DJN December 31, 2020

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Seven Detroit students and their Jewish attorney sued the state over their lack of basic literacy. Here’s the story behind their landmark lawsuit and its aftermath.

See page 12

NOVEMBER 19 • 2020

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Nazli G. Sater

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Family Law Practice Chair | Partner 248.784.5178 nsater@wnj.com

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Happy New Year!

contents Dec. 31, 2020-Jan. 6, 2021 / 16-22 Tevet 5781 | VOLUME CLVIII, ISSUE 22

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Views

Moments

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JEWS D IN THE

The Right to Read

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Seven Detroit students and a Jewish attorney with Michigan roots sued the state for education access. Behind the landmark lawsuit and its aftermath.

The Man Behind the COVID-19 Vaccine Trials

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Virologist credits Detroit upbringing with skills he used to expedite vaccine.

Hillel Head of School Reflects on “Rollercoaster” First Year

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Katz began planning the school’s fall reopening in April.

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Torah portion

Community Directory 26

Listings

Technology 31

Jews in the Digital Age: New App Enhances Prayer During Pandemic

ARTS&LIFE Andrew’s Top Movie Picks of 2020

New Jewish climate justice group ‘Dayenu’ mobilizes Michigan voters.

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Suicide Hotline Inspires Play

Alumni Step Up

35

Danny Raskin’s 2020 Recap

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Celebrity Jews

The Friends of Pasteur School help needy families during the pandemic.

A Bar Mitzvah Like No Other

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Spirit

32

Turning Up the Heat

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Moments

A very socially distant bar mitzvah celebration.

Ann Arbor native wins national writing competition.

Online Events

32 Etc. The Exchange 38 Soul 40 Looking Back 46 Shabbat Lights

Shabbat Starts: Friday, Jan. 1, 4:52 p.m.

Shabbat Ends: Saturday, Jan. 2, 5:59 p.m.

* Times according to Yeshiva Beth Yehudah calendar.

ON THE COVER: Cover photo/credit: Osborn High Counselor Andrea Jackson, graduate Jamarria Hill and attorneys Mark Rosenbaum and Michael Kelley.

Courtesy of Detroit Literacy Group Cover design: Kaitlyn Schoen

thejewishnews.com Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook @DetroitJewishNews Twitter @JewishNewsDet Instagram @detroitjewishnews

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Eretz

Abraham Ambassadors

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Two local businessmen, serving as diplomats in Arab nations, play role in Middle East peace accords.

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VIEWS for openers

Spreading Happiness with Flowers

A

llow me to introduce my fabulous cousin Feiga Bowick, LLMSW. She’s a geriatric social worker, currently working as resident service coordinator at the Harriet and Ben Teitel Apartments, an independent senior living community Rochel (part of Jewish Burstyn Senior Life) in Oak Park.

Every Wednesday morning, this awesome mom of five can be seen dropping off her kids at school and then driving up to Trader Joe’s in Royal Oak, where between 15 and 60+ gorgeous bouquets of flowers are waiting for her. Feiga fills up her trunk with the donated flowers and drives to work, first delivering bouquets to the residents who live at the Coville Assisted Living and Memory Care Apartments, the Anna and Meyer Prentis Apartments (independent senior living) and then “her” residents at Teitel.

In the almost four years since she began this program, thousands of bouquets have been divided and arranged by hundreds of senior residents. Once arranged into little vases, the flowers go on every tabletop space in the dining and living areas, adding charming pops of color throughout the building and being thoroughly enjoyed by

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

everyone who sees them.

Flower arranging originally appealed to Feiga because she realized that every resident was able to participate, regardless of their cognitive or physical limitations. One resident was over 100 years old, and blind — but even she was exclaiming at the texture and scent of the flowers.

Another had lost the ability to speak, but was still touching and enjoying them.

“There’s something about flowers,” Feiga mused. “When I’m carrying them, whoever I pass automatically smiles. People can’t help it.

Feiga Bowick Flowers just make people happy.”

Even just one flower can do it! Recently one senior resident bought a bouquet of roses (“On sale for $2.99,” he later told Feiga proudly!), divided them up and gave a single rose to each Teitel staff worker with some genuine words of thanks.

Feiga was so touched.

“It’s just knowing that someone thought of me, that someone appreciates me,” she said.

All in all, Wednesdays should be annoying for Feiga — heading out of her way, water spilling all over her car, such a shlep, what a hassle — but no, it’s her favorite day of the week.

It helps that Trader Joe’s

has a reputation for being allround awesome (long live their cherry chocolate chip soy ice cream!) — they even make Feiga feel like she’s doing them a favor by taking their leftover bouquets!

Which makes Feiga come into work with her usual big heart overflowing and eager to make others feel good, and these smiles and good feelings continue to spread all day, all week, from resident to worker to visitor to volunteer and around the city, until the following Wednesday when the fresh batch of flowers arrives…

This brings her so much joy because happiness, as we all know, comes from giving.

“One thing I’ve learned from being a social worker is that people want to make an impact,” Feiga said. “There are so many amazing people with such huge hearts.

Not everybody has to do a humungous sweeping mindblowing act of kindness every day. There are little ways to give to others that can literally change their world. We have no idea what’s going on in other people’s lives and can never know what difference even just a genuine smile, with eye contact, and a kind word can make.”

It has not been an easy year for anyone — from trying to figure out how to elbow bump friends from 6 feet apart to how to open those plastic bags in the fruit and vegetable aisle without licking your finger, to say the least — but the year is finally ending.

Move over, COVID! We’re ready for small acts of kindness that keep on spreading and making the world a better and happier place for everyone to go viral now!

Happy, healthy 2021 to everyone!

guest column letters

DAVID NATHANSON

The RBG platter S. DAVID NATHANSON, M.D.

R

uth Bader Ginsburg, the longest-serving Jewish associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her death in September 2020, is fondly remembered for her groundbreaking majority opinions, advocacy for gender equality and women’s rights, gender discrimination cases, and for her passionate dissents in numerous disputes.

She is revered by many for making significant legal advances for women, including winning five gender discrimination cases before the Supreme Court between 1973 and 1976, and for encouraging women to speak up about their experiences with sexual harassment.

RBG had a collection of lace neckbands (jabots), or collars, from around the world. She often wore a jabot when issuing her dissents (black with gold embroidery and faceted stones) as well as another she wore when issuing majority opinions (crocheted yellow and cream with crystals), which was a gift from her law clerks. Her favorite jabot (woven with white beads) was from Cape Town, South Africa.

When RBG died in September, I thought of my friend, Rebecca Leitman Veidlinger, who I knew would be affected tremendously by her passing.

Rebecca, a Bloomfield Hillsbred, Ann Arbor-based lawyer, whose work focuses on sex discrimination in

Dr. Peven and Fertility Fraud Oh my. The implications are astronomical (Dec. 24, cover story). Brother/ sisters married. Children affected.

All need to have their DNA checked. Scary!

- Flora Miskin Castleman Facebook comment

Drive-Up Mourning The Veidlinger family: Jeff, who directs the Frankel Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Michigan; Rebecca; and their two daughters, Naomi and Mae.

education, told me of her deep admiration for RBG. “While taking a feminist jurisprudence class in graduate school I learned about RBG’s advocacy and really appreciated her way of doing things. She had an incremental, super-logical way of addressing how sexism harms women, and men,” she said.

Rebecca has a huge respect for RBG’s personal accomplishments, particularly how she excelled in law school while juggling additional roles as mother and supportive wife. Rebecca confided that she found many answers in feminist theory to problematic issues that she herself experienced and observed.

Josh Nathanson, co-owner of Gallery and Goods, an antique store in Pine Plains, N.Y., designed a large, dark ceramic platter, the color simulating the Supreme Court robe RBG wore, which also features a replica of her

ivory-colored jabot, creating a striking and memorable dedication to the famed jurist.

The auctioned proceeds of this unique hand-made piece of pottery was donated to Willow Roots, a charitable organization in Upstate New York, dedicated to eliminating hunger, putting food on the tables for those struggling through the current pandemic and beyond, eliminating waste, and advocating for healthy living.

Rebecca, through a series of unique coincidences, acquired the RBG platter on Thanksgiving.

“I’m so grateful that I am able to celebrate the life, memory and triumphs of RBG by displaying this wonderful piece in my family room,” Rebecca said.

Now she, her family, and friends, can celebrate with other RBG fans in her home as she dedicates her career to important social causes.

Our recent story on Ira Kaufman Chapel introducing drive-up greeting lines for funerals (Dec. 10, pg. 25) generated online discussion.

Why are they doing this before the funeral service begins rather than after?

According to Jewish law one should not attempt to comfort a mourner until after their loved one has been buried. “Receiving lines” before a funeral are quite at odds with this principle.

- Nancy Federman Kaplan Facebook comment

I didn’t realize that visiting prior to the burial wasn’t the “norm” as I’ve never been to a funeral outside MI. I also learned a few years ago about the mitzvah of putting a shovel of dirt on the casket.

I have found that until someone actually loses someone close, there is a lack of knowledge about traditional practices when someone dies. It’s almost

continued on page 10

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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VIEWS continued from page 9

as if people don’t want to talk about death. When my mom died we took our children to the funeral home so they would learn about what was going to happen.

I also know that many times I’m not able to go to the cemetery, and with shivah now going from 7 days to maybe 1 or 3, it actually becomes difficult to see the mourners. Or people from other states leaving prior to shivah.

In this modern world, it seems we take less time to actually mourn with the community. Given that, I’m glad the funeral homes are looking for ways for people to comfort the mourners, even if non-traditional.

conversation built solidarity and fostered mutual understanding. Insofar as our struggles are linked, that solidarity will be essential if we hope to dismantle antisemitism in our lifetime.

- IfNotNow Detroit Statement provided to JN

Zion and Jew are identical.

Israel is the original homeland of the Jewish people as Italy is that of Italian Americans. Boycott Serbia? Divest from Ethiopia? Sanction Sri Lanka? That’s antisemitism and only the left has trouble defining [it]!

- Joseph Zaffern Website comment

- Linda Levine Blumstein Facebook comment

‘Dismantling Antisemitism’ Panel IfNotNow, and the movement of young Jews it represents, believes that fighting antisemitism and keeping our people safe requires partnering across communities and embedding our struggle within the broader movement for social justice.

As such, the panel discussion’s focus on how we can dismantle antisemitism in practice was highly successful (Dec. 24, pg. 10). By sharing perspectives across different movements and communities, the

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

New WSU Press Director I think the happiest university press news this year is Wayne State going from awful turmoil back in February to a great new director (Dec. 24, pg. 18) and lots of vocal support.

- Derek Krissoff Director West Virginia University Press Via Twitter

Awesome to see the Jewish News covering WSU Press — an important Jewish studies publisher — and its director, Stephanie Williams.

Rafael Chaiken Director, Central Conference of American Rabbis Press Via Twitter

Yiddish Limerick Happy New Year Dos is nisht Rosh HaShana, men ruft dos New Year A naye beginning far alle in here.

A yontef far Yidn and also the rest Hobn tzvay naye yorn is really the best.

Lomir trinken a L’Chaim mit a glazl of beer.

Dos is nisht - This is not men ruft dos - it is called A naye - a new far alle- for everyone A yontef far Yidn - A holiday for Jews Hobn tzvay naye yorn- to have two New Years Lomir trinken - let us drink L’Chaim mit a glazl - with a little glass

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JEWSINTHED ON THE COVER

Seven Detroit students and their Jewish attorney sued the state over their lack of basic literacy. Here’s the story behind their landmark lawsuit and its aftermath.

CORRIE COLF CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A

large brick building with caging on the windows, metal detectors and security guards greet guests when they arrive at Osborn High School in northeast Detroit. Rodents, garbage cans and unusable bathrooms abound. There aren’t enough desks, teachers or books.

Welcome to public school in Detroit.

“It really felt like I was going into a jail, more so than school,” Osborn grad Jamarria Hill said.

Twenty-year-old Hill grew up in the city of Detroit. He was just 15 years old when attorney Mark Rosenbaum approached him, his father and his other basketball teammates after one of their summer games.

Rosenbaum informed Hill and his father, who was the athletic director and basketball coach at Osborn, about the opportunity to join a lawsuit that would fight for a better education and a constitutional right to literacy.

Mark “If the schools are bad and Rosenbaum torn down, then the neighborhood is bad and torn down,” Hill said.

“Then when there are schools being closed

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ANTHONY LANZILOTE/BRIDGE MAGAZINE

Right to Read

DETROIT LITERACY GROUP

The

and incarceration centers being built, and then they’re looking at our test scores to predict, not just what job or career we will have, but if we’re going to be in jail or dead.

“So, basically, it was like, how can we be productive citizens to society without education?”

Growing up, Hill attended charter schools.

Arriving at Osborn for high school was his first experience with Detroit public schools.

“I took school for granted, as most people do when they have a great school foundation,” Hill said. “My mom always told me how bad Detroit public schools were because she grew up in Detroit public schools, but I never really understood what she meant by it until I got into high school.”

In 2016, Hill and six other students from Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPS) had had enough of these conditions.

