NOVEMBER 13, 2015
DIFFERENCE MAKERS
“Double Chai” in 2015 November 18, 2015
cjn.org/differencemakers
Lifetime Achievement Award
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
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While the selection process was challenging, it was the right kind of challenge. It attested to the depth of Northeast Ohio’s Jewish community, and to the investment these Difference Makers make in that community. This event is a celebration of that community, a community we all love and contribute to. These Difference Makers take the extra steps that make our community one of the most powerful and meaningful in the United States. Join me Nov. 18 as we salute these extraordinary individuals. They enrich the fabric of the community and enhance all our lives. It’s a privilege to honor them.
While the selection process was challenging, it was the right kind of challenge. It attested to the depth of Northeast Ohio’s Jewish community, and to the investment these Difference Makers make in that community.
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Difference Makers embody best of Northeast Ohio’s Jewish community KEVIN S. ADELSTEIN
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Kevin@cjn.org
he Difference Makers who will gather with us Nov. 18 at Executive Caterers at Landerhaven in Mayfield Heights represent the first round of the best of the Jewish community of Northeast Ohio. It’s an honor and a pleasure for the Cleveland Jewish News to recognize these special people.
A singular honor goes to Harlan Diamond, the CEO of Executive Caterers. He will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. These exceptional people come from all walks of life. They are doctors. They are lawyers. They are students. They are architects. They are activists. They are industrialists. They are teachers, social workers, specialists in special needs. They are developers. They are money managers. They are entrepreneurs. Many combine categories. These are people of multiple dimensions. They are of all ages, from the teen years to the late 80s. No matter their stage in life, they express tikkun olam. Repairing the world is their purpose. Calling defines them more than profession, and their key calling is ser-
vice – to the Jewish community and the communities that our unique and robust community interacts with. When the Cleveland Jewish News conceived Difference Makers, the idea was to recognize community movers and shakers who bend the human arc toward grace. All these people do that. What’s so promising is they’re just the first wave. These are people nominated by the community for their character and their accomplishments. When we launched this effort, the expectation was modest, for a “chai.” “Chai” means both life and the numeral 18 in Hebrew. Difference Makers became “double chai” when the selection committee found itself poring over more than 100 nominations. Committee members eventually settled on these 36, whom you will meet on the following pages.
Kevin S. Adelstein
Kevin S. Adelstein is publisher and CEO of the Cleveland Jewish News.
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LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Harlan Diamond
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arlan Diamond doesn’t do his charitable work through boards. He laughingly said that he has been kicked off of every board he has ever been on. “I’m not good on boards,” Diamond said with a chuckle. “I’m much better at doing the work.” His charitable work stems from his regular work. Both have lasted nearly a lifetime. Diamond, CEO of Executive Caterers at Landerhaven in Mayfield Heights, has been in the food service industry since he was 15. His charitable roots extend further, back to his grandmother’s house, where frequent backyard card parties supported one organization or another. Their dining room table was always covered with charitable items. When the homeless and hungry would walk up to their door during The Great Depression, she’d greet them with food and a quarter. “It sure made an impact on me,” Diamond said. ”It was just a natural thing. You grow up that way, you don’t know any different.” At Landerhaven, Diamond has been able to make an impact in a variety of ways. There are the thousands of people who got their first job at Executive Caterers at Landerhaven. That was where they learned the value of hard work and the social skills required in the kitchen and in the dining room. There is also Philanthropia, organized in the wake of Sept. 11, after Diamond realized that everyone was shipping their money to New York, leaving Cleveland charities without the
At a Glance
Age: 81 Children: Michelle Baker As a professional: Executive Caterers at Landerhaven Synagogue: Park Synagogue Noteworthy: Harlan has long brought his dog, Connor, into work with him, where he is arguably the most popular employee. support they were accustomed to. “As the year wore on from September, I was inundated with requests,” Diamond said. Diamond decided to turn his annual Corporate Club luncheon into an event supporting these charities. The fee that supported Landerhaven in hosting Corporate Club luncheons went to charity instead. Diamond absorbed the cost.
The event has grown from 200 guests and $9,000 raised its first year to bringing in six figures annually. In particular, Philanthropia allows small organizations, many lacking the resources to throw their own fundraising galas, to have fundraisers. “This is their only fundraiser,” Diamond said. Or charitable organizations that lack the money to throw their staff a holiday party could have “their holiday party” at the Corporate Club luncheon. They could buy a table – and all of that money would go back to the organization. Diamond doesn’t look at his charitable giving as particularly noteworthy. The community has long supported Executive Caterers at Landerhaven by choosing to have events there. In turn, Executive Caterers supports the community. “When the community is giving you so much, you have to give back,” Diamond said. “Giving back is the fun of it.” Diamond talked about the joy of making a donation or doing something for somebody or supporting something or someone. Each time he mentioned a way of helping out, he ended with the same happy refrain. “That’s nice.” At Executive Caterers at Landerhaven, and indeed Diamond stressed that it is the whole team, not just him, that supports the community, nice things happen all the time. “They make magic and I’ve been proud to be a part of it,” Diamond said. – Jonah L. Rosenblum
Introduced by: Former U.S. Sen. George Voinovich
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ormer U.S. Sen. George V. Voinovich is a very well-known man and a stalwart friend of Israel. The Jewish Federation of Cleveland presented him its highest honor in 2010. The last Republican mayor of Cleveland, the Collinwood native has a unique and long career as a public servant. Not Voinovich only did he serve as U.S. senator from 1999 to 2011, he ran what at the time was Ohio’s largest city from 1980 to 1989. And from 1991 through 1998, he was governor of Ohio. Voinovich is one of only two to score such a trifecta (the other was another Slovenian, Frank Lausche). He also is notable for scoring the highest number of votes ever recorded (3.4 million, or 64 percent) in his re-election to the Senate in 2004, the year in which he won all 88 Ohio counties. The Federation awarded Voinovich the 2009 Charles Eisenman Award for Exceptional Leadership in recognition of his helping establish a ClevelandTel Aviv partnership, aiding the cause of Soviet Jewry, promoting Ohio-Israel and combating anti-Semitism.
Guest speaker: Joe Kanfer
J
oe Kanfer is known around the world, and especially in his backyard, where he has built GOJO industries into a household name. With headquarters in Akron, GOJO is a world leader in the field of hygiene and skin care products for institutional markets. It invented Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer. Kanfer, a Richfield resident, also is synonymous with the Jewish community in Northeast Ohio and Israel.
He is chairman of Startvest Partners, which develops biotech start-ups in Israel, and of HeadSense, which focuses on measuring intercranial pressure and concussion. Kanfer Kanfer is a past chair of United Jewish Communities, the former name
of the Jewish Federations of North America, the agency that coordinates more than 150 Jewish communities of North America. He has served on the boards of the Jewish Agency for Israel, the Akron Jewish Community Board and The Lippman School. He also is a past chair of the Jewish Education Service of North America, He is a member of the President’s Advancement Council of the Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron and
the executive committee of the Greater Akron Chamber board of directors. He is a past chair of Akron Tomorrow and past vice chair of the University of Akron board of trustees. Kanfer has a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from the Wharton School of Finance at the University of Pennsylvania and a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School. – Bob Jacob
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Justin Bachman
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Trusted Advisors. Respected Advocates.SM McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA proudly congratulates the inaugural class of Difference Makers and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Harlan Diamond. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to the community.
McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA is a full service law firm that strives to make exceptional legal service accessible. Alternative Dispute Resolution ▪ Banking & Finance ▪ Business & Corporate ▪ Creditor & Debtor Rights ▪ Criminal, Cyber & White Collar ▪ Defamation ▪ Education ▪ Employment ▪ Family Law ▪ Insurance Coverage ▪ Intellectual Property ▪ Litigation ▪ Mergers & Acquisitions ▪ Personal Injury & Wrongful Death ▪ Public Law ▪ Real Estate & Construction ▪ Sports & Media ▪ Taxation ▪ Trusts & Estates
ur goal is to let kids know they’re not alone, and give them the confidence to be different,” said Justin Bachman, a freshman at Syracuse University in New York. Bachman, the founder of Different Like You, formerly Honor Good Deeds, has worked with students to empower them to be different. Bachman has spent his life “different” from others battling Tourette’s syndrome and ADHD, but has embraced his battle and challenges students to do the same. Honor Good Deeds was started by Justin and his family in 2010-11 and has increased its reach over time. Bachman has touched 70,000 students in 150 schools in 14 states during his first few years of public speaking. A big portion of Different Like You includes a tolerance fair that is an annual event in providing people with the tools to gain self-confidence and “live loud,” as Bachman’s key slogan. Bachman has spent the past year revamping and rebranding what was formerly Honor Good Deeds. He has continued to speak at and attend events and schools while attempting to better the company in the long run. The new design is set to officially launch this month. “We’re in the process of adding an online resource center in order to be more effective in getting our message across to students,” Bachman said. Since Bachman has been at Syracuse
“He openly discusses the choices he makes every single day when he wakes up and makes the best of everything he has!” From the nomination form University, he has worked with Different Like You to focus on the continuation of empowering students while he furthers his education. – Max Rothstein
At a Glance
Age: 18 College: Freshman, Syracuse University In the community: Different Like You (formerly Honor Good Deeds), Syracuse University Hillel Noteworthy: As a junior in high school, Bachman won the top prize of a four-year scholarship totaling $40,000 in the Stop the Hate: Youth Speak Out! contest, sponsored by the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage.
Congratulations to our friend Harlan on his well-deserved honor!
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Samantha Baskind
At a Glance
Age: 45 College: Cleveland State University Spouse: Larry Baum Children: Asher, 8; Naomi, 6 Synagogue: Park Synagogue In the community: Cleveland Israel Arts Connection, Yom Hashoah, Creative Arts for Yom Hashoah juror Noteworthy: Baskind is the author of the Encyclopedia of Jewish American Artists.
