Jewish Journal - January/February 2023

Published by Buffalo Jewish Federation

338 Harris Hill Rd., Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221 716-463-5050 www.buffalojewishfederation.org

Editor

As we move into a new calendar year - 2023 - the days are beginning to grow a bit longer, offering the glimpse of spring down the road. Yes, it’s still winter, but we are seeing the light, and, I believe, sharing the light. I am very happy to say that this double issue of The Jewish Journal is brimming with hope, vitality, community and light. With the pandemic behind us, we have made it through a long and sometimes difficult journey, and we are another step closer to spring, renewal, and light.

Here’s what’s inside: Hear from the new Buffalo Jewish Federation President Margie Bryen on page 3 and read her vision for Jewish Buffalo. Learn about the awesome cover story journey to Israel with an enviable group of diverse partners and allies (see page 4). Read about staffing changes at Federation on page 5, while getting a small taste of the energy shared by the professionals throughout this issue. You can even start learning about Sokolivka, a vanished shtetel in Ukraine which was an ancestral home of many Jewish Buffalonians, including my family. The Jewish Buffalo History Center Director Chana Kotzin will be creating an online exhibition in the spring (see page 21).

February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM) and we celebrate it with encouragement from Janet Gunner (see page 6). And Tu B’Shevat also takes place February 7. Environmentalist Sara Schultz offers us 5 ways to Change the World (see page 31) by participating in ecological changes and mindfulness with regards to our environment for the holiday.

Super Sunday is BAAACK February 26 (see page 17)! And it’s better than ever. You can combine a morning of fun with friends at the JCC in Getzville and make a huge difference in the welfare of our community by participating in several different ways.

Finally, you might notice that our Jewish Journal logo on the front cover is updated and the Federation logo is refreshed, thanks to Chief Creative Officer Jill Komm. Lastly (yet not the “last” word), let Karen and Howard Wiseman inspire you (see pages 36-37) with their recent volunteer work in Israel at an Army Base, showing us how Jewish Buffalo keeps making the world a little bit better all the time. Stay well and keep smiling. We’ll see you for the next issue in March!

Some of the members of the JCRC Civic Leaders Trip to Israel gathered at Bloom & Rose Catering to enjoy Israeli food, meet each other and discuss details about their upcoming adventure together. Photo by Ellen Goldstein.

PRODUCED BY 3 Message from the New Federation President PJ Library/ PJOW Hanukkah Highlights 4 JCRC Civic Leaders Israel Trip Circle of Care resettles Jewish Ukrainian Family in Buffalo

Federation People Plan includes New Leadership Positions 6 LiNK: Inclusion and Belonging Are Our Daily Pursuit for a Flourishing Community By Janet Gunner 7 LiNK: Addressing Antisemitism and Ensuring Joyous Judaism By Mike Steklof, Ed.D. 8 Margie Bryen elected Federation’s 53rd President

Rabbi’s Column: Rabbi Sara Rich 10-11 Making an Impact: 2023 Buffalo Lions Roar in Phoenix 12 Buffalo’s African American Veterans Monument By Rachel Beerman 13 JCRC: PPG Community Agenda Vote & Security Webinar for Partners 14 2023 Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies Officers and Board 15 LIFE & LEGACY®: Reflections 16 Holocaust Survivor Ruth Lansing Celebrates 104 Years! By Vilona Trachtenberg 17 Super Sunday is February 26! 18 Buffalo Jewish Day of Learning March 12 Momentum Israel Trip in October 20 JFS Lighting the Path into 2023 21 Jewish Buffalo History Center: Sokolivka By Chana Revell Kotzin, Ph.D 22 P2G

What’s Happening at CRS By Einav Symons 25 CSS: More than Life Cycle Events KOT Spotlight: Ron Cohen 28-29 Special Advertising Section: To Your Health 30 Special Advertising Section: Dining Guide 31 5 Things You Can Do in January & February to Repair the World Where in Jewish BFLO? 32-33 Organizations & Synagogues Listings 34-35 In Remembrance: Helen Cooper Ablove 36-37 Not the Last Word: Volunteer for Israel! By Karen & Howard Wiseman

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Journey to Israel in February

Ellen Goldstein,

CEO/Executive Director Rob Goldberg President Margie Bryen Editor Ellen S. Goldstein

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Message from Federation’s New President

BY MARGIE BRYEN

This past month at the combined Annual Meeting of the Buffalo Jewish Federation and the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, I was voted in as the 53rd President of the Buffalo Jewish Federation. I wanted to share my reflections that provide a bit of background on my engagement in Jewish Buffalo and what my hopes are for Federation in 2023 and beyond.

Thank you for supporting me as the next President of the Buffalo Jewish Federation. I am honored and humbled to step into shoes worn by so many great leaders over the years. First and foremost, I’d like to thank Shelly Yellen for his strong and steady leadership over the past two years as we navigated our way through the pandemic. We presented Shelly with a gift, prior to this meeting, to show our appreciation for his leadership: a signed and numbered print from Gregory Kohelet entitled “Jerusalem.”

As an organization and a community, we have so much to be proud of: from welcoming new refugees to Western New York, to another transformative Buffalo Israel Experience (BIE) trip for more than fifty community members. From beautifying our cemeteries, to the integration and growth of Holocaust Resource Center (HRC), to ongoing new programming within LiNK and so much more. I’m pleased that we are continuing this new tradition of combining the annual meetings of the Foundation and Federation into one event. We are fortunate in this community to see the value of Better Together

For those who don’t know my story, I grew up in Williamsville, attending Temple Beth El, participating in United Synagogue Youth (USY) and BBYO and watching my parents Lenore and Bill Godin, z”l, play various leadership roles in the Buffalo community. I moved away for college and grad school and ended up raising a family with my husband Eric, and building a career in the Detroit/Ann Arbor area. Fast forward 30 years and I found myself back in Buffalo to help my dad, and to manage his hospital crib manufacturing business, Hard Manufacturing. That was at the end of 2013. I made a second home here, took over the business and my father’s care, and began a wonderful 9 years, thanks in large part to the Buffalo Jewish Federation. Today I am the president/owner of the business on the East Side of Buffalo, making critical care cribs for hospitals in the U.S. and across the world.

Leslie Shuman Kramer, z”l, was a childhood friend, and immediately drew me back into the Federation orbit once my father passed away. I was president of Hillel and ran the campus UJA campaign while at Duke University (with thanks to Judy Kantor, the former Campaign Director of Federation who encouraged me to take on this role), but hadn’t been actively involved in Jewish communal life since moving to Detroit. I didn’t realize how much I missed it until I got back engaged here in Buffalo.

I was fortunate, in 2017, to establish and lead the Federation’s Made in Buffalo (MIB) speaker series in honor of my parents. Made in Buffalo showcases interesting and successful individuals that originally “cut their teeth” in Buffalo. We have had tremendous response for the three events thus far: Seth Godin (who initiated the series), Cheryl Stern and Gary Ginsberg. We’ve just begun planning the next MIB event now – stay tuned for more information on that to come.

I participated in the first Buffalo Israel Experience in 2018 and it renewed my connection with Israel, built new

friendships, and made me even more interested in supporting the great work that Federation does.

I have been on the Board of Governors for the past several years and served as a Vice President (under Leslie Shuman Kramer) and Treasurer (under Shelly Yellen). I helped transition our allocation process to a partner grant system working closely with the agencies that receive funding through our campaign. But I guess my claim to fame thus far is making financial reports interesting and understandable to my fellow Board members! As president I plan to build upon the great work done by Federation staff and volunteer leaders to date, positioning us as leaders in

Buffalo, with Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and with our partners abroad.

We look forward this year to more immersive experiences, including trips to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and to Israel, including one for Civic Leaders spearheaded by our Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) which you can read about on page 4, and a conference focused on antisemitism. In addition, we will have a strong focus on educational programs for all ages through both LiNK and Holocaust Resource Center, as well as with several of our community partners. We’ll partner closely with the community to ensure the impact areas we focus on are consistent with the needs of Jewish Buffalo. And finally, my focus will be on leadership development of Federation’s extraordinary leaders – both professional and volunteer - to ensure that the organization maintains its strength for years to come.

The Federation leadership team is already busy working on several exciting programs for 2023 and beyond. I want to thank the exceptional volunteer and staff leaders, in advance, for their help and support as we embark on great things to come for Jewish Buffalo.

Get Your Hanukkah On!

Here are scenes capturing the spirit of LiNK Jewish Buffalo’s annual Hanukkah Gathering for families with young children on December 11. Get Your Hanukkah On welcomed over 450 people including many friends of other faiths who were a part of an effort to shine a light on antisemitism through relationships and understanding. New families were welcomed (including the Jewish Ukrainian family who recently settled in Buffalo) and dozens of connections were facilitated. For more information on LiNK’s family programming, contact Robin Kurss (robin@ buffalojewishfederation.org.)

Margie Bryen with Shelly Yellen, immediate past president

JCRC Civic Leader Trip to Israel this February

The sights, sounds and tastes of Middle Eastern food were in full “bloom” last month, not in Tel Aviv, but on Buffalo’s West Side. Participants in the upcoming Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) Civic Leader Trip to Israel gathered at Bloom & Rose Catering to get to know each other, meet the tour operator Ezra Korman and prepare their taste buds. Zach Rosenbaum and J.B. Pagels taught the group how to make pita, babaganoush and baklava.

This critical relationship-building trip was rescheduled from Feb 2021, when COVID-19 changed the world’s plans. A planning committee was formed to recruit a diverse group of Buffalo and Western NY civic leaders from several sectors: legislative, business, education, foundation, non-profit and arts. “It is important that civic leaders experience this immersive trip together, and they come home to continue their work at building and rebuilding Buffalo. We hope they pour back into our region the wealth of knowledge and richness of our cultural experience we gain in Israel,” said Rene Petties-Jones, President of the National Federation of Just Communities of WNY and member of the planning committee.

Participants will have an opportunity to meet with their counterparts in Israel, visit religious sites, people to people organizations, schools and talk with Jews, Muslims, Christians, and members of the Druze community.

“JCRC’s goal is always about strengthening relationships with all communities where we live, and this experience helps address antisemitism and build a more civil and caring community for everyone,” said Deborah Goldman, a member of the trip planning committee and co-chair of the JCRC.

During the initial planning for the trip, the racist shooting on May 14 occurred. Out of respect for the Black community, planning paused; participants felt it was important to acknowledge the tragedy and continue with the trip. “These civic leaders will need to rely on each other even more as they return from the trip and face the first anniversary of the shooting,” remarked Mara Koven-Gelman, Senior Director of JCRC. “Israel shows pluralism at its best and demonstrates there is complexity and challenges.

This can be an excellent learning opportunity for civic leaders.”