They sued the state of Michigan and thenGov. Rick Snyder (later, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer became the lead named defendant), claiming they were not taught how to read during their time in the low-performing schools of Detroit. Rosenbaum was their lead attorney.

The case, also known as the “Right to Read” lawsuit, argued that all children have a constitutional right to literacy and to a basic minimum education. The lawsuit went on for four years and ended this June in a landmark settlement.

And Rosenbaum, a Los Angeles-based attorney who has spent decades spearheading big legal battles for civil rights, found himself returning to Michigan — a state where he completed his own undergraduate education and taught law for decades — in order to sue it. But he saw it as a fight worth having.

“I don’t think there’s a more important fight in this country than the fight to see that all kids have a fair education,” Rosenbaum said. “As long as they don’t have access to literacy, the nation isn’t a democracy and isn’t true to its ideals.”

A PATH TO SOCIAL JUSTICE Rosenbaum didn’t always see himself as a lawyer.

He was raised in Cincinnati as a Reform Jew and attended Sunday school at the city’s Hebrew Union College as a child. He com-

“I wouldn’t say my religious upbringing formally had a huge impact on me, but I was schooled and aware of Jews playing an important role in advancing social justice. And that was life-changing for me,” Rosenbaum said.

He currently works for the pro-bono legal firm Public Counsel, where he is directing attorney for the firm’s Opportunity Under Law project, which focuses on economic injustice.

To Rosenbaum, returning to Michigan was significant because “being in Michigan was transformative for my life and made me a better person. I was born in Cincinnati, but my real home is Michigan.”

A DIVE INTO THE LAWSUIT Rosenbaum has been involved with many educational equality cases, such as Williams v. California, a lawsuit where he secured over $1 billion for underserved schools to buy textbooks, hire qualified teachers and provide safe and sanitary school facilities. But nothing could have prepared him for what he’d find in Detroit.

Rosenbaum was informed by community and teacher groups that he’d previously worked with about the obstacles that DPS students had been facing. These firsthand accounts of what was happening inside DPS contributed to his decision to pursue this case.

Some students did not have a teacher in

DETROIT LITERACY GROUP

pleted his undergraduate degree in pre-med at the University of Michigan, but then made a big change.

“My father had been forced to leave medical school due to the Great Depression,” Rosenbaum said. “I was supposed to pick up the mantle and become a doctor, but it wasn’t my passion. I heard a radical lawyer talk about what it meant to be a lawyer during the ’60s, the rule of law and how to represent activists for civil rights, and that had a profound impact on me.”

Instead of medical school, he attended Harvard Law School. When Rosenbaum arrived, he was “flabbergasted that every law student wasn’t studying to become a civil rights lawyer.” He didn’t even realize that there were other types of law. But he knew that he was meant to fight for civil rights.

After graduating from Harvard, Rosenbaum’s law career began by taking on antiwar and Vietnam War cases, which took him to Los Angeles. He worked for 40 years with the ACLU in L.A., and for more than 20 years was also teaching at U-M’s law school.

Frequently commuting from L.A. to Ann Arbor was a drain, but the nature of Rosenbaum’s work allowed him to make connections with the ACLU of Detroit.

Eventually, that would lead him to the “right to read” lawsuit.

Although he says he’s drifted away from the formal aspects of Judaism, he was always aware of social justice and cultural traditions.

Members of the Detroit Literacy Group outside of Osborn High School: Andrea Jackson, counselor and parent; Jamarria Hill, Osborn graduate; Mark Rosenbaum, director of the Public Counsel law firm’s Opportunity Under Law project; Michael Kelley, law partner at Sidley Austin LLP.

their classroom; temperatures in the schools ranged from below freezing to 90 degrees due to lack of proper heating/cooling equipment; and some students and teachers had even passed out because of the heat.

What Rosenbaum saw lined up with what Hill experienced as a Detroit public schools’ student.

On a typical day in class, “we’re all watching a movie because there’s not a teacher available to teach us,” Hill said. “It’s sad because it’s more so like a daycare than a school and we’re learning at a third- and fourth-grade level comprehension instead of high school work.”

It was evident to Rosenbaum that students were not being given age-appropriate instruction and were often graduating from school without knowledge of even basic reading.

In 2019, the National Assessment of Educational Progress rated Detroit lowest in average reading scores compared to 26 other urban school districts. That year, only 6% of students in Detroit public schools performed at or above the NAEP’s “Proficient” level in reading.

And if students don’t learn literacy in school, they often never will. A 2011 report found that 47% of adults in Detroit were functionally illiterate.

“I never met a student who had a book to take home. The books that they had in a classroom were older than they were, and most had been obtained by teachers at garage sales or through donor websites,” Rosenbaum said, contrasting the conditions at DPS with those of the school districts in nearby, wealthier communities. “For any of us to be aware of those sorts of injustices while children in Bloomfield Hills and Ann Arbor are on campuses that could double for college campuses is not right.”

Rosenbaum decided to take on the issue and truly find the root of the problem.

He met with DPS teachers and had them speak to some of the students and parents about joining his lawsuit. He also had reached out to organizations in the community that worked with the same kids.

“I think the families wanted to make sure that their children did better than they did. I don’t think for those of us who are privileged, that we really understand what strength it takes to say, ‘I can’t read,’ or ‘I can’t do basic math,’” Rosenbaum said.

“I had one young man that was a senior continued on page 14 DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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JEWSINTHED ON THE COVER

continued from page 13

and was at the top of his class, and he had never read a novel. He couldn’t write a three-paragraph essay. But he wasn’t involved in this lawsuit for himself, but rather for his siblings so they could have a chance at an education. So, I just think it was part of their character in terms of wanting to stand up to the state and say, ‘You can’t treat us like we’re less than human.’”

After some time, Rosenbaum had found the ideal group of seven students to represent: a group ranging from elementary school to high school, to communicate the full scope of the problem. He began to assemble his case.

They began by suing then-Gov. Snyder in 2016, claiming that the state is responsible for the lack of literacy and that students have a conditional right to a basic minimal education. The complaint was then dismissed by the state. From there, the case went to a federal district court in Detroit in front of Judge Stephen Murphy in 2018.

In his decision, Murphy agreed that the state is responsible for the lack of literacy the students are experiencing in DPS. But, he decided, there has never been a case that has ruled that students have constitutional right of access to literacy or to a basic minimal education. There was no constitutional precedent for a “right to read.”

Rosenbaum appealed Murphy’s decision to the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, which handles all federal appeals in Ohio, Tennessee, Kentucky and Michigan. By this point, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer had been elected and replaced Snyder as the defendant in the case. She indicated she was interested in settling the suit without having it drag out further, and began negotiations.

In April 2020, for the first time in U.S. history, the court ruled two-to-one that every student has a constitutional right to a basic minimum education. The dissenting judge, Eric Murphy, voted against the ruling because he believed that it violated states’ rights to determine their own educational policies.

After the ruling, Rosenbaum and Whitmer, the chief defendant in the case, began confidential settlement discussions and the case was ultimately settled.

The settlement ensures that the state will pay a total of $40,000 to each student that

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

was represented in the case. The money is to go toward continuing their education or helping them pay for additional help to make up for the deficiencies they experienced in school. $2.7 million is also set to go to the Detroit Public Schools district.

In addition, Whitmer has promised to pursue legislation that would bring an additional $94 million to the district. The money will go to increasing teacher salary, literacy aides, literacy coaches, new literacy materials and fixing up the buildings.

Unfortunately, the court’s finding of a constitutional right to read did not survive. In May, the Michigan state legislature attempted to make the court rehear the case, which the court declined to do in June, on the grounds that a settlement had already been reached.

In so doing, however, the court vacated all pending motions in the appeal — including the finding of the constitutional right.

“Even after we won, the legislature went into court and said it was too expensive to give these kids even basic education.

I mean, my God, you know, the schools

state and that they have a higher moral and legal ground.

“I think it demonstrates that anti-racist struggles will prevail. I think these young people know that they won in terms of delivering the sorts of resources and opportunities that they’re entitled to. I think it will make a difference, but the degree to which it makes a difference, I don’t think we’re going to know until the next few years play out.”

From the beginning, Hill knew that he wasn’t doing this just for himself, but for his younger siblings and the younger generations of students that will go through Detroit Public Schools. It was never about the money for Hill; it was the hope that this case will help make the change that the children in DPS desperately need.

“We don’t want the money, and we don’t want a handout,” Hill said. “We just want an opportunity and a chance. So, it really set in that, just as hard as we’re fighting to get the education we deserve, they’re fighting 10 times harder to make sure that it doesn’t happen.

“FOR ANY OF US TO BE AWARE OF THOSE SORTS OF INJUSTICES WHILE CHILDREN IN BLOOMFIELD HILLS AND ANN ARBOR ARE ON CAMPUSES THAT COULD DOUBLE FOR COLLEGE CAMPUSES IS NOT RIGHT.” — ATTORNEY MARK ROSENBAUM would not pass basic health and safety tests,” Rosenbaum said. “If the schools were hotels or restaurants, they would be shut down.

And it is devastating to see how far those who are in charge will fight and lie to make sure that kids of color and kids from low-income families don’t have a fair shot.”

THE AFTERMATH Although the constitutional right for a basic minimum education was vacated, Rosenbaum still hopes that this case will improve the education of Detroit’s students and resonate with people throughout the country as a stepping-stone for educational growth.

“I think it’s a reinforcement that [the students’] voices and their lives matter,” Rosenbaum said. I think it demonstrates to them that they can beat back the forces of the

“A lot of times in the city, things get passed in court and are never implemented; it’s just a ruling. … So, this money, if it doesn’t go toward productive things, it can be a waste. If it doesn’t really truly impact our students and if we’re not involved in it, then it won’t make a difference for our students.”

Hill used the money that he was allotted from the lawsuit to enroll in college. He currently resides in Tallahassee, Fla., and is enrolled at Florida A&M University. He hopes to continue to fight for the right to education for students not just in Detroit, but all around the country.

“This is deeper than just education or just school,” Hill said. “It is humanity, and it is our lives. How can we be productive citizens to society without education?

“We have to stand up.”

JEWSINTHED

The Man Behind the COVID-19 Vaccine Trials Virologist credits Detroit upbringing with skills he used to expedite vaccine.

A nurse prepares to administer a COVID-19 vaccine in Truro, United Kingdom, Dec. 9, 2020.

MAYA GOLDMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

F

or almost a year now, Dr. Larry Corey has been working nonstop to design clinical trials for several different COVID-19 vaccines.

Corey — who is based in Seattle but grew up in the Detroit area — is currently serving as head of the operations center for the COVID-19 Prevention Network, a national group of researchers from academic institutions and the private sector tasked with addressing the need for vaccines against COVID-19.

He built his career researching HIV and is the principal investigator of the HIV Vaccine Dr. Larry Trials Network, an internaCorey tional effort to develop an HIV vaccine based at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.

Corey has worked closely with Dr. Anthony Fauci on HIV research for more than 20 years. (The two are so close that Corey planned to attend Dr. Fauci’s surprise Zoom birthday party right after his call with the Jewish News this weekend.)

Late last winter, Fauci called him to ask if he would help develop clinical trials to assess the new vaccines that would have to be created to control the virus.

Since then, the world-renowned virologist has Zoomed three times a week with Fauci and taken Operation Warp Speed meetings on the other days. He’s on calls from 5:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. most of the week, then answers emails until late at night.

His days are still long and busy, but he’s been able to relax a bit since the trials got up and running over the summer, he said.

“It all happened, and it happened incredibly quickly with incredible, unprecedented speed.”

Corey and his team were able to put together the infrastructure to amass 100 clinical trial sites per vaccine program, and then design each trial.

“It’s been sort of an amazing journey,” he said. “I can sort of smile at it now. I certainly wasn’t that way in April, in May, in June, when you sort of had on anxiety about … could we pull this off?”

So far, the vaccines have actually been much more successful than Corey imagined they’d be — they designed the clinical trials for 50% effectiveness, and 75% would have been great, he said. He never thought they’d get multiple vaccines to 95% effective in less than a year.

“It’s amazing, when you don’t resource-constraint science, what science can do,” he said. “Science has delivered in an unbelievable way. I hope the American

ologist, coming back to Detroit,” he said. But at the CDC, he began to work on an outbreak of influenza in children, and “I sort of got hooked on viruses,” he told JN. Corey took his family to Seattle after his time at the CDC so he could continue to work on infectious disease research. Forty years later, he and his family still love the Pacific Northwest, though Corey credits a lot of his formation as a scientist with growing up in Detroit.

“Those years I spent at Camp Tamarack as a counselor and administrator where ...

I learned actually to manage people and actually administer — a lot of that skill actually built these huge administrative

“IT HAPPENED INCREDIBLY QUICKLY WITH INCREDIBLE, UNPRECEDENTED SPEED.” — DR. LARRY COREY people understand that.”

DETROIT ROOTS Though Corey has lived in Seattle for the last four decades, he still has strong ties to his hometown of Detroit.