“Samantha’s interest in Jewish art is born of a desire to educate as wide an audience as possible, Jewish and non-Jewish, about Judaism and Jewish cultural contributions.” From the nomination form
I
felt compelled as an educator to have someone teach students about the Holocaust,” said Samantha Baskind, a Cleveland State University professor of art history. This was the idea that led Baskind to become the only professor at CSU to solely teach about the Holocaust. For Baskind to have the proper knowledge necessary to teach the course, she spent four weeks at seminars that covered how to teach the Holocaust.
Her semester-long seminar regarding art and the Holocaust allows students an opportunity to explore Jewish culture, including a tour of the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage in Beachwood as well as experiencing Yom Hashoah. The interesting aspect to the course is that Baskind has not had a Jew take the class. She has shared the cultural-rich Jewish community with students from an abundance of different backgrounds. While going through these tours and experiences, the students have the chance to hear from a Holocaust survivor. For all of the students thus far, that survivor is the first Holocaust survivor he or she has met. Baskind also finds time to volunteer and provide a nationwide book tour on her text, “Jewish Artists and the Bible in Twentieth Century America.” She spent much of the past year traveling to explain the ideas behind her book, while continuing her teaching career full time. She also finds time to lecture about the Jewish cultural contributions and Judaism at area synagogues, Playhouse Square, Cleveland Museum of Art and the Maltz Museum. – Max Rothstein
Mazel Tov Esther Cohen Hexter
Mazel Tov Harlan
Thanks for being a special part or our lives Cindy, Joel, & Mitchell Herman
For all you give. For all you do. We thank each and every one of you. Michael “The Ganley Man” Friedman and the entire staff.
Thank you for making a difference in our community On the Bedford Automile 750 White Pond Dr. Akron, OH 44320 · www.bethelakron.com · 330.864.2105
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
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Ronald M. Berkman “CSU President Ronald Berkman is an advocate for the city and the Jewish community.” – From the nomination form
Because
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Celebrating 65 years WKSU, an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, is committed to attaining excellence through the recruitment and retention of a diverse workforce. 15-UR-00125-123
Mazel Tov to ORT’s Difference Makers!
R
onald M. Berkman hopes being a difference maker marks recognition of the changes made at Cleveland State University since he became president seven years ago. Not only was this year’s incoming freshman class of 1,875 the largest in its 50-year history, CSU “has become a school of choice, not a school of default,” he said. “Indeed, it’s absolutely doubled the number that it was six years ago. “ “The other difference I would say is the number of partnerships we’ve been able to foster, including a partnership with Playhouse Square, one with NEOMED to bring a public medical school presence to Cleveland” and one with the Cleveland Metropolitan School
At a Glance
District that already has generated recognition of advances the district has made. Under his leadership, Cleveland State University has forged partnerships with three Israeli institutions of higher learning: The University of Haifa and Tel Aviv University and, at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Beersheba, a cross-university collaboration based on the Mandel Social Leadership MBA Program there. “I like that we’re making a difference in students’ lives,” he adds, noting graduation rates and retention rates have risen dramatically at CSU. Now students want to attend CSU, he said: More than 10,000 wanted to be freshmen this year, with only 1,875 enrolled. It is getting hard to get into Cleveland State? “It’s getting harder,” says Berkman, who recently re-upped to serve as president until 2019. “Some people never learn.” – Carlo Wolff
Age: 68 As a professional: Cleveland State University Children: Cameron; Mikhaila In the community: Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, Cleveland Rock and Roll, Inc., Cleveland State University Foundation director, Destination Cleveland, Downtown Cleveland Alliance ex-officio board member, Greater Cleveland Partnership director, Horizon League, Inter-University Council of Ohio vice chair, Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Northeast Ohio Council on Higher Education director, Playhouse Square Foundation, United Way of Greater Cleveland
Larry Kadis
National Executive Committee Chair Past Local ORT President
Barnett Bookatz
National Board Member Past Local ORT President
May you go from strength to strength.
Lisa Hacker We are so proud of you for the difference you make in all the lives you touch. Congratulations on this wonderful recognition.
ORT America Northeast Ohio Region
All our love,
ORTamerica.org | facebook.com/ORTamerica | twitter.com/ORTamerica
Mom, Dad and Lori
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Jack Bialosky Jr.
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At a Glance
ikkun olam, literally translated as “repairing the world,” has had a significant impact on the architectural difference maker, Jack Bialosky Jr. As the senior and managing principal of Bialosky + Partners Architects, Bialosky has dealt with pro bono efforts to benefit agencies like the Mandel Jewish Community Center, Cleveland Food Bank and EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute. “I believe passionately that architects have a unique responsibility to serve and strengthen the communities in which
Age: 61 As a professional: Bialosky + Partners Architects Spouse: Ronni Children: Danny; Alec Synagogue: Suburban Temple-Kol Ami In the community: City of Cleveland’s Bond Accountability Commission, City of Cleveland’s design review, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority’s arts-in-transit committee, president-elect of the Cleveland chapter of the American Institute of Architects Noteworthy: Bialosky’s father, Jack Bialosky Sr., is founder of Bialosky + Partners Architects.
they live. For me, the idea of tikkun olam also extends beyond serving the Jewish community to the region and the world at large,” Bialosky said. “We can all do something to make a difference.” Bialosky goes beyond the depths of his company when it comes to benefitting the general public. With the Cleveland chapter of the American Institute of Architects, Bialosky mentors young architects, and continuing the expansion of pro bono work done for nonprofit organizations. He also deals with design of both public and private projects that work to enhance the public environment and he helps oversee the expenditure of $200 million for renovation and development of Cleveland schools. As a member of the GCRTA’s arts-intransit committee, Bialosky deals with the selection and installation of the 1 percent of art funds that go to public art for transportation. Through care for the general public, he puts a great effort into making a difference for all within our community. – Max Rothstein
“On both a personal and professional level, Jack Bialosky Jr. has devoted time and talent to strengthening Jewish Cleveland.” – From the nomination form
Harlan Diamond Always a champion -Don Shury
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Bart Bookatz
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difficulties in the community through the Hebrew Free Loan Association, where he provides financial help to those who can’t obtain conventional loans. Recently, he has focused his time and energy on raising security in the Jewish community through his involvement in the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s security committee. “I want people in this community to feel safe going to any Jewish event or organization,” he said. Bookatz has raised the security profile by increasing security guard
art Bookatz has been told he has a hard time saying “no,” and his list of organizations reinforces that claim. Bookatz, president of BerkowitzKumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel, has enjoyed involving himself throughout Cleveland’s Jewish community. “I don’t just help families prepare for the funeral,” he said. “I help families in need throughout the entire grieving process.” Bookatz never lets finances get in the way of someone receiving a proper funeral. He also helps mitigate financial
At a Glance
Age: 67 As a professional: Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel Spouse: Carole Children: O. Bryon; Dr. G. Bradley Synagogue: The Temple-Tifereth Israel, Park Synagogue, Young Israel of Greater Cleveland, Suburban Temple-Kol Ami and B’nai Jeshurun Congregation In the community: Vice president of American Jewish Committee; Jewish Federation of Cleveland where he is chair of its security committee; Hebrew Free Loan Association; Israel Bonds; ORT America; and Milestones Autism Resources. Noteworthy: He has spent 45 years as a funeral director.
“Bart Bookatz more than satisfies the criteria of a ‘Difference Maker,’ and as demonstrated by his invaluable contributions to the Jewish community, is deserving of that public recognition.” presence at Jewish events and religious organizations, as well as increasing security training. He focuses not only on local activity, but on global activity relating to Jews and Israel. Through the American Jewish Committee, he works with foreign dignitaries to promote Israel, while recognizing anti-Semitism exists around the world. Bookatz realizes the problem Jews face is not confined to Cleveland,
– From the nomination form but is a prevalent issue worldwide. He enjoys spending time advocating for Jews on a larger scale, but emphasizes the importance of locally supporting the Jewish community. – Max Rothstein
CONGRATULATIONS TO HARLAN DIAMOND on your Lifetime Achievement Award and all of the 2015 Difference Makers in Northeast Ohio’s Jewish community
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Michael Cantor
“I cannot think of anyone who embodies tikkun olam more or who could be more deserving of this honor.” – From the nomination form
T
he managing director at Allegro Realty Advisors, Michael Cantor does far more than manage a realty company – he manages to impact global anti-Semitism through the American Jewish Committee. Describing himself as the Cleveland “point person,” Cantor meets with
councils and representatives from cities across the United States, as well as for more than 30 nations to communicate priorities on a global basis. A major global issue that Cantor focuses on is unification against increased anti-Semitism across the world. Cantor has begun a mayor-oriented petition to represent the unified fight against anti-Semitism in the United States. About one-third of the U.S. population has backed this petition and he has moved the petition to Europe. Beginning with the mayor of Paris, the petition will exemplify the European fight against anti-Semitism. Secularly, Cantor focuses on the betterment of the city of Cleveland. And at the core of this focus is urban education. “The question that needs to be asked is how can we improve educational resources,” said Cantor. He has applied his talents to this effort by promoting a bill regarding taxes on inner-city schools. Once the bill became law, inner-city schools were allowed to share taxes with charter schools, saving urban schools money for needed materials. “Once we improve urban education, then the betterment of Cleveland moves outward throughout the city,” said Cantor. Cantor also has worked with the AJC to provide middle and high school volunteers to see what is needed within the schools and where improvements are most necessary. – Max Rothstein
At a Glance
Age: 46 As a professional: Allegro Realty Advisors Spouse: Amy Diamond Cantor Children: Ashley, 18; Marni, 15; Kyle, 11 Synagogue: Park Synagogue In the community: Government Affairs Council; Leadership Cleveland, president of American Jewish Committee, Cleveland region; The Music Settlement; and City Year Cleveland
Ursuline College congratulates Harlan Diamond on his Lifetime Achievement Award.
