Akron Jewish News, February 2022

Candlelighting times on Page 21

A K R O N

AkronJewishNews.com

ADAR I 5782 | FEBRUARY 2022

Welcome to the new ‘Sobering for all of us’ - Biden admin.

Akron Jewish News assures Jewish community

Adelstein

Singerman

We are thrilled to be part of the Akron Jewish community. Since we announced in December that our Cleveland Jewish Publication Company agreed to publish the newspaper on behalf of the Jewish Community Board of Akron and cover the important news affecting the community, we have received encouraging feedback.

Your clear excitement reflects a high demand for news, features and information about the Jewish communities in Akron and its surrounding areas, the United States and Israel. It is our continued goal and commitment to meet that demand with integrity, energy and accuracy.

Our move into Akron marks the WELCOME | 4

A new, improved Akron Jewish News

Y Mandel

ou are holding in your hand, a new and improved version of the Akron Jewish News. We are happy and excited to be able to provide a better paper to our community and we look forward to hearing your comments.

This change has been about two years in the making. We became distracted when we had to turn our attention to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last fall, then-interim CEO David Koch and I, with the approval of the Jewish Community Board of Akron board of trustees, restarted discussions with the publisher of the Cleveland Jewish News and Columbus Jewish News. This month’s edition of the AJN is the result of those discussions.

Once again, we are saddened by an attack on one of our treasured Jewish institutions. As I write these observations, the incident is still fresh on our minds. Before Jan. 15, few of us had ever heard of Colleyville, Texas. Thankfully, other than the gunman, no one was physically injured during the hostageMANDEL | 3

JANE KAUFMAN Akron Jewish News

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embers of President Joe Biden’s administration offered reassurance and information about resources to help the Jewish community secure its synagogues, train members and share information in order to prevent and respond to future threats.

The pre-Shabbat briefing Jan. 21 was attended by Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker and came just days after he and three congregants

were held hostage inside his synagogue, Congregation Beth Israel, in Colleyville, Texas, about 30 miles from Dallas.

Attended by 5,000 people, the virtual briefing was hosted by Chanan Weissman, Biden’s liaison to the Jewish community.

Weissman said the administration considers “protecting Jewish institutions and Jews of any persuasion as a sacrosanct mission, just as we do all individuals.”

Liz Sherwood-Randall, assistant to the president for Homeland Security, called the hostage crisis Jan. 15 “sobering for all of us.”

SAFETY | 3

GOJO A DIAMOND DELIGHT Akron-based maker of Purell celebrates 75 years of cleaning up ALEX KRUTCHIK Akron Jewish News

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third-generation executive at GOJO Industries Inc., Marcella Kanfer Rolnick learned a lot from her predecessors. Her great-aunt and uncle, Goldie and Jerry Lippman, founded the company, which is the maker of Purell sanitizing products, in 1946 when women who worked stateside during World War II couldn’t get their hands cleaned properly.

With the help of a chemistry professor at Kent State University, Jerry Lippman created a solution that worked against difficult soils and was safe for skin.

“They really started the business to solve an important human problem,” Kanfer Rolnick, executive chair of GOJO, told the Akron Jewish News. “And today, we are still solving important human problems related to keeping people healthy and well.”

Seventy-five years later, GOJO is set to celebrate its longevity and service to the community under Kanfer Rolnick. Joe Kanfer, Kanfer Rolnick’s father, was named president in the mid-1970s, while GOJO | 6

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Joe Kanfer, from left, Marcella Rolnick Kanfer and Jerry Lippman at the GOJO Lippman campus in Cuyahoga Falls in 1999. | Submitted photo

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February 2022 | Akron Jewish News SAFETY | 1 Four people were held by a gunman for more than 10 hours before they escaped. The hostage taker, Malik Faisal Akram, was shot and killed by the FBI. The Dallas Morning News reported Jan. 26 that an arrest was made of the man who sold the hostage taker the gun he carried. British media also reported that two men in Manchester, England, were detained Jan. 26 for questioning.

“Like so many others, I was appalled and disturbed by what was happening in that house of worship,” Sherwood-Randall said. “At the same time, as the president’s Homeland Security adviser, I also had a job to do from the moment I got word of this and that was to ensure that the president of the United States had up-tothe-minute information about exactly what was happening on the ground.”

She said she had confidence the administration was “doing everything possible to resolve” the situation.

MANDEL | 1 taking incident, although I imagine it will take some time for many members of that Colleyville community to heal.

The moment presents, for us, a reminder to always be vigilant and remember that there is hate and racism in the world. It is on us to protect our Jewish community whenever we

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“Like many of you, my ancestors escaped antisemitism overseas to come to this promised land so they could practice their faith in a safe and secure place,” she said. “So seeing something like this, this threat to our fundamental freedoms as a democracy, is terrifying. And at the same time, we can take action to stop it. So President Biden from day one made it a priority to combat hate crimes, to combat terrorism both abroad and at home, regardless of their motivating ideology.”

She referred to the hate crimes law that Biden signed in May 2021 and the national strategy to counter domestic terrorism, which she is leading.

In addition, she said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas called on Congress to increase funding for security training at synagogues and other nonprofit organizations, “that enabled Rabbi Cytron-Walker and the other members of the congregation with whom he was being held hostage to take the actions necessary to save their lives.”

Jill Sanborn, executive assistant director of

the national security branch of the FBI, reiterated statements made by FBI Director Christopher Wray at a Jan. 20 ADL webinar regarding the bureau’s response and characterization of the event as an act of terrorism specifically targeting the Jewish community.

“We are committed to protecting the communities we serve,” Sanborn said. “And we are grateful for your support in this effort.

But more importantly, we actually depend on it. I know when I was (special agent in charge in) Minneapolis, I was constantly grateful for my relationship with ... the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota. And quite frankly, I couldn’t have done my job without them.”

Sanborn said in addition to the work of the FBI domestically to find out what took place prior to the hostage crisis, “Our international operations division continues to work with our international partners to gain insight into the hostage taker’s activities before coming to the U.S.” Sanborn also referred to the lone actor as a

rising threat.

“In recent years, we have seen the transition mostly to lone actors or small cells, who radicalized online, use easily accessible weapons to often attack soft targets,” she said. “Just as we saw last weekend, many of these individuals are inspired by personal and individualized blend of beliefs and grievances.”

Cytron-Walker expressed his gratitude for the support from law enforcement at the federal level.

“I greatly appreciate the idea that there could be more funding and even more support, all of these resources, so many of which I had no idea about,” Cytron-Walker said, adding, “The support has been overwhelming.”

He said, “I’m also, you know, a little bit sad that it takes something like this in our world to bring people together.”

“If we can do a better job to remember that, as I would put it, that we’re all created in God’s image, are all created, b’tzelem Elohim,” he said.

can.

To that end, we have, from time to time received grants from the state of Ohio for the purpose of providing security to our Albert L. and Janet A. Schultz Jewish Campus in Akron. That money has been used to upgrade security equipment and we are working to add additional fencing around the property. The most recent grant will cover one year’s cost of

campus security.

In the past, we have, from time to time, convened a task force to review our security procedures and make recommendations. It is time to do that again. If you are interested in participating in the discussion, please feel free to reach out to me. I would love to hear what you think.

And finally, as I write this column, we are

very close to naming a new JCBA CEO. We’re excited to make an announcement on that new leader very shortly.

Stephanie York and Rob Minster have done an excellent job with our search committee. I’m looking forward to working with our next CEO. Thom Mandel is board chair of the Jewish Community Board of Akron.

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Akron Jewish News | February 2022

JCBA reacts quickly to threat

JCBA CEO search enters ‘final stages’

JANE KAUFMAN Akron Jewish News

BOB JACOB Akron Jewish News

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s soon as John Kevercamp saw what was unfolding Jan. 15 during a hostage crisis in Colleyville, Texas, just before noon, he immediately sought to increase security around Jewish buildings in the Akron area.

Kevercamp, vice president of the Jewish Community Board of Akron and executive director of the Shaw JCC in Akron, told the Akron Jewish News, “Our immediate response was to contact our local police department and ask them to step up patrol in and around the JCC, particularly because we have a synagogue WELCOME | 1 second significant expansion in the CJPC’s 57year history, bringing a tradition of independent community journalism to the vibrant Jewish community here. As you likely are aware, the Akron Jewish News, and its predecessor newspaper, the Akron Jewish Observer, have been published by the JCC of Akron and JCBA for 93 years. We congratulate the JCBA and the JCC for their near-century of dedication to providing vital Jewish community-oriented journalism to Akron.

We couldn’t be happier to have them as a partner as we roll out the new Akron Jewish News.

We are excited about what the future holds for this publication. Delivered to you the first week of each month, we will print news, advertising special sections, features and commentary. When you visit us online at the new akronjewishnews.com, you’ll find all our content and more, updated regularly and posted on social media once we introduce new Facebook, Instagram and Twitter channels in the coming months. We’ll be launching a newer version of the website you visit today soon, as well.

You may already be familiar with stories that have appeared in our sister publications the Cleveland Jewish News and Columbus Jewish News – which regularly cover news in the Akron area. We assure you we will bring the same passion for news to the Akron Jewish community in this new newspaper written with Akron and surrounding-area readers first in mind.

Perhaps the most important thing to know is the AJN – like its sister publications – is now an integral part of Ohio’s largest source of Jewish community news. We are an independent member of that community. The CJPC is one

A K R O N

on campus.”

He also credited local police and said Jim Hartnett, director of community-wide security at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood, has been supportive to the Akron Jewish community.

Kevercamp “We do have security on campus,” Kevercamp said. “Times like this you always look at it a little bit closer. … We do training for campus staff and we have more training scheduled even prior to this event.”

T

he Jewish Community Board of Akron is in the “final stages” of a three-month nationwide search for a CEO and expects to make an announcement in the next few weeks.

“The next JCBA CEO will be a leader committed to creating Jewish connections for life, ensuring that the entire Akron community and beyond can participate in and incorporate Jewish cultures, traditions and values in any way that fits their interests and passions, at every stage of life,” Thom Mandel, president of the JCBA board of trustees, said in a Jan. 27 news release. “The

of the few Jewish multimedia companies in the United States that isn’t owned by an individual, a family or another Jewish organization. We are not beholden to any advertiser, newsmaker, politician or spokesperson.

In reporting the news, we try to bring our readers multiple sides of a story – whether that story is local, regional, national or international – even if those sides are sometimes critical and/ or controversial. We are strictly nonpartisan and while we feature columnists with strong opinions, we do not as a news organization endorse any political issue or candidate. We seek facts. We strive for objectivity. We aim to be fair.

When the news has an impact on Jewish people, Jewish ideology or the state of Israel, we will likely cover it. Likewise, if a Jewish individual is in the news – for favorable or critical reasons – they may receive coverage beyond what is published in general-interest media because we strive to be Akron’s Jewish newspaper of record.

We work to be accurate so you can trust what you read here. We work to get our facts straight, to report clearly and to be precise. We pursue news vigorously, require authoritative sources and correct errors of fact quickly and prominently. It is more important for us to get the story right than to report it first but with errors of fact.