He grew up in Oak Park and attended Oak Park High School. The Jewish News was “the most important newspaper that came to my parents’ house,” he said. Corey met his wife at Tamarack while they were staff members and was one of the first campers in the Pioneer program, back when they slept in hammocks strung from trees.

Later, Corey attended University of Michigan for college, medical school and his medical residency.

He became interested in virology by chance, he said, when he was placed at the Centers for Disease Control during the Vietnam War draft. At the CDC, he was assigned to the viral disease division.

“At that time, I was planning to be a cardi-

programs that I have set up,” he said, referring to the AIDS clinical trials group, working on an HIV vaccine and now the COVID vaccine trials.

Though the COVID-19 Prevention Network has made incredible progress with the vaccines in such a short amount of time, there’s still lots of work to be done, Corey said. Several vaccines are still in the development and trial stage, plus there’s a global vaccine shortage that needs to be fixed, and many people in the U.S. that are suspicious of the vaccine.

To that last point, Corey says people need to make their own decisions, but that he is extremely confident in the vaccines that have been approved so far.

“If you are at risk of COVID-19, the risk benefit ratios on these vaccines are enormous,” he said. “I have no reservations; we didn’t cut any corners here. They’ve been thoroughly evaluated.”

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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HILLEL

JEWSINTHED Dr. Darin S. Katz

Hillel Head of School Reflects on

‘Rollercoaster’ First Year

DANNY SCHWARTZ STAFF WRITER

W

hen Dr. Darin S. Katz was announced as the incoming Head of School for Hillel Day School last December, nothing could have prepared him or the school for what was to come. But soon after the pandemic shut down in-person learning at schools across the country last spring, Katz, who hadn’t officially started in his new role yet, began leading the effort in planning a return to in-person school.

His plans have been successful: Hillel has continued to offer in-person learning for its nearly 400 students this school year with options for at-home instruction; 90% of students are learning in person and 10% have chosen to learn remotely.

“We began working on our reopening plan back in April,” Katz said. “Even though I was not officially the head of school, I knew I wanted to lead the effort because I was going to be leading the school through the pandemic.”

Hillel had several task forces, including one devoted to the reopening of campus and another one planning for the educational program. The groups met weekly and planned for every aspect of the reopening.

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Katz began planning the school’s fall reopening in April.

Hillel’s health and safety protocols for this school year were centered on how the school could get students and teachers safely back in the building while minimizing disruption to the school year and planning for when there would be a positive case within the school community. Early in the school year, two separate instances of positive COVID cases tested the school’s emergency lockdown procedures.

All individuals at the school ages 3 and up wear masks all day. Hillel also divided into different “communities,” or groups split up by grade. The communities enter and exit the school from different doors and stay separate in the school building to minimize any possible contact.

“If there is — God forbid — a positive case in second grade, the other communities wouldn’t be affected because students from other grades don’t really come in contact with the second grade,” Katz said.

Plexiglass was installed in the main office and around other common areas, and hand sanitizer stations are at every entrance.

Hillel also transformed some larger rooms in the school into classrooms, so students could spread out more.

According to Katz, it was “extremely important” that students not only felt safe

and comfortable being in school but also understood how important it is that they follow all health and safety protocols.

“Our students have been amazingly compliant with everything we asked them to do,” Katz said, “because they’re happy to be here. They don’t want to be home. They want to be in school with their friends and with their teachers, and they understand that for that to remain, they have to do their part.”

Katz’s mission coming into the role as head of school has transformed because of COVID, and it is expected to transform again once COVID is over.

“Prior to COVID, I said that my No. 1 goal this year was to ‘meet, ask, listen and learn,’” Katz said. “Meet as many people as possible, ask questions, listen to answers, and learn about the history and culture of Hillel Day School.”

During the pandemic, Katz said meeting people is still an important goal, but certainly much harder. “So right now, my No. 1 goal is to lead our community through this pandemic, and we are successfully navigating this as best as possible,” Katz said.

Post-COVID, Katz wants to help everyone feel comfortable returning to what “normal school” feels like, including taking down all the plexiglass, moving the classrooms back to where they were, and returning conversation to how students can be best educated in 2021.

The week following Hillel’s winter break, Jan. 4-8, Hillel will have a full week of remote instruction schoolwide to allow for students to quarantine in case their families are traveling over winter break.

“I’m asking them to be back in the Metro Detroit area by Dec. 31, and then to quarantine from that point forward and closely monitor the health of everyone in their house,” Katz said. School will reopen for in-person learning Jan. 11.

Regardless of an anything-but-ordinary first year in his new role, Katz said he feels blessed to be the head of school at Hillel during this time.

“This has been a rollercoaster of preparing for this school year, getting to know parents and students, and learning about the community while trying to lead a school through probably the biggest challenge it’s ever faced,” Katz said. “I have felt a tremendous amount of support and gratitude from our community, and that has really helped me to lead during a difficult time.”

Dayenu volunteers across the country hold up signs that together spell out a message.

Turning Up the

Heat New Jewish climate justice group “Dayenu” mobilizes Michigan voters.

ROBIN SCHWARTZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

C

oncerns about climate change and its impact on our world “loom like big clouds” over everything for Josh Bender of Ann Arbor. The Michigan State University graduate, now in his second year of rabbinical school at the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York, says he’s made environmentally focused changes in his daily life like eating less meat and avoiding single-use plastics.

But he wanted to do something to tackle the global problem on a larger scale.

“With big societal changes you can sometimes feel powJosh Bender erless to do anything about them,” Bender says. “I remember during the election, I wanted whoever the nominees were to be people who got what a serious generational issue this is.”

Josh became an intern with the group Dayenu, a new movement of American Jews confronting the climate crisis “with spiritual audacity and bold political action.”

The group was formed in April and in the months and weeks leading up to the presidential election, Josh helped facilitate volunteer events. Participants made phone calls and sent text messages to more than 270,000 Jewish climate-concerned voters in Michigan urging them to go to the polls.

“When I think how small the margins were, especially in places like Michigan, I

DAYENU FACEBOOK

know we had an impact,” he says.

The group’s nonpartisan campaign called “Chutzpah 2020” targeted Jewish voters in Michigan and five other key states: Arizona, Florida, Minnesota, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. The idea was to pilot an innovative get-out-the-vote effort centered on faith.

“Studies show 80% of American Jews are concerned about climate change, but most don’t really know what to do about it,” says Rabbi Jennie Rosenn, Founder and CEO of Dayenu. “Religious voices play an important role in shaping our national narratives and solutions, ensuring the centrality of human dignity, social justice and the public good.”

Rosenn, whose mother, Sally Teitelbaum, grew up in Detroit, attended Mumford High School and was a longtime member of Congregation Rabbi Jennie Shaarey Zedek, has spent more Rosenn than two decades leading Jewish nonprofit organizations advocating for social change.

“Climate change affects everyone but not everyone equally. It disproportionally impacts communities that have been historically marginalized,” she said. “I started Dayenu because with the climate crisis bearing down, we need all hands on deck, and the Jewish community is not yet show-

ing up with all its people and power. What is at stake is the very concept of living l’dor v’dor [from generation to generation].”

Moving forward, Rosenn and Dayenu’s supporters would like to see our leaders prioritize environmental justice and move the country toward 100% clean energy by 2030 and net zero emissions well before 2050.

“President-elect Joe Biden will be inaugurated on Jan. 20, in the midst of a global pandemic, a deepening economic recession, accelerating climate change, and with a mandate to address racial injustice,” Dayenu said in an emailed statement. “These converging crises demand urgent action on Day One of his term, and a team with the chutzpah to do what science and justice demand.”

The statement applauded the climate team Biden has assembled so far.

For Bender, who has now completed his internship, working with Dayenu was especially fulfilling here in his home state, surrounded by the largest supply of freshwater on Earth.

“There are a lot of big and small ways climate change affects Michigan,” he says.

“I’ve never worked in any political capacity before, and it was meaningful to feel like I had more of a stake and the chance to make an impact.”

For more information, visit: dayenu.org.

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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Pasteur students on a 2015 field trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts provided by the Friends of Pasteur. Pasteur principal Sharon Lawson is at the right in the last row with the late songwriter/artist Allee Willis in front of her.

JEWSINTHED

Alumni Step

UP

The Friends of Pasteur School help needy families during the pandemic.

SHARI S. COHEN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

T

TOP: Howard Davis, Pasteur Friends board member and co-chair of the Christmas Committee, helps organize gifts.

BOTTOM: Pasteur Friends’ Generational Connections: Marcy Feldman (left) attended Pasteur with Lillian Baxter (deceased), whose sister Terena Moore, contributes to Friends of Pasteur. Feldman is pictured with Arlina, Moore’s daughter, a former Pasteur student who attended the school's first reunion in 1997, and her son Jonathan, who Feldman has tutored at Pasteur.

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he gymnasium at Pasteur School in northwest Detroit was now a Christmas gift distribution center. The long tables normally used for lunch were stacked with boxes of toys, games and books for students, as well as household gifts for their parents.

Volunteers from the nonprofit Friends of Pasteur School Detroit (previously the Pasteur Elementary School Alumni Association) as well as school staff, some nervous about being in a public setting during the pandemic, helped sort and organize so that everything would be ready when parents arrived for their gifts on Dec. 16.

But this year’s holiday distribution took on new urgency and scope — changing like many other aspects of life because of the pandemic. The Pasteur Alumni Association was established in 1997 to provide volunteer tutors, aca-

demic enrichment programs, books, and scholarships for Pasteur students. About 20 years ago, that assistance expanded to helping 15 needy families, identified annually by school staff, with food and presents for Christmas.

According to Marcy Feldman of Huntington Woods, founding president of the Pasteur Friends, that group of families had grown to 60 by last year.

COVID-19 has been very detrimental to Pasteur families, many of whom were already below the poverty line. After the school building closed due to COVID, Pasteur counselor Tammie Comeaux was making wellness calls to check on families. She found that many families were experiencing severe financial distress — some due to job loss and illness. “The community seems to be changing. There are fewer homeowners in the

area. Several families had to leave due to eviction. One woman is living in her car and paying a family to care for her daughter. It weighs on you,” says Comeaux.

She contacted the Pasteur Friends and they immediately offered help and began raising additional funds. Since March, the Friends have provided $52,000 in assistance to 140 families, Feldman says.

Wendy Wagenheim of Birmingham, chair of the Pasteur Friends, says that they delivered 203 Visa gift cards for $250 each; these cards can be used to pay bills as well as purchase food and other necessities. Some families in particularly dire straits received more than one gift card over time, and all families received children’s books and art projects.

Wagenheim, Ann and Barry Waldman, and Elizabeth Jacobs distributed the gifts in several Detroit

LEFT: Board members Deborah Terrell and Elizabeth Jacobs get ready for gift distribution. RIGHT: Volunteers Marcy Feldman, Lean Crumm and Celia Savonen help with gifts.

BOTTOM: Five of the volunteers from Friends of Pasteur helping organize Christmas gifts: Marcy Feldman, Howard Davis, Deborah Terrell, Celia Savonen and Wendy Wagenheim.

neighborhoods, some very grim, because Pasteur students live all over Detroit. (The school is considered a good one and parents can choose a school outside their area.) Because of COVID, they met to sort out gift items, and then each drove alone to deliver them, calling the families the day before to alert them.

“People were so appreciative.

These are the kids we’ve gotten to know over the years,” says Wagenheim.

Some families had particularly tragic circumstances. One mother was living with seven children in a relative’s house. There were eight homeless families — some living in shelters. A few months ago, a Pasteur student died of complications of asthma. A balloon release was held in her memory outside the school.

Wagenheim attended, giving the mother $500 from the Pasteur Friends for funeral expenses.

“People have been extremely generous,” says Feldman. They received donations from people who had just learned about

the Pasteur Friends as well as longtime supporters, some multi-generational. Some of this year’s Christmas gifts were donated by Howard Goldman, owner of H and H Wholesale, a local distributor to drug stores. Elizabeth Jacobs and Howard Davis chair the Friends’ Christmas Committee.

Rebecca Blumenstein, who attended kindergarten at Pasteur, is a supporter of Pasteur Friends and helped secure a donation from a New York charitable fund. She is deputy managing editor of the New York Times.

The Pasteur Friends expect to spend $28,000 for Christmas gifts for Pasteur’s 260 families.

Each family will receive a $75 gift card as well as toys and household items. A smaller group of especially needy families will receive additional help including food boxes from Project Healthy Community.

This nonprofit provides healthy food and health-related educational programs in partnership

with Hartford Memorial Baptist Church in Detroit. The organization was started by Rabbi Joshua Bennett and Dr. Melvyn Rubenfire and his late wife, Diane.

After Christmas, the Friends want to bolster student participation in online pandemic learning. “Kids can’t stay online all day. They are dropping through the cracks. There is no joy in being by yourself all day in front of the computer,” Wagenheim says.

School staff members have asked them to develop an incentive program, perhaps offering gift certificates for meals or other presents to encourage students to “come and stay online every day. I’m not aware of any other schools doing this,” she adds.

“We care about our families and we’re doing our best … It’s a blessing what Pasteur is doing,” says Comeaux.

