Tuesday, September 24 | UB Center for the arts Tuesday, September 24 | UB Center for the arts
President’s Message
Mission to Israel 2024
Our Federation’s Solidarity Mission to Israel, held in early June, was an immensely enriching experience for the dozen Buffalonians fortunate to participate. Despite our brief stay, we packed our four days with about eight days’ worth of content, maximizing every moment.
Our journey evoked a spectrum of emotions: from intense to uplifting, from frustration to motivation, from educational to personal. We engaged in diverse activities, from volunteering as farmhands and packing pantry items to visiting significant sites like Hostage Square, Nova, and Mount Herzl cemetery. But above all, it was the personal connections that left a lasting impact.
The people we met expressed genuine gratitude for our solidarity, our presence in Israel, and understanding the crucial role of financial support from organizations like the Jewish Federations of North America and Jews worldwide. From soldiers to displaced citizens to those directly affected by recent events, their determination to uphold Israel as a Jewish State was palpable.
Most remarkable was witnessing their unwavering hope amidst challenges, their commitment to defending their homeland, and their fervent belief in the freedom for all Jews to openly celebrate their religion.
Our mission concluded with renewed energy and determination to share our experiences widely. We are planning the next solidarity mission now - please let Stacey Block (stacey@buffalojewishfederation.org) know if you are interested in joining us.
Marjorie Bryen, President, BJF
Join us at the 2025 Campaign for Jewish Buffalo Kickoff event on Tuesday, September 24 at UB Center for the Arts as we honor two incredible leaders, hear powerful impact stories, and celebrate the future direction for the Buffalo Jewish Federation.
2 President’s Message
3 The 2025 Campaign for Jewish Buffalo Kick Off Event celebrates Hadar Borden and Marni Marciano 4-5 East Side Garden Walk & Summer Celebration - August 5th!
7 JCRC- One Vote at a Time 8-9 HERO Ars & Writing Winners 10 Hillel: Welcome Ryan Piken and Dr. Mike Steklof!
LiNK Learning Experiences 2024-2025
FJP: A Letter from Jeff Goldberg
Life & Legacy® Conference
JFS: Matzah Ball
TBZ: Welcome Cantor Susan Lewis-Friedman!
20-21 Community Happenings
22 KOT: Welcome Rabbi Schachter!
24-25 Farm to Table & Dining Guide
26 5 Ways to enjoy summer fun!
27 CRS: Register now for 2024-25
28 Organizations & Synagogues Listings
30-31 In Loving Memory: Remembering Ruth Lansing
32 Not the Last Word By Rabbi Ori Bergman
Published by Buffalo Jewish Federation 338 Harris Hill Rd., Suite 108B
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President Marjorie Bryen
Chief Executive Officer Rob Goldberg
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The Jewish Journal reserves the right to cancel any advertisement at any time. The Buffalo Jewish Federation and Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. are not liable for the content or errors appearing in the advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied. The Jewish Journal does not assume responsibility for the kashrut of any product or service advertised in this paper. Editorials, columns, advertisements, agency reports and other outside articles do not necessarily represent the views of the newspaper or the Buffalo Jewish Federation, but rather express the view of the writer.
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Marjorie Bryen
The Buffalo Jewish Federation Is a proud member of the Jewish Federations of North America and the American Jewish Press Association
The 2025 Campaign for Jewish Buffalo Kick Off Event Celebrates Hadar Borden and Marni Marciano
Tickets for the Kickoff are $80/person. Kindly RSVP by September 10. To attend, a primary individual minimum $100 gift to the 2025 Annual Campaign is requested.
RSVP online at buffalojewishfederation.org/ kickoff or call Stacey Block, Senior Director of Operations at 716-463-5053.
Hadar Borden
To Receive Ann Holland Cohn Community Impact Award
Hadar Borden, director of the University at Buffalo’s Startup and Innovation Collaboratory powered by Blackstone LaunchPad, will be honored this fall with the prestigious Ann Holland Cohn Community Impact Award. Established in 2018, the purpose of the Cohn Award is to celebrate a person, couple or family who leads with courage and determination and has made a significant impact in the greater Buffalo community (not necessarily limited to service to Federation or one of Federation’s beneficiary agencies). The Cohn Award is among Federation’s most distinguished honors, and previous awardees include Larry Levite, z”l, Deborah Goldman, Lana Benatovich, and Dr. Gale Burstein.
Marni Marciano To Receive Kahn
Emerging Leadership Award
In addition to leading the Collaboratory, a campus-based entrepreneurship and innovation program, Hadar serves as the director of the WNY Prosperity Fellowship Program, a leadership development program, generously funded by The Prentice Family Foundation that seeks to recruit and retain entrepreneurial-minded students to contribute to economic development in Western New York. Prior to her current roles, Hadar served for eight years as the administrative director of the University at Buffalo’s Undergraduate Academies, the collaborative, interdisciplinary living-and-learning communities for undergraduates. She was formerly the assistant administrative director of the University Honors College and before that served as an assistant director in the Office of Admissions.
“We can’t think of a better recipient for this honor,” shared Federation CEO Rob Goldberg. “Hadar is an inspired leader, proud of being Jewish and of her family connection to Israel. Her passion for Jewish values guides her in working with so many students with diverse backgrounds.” A University at Buffalo alumnus, Hadar holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in geography with a concentration in international business and world trade. In 2012, Hadar was awarded the State University of New York Chancellor’s Award in Professional Service in recognition of her professional accomplishments. Additionally, she received recognition from Buffalo Business First, where she was selected as one of the Forty under 40 in 2013. In 2019, Hadar was awarded the Buffalo Jewish Federation’s Ruth & Milton Kahn Emerging Leadership Award and was honored as a Women of Influence in 2021. Moreover, her contributions were celebrated in 2022 when she was presented with the InfoTech WNY BETAS 2022 Innovative Educator Award.
On the wall in Marni Marciano’s home is a vintage gold clock that previously hung in her grandmother’s home—a homage to legacy and tradition in her new, modern kitchen. This spring, LiNK’s Leadership Council gathered around Marni’s dining room table one evening for a quarterly meeting. She told us a story about her son Max, who when he was only 7 years old, was taken aback when a classmate had made an unsavory comment about Hanukkah, yet the boy’s words landed without rebuke. Heartbroken, Marni’s eyes welled with tears as she related the experience. “We need to talk about antisemitism,” she told the Council. With tremendous dedication, Marni went on to chair the Let’s Talk About antisemitism conference in 2023. Less than six months later, Israel was viciously attacked, and incidents of antisemitism increased dramatically. Marni’s vision had been a timely inoculation and a critical segue to the Let’s Talk About Israel conference held this past April.
To know Marni is to witness the authenticity of her heartfelt resolve to make a significant impact on the world around her. That is why the Buffalo Jewish Federation is honoring her with the Ruth & Milton Kahn Emerging Leadership Award this fall.
Marni, a native Buffalonian, attended the University of Minnesota where she earned a degree in Journalism and Public Relations. She lived in Toronto before returning to Buffalo to raise her family. She has worked mostly in pharmaceutical sales before transitioning to her current role as Field Access Lead for Pfizer, working directly with families to help them access crucial medication.
Marni and her husband Armand, together with their twins Max and Sylvie, have been active members of Kehillat Ohr Tzion, where Marni served as Chair of the Youth Education Committee from 2018-2020. Marni has also served in several roles at LiNK Jewish Buffalo including Chair of PJ Library from 2020-2021, Vice Chair of LiNK from 2021-2023, and currently as LiNK’s chair.
“Marni’s professional and volunteer resume is not the only reason Federation is honoring her,” comments Kirstie Henry, a member of Federation’s Board of Governors. “It is also for her alternative resume—the story of all the other lessons of her life and the experiences she has accumulated, through which she leads and inspires us with kindness, tenacity, and courage.”
“I recall feeling lost in the toddler section of Target one day, looking for an emergency set of pajamas for our granddaughter,” continues Kirstie, “when Marni suddenly appeared out of nowhere. She’s like Wonder Woman that way. After we visited for a bit, she smiled and guided me to the clearance rack. ‘You can probably find something there that will work!’”
On Israeli TV, Wonder Woman is known as “Eshet Chayil,” which translates to “A Woman of Valor.” Indeed, Marni is a woman of strength and fortitude, whose worth is far beyond that of rubies or pearls. Yasher koach, Marni, for your exceptional contributions to Jewish Buffalo!
East Side Garden Walk Returns July 21
The Buffalo Jewish Federation and its interfaith partners are thrilled to host the 3rd annual Interfaith East Side Garden Walk and Community Tour. On Sunday, July 21, we will embark on a day filled with lovely gardens, community building and learning. The East Side Garden Walk, currently in its 7th year, is a unique opportunity to showcase the historic neighborhoods, beautiful gardens, and ongoing revitalization of Buffalo’s East Side communities.
Last year our Interfaith East Side Garden Walk and Community Tour brought together over 80 participants from Congregation Shir Shalom, First Shiloh Baptist Church, Temple Beth Zion, Trinity Episcopal Church, Westminster Presbyterian Church, in addition to friends of the Federation. Traveling together on two school buses, participants
community gardens. One participant remarked, “Having an interfaith bus tour was awesome! I tremendously enjoyed meeting people and enjoyed the conversations. The community garden projects were quite inspiring.”
The registration deadline for this year’s tour is Friday, July 12. Visit bit.ly/ GARDENWALK24 to find out more and
This Year’s Summer Celebration to Benefit Secure Jewish Buffalo
The Summer Celebration golf tournament returns to Transit Valley Country Club on Monday, August 5. This year’s event will be hosted by the Buffalo Jewish Federation, with all net proceeds supporting Secure Jewish Buffalo.
“We’re grateful to Temple Beth Zion and Congregation Shir Shalom for turning the event over to the Federation,” said Randi Morkisz, Federation’s Major Gifts Officer, who is coordinating the celebration. “The day will provide a great opportunity for the entire community to have fun for a very good cause!”