PLANNING COMMITTEE

• Thomas Beauford Jr., President and CEO, Buffalo Urban League

• Sister Margaret Carney, Former President, St. Bonaventure University

• Deborah Goldman, JCRC-co chair

• Rene Petties Jones, President, NFJC WNY

PARTICIPANTS

• Stephen Tucker, CEO, Northland Workforce

• Christina Orsi, CEO, John R. Oishei Foundation

• Molly Carr, CEO, Jewish Family Services of WNY

Circle of Care team resettles first

Jewish Ukrainian family in Buffalo

In December, the Holocaust Resource Center’s (HRC) Circle of Care team, working in partnership with Jewish Family Services of WNY and with support from the Buffalo Jewish Federation, welcomed the first Jewish Ukrainian refugee family to Buffalo. The family of 8, including the grandmother, mother, father and 5 children ages 3 to 15 years old, arrived with almost nothing, making our community’s effort an opportunity to show that Buffalo, which has a history of welcoming immigrants with open arms, is truly the City of Good Neighbors.

The Circle of Care team includes members of the HRC Descendants group and is led by Judge Lisa Bloch Rodwin, Wendy Weisbrot and Heidi Yellen. The group includes Ann Marie Carosella, Marnie Cerrato, Andy Feldman, Brenda Feldstein, Brenda Fox, Ashirah Lazarus-Klein, Monica Neuwirt, Ken Rogers, Brenda Rosen, Maxine Seller, Deborah Shiffner, Marilyn Toth, and Sephra

Volunteers and staff waiting to greet the family

Vigna, and is supported by HRC staff members Lauren Bloomberg and Mandy Weiss.

Each member of the Circle of Care team took the opportunity to reflect back on his or her own family’s history of arriving in America: all of whom are in America because of the courage and fortitude of parents, grandparents or great-grandparents. With this in mind, the tireless team of volunteers raised money, collected donations of furniture, household appliances, bedding, clothes, toys and more, welcomed the family at the airport, visited them during their lengthy hotel stay, and have been helping to search for their new

• Thomas Kim, Director, CAO

• Hon. Karen McMahon, Assemblymember New York State

• Hon. David Rivera, City Councilor, City of Buffalo

• Dr. Darren Brown-Hall, Superintendent, Williamsville Central School District

• Eunice Lewin, SUNY Trustee, SUNY

• Rev. Todd E. Leach, Pastor, Westminster Presbyterian Church

• Rabbi Adam Scheldt, Director of Spiritual Care, Hospice Buffalo

• Timothy Sember, VP of Mission, Trocaire College

• Dr. Irwin Gelman, Doctor, Cantor, Roswell Park Cancer Institute

• Jillian Hanesworth, Buffalo Poet Laureate

• Dr. Matt Frahm, Superintendent, Clarence Central School District

STAFF LEADERS include

• Mara Koven-Gelman, Senior Director, JCRC

• Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein, Rabbi, Congregation Shir Shalom, JCRC Jewish Educator

• Rob Goldberg, CEO, Buffalo Jewish Federation

apartment which they will then help clean, furnish and set up.

They were also assisted by a number of UB students involved with Hillel. While this is just the beginning of the resettlement process, the Circle of Care team has already united to help provide everything for this first Jewish Ukrainian family so that they too feel the sense of community, friendship, and empathy that defines Buffalo.

Wendy Weisbrot, Chair of the HRC Leadership Council, noted “I must say that it was a beautiful and emotional experience…we are overwhelmed by the extraordinary community support.” The HRC and JFS leadership would like to thank everyone in Jewish Buffalo for all the generous support and to the entire Circle of Care team for their support and love in making this family’s transition to Buffalo as seamless as possible. Your generosity and genuine concern continue to propel all of us forward and the family is incredibly appreciative and forever grateful.

If you would like to make a donation to the Holocaust Resource Center of Buffalo to help the first Jewish Ukrainian family, visit hrcbuffalo.org or contact Mandy Weiss, Director of HRC Operations, at mandy@ buffalojewishfederation.org or 716-463-5065.

Participants making pita

The Jewish Ukrainian family together with volunteers and staff at the Buffalo- Niagara Airport.

Federation People Plan Includes Several New Leadership Positions

Rob Goldberg, CEO of Buffalo Jewish Federation, is pleased to announce changes in the professional team to better align the organization’s talent with its 2023 goals and objectives. The new people plan is a result of 9 months of internal work with Federation’s top leadership and pivots around data collected through a comprehensive human resources survey conducted by Leading Edge, an innovative non-profit that helps Jewish organizations improve their workplace culture and leadership so that they can better achieve their missions.

supporters and closely with Assistant Executive Director Randi Morkisz, who will be retiring from her full-time role this summer and transitioning to a new role as Major Gifts Specialist. “Miriam is such a valuable Federation asset, and I’m thrilled to see her expand her reach into new areas, making even more of an impact in the community,” observed Margie Bryen, incoming President of Buffalo Jewish Federation.

Miriam Abramovich, who has served the Federation in a variety of capacities since 2013, and led the successful transition of the Bureau of Jewish Education to LiNK Jewish Buffalo, is now Federation’s Chief Operating Officer. Previously Miriam served as Federation’s Chief Experience Officer, overseeing LiNK Jewish Buffalo where she and her team worked at the intersection of engagement, learning, and leadership, helping individuals and families to live, learn and lead Jewishly across Buffalo. With over 20 years of experience in Jewish professional leadership in cities across the East Coast, Miriam has directed a number of innovative opportunities for Jewish Buffalo, such as the Made in Buffalo series, Engagement Conference, Buffalo Israel Experience trips, and KOLOT. In her new role, Miriam will oversee Talent and People Planning, provide operational support for Governance, and manage the organization’s team of Senior Directors. She will also become more deeply engaged in philanthropy, working with the Federation’s most treasured

Federation is also pleased to announce that effective January 1, three talented professionals have transitioned into new Senior Directorship roles. Mara KovenGelman is now Senior Director of Jewish Community Relations, Mike Steklof is Senior Director of LiNK Jewish Buffalo, and Stacey Block is Senior Director of Operations and Donor Experience. “These title changes recognize the invaluable skills and passion each of these professionals bring to Federation and the greater community,” remarked Goldberg. “We are thrilled to have Mara, Mike and Stacey continue to share their talents in Jewish Buffalo. The impact they’ve had in their current roles and the impact we know they will have going forward will help us to build a flourishing Jewish Buffalo for years to come.”

Senior Directors Mara Koven-Gelman, Mike Steklof, and Stacey Block with Miriam Abramovich

Federation’s COO Miriam Abramovich

Inclusion and Belonging: Our Daily Pursuit for a Flourishing Community

BY JANET GUNNER

February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM). Established in 2009 by the Jewish Special Education International Consortium, JDAIM’s mission is “to unite Jewish communities worldwide to raise awareness and champion the rights of all Jews to be included and to participate in all aspects of Jewish life like anyone else. JDAIM is a call to action to each one of us in accordance with our Jewish values, honoring the gifts and strengths that we each possess.”

My husband Glenn Pincus and I have been fortunate to raise our three now adult children in Jewish Buffalo where I can say first-hand that inclusion and belonging are not mere observances during a particular day or month, but rather a daily pursuit for many visionary and dedicated clergy,

professionals, lay leaders and volunteers in our community. Our 30-year-old son Daniel has intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder and a seizure disorder. Disability impacts all of us: according to the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC), 26% of adults in the U.S. have some type of disability. Glenn and I embrace JDAIM because it requires us individually and collectively to take stock. How are we doing? What have we accomplished so far? What are our evolving goals? What tweaks or changes in approach are necessary to achieve our current goals and move forward?

Let me shine a light on a few community accomplishments. I’m thankful for the opportunity I have had to be involved with Temple Beth Tzedek (TBT) Kesher Inclusion since its inception in 2000. One of Kesher’s guiding tenets is that every person is welcomed and encouraged to participate in every aspect of synagogue life. We have learned, however, there is also value in specially tailored programs where we engage with other community partners. By way of example, the Kesher Inclusion Outstretched Arm program, now in its 21st year, envisioned and led by Sharla Bleichfeld with Rabbi Adam Rosenbaum and Cantor Mark Spindler and amazing volunteers, was created to ensure that people of all abilities have meaningful ways to participate in our beloved Jewish traditions.

TBT’s Kesher Inclusion Lifelong Learning program, envisioned and led by Marian Lustig with extraordinary volunteer teachers and now in its sixth year, focuses on topics of Judaism that interest the students often in one-on-one learning. The program culminates each year in a community Havdalah celebration.

Buffalo Jewish Federation has b’tzelem elokim (“created with the spark of the divine”) as “a guiding value that underscores how everyone has something

of value to contribute and everyone has the right to belong.” We greatly appreciate the Federation Women’s Jewish Group Home Miriam’s Well and Future Men’s Jewish Group Home programs envisioned and led by Mike Steklof, Miriam Abramovich, Robin Kurss, Rabbi Rosenbaum and Zach Steinberg. Our spirits soar with the monumental achievement of NYS’ recent approval of a culturally sensitive group home in the Amherst area (Men’s Jewish Group Home). Key to the state’s approval was the demonstrated commitment of Jewish Buffalo to an inclusive community providing the women and men with a powerful sense of belonging and Federation CEO Rob Goldberg’s championing of the Men’s Home. We are so grateful.

Finally, I’d like to suggest a few goals. First, an originator of JDAIM, Shelly Christensen, emphasized in her book From Longing to Belonging, that it is important to pursue both “Structural Inclusion” (removing barriers) and the “Spirit of Belonging.” Ms. Christensen writes, “Belonging is based on relationships within the community that encourage and empower people with disabilities and mental health conditions to participate like anyone else. Belonging occurs when community members build relationships with people with disabilities, listening to what is important to them, and how they want to be involved.” On Structural Inclusion, I encourage us all to emulate Federation’s proactive practice of asking each program registrant (with followup) whether any accommodations are needed to make the program experience meaningful. Second, inclusion and belonging will endure only if we all embrace the role. Rabbi Tarfon stated, “It is not your obligation to complete the work [of perfecting the world], but you are not free to desist from it either.” (Ethics of the Fathers 2:16.)

As we begin a new calendar year, please join us with your vision, leadership, and support to help ensure an enduring inclusive flourishing community that values all people, making each person feel they belong. Please contact Janet Gunner (janet.gunner@gmail.com) or Mike Steklof, Senior Director of LiNK, (mike@buffalojewishfederation.org) for more information.

Janet Gunner is chair of Kesher Inclusion at Temple Beth Tzedek.

Glenn Pincus, Daniel Pincus, Janet Gunner

Addressing antisemitism and Ensuring Joyous Judaism

BY MIKE STEKLOF, ED.D.