Our journalists operate under a code of ethics that requires them to avoid potential conflicts of interest that could compromise their integrity and influence their coverage. Sometimes, given our tight-knit community, this creates difficulty.

However, we believe this distinguishes us and is vital to our mission. We aim to be clear about what is news, what is opinion and what is paid advertising. News aims to be non-biased and fact-based, while opinion pieces offer a point

of view. Decisions on news and opinion are made by the publisher and journalists in the newsroom, not by those who are in the news or by those who pay for ads.

In each issue, you will also see special sections on topics like health, law, and to begin this first issue, senior living. In preparing these special sections, we seek sources with expertise who can shed light on trends or news in their fields, yet, while we encourage their advertisements, we do not promote these sources or their businesses.

Readers of the AJN will have access to the work of our award-winning CJPC staff covering arts, sports, entertainment and more. We feature the important lifecycle announcements and letters to the editor that reflect the pulse of the community. Look for us out and about covering events, programs and other gatherings of interest which you’ll see captured on these very pages and on our website and social media channels.

As a multi-faceted media company, we publish several Jewish, secular and city magazines, and many e-newsletters. We produce community events, and offer a custom publishing and digital media department, as well as book publishing.

We also utilize the resources of the highlyrespected news website jns.org to provide news from and about Israel and around the world.

The AJN will offer many new and exciting opportunities for our readers, synagogues, advertisers and other community partners. We know you will have questions. How can I “pitch” a story? How do I submit a news release? How much do b’nai mitzvah announcements, engagements, weddings and obituaries cost? What are your advertising rates? We encourage you to flip through the paper for answers to these and many other questions, as well as visit akronjewishnews.

JCBA CEO we hire will lead our community in supporting and enriching the lives of Jews locally, nationally, in Israel and worldwide.”

The JCBA offered its thanks to the community for its support and patience in the search, as well as thanking David Koch for taking on the responsibilities of interim CEO throughout the past few months, according to the release.

Koch did an exceptional job leading the efforts of the Schultz Campus annual campaign and other significant efforts, including finalizing the partnership between the Akron Jewish News and the Cleveland Jewish News and assisting with the search for a new executive leader, the release stated.

How to..

• Share story ideas, tips, news releases and other editorial content: Email editorial@akronjn.org or call 216-454-8300 • Advertise: Email ads@akronjn.org or call 216-342-5191 • Share letters to the editor and opinions: Email editorial@akronjn.org or call 216-454-8300 • Submit lifecycle events (Birth, B’nai Mitzvah, Engagement, Wedding, Anniversary, Obituary, Unveiling): Visit akronjewishnews.com com. If you can’t find the answer, please call us at 216-454-8300 For editorial questions, send an email to editorial@akronjn.org, and for advertising questions, email ads@akronjn.org.

We want to thank Thom Mandel, chair of the JCBA board of trustees, David Koch, the retired former JCBA CEO who returned as a part-time independent consultant to the JCBA last year, and the entire JCBA board of trustees and staff. We look forward to working with Thom, board chairelect Stephanie York and all of our new friends on the JCBA campus who have already proven to be supportive, engaging and wonderful partners.

As you can tell, we are very excited about the Akron Jewish News and the opportunity to commence on this new journey together. Let us know what you think at kevin@cjn.org.

Kevin S. Adelstein is President of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company and publisher & CEO of Akron Jewish News. Paul Singerman is Board Chair of the CJPC.

VOL. 92 NO. 1 The AJN is distributed at the Shaw JCC and mailed to members of the Jewish community and members of the Shaw JCC. An online version is also available at akronjewishnews.com. The newspaper will be delivered the first week of every month.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 750 White Pond Drive, Akron, OH 44320-1195

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

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Akron Jewish News | February 2022

GOJO | 1 Kanfer Rolnick was named chief executive chair in 2018. She said she was able to work with Jerry Lippman prior to his death in 2005 at age 92.

As a 16-year-old, Kanfer Rolnick was able to visit the factory floor during school breaks, where she would build dispensers.

She also worked in the microbiology lab and in market research as summer break jobs.

As Kanfer Rolnick grew older into a full-time professional, she would spend time with Lippman, hearing stories of times that he had to make difficult calls or take a risk, and whether that risk paid off or not.

She described him as a “cheerleader” for everyone he worked with.

Kanfer Rolnick cited a quote Lippman used and that is still shared around the organization: “Everything I know, I learned from someone else.”

“He was curious and he understood other people,” said Kanfer Rolnick, a member of Romemu Brooklyn, which she co-founded in Brooklyn, N.Y., and Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue in Bath Township. “He saw the dignity in other people, he knew that he could learn something from them, and therefore be better, smarter and more successful in business. So he instilled that curiosity and that commitment to inherent dignity in me.”

Born and solidified in Akron, Kanfer Rolnick said GOJO’s roots are in the history of Akron, with the rubber industry giving it a start. The headquarters are still there.

With about 2,400 employees, Kanfer Rolnick said the company’s

purpose-driven mindset allows it to attract and retain the best talent.

“I feel tremendous pride that I get to work with the best people in the industry,” Kanfer Rolnick said. “And every day we are innovating, we are creative, we are problem solving, we are living our values, we are putting the inherent dignity of all people out there for us to strive to serve their needs.”

GOJO is perhaps as important as ever as the COVID-19 pandemic rages on through the United States and the world. Kanfer Rolnick said GOJO produced over three times as much Purell product in 2020 as it had in 2019 in response to the onset of the pandemic. The company also grown, going from one headquarters and two manufacturing and distribution centers to six facilities.

“It was comforting to be able to wake up in the morning knowing that our company was part of the response to a global pandemic,” Kanfer Rolnick said.

Kanfer Rolnick said unfortunately, the need for products that help keep people healthy is not going to go away. She said GOJO delivered an “astronomical amount” of over 140 billion uses of sanitizer, surface

GOJO senior advisor and president emeritus Mark Lerner, from left, Executive Chair Marcella Kanfer Rolnick, venturer Joe Kanfer, and President and CEO Carey Jaros | Submitted photos spray and wipes over the past few years.

GOJO has partnered with a number of nonprofit organizations in the Akron community for years, such as Akron Children’s Hospital and Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. Kanfer Rolnick said GOJO is committed to the local community and being part of the core infrastructure to support a healthy community.

Kanfer Rolnick’s family has supported The Lippman School in Akron, a multicultural Jewish community school. She attended the school in the early 1980s, along with her siblings. Kanfer Rolnick has also supported the nonprofit American Jewish World Service, a human rights organization that takes commitment to Jewish values and helps the developing world realize their human rights.

Kanfer Rolnick said an important piece of advice in getting to where she is today is being clear on your values and the kind of people that you want to spend time with, whether it be in business or philanthropy.

“It’s really important to be able to have internal alignment between the work that you do, the values that you hold, and the people you surround yourself with,” Kanfer Rolnick said.

At the beginning of 2020, GOJO launched the Goldie Fund, which as part of the GOJO Gives Back Campaign helps team members address urgent needs that were unforeseen.

Kanfer Rolnick said this commitment to the dignity of all people informs everything that her family does, their commitment to GOJO and to being purpose driven.

“I learned from Jerry and Joe the importance of giving back and of living our

Husband and wife team, Jerry and Goldie Lippman, co-founded GOJO Industries on March 6, 1946. Together, they built a thriving business that started with an idea to solve a single problem, “get dirty hands clean” and grew into hundreds of products, dispensers and educational programs to improve wellbeing through hand hygiene and healthy skin. values, not just through business but also through tzedakah,” Kanfer Rolnick said.

“And it’s very important. It’s a significant part of my life and hopefully the legacy that I’m passing down to my children.”

While GOJO relishes in its successes, it looks forward to the next 75 years.

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

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Akron Jewish News | February 2022

The AJN goes one-on-one with:

Erin Katz Ford | Beth El Congregation Executive Director JANE KAUFMAN Akron Jewish News

E

rin Katz Ford was hired in December 2021 as the first executive director of Beth El Congregation in Akron.

As such, she leads the Conservative synagogue with 206 member units at the Schultz Campus for Jewish Life, a hub of Akron Jewish life.

The Cuyahoga Falls resident shared her history with the congregation, her goals and hopes, and a bit Katz Ford about her life beyond Beth El with the Akron Jewish News in an interview conducted Jan. 18 via email.

AJN: What does this position mean to you – or what attracted you to the job?

Katz Ford: I started at Beth El in 2011 after my former congregation (Congregation Bethaynu) in Cleveland closed, which was very near and dear to me. There was an opening at Beth El and the

shorter commute was very enticing Cuyahoga Falls to west Akron was much shorter than Cuyahoga Falls to Pepper Pike. I found Beth El reminded me much of my previous congregation – the strong professional relationships, involvement of the lay leadership and the love of the congregation for the congregation.

I had a great working relationship with Rabbi Stephen Grundfast, Cantor Stephen Stein and Barbara Good, who have all since retired from Beth El. The relationships I created at Beth El were numerous and lasting. While I enjoyed working for the greater Jewish community, when I left in 2019, I missed my congregation and felt a hole. I was thrilled when I was contacted about coming back in a different role. I’m excited to work with Rabbi Jeremy Lipton and to see what wonderful things develop.

AJN: What are your goals?

Katz Ford: To ensure clear communication throughout the organization with clergy, staff, board members and congregants, an updated web/social media presence, increased membership and engagement, and updated/ expanded programming.

AJN: What’s your personal history with

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From time to time, the Akron Jewish News will sit down with news makers, community leaders or others who call the Akron-area home or have local roots. These are their stories.

Beth El? Katz Ford: I grew up down the road at Temple Israel, but became involved in the Conservative movement when I went to The Ohio State University. However, my parents were married at Beth El in 1970 and I have fond memories of going to b’nai mitzvahs of friends and family at Beth El over the years.

AJN: What about your professional history?

Katz Ford: In my previous role as the director of education and programming, I restarted Beth El’s sunday and school preschool program in 2013, and over the years grew our young family Shabbat dinners and religious school program.

In 2015, we went digital with a new website. We were also able to have a USY (United Synagogue Youth) presence make a comeback for a bit and even host events.

In addition, we introduced a host of new programs, including an annual Back to Shul Barbeque, festive Chanukah and Purim celebrations, expanding our annual raffle fundraiser with a silent auction and wine sale, Beth El adult education programming throughout the year, Shabbat Synaplex, 2nd Seder and other young family programming.

Above all, I’m a people connector. I know all of the congregants and what their passions are so that I can engage them in the areas that mean the most to them. Our congregants are what makes Beth El such a warm and caring community.

AJN: Tell me about your background?

Katz Ford: I graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Jewish studies and hold a master’s degree in Jewish education from Siegal College. I have been in Northeast Ohio just about my whole life. Before Beth El, I worked at Congregation Bethaynu in Pepper Pike. I served as Beth El’s director of programming and education from 2011 to 2019, and was the Jewish Community Board of Akron’s director of external affairs from 2019 to 2021.

AJN: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Katz Ford: In my spare time, I share chauffeur driving responsibilities with my husband for my children. Our family enjoys being outdoors and taking advantage of the Summit Metro Parks system as well as the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I even ran my first half marathon this year.