This year’s tournament sponsors are Aesthetic Associates Centre, Shatkin First, and Tres Aurae Spa. “Sponsoring Shatkin, “Our mother Joan founded the event nearly 25 years ago when it was held at the former Westwood Country
From May 12-16, Jewish Buffalo was privileged to host three exceptional young Israelis. Our guests, Tal, Or and Evyatar, came to Buffalo as part of a program of The Jewish Agency for Israel called “Soldiers in Uniform.” While here, they enjoyed time for respite (from their roles in active and reservist duty with the Israel Defense Forces), helped to lead our community Yom Hazikaron
In addition to a delicious lunch, 18 holes of golf, cocktails and dinner, the event will feature a new putting contest and great raffle prizes. Non-golfers can enjoy an Olmsted in Buffalo bus tour led by Ken Rogers. The tour will include a behind-the-scenes look at the former Buffalo Psychiatric Center. “I love that Federation has made the tour possible,” remarked tour leader Ken Rogers. “I lead similar tours by bike every summer and look forward to sharing the unique history of Buffalo’s beautiful Olmsted Parks and Parkways system with those who join me.”
The Summer Celebration is the only golf tournament in WNY that benefits the entire Jewish community. The net proceeds will be invested in Federation’s expanded security efforts led by Susan
DeMari, and every dollar raised will be matched through a Jewish Federation’s of North America LiveSecure grant. “In addition to raising much needed funds,” added Susan DeMari, “we will also be honoring both the Town of Amherst Police Department and the City of Buffalo Police Department during dinner. Their partnership, in collaboration with so many other law enforcement partners, has been extraordinary, and we look forward to the opportunity to thank them and acknowledge all that they do to ensure a safe and secure Jewish Buffalo.”
For more information on sponsorship opportunities, signing up to golf, join the tour, or attend for cocktails and dinner, visit buffalojewishfederation. org/summer-celebration.
Federation Awarded New Security Grant
Buffalo Jewish Federation has been awarded a new $60,000 security grant from Jewish Federations of North America. The grant provides resources to ensure additional security measures for early childhood programs throughout Jewish Buffalo and additional trainings. The award is made possible thanks to the generosity of the Tepper Foundation.
It was the spring of 2020, and a member of an area synagogue was looking for a way to help encourage civic engagement, at a time when it didn’t feel safe to leave your house. She had heard about a successful postcard writing campaign where you write personal, handwritten postcards to encourage people to register to vote and notify them of upcoming elections.
Now over four years later the effort is still going strong and is currently led by Jessica Muenter. Jessica notes that this work is an example of Tikkun Olam, which loosely means ‘repairing the world’.
Working with the non-partisan 501(c)(3) organization Center for Common Ground, Jessica and her team of volunteers have sent thousands of postcards over the last four years to unregistered voters. Each card notifies the potential voter of upcoming elections
Tikkun Olam - Repairing the World One Vote at a Time
and provides important information about the voting process. One postcard writer, Carol Sellers, reflected upon the work: “I have been writing postcards since the original campaign; my mother impressed upon me from a young age
the importance of voting and it feels good thinking that the postcards we are writing encourage those who feel disenfranchised that their vote matters.”
And, while phone banking and texting are also important ways to disseminate information about elections, the State of Pennsylvania conducted a study in 2015 that found that sending postcards to eligible, yet unregistered, voters increased registration rates by 15%. For many people, especially those without computers or phones, postcards are a personal reminder of our responsibility to make a better world for ourselves and others, and that every vote counts.
Please contact Jessica Muenter at mrsmuntie@gmail.com if you are interested in getting involved.
Jessica Muenter
HERO Celebrates Arts & Writing Contest Winners
The theme of HERO’s (Holocaust Education Resource Organization) annual Arts & Writing Contest this year was the 85th Anniversary of the Kindertransport. The Kindertransport, German for “children’s transport” was an organized effort by British organizations and others to save Jewish children following Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass. This year, nearly 150 WNY students in grades 7-12 submitted entries for the contest. Each student responded to one of the following prompts through art or writing:
“Describe the challenge faced by the parents or children of the Kindertransport or explore the theme of loss experienced by either the parents or children of the Kindertransport.”
These winning art pieces were selected by the judges to receive the following Eugene Finton Scholars Fund Awards and the Mary Deane Freeland Best in Show Award.
7th grade
1st place: ADDISON ILLG (Orchard Park Middle School)
8th grade
1st place: FARA HOSSAIN (Mill Middle School)
2nd place: JULIA NICE (Orchard Park Middle School)
10th grade
1st place: MARY SAPER (Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart)
12th grade 1st place: OLIVIA BURKHARDT (Alexander Central School)
Best in Show FARAZ HOSSAIN (Mill Middle School)
Broken Hearts and Strong Souls
DAVID JOHNSON Barker Central School- 10th Grade
Invasion and chaos bring separation and fear.
Packing and deciding lead to loss and confusion.
Goodbyes and sorries bring sadness and tears.
The train whistle splits the Air
The wheels Chugging and tracks Screeching.
New environments and new people cause anxiety and unease.
Men and women lose their love and life.
Boys and girls lose family and friends.
Searching and shouting brought destruction and theft.
Children scared and screaming reminds them of the tracks screeching to a halt for the bad men.
Kapos and Germans destroy and steal.
Greed and hatred without thought or remorse.
People and children slaughtered little cattle and lambs.
Fire and smoke infect the air with sadness and disgust.
Remorse and acceptance was forgotten and lost.
Children were gathered and many were lost.
Angry Germans and scared parents left broken-hearted children lost.
Questions and confusion for what without answer or reason.
Hitler and soldiers- pure evil and poorly guided souls.
Kindertransport and rescue but at what cost?
Most siblings are done with no idea of their fate.
Risks taken, prices made, lives taken non that shouldn’t have started.
Children were afraid but they have strong souls.
Respect for the strong and remembrance of the undeserved deaths.
The following writing pieces were selected by the judges to receive the Mary Deane Freeland Best in Show Awards.
Tears to Cry
ISABELLA RIVERA Orchard Park Middle School-7th Grade
This can’t be happening, I think as I stand next to my family, tears streaming down my face.
The train slows to a stop in front of me and dozens of other families with children who are getting Ready to board it.
I think back to yesterday, a perfectly normal day. I was drawing in my old beat-up Notebook when I heard Ma call from downstairs, “Caroline!” Her voice floated up from the kitchen. “Coming”, I replied. I quickly closed the worn cover of my notebook and raced downstairs. I stopped abruptly when I saw my parents’ faces. They were dead serious. The last time I had seen my parents’ faces this serious was a little less than a year ago after Kristallnacht when they shared the news about Hilda’s father.
Hilda was my best friend; her father was one of the 91 people killed on Kristallnacht. Soon after he died, Hilda and her mother fled Germany on their way to England. My 7-year-old sister Charlotte was already sitting at the kitchen table, her usual energetic and carefree mood dampened. She could tell this was serious too. “Girls”, Ma began, “We have thought long and hard about this.” She started tearing up so my father took over. “There is a train that will be leaving tomorrow,” he took a deep breath before he continued, “It will be taking children here from Germany to Great Britain to keep them safe from the Nazis.” He spit out their name with disgust before his face grew sad again. “We have decided it would be best if you went on the train.” Charlotte burst into tears while I tried to choke back tears of my own. “You guys are coming with us, right?” Charlotte asked. A tear rolled down Ma’s face as she wrapped Charlotte into a hug. “I’m sorry honey but we can’t, we aren’t allowed on the train,” she whispered. My tears finally spilled over, “Do we have to go?” I sobbed. My father’s eyes were glassy. “We want you guys to stay safe, and this is the only way we can assure your safety. When you get off the train there will be a family waiting for you there, you will live with them for a while until your mother and I can get to you.” He said it with confidence, but I knew there was no guarantee that we would see each other again.
I went upstairs to my bedroom that night, with my eyes red and puffy from crying, to go pack. We weren’t allowed to bring a lot of personal belongings, so I just packed my notebook and pencil along with a couple pairs of clothes. I then took a deep breath and climbed into bed. I fell asleep thinking about how it would be the last night I ever slept in my own bed.
Now I am standing with my parents and my sister ready to board the train in front of us and leave our whole life in Germany behind. I turn back to my parents who are holding back tears. My father puts a hand on my shoulder staring into my eyes before pulling me into a hug. “I love you so much,” he whispers, “You are so brave and strong. Take care of your sister for me, yeah?” I nod as I pull away, then I go to hug Ma. She returns it with a bone crushing hug of her own. “I love you so much, never forget that.” She tells me. The hug ends too soon as we pull back and start to board the train.
As the train is starting to chug away, I realize my father is right, it’s my responsibility to take care of Charlotte now. I quickly wipe my tears, wrap my arm around Charlotte, and lean my head on Charlotte’s while my other hand clutches the locket around my neck that holds my parents’ photographs. The train starts to pick up speed and we look back to see our parents’ receding figures waving to us. Finally, the train turns around a bend and our parents disappear from our sights. I take a deep shaky breath and settle down. Charlotte quickly cries herself to sleep beside me. I turned away from where we last saw our parents, take out my notebook and start to draw. Trying to forget about what we are leaving behind and focus on what we are gaining.
9,354
KENDALL MILLER Clarence Middle School- 8th Grade
9,354. 9,354. 9,354.
A number that most see in large scales of events.
Days you have walked the earth, or even the number of days you have taken breaths
For the children in Britain, this was the number they saw of themselves.
9,354 children were sent to Britain to be placed within the Kindertransport.
9,354 children that had uncertainty that their own life was not in danger.
9,354.
You stare attentively at the number,
A number of students you could see attending a college, No, a number that defines the future of someone younger than a middle school student.
Fostered and moved, traveled and arranged by family.
Violence never so loud
Silence never so quiet.
Help never so far off the beaten track that a young child stands on, Hoping one day they will see someone they know again.
But danger never so immediate, never so easy to reach
And freedom, never so small in scale that even the word itself is almost meaningless.
Tired, fatigued, and filled with exhaustion.
Sons, daughters, brother, sisters, Nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors,
Split up like an overused string.
Thread by thread picked apart by hate, 9,354 of them wait.