For more information, visit friendsofpasteur.org.

Today there are 1,500 alumni on the Friends of Pasteur mailing list and 175 supporters from all over the U.S., Canada and Israel. Most are Pasteur alumni, relatives or friends of alumni, and many are Jewish. Pasteur’s catchment area encompasses the Green Acres and Sherwood Forest neighborhoods east of Livernois, as well as the area around the school, located on Stoepel, a block west of Livernois.

The group evolved after a Mumford High School reunion led to a social get together of Jewish and African American women alumni who wanted to “catch up” after many years.

Prior to the pandemic, Feldman says that about 40 volunteers served at Pasteur — some as regular tutors or assistants in the afterschool art club funded by the Friends, and others who speak at Career and Earth Day events. Many are alumni but others are residents of the Pasteur neighborhood. Some are tutoring virtually.

An annual special activity takes sixth-grade students to see live performances of Anne Frank, produced by the Jewish Ensemble Theater. Students also receive books, as well as tablets and scholarships for selected students graduating from sixth grade.

Sharon Lawson, now retired, who was Pasteur’s principal for 15 years, says that the volunteers “opened up the school. It was such a joy having them around.” She said that it was valuable for the students to have the new experiences that they provided. Lawson serves on the board of Pasteur Friends.

Wagenheim points out that the organization is volunteer-run and operated. Their only administrative costs are to maintain their website and PayPal account. “All of the money donated goes to benefit the children,” she says.

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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A Bar Mitzvah Like No Other

Rachel, Zevi, Akiva and Elisheva Beneson at Zevi’s drive-by party.

PHOTO BY BINYAMIN WEITZ

JEWSINTHED

A very socially distant bar mitzvah celebration.

SHELLI LIEBMAN DORFMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

T

his summer, after a literal lifetime of anticipation and a year of near-continual planning, my husband, Michael, and I shared in the excitement and pride as our grandson Zevi became a bar mitzvah.

Only downside was, due to COVID-19 travel and health concerns, the small group that surrounded him that day did not include us.

Like many, our family has been though the gamut of frustration, anxiety and personal sadness during the pandemic. The bar mitzvah was supposed to be the bright star in an erratic, arduous and baffling time.

Though Zevi and his family — including our daughter and son-in-law Stephanie and Avi Beneson and Zevi’s siblings Rachel, 11, Akiva, 9, and Elisheva, 5 — live more than 600 miles away in New Jersey, we were there the day each of the children was born.

We never imagined being home in West Bloomfield when Zevi was called to the Torah in, of all places, a grassy area between a swing set and a vegetable garden in our kids’ neighbor’s backyard in the Garden State.

In March, with the onset of lockdowns and prohibitions, nearly every single supposedly set-in-stone entry that had been checked off the extensive bar mitzvah list was in need of a major overhaul.

The only thing that would remain just as planned was the date. Zevi would become a bar mitzvah on his Hebrew birthday and would read the Torah portion he had been learning since last summer.

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As our kids worked with persistently changing guidelines, our plans also fluctuated. Assessing it would be unsafe to fly since masks were not yet mandatory on planes, we would instead travel by car, making an overnight stop along the Zevi with his dad, Avi, the way.

Thursday before his Shabbat bar mitzvah service.

At that point, we canceled the postbar-mitzvah-week trip to the Jersey Shore with our children and grandchilThe four-generation gathering — includdren, initially envisioned as a continuation of ing Zevi’s other grandparents, Dr. David and the celebration.

Marci Beneson of Southfield, and dozens of Even as Zevi’s synagogue service and kidothers from the Detroit area — assembled dush for 300-400 guests became a plan for for the traditional bar mitzvah party agenda: an outdoor minyan, and the catered meals pandemic-style. turned into decorative, individually wrapped In a grid-pattern of faces, participants packages, we still thought we’d be there. shared the screen to view a short music video, Mall and specialty store shopping became listen to Zevi’s inspirational d’var Torah and online suit, dress and shoe purchases, each celebrate with speeches and toasts. accompanied by a specially ordered coordiThat week, I checked the gas and oil in my nating mask. car in anticipation of our trip, which was to be the first time we would see our kids since SO MANY CELEBRATIONS Thanksgiving! And we were also tested for

By June, the guest list and search for the perCOVID antibodies, thinking a possible expofect invitation turned to email addresses and sure might have given us a way to feel more a Zoom link for online festivities to take place comfortable about traveling, and were disapthe Sunday before the Shabbat service. pointed with negative results.

That afternoon, we logged on with more Two days after “Zevi’s Zoom” was his than 100 friends and family from three coun- Hebrew birthday, the official date on which he tries and seven American states, including became a bar mitzvah. That morning, he was those who disappointingly canceled travel called to the Torah for his first-ever aliyah, in plans, but with the perk of the presence of a congregation of classmates in his teacher’s some who all along knew they would have backyard. been unable to be there.

The afternoon was highlighted by a drive-

Stephanie and Avi Beneson with children, Akiva, Zevi, Rachel and Elisheva.

UNEXPECTEDLY TOGETHER Zevi’s Zoom As Shabbat got closer, Zevi was stoic and understanding of the necessary changes where the next day’s service and kiddush and omissions in his celebration, and truly would be held. Later they shared Shabbat dinexcited to be commemorating this milestone ner in our daughter and son-in-law’s home, with friends. But there was still a sadness after which the Michigan guests socially disin knowing that none of the family — all of tanced themselves to basement bedrooms. whom live in other cities — would be able to Early Saturday morning, under a series of travel. tent-like blue canopies, face-masked, local So, when our other daughter and her friends — along with Aunt Kim and cousins, four children arrived in a squealing surprise 16-year-old Shira, 14-year-old Ari, 11-yearThursday night, following a 10-hour, pracold Jake and 8-year-old Eitan from Michigan tically nonstop drive from West Bloomfield, — came to hear Zevi as he read the entire the weekend had new life and was off to a weekly Torah portion. giggling, family-filled, staggeringly loud bang.

In a modification of traditional aliyahs, Watching the iPhone-recorded reunion, those called upon accepted the honor from a knowing how much fun they were having distance, with only Zevi touching the Torah, together and what it meant to our New Jersey on loan from a nearby synagogue. kids gave us incredible solace.

The small congregation scattered throughFriday they all joined for self-described out two adjoining yards behind the homes of hysterical laughter and family photos, taken our children’s gracious neighbors. in a secluded section of a massive, forest-like The peaceful summer morning’s park, with proofs immediately air-dropped to unstreamed Orthodox service was highlightus. The two families then decorated the yards ed by the conflicting ambience of a young

man’s Torah reading and the sounds of a light rain, a lawn mower, a helicopter and a car alarm.

During the lay-led service, perched on a chair to allow for a better view, Zevi’s mom looked at her sister, laughed and said, “Yep, this is what I pictured today would be like 13 years ago.”

Following the Torah reading, Zevi fielded the tossed, small, decorative tulle bags I stuffed with soft candy and placed in Kim’s trunk for the occasion, as my small, personal inclusion in the day. A post-service celebration then took place in a shaded area of our children’s yard, in shifts, based on varied invitation times, with guests enjoying individually plated foods, each packaged with their own mini plasticware.

Just like the days following a traditional bar mitzvah celebration, ours are filled with memories, stories, videos, photos and sweet party favors.

They bring way more tears of happiness than those of sadness and feelings of what we missed.

Being embraced in the planning and its various revisions kept us engaged in the treasured time throughout the recent, sometimes anxious months.

Along the way, nothing was “normal.” The unexpected was expected, but the traditional elements ensued in ways that were modified for the times and created unequivocally for Zevi. His party may have been on the sidewalk and street in front of his house and his out-of-town family may have cheered him on from tiny computer squares. His blue suit and complementing textured tie may have come in the mail and his bar mitzvah haircut may have taken place in his backyard. But, for this insightful, sensitive, NASCAR-, football- and baseball-obsessed, LEGO- and drawing-enthusiast, it will all go down in the books as the unforgettable, bright star we wished for.

We may not have celebrated with Zevi in person, but that doesn’t lessen the excitement and pride we felt for him. And instead of focusing on the fact that we were not with him, we like to think maybe we were just the most distant of his socially distanced bar mitzvah guests and that somewhere between the virtual and the vicarious, and in our hearts, we actually were.

PHOTO BY ESTYBPHOTOGRAPHY

by horn-honking, mazel-tov chanting, balloon-filled celebration with music, individual-family dancing and party favors for New Jersey friends who arrived in front of Zevi’s home in timeslots dictated alphabetically.

On Wednesday, when my temporarily “lost in transit” fancy, lace face mask was delivered, I was relieved it had arrived in time to be packed with its matching outfit.

But stories of rest stops and hotels in states along the way without enforced mask and social distancing guidelines mounted our concerns. We hadn’t even been inside a store or within 6 feet of our Michigan children or my nearby parents in almost four months.

How could we take a chance on travel, being with strangers and possible crowds?

So, Thursday evening, we were still at home when we received a video of Zevi taken that morning at one of the many daily pop-up minyans that appeared in our kids’ neighborhood when small outdoor gatherings became permissible. We listened and watched as he read Torah for the first time, dressed in his COVID uniform of sweats, a T-shirt and blue Crocs but with the addition of his set of brandnew leather tefillin.

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ERETZ

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

Abraham Ambassadors

a peace process,” Fischer, 74, who arrived in Morocco in January of this year, said in an interview. “We weren’t anticipating COVID either. This is where the skills you’ve learned from a lifetime in business and how to respond to surprises come in handy.” Fischer owns the Suburban Collection of automotive dealerships, located mainly in Southeast Michigan.

In early March, a delegation of about 40 touring congregants and clergy from Temple Israel of West Bloomfield found themselves nearly stranded in Morocco as worries over COVID mounted.

Ambassador Fischer, who is not Jewish, and the embassy staff were able to facilitate their return home just as air travel was shutting down.

Two local businessmen, serving as diplomats in Arab nations, play role in Middle East peace accords.

DORON LEVIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER U.S. Ambassador to UAE John Rakolta Jr.

U.S. Ambassador to Morocco David Fischer and his wife, Jennifer

PHOTOS COURTESY STATE DEPT.

I

n the spring of 2018, David Fischer and John Rakolta Jr. were presidential nominees, awaiting Congressional approval before assuming their posts as U.S. ambassadors, respectively, to Morocco and the United Arab Emirates.

Neither of the two financial backers of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, both of whom are Oakland County businessmen and longtime GOP partisans, could foresee how relatively short their diplomatic postings would be — due to the many months of partisan bickering that delayed their confirmation by the Senate, capped by Trump’s electoral defeat.

But what their tenures lacked in duration, they made up for in significance.

Neither ambassador had reason to anticipate the remarkable events that would unfold on their watch: the diplomatic breakthrough and astonishing, unexpected official warming of relations between Israel and some Arab nations, brokered by the U.S. Both ambassadors served as go-betweens in the delicate negotiations leading to the diplomatic breakthrough.

Under the auspices of President Trump, the Abraham Accords in September normalized relations between Israel and the UAE and Bahrain; they were followed shortly by Sudan’s recognition of Israel.

The Kingdom of Morocco agreed two months later to

open diplomatic relations with the Jewish state toward establishing full recognition.

Some experts predict that Saudi Arabia may be next.

“From Morocco’s historical tradition of protecting its Jewish minority,” Fischer said on Dec. 14, “the signing of the Marrakech Declaration to yesterday’s agreement —

[King Mohamed VI] sets an example to the region and the world.” Simultaneously, Trump signed a proclamation recognizing Morocco’s claim over Western Sahara, where dissidents have campaigned to break away from the kingdom.

“We didn’t come here expecting to participate in

‘STIMULATING ASSIGNMENT’ John Rakolta Jr., 73, attended Brother Rice High School in Birmingham and graduated from Marquette University in Milwaukee.

Until his nomination, he served as CEO of Walbridge, a construction company started by his father and based in Detroit.

As a young man struck

by Israel’s lightning victory in the Six-Day War, Rakolta wondered why Middle East peace between Israel and its Arab neighbors proved elusive. Later on, as he learned more about festering grievances, it appeared unreasonable to him that “the Palestinians and the Israelis couldn’t just sit down and do what’s best for their

people.”

When initially asked if he was interested in an ambassadorial post, Rakolta told the Trump administration he only would consider a stimulating assignment where his service and personal involvement would make a difference. A ceremonial posting — in a country such as Switzerland or Iceland — wouldn’t qualify.

To represent the U.S. in an Arab nation or Israel, by contrast, would demand every bit of discretion, energy, charm, business experience and problemsolving talent at his command.

“I have a lot of Jewish friends and a lot of Arab friends in the Detroit area,” he said. “I’ve always tried to be in the middle — and never could understand what was preventing a comprehensive peace.”

The long delay gaining confirmation, Rakolta said, came with a “silver lining”: more than a year to prepare. He read, studied and attended more than a hundred briefings about the Middle East and related subjects given by the State Department, think tanks and others.