Beth El to host 41st annual raffle virtually Feb. 13 JANE KAUFMAN Akron Jewish News

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eth El Congregation of Akron will hold its 41st annual raffle Feb. 13.

A $150 ticket entitles the participant to a brunch box for two and entry into a virtual live drawing at 12:30 p.m.

Brunch boxes must be reserved by email or telephone. Curbside pickup will be available from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Feb. 13. The brunch box includes bagels, lox, cream cheese, rugelach, fresh fruit, salad and chocolate chip cookies.

Rob Minster, who serves on the raffle committee, said the raffle is a major piece of funding for Beth El each year.

“It’s been certainly our largest fundraiser over the last 40 years,” said Minster, estimating it has raised $1.25 million over the 40 years.

While the synagogue has launched other fundraisers, “none as continually successful as the raffle,” Minster told the Akron Jewish News.

He said before the COVID-19 pandemic, the raffle was part of a larger in-person event including a brunch, a silent auction and a Super Bowl betting opportunity.

“We don’t raise that much from the silent auction and certainly not much from the Super

Bowl squares,” he said.

Minster said the synagogue couldn’t hold the silent auction in-person either in 2021 or in 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We really were hoping to be able to return to an in-person event this year, but we held off as long as we felt we could and determined that relying on an in-person event would be not wise and too difficult to switch to a different format at the last minute,” he said.

In addition, he said Beth El relies on the support of its members, the general Jewish community in Akron and beyond.

“A lot of the tickets are sold outside of the Jewish community,” he said. “We have members who have friends and others who have business connections that they sold tickets to over the years and certainly ... many of those folks have won over the years. We could not survive just on the generosity of Beth El members. I think success has come because we have had ... broader support. Part of it is because the brunch itself has been very good and well attended.”

To RSVP, call 330-864-2105, ext .118, or email rafflebrunch@gmail.com.

Checks may be made payable to Beth El Congregation and mailed to Rob Minster, 1980 E. Woodland Drive, Akron, OH 44313.

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

The Lippman School offers a Transitional Kindergarten through Eighth Grade independent school education.

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Keep your New Year's Resolution strong with VIBE Fit at The Shaw JCC of Akron! It’s our goal (if it is yours) to start you and support you on a good path to transforming your fitness routine and your body composition. Classes begin February 21 and run for 6 weeks. Go to shawjcc.org/vibe-fit to learn more.

The consistency of these exercise sessions will result in: • Increased cardiovascular & muscular strength and endurance • Increased muscular endurance & stamina • Increased flexibility & better balance Registration for Camp JCC is open now! 10 weeks of Camp: June 6-August 12. Reserve your spot in our traditional camp, specialty camps (including arts, STEM and sports camps) or our BRAND-NEW Pre-Teen Track.

Mix and match camp programs, sign up for as many different camps and weeks as you wish.

Different experiences are provided on a weekly/bi-weekly basis to ensure your child has the opportunity to experience everything Camp JCC has to offer!

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Akron Jewish News | February 2022

Weinstein: ‘Christian veterans’ protest at home antisemitic STEPHEN LANGEL Akron Jewish News

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ep. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson, one of two Jewish members of the Ohio House, called out the approximately 30 to 40 men who showed up in front of his house Jan. 23 for attempting to intimidate him and scaring his children in an act he said went too far.

The men, who showed up in an estimated 30 vehicles across the street from Weinstein’s home in Weinstein Hudson, spent 45 minutes marching with flags, including with one that said, in part, to “kneel for the cross.”

Weinstein said that when a neighbor approached the men to ask what they were doing, some of the men identified themselves as “Christian veterans” who were there “to make Casey Weinstein be better.” According to Weinstein, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, when the neighbor asked what they meant by making

Weinstein “better,” they did not have an answer.

The men also walked to the front of Weinstein’s lawn, watching him and taking pictures and video of him and his home.

Weinstein told the Akron Jewish News the only other public official he knows of who has received this kind of treatment was Dr. Amy Acton, the former Ohio Department of Health director, who is also Jewish.

“They came to my home on Sunday, as ‘Christian veterans’ ... in a show of force trying to intimidate me, very similar to what they did with Dr. Acton,” which Weinstein described as an act of antisemitism. “And, as a Jewish man that’s how I take it.”

Weinstein said he immediately called the police, who told him not to engage with the men.

The police then asked the men to clear the road they were blocking and drove by a few more times. But, the police told Weinstein they could not do anything more unless the men stepped onto his property, he said.

While Weinstein said he supports protesting and believes in the importance of the First Amendment, he said these people crossed a line.

“It was clearly a coordinated thing to show up at my house when my family would be home,” he

A group of men protest outside of Rep. Casey Weinstein’s Hudson home Jan. 23. | Submitted photo said. “To come here and scare my kids, it’s just so far beyond the pale,” adding that his 4-yearold daughter asked him after the incident if he was sure he could keep her safe. People need to “understand the difference between a right and what’s right to do,” he said.

For Weinstein, he said incidents like this are signs of both the degradation of political dialogue and the rise of antisemitism.

“I think this intimidation factor ... the weaponization of the flag, like one side owning the flag ... is escalatory,” he said.

Despite this, Weinstein said he is grateful for how the community has responded to the incident.

“There’s been an outpouring of support from

the community,” he said. “It’s been wonderful.”

Weinstein said he has spoken to the AntiDefamation League about looking into the matter.

James Pasch, the regional director of the Anti-Defamation League in Cleveland, told the AJN that the ADL is investigating the matter, using photos and videos that Weinstein provided.

“I don’t see why you can’t protest outside of the state house or something of that nature and not at the place where people’s children are,” Pasch said of the incident. “I don’t know what it accomplishes. I was immediately concerned for the safety and well being of both Representative Weinstein and his family.”

Akron nears goals for annual campaign; looks to Super Sunday STEPHEN LANGEL Akron Jewish News

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he Jewish Community Board of Akron has nearly met its $1.4 million 2022 annual campaign goal, having raised $1.1 million since its Nov. 4 kickoff.

This success is the result of a tight knit group of residents committed to strengthening the local Jewish community, the campaign’s co-chairs, Dianne Newman and David Stock, told the Akron Jewish News.

“Akronites are very Akron-centered,” Newman said. “We can’t look to other communities for assistance. So, it’s important we support all our agencies through the campaign.”

Stock agreed, referring to “the pride that we take here in Akron” in “developing and building our community.”

On Feb. 27, the campaign’s Super Sunday fundraising event will take place.

Newman and Stock said the campaign benefits Akron Jewish agencies and institutions, along with national and international programming. The campaign provides funding to local institutions including the Shaw JCC of Akron; The Lippman School, the Jewish day school that serves students through eighth grade; Jewish Family Service of Akron; Ohio Jewish Communities; both Kent State Hillel and

Newman

Stock

University of Akron Hillel; and Rubber City Jews, a young professionals group. It also provides support to Akron’s Israeli sister city Kiryat Ekron.

During COVID-19, these agencies have become even more crucial, as organizations like JFS “did a lot of programming so that people weren’t so isolated,” Newman said.

Some of the JFS programs the campaign helped support included providing volunteers to help the elderly set up computers, and teaching them how to use Zoom and other technology so they could participate in virtual programming.

JFS provided such programming two to three times a week, including chair yoga, travelogue movies with discussions afterward, book clubs and music programs. The campaign also helped support a pantry to provide food to the elderly.

Stock said there was a social connection between the younger and older members of the

community during COVID-19 that speaks to the strength of the Jewish community in Akron. For example, a music student from Akron went to elderly residents’ driveways to play cello for them, he said.

The campaign fundraising also supports a program, J-Ticket, that is meant to make living Jewishly more affordable, Stock said.

J-Ticket provides, for an annual fee, access to a variety of programs at reduced costs. This includes the Mandel Early Childhood Education program at the Shaw JCC or The Lippman School, and the Shaw JCC traditional Jewish day camp or the Mandel ECE Summer Playhouse.

It also includes membership at a participating synagogue. Families also receive a $250 program voucher gift card to be used for fees for any program, event or activity in the Akron Jewish community held by any participating Jewish organization, agency or synagogue in Akron.

“Not only does it make being part of Jewish life in Akron affordable, it helps develop the young adult community,” Stock said.

Beyond the annual fee, participants are also required to commit a minimum of $180 to the annual campaign.

There is also Silver J for Jewish Akron seniors, Newman said. That program provides low-income seniors with transportation and limited home maintenance assistance, such as

fixing faucets, changing light bulbs and others.

These programs are not only supported by the campaign, but also through a $10 million gift from the late Albert and Janet Schultz, formerly of Akron, Newman said.

She said the campaign goal should be met as soon as the end of February, in part because of how supportive the community is.

“We still get contributions from people who grew up in Akron, but no longer live here or who have lived here for a period of time and moved to Florida or Arizona to the warm climates,” she said.

To learn more about J-Ticket, visit bit.ly/3g3dNmW.

Super Sunday Feb. 27 Super Sunday will be held Feb. 27 when volunteers will be calling on their telephones trying to reach as many donors as possible. For those who would like to make a donation online, visit bit.ly/3tSSe0C or call the Jewish Community Board of Akron at 330-835-0003. Volunteers are also needed. If you would like to help by making calls in person or remotely, call 330-835-0003.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

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Comparisons to Holocaust part of troubling current trend STEPHEN LANGEL Akron Jewish News

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ccording to state Rep. David Leland, D-Columbus, and other Jewish lawmakers and advocates throughout Ohio, the growing number of incidents where opponents of COVID-19 pandemicrelated public health measures use the Holocaust as part of their rhetoric is a troubling sign of a broader problem.

Leland As we near the two-year anniversary of when COVID-19 first entered the country, with increasing frequency opponents of public health measures to combat the pandemic, such as vaccines, face masks and social distancing, are Shapiro comparing the measures to the persecution Jews faced during the Holocaust.

The most recent local incident involved U.S. Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Troy – who in response to a Jan. 11 tweet from Washington, D.C. Mayor Weinstein Muriel Bowser reminding residents that proof of vaccination will soon be

required to enter many business in the city – compared the requirement to the Holocaust.

That included Davidson’s Jan. 12 tweet: “Let’s recall that the Nazis dehumanized Jewish people before segregating them, segregated them before imprisoning them, imprisoned them before enslaving them, and enslaved them before massacring them.”

For Leland, one of two Jewish state lawmakers, Davidson’s comments speak to a broader problem in the nation.

“We’re in an existential battle in this country right now, for the preservation of our democracy, and the preservation of the rule of law,” Leland said during a Jan. 13 virtual Q&A as part of Ohio Jewish Communities’ briefings with members of the Ohio House Jewish Caucus. “And when you’re in those kind of fights, the truth is always the first casualty.”

The briefing was hosted by the Cleveland Jewish News, Columbus Jewish News, The Dayton Jewish Observer and Ohio Jewish Communities. The event was organized by Howie Beigelman, executive director of OJC in Columbus.

Davidson’s “stupid, obscene and hurtful comments” are “just part of the overall picture that what’s happening in this country, where our institutions – things that we thought that we just took for granted as Americans – are continually under assault,” Leland said.