Placed into new lives belonging to others, Where some will bluntly receive a new mother.
A child who just wishes to be smothered,
Another who wishes to be home under their covers.
Undiscovered some still wait,
Not even knowing the number of the date.
Why? Many ask.
Why me?
Why my family, who has never done anything to upset the peace of others, Why my family of good people who never wanted to hurt their brothers?
Why were such hateful beings given the authority to create such great pain for others?
A pain that for some reason, many never heard.
But to be heard is for not others to hear,
To be heard is being able to walk without fear.
Refugees, they called those poor children.
Children who were treated like dirt, Far less than what they are really worth.
But not only 9354 children.
Parents of the young souls who never knew what freedom felt like.
To be able to walk with your head held so high,
So proud of where they’ve come.
Whom they come from.
9,354.
9,354.
of Buffalo
BY IRIS DANZIGER, M.D.
The past academic year has been challenging on college campuses for Jewish students, both here in Buffalo and worldwide. Just weeks into the school year, Hamas’ attack on Israel, October 7th, sparked an unprecedented level and intensity of antisemitism on college campuses.
Hillel of Buffalo is dedicated to being a hub for Jewish life at the University at Buffalo. Grounded in Jewish values, Hillel fosters a vibrant Jewish community on campus, encouraging students to engage in meaningful experiences centered around Jewish life, learning, and connection to Israel. At Hillel, students find not only a space for spiritual and intellectual growth but also a place to celebrate Jewish culture and build lasting friendships.
Hillel of Buffalo Update
Ensuring the safety and well-being of our Jewish students is our utmost priority. Throughout the academic year, we actively engaged with university leadership to advocate for the needs of Jewish students and to create an environment where they
felt secure and embraced within the campus community.
This summer, we are transitioning to a new staff team in partnership with the Buffalo Jewish Federation. Dr. Mike Steklof has been named Interim Campus Director while also continuing as the Senior Director of LiNK Jewish Buffalo at the Buffalo Jewish Federation. We are grateful to the Buffalo Jewish Federation for providing us with such a capable leader.
We are also excited to announce that Ryan Piken has been selected as the 2024-2026 Hillel of Buffalo Springboard Fellow. Originally from Westchester, Ryan’s Jewish journey began her freshman year at the University at Buffalo. Amidst her quest for community, Ryan discovered Hillel, and soon became a student leader. She graduated in May with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Media Studies. With an unbridled passion for music, Ryan can engage in endless discussions about favorite bands, artists, and concerts. Beyond music, she finds joy in exploring Buffalo, spending time with dogs, hitting the gym,
reveling in nature, and indulging in crafting pursuits.
Ryan begins her new role in July and is eager to foster connections and cultivate a sense of belonging for our students. We are in the final stages of the interview process for a new Director of Engagement and anticipate making an announcement soon.
Iris Danziger is the President of the Hillel of Buffalo Board. Please reach out to Iris at danzigermd@aol.com or Mike Steklof at mike@hillelofbuffalo.org to support Hillel.
Ryan Piken
Iris Danziger & Mike Steklof
Fall 2024 Adult Learning Experiences
Belonging is a core value of LiNK Jewish Buffalo. Individuals of all abilities, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender expressions are welcome. Please share your specific access needs with us as part of the registration process and we’ll ensure, to the best of our ability, that your experience is meaningful.
LiNK Jewish Buffalo offers a variety of semester-long and year-long learning experiences for adults. Details about each class, cohort or learning experience can be found below. For more information contact Mike Steklof at mike@buffalojewishfederation.org.
Adult Hebrew (Virtual Classes)
1st Semester: classes run 9/4 – 12/18 Fee: $215/for each semester (book purchased separately)
Location: Zoom
Hebrew Coordinator: Zahava Fried
Beginners
Wednesdays, Time to be determined with students
No experience necessary. This course is for beginners interested in learning the Hebrew alphabet, grammar, and vocabulary with a focus on reading prayers for Shabbat, synagogue services, and traditional blessings.
Intermediate Wednesdays, Time to be determined with students
This course is to further develop skills for those who already know the Hebrew alphabet and can read several words and phrases. The focus of this course is on Hebrew prayer.
Advanced
Wednesdays, Time to be determined with students
This advanced level Hebrew course is for those who can read and understand simple Biblical and Modern Hebrew phrases. The primary focus of this class is conversational Hebrew.
Intro to Judaism
Facilitated by local clergy and educators, this exceptional course is designed for: individuals interested in conversion, individuals (Jewish and non-Jewish) interested in learning more about Jewish religion and history, and couples of multiple faiths. This course will explore the Jewish
calendar and life cycles, worship and beliefs, the Bible, Rabbinic literature, antisemitism, the Holocaust, Zionism and the State of Israel.
Sundays 9:30 - 11:15 am 9/15/24 – 1/12/25
Location: Congregation Shir Shalom Fee: $142/semester course (books purchased separately)
GatheringCohorts
Women Gathering
Women Gathering, facilitated by Miriam Abramovich, Erin Casper and friends, is a monthly opportunity for women ages 30-55 to gather over food and drink for informal conversation, through a Jewish lens, about issues that matter to us the most such as business trends, gender equality, health, antisemitism and more.
7 gatherings throughout the year, begins September 18
Men Gathering: New Cohort
Men Gathering, facilitated by Rob Goldberg and Rabbi Brent Gutmann, is a monthlyopportunityformenages30-55 to gather over food and drink for casual conversation about issues and events thatmattersuchasfatherhood,politics, Jewish culture,and antisemitism.
5 Thursdays throughout the year, beginning September 26
Wisdom of Midlife
Wisdom of Midlife is a yearlong experience for people 55+ who want to explore different ways to age with curiosity, purpose, and soul. Inspired by Jewish wisdom, texts, and traditions, we will enjoy deep and open conversations about this extraordinary time of our lives.
Wednesdays 7-8:30 pm, Starts 9/11
Fall 2024
Fall 2024 Teen Learning Experiences
Jewish Teen Initiative Gatherings
Offering experiences to help Buffalo’s teens (grades 8-12) authentically encounter Judaism. Experiences are designed so that Jewish teens can build their knowledge, self-esteem, leadership and life skills, and shape their identities. Questions? Contact Mike Steklof at mike@buffalojewishfederation.org.
Student to Student® Training
Through Student to Student®, Jewish students share their lived experiences as Jewish teens in order to put a human face on Judaism and dismantle antisemitism, especially in schools that lack a Jewish presence. Do you want to serve as a Student to Student® presenter this year? Participate in this training program led by area rabbis and Jewish educators to learn how to share your Jewish story.
Grades 10-12
Wednesday evenings, 6:30-8 pm
September 18, 25, October 9, 30, November 6, 13, 20, December 4
Cost: $95
Exploring our Roots Trip Personal Reflections
Twenty-two community members embarked on a powerful journey to Poland and Austria this April in exploration of their ancestral roots. Their itinerary included visits to significant historical sites, from the remnants of pre-war Jewish communities to the solemn memorials of the Holocaust. In Poland, participants walked the streets of Krakow’s Jewish quarter, marveled at the historic synagogue and paid respects at Auschwitz-Birkenau. In Austria, they explored the vibrant, yet tragic past of Vienna’s Jewish community, learning about the contributions and struggles of their forebears. This trip was a deeply moving experience, offering the group a profound connection to their heritage and a greater understanding of Jewish life before and after WWII. The following are personal reflections for many of the trip participants.
Lori and Armand Morrison
The highlights of this trip for us started when Jeremy, our tour expert, shared his vision of categorizing the sites and experiences into one of three sides of a prism: Jewish life before the War, the atrocities of the Shoah, and the Future of Jewish life after the Shoah. This pre-tour framing allowed us to compartmentalize the experiences and prepare the mental and emotional strength required to absorb some difficult sights and discussions. This all included the sharing of personal family Holocaust stories from several of our fellow travelers.
One experience we will not forget was attending Friday night Shabbat services at the Rema Orthodox synagogue in Krakow. This tiny synagogue, no bigger than a house, was filled to the brim with yeshiva boys from all over the country, and young women attending various Beit Yakov schools for girls. During services, the boys and girls, separated by a mechitza, of course, were singing, dancing, and celebrating being Jewish in a way that I have never seen before. It was quite a moment and a feeling of hope for future Jewish generations.
Pam and Brian Snyder
Poland is a land of contrasts. Ancient and modern. Sweet and bitter. Destruction and rebirth. Sadly, though, antisemitism has been a constant there and remains alive (albeit more hidden).
The inspiration for this trip started as a genealogical journey. It certainly fulfilled my lifelong desire to experience the shtetl where my mother’s family
came from, and where most of them were murdered during the Holocaust. Our guide in Wolomin introduced the town as a “real life Anatevka”. I worried that our group would not find it too interesting without a personal connection. But instead, in that tiny place where Jews once thrived, we each found meaning and insight into a world that is gone forever. We were amazed
by the devotion and knowledge of our guide, a historian who grew up there. She and a few other non-Jews have dedicated a piece of their lives to understanding and remembering the Jewish history of Wołomin.
We felt deep heartache, pain and bitterness. But we also experienced many moments of joy and hope. One of the most difficult days was in Auschwitz-Birkenau. The guide that was mandated to us by Auschwitz was monotone and emotionless. The place itself is, in some ways, quite sanitized. But one cannot escape the horrors and the generational trauma the place evokes. We were physically and emotionally exhausted by the end of that day. Considering what happened there, and what happened on October 7th, it was hard not to despair. Thankfully, that evening we had dinner at the JCC of Kraków.
After the war, Poland was largely devoid of Jews But today that is slowly changing. The Kraków JCC started 16 years ago with 100 members. Now there are over 1,000 members. Jews who didn’t know they were Jewish are finding their way back. There is a cadre of non-Jewish volunteers who help the facility thrive and grow. They do it for many reasons. Some we know and others are personal. It gives us a modicum of hope for the future that the once thriving Jewish Poland, the center for Jewish life in Europe, has not completely perished from the earth.