Over the past few years, the Buffalo Jewish Federation has been engaged in the powerful work of gathering groups of teens to wrestle with simple and not so simple questions, including: “What does being Jewish mean to you?” “What to say when friends wish you a merry Christmas,” and “How to react when you learn of antisemitic comments made by celebrities.”

centers and homes, extremist flyering campaigns, and antisemitic comments by celebrities.

Given this rise in incidents, the Buffalo Jewish Federation is increasingly committed to the work of addressing antisemitism. Our approach recognizes that we must support individuals and organizations when they encounter antisemitism, but also work to ensure that Judaism remains joyful to all. Thanks to a $5,000 grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation to inspire multicultural connections, we are working to raise the visibility of our vibrant Jewish community, create opportunities for families of different faiths and cultures to have a shared experience. In addition, work will focus on preparing parents and educators to discuss antisemitism with their children

through age-appropriate resources, and thanks to a $7,000 grant from the Shine a Light Foundation, in December we hosted a Hanukkah party for Jewish and multi-heritage families focused on spreading Jewish joy to address antisemitism.

We invite you to be in conversation about this important work, which is only in its infancy. Over the coming years there will be many opportunities to explore together how joyful Judaism can inform our work to address antisemitism, including at a program for parents in May entitled, “How to Speak to Your Children About Antisemitism”.

We are thankful to the LiNK Leadership Council, the Holocaust Resource Center Leadership Council, and the Jewish Community Relations Council for leading these efforts.

Mike Steklof, Ed.D. is the Senior Director at LiNK Jewish Buffalo and works with an incredible team of colleagues to bring joy to Jewish moments. He can be reached at mike@ buffalojewishfederation.org.

After grappling with these questions and participating in a three-month weekly training program, these teens were deployed to area schools through the Student to Student® program to share stories about their personal Jewish experience. Inevitably during their presentations, the subject of antisemitism would come up either in direct or subtle ways. The teen presenters spoke about how they have experienced antisemitism firsthand. Examples include hearing antisemitic jokes exchanged after a musical theatre production that featured a Jewish character, seeing swastikas drawn on friends’ binders, or having antisemitic comments left on their Instagram posts. Regardless of the content, timing or nature of the incident, every Student to Student® presenter shared that they experienced antisemitism. This is not simply a teenage phenomenon. In the last year, parents of young Jewish children in our community have reached out to Jewish professionals to ask for support or advice about what to do when their child feels stigmatized for being Jewish. According to a recent Jerusalem Post article, antisemitism can also be felt at the workplace; 26% of hiring managers state that they are less likely to hire a job applicant if they are Jewish.

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance defines antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.” Recent antisemitism includes shootings in a synagogue, the use of stereotypes, linking Jews to societal ills, using harmful symbols like a swastika, and anti-Zionist actions or sentiments.

According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), 2021 saw the highest number on record for reports of vandalism, violence and harassment directed against Jews. The ADL has tracked these incidents since 1979 and sees these record-breaking numbers as part of a five-year upswing in antisemitism, which is unprecedented in modern American history. The current increase includes the 2018 attack on the Pittsburgh Tree of Life Synagogue where a shooter killed 11 synagogue attendees and the deadly Charlottsville, VA, “Unite the Right” rally where demonstrators chanted, “Jews will not replace us” as well as smaller incidents which include vandalizing Jewish schools, community

Jewish Student to Student® leaders present to their peers

Margie Bryen Installed as New Federation President

On December 7 at Buffalo Jewish Federation’s 119th Annual Meeting, Marjorie (Margie) Bryen was elected and installed as Federation’s 53rd President. She succeeds Shelly Yellen who has served in the role for the past two years. In addition to Margie, Marc Brown and Rise’ Kulick were elected as Vice Presidents, Shawn Frier as Treasurer and Cheryl Stein as Secretary.

In her acceptance remarks, Margie thanked Shelly for his strong and steady leadership particularly as the agency made its way through the pandemic.

Margie’s complete remarks can be found in her President’s Column on page 3.

The Annual Meeting was hosted by Congregation Shir Shalom and held in conjunction with the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies. During the meeting, Foundation and Federation honored three outstanding leaders in Jewish Buffalo: Howard Rosenhoch, who received Foundation’s highest honor with the Endowment Leadership Award, Rabbi Sara Rich, who received the Kantor Professional Service Award, and Jim Biltekoff, who was honored with the Ann Holland Cohn Community Impact Award.

Federation also welcomed four new Governors to the board, each elected to

serve a three-year term beginning this month: Kirstie Henry, Jim Kramer, Robin Raphael and Blaine Schwartz. This group joins Kenneth Dauber, Deborah Goldman, Marina Maulucci-Finkelstein and Ezra Rich who were nominated for a second three-year term. During his remarks, Shelly Yellen also recognized and presented gifts to Hadar Borden, Brenda Feldstein, Nina Lukin, Andy Shaevel and Ellen Weiss who have completed their terms of service on Federation’s Board of Governors. “We are grateful to each of them for their commitment to Federation and their many contributions to strengthen Jewish Buffalo,” noted Shelly.

“I am honored and humbled to be able to step into shoes worn in the past by so many great leaders,” she continued. “As an organization and a community, we have so much to be proud of, from welcoming new refugees to Western New York to another transformative trip to Israel for over 50 community members, to beautifying our cemeteries, to the integration and growth of HRC, to ongoing new programming within LiNK and more.”

From left, clockwise: New officers in attendance: Cheryl Stein, Margie Bryen, Shawn Frier with Shelly Yellen; Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein delivering a D’var Torah; Shelly Yellen offering his President’s Repor; Andrew & Amy Shaevel presenting the Ann Holland Cohn Award; and Lana Benatovich accepting the Cohn award for Jim Biltekoff.

Our Merits are Doubled

RABBI SARA RICH

In early December, I was honored to be recognized by the Buffalo Jewish Federation with the Judith and Daniel Kantor Professional Service Award at the Joint Annual Meetings of the Federation and Foundation. Here is an adapted version of the words that I shared with the community that evening:

Receiving a professional service award from the Buffalo Jewish Federation is a very meaningful moment in my life, and one that I never expected. When my husband Ezra and I moved here, coming up on six years ago, it was the start of an adventure for us. We came to Buffalo so that I could assume the role of Executive Director of Hillel of Buffalo and lead an effort to revitalize the organization. Ezra and I were ‘sold’ on Buffalo because of the professional opportunities here, and because it seemed like a wonderful place to raise a family.

In the Torah portion Vayishlach, Jacob leaves the land of Haran with his four wives, their twelve children, and hundreds of animals. He was not from Haran originally, and he traveled there with the purpose of finding a wife. However, once he is there, his world expands. He marries several times, has many children, and over the years, accrues wealth, knowledge, and life experience.

Over the last six years, Hillel has grown into an organization that serves 300-400 Jewish students each year, plus dozens of students who are not Jewish. We have crafted a Hillel that reaches a more diverse student population than ever before, with opportunities that go beyond Shabbat dinner to meet their interests in Jewish learning, Israel, cooking, community service, music, and more. Hillel of Buffalo has grown as a partner with many departments at the University, and we have been recognized through Hillel International as a model of innovation. We have reconnected with alumni from decades ago, and we are helping students today to build connections through local professional networks.

This is not success that I brought on the moving truck with me from Princeton. This was all grown here in Buffalo, and is only possible because of what I learned here, because of the generosity of so many people, and because of the power of partnership.

Jacob reflects on his life, saying, God, “Heiteiv, eitiv imachSurely you will bestow much goodness” to me (Gen. 32:13).

There is a repetition of the word tov, ‘good.’ Medieval Torah commentator Rashi explains, the first word, heiteiv, is the goodness that Jacob receives on account of his own merits. The second good, eitiv, is on account of the merits of his ancestors.

For whatever goodness has happened for Hillel on my account, it is doubled by the merits of everyone who has lent a hand to help Hillel start to achieve its full potential. This list includes the Hillel staff, board, and students; Rob Goldberg and the Buffalo Jewish Federation staff; Irv Levy and the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies; my colleagues at our local

synagogues and agencies; Aviva Snyder and all of my colleagues on other campuses and at Hillel International; Ezra, our daughters, and our families and friends; and it includes everyone who supports Hillel so that we can in turn support the students.

My blessing for all of us is that we can feel pride in what we have achieved in our lives, and can recognize the unexpected blessings that have come our way. May we express our gratitude to those who share in our successes, and may we merit to continue to serve our community together.

Rabbi Sara Rich is Executive Director of Hillel of Buffalo.

Dan Kantor, Rabbi Sara Rich, Judy Kantor and Miriam Abramovich

Making An Impact: 2023

The Buffalo Jewish Federation provides an array of services and programming aligned with six Community Impact Areas, developed and approved by the Federation Board of Governors in the spring of 2019:

• Jewish Experience, Engagement and Learning

• Caring for Jewish Buffalo

• Promoting a Civil and Just Society

• Connection to Israel and Global Jewry

• Preserving our Legacy

• Sustaining and Securing our Community

In crafting Federation’s operating budget and determining grants for our local and overseas partners, Federation’s leadership connects the resources we raise from nearly 1,700 donors to each impact area so that we and our partners can build a flourishing Jewish community in Buffalo and around the world.

Local Impact

Through a system of community partner agencies and synagogues, we seek to gather every age and segment of our community to strengthen Jewish life and care for one another. Our campaign grants within the Federation umbrella (such as support for The Jewish Journal, Jewish Community Relations and the Holocaust Resource Center) as well as local partner grants provide an array of program touch points from cultural arts through the JCC, engagement, experiences and student leadership development for Jewish college students at Chabad and Hillel, Jewish day school education at Ohr Temimim and for Kadimah Scholars at Park School.

Global Impact

Federation also provides grants for organizations that support Jews in need outside of our region. Overseas Partner Grants are provided to several Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and our three historic partners, The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), The Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and World ORT.

Jewish Experience, Engagement and Learning

Combined Impact

Federation dollars constantly and consistently meet the needs of our Jewish family, no matter how far-reaching and no matter where they may be, and when combining the campaign grants to support Federation programs and activities and grants made to our local and overseas partners, the total grant funds awarded for Fiscal 2023 is $2,681,094. Look at the chart that indicates the overall impact of campaign dollars including a breakdown of partner grants by impact area and a list below of all the organizations receiving a partner grant in each impact area (listed in order from largest to smallest).

Nurture relationships that connect, engage, and enrich all Jews and their loved ones and those exploring Judaism. Promote community engagement through activities, experiences and learning. Amplify the work of and promote collaboration between traditional institutions and innovative Jewish groups, including synagogues, minyans, agencies, schools and affinity groups.

Caring for Jewish Buffalo

Ensure that care and support is available for Jews and their loved ones facing financial, emotional, physical or spiritual needs.