Beigelman said he and representatives from other Jewish organizations have reached out to Davidson to discuss the matter.

“I spoke with him (Jan. 13) and he was remorseful,” Beigelman said. “We discussed how passionate debate in the public square is expected, but we can’t be making Holocaust comparisons or linkage to Nazi Germany.

That cheapens the memory of what is history’s

Intel to build $20 billion chip plant in Central Ohio BOB JACOB Akron Jewish News

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hipmaker Intel announced Jan. 21 that it will invest $20 billion to build a new factory in New Albany in Licking County, Ohio, in an attempt to help alleviate a global shortage of chips.

The move by the Santa Clara, Calif.-based company could create a technology hub in Central Ohio as related businesses open plants.

The facilities are expected to be completed by 2025 and are estimated to bring more than 20,000 new jobs to Central Ohio and $2.8 billion in income for the state, according to a news release.

Ohio Rep. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson, told the Akron Jewish News that he sees the investment as not only a major victory for the region, but also a catalyst for even greater growth.

Weinstein called the news “a terrific win for Ohio,” adding the Intel project could serve as “the anchor point of what looks like could be a potentially new industry” for the region. He said that while the benefits of having Intel in Central Ohio are “absolutely fantastic” it is important that there is “equitable access to the jobs.”

• To read more about Intel’s impact on Ohio, visit akronjewishnews.com and look for more in the March issue of the Akron Jewish News.

worst genocide, and it trivializes the sacrifice of liberators, the struggle of survivors and the memory of the victims. ... We have to relearn how to debate civilly on the issues at hand.

Sure it’s harder to find facts and actually focus on issues. But we need to.”

Davidson issued an apology Jan. 13 on Twitter, stating in part, “Bad things happen when governments dehumanize people. Sometimes, there is a next step – to systematically segregate them. Unfortunately, any reference to how the Nazis actually did that prevents a focus on anything other than the Holocaust. I appreciate my Jewish friends who have explained their perspectives and feel horrible that I have offended anyone. My sincere apologies.”

Lee C. Shapiro, regional director of American Jewish Committee Cleveland, agreed such language degrades the public dialogue.

“Lobbing rhetorical firebombs will only reinforce the positions of the loudest opponents of vaccines and mandates,” Shapiro told the CJN Jan. 13. “There is nothing wrong with having a difference of opinion, but when you support your position with references to the systematic extermination of millions of innocent people, that’s when it’s apparent your moral compass is way off the mark. It’s a road we cannot go down.”

State Rep. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson, the other Jewish member of the Ohio House, told the CJN Jan. 13 such language “is dangerous and shows a willful ignorance of the reality of the Holocaust.” Using such language also sets a bad example for these lawmakers’ constituents that can harm them, he said, regarding earlier references to the Holocaust.

“We’re supposed to model good citizenship, right,” Weinstein said. “So when you’re telling them, ‘Do not comply,’ ironically, you’re inspiring people to continue this pandemic because there will be millions of Ohioans that don’t get shots that allow for continued variation and spread of the virus.

So, it’s a great irony that by like thumbing their nose at it, they are prolonging it.”

Shapiro agreed that such behavior by lawmakers can be especially problematic.

“Words matter,” she said. “And they matter more when they are being said by politicians with a national platform. Rep. Davidson needs to be accountable for his divisive and offensive rhetoric, especially at a time when antisemitism is on the rise in this country.”

To read a longer version of this story, visit akronjewishnews.com

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AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

Temple Israel sells old building to local developer AMANDA KOEHN Akron Jewish News

T

emple Israel recently sold its longtime former building at 133 Merriman Road in Akron to a local developer with experience in repurposing historic buildings.

The Merriman Road building is more than 100 years old and was the temple’s home until it moved to 91 Springside Drive in Bath Township just ahead of Yom Kippur in 2014.

Mirman The sale closed in December in the amount of $500,000 with financing to the buyer, according to an email from the temple.

“We are excited to see the building be developed by the new owners for the greater good of the Akron community,” said Temple Israel co-presidents Neumann Andrew Mirman and Elaine Neumann in the email to the Akron Jewish News.

Public records indicate the owner is Temple Hall Revival Group LLC. The Merriman Road space will always be a part of the congregation’s defining history, the

Registration is open for Camp JCC, which will be held from June 6 to Aug. 12.

Different experiences are provided on a weekly and biweekly basis to ensure children in kindergarten through fifth grade can experience everything Camp JCC has to offer.

Cost is $240 for Shaw JCC members and $330 for nonmembers per week. Early-bird pricing through Feb. 17 includes a discount of $20 per week. Also, anyone who joins the JCC now can save $60 per week. To register, visit bit.ly/32lco85.

Arts and crafts, swimming, free choice, structured-themed activities and physical education will take place throughout the day.

The Shaw JCC is at 750 White Pond Drive in Akron.

Forum 360 presents ‘Pharmacist’s View of Implicit Bias’ Congregants of Temple Israel carry the nine Torah scrolls from their old Merriman Road home in Akron to their new building more than 6 miles away in Bath Township on Sept. 28, 2014. | Photo | Cleveland Jewish News / Bob Jacob co-presidents said, and notably, children who grew up in that building have since become community leaders.

A Reform congregation with nearly 400 family units, the Springside Drive building’s highlights include up-to-date amenities, all on one floor, the co-presidents said.

Upon its move to Springside Drive in 2014, congregants marched the temple’s nine Torah scrolls from the old building to the new one, followed by a dedication ceremony, the Cleveland Jewish News reported at the time.

“We have truly amazing congregants that volunteer their time and passion to make Temple Israel what it is today, which are led by our wonderful clergy,” Mirman and Neumann said.

“We look forward to making many more great memories for the current and future generations to enjoy.”

Hertz begins term on Copley-Fairlawn School Board BOB JACOB Akron Jewish News

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eth T. Hertz was sworn in as a first-time member of the Copley-Fairlawn School Board Jan. 11.

She received 1,988 votes, or 21.2%, in the Nov. 2 general election, according to final results from the Summit County Board of Elections.

Incumbents James Borchik received 2,276 votes, or 24.3%, and Paula Lynn earned 1,867 votes, or 20%, to retain seats on the school board.

Hertz posted a statement on Facebook after winning her seat: “Thank you to everyone who supported me in this election! It truly was a community effort and I can’t wait to get started serving on this Board of Education! I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family and all the friends and teachers who helped in so many ways. Congratulations also to Jim

Camp JCC registration underway

Forum 360 will present “A Pharmacist’s View of Implicit Bias.”

The show will be broadcast at 6 a.m. Feb. 6 on WONE Radio 97.5 FM and on WAKR 1590 AM at 7 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Feb. 6, and 12:30 a.m. Feb. 7.

The show will be televised on Western Reserve Public Media, PBS/Fusion channels 45/49 at 8 p.m. Feb. 7 and 5 p.m. Feb. 12.

Mommy & Me at Anshe Sfard Thursdays in February

Kaila Sasonkin and Mussie Sasonkin will lead Mommy & Me for newborns to 3 year olds at Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue in Bath Township from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17 and 24.

Cost is $10 per session. There will be music and movement, Jewish songs and prayers, hands-on activities and outdoor fun. Snacks will be provided.

To RSVP, email akronshul.com/momandme.

The synagogue is at 646 N. Revere Road.

Chippewa Lake Polar Bear Jump, 5K Run/Walk Feb. 19

The 12th annual Chippewa Lake Polar Bear Jump and 5K Run/Walk will take place Feb. 19 starting at the Village Inn Chippewa Lake at 5875 Longacre Lane.

The theme for the 2022 fundraiser is “Chippy is Back” to commemorate the event’s return to inperson format. Last year, the event raised over $50,000 for local charities and low-income families in the area. This year’s fundraiser has five charity fundraising components, including a 5K run/walk and polar plunge participation, sponsorships, a charity raffle, a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle.

For donation and registration information, visit chippewalakelions.com.

Anshe Sfard Shabbat family experience Feb. 25

Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue in Bath Township will hold a young family Shabbat experience at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 25.

There will be food, fun, family, friends and prayer. The event is open to the community.

The event is free, but RSVPs are required to akronshul.com/shabbat.

The synagogue is at 646 N. Revere Road.

Torah & Tea to be held Tuesdays in February

Torah & Tea, a weekly women’s get-together for Torah, tea and inspiration, will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22.

Refreshments will be served and donations are welcome.

To RSVP, email office@akronshul.com. The program at Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue in Bath Township is held in memory of Ellen Migdal.

The synagogue is at 646 N. Revere Road.

Mishloach manot available through March 4 Copley-Fairlawn School Board president Paul Cevasco swears in Beth Hertz at the board meeting Jan. 11. | Photo | Joshua Hertz Borchik and Paula Maynard Lynn on your reelection! We have an amazing school district and I am committed to working to help it achieve even greater things in the future. Thanks all!”

Publisher’s note: Beth T. Hertz is the wife of David Hertz, immediate past board chair of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company Board of Directors.

Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue will send mishloach manot, or Purim gift bags, in March.

Deadline to order is March 4 and mishloach manot will be delivered during the week of March 13.

Cost is $5 per box.

To order, email akronshul.com/manot or call 330-867-7292.

Hamantaschen bake sale order deadline March 4

A hamantaschen bake sale will be held by Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue in Bath Township.

Order deadline is March 4 and pick up date is March 13. Cost is $12 per dozen.

To order, email akronshul.com/hamantash.

Submit your meetings, programs and events for Around the Community at cjn.org/akron and click "Submit Your News," or email information to editorial@akronjn.org.

OPINION

Colleyville teaches us we must be prepared REGINA BRETT Akron Jewish News Columnist

The more we know, the more chilling it gets.

Another synagogue visited by terror. A synagogue under attack near Fort Worth, Texas. Hostages taken. Eleven hours of negotiations. A gunman ordering hostages to kneel.

This time, the ending changed. This time, the training kicked in. This time, the hostages freed themselves.

Early in the day, a stranger knocked on the door. It was chilly out, so Rabbi Charlie CytronWalker let the man in and served him tea. Later, during prayer when the rabbi turned to face Jerusalem, he heard a “click.”

That’s when the gun came out. And that’s when the training clicked in.

“When your life is threatened, you need to do whatever you can to get to safety, to get out,” the rabbi told CBS Morning News.

That training turned the gentle rabbi into Rambo at just the right moment.

In interviews and on his Facebook page, the rabbi shared what unfolded at Congregation Beth Israel synagogue in Colleyville, Texas, during Shabbat on Jan. 15: A man held a gun on four hostages while ranting and yelling at negotiators on the phone.

The hostages feared for their lives.

The training kicked in for the rabbi. When he was told to sit down, he picked a seat near an exit. When he was able to rub a fellow hostage’s shoulders, he whispered about using the exit door.

When pizza was delivered, he told a hostage to get it and stay close to the door. The rabbi scooted chairs closer to him to block shrapnel or bullets.

When the gunman asked for something to drink, the rabbi went in the kitchen to look for juice. After he gave the gunman a drink, he saw the gun was no longer in a good position and knew it was their best chance.