In June of 2019, the Trump administration announced what became known as “the Deal of the Century,” a Middle East peace initiative conceived in part by the president’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Ultimately, Kushner’s peace proposal was rejected by Palestinians and some West Bank settlers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had accepted the deal,

subsequently announced a plan to annex portions of the West Bank. Earlier, the U.S. had announced the move of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv, prompting predictions of renewed tension and possibly violence.

Clearly, Trump and the U.S. needed ingenuity to reignite diplomatic momentum.

After arriving in the UAE in September 2019

of critics that he ruled as a corrupt dictator during his 30 years in office.

The UAE became an independent nation in 1971 and thus is only slightly younger than Israel. For years, the two nations have maintained a muted, lowlevel, informal relationship.

“Israel has technology, which the Emiratis need to transform their economy away from oil,” said Rakolta.

“The UAE has lots of capital,

“WE DIDN’T COME HERE EXPECTING TO PARTICIPATE IN A PEACE PROCESS.” — DAVID FISCHER and absorbing as much as possible, Rakolta visited Washington a few months later. He reported to Trump that the Emiratis — citizens of the seven Gulf States including Abu Dhabi and Dubai — were looking to the U.S. to restore the trust they felt was broken when the administration of Barack Obama signed a nuclear agreement with Iran.

On top of disappointment and fear over the rising threat from Iran, the Emiratis hadn’t forgotten “the Arab Spring” of political unrest across the Arab world that unfolded during Obama’s term in office.

Among flare-ups in Tunisia, Yemen, Libya, Syria and elsewhere was the overthrow in 2011 of Egyptian president and longtime U.S. ally Hosni Mubarak. Regional leaders recoiled at the U.S. willingness to abandon Mubarak, despite the charge

which the Israelis need.

Already you can see Israeli produce in the markets here.

The hotels are full of Israeli tourists.”

Just as the Moroccans received U.S. support for continued sovereignty over Western Sahara, the Emiratis received something they wanted: Congressional approval for cutting-edge F-35 fighter jets — an approval that would have been more difficult if the Israelis had objected. Also this month, the U.S. removed Sudan from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, shortly after the country agreed to recognize Israel.

PALESTINIAN QUESTION One fly in the ointment — and it remains a big one — is the politically unresolved future of Palestinians living in Israel’s West Bank and Gaza.

King Salman of Saudi

Arabia — another economy transitioning away from oil dependence — has been a principal sponsor of Palestinian aspirations, while his son and crown prince, Mohammed bin-Salman, is quoted saying that Israel is entitled to exist in peace.

“I believe if you go through the U.S. and Israel you will find a lot of sympathy for the Palestinians,” said Rakolta, “There are people who are willing to sit down and negotiate a very favorable deal with the Palestinians” for statehood.

By contrast, Rakolta said, the violence and destruction that have characterized conflict resolution in failed Arab polities like Lebanon, Gaza, Yemen and Syria — “That’s what Iran has been selling,” he said.

With the Biden administration about to replace Trump’s in Washington, Fischer, the founder of the Suburban Collection of car dealerships, and Rakolta soon will return home. Their businesses have been operated in the interim by their families.

What’s next for both men?

Neither has decided. Fischer, whose friendships and appreciation for the Jewish state and its supporters date back “decades,” will fly to Israel and dedicate a forest near Jerusalem with David Friedman, U.S. ambassador to Israel.

Whatever the next chapter looks like for each ambassador, neither is likely to compare in momentousness with a hands-on, successful pursuit of Middle East peace — a chance to play a role in history — on behalf of the nation.

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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Weekly Headlines Delivered to Your Inbox. thejewishnews.com/newsletter 24

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

MILESTONES

Shapiro 50th

L

inda and Eddie Shapiro of Commerce Township celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 21, 2020. The pandemic changed the way they celebrated their milestone. They were thrilled with a wonderful surprise Zoom celebration with family and friends hosted by their children. They are the proud parents of Scotty Shapiro, Laura and David Feld, and the proud grandparents of Sasha and Jordan Feld.

Lecours-Koneczny

D

eborah and James Lecours are delighted to announce the engagement of their son Daniel Louis to Allison Koneczny, daughter of Lori Forseth and Craig Koneczny.

Danny is a psychiatry resident at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington; Allison is a research coordinator through the University of Michigan Psychology Department.

An October 2022 wedding will take place in Vermont.

HOW TO SUBMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS Mazel Tov! announcements are welcomed for members of the Jewish community. Anniversaries, engagements and weddings with a photo (preferably color) can appear at a cost of $18 each.

Births are $10. There is no charge for bar/bat mitzvahs or for special birthdays starting at the 90th.

For information, contact Editorial Assistant Sy Manello at smanello@renmedia.us or (248) 351-5147 for information or for a mailed or emailed copy of guidelines.

SPIRIT

TORAH PORTION

Speak To The Heart

I

n Vayechi, the last Torah words can really hear them, portion of the Book of instead of building a defense Genesis, the story of Joseph or shutting down. Joseph had comes to an end. to speak to his brothers in a The most remarkable part way that cut through the deep of the story is that he forgave fears they had that they would his brothers even though they be abandoned in a foreign sold him into slavery in land and left to starve or Egypt and lied to their worse. They knew how father, Jacob, telling they treated Joseph, and him that Joseph was they feared he would kill dead. them.

Upon returning Instead of seeking to Egypt after buryRabbi Alicia revenge after his father’s Harris ing their father, his death, Joseph chose brothers worried that to love and forgive his Parshat because of Jacob’s brothers. He spoke to Vayechi: death, Joseph would no them with deep kindGenesis longer deal kindly with 47:28-50:26; ness; at once, he allethem. The brothers I Kings 2:1-12. viated their fears in a bowed before Joseph, way that each of them and the Torah tells us that could hear. It’s remarkable that Joseph said, “Fear not. I will Joseph was able to exercise this sustain you and your children” forgiveness. That he was able (Genesis 50:21.) The next part to let go of any anger toward of that verse says, “Joseph his brothers that would be comforted them and spoke completely understandable to into their heart.” This phrase, hold onto, considering what vayidaber al libam, is often they did. His ability to show translated as “he spoke kindly this ultimate kindness says so to them.” But the Hebrew much about his character. means “he spoke into their After detailing the rest heart.” of Joseph’s life, this parshah This turn of phrase stands comes to a close and with it out to me, as it is not somethe Book of Genesis. At the thing that I’ve heard before; end of each book of Torah that so I went to the Talmud for a we finish, we say chazak, chazbetter understanding. Tractate ak, v’nitchazeik, be strong and Megilah 16b:7 gives the explalet us strengthen one another. nation that “Rabbi Binyamin What we learn from the end bar Yefet said that Rabbi of Joseph’s life is that there Elazar said: ‘This teaches that is strength in vulnerability, he spoke to them words that in relying on community, in are acceptable to the heart and compassion and in forgivealleviated their fears.”’ Joseph ness. spoke to his brothers compasAs we forge ahead in this sionately and with words they new year, may we take after could really hear.

Joseph and speak to the hearts This is such a good lesson of the ones we love. for us. We sometimes have to Rabbi Alicia Harris is rabbi of change the way we speak so Congregation Shir Tikvah in Troy. that the people receiving our

Our STORY Zach Berg and William Werner became friends as children at Tamarack, and remained close through childhood and adulthood, coming together over a love of what makes a great meal.

Zach spent his time in kosher catering, restaurant kitchens, learned about cheese with Bi-Rite Markets and Zingerman’s, and became a cheese authority.

Will became a geologist, but always was interested in catering and meal prep.

“Good eating is a passion for both of us, Zach said.

“Whenever we saw each other, we both seemed to have a love for cooking, catering and food in general.

We even brought a group of friends together and catered Will’s wedding. It was such a memorable event, we didn’t want that to end.”

Then, Will’s cousin Gayle asked him to come help manage her Royal Oak chocolate operation. Will and Zach created a cheese pop-up in the chocolate shop, becoming such a popular draw that they knew there was traction to the idea of cheese and chocolate.

“What we ended up doing was putting a permanent pop-up into a shop in Ferndale, founding Mongers’ Provisions in 2017, and offering specialty cheeses, craft chocolate and charcuterie,” said Zach.

In order to follow that success and launch their own Detroit location, the partners approached Hebrew Free Loan’s Marvin I. Danto Small Business Loan Program, and now they also have a dedicated shop in Midtown Detroit.

“Food never tastes better than when you share it with people,” Zach said. “Hebrew Free Loan helped us bring more of it to a wider audience, and we will forever be grateful. We got here because we refined our plans, expanded our knowledge, and went for what we really wanted. I never get tired of being here, and I get to do this great thing with my friend.”

Click. Call. Give Now.

www.hfldetroit.org • 248.723.8184

Community donations help Hebrew Free Loan give interest-free loans to local Jews for a variety of personal, health, educational and small business needs.

6735 Telegraph Road, Suite 300 • Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48301 Hebrew Free Loan Detroit

@HFLDetroit

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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY A JEWISH NEWS SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ATTORNEYS

THAV RYKE & ASSOCIATES 24725 W. 12 Mile Road, Suite 110 Southfield, MI 48034 www.michprobate.com Jryke@michprobate.com (248) 945-1111 Fax: (248) 945-4844 We are here to assist you in all areas of wills and trusts estate planning and probate law in the state of Michigan.

Our lawyers are experienced in meeting our clients’ needs, whether in drafting wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, comprehensive estate plans and the legal process of transferring property upon a person’s death otherwise known as “probate.” It is important to note that not all probate attorneys handle contested proceedings.

AUTO TAMAROFF 28585 Telegraph Road Southfield, MI 48034 (248) 353-1300 www.tamaroff.com Tamaroff Motors has been proudly serving all your automotive needs since 1969: Factory-authorized Honda and Nissan dealer for new/ used car sales, service, finance/lease, parts and collision shop. No. 1 new and certified pre-owned Honda dealer in Michigan. Free oil change, car wash, loaners and up to $500 deductible reimbursements on any new or used vehicle purchased.

You’re better off at Tamaroff.

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COUNTRY CLUBS

WABEEK CLUB 4000 Clubgate Drive Bloomfield Township, MI 48302 (248) 855-0700 www.wabeekcc.com Wabeek Club provides an elevated club experience you cannot get anywhere as else the most innovative club in the area. Now open year-round, including all new amenities and a completely renovated clubhouse.

EDUCATION

FARBER HEBREW DAY SCHOOL 21100 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48076 (248) 386-1625 www.farberhds.org Farber Hebrew Day School – Yeshivat Akiva is the only Modern Orthodox Zionist day school serving the Metropolitan Detroit area.

From the Early Childhood Center through the High School, Farber provides students with a comprehensive college preparatory education permeated with Jewish values. Farber students are imbued with a solid Jewish identity, intense commitment to the Torah way of life, a love of learning and devotion to the State of Israel.

FRANKEL JEWISH ACADEMY 6600 W. Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 592-5263 www.frankelja.org Frankel Jewish Academy is a rigorous college preparatory high school pursuing academic excellence and Jewish literacy. We inspire students to think critically creatively and compassionately; to dedicate themselves to Jewish tradition peoplehood and the State of Israel; and to become lifelong learners and leaders.

HEBREW DAY SCHOOL OF ANN ARBOR 2937 Birch Hollow Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (734) 971-4633 hdsaa.org Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor (HDS) is a Jewish, private, pluralistic elementary school that provides excellent education in general studies, Judaic studies, and Hebrew language from young fives through fifth grade. Through individualized instruction, advantageous teacher-to-student ratios and attentive support systems, the school is committed to instilling in its students a love of learning.

HDS equips students with the tools they need to be proud, generative participants in Jewish life, and it enables students and their families to experience the sense of joy, warmth and belonging that comes with true community. HDS families come from a wide variety of religious backgrounds, and our students learn to expect and embrace diversity. Our graduates are academically skilled, confident in their talents, grounded in their identities and poised to contribute to the world.

HILLEL DAY SCHOOL 32200 Middlebelt Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 851-3220 www.hillelday.org Hillel Day School of Metropolitan Detroit delivers an outstanding general and Jewish education to Jewish children from preschool through eighth grade. We inspire a passion for learning, responsibility to self and community, and devotion to Jewish living in a warm innovative and engaging environment. At Hillel, students develop the creativity learn to think critically in two languages, collaborate effectively and communicate successfully — essential skills they need to succeed in high school and the world they will inherit. Our newly renovated Early Childhood Center nurtures children ages 18 mos.-5 years as they play, think, question and learn. Whether on campus or in a remote or flexible learning environment due to the coronavirus pandemic, every day our dedicated teachers inspire a passion for learning in our students and instill in them the perseverance necessary to learn deeply and to navigate challenges through a Jewish lens, guiding students toward living a meaningful and purposeful Jewish life. To learn more about joining the Hillel family, contact Amy Schlussel, director of advancement: (248) 539-1484 or aschlussel@ hillelday.org.

YESHIVA BETH YEHUDAH P.O. Box 2044 Southfield, MI 48037 (248) 557-6750 info@yby.org Yeshiva Beth Yehudah is the largest Jewish school system in Michigan, providing quality Torah-based and secular educational programs.

