons to acnot to carry out terror attacks Gaza that could push Hamas commodate the process. Among or fire rockets against Israel as into another war with Israel. the world leaders celebrating Egypt, which is brokering the part of the deal. Dana El Kurd, the deal are two of Israel's most talks between Fatah and Hamas, a researcher at the Arab Center important strategic partners, would likely ease its blockade of for Research and Policy Studies, Egypt and the United States. Gaza, allowing more goods and wrote in Foreign Affairs that the Under Egyptian President people to move in and out of the international backers of recAbel Fattah-el Sisi, Jerusalem onciliation seek to “neutralize territory. P.A. President Mahand Cairo have cooperated moud Abbas would have to end Hamas’ power by weakening its closely in recent years on shared regional security concerns, including Hamas. At the U.N. General Assembly in September in New York, Sisi coupled his first-ever meeting with Netanyahu with a call for Palestinian Dennis Kahn & Linda Ohlmann Kahn Current Angels unity as a step toward peace Joyce Kardon Ken Baker, K.W. Baker & Assoc. Susan & Stanley Katz George & Ruth Barnett & Family with Israel. By opposing Sisi on Mr. Joseph Litvin Anita Barrett reconciliation, Israel could put Perry Lubens Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Bettman this progress at risk. Dr. David & Joan Marcus Amy & Michael Bloom When it comes to the United Carole & Donald Marger John Bloom States, which has also thrown Irvin & Gayle Moscowitz Hy & Sylvia Blum Bobbie & Jack Myers Buck Run Commercial Doors & its weight behind reconciliaRon & Sue Nelson Hardware Inc. tion, Netanyahu has gone out Myrna Nelson Larry & Cindy Burick of his way to ensure no daylight Sis & Phil Office Betty & Don Chernick comes between him and PresiHelene Perez Mrs. Melvin Crouse Richard & Roberta Prigozen Dr. & Mrs. Scot Denmark dent Donald Trump. John & Sharyn Reger Tara & Adam Feiner The prime minister reportRuss Remick Lynn Foster edly warned top ministers in Cherie Rosenstein MJ & Bella Freeman February against confronting Felice & Michael Shane Dr. Eric Friedland Trump, explaining that the Dr. & Mrs. Joel Tobiansky Drs. Felix & Erika Garfunkel David Verson Rabbi Joshua Ginsberg & president’s personality must be Julie & Adam Waldman & Family Hazzan Jenna Greenberg taken “into account.” Kathleen Wassenich Kim & Shelley Goldenberg In many ways, the Trump Judith & Fred Weber Judi & George Grampp administration has rewarded Hyla & Ray Weiskind Art & Joan Greenfield Michael & Karen Weprin Susan & Joe Gruenberg Netanyahu. Washington reportDr. Judith Woll & Ron Bernard Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Harlan edly has asked Israel to limit Bea Harris settlement expansion, and setRobert & Vicky Heuman tler leaders have complained of Sylvia & Ralph Heyman Thank you for your slower-than-promised building Mr. & Mrs. Steven Horenstein Steve and Rachel Jacobs generous support. in the West Bank and eastern Michael Jaffe Jerusalem.
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THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
A cautionary tale of McCarthyism, on film By Marc Katz Special To The Observer To most of us, the 1952 Gary Cooper/Grace Kelly film High Noon is a classic Western about nothing more than an ex-convict threatening the sheriff who put him in jail. It was much more than that, as Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Glenn Frankel points out; it not only serves as an allegory for the congressional hearings of the House UnAmerican Activities Committee, it has a strong resemblance to what’s happening in our federal and local governments today. Frankel, author of High Noon: The Hollywood Blacklist And The Making Of An American Classic, will lead a screening of High Noon followed by a talk at The Neon on Nov. 15 as part of the JCC Cultural Arts & Book Fest. In a telephone interview while on his book tour, Frankel said the film — co-written by Carl Foreman, who was called before HUAC as he worked on the screenplay — is a parable of how Hollywood became involved in Sen. Joe McCarthy’s “red scare” hearings, leading several in the U.S. film industry to become blacklisted. Behind HUAC’s machina-
tions was attorney Roy Cohn, who not only advised McCarthy during the hearings, but later, pre-President Donald Trump. “He (Trump) certainly learned from that guy (Cohn),” Frankel said. “He mentors (Trump’s) view of the world: it’s a bad place, everyone’s out to get you, (and) you have the tools and weapons to get them first. Somebody punches you, you take out a gun and shoot them. You escalate, go to Glenn Frankel court, sue. Federal government’s investigating? You sue them. That kind of bully boy tactics. “Trump was certainly ripe for that. Roy Cohn actually showed him the way to do it. You get a guy who doesn’t pay his bills, who can justify any act, because you can get away with it.” The JCC’s Cultural Arts & Book Fest presents author Glenn Frankel and a screening of High Noon at 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at The Neon, 130 E. 5th St., Dayton. Tickets are $9 and are available at jewishdayton.org, by calling 610-1555, or at the door.