When the gunman told them to get on their knees, the rabbi slowly mouthed, “NO” and told the hostages to run. Then he picked up a chair and threw it at the gunman and bolted for the door 20 feet away.

“It was absolutely terrifying,” he told CNN. “I wasn’t sure if I was going to be shot.”

Was it a terrorist act? A hate crime against Jews?

A mental illness breakdown? Or all of the above?

The New York Times reported that the gunman, Malik Faisal Akram, was arrested at age 19, spent time in an offender’s institute and six months in prison for swinging a baseball bat at

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February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

his family. He was a Muslim of Pakistani descent.

Investigators are exploring the gunman’s fixation with Aafia Siddiqui, who he ranted about during negotiations. Siddiqui, a Pakistani, is serving 86 years in a prison near Fort Worth for trying to kill U.S. Army officers in Afghanistan.

Sadly, this is the new normal. There are violent antisemites who want to kill Jewish people. There are mentally disturbed people who turn violent. There is easy access to weapons that can kill dozens of people in mere seconds.

Attacks can happen anywhere and to anyone: A Las Vegas outdoor concert, 58 dead. An Orlando nightclub, 49 dead. Virginia Tech, 32 dead.

Sandy Hook Elementary, 27 dead. A Baptist Church in Texas, 26 dead. A Walmart in El Paso, 22 dead.

A high school in Parkland, 17 dead. A nightclub in California, 12 dead. A theater in Colorado, 12 dead.

A synagogue in Pittsburgh, 11 dead.

But for Jewish people, there’s a before Tree of Life and an after.

We’re living in the after.

Synagogues no longer feel safe after a man with an AR-15 style assault rifle and handguns murdered 11 people at the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh in 2018.

Cytron-Walker credited his survival to training he got from the local police, the FBI, the Anti-Defamation League and the Secure Community Network that helps Jewish institutions stay safe all over the country.

All those courses helped him have a calm presence and the courage and know-how to act and flee. He compared it to having CPR training. You hope you never need it, but you’re ready if you do.

We must all be prepared to protect each other. We need to take a course on what to do in an active shooter situation. We need to know basic first aid. And always and everywhere, know where the exits are and the quickest way to escape if needed.

We have to be ready for everything, but not let fear keep us from going about our lives to shop, to play, to learn, to worship.

We need to be prepared. It’s our new civic duty.

Connect with Regina on Facebook at ReginaBrettFans and sign up for her weekly newsletter at reginabrett.com.

DISCLAIMER The Akron Jewish News does not make endorsements of political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Akron Jewish News do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, the Jewish Community Board of Akron, its boards, officers or staffs.

I’m back in the Rubber City What a joy to return to Akron to write for the Akron Jewish News.

I wrote for the Beacon Journal from 1986 until 2000. That’s where I became a columnist, in 1994. I still know the phone number to Luigi’s pizza by heart, still brag about getting to fly the Goodyear blimp and have never forgotten the smell of tires and rolling up our car windows when my dad drove us from our home in Ravenna to downtown Akron.

I’m not Jewish, but my husband, Bruce

is. We live in Cleveland, but he still talks about the wooden escalator at O’Neil’s downtown, why Tallmadge Parkway became Memorial Parkway and his bar mitzvah at Temple Israel. His parents told him they were the fifth Jewish family in Bath when they moved there in 1966, then on to Canton in 1968.

When I was a reporter, my “beat” was the human heart. It still is. I hope you join me here as we let life challenge and inspire us.

- Regina

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OPINION

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

Iranian AMIA fugitive feted by Latin America’s far-left BEN COHEN

Akron Jewish News Columnist

T

he embrace between the authoritarian left in Latin America and the Islamist regime in Iran is as tight as ever, as evidenced at the inauguration in Managua last week of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega.

Now 76 years old, Ortega has been a fixture of Nicaraguan politics since the Sandinista revolution of 1979 that overthrew the dictatorship of Anastasio Somoza. At last November’s election, Ortega won a fourth term in office in a ballot that was marred by voter fraud and the suppression of opposition political parties.

One of the many photographs snapped at Ortega’s Jan. 10 inauguration ceremony showed a proverbial rogues gallery.

Smirking and flashing victory signs as they flanked a relaxed-looking Ortega were Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela’s disputed president; Miguel Diaz-Canel, the president of Cuba; and Mohsen Rezaei, Iran’s vice president for economic development.

Rezaei is a fugitive from terrorism charges and can be legitimately arrested in any country where he arrives. But in Managua, he was celebrated and feted by his natural allies – all of them, like the rulers of Iran, serial abusers of human rights who have immiserated their countries economically and spiritually through decades of one-party rule.

In 2007, Rezaei was one of six Iranian operatives who became the subjects of “Red Notices” – official arrest requests issued by Interpol, the international law-enforcement agency – for their role in the July 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish center in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires. Eightyfive people were killed and more than 300 wounded when a truck rammed with

explosives rammed into the AMIA building, in the worst single act of antisemitic terrorism since World War II. The AMIA atrocity in turn generated a saga of frustrated justice for the next quarter-century. Now, nearly 28 years after the bombing, not a single Iranian has been convicted in the wake of four separate and fundamentally flawed judicial trials in Argentina, while Alberto Nisman – the courageous Argentine federal prosecutor who unmasked his own government’s collusion with Tehran in the years after the bombing – was assassinated in January 2015.

Rezaei, however, continues to travel the world as a representative of the Iranian theocracy that he has faithfully served throughout his career. Indeed, the AMIA bombing was one his productions; in the summer of 1993, when he served as commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, he was reported to have attended a meeting of Iranian leaders in the city of Mashhad. It was at that meeting – hosted by the late former Iranian President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani – that the decision to bomb the AMIA building was discussed and approved.

Of the six AMIA terrorists subjected to Interpol “Red Notices” – an achievement that can largely be credited to Nisman – only one is dead: Imad Mughniyeh, the Hezbollah commander who was killed by a car bomb in Syria in 2008. Alongside Rezaei in the Iranian cabinet is another AMIA fugitive and “Red Notice” subject, Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi. And whispering on a daily basis in the ear of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is his senior adviser, Ali Akbar Velayati. At the time of the

A K R O N

JEWISH COMMUNITY BOARD OF AKRON Thom Mandel, Board Chair CLEVELAND JEWISH PUBLICATION COMPANY Paul J. Singerman, Board Chair Kevin S. Adelstein, President Adam Mandell, Vice President of Sales Akron Jewish News is published monthly by the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company on behalf of the Jewish Community Board of Akron. The CJPC also publishes Cleveland Jewish News and Columbus Jewish News.

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AMIA bombing, Velayati was Iran’s foreign minister, and it was in that capacity that he also attended the 1993 meeting in Mashhad.

In 2006, an Argentine federal judge issued an arrest warrant for Velayati in connection with the AMIA bombing. When Velayati visited Moscow in 2018 for talks with leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Argentine government implored the Russians – to no avail of course – to arrest and extradite him for trial in Buenos Aires. As with Rezaei in Managua, Velayati’s jaunt to Moscow and his subsequent unimpeded return to Tehran was another demonstration of the Iranian regime’s swaggering conviction that it will never be held to account for the AMIA slaughter.

Yet for as long as the AMIA fugitives are alive, they should be actively hunted down by law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Officials in those countries that greet as honored guests Rezaei, Vahidi, Velayati and other Iranians with proven terror links should be subjected to diplomatic and economic sanctions, as should those Nicaraguan and Cuban companies who will be receiving Iranian assistance as part of Rezaei’s “economic development” mission.

The appearance of Rezaei in Nicaragua is also an occasion to again voice concern about the alliance between Iran and the far-left in Latin America. As symbolized by the “bromance” more than a decade ago between the former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the late Venezuelan caudillo, Hugo Chávez, the relationship is moored in anti-American and antisemitic ideology, but it has realworld consequences. Among them are the presence of Hezbollah terror cells in Latin America and the collaboration between Iran, Venezuela and Cuba in attempting to

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circumvent Western sanctions.

Above all, the relationship illuminates the malign nature of an anti-democratic bloc of nations, all of whom complain loudly about imagined infringements of their sovereignty while promoting terrorism and instability outside of their borders, and unvarnished repression within them. During the last year, Iran, in addition to Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua, has all been the sites of mass protests by disaffected citizens that were brutally crushed by the authorities.

That has been the pattern for several years now, and the leaders of these countries understandably feel a degree of satisfaction that regime change – whether by outside intervention, internal revolution or some combination thereof – has remained elusive.

But were Rezaei, Vahidi or any of the other suspects to be detained and extradited next time they travel abroad, that would at least send a timely reminder to the mullahs that they are not untouchable. All it takes is for one of the nations on the flight path of an Iranian government jet to force it to land.

Who will summon the courage?

Ben Cohen is a New York City-based journalist and author who writes a weekly column on Jewish and international affairs for JNS.

DISCLAIMER The Akron Jewish News does not make endorsements of political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Akron Jewish News do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, the Jewish Community Board of Akron, its boards, officers or staffs.

Board Chair: Paul J. Singerman BOARD OF DIRECTORS Vice Chairs: Loren Chylla, Rabbi Rosette Barron Haim, Dennis A. Linden, Harvey Siegel Treasurer: Lawrence M. Hirsh Assistant Treasurer: Susan D. Krantz Secretary: Becky Watts Directors: Ilene Butensky Brehm, Michael Broidy, Shari Loveman Goldberg, Meredith Hillman, Jessa Hochman, Kate Hubben, Jackie Jacobs, Ari H. Jaffe, Sharon Sobol Jordan, Ethan Karp, Dustin Klein, Michele Krantz, Emily Lebowitz, Gregg A. Levine, Greg Marcus, Adam Miller,

Aaron Minc, David Minc, David Posner, Lauren B. Rock, David J. Sherriff, Scott Simon, James A. Strassman, Ronald J. Teplitzky (ex officio), Nancy B. Udelson, Arthur A. Weisman, Susan Paley Zak Past Chairs/Honorary Life Directors: Max Axelrod*, Barry R. Chesler, Donald K. Freedheim, Marc W. Freimuth, Peggy Garson, victor gelb*, Bruce M. Hennes, David R. Hertz II, Martin Marcus, Michael A. Ritter, Lloyd Schwenger*, Gary Shamis, Wilton S. Sogg*, Harold S. Stern*, Norman Wain*, James M. Yasinow*, Ben D. Zevin* *of blessed memory

OPINION

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

Israel’s second booster a shot in the arm CLIFF SAVREN Akron Jewish News Columnist

I

srael has chalked up a number of firsts in its relatively short history, and this month there was another. It became the first country in the world to begin mass vaccination of people 60 and over with a second COVID booster shot. That included me.

The coronavirus pandemic has exposed the weaknesses in health care systems around the world, but in Israel’s case, it has also exposed its strength.

The country has an amazing public health system delivered through four nonprofit HMOs. In this pandemic, what is particularly powerful about the system is patient health records are computerized so health trends can be tracked easily and individual patients at particularly high risk can be identified and contacted.