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Jennifer Chestnut
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fter spending 16 years as executive director of Hillel at Kent State University, Jennifer Chestnut has transitioned into her new role of vice president for campus partnerships at Hillel International. For Chestnut, working one-on-one with young Jewish students is a rewarding experience. “If we want our Jewish community to be strong in the future, we need to focus on our students while they’re on campus,” Chestnut said. “I’ve been working with Jewish young people at Kent State University and the University of Akron for 16 years, many of whom have moved back to Ohio, specifically Northeast Ohio, and are now vibrant members of our community.” Chestnut, who originally pursued a career in advertising, quickly realized that career path wasn’t for her. She instead turned to the Jewish community, and applied the skills she gained in advertising and marketing to her job at Hillel at KSU. Now at Hillel International, Chestnut is serving as a key liaison for college campuses in the Midwest, as well as working to grow partnerships and shared responsibility between Hillel International, college and university leaders, and local Jewish community leaders. She also works to help students face and overcome issues on campus, including anti-Israel rhetoric and the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement. “Every day is different,” Chestnut said. “I get to work with really amazing
At a Glance
Age: 40 As a professional: Hillel International Spouse: Sam Children: Beth, 15; Martha, 10; Jason, 7 Synagogue: Anshe Sfard Revere Road Synagogue Noteworthy: Chestnut’s husband, Sam, is head of school at The Lippman School and former head of school at The Ratner School.
people, including my colleagues, students, university professors and community partners. Every day I get to learn something new and different and really make a change.” – Kristen Mott
“Jennifer has a unique ability to connect with people and share her passion for Judaism. She’s had a profound impact on thousands of students.” – From the nomination form
Congratulations to our long-time dear friend, Bart Bookatz, on his great honor.
-Julia and Larry Pollock
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Nan Cohen
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an Cohen, owner and CEO of Creekside Financial Advisors, has connected her way into making a difference, literally. Her passion is connecting people with their passions. “The most important thing I do is just always be available to connect people with what their needs are,” said Cohen. She said she believes people associated with a passion will provide a larger, positive impact to the community. Using extensive connections, she joins people
At a Glance
with their passions through job searches and fundraising, which create a positive impact on society. Through her chair position for Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Women’s Philanthropy, she connects with Jewish women throughout the community, contributing to the engagement of all Jews within society. Cohen has led the expansion of women’s philanthropy. She has learned that everyone has passions and ideas, leading her to value everyone’s opinion.
“She regularly makes use of her extensive contacts to bring people together in the community and help them with job searches, fundraising, and matters that impact our community.” – From the nomination form
Age: 57 As a professional: Creekside Financial Advisors Spouse: Daniel Abrams Synagogue: The Temple-Tifereth Israel In the community: National Council of Jewish Women, chair of Jewish Federation of Cleveland Women’s Philanthropy, Mount Sinai Health Care Foundation, Advisory Board of Magnolia Clubhouse, Jewish Federation Noteworthy: Cohen led the first women’s professional organization to Israel.
As a board member for Magnolia Clubhouse, Cohen stresses the need to help the mentally ill. Cohen gives members of the clubhouse a chance to escape isolation and take a spot within the community.
As a director of the Mount Sinai Health Care Foundation, Cohen provides grants to organizations that assist with the well-being of the Greater Cleveland community. – Max Rothstein
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Barry Feldman
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hen you can do a mitzvah and nobody knows about it, it’s an even higher
At a Glance
mitzvah.” That’s the philosophy preferred by Barry Feldman, president of Kottler Metal Products. “If I can sit in the background, I’m fine,” he said. Yet, he is coming to grips with publicity of his philanthropy, if only for the sake of leading by example. “It sets the pace and sets the example for others, which is really important,” Feldman said. “When you’re in the fore-
Age: 57 As a professional: Kottler Metal Products Synagogue: B’nai Jeshurun Congregation In the community: Jewish National Fund, Jewish Federation of Cleveland, American Friends of Magen David Adom, Menorah Park Foundation, UH Circle of Friends, Hillel, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, Ronald McDonald House, AFMDA national, B’nai Jeshurun Congregation, Jewish Federation of Cleveland trustee and chair of St. Petersburg committee; Menorah Park Foundation
Your legacy helps create a healthier community.
front, you set the pace and baseline for others to do great things.” There’s little doubt Feldman is at the forefront. He chairs the St. Petersburg committee of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, which brings residents of St. Petersburg, Russia (a sister city of Cleveland through the Federation), lay people and people that work in the city’s Jewish community alike, to Cleveland to see how the Jewish community of Cleveland is organized. He is also deeply involved with Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland at University Circle, where a mobile was recently installed to the delight of the children. “When you go there and you see children looking at it and you see the movement and you see the smiles, like MasterCard said, it’s priceless,” Feldman said. And of course, as recognized by his
“Anyone can give but not everyone takes the time to teach the younger generation about the importance of helping others in need.” – From the nomination form 2015 Tree of Life Award, he is deeply involved with Jewish National Fund, working to put a playground, complete with the necessary bomb shelters, in the border community of Sderot. “It’s very rewarding to work to see children have better lives,” Feldman said. – Jonah L. Rosenblum
Today, we celebrate the passion and dedication of these Difference Makers – we are grateful for the powerful impact you’ve made in our community. Your support is a vital reason why we’ll continue to provide the same high-quality care that we have for nearly 150 years. Gifts to University Hospitals continue the legacy of giving from generation to generation – by enabling us to live our mission every day: To Heal – enhancing patient care, experience and access To Teach – training future generations of physicians and scientists To Discover – accelerating medical innovations and clinical research Join the many who are making a difference. To learn more, contact our gift planning team at 216-983-2200 or visit UHGiving.org.
© 2015 University Hospitals
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At a Glance
Matthew Fieldman
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atthew Fieldman, vice president of external affairs at MAGNET, has done much more than give people second chances. Through his efforts at helping found EDWINS, a restaurant run by formerly incarcerated men and women, Fieldman has created second chances for almost 100 former inmates. “Every year, we get a second chance during Yom Kippur,” said Fieldman. “I believe everyone deserves that chance, and one mistake shouldn’t define you.” EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute in Shaker Square involves three buildings for housing, as well as the development of fine dining skills and techniques. The project raised nearly $500,000 to pay the students, create housing opportunities and get the restaurant up and running.
Fieldman also is in a yearlong fellowship for United Synagogue Youth, in which he goes around the country teaching children ways to positively impact the world. With the help of the USY, Fieldman has reached more than 1,000 children. Fieldman has affected Cleveland’s economy through his work at MAGNET, a nonprofit helping midsize manufacturers, along with his work at SEA change. He has sparked the economy with his contribution to small and medium sized companies and their manufacturing. He volunteers for SEA change to help social entrepreneurs make dreams a reality. With his new charitable journey, Fieldman is creating “Cleveland Codes,” boot camps designed to help understand software. – Max Rothstein
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS As a professional: MAGNET Spouse: Alyson Fieldman Children: Liora, 4; Eliana, 6 Synagogue: Congregation Shaarey Tikvah In the community: EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute; United Synagogue Youth; Cleveland Codes; SEA (Social Enterprise Accelerator) change; EDWINS board president
“Matt embodies the true spirit of tikkun olam, always striving to make a difference in every aspect of his life both in Northeast Ohio and in the greater world.” – From the nomination form
Congratulations to the 2015 Difference Makers Thank you for all that you do for the Northeast Ohio Jewish Community
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
Kottler Metal Products, Inc. Margaret Richards Frankel
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r. Margaret Richards Frankel believes that “if you are passionate about something, it will be intrinsically motivating.” And that passion is the fuel that drives her interest in shepherding her ideas through to execution and completion. The Jewish community has much for which it can thank Frankel and her ideas, many being applied to the Young Leadership Division of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. Her efforts, in fact, were recognized when she was the 2014 recipient of the Amb. Milton A. and Roslyn Z. Wolf Young Campaigner of the Year Award, honoring someone age 40 or younger who demonstrates the principles of leadership, dedication and hard work. She describes YLD as the pulse of the young Jewish community and as such, she has taken great joy in organizing a grassroots approach to planning for this population and launching programs. She has grown YLD’s annual Big Event to its third occasion this year, incorporating a fundraising component to it since its inception and raising thousands of dollars, with an attendance of more than 350. “I care about the future of the Jewish community and helping it grow,” she said. Frankel’s life is busy with her professional and civic involvement, but she feels that “there’s always time for what you care about.” – June Scharf
We applaud you, Barry Feldman, Primary Typeface For being chosen as one of the “18 Difference Makers” Respect and Integrity in leading Kottler Metal Products, And your leadership in the Community. Passion in all that you do in life.
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“Margaret is an active supporter of Federation, YLD and Park Synagogue, specifically focusing on engaging young Jewish Clevelanders with their community.” – From the nomination form
J E W I S H FA M I LY S E RV I C E A S S O C I AT I O N O F C L E V E L A N D
At a Glance
Age: 33 As a professional: Richards Frankel Denistry Spouse: Dr. Jonathan Frankel Children: Scarlett, 2 Synagogue: Park Synagogue In the community: Jewish Federations of North America national young leadership cabinet, Greater Cleveland Dental Society, Cleveland Museum of Art, Mandel JCC philanthropy committee, Jewish Federation of Cleveland Young Leadership Division Noteworthy: Frankel is the creator of the annual YLD Big event.
Heidi Solomon (far left standing) with YouthAbility participants and volunteers during their learning trip to San Francisco.
Watermark proudly congratulates Horvitz* YouthAbility Coordinator
HEIDI SOLOMON
Dear Harlan, Thank you for your positive impact throughout NEOhio and in OUR lives, too!
for being recognized as a Difference Maker in our community.
Heidi, your compassion and dedication is inspiring to us all. Mazel Tov on this well-deserved honor!
Technical Details
Love, Jan and Shelly TYPE Univers Condensed
WE ARE JFSA.
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE.
Richard Horvitz and Erica Hartman Horvitz YouthAbility Program
*
216.292.3999
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38 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
Peter Freimark
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eter Freimark, a member of Temple Israel Ner Tamid, makes a difference for people who will never be able to repay him by creating programs through his synagogue to positively affect the Greater Cleveland community. One such program, the peanut butter and Judaism program, created an opportunity to give food to the homeless every Friday night. After services, Freimark, along with other members of the congregation, pass out peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to homeless in downtown Cleveland.