More than 1,100 students in pre-nursery though grade 12 receive an excellent foundation to become future leaders of our community.

ENTERTAINMENT SIMONE VITALE BAND 505 S. Lafayette Royal Oak, MI 48067 (248) 765-7336 info@simonevitale.com www.simonevitale.com Simone Vitale Band is your assurance of a great evening … Personal attention … We become part of the family …

The variety of music is extensive … High energy … Every song is a performance to rival the original.

FINANCIAL

CAPITAL MORTGAGE FUNDING 17170 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48076 1-800-LOW-RATE www.CapitalMortgageFunding.com Co-founded by Harry Glanz and Dan Burke, servicing the client is the golden rule at Capital Mortgage Funding. We are a full-service mortgage banker who processes, underwrites and funds all transactions.

Conventional FHA/VA Jumbo financing available. Capital Mortgage Funding is powered by Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS #2289. Equal Housing Lender.

HEBREW FREE LOAN ASSOCIATION 6735 Telegraph Road, Suite 300 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 (248) 723-8184 www.hfldetroit.org HFL provides interest-free loans to Michigan’s Jewish individuals, families and businesses to support education, job training, summer camp, home improvements and so much more. Visit www. hfldetroit.org or www.jewishcollegeloansmi.org.

OXFORD HARRIMAN & CO Albert Berger CFP (248) 731-7596 Michael Finkelstein CFA (248) 385-5933 2550 S. Telegraph Road, Suite 114 Bloomfield Hills MI 48302 Albert Berger CFP® – Partner (248) 731-7596 • albert@ oxfordharriman.com www.oxfordharriman.com Detroit Office 1301 W. Long Lake Road, Suite 105 Troy MI 48098 Fax: (216) 245-6322

FUNERAL HOMES/ CHAPELS THE DORFMAN CHAPEL 30440 W. 12 Mile Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 406-6000 www.thedorfmanchapel.com thedorfmanchapel@aol.com Trusted professionals serving the Jewish community with dignity, sanctity and compassion. Committed to providing the complete, personal service that families deserve and expect in a state-of-theart facility, conveniently located in Farmington Hills.

HEBREW MEMORIAL CHAPEL 26640 Greenfield Road Oak Park, MI 48237 (248) 543-1622 (800) 736-5033 www.hebrewmemorial.org Entering our second century as your community-owned funeral chapel. We are here for you 24 hours a day. Anyone can acknowledge that your loved one died. We understand that your loved one lived.

IRA KAUFMAN CHAPEL 18325 W. Nine Mile Road Southfield, MI 48075 (248) 559-0020 www.irakaufman.com Bringing together family, faith and community, the Ira Kaufman Chapel blends tradition and progress. When you call us, you’ll talk to a member of our staff — not an answering service. We stream funerals online for loved ones unable to attend even from graveside.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

DE VINNEY CZARNECKI PHYSICAL THERAPY Maple Park Office Complex 6020 W. Maple, Suite 500 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 851-6999 www.dcptonline.com Private treatment rooms, a large, well-equipped gym and a highly experienced staff make our therapist-owned clinic the first choice for effective, compassionate physical therapy for the families in this community since 1995.

Open Arms Private Home Health Care openarmshhc@gmail.com (248)747-3664

Committed to providing the highest quality of care and assistance for you and your loved ones

Personal, Individualized Care 24/7 Home Care Available Highly Qualified Caregivers

We want to help you get back to doing the things you love.

A trusted name in the community for over 25 years.

Maple Park Office Complex 6020 West Maple Suite 500, West Bloomfield MI 48322

248 851-6999

www.dcptonline.com

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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY MONICA K. GOODWIN, L.L.M.S.W. Adult & Adolescent Psychotherapist 5777 W. Maple Road, Suite 175 West Bloomfield, MI. 48322 MKGoodwin24@gmail.com (248) 932-4325 As a licensed MSW specializing in clinical psychotherapy, I am dedicated to meeting the emotional and psychological needs of individuals and couples facing challenges in their day-to-day lives. In the privacy of my private practice, we will work together to find a path to a more positive future.

D’ANNE M. KLEINSMITH, M.D. Board Certified Dermatologist Midwest Center for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery 31275 Northwestern HighwaySuite 140 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 538-0109 www.drkleinsmithdermatolgy. com www.mwdermatology.com/ location-farmington-hills-center Welcome to my new office in Farmington Hills! I am proud to now be affiliated with Midwest Center for Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. As you may already know, my practice includes general dermatology and dermatologic surgery. I have a special interest in cosmetic treatments like Botox®, Juvederm® and Restylane®.

My affiliations include the Michigan Dermatological Society and American Academy of Dermatology. I’ve been named a “Top Doc” for many years. Looking forward to seeing you soon!

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NEMETH & KATRANJI PERIODONTICS 29829 Telegraph Road, Suite 111 Southfield, MI 48034 (248) 357-3100 www.drnemeth.com info@drnemeth.com Dr. Nemeth’s and Dr. Katranji’s procedures include the pinhole gum rejuvenation technique for gum recession, minimally invasive laser treatment for gum disease, gum reshaping procedures for smile makeovers and dental implants for missing teeth.

JEWISH ORGANIZATIONS

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF MAGEN DAVID ADOM Wendy Strip, Development Executive, Greater Detroit Area (248) 522-0420 wstrip@afmda.org afmda.org Magen David Adom is Israel’s ambulance disaster-relief and blood-services agency, serving as emergency medical first responders for 9.2 million people. It’s not a government agency so it depends on Americans like you for funding.

DOROTHY AND PETER BROWN JEWISH COMMUNITY ADULT DAY PROGRAM A joint operation between JVS Human Services and Jewish Senior Life 29699 Southfield Road Southfield, MI 48076 (248) 233-4000 6720 W. Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 661-6390 www.jvshumanservices.org/brown www.jslmi.org/the-dorothy-peterbrown-jewish-community-dayprogram The Brown Adult Day Program, operated in partnership between Jewish Senior Life and JVS Human Services, supports people living with dementia and their family care partners. Our day program is designed to actively engage participants through stimulating programming and socialization while providing much needed respite for care partners. During the pandemic, we have moved to a virtual program while maintaining the goal and integrity of the Brown Program.

JARC 6735 Telegraph Road, Suite 100 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 (248) 940-2617 • jarc@jarc.org www.jarc.org JARC is a nonprofit, non-sectarian organization founded in 1969 by a group of parents concerned about the future of their children with developmental disabilities.

Today, JARC is known as a prototype for innovative high-quality residential and support programs for people with developmental disabilities. JARC serves more than 150 people in 80 different settings in Oakland County, including group homes, independent living and in-home respite care.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF METROPOLITAN DETROIT 6735 Telegraph Road P.O. Box 2030 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303 (248) 642-4260 www.jewishdetroit.org The Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit is the central communal organization of the Detroit Jewish community. Federation is committed to taking care of the needs of the Jewish people and building a vibrant Jewish future in Metropolitan Detroit, in Israel and around the world.

JHELP c/o The Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit 6735 Telegraph Road P.O. Box 2030 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303 (833) 445-4357 www.jhelp.org For those needing support, JHELP offers a simple connection point to our community’s Jewish social service agencies. With one call or visit to our site, community members will be guided to whatever assistance is necessary.

JHELP serves older adults, families, teens and children, individuals with special needs, job seekers and others.

JVS HUMAN SERVICES 29699 Southfield Road Southfield, MI 48076 (248) 559-5000 www.jvshumanservices.org JVS Human Services helps people discover and unlock their personal potential through counseling, training and supportive services for individuals with disabilities, job seekers, seniors and others in need.

KADIMA 15999 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48067 (248) 559-8235 Kadimacenter.org Kadima provides comprehensive residential, therapeutic and social services to all people with mental health needs as they move forward in their lives. Inspired by Jewish values, Kadima delivers these services while providing education and outreach to the broader community to ensure positive mental health outcomes for all.

MICHIGAN JEWISH SPORTS FOUNDATION 6632 Telegraph Road, Suite 304 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 (248) 592-9323 scicurel@michiganjewishsports.org www.michiganjewishsports.org The MJSF’s mission is to honor Jewish individuals who have demonstrated achievement in sports and to foster Jewish identity through athletics as well as to raise funds for charitable contributions to benefit health, education and the less privileged.

YAD EZRA 2850 W. 11 Mile Road Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 548-3663 info@yadezra.org www.yadezra.org Yad Ezra, Michigan’s only kosher food pantry, is an independent organization that provides free groceries and household items to low-income families in Southeast Michigan.

REAL ESTATE COOPER GLASS HOMES Dana Cooper & Laurie Glass Max Broock Realtors 275 S. Old Woodward Birmingham, MI 48009 (248) 658-8030 www.cooperglasshomes.com With more than $150 million in sales, Dana Cooper and Laurie Glass work passionately to protect your interests to get you the best results. “We love the long-term relationships that we develop and believe in providing superior concierge service — every client every time.”

Physically Distant but Jewishly Connected

RESTAURANTS STAR DELI 24555 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield MI 48034 Stardeli.net A Metro Detroit staple for more than 40 years, this carry-out deli, open 365 days, is known for its corned beef and tuna salad, to name a few. Order one of Star’s crowd-pleasing catering trays today.

SENIOR LIVING

JEWISH SENIOR LIFE OF METRO DETROIT Residences-Programs-Services Administrative Offices: A. Alfred Taubman Jewish Community Campus 15000 W. 10 Mile Road Oak Park, MI 48237 Foundation Office Eugene & Marcia Applebaum Jewish Community Campus 6710 W. Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 661-1836 TTY #711 www.jslmi.org We nurture a sense of community and enrich the lives of older adults while embracing Jewish values and celebrating life. People of all faiths and beliefs are welcome.

OPEN ARMS HOME CARE (248) 747-3664 openarmshhc@gmail.com We provide personal, individualized care specifically designed to meet our patient’s needs. Our experienced caregivers are available hourly, weekly or 24/7. We accept most insurance. Fully Licensed, Bonded and Insured.

SYNAGOGUES/TEMPLES ADAT SHALOM SYNAGOGUE 29901 Middlebelt Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 851-5100 www.adatshalom.org Rabbis: Aaron Bergman, Rachel Shere, Herbert Yoskowitz, Emeritus; Hazzan Daniel Gross. Adat Shalom is a vibrant Conservative congregation with an outstanding religious school and diverse innovative programs for families and children of all ages.

Creative caring and energetic clergy staff and lay leaders work together to design educational, spiritual, social and social action programs that engage and serve the needs of a diverse membership.

AdatShalom@home virtual services: Sunday through Friday 8 a.m.; Shabbat 9 a.m.; evening services daily — times vary throughout the year. Consult our schedule at adatshalom. org/calendar for service times and the most up-to-date changes.

The Board of Directors, Volunteers and Staff of

Yad Ezra thank our Jewish community for its generous support in helping us alleviate hunger for the past 30 years.

Your help makes a tremendous difference in the lives of those most vulnerable.

Congregation Beth Ahm

248-851-6880

Best wishes for a healthy, happy and peaceful new year!

www.cbahm.org DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 5085 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 (248) 432-2729 Fax: (248) 479-2572 info@bnaiisraelwb.org www.bnaiisraelwb.org Rabbi Mitch Parker. B’nai Israel Synagogue is an egalitarian, lay-led Conservative congregation operating within the Temple Kol Ami building.

We provide religious, educational and social opportunities that reflect our commitment to Judaism, our members of all ages and our community.

CONGREGATION BETH AHM 5075 W. Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 851-6880 www.cbahm.org Congregation Beth Ahm was established to provide opportunities to explore and practice Judaism in a warm and approachable environment.

We believe in the value of promoting an inviting, caring and welcoming environment where we demonstrate compassion toward others through derech eretz, tzedakah and tikkun olam.

CONGREGATION SHAAREY ZEDEK 27375 Bell Road Southfield, MI 48034-2079 (248) 357-5544 csz.info@shaareyzedek.org www.shaareyzedek.org Congregation Shaarey Zedek is a warm, welcoming, inclusive and egalitarian Conservative Jewish community. We provide innovative, stimulating and diverse spiritual and educational leadership and social opportunities that nurture our love and commitment to Jewish life.

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CONGREGATION SHIR TIKVAH 3900 Northfield Parkway Troy, MI 48084 (248) 649-4418 www.shirtikvah.org info@shirtikvah.org Congregation Shir Tikvah is an innovative yet traditional, friendly and inclusive congregation valuing diversity, where all can seek God and strengthen spiritual, social, educational and cultural aspects of Jewish life. We are affiliated with both the Reform and Renewal movements.

As a bridge between our membership community and the State of Israel, Shir Tikvah embraces our heritage, provides continuity and encourages the evolution of Judaism into the future. We offer Friday-evening Shabbat services (times vary) and some Saturdays at 10 a.m. Our outstanding Sam and Jean Frankel Family Education Program provides a pre-K-12th-grade religious school as well as a variety of enrichment opportunities for adults. Rabbi Alicia Harris.