Pfizer showered the country with its vaccine early on, as the perfect place to show its product worked. Now the world will be looking to Israel as data begins coming in over the next month regarding the effectiveness of the second booster.

My wife and I got vaccinated with a second booster on a Saturday morning earlier this month at one of our HMO’s health clinics in Netanya, about a 20-minute drive from where we live. It was kind of thrilling to be among the first in the world to get the second booster shot.

When my number was called, I entered the office of a nurse who asked my name, as is routine to ensure the patient card with the magnetic stripe I had presented was mine. And then came her response: “Clifford,” she mused.

“It sounds like the name of a movie star.” Israelis generally have Hebrew names, and I am only aware of one other Clifford in the country.

Nearly half-a-million Israelis have received the second booster. If the computerized medical data from Israel shows the second booster significantly reduces the risk of serious illnesses, not only will I feel better protected, but I would expect that U.S. authorities will follow Israel’s lead.

But things aren’t entirely rosy in Israel at the moment. The decision to launch the second booster campaign was made when it was

AJN MAILBOX Akron Jewish News deal lauded

Cliff Savren is formerly from Northeast Ohio who covers the Middle East for the Akron Jewish News from Ra’anana, Israel. He is an editor at Haaretz. To read more of Savren’s columns, visit cjn.org/savren.

DISCLAIMER

The Akron Jewish News does not make endorsements of political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Akron Jewish News do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, the Jewish Community Board of Akron, its boards, officers or staffs.

To write a letter to the editor, contact editorial@akronjn.org or 216-454-8300

the CJN’s commitment to news of interest to its local Jewish community.

I urge the CJPC to follow up on its digitizing of the Cleveland Jewish News by undertaking a digitization of the Akron Jewish News archives, so these can be available to historians and genealogists.

Eric Mack Jerusalem

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Kol hakavod to the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company for agreeing to publish the Akron Jewish News. As a native Akronite (and Akronism) now living in Jerusalem, I have relied on the Akron Jewish News website for news from the Akron Jewish community. As a longtime Clevelander and former subscriber to the Cleveland Jewish News, I have appreciated

obvious that the omicron variant was going to engulf the country – and within a matter of days, it has. The daily count of new COVID cases in Israel – which has a slightly smaller population than Ohio – topped 48,000 Jan. 12.

In Ohio on that day, the figure was less than half that at 20,093. But the death toll in Israel from the pandemic as of Jan. 12 stood at 8,290 compared to Ohio’s 30,435.

Because the government is now relying on home testing kits for much of the population, Eran Segal, a computational biologist at the Weizmann Institute of Science, said last week the real daily infection numbers are substantially higher. More chillingly, he predicted that 2 million to 4 million Israelis – in a country of 9 million – could contract COVID in the current wave of the pandemic.

So, the situation in Israel is a mixed picture.

I am working from home, as is my wife, and we have drastically limited our contacts with others, withdrawing a dinner invitation to a friend, for example.

It never occurred to me that we would still be in the midst of a pandemic two years after the coronavirus surfaced, but when all is said and done, Israel has been extremely well-positioned to deal with it. It should weather the current wave well compared to the rest of the world, and if I could choose any country in which to ride it out, Israel would probably be at the top of the list.

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16

WORLD NEWS

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

UN approves Israeli resolution combating Holocaust denial JNS.ORG

T

he U.N. General Assembly recently adopted an Israeli-sponsored resolution that condemns denial and distortion of the Holocaust.

The resolution – co-sponsored by Germany, and backed by the United States, Russia and many other countries – affirms that the Holocaust “will forever be a warning to all people of the dangers of hatred, bigotry, racism and prejudice.”

The text also points out the “growing prevalence of Holocaust denial or distortion through the use of information and communications technologies,” and urges all U.N. members to “reject without any reservation any denial or distortion of the Holocaust as a historical event, either in full or in part, or any activities to this end.”

Its passage also came on the 80th anniversary of the Wannsee Conference, where Nazi leaders coordinated plans for the so-called “Final Solution of the Jewish Question” in 1942.

The resolution commends nations that have worked to preserve the memory of the Holocaust and calls on all U.N. members “to develop educational programs that will inculcate future generations with the lessons of the Holocaust in order to help to prevent future acts of genocide” and encourages “social-media companies to take active measures to combat antisemitism and Holocaust denial or distortion.”

The 193-member world body approved the resolution by consensus, meaning no vote was taken. Iran, which has supported Holocaust denial, “disassociated” itself from the resolution. Its passage also came on the 80th anniversary of the

Wannsee Conference, where Nazi leaders coordinated plans for the so-called “Final Solution of the Jewish Question” in 1942.

“We now live in an era in which fiction is becoming fact and the Holocaust is becoming a distant memory,” Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan told the world body. “And as this happens following the greatest crime in human history, now comes the greatest cover-up in human history.”

Erdan, the grandson of Holocaust survivors, said the resolution made sure that Holocaust distortion and denial “will be tolerated no more.”

The Israeli diplomat also slammed social-media companies such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for their role in spreading “pandemic of distortions and lies” about the Holocaust.

“Social-media giants can no longer remain complacent to the hate spread on their platforms,” he said, urging them to take action now.

The passage of the resolution was only the second time the General Assembly had adopted an Israeli-backed resolution. The first was in 2005 when a resolution establishing International Holocaust Remembrance Day was approved.

Jewish groups welcomed the passage of the resolution, saying it offers a clear definition of Holocaust denial at a critical time for the Jewish community.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan addresses the General Assembly plenary meeting on the question of Palestine and the situation in the Middle East. | Photo / U.N. / Manuel Elías

Michigan city passes resolution censuring weekly protests at synagogue The city council in Ann Arbor, Mich., unanimously passed a resolution condemning antisemitism and the antiIsrael demonstrations that have been taking place outside a local synagogue every week for 18 years. Members of Beth Israel Congregation addressed council before the recent vote and described the protests outside their synagogue as threatening, reported the local news website MLive.com.

Rabbi Nadav Caine criticized the “hateful propaganda” being promoted by the anti-Israel demonstrators. The congregation’s president, Deborah Ball, said: “History makes plain that we must be continuously vigilant in the fight against oppression of any groups.” An anti-Israel protest group has demonstrated on Saturday mornings outside of Beth Israel Congregation since 2003. Protesters have held signs that say “Resist Jewish Power,” “Jewish Power Corrupts,” “No More Holocaust Movies,” “Boycott Israel,” “Stop U.S. Aid to Israel” and “End the Palestinian Holocaust.”

Unilever’s Israel boycott said to cost company $26 billion Unilever’s stock has plunged 20.7% in the six months since it informed Avi Singer, the owner of Ben & Jerry’s Israel, that his contract was over unless he stopped selling the company’s ice cream in Judea and Samaria. That amounts to a $26 billion loss, according to Channel 12 News, which first reported on the story. The loss stems from the withdrawal of investments, holdings and pension funds by dozens of U.S. states who have anti-boycott laws in place, such as New York, Illinois and Texas. “This is a tremendous boost to the dogged struggle I am waging these days against Unilever’s unfounded demand not to see ice cream in all parts of Israel,” said Singer, according to the report.

– Compiled from JNS.org

SENIOR LIVING

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

17

Senior Living An Akron Jewish News Advertising Special Section

Watch for signs to know when time’s right to look for assisted living ED CARROLL Special to the AJN

A

s a loved one ages, it’s natural for them to want to remain in their home and independent as long as they possibly can. However, it’s not always easy to know when an elderly loved one can no longer take care of themselves and needs to consider moving in to an assisted living facility.

Donna Anderson, marketing director at Laurel Lake Retirement Community in Hudson; Tina Witt, director of home and community-based services at Menorah Park in Beachwood, which provides home health services to the Akron area; Matthew McKown, executive director at Vitalia Active Adult Community at Montrose in Copley; and Larry Apple, project development at Omni Smart Living, which manages Vitalia Montrose, shared the signs they think indicate it may be time to transition a loved one to an assisted living facility.

Anderson

Apple

There are no hard and fast rules for when it’s time to move a loved one, but there are indicators to look out for, such as whether they struggle with the requirements of daily life.

“Perhaps they’re having some difficulty or challenges bathing or dressing or challenges managing their medication schedule,” Anderson said. “They may need more help with things they previously were able to manage on their own, like getting to doctor’s appointments or stocking their house with groceries. If that’s happening,

McKown

Witt

moving to the supportive setting of daily assisted living community can make a big difference in their life.”

While it’s always up to individual families and their needs, both McKown and Apple said it was better to err on the side of caution and be early rather than late.

“The mistake a lot of times families make is waiting too long,” McKown said. “They wait until an emergency happens. Then it’s ‘we need to find a place tomorrow, mom or dad is being discharged from a skilled rehab, we need to find some place to go.’ So,

I think earlier is always better for the search, to give you your options and really be able to shop around and get to know perspective communities. But keep an eye on what it takes mom and dad to get through the day.

If there’s a need for more and more help, better to jump on it right away.”

“There is a dual responsibility on the family to find out what’s available in the community and the facilities to make their operations and lifestyle known to the people of the area,” Apple said.

Witt said to look for things like if they’re managing their medication on their own, but added an-other factor loved ones should consider: the availability of caregivers, either family or professionally hired, to come into the home and help the senior.

“That’s something we see often is there may not be family available to help, but they wish to hire somebody to come in and provide care, and if not, then certainly the first topic is assisted living, where they can get all of that assistance,” Witt said.

18

SENIOR LIVING

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

Senior living community offers bevy of advantages ALEX KRUTCHIK Special to the AJN

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ome seniors may be apprehensive about moving into a senior living community.

Even if that community is considered independent living, where residents don’t have to follow a tight structure, it can be challenging to move from a home you’ve known for years to a new community.

Kelly Jo Hinrichs, vice president of marketing for Resort Lifestyle Communities in Hudson; Barbara Mervine, executive director of Council Gardens in Cleveland Heights; and Heather Sheller, community relations director at Gates Mills Club in Mayfield Heights, said there are many advantages to moving into an independent living community.

Sheller said those that usually look to move to an independent living community are those that are isolated at home and don’t get much socialization.

“Maybe their only activities would be watching television, having Meals on Wheels delivered and family checking in on them,” Sheller said. “That’s usually when folks are ready for assisted living. The difference between assisted living and independent living is that folks that are going into assisted living need more hands-on care. … the independent folks aren’t quite there yet. They can do those things for themselves. But they just need some help with cooking, cleaning, laundry, and being around other people.”

Hinrichs said many other reasons exist why someone might want to move to a community like this, including a life-changing event.

“It could be losing a driver’s license, the loss of a loved one or a spouse, or looking for companionship and camaraderie,” she said.

“Perhaps they’re living alone, and they’re becoming lonely. Or they might just be tired of the upkeep of a home. Each family would have a different reason for looking to make that transition. The kind of support they might need from a retirement community depends on the

reason.”

There are differences between independent senior living versus other types of communities such as assisted living or memory care, according to Mervine. “(Independent living) is similar to your own home,” Mervine said. “You go and come when you want. Assisted living is a more regimented kind of life. You’re not bound by regulations at independent living, aside from the normal regulations and laws of society. You do what you want, when you want, within the bounds of societal norms.”