Promoting a Civil and Just Society

Cultivate and foster meaningful and collaborative relationships with other faith and ethnic groups and cultural communities with the goal of educating, advocating and building a more civil and just society. Combat hate, antisemitism and discrimination in all forms; and provide support to individuals and communities in times of crisis.

GRANTS

Connection to Israel and Global Jewry

Advocate on behalf of, and develop connections to, the State of Israel and the Jewish people around the world.

PARTNER GRANTS (totaling $307,781):

• Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo

• The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI)

• American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC)

• Partnership 2Gether Western Galilee Central Area Consortium (P2G)

• World ORT

• Hillel of Buffalo

• Abayudaya Jewish Community of Uganda

• Akko Center for Arts and Technology (A-CAT)

• ORT: YOUuniversity After-School Enrichment for Ukrainian Refugees in Mateh Asher

• ALMA: Pre-Military Academy for Female Leadership

• Hand in Hand

• Krembo Wings

Preserving our Legacy

Celebrate and honor our rich heritage, collective history and enduring faith by curating and promoting Jewish wisdom, cultural arts, history, communal celebrations and memorials.

PARTNER GRANTS

(totaling $229,546):

• Public Relations

(Jewish Journal and My Jewish Buffalo)

• Jewish Buffalo History Center

• Cemetery Corporation

• Hebrew Benevolent Loan Association (HBLA)

Sustaining and Securing our Community

Create and strengthen the structure necessary to support a strong and vibrant Jewish Buffalo. Cultivate investments to support the current and long term financial, and facility needs of the entire community. Develop human capital to ensure innovative and responsive leadership by both professional and volunteer leaders. Foster collaboration and partnership among community partners through convening, planning, and shared services to optimize our collective resources. Lastly, invest in security measures and coordinate with all levels of law enforcement to enhance the safety and well-being of Jewish Buffalo at places of worship and community gathering.

Buffalo Lions Roar in Phoenix!

Ten Buffalo Women participated in the International Lion of Judah (ILOJ) Conference at the Arizona Biltmore in December, celebrating 50 years of Lions of Judah. Ellen Romer Weiss was named our community’s Kipnis WilsonFriedland winner, which honors exceptional women philanthropists and leaders. During the conference, women heard from speakers Katie Couric, Gabby Giffords, Marlee Matlin and others on subjects ranging from philanthropy, antisemitism, activism and so much more. Participating from Buffalo were incoming Federation President Margie Bryen, Women’s Philanthropy Chair Amelida Ortiz Weinmann, Shira Brown, Rise Kulick, Randi Morkisz, Michele Pozarny, Ellen Reis, Joni Shatkin, Ellen Romer Weiss and Kim Yonaty.

Buffalo’s New African American Veterans Monument

BY RACHEL BEERMAN, JCRC MANAGER

Since opening its doors in 1979, The Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park has been an important place to learn about and honor the brave military men and women who have served our country. The most recent addition to the military park, The African American Veterans Monument (AAVM), is the first monument in the nation designed to commemorate African Americans who have served in all six branches of the military in times of war and peace. The memorial was designed by Jonathan Casey and the team at Solid 716, and through the outstanding website (aavmwny.org), visitors can learn about twelve military eras of United States history and the African Americans who served during those times.

The Buffalo Jewish Federation (BJF) was honored to be a bronze sponsor of the new monument and to play a small part to ensure that these stories of American bravery and dedication to country and humanity are preserved far into the future.

While there are many ways in which the lives of African Americans and Jews have intersected during America’s military history, one very powerful experience happened during the World War II era. The 761st Tank Battalion, a segregated all Black unit, was present at the liberation of a subcamp of Mauthausen. One of the soldiers, Floyd D., whose story is archived at the Holocaust Center of San Francisco, recounted in a talk to students about his experience there: “We all are God’s creatures,

and we’re all alike,” he said. “Our skin may be different; our color may be different. That doesn’t give us the right to hate one another. We are all the same in the eyes of God….”

“Whoever say that it didn’t happen, I would like to tell them that it did, and I am a living witness to witness it.” he continued.

“To me, it’s memories, and to the ones that wasn’t there, and now, it’s history. To them. So they gotta believe it. They must believe it, because if we don’t remember this, it’ll happen again.”

The new African American Veterans Monument at The Buffalo and Erie Country Naval and Military Park  Dog tag noting the Jewish Federation’s Support

JCRC Participants in PPG’s Community Agenda Vote

chopped romaine salad mix and fresh fruit salad. Huge selection of ingredients, toppings & dressings, complemented with garlic bread sticks and fresh rolls. Eat in or take out.

On Friday, December 2, members of the JCRC, along with hundreds of other non-profit leaders and community members, attended the Partnership for the Public Good’s (PPG) Community Agenda Vote. After hearing presentations about proposed planks from 15 area organizations, JCRC was able to cast a vote for five of the planks that most aligned with its mission. The organizations who sponsored the ten platform planks that received the most votes will then work closely with the PPG to help actualize their initiatives to

strengthen our community. It was inspiring to hear from so many dedicated individuals and see democracy in action. To learn more about PPG and the Community Agenda go to ppgbuffalo.org/community-agenda/.

JCRC helps to promote Security Webinar to Community Partners

Buffalo’s Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) was honored to promote a Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) Intergroup Nonprofit Security Webinar last month. The target audience for this webinar was JCRC’s non-Jewish, inter-group and interfaith partners who are eligible for Non-Profit Security Grants (NPSG) money, and JCRC is grateful to Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein and Network of Religious Communities Director Rev. Stan Bratton for engaging their colleagues in participating. The webinar featured Mark Silveira, Senior Advisor, Grants Administration of FEMA’s Grants Program Directorate, Nate Looney, JFNA Director of Community Safety and Belonging, and other experts. This webinar provided a roadmap for JCRC civic partners to prepare and position themselves to successfully apply for NPSG.

L-R Judy Henn, Samantha White, Amy Shuman, Rachel Beerman and Deborah Cohen

L-R Amy Shuman, Deborah Cohen, Samantha White and Judy Henn from TBZ

Reflections on Life & Legacy at Buffalo

Total Legacy Commitments

Received: 238

Total dollar amount: $8,550,023

LIFE & LEGACY® is a partnership with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation that promotes after-lifetime giving to benefit Jewish synagogues and organizations. Legacy giving ensures that you will be remembered by those who directly benefit from your generosity as well as those who will be inspired by your example for future generations.

In 2021, the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, in collaboration with the Buffalo Jewish Federation, was selected to join more than 70 other communities across North America in this Jewish legacy giving initiative. To-date, the initiative has secured more than 30,000 permanently endowed commitments amounting to more than $1 Billion. The four-year LIFE & LEGACY® program provides coaching, training, and resources to ensure that a culture of philanthropy and legacy giving becomes an integral part of the Buffalo Jewish community. Together, the Foundation and Federation are committed to helping secure the future of Jewish Buffalo. Each month, please visit this LIFE & LEGACY® @ Buffalo section to learn about the local agencies and synagogues partnering in this effort.

For more information, please contact Linda Barat, LIFE & LEGACY® Coordinator for the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies at linda@jewishphilanthropies.org or 716-204-2259.

“As my forefathers planted these carob trees for me so I too plant these for my children.”

— Talmud (Ta’anis 23b)

In November,

Kahn and Alison Keane hosted a cocktail party for interested participants

to

learn more about Life & Legacy at Buffalo.

“It’s never too early to begin securing the future of a Jewish tomorrow.”

JAKE WARNER

“We are creating additional ways for individuals to make a lasting difference to the institutions they care about.”

BEN

KERMAN

Foundation Director Irv Levy speaks about LIFE & LEGACY®

Ansie Baird, Ben Kerman & Alison Keane

Jake Warner & Arnie Kahn

“This initiative is so important for the legacy of Buffalo’s Jewish community.  It’s not going to take care of itself.”

MAURA COHEN “This endeavor is critically important. Those who follow us may not know who we were, but they will benefit from the institutions we love, and they will know there were people who cared.”

TOBY & JOHN LAPING

Holocaust Survivor Ruth Lansing Celebrates 104 Years!

BY VILONA TRACHTENBERG

Representatives from Holocaust Resource Center of Buffalo (HRC) and Jewish Family Services of WNY (JFS) had the pleasure of celebrating local Holocaust survivor Ruth Lansing’s 104th birthday in November! Lauren Bloomberg, Director of Engagement for HRC, and Sara Mintz, Jewish community Case Worker at JFS, surprised Ruth with balloons, flowers, and a birthday hat, all to celebrate this special woman.

Sara’s excitement to celebrate Ruth’s birthday was all she could think about that whole week. As a descendant of Holocaust survivors herself, it is very important for her to know about the Holocaust, her family’s history, and celebrate our local survivors. “My favorite moment of celebrating Ruth’s birthday was when she told me and Lauren how despite the first half of her life being hard, it’s been a long, good life,” Sara said. “I thought that was a beautiful way to look at life, that despite the hardships, her life was still a good one.”

Ruth survived Kristallnacht, “Night of Broken Glass,” where in November of 1938, Nazis torched and vandalized thousands of Jewish-owned businesses and synagogues and killed 100 Jews. Ruth also survived deportation to concentration camps, and was able to escape to England through help from her cousin. She was also a translator during the Nuremberg trials.

“It is important to talk with and celebrate our local Holocaust survivors because they deserve to be remembered,” Sara said. “They have experienced so much, and just being able to sit, listen, and talk with them is so very important. This is part of the reason I do the work I do; I want to be able to help my own community in any way that I can.”

Vilona Trachtenberg works in distribution at New Era Cap and is a freelance writer and community advocate. She was also awarded an ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award through Buffalo Niagara Partnership in 2022.

Join the Kadimah @ Park Family in 2023

Kadimah Scholars at Park is the best of both worlds, bringing a Jewish day school education to one of the region’s oldest independent private schools. It combines the 63-year-old tradition of Kadimah Academy with the century-old progressive tradition of Park.

Kadimah Scholars at Park offers students a deep foundation of Jewish knowledge and a pride in their Jewish heritage. Students learn Hebrew, study Torah and Jewish teachings, discover lessons of Jewish history and develop a base of understanding of their Jewish roots. Throughout the academic year, students celebrate Jewish holidays together at Park, while sharing Jewish traditions and values with the broader Park community. They’ll do all this while learning English, math, science, social studies, and other secular subjects, and enjoying a broad array of extracurricular activities and sports, alongside their diverse Park classmates on Park’s beautiful 34-acre Amherst campus.

Want to learn more? Visit kadimah.org or theparkschool.org All are welcome to join an open house at Park on Sunday, Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. or on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 9 a.m., with a special focus on Kadimah along with the rest of what Park has to offer. To register for the open house, or for more information, call (716) 839-1242, ext. 105, or email admissions@theparkschool.org.

Lauren Bloomberg and Sara Mintz celebrate with Ruth Lansing

Super Sunday is February 26!