TEMPLE ISRAEL 5725 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 Temple Israel Offices: (248) 661-5700 Fax: (248) 661-1302 Tyner Religious School: (248) 661-5725 Early Childhood Center: (248) 661-5750 info@temple-israel.org Temple Israel is an inclusive Reform congregation achieving its religious and ethical mission through spiritual fulfillment, dynamic programming, lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and social responsibility. A remarkable clergy team leads our congregation with a meaningful face-to-faith approach, welcoming people of all ages and stages. The Audrey & William Farber Endowment Fund supports the Susan & Rabbi Harold Loss Early Childhood Center, our Jewish preschool with a four-star “Great Start to Quality” rating.

Highly qualified teachers, a nurturing environment and the latest technology result in an incredible educational foundation. Wherever you’re at spiritually or financially, come experience what makes Temple Israel so special.

TEMPLE KOL AMI 5085 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 (248) 661-0040 Fax: (248) 661-5901 www.tkolami.org Temple Kol Ami is a Reform congregation located in West Bloomfield, committed to Jewish values, education and spiritual growth. The temple is committed to creating a warm, friendly, family-oriented environment that is dedicated to providing a sense of support and community for all its members while it seeks to strengthen the bonds of loyalty with Jews everywhere.

TEMPLE SHIR SHALOM 3999 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 (248) 737-8700 Shirshalom.org A Reform synagogue serving the Metropolitan Detroit area, we are inclusive, welcoming and just the place for anyone with questions they want to ask, a willingness to learn and the desire to be part of a caring community.

CCAR

JEWSINTHED

JEWS IN THE DIGITAL AGE

P

rayer in Judaism is an interesting concept.

While there is nothing inherently wrong with one praying by oneself, there is certainly a preference for communal prayer.

Worshiping k’yachid, or individually, satisfies Rabbi Jason the Jewish obliMiller gation for daily prayer, but there are several sections of the prayer service that can only be done when a minyan (prayer quorum of 10 people) is constituted.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the strong desire we have for communal worship has posed a challenge to clergy.

Certainly, technology has solved many of the inherent problems that occur when it is impossible for community members to congregate in person due to the health risks. We have seen how video conferencing apps like Zoom have become commonplace for group worship. But we have also seen examples of what happens when technology fails, as it did for dozens of congregations dependent on the synagogue website company Shul Cloud, whose servers failed on Yom Kippur, the most heavily trafficked day of the year for virtual synagogue prayer.

Congregations are not simply relying on Zoom to be the savior of communal prayer during the pandemic. New, innovative options are being created to give congregants the feeling of truly being together in a community, whether for Shabbat and holiday prayer services, bar and bat mitzvah ceremonies or funerals and shivah minyans.

A new cutting-edge tech-

Visual T’filah

New App Enhances Prayer During Pandemic

nological prayer program that is gaining in popularity amid the pandemic is Visual T’filah. Created by the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), this app was used by nearly half of the Reform community during the recent High Holidays to enhance prayer and help worshipers find deeper meaning in prayers.

Rather than simply show the prayer leader and pages from the siddur (prayer book) on Zoom, Visual T’filah creates a multimedia experience while participants are engaged in the prayer service. It utilizes contemporary technology to display liturgy intermingled with art and other visual imagery.

Interestingly, Visual T’filah has existed for several years but because of the pandemic the resource has gained newfound, widespread use as congregations look to enhance their remote services using Zoom. The technology is rather simple since it is a collection of PowerPoint files. Each congregation can use the multimedia files as they see fit during the virtual prayer

service and can create custom slides as well.

Local congregations in Michigan have adopted Virtual T’filah already. “We have used Visual T’filah since we began meeting virtually this spring,” explained Rabbi Matthew J. Zerwekh of Temple Emanu-El in Oak Park.

“I am thankful to have an artistic and easy-to-use Rabbi tool that can help Matthew J. make our services Zerwekh accessible to our congregation, no matter if they have a prayerbook at home or not. Visual T’filah allows us to be flexible and creative with our liturgy and music while presenting a beautiful and meaningful presentation of the service.”

SENSORY EXPERIENCES When hundreds are gathered in a sanctuary, we are engaged in many sensory experiences.

This is not the case when we are looking at a computer, tablet or phone screen and only seeing other people in boxes, as is the

case with Zoom. Virtual T’filah seeks to provide some of those sensory experiences that add so much to our prayer experience, making it feel more spiritual.

Rabbi Hara Person, chief executive of the CCAR, made the case for Visual T’filah.

“While this remarkable technology has been used successfully by congregations nationwide for years,” she said, “we’re very proud to see how rabbis and their communities have embraced Visual T’filah to find new opportunities for meaningful spiritual experiences during this challenging time.”

Visual T’filah was created by Rabbi Dan Medwin, who serves as director of digital media for the CCAR. Congregations do not have to be affiliated with the Reform Movement to purchase a license for Visual T’filah. In fact, the files can be edited to adapt to any congregation and for any type of prayer service, from a high holiday gathering to an intimate bat mitzvah celebration.

Visual T’filah is just another example of the ingenuity that Jewish leaders are demonstrating during these unprecedented times. While it is still difficult to believe that we haven’t been able to gather as a community in our houses of worship since the early part of this year, we have been making due and technology has played an important role in helping us feel as if we are gathered together to worship and give thanks to God. Rabbi Jason Miller is a local educator and entrepreneur. He is president of Access Technology in West Bloomfield, a full-scale tech company and web marketing agency.

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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ARTS&LIFE FILM

struggles and victories of an immigrant community with many parallels to our own.

Together, as one sweeping artistic statement addressing decades of lost (screen)time, Small Axe is a monumental cinematic achievement. Best paired with an order of jerk chicken and fried plantains from Yumvillage restaurant in Detroit’s North End. Where to watch: Amazon Prime.

Andrew’s

Top 10 Movies of 2020

Nomadland

I

n another life, I was a film critic. This was, of course, before movie theaters became an endangered species in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But the movies still marched on in 2020, even though our ability to actually watch them outside of our homes became severely limited, and most of the big ones disappeared. (We’ll have to wait until December 2021 to see Steven Spielberg’s remake of West Side Story, for example.)

With normal life still months away, some of you may be looking for quality cinema to enjoy at home any way you can. You may even be willing to take a chance with new and unfamiliar kinds of movies you never would have watched before.

So, here are my picks for my favorite movies of 2020, along

with where you can, or will soon be able to, watch them.

(Please also support our local, Detroit-area independent theaters if you can.) #1: SMALL AXE This British anthology series, from Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen, follows various real and fictional West Indian immigrants to the U.K. from the 1960s-80s. Technically Small Axe is five films: a stirring courtroom drama (Mangrove); a sensual romance (Lovers Rock); a provocative meditation on policing (Red, White, and Blue); a compelling biopic of a writer caught between two worlds (Alex Wheatle); and a story about a school system that horribly fails its students (Education).

Individually, these movies are wonderful and capture the

PARISA TAGHIZEDEH/AMAZON PRIME

Small Axe

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SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES

ANDREW LAPIN EDITOR

#2: NOMADLAND Frances McDormand delivers a performance for the ages as Fern, a widow crisscrossing modern America looking for work, in director Chloé Zhao’s luminous drama based on the nonfiction book of the same title. Living out of her van, Fern hits the road to join up with other, real-life nomads — many playing themselves as documentary and fiction intertwine.

So McDormand is both acting and reflecting, using her craft to draw out the real-life stories of the many vibrant souls the American economy has left behind. It’s a true marvel.

Where to watch: After a brief awards-qualifying run, it will have a formal release in late February. #3: FIRST COW A frontier saga with real heart, and delicious recipes to boot.

In the Oregon Territory in the 1820s, a chef and an aspiring businessman team up to sell homecooked “oily cakes” to hungry prospectors. To do that,

A24 FILMS

First Cow

they’ll have to steal milk from the only cow in town, imported to this hostile land by a wealthy entrepreneur. Director Kelly Reichardt is an expert at evoking human struggles in uncharted territory, and here she tells a parable of bootstrapped businesses, compromise and the humanity that can still shine through.

Where to watch: Showtime; also available for rental. #4: BACURAU The weirdest of my favorites this year, by a bloody mile. This Brazilian sci-fi Western is set in a rural separatist village that has become the target of government forces and foreign mercenaries literally trying to wipe its residents off the map. To fight back, the villagers will turn to historic weaponry … and psychotropic drugs. If you gave One Hundred Years of Solitude to horror-action director John Carpenter and told him to go nuts, you might get something like this.

Where to watch: Kanopy; also available for rental.

David Byrne’s American Utopia

DAVID LEE/HBO

#5: DAVID BYRNE’S AMERICAN UTOPIA More than 35 years after Stop Making Sense, David Byrne is still rocking. This joyous concert film from the former

BO

Bad Education

HBO

geous black-and-white) sure does.

Where to watch: Netflix.

Talking Heads frontman, directed by Spike Lee, puts you in the audience for Byrne’s rollicking live show (which I had the pleasure of seeing in-person in the Before Times). The impeccable musicianship of his backing band, the intricate choreography and the passionate calls to make a better world all survive intact on the screen.

As does the genius of “Once in a Lifetime.”

Where to watch: HBO Max. #6: NEVER RARELY SOMETIMES ALWAYS “What’s important for me is to show the pain that young people go through in navigating their identity,” writer-director Eliza Hittman said when the JN interviewed her earlier this year. And that pain is felt intensely — though never overwhelmingly — in Hittman’s naturalist drama, which follows a pregnant Pennsylvania teenager (incredible newcomer Sidney Flanigan) as she hops a Greyhound to New York City with her cousin in order to obtain a legal abortion. Delicately understated and never heavy-handed, Never Rarely Sometimes Always puts us in this young woman’s head as she weighs the consequences of every decision she makes.

It’s a film that will linger for a long time.

Where to watch: HBO Max; also available for rental. #7: BAD EDUCATION Fair warning: This caustic satire of wealthy suburban school districts might occasionally hit a little too close to home. But this real-life cautionary tale about a massive fraud scheme cooked up by a bunch of Long Island public school administrators is too juicy not to enjoy.

Hugh Jackman is terrific as the two-faced superintendent, while Allison Janney and Ray Romano round out an excellent supporting cast. Fans of Election won’t want to miss this.

Where to watch: HBO. #8: CITY HALL If Bad Education (not to mention all of 2020) leaves a bad taste in your mouth regarding taxpayer-funded institutions, the latest documentary from master filmmaker Frederick Wiseman (who was raised in a Jewish family) will restore your faith. A lovingly detailed exploration of Boston City Hall, the film uses its leisurely four-hour runtime to document the many civil servants trying to make their residents’ lives just a little

bit more manageable … and the residents with the passion to try and make their city better.

Where to watch: Detroit Public TV Passport. #9: THE 40-YEAR-OLD VERSION No, not the Steve Carell sex comedy … but it just might be funnier. New York playwright Radha Blank writes, directs and stars in this uproarious autobiographical story about what you do when you reach middle age brimming with unfulfilled potential. Fed up with the obtuse white producers who keep shutting her voice out of the theater world, Radha instead finds a second calling — and new awakening — as a rapper named “RadhaMUS Prime.” And even though she may not feel lively, the New York she inhabits (shot in gor-

#10: REWIND One of the JN’s most-read online stories of the year was my review of this poignant and personal documentary, in which director Sasha Neulinger chronicles his years of recovery from horrific sexual abuse he suffered at the hands of his own relatives — one of whom was a prominent cantor in New York City. Although often understandably critical of the institutional forces that protected his abuser from consequences, Neulinger also finds a way to reaffirm his own Jewish faith through strength and survival. Rewind is both devastating and wonderous.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Kanopy or Detroit Public TV Passport; also available for rental.

MY NEXT FIVE: 11. Minari (releasing in February) 12. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (Netflix) 13. Time (Amazon Prime) 14. The Personal History of David Copperfield (available for rental) 15. Crip Camp (Netflix) GOOD MOVIES TO WATCH WITH KIDS: Wolfwalkers (on Apple TV+) Soul (on Disney+) Over the Moon (on Netflix)

COURTESY OF JOHN SOLEM

Rewind

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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ARTS&LIFE CONTRIBUTED

THEATER

DANNY SCHWARTZ STAFF WRITER

Axelrod was inspired by his experiences there and wanted to write a story about hope and how people could come from different walks of life and ultimately want to help one another.

“I kind of wrote it in the heat of the summer with the height of the Black Lives Matter movement, with the pandemic, with the election gearing up, and it just felt like a very divided time.” Axelrod said. “It was a script I had started working on before but with everything going on, I was compelled to go back to this piece that was really about unity and hope, at a time where things felt so divided and uncertain.”

Axelrod attended the Hebrew Day School in Ann Arbor and Huron High School, then attended Syracuse University’s School of Visual and Performing Arts for college and has spent the past six-anda-half years in Los Angeles pursuing screenwriting. Axelrod is also currently a legal assistant for an entertainment law firm.

ewish screenwriter Robert Axelrod, who was born and raised in the Ann Arbor area, has been selected from nearly 1,000 entries as the grand prize winner for the 2020 ScreenCraft Stage Play Writing Competition.