Mervine did add, however, that there are certain conditions someone must meet in order to live at an independent community.

“To live independently, you have to be able to dress yourself and wash yourself,” Mervine said. “It’s totally different from assisted living.

It’s called ‘activities of daily living.’ As long as you can do those, take care of yourself and walk, then you would not want assisted living.”

Sheller said seniors can sometimes feel like they are a burden to their family when the family has to come over and make meals or set up a medication reminder. When they move into independent living or even assisted living, they feel valuable, she said. Sheller added there are opportunities to volunteer and even help their neighbors in these communities.

Another big advantage is nutrition, Sheller said. While the older generation may have made big meals for their families when they had families at home, she said they tend not to cook great meals for themselves when they’re alone.

“They may have Lean Cuisine that they heat up in the microwave, but it’s not really nutritional,” she said. “When they move into independent living, and their meals are provided for them, they come down to the main dining room. They’re interacting with other seniors and they’re having good nutrition. That can improve their mental health, their overall physical health and just give them that sense of socialization again.”

“It could be losing a driver’s license, the loss of a loved one or a spouse, or looking for companionship and camaraderie.

Perhaps they’re living alone, and they’re becoming lonely.

Or they might just be tired of the upkeep of a home. Each family would have a different reason for looking to make that transition. The kind of support they might need from a retirement community depends on the reason.”

Kelly Jo Hinrichs

SENIOR LIVING

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

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SENIOR LIVING

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

Akron resident brings new perspective to health care during pandemic ALEX KRUTCHIK Special to the AJN

I

n the midst of the most unprecedented crisis the world had faced in decades, Menorah Park in Beachwood wanted to bring someone on staff at the executive level who could help guide the clinical care and medical priorities of the organization.

That is where Dr. Jessica Coleman of Akron came in. In October 2020, while COVID-19 was still ravaging Northeast Ohio, Coleman was hired to become the vice president of medical affairs at Menorah Park.

She grew up in Wadsworth and moved to Akron for her medical training. She lives in West Akron with her husband and their two daughters.

“I am proud to work with Menorah Park, whose home care has a large presence in Akron and the surrounding area,” Coleman told the Akron Jewish News. “As we continue to navigate through the COVID pandemic and the numerous changes to the health care industry, it will be exciting to see how the organization is able to make a greater impact in the Akron area.”

She engages with home care for medical and COVID-19 best practices for safety and well-being.

Coleman said one of the interesting phenomena that she has seen over the past few years, especially in skilled rehab care, is that short stay residents that come from hospitals are more medically complex than they ever have been before.

“For that reason, while our main benefit to the community is to be a home for those who can’t care for themselves, a more important role of what we do is taking folks from the hospital and

helping to get them better faster so they can go back to their prior level of functioning,” Coleman said.

Secondarily, she said Menorah Park wanted medical expertise and input on the future of the kind of care that they provide, as well as setting up policies and practices to keep residents safe and able to do the things they need to do in the midst of a pandemic.

Coleman was previously with Summa Health in Akron, where she served as medical director for the new health collaborative’s post-acute network. She is board certified in both family medicine and geriatrics, in addition to being a certified medical director.

She said while there are people who do her job at a hospital level and outpatient community-based level, the interesting part about her role at Menorah Park is interacting with residents and their families for a good portion of the day, as opposed to other physicians or administrators.

Coleman also speaks with rabbis and employees in Menorah Park’s life enrichment program about what it is that the residents want to do to feel fulfilled. She said they want to understand how to do those things in a way that is safe during a pandemic.

“If we can come out of this pandemic where people feel like they got to do the things that they wanted to do, and they also avoided COVID-19 or any bad effects from COVID-19, I feel like we did a good job,” Coleman said.

The long-term goals Coleman has set for herself and Menorah Park are determining how to evolve in the changing medical climate that keeps the elder at the center and evolve as an organization in a way that “keeps sacred the wisdom in life experiences of the older person, but still are able to incorporate new medical technologies and new medical information.”

Regina Prosser, left, vice president of clinical services, and Dr. Jessica Coleman, vice president of medical affairs, collaborate on health and wellness initiatives throughout the Menorah Park organization. | Submitted photo As she settles into her role, Coleman said she is most looking forward to involving Menorah Park in the greater medical and social community by bringing educational opportunities to the organization.

“I really want to make sure that when people hear ‘Menorah Park,’ they think of the newest and best clinical education and offerings for the older person,” she said.

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TORAH | SYNAGOGUE

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

The endless circle RABBI MOSHE SASONKIN

T

he renowned French naturalist, Jean-Henri Fabre, conducted an intriguing experiment with processionary caterpillars. What makes this caterpillar unique is its instinct to follow, step after step, the caterpillar directly in front of it. They derive their name from this behavior.

Here is what Fabre did: he arranged the caterpillars on the rim of a flowerpot.

Each caterpillar’s head touched the caterpillar in front of it. Then the caterpillars’ food was placed in the center of the flowerpot. What happened was startling – each caterpillar followed the one ahead of it, thinking that it was heading for the food. Round and round they went, for days. Unfortunately, this experiment did not have a happy ending for the

caterpillars. After a week of this activity, they started to die of exhaustion and starvation.

All this time, the food was less than six inches away, in full sight. All each one had to do was stop following the senseless circle of the caterpillar in front and break away on its own to get its food.

You see, the caterpillars confused movement with meaning.

They were too busy following the crowd to stop and get the nutrients and energy they needed most.

Many times, we too get caught up driving in circles on the highway of life. We move frantically, doing, moving. Day after day in a blur of weeks,

months, years. We go through the motions of waking, working, eating and sleeping, more conscious of the tyranny of the clock and the pressure of our peers and we settle into our own processionary routine.

This week, the Torah teaches us one of the most fundamental messages for living a meaningful life.

G-d tells Moses to tell the Jewish people, “Make for me a sanctuary, and I will dwell in them.” The sentence seems to be grammatically incorrect – it should say, “Make for me a sanctuary … and I will dwell in IT.” Why the change from singular to plural?

The Talmud explains that G-d wants to dwell not just in the Tabernacle in the desert, but more importantly, in the heart and soul, the personal Tabernacle, inside each one of us.

In order to be healthy, well-balanced individuals, we can’t suffice with feeding our bodies. We need to pause and get the nourishment of Shabbat, G-d, His Torah, and his mitzvahs, and feed these necessary and vital nutrients to our souls to create a sanctuary for

The Akron area is home to several local synagogues and congregations to meet the worship needs of all members of the community. For service times and additional information, including links and passwords to attend online services and requirements for attending services in person, visit the synagogue website or contact the synagogue office directly.

CONSERVATIVE

Beth El Congregation 750 White Pond Drive, Akron Rabbi Jeremy Lipton 330-864-2105 bethelakron.com

REFORM

Temple Beth Shalom 50 Division St., Hudson Rabbi Michael Ross 330-656-1800 tbhudson.org

Temple Israel 91 Springside Drive, Bath Township Rabbi Josh Brown Cantor Kathy Fromson 330-665-2000 templeisraelakron.org

ORTHODOX

Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue 646 N. Revere Road, Bath Township Rabbi Moshe Sasonkin 330-867-7292 akronshul.com

Twinsburg Chabad 2275 Gary Drive Twinsburg Rabbi Mendy Greenberg 440-465-2063 jewishtwinsburg.com

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Feb. 5 Terumah Exodus 25:1-27:19 1 Kings 5:26-6:13

Feb. 19 Ki Tisa Exodus 30:11-34:35 1 Kings 18:1-39

Feb. 12 Tetzevah Exodus 27:20-30:10 Ezekiel 43:10-27

Feb. 26 Vayak’hel Exodus 35:1-38:20 2 Kings 11:17-12:17

G-d in our hearts.

That will give us the peace of mind, strength and confidence to fulfill our own unique mission on earth – to build a Sanctuary for G-d to dwell – in ourselves and in our communities.

Rabbi Moshe Sasonkin is spiritual leader of Anshe Sfard-Revere Road Synagogue in Bath Township and co-director with his wife, Mussie, of Chabad of Akron/Canton.

DISCLAIMER: The Akron Jewish News does not make endorsements of political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Akron Jewish News do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, the Jewish Community Board of Akron, its boards, officers or staffs.

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SPORTS

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

If you have a suggestion for a column idea for Andy Baskin, send him an email at columnists@cjn.org. He can be heard on “Baskin & Phelps” weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 92.3 The Fan.

@andy_baskin

Browns’ playoff hunt grounded as questions swirl around QB

Like the end of a road trip with three connecting flights and a six-hour layover in a small city with nothing but a vending machine to get something to eat, the Cleveland Browns’ season has reached its final destination.

We thought this was going to be a great journey to a place where the Browns have never been before. Instead, it just turned out to be another trip to watching other teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals make the playoffs.

Cincinnati is a reflection of its quarterback Joe Burrow. The Bengals worked through the hard times of his injury of one season ago. Just four wins last year and a last-place finish.

It seems Burrow’s gritty win in week 17 against Kansas City proved they were worthy of moving on to the next round. The second-year quarterback leads by example and carries the swagger of a man who can lead his team to victory in clutch moments, with help from wideouts like Ja’marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Burrow can do it when his team needs him the most. And now those same 2 teams represented the AFC in the Championship Game on Jan. 30 with the winner headed to Super Bowl LVI Feb. 13.

It’s difficult to believe the Steelers made the playoffs. It seems almost scripted the black and gold won their last two games, had Indianapolis lose to Jacksonville and was gifted the Raiders’ last-

second field goal in overtime to beat Los Angeles to send them to the playoffs. It was one last retirement run for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. It was painful to see the Steelers reach the playoffs, even with their first-round exit following their ugly 42-21defeat by the Chiefs. On paper compared to the Browns’ roster, it is a head-scratcher.

The pain really started somewhere around weeks two and three.

It was when quarterback Baker Mayfield’s torn labrum in his nonthrowing shoulder went from partially ripped to completely ripped.

In hindsight and after looking at before and after effectiveness to the Browns’ offense, he should have had surgery then.

Inventions are great, but the harness Mayfield was wearing to play is something I wish never existed. The pressure to perform at a high level with a contract extension in the balance turned out to be a disaster. I will spend the offseason wondering why he was on the field after week three.

I will never blame a player for trying to play. Someone in the room didn’t stand up on the table and say, “What are we doing?

Why are we sending him back out on the field?” Head coach Kevin

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Stefanski, General Manager Andrew Berry, owners Jimmy and Dee Haslem, and Mayfield’s agent, Jack Mills, all need to look in the mirror and wonder how we got to this point.

Mayfield has his faults, like worrying way too much about the media. I just know what I witnessed early in the season, and that Mayfield didn’t play this year. After a season of taking care of the football and limiting turnovers, Mayfield now stands behind a banner that FOX Sports used in the last game – most interceptions in the last four years by any NFL quarterback.

Stefanski defines getting too much credit when you are winning and too much blame when the team loses. I believe his play calling would have had him looking for a new job in most NFL cities if he were just the offensive coordinator. There were games when the Browns looked like they locked in fourth-quarter plays on Tuesday of game week. Resting running back Nick Chubb late in the game and looking at the three tight end sets with no deep threats became very predictable.