Buffalo Jewish Federation will hold its 43rd Super Sunday Phonathon for the Campaign for Jewish Buffalo on Sunday, February 26, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the JCC’s Benderson Building. Super Sunday is the one day in which the Buffalo Jewish community comes together to raise funds to invest in vital programs through our local agencies as well as those in Israel, and in countries around the world.

Chairs Susan Freed and Jake Katz invite community members to join in this year, together with other volunteers, to reach out to people in our local community and raise much needed dollars for the Campaign for Jewish Buffalo. “Having participated in Super Sundays over the past 30+ years, I am delighted that we will be in person for a special day, truly Celebrating Jewish Buffalo.”

Sue shared

“I’ve been participating in Super Sunday since I was in elementary school,” Jake added. “From running cards, to organizing cards,

then making thank you calls, and now soliciting donations. It’s especially meaningful because my mom, Susie, is a past Super Sunday Chair. I am honored to take on this new role and share it with fellow leader Susan Freed.”

HERE’S WHAT’S HAPPENING ON SUPER SUNDAY

Join us for a Nosh and Information Session at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Community Service Opportunities

• Help pack Dignity Grows totes that provide personal hygiene essentials to our neighbors in need

• Write Thank You Notes to community members who have pledged to support Jewish Buffalo

• Make Thank You Calls to community members who have pledged to support Jewish Buffalo Experience the JCC

• Take a fitness class

• Tour the New and Improved Kids Place area, including the E-Sports Arena and Makers Space

• Learn about Membership opportunities and Program offerings Learn about Jewish Buffalo

• Visit the Jewish Buffalo Agency Showcase to learn about how the dollars raised have a direct impact in the community 2023 Campaign Phonathon

• Volunteer to make calls to community members for the Campaign for Jewish Buffalo

• Two shifts available: 9:30-11:00 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

HOW DO I REGISTER?

You can register online at bit.ly/2023SUPERSUNDAY, call Stacey Block at 716-463-5053, or e-mail Stacey@buffalojewishfederation.org for more information.

Susan Freed

Jake Katz

The Buffalo Day of Jewish Learning: Sunday, March 12

The 2023 Buffalo Day of Jewish Learning will take place Sunday, March 12 from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center’s Benderson Building. This yearly event will feature a mix of educational programs by an array of students, educators, professors, rabbis and community leaders in order to showcase the exciting variety of Jewish education opportunities available in Buffalo. A kosher lunch and snacks (BVK supervised) will be available throughout the day for participants.

The day will have multiple tracks so attendees can choose between various sessions of interest. Some of the topics this year include: “Diversity of Jewish Food”; “Humanitarian Work in Ukraine from the Front Lines”; “Israel’s

75th Anniversary: Accomplishments and Challenges”; “Local Rabbis in Conversation”; “Talmudic Study in the Academy and the Yeshiva”; “Visiting the Middle East after the Abraham Accords”; “What Makes a Strong Jewish Community?”

There will also be special tracks for children and teens.

If you want to get a taste of the incredible diversity of discussions and presentations, you can check out this podcast with recordings from last year on Anchor or Spotify at https://anchor. fm/buffalodayjewishlearning

The event is coordinated by Prof. Alex Green of UB’s Department of Jewish Thought, who also serves as Buffalo Jewish Community Educator. This program is part of the Home/Hub Partnership between UB’s College of Arts and Sciences, Hillel and the Buffalo Jewish Federation. Feel free to contact Alex at agreen6@buffalo.edu for more information or to sponsor a session. A complete schedule of events will be featured in the March issue of The Jewish Journal of WNY.

Recharge Your Soul with Buffalo Moms Trip to Israel this October

Buffalo Jewish Federation is excited to again be a part of the Momentum Year-Long Journey that includes an 8-day experience in Israel from October 23-30, 2023. Momentum empowers women to connect to Jewish values, engage with Israel, take action, and foster unity without uniformity.

If you are a mother raising Jewish children under the age of 18, you are invited to join women from all over the world for unforgettable experiences in Israel where you will explore the Jewish homeland, take in inspiring Jewish wisdom, and join a global Jewish sisterhood. Back home, you’ll have the opportunity to channel your energy and passion personally, professionally, and communally, as you continue your journey through educational and leadership programs.

Take the first step by applying today at MomentumUnlimited.org/journey. Space is limited and some restrictions apply. For more information, please contact Miriam Abramovich at 716-463-5060 | miriam@buffalojewishfederation.org, or Stacey Block at 716-463-5053 | Stacey@buffalojewishfederation.org

All photos are from the 2022 Buffalo Day of Jewish Learning.

Father & Son Torah learning begins at Young Israel of Greater Buffalo

Mr. Wallen, one the kids’ favorite story tellers

Meir Greenberg, 10, shares a few SERVICE BUILT ON INDEPENDENCE & TRUST Securities and advisory services Offered Through FSC Securities Corporation A Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SPIC and a registered investment advisor. Additional advisory services offered through Mollot & Hardy, Inc. A registered investment advisor not affiliated with FSC Securities Corporation.

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After a two-year hiatus due to Covid, the Avos U’banim -fathers and sons - program has resumed every Saturday night at Young Israel. The sounds of fathers learning Torah with their sons can be heard reverberating through the synagogue, warming up the cold Buffalo nights. As the program concludes, one can feel the energy pulsating in the room as the attendees are treated to guest story tellers, Parsha riddles, prize raffles and delicious treats.

JFS is Lighting the Path into 2023

BY TODD GEISE

On November 30, Jewish Family Services held its first fundraiser in several years, allowing attendees to reconnect

The theme for the event, Lighting the Path, underscored JFS’ core purpose to enable clients to achieve their unique

aspirations. Throughout 2022, the agency worked diligently on its counseling and care coordination services, allocating

significant time and resources to support Afghan evacuees in the first half of the year and Ukrainian refugees in the second half. For hundreds of these refugees, JFS offered hope and guidance, lighting their path forward.

To celebrate, traditional Afghan and Ukrainian foods were offered in the vaulted first-floor lounge, as well as scrumptious Jewish desserts. A signature cocktail was created for the event, The Zelenskyy (in honor of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Time Magazine’s 2022 Person of the Year), with proceeds donated back to JFS.

During her remarks to more than 100 guests, JFS CEO Dr. Molly S. Carr emphasized the importance of cultivating and nurturing community partnerships such as those formed within the Ukrainian Community that are vital for the successful welcoming and support to those fleeing war in Eastern Europe. She also acknowledged the partnerships with numerous Jewish organizations and announced the arrival of a Jewish-Ukrainian family on Friday, December 2. Although helping numerous families so far, this is the first Jewish family

officially sponsored by JFS. Dr. Carr also made special mention of the Circle of Care formed by Temple Beth Tzedek and the Holocaust Resource Center that are supporting the eight-person family (see page 4). JFS is grateful for these partnerships that will make a big impact.

JFS was thrilled with the level of sponsorship interest for the event and is grateful to CWA Local 1122, M&T Bank, Buffalo Jewish Federation, Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo, Amherst Memorial Chapel, LippesMathias, NYS Senator Timothy Kennedy (D-63), and Marketing Tech for their generosity. If you would like to learn more about how you can participate in 2023, contact our Development Office at development@ jfswny.org

Todd Geise is Director of Marketing with Jewish Family Services of WNY.

Sokolivka: Once Home

BY CHANA REVELL KOTZIN, PH.D.

Sokolivkers in Buffalo and their descendants elsewhere can trace their roots back to two connected towns in the Russian Empire: Sokolivka and Yustingrad (Ustingrad). On a map today, Sokolivka appears in Ukraine, 98 miles south of Kiev and 179 miles north of Odessa, but historically it was located near the Romanian and Austro-Hungarian borders and before World War I, within the Russian Empire. The Jewish Buffalo History Center is creating an online exhibition about Sokolivka and Sokolivker descendants in Buffalo to launch in March 2023. This exhibition is dedicated in

memory of a beloved volunteer leader, lost all too soon: Leslie Shuman Kramer (z”l), and is supported by the Kramer-Shuman family.

A small number of Sokolivkers left for America at the turn of the twentieth century, and settled in Philadelphia and New York as well as Buffalo. The greater number of Buffalo Sokolivkers came after a series of three pogroms in 1918. These terrible events were vividly recalled by survivor, Chaika Aliotz Shuman. Her testimony later informed part of a book entitled The Shuman Story. A memorial for those murdered during the pogroms is located at the entrance of the Holy Order of the Living cemetery on Pine Ridge and was erected by the Sokolifker landsleit in Buffalo, dedicated on August 30, 1964. As many as 200 families came to Buffalo including the family names of Ablove, Berkun, Carrel, Dozoretz, Gelman, Kaprove, Rekoon, Shuman and Wagner among many others.

Several organizations were connected directly and indirectly to the Sokolivker story in Buffalo and some of these already have short profiles on the Jewish Buffalo History Center website jewishbuffalohistory.org that we would like to expand. They include the congregation of Anshe Sokolivka formed around 1908, also known as the Spring Street Shul for their congregational home at 350 Spring Street, between William and Peckham. There was also a benevolent society, called the Ustingrader Unterstitzung Verein that was created in 1913 and closed in 1945. Sokolifkers were also members of several other synagogues, including Rabbi Joseph Rabinowitz who led Brith Sholem from 1908 to his death in 1910. His recently renovated ohel is located on Pine Ridge Road near the entranceway to B’nai Israel cemetery. Another rabbi’s family hail from Sokolivka: Rabbi Gedaliah Kaprow, who led Humboldt Orthodox Center also known as the Glenwood Avenue shul located in mid-Buffalo in the Humboldt area.

While a few studies of Sokolivkers have been undertaken (in part explaining

why Sokolivka has so many different names in Polish, Yiddish, Russian and Ukrainian and its connection to Yustingrad), there is very limited widely accessible archival materials and we hope to change that by assembling further online resources.

Please contact Chana Kotzin at chana@ buffalojewishfederation.org if you have materials you would be willing to share for the exhibition that can be copied and returned.

Chana Revell Kotzin, Ph.D., is the coordinator of the Jewish Buffalo History Center website, which you can find at jewishbuffalohistory.org.

Celebrating the acquisition of a Torah for Anshe Sokolivka Shul on Spring Street, ca. 1917. Collection of The Buffalo History Museum. Goldome-Nagle photograph collection.

Partnership2Gether (P2G) is a program of The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), promoting people-to-people relationships through a variety of programs. The Western Galilee Partnership connects 17 U.S. communities, of which Buffalo is a member, with Israel’s Western Galilee and Budapest, Hungary. Our participation is a joint project powered by the Buffalo Jewish Federation in collaboration with the JCC of Greater Buffalo.