One of the great joys for us is that several teachers from throughout WNY accompanied us on this journey. We are thankful that they will share these memories and teach the next generation the danger of being bystander and not an upstander.
Marcia Goldstein
The decision to undertake this pilgrimage was fueled by a yearning to reconnect with my roots, and to honor the resilient spirit of the ancestors of our people within the echoes of their stories. Amidst the landscapes of Poland and Austria, I found myself immersed in so many emotions, threading through the haunting remnants of history. Standing in solemn reverence at Auschwitz-Birkenau, I felt the weight of collective memory pressing upon me, a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of unspeakable tragedy. Listening to Armand Morrison read from his aunt’s book while we were there was haunting, but necessary.
This journey was so very personal, and that is what resonates with me. In every place we ventured, there were testimonials and heartfelt stories read. Although this did make it more difficult, it also made me feel so close to those who lived those stories. Amidst the somber echoes of the past, there were also moments of profound beauty and resilience. Exploring the Jewish quarters of Krakow and Vienna, I witnessed a testament to the enduring legacy of a people, whose indomitable spirit continues to thrive against all odds. This journey has left an indelible imprint on my soul, igniting a renewed sense of connection, and belonging to my heritage. I could not have imagined before I left what this trip would mean to me, and how close I would feel to those that I traveled with. I am still processing all that we faced on the trip.
Iris Danziger
Poland was once home to the largest Jewish population in the world. As I traveled through the land, I had to imagine the Jewish life that once existed and flourished there. I saw very little of that past since Jewish life was wiped out in the Shoah in a most terrible and inhumane manner. Yet there is something profoundly spiritual about visiting Poland and I did not expect to enjoy my time there. But something prompted me to further explore my identity, to breathe the same air and be in the same places of my parents and the many generations before them. Driving past my mother’s town and then past my father’s city overwhelmed me. Being in the Lodz Ghetto memorial where my mother lived until her transports to concentration camps touched the darkness of that time. Finding her name on the walls of the memorial was so very emotional; it was a profound connection
This trip could not have been as meaningful as it was without the amazing guides that took us on this uniquely Jewish journey. Each person on the trip brought to life the memories of so many, some who were lost there, or those who are now gone. The joy, warmth and support of the people I shared this emotional trip with made it better than I could have ever imagined. The biggest lessons I took with me were that we are truly a resilient people and we are strengthened by being together.
Megan Wright
As a teacher who has taught the Holocaust for over 15 years, I was beyond ecstatic and grateful to be among the educators who joined this trip. I have been fortunate to travel with students to Poland twice before, in 2013 and 2015, but this trip with was different, in a wonderfully fascinating way. I met amazing individuals and established connections that will be beneficial for years to come.
I was fully immersed in the history of the Jews in Poland and their experiences before, during, and after WWII. I was overcome with gratitude and emotion when I went to hallowed grounds with new friends, several of whom are descendants of Holocaust survivors. We witnessed cemeteries that survived the war and the Auschwitz concentration camp system.
As we toured these locations, our group focused on a common message: Bring it back to the ONE. This inspired us to bring the history to a personal level so people can learn about individual stories and experiences. In other words, put faces in people’s minds, not just the statistics, and the lessons learned from the Holocaust will hopefully resonate stronger with future generations. As I walked the grounds of Auschwitz with 2nd and 3rd generation survivors, this was the case for me; I will never forget helping my new friend find her family’s name in “The Book of Names” display. For me, the Holocaust had never felt so real, so concrete, than at that moment.
Rich Pyszczek
As an educator for more than 25 years, I have had the opportunity to attend and facilitate many professional development opportunities across the region, state, and country. What I experienced with the Buffalo Jewish Roots tour and on-site seminars in Poland and Austria was unlike anything I could have ever imagined. Nothing I have experienced before could have prepared me for the 10 days of historical travel and cultural exchange. To say this trip was life-changing would be the ultimate understatement. I have taught thousands of students and dozens of educators about Global History and Geography curriculum topics, but what we experienced first-hand was nothing like anything else I have ever done. I will share the lessons we learned during this opportunity with many more students and educators for the years to come.
Rachel Adel
There is no way I could have ever created this experience even just going on my own. To be in a recreated Auschwitz bunk with a 2G (second generation survivor) whose dad is in pictures in the infamous photograph with Elie Wiesel; to be with a 3G reading from his aunt’s memoir about being in a cattle car transport from Hungary to Auschwitz as we were standing in front of a real cattle car at Auschwitz that was used to transport Jews from Hungary; to be with a 3G who found her relative’s name for the first time in the Book of Names; and being with the Snyders while visiting Brian’s family’s hometown for the first time; these are all experiences I will never forget.
I still get chills when I think about them and share the stories with others. I look forward to passing these stories and experiences on to my students and colleagues each year when I teach the Holocaust unit. I am forever grateful to have received this opportunity to not only learn Holocaust history, but also to dive deeper into the medieval history of Poland. I am a better social studies educator for having this experience and feel privileged to share it with the group that also embarked on this journey.
Christy Cardinale
It was the people that made participating in the “Exploring Our Roots” journey a unique and unforgettable experience. It was a sincere honor and pleasure to be able to travel through space and time with such kind, thoughtful, humorous, and genuinely curious people. The entire trip was so creatively sequenced. Beginning with the Polin Museum in Warsaw, we learned the historical context for the 1,000 years of vibrant Yiddish culture that contributed so much to Eastern European life. Then, there was the Nozyk Synagogue, the single remaining Synagogue of over 400 before the second world war in Warsaw. We celebrated the revival of Jewish culture in Kazimierz, Krakow with a live klezmer performance while enjoying a bowl of Cholent.
This incredible itinerary was brought to life by first-hand personal narratives shared by participants in the trip at poignant historical places like Schindler’s Factory and the Polish town of Wolomin. Each site, primary source account, memory, and artifact provided a special glimpse into the larger picture of Jewish life, achievement, struggle, and resilience that is so important to our world and local community. I look forward to sharing this special experience with my school community in the years ahead.
Sunday Strolls with
July 14 | 9 - 10 am
If you are a mommy with a little one 15 months or under, or an expectant mom, join us for a gentle stroll as we chat and get to know one another at the Clarence Bike Path (near Paulter’s) in East Amherst.
AT
Contact Zahava@buffalojewishfederation.org
Open Letter from
Dr. Jeff Goldberg
Dear Friends and Members of the Jewish Buffalo Community,
I am proud to share that I am a Life & Legacy donor to Hillel of Buffalo, and I encourage every member of our community to consider making a legacy commitment to support a cause or organization that resonates deeply with you. The Life & Legacy program allows us to make a promise of a meaningful gift for the future without requiring immediate contributions. This is a truly remarkable opportunity.
Life & Legacy giving is often discussed with an older audience in mind, targeting individuals with a long history of philanthropy
and deep community ties, reflecting on their legacy. At 47, I am younger than most typical participants. Yet, as the saying goes, “It’s later than you think.” Historically, people my age and younger were founding our synagogues, schools, and Jewish institutions. It is time for my peers and me to embrace our roles as the current generation’s leaders and builders. While we hope for many years ahead, this only gives us more time to ensure the organizations we care about remain robust and true to our values, securing their future through our commitment.
My involvement with Hillel stems from two primary motivations. Firstly, I aim to strengthen the connection between the Buffalo Jewish community and the University at Buffalo Jewish community. Historically, our city and university have operated separately, missing significant opportunities for mutual growth. Secondly, I am committed to securing a vibrant Jewish Buffalo for my children and their generation. Achieving this vision requires individuals like us to commit and see these efforts through, even extending beyond our lifetimes through legacy contributions.
I extend my gratitude for all you do. I know I am addressing a group of generous and dedicated individuals. With all you contribute—time, finances, resources, ideas, and energy—it is now possible to do even more without immediate financial impact. The Life & Legacy program enables you to demonstrate your lifelong support: first by declaring your intent, and then by formalizing it, by committing a portion of your assets to vital organizations. You can even do this by making your chosen organization a beneficiary on your IRA or 401(K). This commitment sets an invaluable example for your family and serves as a profound reflection of how you have lived your life.
Thank you for your generosity and dedication. Together, we can ensure the enduring strength and alignment of our cherished organizations with our values.
Warm regards,
Jeffrey I. Goldberg, DDS
About Jeffrey I. Goldberg: Originally from Rochester, Jeff came to Buffalo to study dentistry at the University at Buffalo (UB), where he also obtained an MBA and a Master’s in Oral Sciences in TMD/Orofacial Pain. His plan was to leave after his studies, but meeting Melissa, a native Buffalonian with deep Jewish roots, changed everything. They dated, married, and now raise their two children in Buffalo. With leadership experience from his Jewish youth groups, Jeff was identified as a potential lay leader for Hillel, an organization he was part of as a student at Cornell and UB. Joining the Hillel Board has been a true mitzvah for Jeff and Jewish Buffalo. His goal is to help Hillel of Buffalo achieve its full potential. We are blessed to have Jeff, Melissa, and their family as part of our community.
For more information on how you can participate in the future of Jewish Buffalo and offer support according to your means, please contact the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies at 716-204-2259 and ask for Linda Barat.
Jeffrey I. Goldberg
Life & Legacy® at Buffalo
Buffalo Delegation Gathers to Strengthen Legacy Giving at 2024 Life & Legacy® Conference
“It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to desist from it.”
– Pirkei Avot (Ethics of Fathers) 2:16
Total Legacy Commitments
Received: 460
Total dollar amount: $13,933,488
Total Number of Donors: 254 As of 5/31/2024
Representatives from Jewish Buffalo attended the 2024 Life & Legacy® Conference in Springfield, MA, sponsored by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation and Jewish Federations of North America. Our delegation included Linda Barat, Sue Freed, Rob Goldberg, Mark Horowitz, Daniel Kester, Irv Levy, Linda D. Pollack, and Sheryl Schechter.
Life & Legacy® is a partnership program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation (HGF), which supports communities across the US and Canada in promoting legacy giving to build endowments that will provide stability to the organizations comprising the fabric of Jewish life.