At a Glance
“There is much more that can be said about the way Peter gives back to our community, but I am out of words.”
“It results in a more meaningful Shabbat,” Freimark said. “We not only get services, but we get to end the night knowing we’re helping someone in need.” Another program that originated from Freimark is the Teddy Bear Bank. Across the country, teddy bears are sent to refugees or people who have experienced natural disasters. Other ideas Temple Israel Ner Tamid has started are cleaning and serving sober Passover dinners for alcoholics and delivery of “blessing bags” to homeless, which include items like deodorant
Age: 64 As a professional: Century Framing Synagogue: Temple Israel Ner Tamid In the community: Temple Israel Ner Tamid, Good People Fund Noteworthy: Freimark organized Temple Israel Ner Tamid’s response to Hurricane Katrina.
– From the nomination form
and soap. Freimark also contacted the small city of Bud, W.Va., to help with a water shortage problem. Thanks to his inspiration, Temple Israel Ner Tamid has been a catalyst for communitywide efforts like tzedakah trips to Israel and annual trips to bring school supplies and bottled water to poor people in Appalachia. – Max Rothstein
Congratulations to Dan Zelman 2015 Difference Maker Contributing and Supporting the Jewish Community of Cleveland
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18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
Debbie Friedman
“She is Wonder Woman with small children bringing joy and happiness while practicing and teaching love and kindness.” – From the nomination form
I
don’t consider myself as a having a job,” said Debbie Friedman, the family place coordinator for the Mandel Jewish Community Center in
Beachwood. “My work is my passion, so it feels like I never go to work.” She helps babies and their mothers discover a self-esteem that contributes to a happy life. “My wish is that I plant a seed of goodness that children use to grow with love and care,” Friedman said. Friedman uses techniques like mindfulness through her everyday life, and works to incorporate them into each child she touches. She deals with a lot of sensory art, music and nature to develop positive outlooks for her students. “Be the best that you can be. I shine, we shine, we all shine at the J. Everything grows with love.” These are just some examples of the self-assured attitude that Friedman works to develop in each child as well as in the mothers who come through the program. Increasing happiness and positivity at work isn’t enough for her, though. Her works through Coach Sam’s Inner Circle Foundation, Aiming Higher, help her to teach inner-city children literacy, personal development, and health and wellness. With every opportunity presented to Friedman, she makes sure to provide thanks. Gratitude is a key component in her teachings, which provides a basis for humility as she instills a sense of confidence in each child. – Max Rothstein
At a Glance
Age: 57 As a professional: Mandel Jewish Community Center Spouse: Steve Children: Scott; Kevin; Kenny Synagogue: Park Synagogue In the community: Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Coach Sam’s Inner Circle Foundation Noteworthy: Friedman teaches parents the importance of spending quality time with their children.
Mazel Tov to Harlan & the entire class of 2015 for all you do to better our community! Lynn & Barry Chesler Becky Chesler Jodi & Jeremy Audino Carly & Ari Audino
CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 39
Mia Buchwald Gelles
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hen Mia Buchwald Gelles co-founded Milestones Autism Resources in 2003 with Ilana Hoffer Skoff, she knew she wanted to help and support families in the local Jewish community. As operations director, Buchwald Gelles continues to impact thousands of families through her work at Milestones. “I’ve always been interested in nonprofits and in making a difference,” Buchwald Gelles said. “This field of work sort of chose me rather than me choosing it. “It was clearly a need in the community when I realized that whomever I came in touch with didn’t necessarily have information about what was really effective. After figuring out what worked to help my own family, I knew it was important to try to spread that information.” Buchwald Gelles, along with her staff, works one-on-one with families who are impacted by autism or autism spectrum disorders. She also provides recourses and training for teachers and therapists. “Our whole focus has been on practical, evidence-based information that can make a difference in people’s lives right away,” she said. For Buchwald Gelles, the most enjoyable aspect of her career is witnessing first-hand how Milestones is impacting local families. Her work touches all manner of Jewish schools and agencies. “Autism can be pretty isolating for families and there aren’t easy answers,” she said. “Seeing that you’re really helping people who don’t know where to turn and who don’t realize that there can be hope for the situation that
At a Glance
Age: 49 Employer: Milestones Autism Resources Spouse: Joe Children: Ruth Link-Gelles; Noam; Shani Synagogue: Beth El-The Heights Synagogue in Cleveland Heights In the community: Beth El-The Heights Synagogue, The Center for Jewish Nonviolence, National Havurah committee, Honey Bee Jewish Noteworthy: Gelles helps parents help their children lead Jewish lives.
they’re facing, that’s the most rewarding part for me.” – Kristen Mott
“As a parent, volunteer and professional, Mia has taken a personal challenge and transformed it into an opportunity to help others and created a resource that enriches our entire community.” – From the nomination form
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40 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS
Erika Gold sociation, both in Beachwood. Gold has spent decades helping spread the word to end treatment similar to the Holocaust. During the last year, she has visited schools to discuss tragedies encountered during the reign of Adolf Hitler. She also deals with the Holocaust in other ways, including meeting with child survivors of the Holocaust to rekindle the disgust from such an awful time, therefore enabling her to broadcast peace in society. Through the reparation committee of
At a Glance
E
rika Gold, a Holocaust survivor, keeps busy volunteering for the Jewish community. She spends her days consumed with various Jewish organizations such as the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage and Jewish Family Service As-
Age: 83 As a professional: Retired Spouse: Richard Children: Allen; Marilyn Zaas Synagogue: Temple Israel Ner Tamid In the community: Advisory committee of Jewish Family Service Association, reparation committee of JFSA, National Council of Jewish Women and Yom Hashoah commemoration committee, board member of Temple Israel Ner Tamid Noteworthy: Her work for the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage keeps the Holocaust story alive.
Anita Gray
the downtrodden and I never, ever deviated from that.” Gray became friends with the boy that day and that day only. She never saw him again. She speculates that when he went home, the boy told his parents what happened and they wouldn’t let him out again. “I wish that I could know who he is so I could tell him the huge lesson he taught me.” – Carlo Wolff
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nita Gray knows exactly when she knew she had to make a difference. Gray spent her first 11 – and most formative – years in Cleveland’s Kinsman neighborhood, then largely Jewish and Italian. Things were about to change. Gray was 7 when the first AfricanAmerican family moved in. She was playing with her friends when a little black boy came up to the group “and very shyly said, can I play with you? And the white kids looked at him and said, ‘No, we don’t want to play with you.’ And I looked at this kid’s face. “He was so hurt, he was so crestfallen, and I looked at him and I said, ‘I’ll play with you.’ And the group said, you don’t want to play with him, and I said, ‘No, I’m staying here. I realized how hurt he was, based on the color of his skin, and that was
JFSA, she allocates money to needy people who have been impacted by the Holocaust. “We are given a certain amount of money,” said Gold, “and we distribute it according to how needy the families are. You’d be surprised how many needy families there still are in regards to the Holocaust.” Through her volunteer work, Gold hopes to create a world filled with appreciation for the Jewish heritage, while focusing on taking action rather than being a bystander.
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS “Her hard work, dedication and optimism truly make a difference in our organization every day.” – From the nomination form At 83, Gold finds herself still able to do all the things she loves, despite being diagnosed with breast cancer. “It has been tough at times,” she said. “I still think women need to get checked annually rather than wait an extra year. I wouldn’t have been able to spend this year in treatment if I had waited to get tested.” – Max Rothstein
“She has consistently been a partner, voice and advocate – for those who have no voice, and for the Jewish community.”
At a Glance the day that I became what I call a citizen of the world. His pain was just seared into my soul. “And from that moment on, I have been helping whom I call ‘the other’ and helping
Congratulations to Harlan Diamond on Lifetime Achievement and to all the Difference Makers!
– From the nomination form
Age: 67 As a professional: Anti-Defamation League Children: Lottie; Rachel Gray Stolley Synagogue: Solon Chabad In the community: Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Shoes and Clothes for Kids, Abrahamic Center of Notre Dame College, FBI Citizens Advisory Foundation, past chair and member of Jewish Federation of Cleveland community relations committee Noteworthy: Gray has been consistently involved in interfaith efforts and building ties between the and Palestinian FIDFJewish OH 4.75x2.5 AD_2015.pdf communities. 1 11/11/15 10:13 AM
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FRIENDS OF THE ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES | OHIO CHAPTER
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Friends of the Israel Defense Forces Congratulates
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
LANE SCHLESSEL
Director, FIDF Ohio Chapter as well as all of the Difference Makers on this well-deserved honor! Your support and generosity is invaluable to the IDF soldiers who courageously defend Israel and the entire Jewish People!
THEIR JOB IS TO LOOK AFTER ISRAEL. OURS IS TO LOOK AFTER THEM.
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
Lisa Hacker
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“Her care for her work and her drive to elevate women of all ages in our community is so inspiring.”
ome people are fortunate to never have to work a day in their life. Lisa Hacker, Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s director of women’s philanthropy, is one of those lucky few. “I feel as if I have the best job,” Hacker said. “I get to combine my passion with my work, and make a huge impact in the community at the same time.” Hacker oversees the three sectors involved in women’s philanthropy at the Federation. These sectors include outreach and engagement, leadership development and campaigns. The Federation’s annual Campaign for Jewish Needs always has been successful. But Hacker found a way to raise the bar by raising more than $4.2 million. The funds go toward the betterment of the Federation and its beneficiary organizations. For outreach and engagement sector,
CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 41
At a Glance
Age: 34 As a professional: Jewish Federation of Cleveland Synagogue: Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple, Fairmount Temple Young Professionals Group
Hacker attempts to make women feel connected with the Jewish community. For the signature outreach event, the women’s spring luncheon, she obtained Marne Levine, COO of Instagram Inc., as the featured speaker. The event attracted more than 800 people. Hacker also makes sure the next generation is ready to lead the charge for Judaism. She attempts to remove barriers for women so they can feel confident in leadership positions within the Jewish community.