This month we are pleased to announce that Iris Posklinsky, has been appointed by JAFI as our new Partnership Director. Over the past 14 years, Iris Posklinsky has been working for JAFI and most recently directed the Northern District and the Professional

and Content Development of the Global Partnership Network.

Prior to joining JAFI, Iris worked in community planning both in Jewish and non-Jewish communities in Canada. She holds an MSW and PhD and is teaching academic courses in community development and social work practice. Iris lives in Moshav Meona in the Western Galilee, where she enjoys rural life and making wine with her husband Yoram, who is also a longstanding communal professional in Israel (Yoram visited Buffalo 5 years ago on a Partnership delegation to the States). She is a mother of two sons, Eilon and Etai.

We wish Iris much success and look forward to working with her in her new role in the Partnership! For any programmatic questions, please contact Gon Erez at GErez@jccbuffalo.org. For any questions about the Consortium or the Leadership Council, please contact Mandy Weiss at mandy@ buffalojewishfederation.org or visit westerngalilee.org.il/.

What’s Happening at CRS

BY EINAV SYMONS

December provided opportunities to learn and celebrate Chanukah at the Community Religious School (CRS), both as a school and as part of the greater Buffalo Jewish community! There was also a beautiful Havdalah at TBZ for students in grades pre-k to 2nd grade led by TBZ’s Rabbi Brent Gutmann. The Madrichim (Grades 8-12) gathered for an ice-cream social on a Sunday afternoon and had an opportunity to share how they see and express their own Jewish identity. In December, six students in our Better 2 Learn Program travelled to Brandeis University, participating with teens from around the country in a 4-day intensive study.

Our Hebrew 1-1 tutors continue advancing at a great pace with their students. Our grades 6th and 7th students are engrossed in a pottery project with Cathy Shuman Miller. They will be making mezuzot, some of which will be donated to Jewish families in our community. The grades 5-7 students will have another opportunity to partner with the seniors at Amberleigh Senior Living and see the JRT production of Tuesdays with Morrie. The impact on the students and seniors who attended The Chosen together in November was fantastic!

CRS is excited to partner with TBZ and TBT for Shabbat dinners and services. The annual WineTasting Havdalah is also being revived after COVID on February 11th at TBT. Einav Symons is Director of the Community Religious School (CRS) that serves the students of Temple Beth Tzedek, Temple Beth Zion, Congregation Shir Shalom and unaffiliated families. Please check out our website www.crsbuffalo.com.

Hadassah Hospital’s Local Partners

While many in Jewish Buffalo may be familiar with the educational and social programs the local Hadassah plans throughout the year, they may not be as familiar with the volunteer work that Buffalo Hadassah does for the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) headquartered in Jerusalem. HMO does amazing lifesaving work and research that benefits people in Israel and around the world. Maxine Seller, a longtime Hadassah member, was recently in Israel when she became ill and needed emergency care, which she received at Hadassah. There are two HMO hospitals in Israel--one on Mount Scopus and one in Ein Kerem.

Every year Buffalo Hadassah, under the leadership of Frima Ackerhalt and Judy Stern, raises thousands of dollars for the HMO Campaign. Frima has chaired the HMO campaign for more than a dozen years. Judy joined her several years ago and the team has successfully coordinated calling the 600 + members of Buffalo Hadassah. Other chapters participate in

the campaign but almost all of them reach their members with pledge cards rather than personal calls. The calls are also a way for the leadership to stay connected with each and every Hadassah member.

HMO is also on the front lines of the war in Ukraine. Recently, they sent teams of medical personnel and much needed medical supplies to the border of Ukraine and Poland. They have made medical breakthroughs in the treatment of heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma and many other health conditions. The important work done by the HMO is what keeps Frima and Judy working hard to make sure the campaign is successful every year.

Judy Stern

Frima Ackerhalt

More than Life-Cycle Events at CSS

On Rosh Hashanah of this past year, Congregation Shir Shalom President Todd Sugarman, in his State of the Temple speech, promised his congregation that he would give much more than Religious Services to the CSS Membership. He wanted to make CSS a place to come and use on a daily basis. And he was true to his word as today CSS now has two indoor Pickleball Courts and Temple members can reserve the outdoor Worship Center and Picnic Grove for any events.

The Social Hall at CSS is getting a face lift with new windows and painting. New energy-efficient lights have been installed in the entire building. And as Sugarman says, this is just the beginning. Four outdoor Pickleball courts are scheduled for the spring, a temple winter celebration party, Winterfest, with a live band in March and many other activities are being planned to be held in the updated Social Hall.

According to David Safir, who is the Pickleball Chairman, congregants are

developing friendships with other congregants who they never knew went to CSS. Safir says this sport is for all ages. “We see younger people who play pickleball using the courts and other members who never played coming in to learn how to play.”

Both Sugarman and Safir are developing programs like youth pickleball and have received other suggestions from players who are very excited about having pickleball as part of their membership. Finally, both Sugarman and Safir say the congregation has great clergy and is a warm and welcoming congregation, so it’s time now to give the CSS congregation more benefits for members. As Sugarman said: “Our goal is to make CSS not only a place for life cycle events, but for Life.”

Kehillat Ohr Tzion Spotlight: Ron Cohen

All small synagogues are thrilled when a Kohen walks into their shul! This was certainly true for Kehillat Ohr Tzion when Ronald Cohen first came to our Shabbat services two and a half years ago. It was during the height of Covid and our services were being held in the parking lot adjacent to the building. Now Ron is not only a member of the synagogue who attends every service and every minyan when he is in town, he also serves on the Board and has initiated some important innovations for the shul.

Ron was born in Brooklyn, received his PhD in mathematics and taught at the university level for a few years before making a career shift into computer science. He moved to Buffalo from Sharon, Massachusetts where he had been an active member and innovator in the Modern Orthodox Synagogue there.

Since arriving in the City of Good Neighbors, KOT has benefited from Ron’s devotion to attending the Sunday and Thursday morning minyanim. He was also the major promoter for starting a Sunday evening Beit Midrash program at the shul.

His computer and creative skills led him to develop the KOT Jewish Calendar, which lists holidays and members’ birthdays, yahrzeits, anniversaries and other special occasions. He is now working on the calendar for 2023, which is not only a wonderful resource but a fundraiser for the shul as well. KOT honored Ron this past Simchat Torah as the Chatan Torah.

Ron also volunteers at the Center for Jewish Life when they need extra help delivering Kosher Meals on Wheels. Besides all of Ron’s other virtues, he’s also a good cook and frequently has friends over for meals on Shabbat and Yom Tov. Kehillat Ohr Tzion is certainly happy that Ron decided to relocate to Buffalo!

Lindy Korn, Esq

Attorney & Mediator

CSS Pickleball courts

Ron Cohen at the head of the table studying with KOT members

Celebrating TBZ’s History

BY CHANA R. KOTZIN

On Friday, January 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Zion, Rabbi Brent Gutmann will unveil the National Historic Register plaque in a ceremony to celebrate the synagogue’s history. This event is part of a relaunch of the Cofeld Judaic Museum that will be opening at Temple Beth Zion in Spring 2023.

The Temple Beth Zion Sanctuary and building complex on Delaware Avenue was dedicated in 1967. Designed by the architect Max Abramowitz and with windows created by the artist Ben Shahn, this unique building design turned fifty and became eligible for a National Historic Register listing in 2017.

SUNY Distinguished Professor of Fine Arts, Frank Kowsky researched and wrote an application for its historic register listing. Author of The Best Planned City in the World: Olmsted, Vaux, and the Buffalo Park System (2013) and, Buffalo Architecture: A Guide (1981) among many other books and articles, Professor Kowsky had long admired the building. His report secured the Beth Zion listing in 2018. The current Cofeld Museum Committee obtained an historic marker plaque through a grant program under the auspices of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation.

Chana R. Kotzin, PhD. Is Director of the Jewish Buffalo History Center and Benjamin and Dr. Edgar R. Cofeld Judaic Museum Curator and Historian.

Temple Beth Zion presents

"Jews in the News"

A Woman’s Work of Heart & Soul 2

On Sunday, November 27, the TELLL Fund sponsored “A Woman’s Work of Heart and Soul #2” - a day of music, movement, and inspiration. Women and girls of all ages were inspired to sing and dance, move, and perform with instruments. Co-sponsors for the event included: The Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, Buffalo Jewish Federation, Cultural Arts at The JCC and The JCC of Greater Buffalo. Here are a few of the pictures from the fun-filled day.

The TELLL Fund, a 501(c)3 with Jewish Philanthropies, in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Samuel Shatkin provides cultural and educational events for Jewish Western New York. Contributions of any amount are greatly appreciated so the fund can provide quality programming for Western New Yorkers. Feel free to reach out at telllfund@gmail.com or visit telllfund.org

Temple Beth Zion presents “Mazel Tots”

Come have fun at TBZ’s new Sunday morning “Mazel Tots” program! Led by Jill and Rabbi Brent Gutmann, “Mazel Tots” will include Jewish stories, crafts, music, fun, and friendship. Children up to age 5 are welcome to attend with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver.

“Mazel Tots” will take place from 10-11:00 a.m. at TBZ’s Broder Center, 700 Sweet Home Road, Amherst beginning in January 2023. Sessions will be held January 8, February 12, March 19, April 23, and May 7.

Doors will be open on “Mazel Tots” mornings at 9:15 a.m. for free play — perfect timing for those dropping off older children at the Community Religious School.

No reservations are necessary. The cost for “Mazel Tots”, which includes all materials, is $18 per child per session or $36 per child for all 5 sessions. Request for payment will be sent following the sessions.

For more info: Beth Steinberg, Director of Member Experience, at beth@tbz.org, or 716-836-6565, ext. 131.

Cooking, Poetry, and Music at the JCC

Spotlight Concert Series

This year’s Spotlight Concert series will explore the many different styles and genres played on the piano. Over the course of three concerts, from January through March, these musical events take place in the Robert and Maxine Seller Theater at the JCC Benderson Family Building.

JCC Trip on 2/26 to Kleinhans Music Hall for The Tempest

Cultural Arts at the JCC, powered by the Buffalo Jewish Federation, is excited for the return of three popular program series this winter. Presented virtually, the Cooking Series with Chef Marshall Goldstein, makes it easy and accessible for people to join in and cook from the comfort of their own kitchen. These one-hour classes are free and open to everyone with registration. On the menu this season at 7:00 p.m.:

Jan 4 Cranberry kugel“A Good Breakfast”

Feb 1 Kreplach - appetizer or soup dumpling

March 1 Hamantaschen“The festival of Queen Esther”

March 29 Passover SpecialPesach Layer Cake

The JCC Jewish Poetry Series, hosted by Philip Terman and Baruch November, will include monthly readings from January through May, featuring different acclaimed Jewish poets each month representing poetry’s enormous richness and variety. We are pleased to announce the following line-up of poets:

Jan 12 Jessica Jacobs, Joy Ladin, Jared Harel

Feb 9 Eve Grubin, Michael Mark, Grace Schulman

March 9 Charles Fishman, Paul Hostovsky, Deena November

April 20 Joan Larkin, Anne Marie Macari, Philip Terman

May 19 Rodger Kamenetz, Alan Shapiro, Jane Shore

Kicking-off the series on January 10 at 7:00 p.m. is Buffalo musician Joe Rozler, specializing in pop, rock, and jazz styles on the piano. Joe studied piano and voice at Fredonia School of Music. In 2008, he was inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame. In his decadeslong music career, Joe’s music has been heard in hundreds of advertising jingles, soundtracks for video games and movies. He’s served as a music arranger and session musician on records by Goo Goo Dolls, 10,000 Maniacs and others.