Now is its third year, Life & Legacy® at Buffalo, a collaboration of the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies and the Buffalo Jewish Federation, has worked with local synagogues, agencies, and organizations to secure the future of Jewish Buffalo.
These commitments have been obtained by making legacy giving central to Buffalo’s communal philanthropic culture the norm, with gifts which are meaningful to each individual, no matter the level, enabling all donors to be philanthropists. Life & Legacy® is also utilizing a new brand, which is rooted in Judaism through the eternal burning flame, symbolizing the ongoing and future “passing the torch” from generation to generation (L’Dor V’dor)
For more information, please contact Linda Barat, Life & Legacy at Buffalo Coordinator, at Linda@jewishphilanthropies.org or 716-204-2259.
The group joined colleagues from throughout North America to engage in networking, sharing best practices, and learning strategies to make endowment building and legacy giving a normative practice. Kathy Sarlson, Life & Legacy’s National Director, highlighted the significance of the conference, stating, “The Harold Grinspoon Foundation’s vision of building vibrant Jewish communities underscores our
collective responsibility to care for one another. It is emblematic of the work we do each day to ensure a joyous, proud, safe, and sustainable Jewish world for our children, grandchildren, and future generations.”
The three-day event commenced with a candle-lighting ceremony in remembrance of Yom HaShoah, where six individuals honored the memory of those who perished during the Holocaust. Dan Kester from our delegation was among those who participated in this solemn ceremony.
Notably, our Buffalo contingent was selected for a special meeting with Life & Legacy founder, Harold Grinspoon, and President Winnie Sandler Grinspoon, recognizing our community’s strong presence at the conference. In a light-hearted moment, our group presented Harold with a pair of Buffalo chicken wing socks, which he enthusiastically modeled on his hands.
We encourage all Life & Legacy donors, professionals, lay leaders, clergy, anyone interested in legacy giving, and YOU, to join us next year and continue building a sustainable future for Jewish Buffalo.
Voices Against Hate
A new mural has been installed downtown in conjunction with the CEPA Gallery exhibit on the Shoah, “The Power of Resilience and Hope: Photography and the Holocaust: Then and Now,” displayed at the CEPA Gallery during the first five months
of 2024. The mural is on the side of the Western New York Book Arts Center at 468 Washington Street. The 11' x 11' mural depicts the phrase “Use your Voice to Stop Hate” in almost 30 different languages, each of which is spoken by a community in Buffalo.
Photographer Robert Hirsch, curator of the CEPA Gallery show, and co-curator of the mural along with the creators, artists Mizin Shin and Ruby Merritt, developed this project in response to the surge of hatred, racial prejudice and violence in Western New York. The mural was installed by staff at the CEPA Gallery using wheat paste, a technique utilized by artist Max Collin of the Springville Art Center.
Remarkably this project was conceived prior to the horrific Hamas attacks on October 7, when 1,139 Israelis were murdered and hundreds more kidnapped.
Mr. Hirsch commented, “What’s important about the mural is that it’s public art on a main thoroughfare in downtown Buffalo. During its installation, people were stopping and helping to add additional languages on the spot. We wanted to reach out and include as many communities in our
area as possible. Hate, unfortunately, knows no bounds. One way to combat this ignorance is through education. CEPA, WNY Book Arts, and HERO are all committed to education and reaching out to as many different groups as possible.”
Zachary Wexler Stands Up for Israel
BY LISA BLOCH RODWIN
Zachary Wexler, a student at SUNY Cortland, studying Sport Management, found himself in a unique environment responding to student-led backlash and protest after October 7: aboard a boat. He, along with 500 students from around the world, participated in “Semester at Sea,” a program that provides a floating university to students on a cruise ship and voyages to over ten countries. During the semester, Zachary expected to learn about the world through travel. However, during the experience, he also learned how to respond to antisemitism and anti-Israel hate.
Initially, Zachary’s experience began with excitement. That quickly changed after the boat docked in Malaysia and anti-Israel signage and Palestinian flags were posted on doors and hung throughout the ship. Zachary confronted a student who was draped in a Palestinian scarf, only to then be ostracized by many of his fellow students.
A friend of Zachary’s on board reflected, “What started as an exciting journey of meeting new people and seeing the world ended up being a toxic environment filled with antisemitism.” Every day, Zachary and the few students who were brave enough to identify themselves as Jewish, were met with hateful comments and accusations. Of the 500 students aboard, Zachary estimated 30% were vocally pro-Palestinian or antiZionist activists.
Dealing with protests and politics on a physical college campus is a challenge for any Jewish college student. However, for Zachary, being on board a ship prevented him from connecting with outside support. As the elected leader of the Jewish Students Club on board, Zachary was tasked with responding to the hate, without help from ship administrators. Compassion came while docked in South Africa. Zachary sought out the support of a Chabad Rabbi who advised him, “Be true to yourself.” Zachary visited the Jewish Museum in Cape Town and bought a Magen David necklace that he courageously wore for the remainder of the semester on board. Zachary gathered Jewish students to hold Shabbat dinners and even came together to stage a Purim play.
During a time of isolation and tension, Zachary led himself and others to affirm their Jewish identity and support for Israel. He furthered his own connection to his faith and culture and fostered the small community on board the ship. We commend Zachary for his dedication and resilience in the face of opposition.
Community Gathers for JFS Matzah Ball
On May 16, Jewish Family Services of Western New York held its inaugural gala at Temple Beth Zion. The Matzah Ball featured 275 guests gathering in celebration of the JFS mission, kicked off the public phase of their Capital Campaign, and presented awards to several deserving recipients.
“The Matzah Ball, above all else, was an opportunity to celebrate the Jewish, WNY and JFS communities,” said CEO Molly Carr, Ph.D. “Without every single one of our local partners, from donors to volunteers and everyone in between, JFS would not have the resources to foster such significant change for the lives of so many individuals and families, and truly leave our footprint on the community.”
As part of the event, JFS staff shared details about the organization’s Capital Campaign and provided exclusive tours of ongoing renovations to their headquarters at Temple Beth Zion. Scheduled to be completed later this summer, the new space configuration will increase access to vital services including employment, family wellness, mental health, and community integration. The facility will also include the expansion of multi-purpose spaces and designated child-care areas for parents to bring their children while they attend educational and employment training sessions.
JFS debuted four awards at The Matzah Ball. Each highlighted a recipient’s unwavering dedication to strengthening and supporting Western New York through selfless, philanthropic commitments to the community.
Nasreen Ahktar, co-owner of Aero Transportation and Naz716 Business Center, received the Kehillah Community Builder award. The award celebrates her commitment to fostering unity, inclusivity, and solidarity within the community. Nasreen has been a strong partner in JFS’ expansion into Niagara Falls, particularly around refugee resettlement. Recognizing a lifetime of philanthropy and an intergenerational commitment to the values of community and compassion, the L’Dor V’Dor Award was presented to Marilyn
Shuman. Marilyn and her family are devoted leaders in the Jewish community. Many have experienced the positive impacts of their philanthropy throughout WNY.
The Chai Community Leadership Award honors individuals committed to community service and activism, and was presented to dedicated civic leaders, Larry Rubin and Debra Chernoff. Lastly, the Mensch of the Year Award recognized Rob Goldberg as a community member who embodies the highest ideals of integrity, kindness, and moral character. Rob serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Buffalo Jewish Federation.
For more information about JFS programs and services or to make a donation to its ongoing Capital Campaign, please visit jfswny.org/giving-options.
Temple Beth Zion to Welcome Cantor Susan Lewis-Friedman
Following a nationwide search, Temple Beth Zion approved Cantor Susan Lewis-Friedman as their new Cantor at a special Congregational Meeting in early March. Cantor LewisFriedman has served as Cantor for congregations in suburban Chicago since 2015, most recently at Temple Jeremiah. She has invigorated the Adult and Jr. Choirs in several congregations, instituted lay musical participation during worship, created and directed a teen a cappella choir, and led lay leadership in creating Purim Spiels and other musical events.
Cantor Lewis-Friedman received her Cantorial Ordination from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (New York) in 2015. She is a proud member of the American Conference of Cantors, the Cantors Assembly, and the Actors’ Equity Association. Her original compositions are often used in worship and have been heard on Jewish Rock Radio. Her album, “Sing, Pray, Repeat!” includes many of her compositions as well as other Jewish songs for children. The album can be downloaded at no charge at her website: susanlewisfriedman.com/ singprayrepeat.
On July 1, Cantor Lewis-Friedman will join Senior Rabbi Brent Gutmann in leading TBZ. Ken Polk, TBZ President, shared, “We are extremely excited to welcome Cantor Lewis-Friedman and her family to Buffalo and our sacred TBZ family. She has the experience, warmth, and talent to lead us forward.” Rabbi Gutmann, who served on the search committee shares, “We were fortunate to have many exceptionally talented applicants. What stood out to us
from the start was Cantor Lewis-Friedman’s approachability and genuineness.” He added, “We are so blessed to have Cantor Lewis-Friedman’s support as we strive to serve temple’s spiritual needs.”
Cantor Lewis-Friedman’s Installation at Temple Beth Zion will be celebrated during the first weekend in November. The Cantor, her husband Ross, and their children, Abigail and Zev, look forward to becoming members of the Western New York community and the TBZ family. “I am so excited to work with Rabbi Gutmann to lead and inspire Temple Beth Zion to be a center of faith, community, and music, and to be a beacon of light in the Buffalo Jewish Community.”
To mark their arrival, a special Oneg will follow the 7:15 pm Erev Shabbat Service on Friday, July 5, and a Kiddush luncheon will follow the 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Service on July 6. Both services will take place at Temple Beth Zion, 805 Delaware Avenue.
Cantor Susan Lewis-Friedman
TBT Embraces Summer: From Jewish Camping to Kesher Inclusion!