When asked whether she had a favorite sector, Hacker said, “I honestly believe that all three weave together, which makes it amazing to see how the connections made between each sector make up woman’s philanthropy.” – Max Rothstein
– From the nomination form
Jill Helfman
F
At a Glance
Age: 53 As a professional: Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Spouse: Brad Children: Jared; Justin; Lindsey In the community: Jewish Community Federation of Cleveland, Park Synagogue Mitzvah Day committee, chair of Partnership for Families at University Hospitals, American Friends of Magen David Adom
amily. A word that this difference maker, Jill Helfman, believes to be the most important gift that one can give. Helfman, a lawyer at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, works with University Hospitals to give people a chance to have a family. Last summer, Helfman helped Partnership for Families at University Hospitals raise about $350,000 at a soiree and benefit. As chair of that poartnership, Helfman works to give hope to families with fertility issues. The organization will help pay for procedures such as the second attempt at in vitro fertilization for families that have failed attempts at conceiving, along with the failed first attempt at in vitro fertilization. The agency also will pay for the freezing of eggs for woman going through chemotherapy. The agency provides an
opportunity to pay for expensive procedures, allowing the parents to have the chance to have a family. “There’s no better mitzvah then helping people have a family,” said Helfman. “We’ve helped around 150 babies born through funding for our cause.” Helfman still finds time to do mitzvahs other than helping create families in the community. She works with Park Synagogue to produce mitzvahs on a particular day in May. On average, the synagogue gets about 450 people to contribute to the day through mitzvahs such as giving blood, volunteering at nursing homes, and several other opportunities. And when she’s not helping people in our community, she’s helping the Israelites get through the rough times that have disturbed them. “It feels great to help on the ground
“Jill is pulled in many different directions, and somehow she finds the time to make a difference in the Northeast Ohio Jewish community through her active involvement in many organizations and causes!” – From the nomination form in Israel, especially when the tensions are so high,” Helfman added. – Max Rothstein
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
42 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
J. David Heller
T Jewish Federation OF CLEVELAND
Mazel Tov! TO ALL THE
DIFFERENCE MAKERS BECAUSE OF YOU, OUR COMMUNITY IS STRONGER.
WE ARE JEWISH CLEVELAND AND WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER 2016 Campaign for Jewish Needs
@JewishCleveland | #jewishcleveland
www.jewishcleveland.org
he complimentary forces of nature and nurture have fostered in J. David Heller a deep and longstanding commitment to the Jewish community locally, nationally and internationally. With his father, William Heller, as a role model and primary influence, David grew to find his own place as a leader, but he also is driven by a charitable inclination to extend himself where he can make a difference. A recent example manifests itself with David feeling compelled to address needs created by the rise of the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement on college campuses. He hosted in his backyard a presentation by college students – town-hall style – who addressed a group of 70 local high school students, informing them of the resources available at organizations such as Hillel, Chabad or Buckeyes for Israel to counter messages by campus opposition factions. It was very well received. “Rather than adults, it was students talking to students. It was genuine and comfortable,” he said. His appointment by President George W. Bush in 2009 to a five year term on the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, the governing board for the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, allowed him to lend his voice to actions and decisions that have considerable impact. His adherence to tikkun olam informs his work, driving him “to do a little piece.” He invokes the wisdom of the ancient sage Rabbi Tarfon when he repeats the rabbi’s well-known interpre-
At a Glance
tation: “It’s not your responsibility to finish the work, and you are not free to desist from it either.” Heller hopes that by being recognized as one who makes a difference, others will be encouraged to find some of the many ways they can become involved with the community, too. – June Scharf
“If there was ever a ‘poster boy’ for this award, his name is J. David Heller.” – From the nomination form
Age: 50 As a professional: Principal at NRP Group Spouse: Becky Children: Lindsey, 19; Ben, 17; Ellie, 14; Sam, 12 Synagogue: Park Synagogue In the community: Past chairman of Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Campaign for Jewish Needs; incoming chair of the Cleveland AIPAC chapter; Jewish Community Housing; Mount Sinai Health Care Foundation; United Way of Cleveland; Gross Schechter Day School; Campaign for Affordable Housing; editorial advisory board of Affordable Housing Finance magazine Noteworthy: The Vue apartment complex aims to “mimic a 24/7 lifestyle in a non-24/7 city,” Heller once said.
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 43
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
Esther Cohen Hexter
E
At a Glance
sther Cohen Hexter, a consultant to the Jewish Community Board of Akron, has made a difference through one word: educate. Hexter has worked as a Jewish educator for years, and continues to consult in order to educate even after her “retirement.” As a Jewish educator, Hexter was awarded with chairing the 20th annual Holocaust teacher seminar. She chaired this esteemed event in which the focus was to examine Holocaust survivors’ stories, and teach the attendees on the overall experience for Jews during this time period.
Name: Esther Cohen Hexter Age: 72 As a professional: Consultant to the Jewish Community Board of Akron Spouse: Larry Children: Mariam Synagogue: Beth El Congregation In the community: Beth El Congregation; chairperson of Shaw JCC Yom Hashoah committee; City of Akron Holocaust Commemoration Committee; Ohio Council of Holocaust and Genocide Education Noteworthy: Hexter is a consultant to a Massillon museum with Holocaust survivors’ painting.
Hexter has not let the walls of a classroom limit her teaching about the Holocaust and Jewish culture. As a docent for two very different museums, Hexter educates the community by using exhibits to introduce conversations to the public. “I try to broaden horizons for customers at either museum,” said Hexter. “I also try, through teaching and being a docent, to ensure that Judaism goes forward.” Hexter has not restricted herself as a Jewish educator to Jews only. As a member of the Holocaust commemoration committee, Hexter makes sure to emphasize that events regarding the Holocaust are for the entire community. To ensure the expansion of Judaism, the entire community must become involved through a variety of opportunities such as planned lectures or even a museum visit. Hexter also spends time educating senior citizens at the Shaw JCC.
“Her wide knowledge of Jewish sources, stories, poetry and art differentiated her programming and brought in many new students.” – From the nomination form The students, ranging between 60 and 90 years old, focus on Jewish culture, as well as Holocaust stories. Hexter tries to touch on every aspect of Judaism, to best understand the religion and culture as a whole. – Max Rothstein
NORTHEAST OHIO MEDICAL UNIVERSITY Celebrates NEOMED Board Chair DAVID HELLER and CSU President RONALD BERKMAN for their leadership and being
Difference Makers in:
REPAIRING THE WORLD of health care for our underserved Cleveland neighborhoods PREPARING PRIMARY-CARE PHYSICIANS to meet the community’s unique health care needs MAKING A DIFFERENCE in the health, economy and quality of life in Northeast Ohio
For more information: csuohio.edu/sciences/neomed/neomed • neomed.edu • csuohio.edu ED4S_9.75x5.25_FCAD15.indd 1
11/10/15 9:46 AM
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
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18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
Larry Kadis
To Head of School
JERRY ISAAK-SHAPIRO
For Making a Difference in Cleveland and at JOSEPH AND FLORENCE MANDEL JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
CONGRATULATIONS
To other members of our Mandel JDS family also chosen as Difference Makers: Matt Fieldman (parent), David Heller (alumni parent), Ben Sattin (alumnus and Board member), Heidi Solomon (alumni parent & Mandel JDS / YouthAbilities Coordinator) Steve Weinberg (grandparent) and Chuck Whitehill (alumni parent).
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Have it all … … in a learning environment that reinforces the values you’re living at home. arry Kadis has been a supporter and leader of ORT America in Greater Cleveland for more than 30 years. In March, he is expected to become national president of the New York-based Jewish organization dedicated to providing education to students throughout the world. “Education is very important,” said Kadis, who serves as chair of the executive committee of ORT America’s national board of directors. “It’s a value system my wife and I share. “ORT America is the largest Jewish education and vocational training organization in the world. It’s an essential advocacy and fundraising organization, and the funds we raise make a difference in young people’s lives. For me, the opportunity to help ORT fulfill its mission is very meaningful.” Kadis was selected in January to chair a search committee to select a new national executive director of ORT America. Marty Greenberg was selected in June to replace Alan Klugman, who resigned Jan. 11 as executive director. “When I look back at leading the search committee, the fact that we were quite confident that we found a really good person to lead the organization now and in the future makes me feel good,” he said. “We had a number of very qualified candidates, and we ended up selecting Marty. We’re very pleased with him and what he has accomplished so far.” Kadis said he feels very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to do “some amazing things in our Jewish community.”
At a Glance
“Larry is a role model for those who combine successful careers with community service. His legacy, much like an ORT education, will impact generations to come.” – From the nomination form “Cleveland has a history of doing some great things not only on the local stage, but also on the world stage, and I’m humbled to have the opportunity to be a part of it,” he said. – Ed Wittenberg
Age: 67 As a professional: President, CEO and co-owner of Federal Equipment Co. in Cleveland Spouse: Suellen Children: Justin; Alex; Samantha Synagogue: B’nai Jeshurun Congregation In the community: Chair of executive committee of ORT America’s national board of directors; immediate past chair of AIPAC Cleveland Council; immediate past chair of Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s overseas connections committee; past chair of Israel Bonds Cleveland; past chair of Cleveland chapter of American Friends of Hebrew University; past member of Federation board of trustees Noteworthy: Last June, Kadis, his wife and son Justin participated in Ride for the Living, an annual 50-mile bicycle ride from Auschwitz to the JCC Krakow in Poland.
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
Ruchi Koval “Most importantly, she is a role model to so many people, providing inspiration to families to strive to be the best they can be.” – From the nomination form
R
uchi Koval, co-founder and associate director of Jewish Family Experience, has made a difference through one word: response. She responds to the wants and needs of people in the area so much so that she chose to write a book to respond to questions about prayer. Koval has worked on her book, “Conversations with God,” for the past two years in response to women seeking answers through prayer. “Women felt marginalized at services and would come up to me asking questions like, ‘What’s a prayer I can say for my friend trying to get pregnant?’” said Koval. “And I started writing the answers down, and then I began to add the Hebrew translation, and it evolved into a book.” As the associate director of JFX, Koval teaches spiritual character development workshops to adults in the community. She is also involved in the same program for high school students that teaches the same characteristics but at a much younger age. “It’s the belief and process that spirituality can be achieved by refining character,” Koval added.