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In Foreman’s hearing, he admitted he had previously joined the Communist Party but didn’t stay; he would not name others. Afterward, he was unemployable domestically and moved to London, writing under pseudonyms. His name was even struck from High Noon’s credits. Frankel, a Rochester, N.Y. native, graduated from Columbia University, worked his way to the Washington Post in 1979, and eventually became the Post’s bureau chief in South Africa, Jerusalem and London (twice). He was awarded his Pulitzer Prize for international reporting on Israel and the Middle East. He later became editor of the Washington Post Magazine. The New York Times bestselling author has taught journalism at Stanford and the University of Texas. What made the Hollywood blacklist especially bitter, Frankel explained, was the fracturing of friendships. “A number of
Eve Williams-Jones/Writers Guild Foundation
Screenwriter Carl Foreman at HUAC’s Sept. 24, 1951 public hearing
them simply never worked again,” Frankel said. “The blacklist lasted longer than expected and did more damage. Those are the wounds that do not heal — when your business partner names you, or one of your best friends. Just about all of them have passed away now, but among their children, they’re raw and can’t be healed.” Frankel said the 1950s were not as serene as we like to remember them. “It’s supposed to be an era of social rest. The ‘50s were a time of great ten-
sions and anxieties. Every era in American history is a complicated and turbulent time. In a democracy, you constantly revisit the past. The past is not over. It isn’t even the past.” He described the McCarthy era as a time when a growing number of Americans said they were disenfranchised and wanted to get their country back. “In those days, it was (from) the communists, Jews and liberals. Today, it is the Islamic terrorists, undocumented immigrants, the new neo-populist community, Muslims and the LGBT community, anyone who doesn’t share a certain identity.”
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COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
HOW TO ORDER: BY PHONE: (937) 610-1555 ONLINE: jewishdayton.org
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IN PERSON: Boonshoft CJCE 525 Versailles Drive Centerville AT EVENT: Evening of Event
HOTEL SPONSOR Wright Memorial Public Library
OCT 30 NOV 1 NOV 2 NOV 8
NOV 15 NOV 16 DEC 5 DEC 7 PAGE 26
Einstein & The Rabbi with author RABBI NAOMI LEVY 7PM @ Boonshoft CJCE When Rabbi Naomi Levy came across this poignant letter by Einstein it shook her to her core. Levy wondered what had elicited such spiritual wisdom from a man of science? Newsweek has named Rabbi Naomi Levy as one of the top 50 rabbis in America.
$5 in advance | $8 at the door
The Light We Lost with author JILL SANTOPOLO 6:30PM @ Coco’s Bistro (250 Warren St., Dayton) A devastatingly romantic debut novel about the enduring power of first love, with a shocking, unforgettable ending. Recently named by TheSkimm as a SkimmReads pick, and hailed as an “elegant novel” by the New York Post. $30 includes choice of fish or vegetarian dinner plus gratuity (drinks/dessert additional)
RSVP and paymen required t by Tuesday, 31. Strictl October y meal is a kosher v upon adv ailable anc request. ed
The Light We Lost Q & A with author JILL SANTOPOLO 10AM @ Centerville Library (111 W. Spring Valley Rd., Centerville)
No Charge. Please register in advance at www.wclibrary.info SPONSORS: WASHINGTON-CENTERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY AND FRIENDS OF WCPL
The Hard Road of Dreams with local Holocaust survivor ROBERT KAHN 7PM @ Stivers School for the Arts (1313 East 5th Street, Dayton) Born under the influence of Nazi Germany, Dayton native Robert Kahn’s emotional journey plunges the reader through shifting shades of darkness and his eventual escape. After Robert discusses his memoir, the Stivers orchestra will perform. NO CHARGE. Partnering with: Jewish Family Services and JFGD’s Holocaust Education Committee
High Noon with author GLENN FRANKEL 7:15PM @ The Neon (130 East 5th Street, Dayton) Nosh with us before watching High Noon. After the film Glenn Frankel enlightens us with how Foreman’s concept of High Noon evolved from idea to first draft to final script, becoming a parable about the Red Scare. $9.
Extreme Measures with author DR. JESSICA NUTIK ZITTER 7PM @ Boonshoft CJCE In Extreme Measures, Dr. Zitter spotlights our collective pandemic of ignoring death—doctors and patients alike—and how it inflicts tremendous and unnecessary suffering upon our loved ones for whom the end is near.