There is nothing like a Buffalo summer and Temple Beth Tzedek (TBT) continues to embrace this lovely time of year. Building off an inspiring May, which featured the Installation of Rabbi Sara Rich as our spiritual leader and Linda Boxer becoming president of the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism International Northeast Region, in June, TBT hosted a Family Fun Day at Camp Centerland and celebrated the Summer Send-Off of our youth to summer camp, USY Wheels, and other special adventures. Thank you to co-chairs Dr. Mike Steklof and Prof. Nathan Fox and the community, for another special Tikkun Leil Shavuot of all-night Jewish learning which covered broad topics from cheesecake baking to perplexing textual questions.
As a congregation that embraces a culture of inclusion from our Universal Designcertified sanctuary to our programming, we are proud that our Kesher Inclusion Committee co-chairs have been extending their message across the community and beyond. Recently, Janet Gunner was a panelist on a Women’s League for Conservative Judaism Inclusion 101 workshop, and Sharla Bleichfeld was named a 2024 Woman of Distinction Award winner by local Assemblywoman Karen McMahon. Please check out btzbuffalo.org to see our prayer and programming opportunity for July
This August, six Temple Beth Tzedek families will be attending Camp Ramah in Canada’s Family Camp to experience the magic of joyous Judaism at the flagship institution of the camping arm of Conservative Judaism. It continues the legacy that generations of TBT members have had as Ramahniks (Ramah campers) at their campgrounds in the Muskoka region of Ontario, less than four hours from Buffalo.
Rabbi Sara Rich’s Installation
Buffalo Hadassah: Gathering, Learning and Doing Mitzvot
In late May, Hadassah hosted its second Dignity Grows packing event, during which 12 Hadassah volunteers assembled 240 tote bags of menstrual and personal hygiene products for individuals in need. In June, a program was held at the Burchfield Penney Museum, where attendees received a personalized tour.
As always, Buffalo Hadassah programs include mitzvah projects, educational programs, and purely fun gatherings. Hadassah members often attend the Jewish Repertory Theater productions together. Special prices are offered to Hadassah members, with part of the ticket cost benefitting Hadassah’s charitable work in Israel. The Program Committee is planning a long-awaited trip to the Comedy Museum in Jamestown, NY in the early fall. For more information about Buffalo Hadassah and its programs email Marlene at mkatzel@me.com, or attend the Hadassah Board monthly meetings in-person or via Zoom.
Jewish Renewal with Rabbi Yonina Foster
Come for inspiration and uplift with a contemplative, chant filled service. Learn about Renewal, founded by Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi (z”l), the prayer service based on tradition imbued with a NeoChassidic expression. We’ll awaken our bodies with gentle movement based on our liturgy, praise and sing P’suke D’Zimre, welcome the love of the One, and stand before Sinai to speak from our heart. We’ll learn Torah and, in the end, ground ourselves by sharing a little food together. Join us for this gentle, enriching Shabbat morning experience on July 20 and August 17 at 10:30 am. Location to be announced. Contact Rabbi Yonina Foster RabbiYoninaFosterphd@gmail.com for more information.
JOIN MACCABI MEDIA IN ISRAEL - SUMMER 2025
Rabbi Yonina Foster
Buffalo WellRepresented at Chidon ‘24
Nearly 7,700 Jewish children from over 248 schools in 38 countries participated in this year’s worldwide Chidon competition, with the grand Chidon event taking place in Brooklyn this spring. About 30 students from Ohr Temimim School joined the incredible one-day program packed with amazing trips, delicious meals, and fun activities culminating in the grand Chidon Gameshow event and concert.
The Chidon competition is for children who learn the 613 Mitzvot of the Torah in-depth (totaling over 10,000 torah facts). They study hard all year during their own free time, take three rigorous exams plus a final exam to prove their knowledge, and if they qualify, are eligible for the Chidon rewards and awards. Those with top test scores are invited to compete in the international Game Show Championship in NYC!
The Chidon program is arranged and coordinated by Tzivos Hashem and Mitzvah Tank of Buffalo Niagara. Transportation to New York was supported this year by both the Buffalo Jewish Federation and the TELLL Fund.
Although the Buffalo representation tends to be on the smaller side compared to some of the larger Jewish schools, Ohr Temimim has been participating in the Chidon for the past 8 years and has brought the Silver Trophy home five times! This year, Ohr Temimim’s Zelda Gurary and Yechezkel Lorber each earned a special blue trophy award for highest achievement!
A local Chidon award and reward ceremony took place at Ohr Temimim School in May, giving parents and teachers a chance to celebrate their student’s success and achievements.
FIXED ANNUITIES
Welcome KOT’s new Rabbi, Shlomo Schachter
BY TED AND PHYLLIS STEINBERG
Although it was difficult for members of Kehillat Ohr Tzion to say goodbye to Rabbi Ori Bergman and his family this summer, they feel fortunate and happy to welcome their new rabbi, Rabbi Shlomo Barya Nadiv Schachter. Rabbi Schachter stems from a rabbinical family and decided to pursue a rabbinical career while he was a student at Oberlin College. He comes to Buffalo from British Columbia.
Rabbi Schachter decided to pursue a rabbinical career because as a college student, he encountered many Jewish students who felt divorced from their Judaism. Even students who had attended Jewish day schools often felt little connection to their religious and cultural heritage. Rabbi Schachter, though not yet a rabbi, of course, felt a responsibility to correct that situation. He sought to introduce young people— but not only young people—to what he calls “juicy Judaism,” a Judaism that is alive, vibrant, that speaks to people at their very core.
At Oberlin, Rabbi Schachter majored in
Jewish Studies and Christian Theology, so he was well-equipped to pursue a rabbinical career. He also studied at yeshivas in Israel. In addition to being well-versed in the Scriptural and textual traditions of Judaism, Rabbi Schachter is also adept in practical aspects of Judaism. For example, he knows how to tie tzitzit and, more surprisingly, he is practicing shochet (one who performs ritual slaughter). This is also part of his family background, as his greatgrandfather was a shochet in Eastern Europe.
Outdoor Sport Court Dedicated at Ohr Temimim
Rabbi Schachter’s interests extend even further. While he was in Israel, he studied aspects of alternative medicine like reflexology and acupuncture. And, yet another interest was—are you ready? —football. At Oberlin, he was on the college’s football team, and when football came to Israel, he played and coached a West Bank team that was made up of Israeli and Palestinian players.
Rabbi Schachter likens davening to football. A person cannot just run onto the field and become a football player, but the process of becoming a player should be enjoyable. So, too, with prayer and Jewish life. They are also the results of process, a process that should be enjoyable and affirming. This attitude explains why Rabbi Schachter has been successful both as a congregational rabbi and as a campus rabbi at the University of Illinois.
Rabbi Schachter is passionate about Judaism, and he wants to communicate that passion and emotional awareness to the people with whom he comes in contact. He is anxious to meet the people of Buffalo and to become part of Buffalo’s Jewish life. We welcome Rabbi Schachter to our community and look forward to learning more about “juicy Judaism.”
The Jewish Heritage Day School/ Ohr Temimim campus is seeing some new additions in the name of wellness. A state of the art, outdoor “sport court” boasts a regulation size basketball court, a pickleball court and a place to play hockey, foursquare and more. It also has an open-air classroom and eating area with commercial picnic tables and benches. Rabbi Shmuel Shanowitz, principal of the school commented: “It’s been heartwarming to see alumni, community members, and friends step forward to fund this project. We are truly grateful.”
“We’re excited to be able to offer this unique outdoor sports facility to our students, staff and members of the community. We believe good health is key to success in the classroom and in life,” said Sonia Gellman
and personal growth.”
When asked what’s next for the school, Gellman Young says a new upgraded playground is on the wish list!
fosters a healthy frame of mind and a passion for learning
Jewish Heritage Day School/ Ohr Temimim is powered in part by the Buffalo Jewish Federation. The school Campus is also home to the Gan Israel Buffalo Day camp.
Rabbi Shlomo Schachter
Learn it! Live it! Love it!
Imagine a Hebrew School where kids don’t want to miss a day.
They come in with a smile and leave humming a Hebrew song.
Imagine a child who feels the warmth and spirit of Judaism and understands its importance today.
Chai Hebrew School is a unique Hebrew School where the beauty, values and traditions of Judaism are brought to life through a kaleidoscope of activities and interactive lessons, hands-on demonstrations and Jewish holiday- and mitzvot-themed arts and crafts.
For over 20 years the Chai Hebrew School has proven to provide a serious yet enjoyable environment for children to receive a broad knowledge of Judaism in a stimulating and challenging venue. Our students gain an appreciation for the joys, values and traditions of our heritage, as they are vividly brought to life by our dedicated and enthusiastic teachers, whose creativity and dynamism make every lesson a unique learning experience.
Have you ever heard “but Hebrew reading is boring?”
Move over and make room for Aleph Champ, modeled after the Karate/Martial Arts system. Aleph Champ motivates students as they advance in rank and learn to read Hebrew in an efficient, well-orchestrated and fun manner.
Kids call our program fun; you’ll think of it more as awesome or cutting-edge. Our class size is small, our teachers’ hearts are big. We take a square look at everything from Jewish lifecycles to
holidays and current events in Israel. Our highly acclaimed CKids curriculum workbook - with its distinctive design - stimulates the imagination. One peek and we’re sure you’ll agree that our curriculum is well-rounded.
Dr. Channa Kolb shares: “My daughters have attended the Chai Hebrew School since they were toddlers. I cannot tell you what a difference the Chai Hebrew School has had in our lives. My girls truly feel special in this school and are very proud to be Jewish. Most important of all, the Chai School taught my girls to be morally strong and virtuous with Torah values.”
The Chai Hebrew School is located at the Center for Jewish Life, 757 Hopkins Road in Williamsville.
Registration for the upcoming 2024/25 school year is now open. For more information please visit JewishBuffalo.com.
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Hyperlocal farm-to-table restaurant guide
’Tis the season! The optimal time to enjoy local produce is undoubtedly late July through September, but the early growing season is enchanting for its enthusiastic anticipation of what’s to come. Celebrate the next six months of Western New York’s growing season by booking reservations at restaurants dedicated to local farms.