Join the JCC on February 26 for a unique experience to Kleinhans Music Hall for a production of The Tempest, William Shakespeare’s tumultuous play of betrayal, love, and forgiveness.

On February 14, Ann Phillippone will be featured. Ann is a solo pianist and singer of New Orleans-style barrelhouse, boogie, blues, jazz, and originals. She graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo with a Master of Arts in Music and Art History and found Buffalo to be a great place to live with a thriving music scene.

Concluding the series on March 14 is Jimmy Berger, a 21-year-old classical pianist from Buffalo. He began studying piano at Buffalo Suzuki Strings when he was 7, and now attends the Bard College Conservatory of Music dualdegree program. Jimmy has performed widely in the Buffalo area, including concerts with Buffalo Suzuki Strings, the Chromatic Club, and at various senior living centers. At Bard, he has played with the conservatory orchestra in productions of Copland’s Billy the Kid and Strauss’ opera Salome.

Programs are free and open to the Community. Registration is required at www.jccbuffalo.org . Questions? Contact Katie Wzontek at kwzontek@ jccbuffalo.org

Performed with the imaginative and inventive score written by Jean Sibelius, this special performance is a collaborative production between the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Irish Classical Theater. The music is said to display an astounding richness of imagination and inventive capacity, and is considered by some as one of Sibelius’s greatest achievements.

Participants are asked to meet at the JCC Benderson Building at 12:15 p.m. The group will travel by bus to Kleinhans Music Hall for a very special of Pre-show talk with JoAnn Falletta, conductor, and Fortunato Pezimenti, director, in the Mary Seaton Room. As

part of this special group price, one can enjoy desserts and drinks following the event before returning to the JCC. Registration required at jccbuffalo. org by January 24. Space is limited. JCC members $80 | Community members $100.

JCC Film Festival Screens in March

The JCC has announced its 38th Annual Buffalo International Jewish Film Festival will be hybrid this year with in-person screenings at the Amherst Dipson Theater, an opening and closing special event, and virtual screenings and talkbacks with guest speakers and a live musical performance by the Buffalo Philharmonic Chamber Chorus!

The Festival will run Wednesday, March 8 – Sunday, March 26. Check the JCC website for a list of featured films and a full schedule of screenings. Single and All Access tickets available. JCC members save 25%.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact Katie Wzontek at kwzontek@jccbuffalo.org

Chef Marshall Goldstein

Ann Phillippone

Tu

BY ROBIN KURSS

Learn all you can about the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to make your home, Synagogue and business more energy efficient, reduce your carbon footprint and save money. The Inflation Reduction Act Summary Page: congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5376. The IRA discussion (discusses the savings and benefits): youtube.com/watch?v=DkB1aKq9BbM. IRA Savings Calculator and other information: rewiringamerica.org.

Support and engage with one or more of the Jewish Environmental organizations that are doing amazing work to mitigate climate change and keep our water clean: dayenu.org, hazon.org, coejl.org (Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life), aytzim.org (NY-based), jewishclimate. org (Jewish Climate Action Network), jewishearthalliance.org (policy-based), repairthesea.org (focus on water), rac.org (Reform Movement Climate Covenant campaign)

Commit to a more plant based diet to reduce the amount of land, chemicals, water and energy that go into factory farms and to reduce animal suffering. Both results reflect Jewish values.

Make sure your Synagogue and home have recycling receptacles and that there is a designated person responsible for it going to the right place. Learn what is acceptable in your municipality.

Start planning for more native plants in your garden to support bees, butterflies and birds. You can find expertise and variety at: amandasgarden. com (near Rochester, online ordering too); urbanroots.org (co-op in Buffalo); lockwood’s.com (Hamburg) lynn@lessonsfromnature.biz (consulting, springtime native plant sale in East Aurora).

Where in JBFLO

Jewish Community Organizations in Western New York

Buffalo Jewish Federation

338 Harris Hill Rd. – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221 716-463-5050 buffalojewishfederation.org

Rob Goldberg - CEO & Executive Director Margie Bryen - President

Buffalo Vaad of Kashrus

49 Barberry Lane Williamsville, NY 14221 716-534-0230 bvkkosher.com buffalo@yahoo.com, bvkkosher@gmail.com Michael Paskowitz - President

Center for Jewish Life

Suburbs: 757 Hopkins Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-639-7600 jewishbuffalo.com

Rabbi Laizer & Chani Labkovski Downtown: 1016 Lafayette Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209 716-545-6806

Rabbi Mendy & Chaya Mushka Labkovski

Chabad House of Buffalo 2450 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068 716-688-1642 chabadbuffalo.com Rabbi Moshe Gurary

Chai Early Childhood Center 757 Hopkins Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-580-4600 chainursery.com Chani Labkovski - Director

Community Religious School (CRS) 4660 Sheridan Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 716-574-6016 BuffaloCRS@gmail.com Einav Symons - Director

Department of Jewish Thought

712 Clemens Hall - University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY 14260 716-645-3695

jewish-studies@buffalo.edu jewishstudies.buffalo.edu

Dr. Noam Pines - Chair

Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies 2640 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068 716-204-1133 jewishphilanthropies.org

Irv Levy - Executive Director Daniel Kester - President

Hadassah

2640 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068 716-929-6504

buffalohadassah@gmail.com

Frima Ackerhalt and Phyllis Steinberg - Co-Presidents

Hebrew Benevolent Loan Association

2640 North Forest Road in FJP offices Getzville, NY 14068 716-204-0542 wnyhbla.org Judith Katzenelson Brownstein - President

Hillel of Buffalo

Campus Center of Jewish Life 520 Lee Entrance/UB Commons Suite #101B W. Amherst, NY 14228 716-616-0083 hillelofbuffalo.org

Rabbi Sara Rich - Director Marc Adler - President

Holocaust Resource Center

338 Harris Hill Rd. – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221 hrcbuffalo.org

Lauren Bloomberg - Director of Engagement Mandy Weiss - Director of Operations Wendy Weisbrot - Chair

Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo, Inc.

Benderson Family Building 2640 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068 716-688-4033 jccbuffalo.org Mike Rawl - Executive Director Dr. Irwin Gelman - President

Holland Family Building 787 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209 716-886-3145

Jewish Community Relations Council

338 Harris Hill Rd. – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221 buffalojewishfederation.org

Mara Koven-Gelman - Senior Director Adam Fogel - Co-Chair Deborah Goldman - Co-Chair

Jewish Discovery Center 831 Maple Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-632-0467 jewishdiscovery.org Rabbi Heschel Greenberg

Jewish Family Services

Of Western New York 70 Barker Street Buffalo, NY 14209 716-883-1914 jfswny.org Molly Short Carr - CEO Harold Star - Chair

Jewish Federation Apartments

275 Essjay Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-631-8471

jewishfederationapartments.org

Kathleen Haggerty - Property Manager

Jewish Federation Cemetery Corporation, Inc.

338 Harris Hill Rd. – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221 buffalojewishfederation.org 716-463-5050

Deborah Pivarsi - Director

Jonathan Schechter - President

Kadimah kadimah.org

Reneé Lehner - Administrator

Kosher Meals on Wheels

757 Hopkins Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-639-7600

koshermow.com

Rabbi Laizer Labkovski - Director Jeffery Pasler – President

LiNK Jewish Buffalo

338 Harris Hill Rd. – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221

Mike Steklof, Ed.D. - Senior Director Brenda Feldstein - Chair

Ohr Temimim School

411 John James Audubon Parkway

W. Amherst, NY 14228 716-568-0226

ohrtemimimschool.com

Rabbi Shmuel Shanowitz - Principal Sonia Gellman Young - President

One Stop Jewish Buffalo

A free website updated weekly about all that’s happening in Jewish Buffalo onestopjewishbuffalo.com

Nathan Sull - Publisher

Aaron Sull - Editor

Weinberg Campus

2700 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068 716-639-3311 weinbergcampus.org

Robert Mayer - President & CEO Kenneth Rogers - Chairman of the Board

Western New York Synagogues and Temples

Chabad House of Buffalo (unaffiliated) 2450 North. Forest Rd, Getzville, NY 14068 716-688-1642 chabadbuffalo.com

Rabbi Moshe Gurary - Director

Congregation Beth Abraham (Conservative) 1073 Elmwood Avenue Buffalo, NY 14222 congregationbethabraham.net

Cantor Irwin Gelman

Marty Kerker - President

Congregation Havurah (Reform) 6320 Main St., Williamsville, NY 14221 716-689-8059 congregationhavurah.org info@congregationhavurah.org

Daniel Mink - President

Congregation Shir Shalom (Reform/Reconstructionist) 4660 Sheridan Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 716-633-8877 shirshalombuffalo.org

Rabbi Alexander Lazarus-Klein

Cantor Arlene Frank

Joanne Marquisee - Executive Director Todd Sugarman - President

JDC Shul (Unafilliated) 831 Maple Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-245-9520

jewishdiscovery.org

Rabbi Heschel Greenberg

Rabbi Levi Greenberg

Rabbi Yehoshua Greenberg

Kehillat Ohr Tzion (Modern Orthodox) 879 Hopkins Rd Williamsville, NY 14221 ohrtzion.org/kot

Rabbi Ori Bergman

Cheryl Stein - President

Knesset Center (Orthodox) 500 Starin Avenue Buffalo, NY 14214 716-832-5063 chabadbuffalo.com Rabbi Shmaryahu Charitonow

Saranac Synagogue (Orthodox) 85 Saranac Avenue Buffalo New York 14216 716-876-1284

saranacsynagogue.org

President - Shmuel Rashkin Vice President - Reuven Alt Gabbai David Kunkel

Temple Beth Tzedek (Conservative) 1641 North Forest Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-838-3232 btzbuffalo.org

Rabbi Adam J. Rosenbaum Cantor Mark Spindler Linda Boxer - President Kim Jones - Administrator

Temple Beth Zion (Reform)

Sanctuary: 805 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209

Offices: 700 Sweet Home Road Amherst, NY 14226 716-836-6565

tbz.org Rabbi Brent Gutmann Jeff Clark - Executive Director Ken Polk - President

Temple Beth El (Reform) 720 Ashland Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14301 716-282-2717 niagarafallstemple.com Rabbi Ellen Franke

Cantorial Soloist Barry Rose William Bell - President

Temple Hesed Abraham of Greater Jamestown (Reform)

Meeting biweekly at Jamestown, NY Lutheran Church Rabbi Allen Podet Joe Gerstel - President (716-665-2118) valprojdg@netsync.net

The Family Shul (Unaffiliated) 757 Hopkins Road Williamsville, NY 14221 Rabbi Laizer Labkovski 716-639-7600

Young Israel of Greater Buffalo (Orthodox) 105 Maple Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-634-0212

yibuffalo.org

Richard Berger and Michael PaskowitzCo-Presidents

DONATE to The Campaign for Jewish Buffalo when you Shop on Amazon

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Visit Your AmazonSmile Impact at www.smile.amazon.com to see donation information and learn more about your charity.