The reality is Stefanski didn’t drop any passes or play on the offensive line. He only called the plays. The players need to execute them. The team took a ton of hits on the offensive line with injury and COVID-19. It’s something that is overlooked because it’s easier to spin the lack of success on quarterback play than look at the less glamorous shortcomings of watching a punter fumble away the Kansas City game, or watching missed extra points and field goals change the way a game turns out.

Drama in a losing season keeps the screen rolling on the web, the ink flowing in the papers and the mouths chirping on radio and TV for teams that miss the playoffs. I’ve had enough Browns’ drama in my lifetime. I’m done telling you this team is going to the playoffs next season. It causes undo stress and we really don’t need it.

But, that six-hour layover made me wonder how former Ohio State University wideouts Garrett Wilson or Chris Olave would look in a Browns’ uniform next season. I need a shower after this exhausting trip.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAN GILBERT It was good to see Cavs’ majority owner Dan Gilbert in some of the background shots on MLK Day. Jan. 17 was also his 60th birthday. After suffering a stroke in May 2019, we have not seen or heard much from Gilbert, so I’m glad he was able to be at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse to see the signature win.

Also seen on TV was Amar’e Stoudemire, who was also in town with the Nets as an assistant coach. The six-time NBA All-Star is super interesting. He was a standout player in Israeli’s Premier League. He also converted to Judaism in 2020. His faith is on full display on his Instagram account @amareisreal. It is worth the follow.

CHONES PROVIDES RADIO GOLD I juggled the Jan. 17 Cleveland Cavaliers-Brooklyn Nets game between radio and television. Brad Daugherty is a nice fit with Austin Carr and John Michael on TV. It would be great if Bally Sports had him do more games.

If you are really looking to be educated about the game, Jim Chones knocks it out of the park. His partner, Tim Alcorn, brings it with great energy. They are a good team. Chones always makes me smarter when I listen to him.

DISCLAIMER: The Akron Jewish News does not make endorsements of

political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Akron Jewish News do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, the Jewish Community Board of Akron, its boards, officers or staffs.

February 2022 | Akron Jewish News

23

TRIBUTES AND MEMORIAL GIFTS

The Jewish Community Board of Akron and the Shaw JCC acknowledge the following recent Tributes and Memorials made to the designated fund below.

Barbara Pollock Scholarship Award Fund In Memory of

Lici Calderon from Leona Pollock Stan Regal from Leona Pollock

Derrow-Kutnick Mandel ECE Staff Credentials & Development Fund In Memory of

Henry Zuchegno from Steve Kutnick and Jackie Derrow Stan Regal from Steve Kutnick and Jackie Derrow Jerry Malin from Steve Kutnick and Jackie Derrow Estelle Kaufman from Marvin and Judi Shapiro Stan Regal from Marvin and Judi Shapiro Henry Zuchegno from Marvin and Judi Shapiro

JCC Endowment Fund In Honor of

Michael Segal’s retirement from David and Janet Minc

In Memory of Sid Dambrot from Marta Roth Bernard Schwartz from Max and Beverly Rothal Michael Wieder from David and Janet Minc Helen Auerbach from David and Janet Minc Stanford Regal from David and Janet Minc Estelle Kaufman from David and Janet Minc Stanford Regal from Peter and Barbara Oldham Stan Regal from Max and Beverly Rothal

JCC Senior Adults Fund In Memory of

Henry Zuchegno from Bart and Dianne Oldenburg Stan Regal from Bart and Dianne Oldenburg

Kerry Migdal Memorial Fund Speedy Recovery

Marvin Shapiro from Stan and Rhoda Migdal

In Memory of David Friedman from Marta Roth Dr. Leon Wyant from Steve and Leslie Kodish Mark Embly from Steve and Leslie Kodish David Friedman from Steve and Leslie Kodish Sid Dambrot from Steve and Leslie Kodish Jack Kent from Steve and Leslie Kodish Marcia Giterman from Steve and Leslie Kodish Don Davidson from Steve and Leslie Kodish Jerry Malin from Stan and Rhoda Migdal Donald and Estelle Kaufman from Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Bellowe Stan Marks from Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Bellowe Stan Regal from Stan and Rhoda Migdal Estelle Kaufman from Stan and Rhoda Migdal Henry Zuchegno from Stan and Rhoda Migdal

Lila Marks Music Performance & Education Fund In Memory of

Henry Zuchegno from Marvin Rosenthal

Henry Zuchegno from David and Janet Silverman Lici Calderon from Larry and Shelley Kaye Henry Zuchegno from Larry and Shelley Kaye Remembering beloved Mom, Lila Marks from Larry and Shelley Kaye

Murray Glauberman Young Leadership Fund In Memory of

Stan Regal from Marta Roth Stan Regal from Jerry and Sandy Schneier Stanford Regal from Catherine Kepley Stan Regal from Bill and Diane Kaplan Stan Regal from Michael and Linda Osherow Stan Regal from The Michael Jacobs Family Dan Slavin from The Michael Jacobs Family Stanford Regal from Barry and Linda Leaventon Stan Regal from Steve and Bonnie Wachter Stan Regal from Jeffery King and Sandra Topper Stanford Regal from Larry and Esther Hexter

Past Presidents’ Fund In Memory of

Helen Segal from Steve and Bonnie Wachter

Randy Recht Sports Camp Fund In Memory of

Stanford Regal from Marjorie Recht Stanford Regal from Lauren Recht Weinstein

Speedy Recovery Delores Ekus from Marjorie Recht

In Honor of Special Birthday Dr. Jason Lichten from Majorie Recht

Ronald Penner JCC Memorial Fund for Israel-centric BBYO Programming In Memory of

Jerry Malin from Jack and Harriet Neiman Stan Regal from Arlene Penner and Family Henry Zuchegno from Arlene Penner and Family Estelle Kaufman from Arlene Penner and Family

Soup for the Soul Fund In Memory of

Ann Duke from Martin and Sherry Hellman Stan Regal from Fred Schaffer

JCC Special Needs Fund In Memory of

Peggy Greenbaum Mazur from Marvin Rosenthal

The Rose & Lawrence Schwartz Holocaust Education Fund In Memory of

Rose & Lawrence Schwartz, from Eddie & Marla Schwartz Helen Ehrlich, from Eddie & Marla Schwartz Susanna Friedmann, from Eddie & Marla Schwartz Helen Segal, from Irene Adler Henry Zuchegno, from Irene Adler Dr. Michael Wieder, from Irene & Alyse Adler Stan Regal, from Irene & Alyse Adler

In Honor of The Bat Mitzvah of Marty & Rachael Lerman’s daughter, Shoshana, from Eddie & Marla Schwartz Rabbi Matt Cohen’s new position as Rabbi of Temple Emanu El, from Irene Adler

Jennifer Moss Scholarship Fund In Memory of

Gerry Reaven, from Herb & Ellen Moss Henry Zuchegno, from Herb & Ellen Moss Stan Regal, from Herb & Ellen Moss Michael Wieder, from Herb & Ellen Moss Jery Malin, from Herb & Ellen Moss Helen Segal, from Herb & Ellen Moss Gabriel Miller, from Herb & Ellen Moss Herman Freeman, from Herb & Ellen Moss Bernard Schwartz, from Herb & Ellen Moss William Deutchman, from Herb & Ellen Moss

Get Well Wishes to Steve Botnick, from Herb & Ellen Moss Rabbi Stephen Grundfast, from Herb & Ellen Moss Jerry Schneier, from Herb & Ellen Moss

Jewish National Fund In Memory of

Jerry Malin, from Beverly & Max Rothal Jerry Malin, from Daughters of Israel Stan Regal, from Daughters of Israel

Gabriel Miller Beloved husband of Sherrie Miller Beloved brother of Helen Krokocki, Michael Muller, Ralph Muller & Sylvain Miller Beloved father of Lisa Miller-Yoskowitz & David Miller Beloved grandfather Sara & Erica Yoskowitz, Russell, Andrew & Samuel Miller

Phyllis Sugerman

Stan Regal from Dr. and Mrs. Fred Vigder

Beloved wife of Charles R. (Bob), z”l Beloved mother of Irv (Beth), Geoff, and Lynne.

Beloved grandmother of Marc (Samantha), Brian, Max, and Justin Beloved great grandmother of Cayla and Eli

JCC Families Supporting Families Fund

Charles (Chuck) Landau

Stan Regal from Todd and Shelley Rodman Henry Zuchegno from The Faught Family

Predeceased by his wife Arlene and daughter Paulette Beloved father of Michael (Tammy) Landau,

Stanley M. Bober Memorial Fund In Memory of

In Memory of

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Elizabeth Hyder, James (Brenda) Landau, David (Toni) Landau Beloved grandfather of Aubree and Chase, Jessica (Alex) and Codi (Tara), Brian and Kristine Beloved great-grandfather of Julian, Violet, Ashton, & Jaxon Beloved brother of Estabelle

Kenneth Wolf Predeceased by his son, Adam Wolf and daughterin-law, Tiffany Wolf Beloved husband of Lisa (Merrill) Wolf Beloved father of Jonathan Wolf Beloved grandfather of Brandon, Ryan, Alayah and Gauge Beloved brother of Elliot and Sherry Leaving behind Karen Blank (Allan Monosoff), mother of his children

Estelle Kaufman Beloved wife of Don OBM Beloved mother of Craig (Amy) Kaufman, Susan (Greg) McMains, Carrie (Brad) Martin Beloved Bamma to Jason (Jess) McMains, Rachel Kaufman, Alex Lefkowitz, Max Lefkowitz, Brian (Nicole) McMains, Abby (Molly) Kaufman, Zach (Allie) McMains; to step-grandson, Ben Martin; to five great-grandchildren, Addie and Benjamin McMains, Mitchell McMains and Lena McMains, Ella Smemo; and her cherished nieces and nephews.

Stanford Regal Beloved husband of Marilyn Beloved father of Sheri Regal (Stuart) Glauberman, Ken (Heidi) Regal, Brett (Dr. Susie) Regal Beloved brother of Edwin(Faye) Regal & Brother-in-law Bill (Sharon) Sobel Beloved grandfather of Seth (Nora) Glauberman, Lauren Osina, Ben (Laurie) Regal, Jennie (Fred) Kilmer, Sara (Dr. Michael) Humphrey, David Regal, Michael Glauberman & Adam (Kelly) Glauberman.

Beloved Great Grandfather of Ayva, Hannah, Ella, Uhland, Elliott, Jacob & Victoria Nieces & Nephews Norman (Laurie) Regal, Susan (Eric) Kent, Geri Ann (Mark) Druyos.

Marc Kloner Beloved brother of David (Deborah) Kloner Beloved husband of Jane Beloved father of Megan (Mark) Hymanson Beloved grandfather of Maisy

Jerry Malin Beloved husband of Elaine Beloved father of Tamar (David) Dessner and Rina Malin Beloved brother of Dafna (Shalom) Menashes of Tel Aviv Beloved grandfather of Peri & Elli

A K R O N

24

Akron Jewish News | February 2022

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