Utilizing local produce is easy in the sense that ultra fresh ingredients yield unparalleled quality, but it requires skill and dedication. Seasonality implies flexibility. And development and retention of genuine relationships with local farmers. Many restaurants can’t or won’t accommodate these two fundamental “ingredients” for various reasons, but it’s the perfect time celebrate those that do.
Billy Club, Buffalo
Black Iron Bystro, Kenmore BreadHive, Buffalo Britesmith Brewing, Williamsville
Serve your family only the freshest, best tasting and most nutritious egg, Eggland's Best . Proudly produced in Western New York by 4th generation family egg farmers.
Celebrating 100 years of feeding families throughout our community.
Carmelo’s Ristorante, Lewiston
CRaVing Restaurant, Buffalo
Dapper Goose, Buffalo
The Grange Community Kitchen, Hamburg
Five Points Bakery, Buffalo
Jay’s Artisan Pizza, Kenmore
The Little Club, Buffalo
Lombardo’s Ristorante, Buffalo
Marble + Rye, Buffalo
Pizzeria Florian, East Aurora
Prescott’s Provisions, Tonawanda
Shango Bistro & Wine Bar, Buffalo
Terra House, Akron
This Little Pig, Clarence
Toutant, Buffalo
Waxlight Bar à Vin, Buffalo
West Rose, Ellicottville
Winfield’s Pub, Lackawanna
Marble + Rye. Photo by kc kratt
Blueberry Corn Salad
STORY AND PHOTO BY KATHY SCHLAICH
The window of opportunity to partake of the bounty found at the many Western New York farmers markets is a short one. Gathering fresh fruits and vegetables to add to our meals is enthusiastically anticipated and enjoyed from late spring to early fall.
Most, if not all, of the ingredients in the following recipe can be purchased from any outdoor market or farm stand. It pairs well with any protein and is perfect addition to a summer potluck or picnic.
Blueberry Corn Salad
INGREDIENTS:
4-6 ears fresh sweet corn, husked
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 sliced cucumber
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeno pepper seeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a large pot, bring salted water to boil add corn and cook for five minutes or until tender. When cool enough to handle, cut corn from cobs.
In a serving bowl, combine corn, blueberries, cucumber, red onion, cilantro and jalapeno.
For the dressing, in a screw top jar, combine lime juice, oil, honey and cumin and ½ teaspoon salt. Cover and shake well to combine. Add to salad and toss. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Serves six to eight.
411 John James Audubon Parkway • Amherst, NY 14228 info@ohrtemimimschool.com • www.ohrtemimimschool.com
PRESCHOOL-GRADE 8 716-568-0226 - Rabbi Shmuel Shanowitz - Principal
INFORMATION Contact Rachel Wasserman rwasserman@buffalospree.com | 716-725-1173 or Keren Green kgreen@buffalospree.com | 347-400-9939
you know that if your
1. Explore Israeli Cuisine
One of the yummiest parts about summer is fresh fruit and vegetables! Take your little one to a farmer’s market and pick up some cucumbers and tomatoes. Have your child practice cutting the vegetables with a plastic knife (supervision is recommended!) into small pieces. Once the vegetables are cut, place them all into a large bowl
and head to your pantry for lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and make your own Israeli salad. Here is a recipe that we like: toriavey.com/israeli-salad-week.
2. Make and Braid Challah
We suggest you use this Challah recipe from PJ Library to create a challah dough: pjlibrary.org/challah. Once you make your dough, gather your little ones and let your creativity loose! Challah dough can be like Play-Doh, feel free to make 3-D structures or rely on the classic challah braid! Take it one step further and share
It’s summer in Buffalo and the sun is shining! Bring your friends to a local park with some challah, grape juice, and a picnic lunch for a low-key Shabbat gathering. PJ Library Buffalo is also hosting a PJ Pals Shabbat in the Park on July 26 and August 18 so make sure to save the date!
4. Take a Journey
Grab your bike and a helmet for a family bike ride on a local bike path! To add a Jewish spin to your bike ride, practice reciting the Traveler’s Prayer (pjlibrary. org/beyond-books/pjblog/april2017/tefilathaderech) before your ride or reflect upon what it
5. Encourage Sakranut (Creativity!)
Summer play outside is the best way to exercise your little one’s creativity! Fill up a water table, spread out some chalk on the driveway, or go to a local playground and encourage your children to do what they do best – imagine!
CRS Looks Forward to ‘24-25 School Year!
The Community Religious School is excited to open doors for the 2024–2025 school year!
This new year will focus on enriched academics through varied student electives taught by Rabbis Alex LazarusKlein, Brent Gutmann and Sara Rich along with our exceptional staff.
Hebrew 1:1 will continue to be taught from first through seventh grade remotely at the convenience of our religious school families and teachers.
Special holiday celebrations along with grade-specific family programs will enable our parents to get to know each other and form stronger bonds. Parents have been our strongest partners with their participation in the parent council and the education committee.
CRS is an inclusive pluralistic Community Religious School that inspires Jewish identity, literacy, and values. Our rabbis, educators and teen role models foster an environment where
leadership, lifelong friendships and family connections thrive. The Community Religious School serves the students of Temple Beth Tzedek, Temple Beth Zion, Congregation Shir Shalom and unaffiliated families. One community, one community school. CRS provides engaging curriculum which includes Holidays, Israel, Torah, Ethics/Values, Life cycle, History, Food/ Cooking, Art and Music.
For more information on our academic program for students Pre-K through 7th grade, our Madrichim program for 8th-12th graders, or to become a supporter, please contact Einav Symons at BuffaloCRS@gmail.com.
Jewish Community Organizations in Western New York
Buffalo Jewish Federation
338 Harris Hill Road – Suite 108B
Williamsville, NY 14221
716-463-5050
buffalojewishfederation.org
Rob Goldberg - CEO
Miriam Abramovich - COO
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
Mike Steklof, Ed.D., Interim Campus Director
Dr. Iris Danziger - President
Holocaust Education Resource Organization
338 Harris Hill Road – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221
hrcbuffalo.org
Lauren Bloomberg - Director Armand Morrison - Chair
Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo, Inc.
Benderson Family Building 2640 North Forest Road Getzville, NY 14068
716-688-4033
jccbuffalo.org
Patty Simonson - CEO
Sheryl Schechter - President
Holland Family Building 787 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY 14209
716-886-3145
Jewish Community Relations Council
338 Harris Hill Road – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221
buffalojewishfederation.org
Harvey Sanders - 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
Krista Bryk - Property Manager
Jewish Federation Cemetery Corporation, Inc.
338 Harris Hill Road – Suite 108B
Williamsville, NY 14221
buffalojewishfederation.org
716-463-5050
Jonathan Schechter - President
Debbie Pivarsi - Administrator
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 Road – Suite 108B Williamsville, NY 14221
Mike Steklof, Ed.D. - Senior Director
Marni Marciano - 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
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 Road, 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 Street, Williamsville, NY 14221 716-833-3165
congregationhavurah.org president.havurah@gmail.com
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 Road Williamsville, NY 14221
ohrtzion.org/kot
Rabbi Shlomo Schachter
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 Sara Rich
Cantor Mark Spindler
Cantorial Intern Zahava Fried
Beth Kassirer- 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
Cantor Susan Lewis Friedman
Mark Hayman - Executive Director
Ken Polk - President
Temple Beth El (Reform) 720 Ashland Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14301
templebethelniagara@gmail.com niagarafallstemple.com
Rabbi Ellen Franke Cantorial Soloist Barry Rose
Adam DePriest - 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
Rabbi Avi Okin
Richard Berger and Michael PaskowitzCo-Presidents
Free, fun, and sun Al fresco activities for adults
BY MEAGAN DOXTAD, FOREVER YOUNG EXECUTIVE EDITOR
It’s summer—time to get outside, reconnect with neighbors, and take in as much fresh air as possible during this period of warm temps. Lucky for Western New Yorkers, being short on funds doesn’t mean being short on activities. It seems every weekend there’s a festival to wander, a garden walk to stroll, or a show to catch. The hardest part? Deciding what to do.
Stop and smell the peonies, petunias, and roses
In 1995, twenty-nine gardens participated in the first Garden Walk Buffalo, most of them around West Ferry Street, Richmond Avenue, Summer Street, and Elmwood Avenue, according to Gardens Buffalo Niagara, the founding organization. There was no admission fee for that very first Garden Walk—and there still isn’t, even though, as the organization’s website says, “in every other way, the event has grown well beyond its original size and scope.” Each year, the number of participating gardens has increased until it became the largest event of its kind in the United States. What’s more, many WNY townships have created their own walks. Visit gardensbuffaloniagara.com for specific times.
July 6-7: Town of Amherst Garden Walk
July 12-13: Lockport in Bloom
July 13: Springville Concord Garden Walk
July 13-14: North Tonawanda Garden Walk
July 13-14: Samuel P. Capen Garden Walk
July 13-14: Buzz Around Hamburg
July 14: Snyder-CleveHill Garden View
July 14: Grand Island Garden Walk
July 19-21: Ken-Ton Garden Tour
July 20: East Aurora Garden Walk
July 20-21: East Side Garden Walk
July 20: Lancaster Garden Walk
July 27-28: Garden Walk Buffalo
Browse nature’s bounty and meet those who grew it
While you will need your wallet to pick up something for supper, farmers markets are more than a chance to shop; they present opportunities to connect with the people who grow our food, run into
neighbors, hear live bands, and sample fresh produce and other goodies, often for free. Some markets are even open weekdays, offering a chance to browse without the weekend hustle and bustle (unless you like that sort of thing!). Note that hours and times are for the current summer season.