Throughout the last several years Koval has also worked on a blog, outoftheorthobox.com. Through the blog, she works to bridge the gaps between denominations. Koval spent this last spring leading a group of women on a trip to Israel. One woman experienced her first trip to Israel, while several other women experienced their first trip in decades. The trip consisted of educational opportunities, tours and festivities that are meaningful in Israeli culture. – Max Rothstein
At a Glance
Name: Ruchi Koval Age: 41 As a professional: Jewish Family Experience Spouse: Rabbi Sruly Koval Children: Mariam, 21; Moshe,19; Yitty 17; Avromi, 15; Hindi, 12; Nosson, 8; Nomi, 5 Noteworthy: Ruchi addressed more than 1,000 people at the Shabbos Project Cleveland’s Challah Bake in October.
Congratulations to the 2015 Difference Makers Thank you for all that you do for the Northeast Ohio Jewish Community
CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 45
The NRP Group Congratulates David Heller for his contributions and support for the Jewish Community of Cleveland. Mazel tov!
NRPGroup.com 216.475.8900
Menorah Park Congratulates All of the 2015 Difference Makers and Especially Members of Our Menorah Park Family: Bart Bookatz Nan Cohen Barry Feldman J. David Heller Larry Kadis Enid Rosenberg Steve Weinberg Dan Zelman
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
At a Glance
Rabbi Yossi Marozov
A
s executive director of Friendship Circle of Cleveland, Rabbi Yossi Marozov views himself as an emissary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. “He taught us to seek out a place in the world where you can make a positive difference,” Marozov said. “Volunteering, both for my wife, Estie, and myself, has been a passion well before we knew each other.”
Age: 40 As a professional: Friendship Circle of Cleveland Spouse: Estie Children: Berel, 15; Mendel, 14; Shmuli, 12; Chana, 9; Mariashe, 6; Mushka, 2; Meir, 1 Noteworthy: Rabbi Yossi serves as a volunteer rabbi at Semach Sedek Shul.
Through his work at Friendship Circle, Marozov aims to provide children and teenagers who have special needs with many of the social and recreational opportunities that are available to members of the general community. He also works to inspire and motivate high school teenagers to share their talents with others through volunteering. After running Friendship Circle for a decade as a small organization, Marozov
“Since 2003, Rabbi Yossi Marozov has been remarkably impacting the lives of children with special needs and their families and Jewish high school teenagers through his exceptional work at Friendship Circle.” – From the nomination form
18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
and Estie professionalized the organization this year by expanding the board, hiring professional staff members who have years of experience in the special education field and expanding the reach of its programs to more children. “We have grown from servicing 150 families to just more than 200 families in the last 18 months,” Marozov said.
“This means more children and families finding more joy, acceptance and positive development in the lives of their children.” The organization now also has 300 teenagers who volunteer annually to help children with special needs develop social skills and live a life filled with happiness. “That’s what drives me and inspires me every day,” Marozov said. – Kristen Mott
The Board of Directors and Staff of Bellefaire JCB congratulate
Brad Schlang Celebrating the achievements of the honorees, we recognize their important contributions to our community.
Congratulations!
for being selected a 2015 Difference Maker
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 47
Enid Rosenberg
E
At a Glance
nid Rosenberg is indisputably a passionate woman. “A force of nature,” is how her husband Dr. David Rosenberg describes her. Stephen H. Hoffman, Jewish Federation of Cleveland president, likens her to a fabled movie character: “If there was a Jewish version of Ghostbusters, Enid would be the one you would call.” “Time and time again, Enid has stepped into some difficult, challenging communal volunteer roles and deftly straightened out the situation,” Hoffman said. “She does her homework, masters the facts, proposes solutions,
Age: 67 As a professional: community volunteer leader Spouse: Dr. David Rosenberg Children: Erin; Justin In the community: Oakwood Country Club past president, Orange schools past president, United Way, Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Jewish Federations of North America, American Jewish Congress, Mount Sinai Health Care Foundation, Ahuja Medical Center, Breakthrough Charter Schools, Cleveland State University Foundation, Menorah Park Center for Senior Living, Park Synagogue Noteworthy: In one year, Rosenberg hit three holes in one. Her house in Pepper Pike features a putting green and a sand trap.
and does whatever it takes to make things happen. An insightful judge of character, Enid has a knack for gathering the right people around her. She understands the need for teamwork. Perhaps most importantly, she looks ahead to anticipate what could be coming down the road.” One of her stunning achievements was helping to reinvent the Mandel JCC and set it on a new path beginning in 2003. She had the skills and characteristics as a leader to prevail in a very challenging situation, said Michael Hyman, Mandel JCC executive director. “She put the right people together at the professional and lay levels, while also rethinking the mission and purpose of the organization.” Tikkun olam guides her efforts, something that’s abundantly apparent when she mentors young adults, enhancing their ability to find jobs and fulfilling roles in the community. Her work with charter schools is another avenue by which has made an impact for youth across the income spectrum, with those
“As long as there is more to repair in this world, Enid will be the one to identify it.” – From the nomination form
in underserved areas gaining the benefit of her energy and enthusiasm. Rosenberg has been making a difference for more than 40 years in Cleveland. Presently, she serves as vice chair of the board for the Federation, vice chair of its Campaign for Jewish Needs and is a Jewish Federations of North America board member. – June Scharf
Mazel Tov Debbie Rothschild
on this Well-deserved honor!
We are proud you are part of our caring family – you inspire us all! Your colleagues and friends from
montefiorecare.org 216.360.9080
theweils.org 440.543.4221 A Montefiore Senior Community
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18 DIFFERENCE MAKERS
Debbie Rothschild
Congratulations to Dan Zelman and all of this year’s Difference Makers Thank you for all you do to help improve Northeast Ohio’s Jewish Community. If you want to reach the Beachwood market, advertise in Beachwood Buzz! Every Resident • Every Business • Every Month 216.297.0200 • sales@beachwoodbuzzmag.com • beachwoodbuzzmag.com
MAZEL TOV!
TO OUR DIRECTOR EMERITUS,
JENNIFER CHESTNUT AND ALL OTHER RECIPIENTS ON BEING NAMED A “DIFFERENCE MAKER”.
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO FOR THE NORTHEAST OHIO JEWISH COMMUNITY Hillel is the home-away-fromhome for 1,500 Jewish students at Kent State University and the University of Akron
kenthillel.org
“Debbie exemplifies making a positive difference with our brethren in Israel, with fellow Jews here in Northeast Ohio and with people in her personal circle of friends, and family.” – From the nomination form
T
here’s one question Montefiore Foundation director Debbie Rothschild always gets: How do you ask for money? “I don’t look at it that way,” Rothschild said. “If I really do my job and I do it well, I give them the opportunity to walk away and feel really good about what they’ve done.” Rothschild’s career raising money for the Jewish community, for the Jewish National Fund and now Montefiore, began with a 1995 trip to Israel. “It changed my life,” Rothschild said. “Connecting to the land and people of Israel dramatically changed who I am and from that point forward I really felt strongly that I wanted to work in the Jewish community and raise my family with strong Jewish values.” That sense of giving has remained strong – enlivened even more so by her recent donation of a kidney. “That experience was really transformative,” Rothschild said. “I was given an opportunity to help someone and I
At a Glance
jumped on it and it was one of the best experiences I can imagine.” Recently, Rothschild has given people more opportunities to give to Montefiore – with resounding success. A spring 2015 brunch brought in more than $100,000 for Montefiore’s new in-home memory care program. A summer 5K brought in more than $55,000. “The 5K was way out of our comfort zone,” Rothschild said. “Why not do something that the community can get involved and have fun with and raise a few shekels (with) at the same time?” The power of giving is something that has transfixed Rothschild for a long time. “If everyone did whatever they could in terms of giving, whether it’s time, talent, treasure or all of that, if you give in whatever way you can, if everyone did that, what a beautiful world it would be, right?” Rothschild said. – Jonah L. Rosenblum
Name: Debbie Rothschild Age: 56 As a professional: Montefiore Spouse: Barry Children: Lilly, 15; Bradley, 10; Melissa, 10 Synagogue: B’nai Jeshurun Congregation In the community: B’nai Jeshurun Congregation, Gross Schechter Day School, Montefiore
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Benjamin Sattin
B
enjamin Sattin, an attorney for Norchi Forbes, LLC, has focused his time and energy on the betterment of his peers. He’s working on closing the gap between college students involved in Hillel and newlyweds discovering their new synagogue. As a former volunteer resident for Moishe House, Sattin, along with his co-residents Mandy DuBro and Josh Kramer, planned, promoted, budgeted and hosted six events each month for Jews in the area. The events included holiday celebrations, educational events, community service and social gettogethers. “I hoped to engage my peers that are stuck in a gap between college, which has Hillel’s and other religious outlets,”
said Sattin, “and the married adults that begin in a new synagogue.” Sattin attempts to close this gap through his help in the creation of young professional groups. The young professional groups associated with Hebrew Free Loan Association and the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage are here to help the 20-somethings join the community rather than back away from it. Sattin still finds time to become more involved within the Anti-Defamation League. “It’s universally noble and rewarding,” Sattin said. “It’s very eye-opening to problems in our world. And it feels good making an impact on the world, not just your community.” Sattin also teaches how to respond to anti-Semitism or bias. – Max Rothstein
At a Glance
Age: 28 As a professional: Norchi Forbes Synagogue: Congregation Shaaray Tikvah In the community: Anti-Defamation League, Maltz Museum Young Professionals Group, Hebrew Free Loan Association Young Professionals Group, Jewish Federation of Cleveland Israel Defense Forces committee, Moishe House, Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School
We congratulate all our friends on this well-deserved honor. Thank you for making such a significant difference in our community.