$5 in advance | $8 at the door SPONSOR: OHIO’S HOSPICE OF DAYTON
A Gastroenterologist’s Guide to Gut Health with author DR. DAVID NOVICK 7PM @ Boonshoft CJCE Writing in a clear, conversational, and, yes, easily digestible style, Dr. Novick reviews the common G.I. disorders, from irritable bowel syndrome to colon cancer, and from hepatitis C to hemorrhoids. $5 in advance | $8 at the door
Partnering with: Jewish Family Services
My Jewish Year with author ABIGAIL POGREBIN 6:30PM @ Boonshoft CJCE Journalist Abigail Pogrebin made it her mission to research, observe, and write about every Jewish holiday on the calendar—without skipping one festival or fast. My Jewish Year chronicles what she learned and how it changed her. $5 in advance | $8 at the door
Partnering with: PJ Library
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
Achieving a good death By Michele Alperin Special To The Observer There are good deaths and bad deaths. Often the bad ones happen when the family or the patient refuses to accept that death is near, no matter how many medical procedures doctors try. Giving up is hard, even if the alternative is increased pain and discomfort, with little quality of life. In her new book, Extreme Measures: Finding a Better Path to the End of Life, Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter shares her own path from an ICU doctor who used every technology available, to a physician willing to speak about the imminence of death with patients and family, and offering palliative care instead of technological intervention. Zitter practices critical and palliative care medicine at Highland Hospital in Oakland, Calif. In a telephone interview, she shared experiences with her own family — one in which she couldn’t successfully intervene, with her husband’s Uncle Barry; the other, in which she was able to guide her father-in-law toward a more humanized death. Uncle Barry was a smart, tough guy who had parachuted behind enemy lines in World War II and later graduated from Harvard Law School. But this “empowered and strong person” also had an “incredible and abiding faith in doctors.” As he grew fragile, Zitter said, “I tried many times to talk with him about his preference and life-prolonging preferences… but he just wouldn’t engage.” As a result, Zitter said, he had a terrible death — intubation, breathing machines, and cardiac arrest that reduced brain function. And his doctors were still considering a heart catheterization. “We were on this conveyor belt that keeps him alive at all costs because of words he said, and that made it a horrible experience to everybody,” she said. With her father-in-law — who had developed leukemia in his late 70s — shuttling back and forth for chemotherapy and getting progressively weaker, things went differently. When Zitter arrived one day at her in-laws’ house and saw an ambulance in front, she told her mother-in-law: The JCC’s Cultural Arts & Book Fest presents Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16 at the Boonshoft CJCE, 525 Versailles Dr., Centerville. Tickets are $5 in advance, $8 at the door and are available at jewishdayton.org, by calling 610-1555, or the evening of the event.
Beth Abraham, Dayton’s only Conservative synagogue, is enthusiastically egalitarian and is affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. For a complete schedule of our events and times, go to bethabrahamdayton.org. Beth Abraham is Dayton’s only Conservative synagogue, affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. We are an enthusiastically egalitarian synagogue.
Sunday, Dec. 3, noon
We also have an energetic Keruv program that reaches out to intermarried couples and families in our synagogue and in the Dayton Jewish community.
Honoring Bonnie & Walter Rice For a complete schedule of our events, go to bethabrahamdayton.org.
Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter
“He is so debilitated, if he goes into the hospital, he will get intubated and be attached to a breathing machine until he dies.” Her mother-in-law said, “There’s no way that we’re willing to take that risk.” The result was two weeks of home hospice, with family around him, singing and holding his hands. Zitter said he died with a smile on his face. In Zitter’s view, medical education and training can create a culture of false confidence and relentless pursuit of the next procedure that gets in the way of achieving a good death. “Even if you don’t know everything, you are supposed to act as if you do. You get the sense that is what the patient wants from you,” she said. The result is “moving forward in a businesslike way that feels like confidence,” with the result that “you can miss the patient and miss the humanity and miss the opportunity to be open and reflective and collaborative.” The antidote she prescribes is humility. Another issue, she said, is that doctors don’t learn how to break bad news. This means the doctor “is flying without radar,” without all necessary information about the patient’s desires, which leads to “doing patients a great injustice.” Zitter became a doctor in part due to the reverence in which doctors are held in the Jewish tradition, which includes images of God as a healer and the Talmudic teaching that if you save one life, you save the whole world. But despite the Jewish belief that we do death well, Zitter said that we don’t. “We do after-death well,” she said. “We are not good at dying. We don’t actually do the preparations, for example, the way the Buddhist community does; preparing for it, not seeing it as a failure.”
For their countless contributions that have benefited Beth Abraham as well as the Jewish and Greater Dayton communities.
Luncheon $60 per person • R.S.V.P. by Nov. 13 For more information or to place an ad or tribute in our event program, please call us at 293-9520.
Sunday Brunch Speaker Series 10 a.m. • $7 • R.S.V.P. to 293-9520 Nov. 5: Marc Katz, The Baseball Draft And How It Affects The Reds. Nov. 12: Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Paul Cooper, A Veteran’s Tour In The Desert. In conjunction with Temple Israel, at Beth Abraham. Nov. 19: Karin Hirschkatz & Judy Woll, The Education of Mariato Ko: Teaching English To Speakers Of Other Languages. Service Schedule: Mon.-Fri., 6:50 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Sunday, 8:30 a.m. Kabbalat Shabbat, Fri., 5:30 p.m. Sat. Morning Service, 9 a.m.; Youth Service, 10:30 a.m.; Kiddush lunch following.
THE DAYTON JEWISH OBSERVER • NOVEMBER 2017
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Happy Thanksgiving!
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