Remembering Helen Cooper Ablove

1925-2022

Helen Ablove died November 15. She was the wife of the late Samuel I. Ablove, mother of Elaine Ablove, Deborah (Michael) Shaw, Judith (Shlomo) Ziton, and Dr. Robert (Dr. Tova) Ablove.; and sister of the late Clare and Bert Chalmer and the late Lillian and Phil Ditkoff. This remembrance was written

Helen Cooper Ablove was the youngest daughter of two immigrants who came to the United States in their teens to escape the atrocities of Europe. Her mother, Anna, came to this country at age 16 with only love of family in her heart, and yet managed to create a legacy that reigns strong today. Her character and determination gave Helen and her sisters incredible strength and purpose.

Helen became a teacher and three months into the pregnancy with her eldest told her principal she was “with child.” His response was: “I thought there was something wrong with you. Today is your last day but you must still attend parent conferences tonight. And oh yes...please do not tell your students you are leaving. We do not want them to know there is something wrong with you.” Of course, that only spurred her on to further demonstrate the importance of not giving up.

Helen continued to work as a substitute teacher between the births of the four of us who are 13 years apart. We each watched as she was laid off and anxiously waited to learn if there would be a job for her. Our family needed her income so the stress was enormous,

but the angst did not deter her. While Business Manager for our Dad’s business she returned to school for her master’s degree. But there is more.

She prepared homemade cookies and delicious food. She bestowed a great love of vegetables on all of us. We now thank her for insisting no one eats a candy bar without sharing. Eldest Elaine regrets thinking store-bought cookies were better than those she made from scratch.

by her four children and compiled by her daughter Elaine.

Helen Ablove

Jay

Store-bought versions gave her bragging rights at school about what the family could afford. Although inaccurate, the truth was Helen’s cookies were too good to share, or rather those cookies which were left after our brother and father ate them out of the freezer.

Helen was famous for admonitions which stalled bad behavior and evoked fear.You made your bed now lie in it was one which we did not fully appreciate until grown. We learned this expression was more about how we wished to be perceived, and how our actions would reflect our presence in the world. Thanks to our mother - we each learned to be responsible, stand up for our beliefs and never give up.

and most importantly for me, someone who appreciated and encouraged my sense of humor and sarcastic wit. She always defended me when I got in trouble to the point where my dad would refer to her as my defense attorney.”

Helen was stricken with both cancer and multiple sclerosis at a relatively early age and fought them both to a standstill. We never heard her complain about either. Even in the last few years, with multiple fractures, a stroke, and several hospitalizations her main complaint was the decline of her memory and dizzying intellect.

For each of us, we had a mother who always had our backs and was the Eshet Chayil (Woman of Valor) who prepared the Sabbath and holiday meals but in truth stood above others because of her conviction, strength of character, and love of Judaism.

Daphne Estelle Ostrick Robinson, daughter of Henry and Rene Ostrick, was born on January 25, 1935, in London England. Mrs. Robinson, who was living in Aldea Green, passed away in Brandon, Florida, at the age of 87 on November 15, 2022. She was previously married to the late Myles Mullman. Her late husband, Gordon Robinson, of Buffalo NY, passed away in 2008.

Daphne is survived by her children, son, Roy Mullman (Cassandra Hopkins), step children, Michael Robinson (Jill), Scott Robinson (Patty), Jody Robinson Keegan and previous daughter-in-law Nan Sarles Mullman.

Her grandchildren are Risa (Josh Philipson), Sam (Blayke Mullman), Brooke (David Weinstein), Sabrina (Evan Gerardo), Brett Robinson, Matthew Robinson, Alison Robinson, Rachael Keegan, Ryan Keegan and Emily Keegan.

Daphne’s great-grandchildren are Palmer Philipson, Blair Philipson, Violet Mullman and Towns Mullman. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law Neville and Lynn Ostrick, nephew Gary Ostrick (Karen) and Jeffrey Ostrick (Erin).

In Remembrance

Our Mom flew to Israel in her 90s to share the joy of watching her granddaughter marry. Her 90s did not immediately stall her ability to be an inspiration along with evoking fear. She lovingly gave guilt like no other human being. She continued to educate herself through book groups, volunteerism at our synagogue, and through weekly bridge games with lifelong friends. We have always been thankful for how she found time to model the importance of surrounding yourself with great friends.

Our brother writes, “She was my best friend growing up which meant countless scrabble and card games, long walks, trips to museums, galleries, and zoos,

She was beautiful inside and out. We thank her and our father for demonstrating the importance of loving relationships. They were married to one another for 64 years. They taught us that family was the place in which we would receive unconditional love and acceptance. We are each keenly aware of the loving bond they shared and are grateful for the affection they showered on us. Familial love has continued to be lovingly handed down by each of us to our significant others and our children.

Helen Cooper Ablove’s legacy of strength, love, and devotion is shared by 19 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends. All of us have come to appreciate how lucky we are to have had such a wonderful mother in our lives. There is profound sadness over her passing however, we will find comfort in our memories and continued love for her and our father.

Daphne was a store manager at Kleinhans, men’s shop in Buffalo, NY in the 1980s and she was a personal shopper at Neiman Marcus, in Buffalo and Scottsdale, AZ. She retired from Neiman Marcus after a long and illustrious career from the 1980s until 2001.

Services were held at Segal Funeral Home in Tampa Florida. Graveside Services were conducted at Jewish Memorial Gardens in November at New Rodeph Shalom Cemetery in Tampa Florida. The family requests that donations be sent to the American Cancer Society.

Philip Abramowitz

Jonathan Adel

Renee Rosnar Berzon

Joel Bookbinder Emily Edelstein

Rose Eisenberg

Sheila Karstadt

Julie Babat Kingsley

Dr. Jack Lippes

Allan B. Peita Bernie Schuller Jerome Schweitzer Joyce Seitz Dorothy Shaw Robert A. Wels

...in truth, she stood above others because of her conviction, strength of character, and love of Judaism.

Daphne Estelle Ostrick Robinson

(NOT) THE LAST WORD Volunteer for Israel!

BY KAREN & HOWARD WISEMAN

If you would like to experience Israel in an adventurous way rather than as a tourist, consider becoming a volunteer for Volunteers for Israel (VFI). VFI works with Sar El (Service to Israel) to connect people 17 years and older to Israel through volunteer service on IDF bases alongside Israeli soldiers and other volunteers from around the world. Volunteers serve for up to three weeks providing noncombat support such as packing medical supplies, repairing machinery and equipment, and maintaining the IDF bases.

We signed up for a two-week program through VFI in early summer. Before meeting at the Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday, Nov.6th, we had no idea where in Israel we would be assigned. It wasn’t until we were literally on the bus did our madrichot (counselors) tell us of our upcoming whereabouts for the next two weeks. We were headed to Army base Michve Alon (MA) near the Sea of Galilee. Upon arrival, we could see the beautiful mountains surrounding us and the sea in the distance.

Once off the bus, we were shown our bunks, women first and men second on opposite sides of the base. Our spartan accommodations included an army cot with small mattress and a locker in which to store our belongings. Karen shared her bunk with four other women ranging in age from 17 to 86. They came from Australia, Israel, and the US. Howard shared his bunk with men from Finland, Poland, Canada and the US.

Our work on base either consisted of volunteers sorting and organizing supplies and uniforms in shipping containers or sorting and organizing army uniforms in the uniform office. Our day was very regimented including specific times for meals, flag raising and work. Our week ended on Thursday afternoon when we were taken by bus to Tel Aviv to celebrate Shabbat and return to base on Sunday. The food was delicious and reflected typical Mediterranean, Israeli cuisine. All meals observed the laws of kashruth

Michve Alon is an educational army base rather than strategic and militaristic. It is geared for chadash

olim, new arrivals and also Druizim and Bedouins. For each of these groups, they stay a total of three months to receive basic training and a two- month Ulpan to improve their Hebrew language skills. MA also welcomes young people who did not finish their high school education. They receive intensive classes for five months in order to complete the required educational coursework. MA gives them a fresh start for life where they are treated without judgement and accepted as equals with their peers. The Army works very hard to integrate them into Army society. Sometimes, the Army is considered the place of last resort for youngsters who have had challenging

all the time to help everyone meet their goals. After their short time at MA, they receive orders to go to a regular military base wherever there is a need in the IDF.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Israeli-born Arabs who have signed up, and they too start off at MA. More Haredi are entering the Army as well and they too are at MA because they become pariahs in their own community.

Speaking of the soldiers, they were a real highlight of the experience on base. Since most of them are Chadash Olim, they are from countries all over the world, but so young! Many of these kids are as young as 19, 20 and 21, away from their families for up to two years for women, two years, 8 months

Karen & Howard Wiseman volunteering in Israel at Michve Alon Army Base

For Julia’s family, early screening for autism made a lifetime of di erence. Find out more at ScreenForAutism.org

for men. Most of them are classified as Lone Soldiers as they do not have immediate family in Israel. Our three madrichot, all Lone Soldiers hailed from Charleston, SC, Paris, France and Serbia. In the VFI literature, we are encouraged to sit with the kids during meal time so they can practice their English and we can get to know them. It also gave us the opportunity to hear their passion and drive to make Israel a home of peace.

The adventure had many pros and cons for both of us. To be sure, one of the major highlights was the opportunity to talk to the young soldiers. One gets a better understanding of the country when speaking and listening to the young people serving. They revealed their love and loyalty to Israel and their commitment to protect the country at all costs. The gratitude they expressed to us was palpable and we thought maybe this is our way of performing tikkun olam to a country we love as well.

Karen and Howard Wiseman are active retirees who devote time, energy and treasure to many tikkun olam opportunities in WNY.

THE MORE YOU UNDERSTAND HER WORLD, THE MORE POSSIBILITIES YOU SEE.

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