Fran and Mark Doris and family.
“He has made a dramatic difference in the lives of young Jewish professionals in Cleveland as a co-volunteer resident at Moishe House.” – From the nomination form
Congratulations to our Difference Maker Jill Helfman. You embrace the spirit of Tikkun Olam by donating your time, energy and enthusiasm in all the many volunteer activities that you undertake. We are so proud of you! Love, Brad, Jared, Lindsey and Justin
The Team At Federal Equipment Company Congratulates Larry Kadis For His Contributions To The Jewish Community And His Selection As A Difference Maker In Cleveland www.fedequip.com
50 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS
Bradley J. Schlang
T
he term “difference maker” has been in Bradley J. Schlang’s vocabulary for as long as he can remember. Schlang, a partner in Cedar Brook Financial Advisors, has been raised to make a difference, and a difference he has made. Schlang recently has focused his
money, time and energy into the fulfillment of children’s potential in the Cleveland area. Schlang explained the hardships and challenges brought about to inner-city youth. Through the preparatory schools for Breakthrough Schools, Schlang provides time and money to attempt to give every child the opportunity to attend an excellent prep school. Schlang also puts most of his time and energy into Bellefaire JCB, which he believes, “helps kids achieve their full potential.” Bellefaire JCB has been an aspect in Schlang’s life for the last several decades, moving around from biathlon organization to strategic direction. He finished his term as board chair of Bellefaire JCB in July, and now provides leadership for key fundraising initiatives as Bellefaire looks to expand its services. The transition of his role is timely as Bellefaire continues to grow and respond to the needs of community members facing the challenges of autism, behavioral health and psychiatric disorders
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
At a Glance
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Name: Bradley J. Schlang Age: 48 As a professional: Cedar Brook Financial Advisors Spouse: Heather Children: Sam, 20; Brian, 18 Synagogue: Park Synagogue In the community: vice chair of Community Relations Committee, Community Investment Committee for Education for United Way, Promise Partners, Professional Advisory Council, Jewish Federation of Cleveland, immediate past chair of Bellefaire JCB, immediate past chair of Wingspan Care Group, Park Synagogue, Prep Schools for Breakthrough Schools, Northern Ohio Planned Giving Council
“I want to help expand Bellefaire’s capability for the autistic and mentally disabled population that it serves,” said Schlang. As a financial adviser, Schlang has refocused his time to help charitable families maximize their gift to public institutions. He works to optimize the benefits for both the family and charity in that the money given is used for the correct purposes, as well as expanding the capability that the money actually contains. – Max Rothstein
“Few individuals demonstrate his tremendous versatility of abilities and interests shifting easily between highlevel philanthropic strategy and in-the-trenches committee work for the benefit of the community.” – From the nomination form
Harlan Congratulations! For your outstanding leadership in our community. From Ellen and Victor Cohn
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
Lane Schlessel “Lane’s passion with (BBYO) grew into his deeper love of Israel, sending hundreds of teens and families on trips of a lifetime. It was natural for his next position to be with the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces.”
CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 51
C
ongratulations
Congratulations to Barnett Bookatz Our “Difference Maker,” and to all of the other honored “Difference Makers” today and in the future.
- From the nomination form
W
hen Lane Schlessel retired in 2013 after 30 years of service to BBYO – an international Jewish youth movement based in Washington, D.C., he said it seemed like a natural transition for him to become executive director of the Ohio chapter of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. “When I learned of all the programs FIDF offers for the education and wellbeing of Israeli soldiers, it was a way for me to follow my passion for Israel,” he said. “I feel as though I’m serving the soldiers while they are serving Israel.” During the past year, under Schlessel’s leadership, FIDF’s Ohio chapter has been able to increase involvement in and raise awareness of the nonprofit organization not only in Greater Cleveland, but throughout Ohio as well. “We have been able to change the face of the organization,” he said. “I think everyone should be educated on what we do: the FIDF mission is the soldiers pro-
At a Glance
tect Israel, and we protect the soldiers.” On Jan. 26, Schlessel lost a close friend when Todd Kay, senior regional director of the Ohio Northern Region of BBYO, died suddenly at age 37. In March, BBYO asked Schlessel to step in as a volunteer, part-time leader for the region on an interim basis, and he gladly did so until a replacement for Kay was named in July. “I helped BBYO through probably the most difficult time it has had,” he said. “I wanted to make sure the kids in Northeast Ohio were still able to have the experience of what Todd would have wanted them to have.” Schlessel added the support of his wife, Marla, helps make his success possible. “She is my chief of staff,” he said. “Together we make it happen.” – Ed Wittenberg
Age: 55 As a professional: Friends of the Israel Defense Forces Spouse: Marla Children: Shawn; stepsons Ethan Hirsh and Adam Hirsh Synagogue: Solon Chabad In the community: Shabbos Project Cleveland Noteworthy: Lane is the vice mayor of the city of Lyndhurst.
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CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY congratulates CSU President Ronald M. Berkman CSU Foundation Board of Directors Enid B. Rosenberg CSU Professor of Art History Samantha Baskind for making a difference in our community! EngageForCSU.com CSU is an AA/EO institution. ©2015 University Marketing 151305
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
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Jerry Isaak-Shapiro
A
At a Glance
difference maker doesn’t just impact people around him or her when the opportunity presents itself. A difference maker goes out of his or her way to search for chances to help the community and Jerry Isaak-Shapiro does exactly that. Isaak-Shapiro, head of school at the Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School, always is looking for ways to improve the local Jewish community, as well as the global Jewish community. He has worked to infuse the curriculum of the Mandel Jewish Day School
Name: Jerry Isaak-Shapiro Age: 61 As a professional: Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School Spouse: Debbie Children: Joshua Isaak-Shapiro; Naomi In the community: Jewish Family Service Association, RAVSAK (Jewish Community Day School Network), Independent Schools Association of the Central States, American Diabetes, The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, Day School Leadership Training Institute Noteworthy: Isaak-Shapiro is a member of four synagogues: Congregation Shaarey Tikvah, B’nai Jeshurun Congregation, Moreshet Avraham in Jerusalem, Netivot Shalom in Berkeley, Calif.
with modern Israel. Isaak-Shapiro incorporates Israeli texts, songs and philosophies as one way to improve the Jewish connection between Americans and Israel. The majority of the school’s staff has taken a trip to Israel and each eighthgrade class has visited Israel. Isaak-Shapiro goes out of his way to teach other heads of school to spread similar messages. Through the Day School Leadership Training Institute, Isaak-Shapiro gives himself the opportunity to mentor other heads of school throughout the year, with a one-month intensive workshop during the summer. His biggest challenge arises with the attempt to achieve genuine Jewish pluralism. “The Jewish world needs to come to grips with internal tensions between each other,” said Isaak-Shapiro. “We’ve done best as a people when we’re united.” As a member of RAVSAK, the Jewish Community Day School Network, as well as the head of a Jewish day
Ilana Hoffer Skoff
I
“By education and including and sharing her child’s Jewish growth, she has inspired others to help their own children lead active Jewish lives.” – From the nomination form
lana Hoffer Skoff, Executive Director and co-founder of Milestones Autism Resources, has made it her mission to create opportunities for milestones, literally. “I want to give families the chance to experience religious milestones for their children,” said Skoff. “Children with autism should still have the possibility of a bar or bat mitzvah, confirmation, and eventually graduation.” Skoff, with co-founder Mia Buchwald Gelles, has created a lifeline for parents with autistic children. “As a parent of an autistic child, I felt isolated without any organization to help,” Skoff added. With this newly created lifeline, Skoff has paid particular attention in focusing on children’s’ full potential. She strives to focus on the potential for autistic children instead of focusing on the disability. To reach ones full potential, Skoff has organized internships for kids with autism through companies like the Cleveland Jewish News and Montefiore, for example. The initiative has been a
At a Glance
Name: Ilana Hoffer Skoff Souse: Rabbi Joshua Skoff Children: Jared; Eden Noteworthy: Ilana has won the Irene Zehman Volunteer Award, as well as the Individuals with Disabilities IDEA Award.
success in terms of opening the eyes of the community to people with autism. Milestones’ conferences – which attract 1,000 attendees annually – as well as workshops and trainings, have benefited Jewish professionals hailing from many organizations to better serve Jewish families of children with autism and other special needs. “When we stop to look at the strength of someone rather than the disability,” Skoff begins, “it can improve the outcome for everyone. And Cleveland is the perfect city for it. It’s a city that when people want something done, they roll up their sleeves and do it.” – Max Rothstein
“Jerry has led the community’s pluralistic day school to a level of excellence that is benefitting the entire community.” – From the nomination form school, Isaak-Shapiro works constantly to encourage the tolerance of different denominations within the Jewish community. The reduction of boundaries between the Jewish people will lead to a more powerful community as a whole, according to Isaak-Shapiro. – Max Rothstein
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NOVEMBER 13, 2015
At a Glance
As a professional: Jewish Family Services Association of Cleveland Spouse: Rick Children: Daniel; AJ In the community: Jewish Big Brother Big Sister, Rescue Village, Cleveland Metroparks, Case Western Reserve University Friendship Family Program, Ohio City Bicycle Co-op Noteworthy: Heidi leads Horvitz YouthAbility, which delivers lunch weekly to Jewish organizations.