MARKETS OPEN WEEKDAYS:
Clinton Bailey Farmers Market:
Daily, 8-5 pm (1443 Clinton Street, Buffalo)
East Aurora Farmers Market:
Wednesdays and Saturdays, 7 am-1 pm (123 Grey Street, East Aurora)
Eden Farmers Market: Tuesdays, 3:30-7:30 pm (2912 Legion Drive, Eden)
Niagara Falls City Market:
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 8 am-3 pm (779 East Market Street, Niagara Falls)
MARKETS OPEN WEEKENDS ONLY:
Clarence Hollow Farmers Market: Saturdays, 8 am-1 pm (10717 Main Street, Clarence) Elmwood-Bidwell Parkway Farmers Market:
Saturdays, 8 am-1 pm (Corner of Bidwell and Elmwood, Buffalo)
Hamburg Farmers Market: Saturdays, 7:30 am-1 pm (45 Church Street, Hamburg)
Kenmore Farmers Market: Sundays beginning mid-June, 9 am-1 pm (2919 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore)
South Buffalo Farmers Market: Sundays, 9 am-1 pm (Cazenovia Park)
Williamsville Farmers Market: Saturdays, 8 am-1 pm (5583 Main Street, Williamsville)
JAY L. MESNEKOFF President/Owner
Remembering Holocaust Survivor Ruth Lansing
This month we remember one of our community’s beloved Holocaust survivors, Ruth Lansing. Ruth passed away earlier this year on April 5 at age 105. Ruth was born two days after the Armistice was signed, ending World War I, and lived through two pandemics – surviving the Spanish Flu of 1918. Our community has lost a true inspiration, and the world has lost an unsung hero of justice, as Ruth survived Nazi Germany and the Holocaust to then become a translator at the Nuremberg Trials.
Ruth was born in Odenkirchen, Germany and survived the horrors of Kristallnacht, sharing her experiences with thousands of people through the years, as she was one of the last surviving witnesses of Kristallnacht. She fled Germany immediately following the devastation of Kristallnacht, and escaped to England on a domestic servant permit where she survived the harrowing destruction of The Blitz and worked as a maid and waitress.
Tragically, her parents and her sister Gerti perished in Auschwitz. Ruth went forward to live a remarkable life. After the war, she returned to Germany for three
years while waiting to be eligible to join her sister Lucy in the US. She worked as an allied employee in censorship and then as a translator at the Nuremberg Trials, ensuring that these trials were fair and expeditious so that justice was promptly administered. Finally, after 10 years of waiting for her quota number to come up, Ruth immigrated to the United States in 1948.
active volunteer in our community, and an avid tennis player until she was 91.
On the 80 th anniversary of Kristallnacht, Ruth was interviewed by the BBC as she was turning 100, about her experiences during the two days of Kristallnacht. Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Computer, heard her BBC interview and incorporated her story in his acceptance speech for the Anti-Defamation League’s
Our community has lost a true inspiration, and the world has lost an unsung hero of justice
Ruth visited her sister in Buffalo and immediately met her future husband Eric Lansing, z”l, marrying in 1949 and raising two children, Diane and Tom. Ruth worked for 20 years as a real estate agent, and along with her husband was among the founding members of Temple Beth Am, a predecessor temple of Congregation Shir Shalom. Ruth and Eric travelled the world, visiting 53 countries on 6 continents. Ruth was an extremely
first Courage Against Hatred Award. It is in this interview with the BBC that Ruth shared her hopeful message with the world: “We only have one life to live and why not use it to make the world a better place. We would do better to focus on our similarities than our differences.”
To read more about Ruth’s story, visit buffalojewishfederation.org/ruthLansing-hero.
In Remembrance
The following individuals in our community passed away during the period from April 15, 2024 -June 17, 2024. May their memories forever be a blessing, and may their loved ones be comforted among the mourners of Zion.
Harold Bob
Judith Brody
Alex Danilovich
Marvin T. Dubin
Edward Marvin “Eddie” Egnuss
Lester Frank
Maryann Saccomando Freedman, Esq.
Rose Ellen Haber
Allan Ross Lipman
Renee Joffe
Stanley Jolton
Charles E. Milch
Henry Peita
Esther Postmantur
Sara “Sally” Robinson
Betty Saffer
Sidney Weiss
Sylvia Weiss
If we inadvertently missed printing the listing of your loved one, please email jjwny@buffalojewishfederation.org and we will include the name in the next issue.
(NOT) THE LAST WORD
Farewell Buffalo
BY RABBI ORI BERGMAN
One who learns from his fellow one chapter, or one halakhah, or one verse, or one word, or even one letter, is obligated to treat him with honor (Ethics of the Fathers).
To Buffalo, my family and I owe you eternal gratitude as we take the many lessons learned from and with the community to our new home in Ottawa.
Below are a collection of small snippets of grand lessons learned along the way with Kehillat Ohr Tzion and the broader Jewish community to which we owe you our gratitude.
A couple comes to shul on Yom Kippur without tickets and the guard won’t let them in. After pleading and giving an excuse that they absolutely MUST enter to give a quick message to a friend, the guard lets them in: “ OK, I’ll let you go in… but if I catch you praying…”
For this reason our sages explain why the Torah was given in the desert. Just like the desert is a public space for all, so too no one can say this Torah is mine to the exclusion of yours. It does not belong to the elite or the learned or those with a ticket. It belongs to the entire Kehillat Ya’akov, the congregation of Jacob (i.e all of us as we are all descendants of Jacob).
Torah is personal! Jewish history, it is not just a story, it is our story. We each have a chapter to write to ensure it continues to the next generation. Thus, Judaism’s foundational step to personal growth are the words: ze shelanu, this is ours.
Accept Judaism for what it is, not for what we want it to be. By extension, in our relationships with others, accept those before us for whom they are and not the standard of who we want them to be. Similarly, from the words of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, “the greatest religious challenge is: Can I see God’s image in one who is not in my image – whose colour, class, culture or creed is different from mine?”
Judaism does not believe in prohibitions. It believes in boundaries. Paradoxically, boundaries set one free. A study was conducted where children were to play in a large park, one fenced and one not. Those who played in a fenced area utilized the entire park. Those who were unfenced, tended to stay closer to the centre. The boundaries of the Torah create a space for us to spread our wings and reach our potential.
“One day Alice came to a fork in the road and saw a Cheshire cat in a tree. ‘Which road do I take?’ she asked. ‘Where do you want to go?’ was his response. ‘I don’t know,’ Alice answered. ‘Then,’ said the cat, ‘it doesn’t matter.” For all roads will take you there. We all have a personal purpose and mission which God placed us in this world to fulfill. Clarifying this, says the Ramchal, is the route to closeness with God. So how do we clarify our mission and where we need to go? Says Rabbi Sacks: The meeting place of what you want to do and what you need to do, that is where God wants you to be.
Judaism is “obsessed” with serving others and keeping us other focused. Humility is not seeking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. Embrace responsibility and service.
Prioritize listening and your words will be heard.
Prayer is service of the heart. It can happen anytime and anywhere the heart is activated. God desires our heart.
Seek a teacher. Judaism is built on a masoret, chain of tradition. It is not in historical isolation.
Be a teacher, take what you’ve learned and teach others. We are all teachers. If you know aleph, teach alef.
Seek a teacher that both affirms you yet challenges you to be a better version of yourself.
Seek a friend that will tell you how it is and not just what you want to hear.
Beethoven rose each morning at dawn and made himself coffee. He was fastidious about this: each cup had to be made with exactly sixty beans, which he counted out each time. He would then sit at his desk and compose until 2 pm or 3 pm in the afternoon. Later, he would go for a long walk, taking a pencil and some sheets of music paper to record any ideas that came to him on the way. Each night after supper he would have a beer, smoke a pipe, and go to bed early, 10:00 p.m. at the latest. The Hebrew word for hard work is avodah. It also means “serving God.” What applies in the arts, sciences, business, and industry applies equally to the life of the spirit. Achieving any form of spiritual growth requires sustained effort and daily rituals. Thus, Judaism comes alive in sustained daily practice.
Jews remain vulnerable. Perhaps never in our lifetimes have we felt this more than after October 7th. The source of our strength is our unity. We ask God in the daily prayer, “bless us our Father” and this is contingent on, “as we are one”. I was inspired by a community member who after facing antisemitism in high school, responded by wearing a kippa the next day. Am Yisrael Chai! A bit of light banishes a great deal of darkness.
Forgiveness might be the hardest thing to do. But it is worth a try. It’s not upon you to complete the task but but neither are you at liberty to neglect it (Pirkei Avot).
COVID Taught us that we were all intertwined. We share the air. So too our souls are intertwined. When you do good, it encourages others to do the same. A mitzvah leads to another mitzvah. This can be understood as, “when you do a mitzvah, it inspires and leads someone else to do a mitzvah”.
Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev was looking out over the town square. Everywhere he saw people rushing. He called to one man, ‘What are you rushing for?” The man replied, ‘I’m running to make a living.’
Levi Yitzchak said, ‘What makes you so sure that your livelihood is in front of you so that you have to rush to catch it up? What if it’s behind you? Maybe you should stop and let it catch up with you.’
Sometimes we can travel so fast that we completely miss the view. At regular intervals, we need to stop, pause and breathe deeply. “Jews used to say that food tastes better on the Sabbath. I think they meant that pleasures taste better when you have time to let them linger on the tongue. Happiness requires tranquility. As Rabbi Levi Yitzchak said, it is right behind us, waiting for us to rest so that it can catch up to us”
(Rabbi Sacks).
There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in (Leonard Cohen).
Lastly, a story: Rabbi Adin Even-Israel Steinsaltz once invited a professor to his Talmud class at the Hebrew University. He asked the professor, “Why don’t you join the class? All of your colleagues come.” The professor responded, “I don’t belong in the class. We have nothing in common.” “What do you mean we have nothing in common?” asked the Rabbi. “You don’t understand!” said the professor. “I only eat pork! On Shabbat! Exclusively!” “Only on Shabbat?” asked Rabbi Steinsaltz. “Specifically! Spitefully! On Shabbat!” “Ahh, in that case,” said Rabbi Steinsaltz, “we do have something in common. You see, the Torah enjoins us to honour the Shabbat. I have my way of honouring Shabbat and you have your way, I wouldn’t necessary do it that way, but you’re doing something and that’s significant.”
Indeed, your own light shines when you expose the light in others. Thank you Kehillat Ohr Tzion and the Buffalo Jewish community for illuminating our lives. We look forward to continuing our friendship with you and to staying in touch. (P.S. Would love to hear your thoughts and comments at oribergman@gmail.com).