Heidi Solomon
T
he only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday” is this difference maker’s daily goal. Heidi Solomon, Jewish Family Service Association Horvitz YouthAbility coordinator, believes she is an average community member, though she actually benefits any organization in which she becomes involved. Solomon teaches disabled children through mutually beneficial actions and volunteering. The kids become involved in the community, and feel good about the deeds they do for people throughout the area. Solomon finds ways to tie her work into other volunteer opportunities in Cleveland. She has spent the past few years working on the development of a trail program in the Cleveland Me-
troparks. The Chagrin Loop Overlook Trail is the result of Solomon’s hard work and dedication to make this city as good as she thinks it can be. Solomon still finds time to welcome foreign students to the area. Through the Case Western Reserve University Friendship Family Program, Solomon and her family interact with foreign graduate students to give them a taste of American culture. The activities, like going out to dinner, are not exactly taxing or overbearing, but they provide the students with opportunities to get involved in the community. “I’m just fortunate that in my life, I have many opportunities to interact in meaningful ways with a wide variety of people,” she said. – Max Rothstein
“Through her vision and sheer persistence and determination she has touched and impacted dozens of families with special needs in our community.” – From the nomination form
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Rabbi Zachary Truboff
R
abbi Zachary Truboff, rabbi of Oheb Zedek-Cedar Sinai Synagogue, has extended his horizon to make a difference in Cleveland’s Jewish community. His motivation to go beyond the Orthodox community in order to spread Jewish unity has brought Jewish society closer together. “I’ve worked to champion this shul in becoming more open and inclusive to the community,” Truboff said. The last few years, Cedar Sinai Synagogue has become revitalized and seen twice as many members as it had five years ago. Truboff constantly urges to connect between denominations and increased involvement throughout the entire Jewish community. He does a rare deed in going to synagogues and temples of different denominations to spread Jewish unity. Truboff has been an active member in the community working to reach as broad of a crowd as he can. In his journey, Truboff co-founded the Cleveland Jewish Arts and Culture Lab, providing an annual fellowship for Jewish artists throughout the city. The fellowship, presented each year in May, represents Jewish diversity and gives artists the chance to study a Jewish theme in order to inspire artwork. “Arts are an opportunity to bring Jews together without barriers that synagogues and denominations present,” Truboff said. The fellowship is in the midst of broadening its reach to satellite cities including St. Petersburg, Russia, and Beit She’an, Israel. The Cleveland Jewish Arts and Culture Lab has worked to extend this opportunity across the country to augment Jewish culture through inspirational themes. – Max Rothstein
“Rabbi Truboff has enabled people to find their Jewish voices through connecting with their creativity.” – From the nomination form
At a Glance
Age: 34 As a professional: Oheb Zedek Cedar Sinai Synagogue; co-founder of Cleveland Jewish Arts and Culture Lab Spouse: Jennifer Children: Nahum, 8; Elihai, 5; Shaiya, 2 Synagogue: Oheb Zedek-Cedar Sinai Synagogue In the community: Cleveland Board of Rabbis, Jewish Law Association, Officer of International Rabbinic Fellowship, Project Love
MAZAL TOV! Anita Gray
Congratulations Harlan Diamond and Vice Mayor Lane Schlessel on your achievements
The ADL family is so proud of your recognition.
Anti-Defamation League®
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
54 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG/DIFFERENCEMAKERS
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Steve Weinberg
H
At a Glance
elping families struggle with age and special needs is Steve Weinberg’s mission. He said that even though such populations differ, expert help for them is available in Greater Cleveland’s Jewish community. About 40 years ago, as his German immigrant parents were aging, Weinberg came to realize that Menorah Park would be a great place to learn about and contribute to the elderly community. He’d already caught the helping bug from Elmer Paull, a lay leader and community activist for whom he worked
Age: 72 As a professional: Weinberg Wealth Management Spouse: Penni Children: Jennifer Dinner; Pamela Kahn; Stephanie Miller Synagogue: Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple In the community: Jewish Federation of Cleveland, life trustee at Menorah Park and Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple, board chair at Friendship Circle Noteworthy: Weinberg always wanted to be a major-league baseball player.
in his 20s. Paull, who Weinberg said inspired him to become involved with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland (where Paull was a life trustee) died in July. “I think I realized at a young age that I would be able to participate and do more to further and assist the Jewish community than my family had done prior,” Weinberg said. Paull helped him find his true path, his parents’ condition nourished that impulse, and now he’s turned his attention to the younger generation. “Most recently, as chairman of the Friendship Circle, I have an opportunity to assist families who have children with special needs,” said Weinberg. “I’m personally blessed with eight healthy grandchildren. “So being able to help families that
Chuck Whitehill
C
harles “Chuck” Whitehill has made a difference by representing the epitome of a mensch. Honor and integrity, the key words in defining a mensch, sum up Whitehill. He recently has spent a majority of his time caring for his wife, Joan, who has Parkinson’s disease. “If you have the opportunity to do a mitzvah for your wife, there is no greater calling,” he said. After retiring three years ago to care for his wife full time, Whitehill still has worked to remain a strong influence in
“Chuck has been a difference maker from the moment he settled in Cleveland, touching lives through generous donations of his time, skills and money.” – From the nomination form
the Jewish community. He has put a great deal of focus into the education system. As a member of the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland, Whitehill combines fundraising efforts for the
Jewish Federation of Cleveland to enhance educational opportunities for the community. Whitehill doesn’t let disabilities impact the opportunities that can be provided. Through Friendship Circle of Cleveland, he provides his time and money to help mentally disabled children find confidence to improve everyday life for them and their families. Whitehill said the Cleveland Jewish community is the source of world-class leadership. “This is the only city, I believe, where people can so easily gravitate towards the top,” Whitehill said. Whitehill also has spent time focusing on ways to help Israel. His main contribution is through donations to American Friends of Magen David, which result in increased care in the form of blood services, trauma relief and ambulances. – Max Rothstein
“Steve is an example of a true ‘mensch.’ Steve has strong values, morals, integrity and an unselfish attitude toward those who need help.” – From the nomination form do struggle with the special needs of their children gives me a great opportunity to give back.” – Carlo Wolff
At a Glance
Age: 67 As a professional: Retired Spouse: Joan Children: Dorie Galipo Synagogue: B’nai Jeshurun Congregation In the community: Jewish Education Center of Cleveland, Friendship Circle of Cleveland, Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Jewish National Fund, American Friends of Magen David Adom, Israel Bonds, Cleveland Jewish News Foundation
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Jerry Zahler
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erry Zahler, owner of Zahler Realty, works as a “behind the scenes kind of guy” to make his difference in our community. “He does the dirty work that no one else wants to do,” said his daughter, Janet Baum. “He works on the underbelly of projects since he’s a doer for the challenging aspects in order to create a better community.” Zahler recently spent his time and money on the merger of Cedar Road Synagogue and Sinai Synagogue. The merger created what is now Oheb ZedekCedar Sinai Synagogue. The merger wouldn’t have been a possibility without the ideas and monetary support from Zahler. His initiative created a Modern Orthodox shul that aims to merge social responsibility with values resonated from Torah. Even more recently, Zahler has aimed to repair the crumbling Jewish cemeteries throughout Cleveland.
Jerry is a consensus builder and worked tirelessly to merge Sinai Synagogue to Cedar Road Shul and save a place for the memorial plaques so our loved ones won’t be forgotten. – From the nomination form “I went to the Federation and explained that these are our cemeteries,” said Zahler. “The Federation realized that no one would help if they didn’t.” With a lack of a large Jewish population near the cemeteries, they’ve been
At a Glance
Age: 88 As a professional: Zahler Realty Spouse: Iris Children: Janet Baum; Warren In the community: Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Friendship Circle of Cleveland
allowed to slowly disintegrate. The Federation has now launched a cemetery preservation campaign to fund the improvements for Jewish cemeteries. The goal of the campaign is to raise at least $3.5 million for the endowment of annual maintenance necessary for local cemeteries. – Max Rothstein
Dan Zelman
I
At a Glance
n his first year as general chair of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Campaign for Jewish Needs, Dan Zelman spearheaded a campaign that raised more than $30.3 million last year – the first time in seven years that the $30 million mark had been surpassed. It’s difficult to imagine a more tangible way of making a difference as a volunteer in the Cleveland Jewish community. “I think the campaign we ran in 2015 and so far in 2016 have both been outstanding campaigns in which we have
Age: 59 As a professional: CEO of Paro Services Corp. Spouse: Ellen Children: Andrew; Brett; Kara Synagogue: Park Synagogue Noteworthy: Dan’s family shares a common passion for the publishing business. His son, Andrew, is CEO of Euclid Media Group, which publishes Cleveland Scene magazine, and his sister Debby Zelman Rapoport is editor and publisher of Beachwood Buzz.
raised a significant amount of money to help many people in need, both here and in the Jewish world,” said Zelman, now in his second year as general chair. “I have worked hard to be as inclusive as possible and enlist help from as many people as possible, because no one could do it by themselves.” Zelman said he has been involved with the Campaign for Jewish Needs for 37 years – since he was 22. He said the Federation and its campaign are the backbone behind what he calls a “phenomenal Jewish community” in Cleveland. “A very high percentage of our Jewish residents are active and supportive of the campaign,” he said. “As a direct result of that, we have one of the finest agencies in the country. “Jewish law says you do tikkun olam
“It is Dan’s steadfast dedication and enthusiasm for the Federation’s work that makes him an ideal candidate for this recognition.” – From the nomination form so to the extent that I’ve been fortunate enough to spend both my time and my resources to help those in need, I want to do that.” – Ed Wittenberg
Can’t join us at the event? Watch live online at
cjn.org/differencemakers Beginning at 7:30p.m. on Wednesday 11/18
Makingaadifference difference Making Making a difference
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November 13, 2015
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26th + 27th Floor 216-736-2801 26th 26th ++27th 27th Floor Floor 216-736-2801 216-736-2801 Cleveland, OH 44114-2614 richard.freedman@ubs.com richard.freedman@ubs.com Cleveland, Cleveland, OH OHAdvisory 44114-2614 44114-2614 richard.freedman@ubs.com Kensington Richard C. Freedman 216-696-5900 800-533-6386 216-696-5900 216-696-5900 800-533-6386 800-533-6386 Group First Vice President-Wealth 600 Superior Avenue East 26th + 27th Floor Cleveland, OH 44114-2614 216-696-5900 800-533-6386
Management 216-736-2801 richard.freedman@ubs.com
216-736-2802 216-736-2802 216-736-2802 laurence.bricmont@ubs.com laurence.bricmont@ubs.com laurence.bricmont@ubs.com Laurence D. Bricmont Vice President-Wealth Management 216-736-2802 laurence.bricmont@ubs.com
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