Written as a play, Axelrod’s winning script “Lifeline” follows a mother beginning to work through her grief by volunteering at a suicide hotline after the death of her gay teenage son.

The inspiration for the screenplay came from Axelrod volunteering for a few years at the Trevor Project, a suicide and crisis prevention hotline focusing on LGBTQ+ youth.

PRODUCERS INTERESTED Prizes for the winner of the competition, which seeks to celebrate excellent plays that have great film or TV adaptation potential, include further opportunities in getting their screenplay seen by those in Hollywood.

Axelrod, though, has already received attention for the screenplay.

“There are two producers who I had sent this to and, long story short, they’re interested in adapting it starting in the new year,” Axelrod said. “We’re still working on what that all looks like.”

No matter what happens, Axelrod hopes the piece will be

Robert Axelrod

Suicide Hotline Inspires Play Ann Arbor native wins national writing competition.

J

“MY HOPE IS TO TELL A STORY AND HOPEFULLY OPEN PEOPLE’S EYES.” — PLAYWRIGHT ROBERT AXELROD

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able to reach more people.

Axelrod says the win was a huge shock, and just being included was a valuable enough opportunity.

“It was so meaningful,” Axelrod said. “I really applied because some of the judges were Pulitzer-prize winning playwrights who are some of my absolute favorites of all time and artistic directors of theater companies whose work I’ve admired for years and years, so even just knowing that my work was read by those people was a win in and of itself.”

Axelrod believes his local Jewish beginnings helped lead him to this success.

From an early age, Axelrod said, creativity and creative writing were very much a part of the core curriculum. He was interested in stories from a very young age and helped start the school newspaper at the Hebrew Day School.

“I think that was very much a part of the education I was given in day school, whether that was learning stories from the Torah or creative writing exercises. There was just a lot of creativity imbued in the curriculum,” Axelrod said.

Those beginnings have led Axelrod to make sure Judaism often plays a role in the things he writes, and that especially may be more important now than ever.

“With antisemitism and hate crimes on the rise, I feel very compelled and (have) a responsibility to tell stories that deal with Jewish characters and communities,” Axelrod said.

“Not in a preachy way, but just to humanize people from different backgrounds. That’s my hope for things I write, to tell a story but hopefully open people’s eyes.”

FACEBOOK

RASKIN

THE BEST OF EVERYTHING

2020 Recap

L

FACEBOOK

et us hope and pray for a 2021 that will help us smile again as we look upon some of the happenings of 2020.

JANUARY … Dr. Joel Kahn and family celebrate the fourth year of their GreenSpace Cafe in Ferndale …

Former Detroiter Danny Raskin Senior Columnist brothers Derek and Greg Stevens to open the Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas … Big Tommy’s Parthenon has eighth anniversary …

Station Square name in Troy is changed to Grand Tavern Troy … Patrick Coleman’s Beans &

Cornbread in its 23rd years is acclaimed by GQ Magazine as one of Michigan’s top soul food restaurants … New restaurant

by Joe Vicari to be named Statler Bistro in Jonathan Holtzman’s new City Club Apartments on Washington Blvd. and Grand Circus Park, Detroit … Jerry Naftaly, former Oak Park mayor, finishes new version of his The Hill That Grew book … GreenSpace Cafe closes.

FEBRUARY … Fifth Tavern honors fifth birthday …

C.A.Y.A. (Come As You Are) has new owners … Dr. Steve Hutchinson, third partner in Pepino’s Restaurant, is inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame … Top executive chef Peter Loren is now at Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace on its 40th anniversary … Nino and Liz Cutraro, owners of Bella Piatti wonderful Italian

JANUARY: Big Tommy’s Parthenon

restaurant in Birmingham, also partner with movie star Mark Wahlberg on his burgers, celebrate seventh anniversary at this locale.

MARCH … Norm and Bonnie LePage and family picked after nationwide search to operate DTE Energy’s new Lumen Detroit … George Lucaj’s five restaurants honored for their carrot cake … Second annual Greek Night is a crowded success by New Parthenon.

APRIL … Darbys Remembered … Little Caesar’s Pizza celebrates anniversary from 1959 … Pepino’s celebrates 36 years as a huge dining favorite by many.

MAY … New Caucus Club enjoys third anniversary … Mike Abrams and Brian Adelman have second year of their Empire Kitchen … Golden Mushroom remembered.

JUNE … Giovanni’s

Ristorante celebrates its 52nd year … Original London Chop House is remembered …

Raleigh House is remembered …Ban on sit-down restaurants is reduced to 50 percent capacity … Jerry Naftaly’s fourth book is about Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour.

JULY … Yakov Fleysher marks second anniversary of his Bistro Le Bliss restaurant … Remembering Carl’s Chop House … Ellie’s Restaurant in Birmingham adds more “Impossible” items to its menu … Remembering the Mushroom Cellar.

AUGUST … Detroit Eats restaurant is opened in Boynton Beach, Fla. … Van Dyke Place is recalled as having a Jewish menu also.

SEPTEMBER … Gold Cup Room is remembered …

Football is canceled and then played by teams of University of

FACEBOOK

continued on page 36 JULY: Bistro le Bliss

APRIL: Pepino’s

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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NATE BLOOM COLUMNIST

FACEBOOK

LOVABLE CAT LADY; JIMMY AND BOB; WEDDING WARS; A DUTCH SURPRISE Call Me Kat, a new comedy series, premieres on Fox on Jan. 3 at 8:30 p.m. The second episode will air at its regular time (Jan. 7, 9:00 p.m.). Mayim Bialik, 44 (The Big Bang Theory), stars as an unmarried and not successful 39-year-old woman who sinks her life savings into a cat café (much to her mother’s chagrin). Complications ensue when her old crush, Max (played by Cheyenne Jackson), takes a job in a piano bar near the café. Jim Parsons, who played Bialik’s husband on Big Bang, is an executive producer of Call Me Kat. He is gay in real life, as is Cheyenne Jackson.

They were asked how they

SEPTEMBER: Gold Cup Room

OCTOBER: Bacco continued from page 35

Michigan and Michigan State University … give much to tailgate dining delight by people like Kathy and Mark Morley of Pepino’s.

OCTOBER … Wonder Bar is remembered … Bacco and Casa Pernoi birthdays are celebrated as one with different concepts but one owner, Luciano Del Signore … Bacco in Southfield and Casa Pernoi in Birmingham … Joe Vicari to

open five more restaurants …

Sid Newman of Star Deli recalls his days in Siberia to America …Clam Shop is remembered … Berman’s has national reputation … Rumor gains speed on sale of Uptown Parthenon.

NOVEMBER … Belmont Lounge is remembered …

Eckner’s Chop House is remembered … Otus Supply restaurant closes in March because of COVID and reopens in

Mayim Bialik in Call Me Kat

didn’t like it and only three important media outlets reviewed it (two gave thumbs’ down and one liked it). Still, I’m bringing it to your attention because several critics have noted it is trying to be A Big Fat Jewish Wedding and maybe it’s soothing to watch a “very Jewish” comedy now.

Alicia Silverstone, 44, plays Audrey, the (Jewish) sister of the groom (played by Jake Hoffman, 39. He’s Dustin’s son). Audrey intensely dislikes the bride, a sexy but vain French Jewish model who wants to be a pop star.

They frequently clash during the lavish, three-day “event wedding.” The supporting cast includes the late Mark Blum as Audrey’s father, Belgian Jewish actor Ronald September with music again … Former waitress Francis Kellerman tells of rude customers … Better Health Market & Cafe by Handelman family has 14 locatons now with more than 10,000 items in Novi alone.

DECEMBER … Rumor is true with sale of Uptown Parthenon to Tom Goulas of Honey Tree Greek dining repute … Name changed from Triple Nickle to Birmingham Pub with new ownership of Joe

Guttman, 68, as the father of the bride, and Michael Bernardi, 36, the son of the late Herschel Bernardi, as an Israeli rabbi “imported” to preside over the nuptials.

It’s great to find out that somebody with a big part in two acclaimed HBO series is Jewish. Dutch actor Michiel Huisman, 39, makes me happy this week.

If you watched The Game of Thrones, you certainly know him — he played Daario Naharis, a “hot” mercenary leader who allies with Danerys, “the Dragon Queen,” and becomes her lover. Huisman also played Alex, the boyfriend of the title character in The Flight Attendant. Here’s the Jewish 411 on Huisman: his mother is Jewish; it’s unclear if his father is Jewish; and his brother, a retired pro soccer player, told a Dutch sports site: I am Jewish as far as faith is concerned. Friday is therefore a real family day.

Vicari … Owner Ben Kasle said to have created chopped sirloin from ground steak corners at his Berman’s Chop House …

Mort Meisner’s book a winner.

Wishes to all for a very healthy New Year, hopeful that COVID-19 will go away soon and we’ll be back to much happiness, healthy and normal living.

Danny’s email address is dannyraskin2132@gmail.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY BETTER HEALTH FACEBOOK

CELEBRITY JEWS

“faked” being romantically interested in Bialik. Parsons gave a great answer: Everybody loves Mayim. She is easy to love. Jackson seconded this answer.

Last September, the documentary Jimmy Carter: Rock and Roll President got a brief theater run. It begins streaming on CNN on Jan. 3. Carter, now 96, likes rock and roll, which he made clear even before he became president in 1977. Many popular musicians are his friends, including Bob Dylan, 79, Willie Nelson and Gregg Allman.

Dylan rarely gives interviews, but he movingly talks in this film about how he and Carter hit it off during their very first meeting in 1974. They have remained good friends and along the way they both won Nobel Prizes.

The Groom’s Sister, a comedy film, was released to video-on-demand services on Dec. 17 without much advance publicity. Most critics

FOX

ARTS&LIFE

NOVEMBER: Better Health Keto Cheesecake Tart, a Cafe offering and Vegan cookie dough bars.

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

ON THE GO

PEOPLE | PLACES | EVENTS

NOW ACCEPTING CONSIGNME for our next au NTS ction:

INTRO TO JUDAISM 7:30-9 PM, JAN. 5 This 10-week course explores Jewish life, values, celebrations, history, theology and spirituality with Temple Israel’s clergy. This class is open to all — interfaith couples, those raising Jewish children, individuals considering conversion, and anyone who just wants to learn more about Judaism. No charge.

Students are encouraged to purchase a selection of recommended books.

Register online at temple-israel.org/onlineintro.

COPING WITH ANXIETY 3:30-4:30 PM, JAN. 6 Jewish Family Service presents “When Anxiety is the New Normal: How to Cope During COVID.” Join psychiatrist Dr. Jeffrey London as he provides an introduction to anxiety disorders and how to cope during this difficult time. Register at jfsdetroit. org/drlondon for this free Zoom event.

FAMILY ARCHIVES NOON-1 PM, JAN. 7 The Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit will offer this free online event. Join Robbie Terman of the Leonard N. Simons Jewish Community Archives and Laura Williams of the Rabbi Leo M. Franklin Archives as they share tips and tricks for organizing your own family’s archives. This three-week course will cover photographs, documents and recording your family stories through oral history.

Register on web page: Jewish Detroit Community Calendar.

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the exchange

SPOTLIGHT

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Cohn-Haddow is hosting its 6th Annual High School Writing Competition!

It is open to ninth through twelfth grade students in the Metro Detroit area, who will have a chance to win a $500 cash prize, and $100 prizes for honorable mentions, for a best original work of poetry, prose, or non-fiction that deals with an aspect of Jewish culture and Jewish life, past and present.

Suggested topics and themes include: • Israelis and Jews: Do we speak the same language?

• Does Judaism have a diversity requirement?

• What does “proud to be a Jew” mean in 2020?

The best two submissions in each category will be awarded a $500 cash prize, with awards of $100 for honorable mentions in each category. In addition, award-winning entries will be published online.

The deadline for this year’s submissions is March 1, 2021.

For competition guidelines, rules and how to submit entries, visit Judaicstudies.wayne.edu/writingcompetition.

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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39

SOUL

OF BLESSED MEMORY

Sinai’s Longtime Doctor JACK LESSENBERRY SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH NEWS

D

r. Stanley Hurwick Levy, whose life was touched by a chance meeting with Albert Einstein, and who came to Detroit to practice at the then-new Sinai Hospital in the early 1950s, died at his Bloomfield Hills home Dec. 17, 2020, from natural causes. He was 94.

Attorney Geoffrey Fieger, a longtime patient, said “doctors like him come along once in a lifetime.

His inquisitive mind never stopped thinking about solutions, diagnoses and possibilities.”

Robert Levy, the younger of Dr. Levy’s two sons, said his father “was the only physician in Detroit to practice at Sinai from the day it opened until the day it closed,” when Sinai Hospital was merged with the former Grace Hospital in 1999.

Dr. Levy, an internal medicine expert who was extremely dedicated to his patients, continued after that to maintain a private practice in Detroit, and later Southfield, where his waiting room was always full. He did not retire until October 2019, by which time he had practiced medicine for 70 years.

He was born in Pittsburgh to David and Eva Hurwick Levy on July 10, 1926, and largely grew up there, though his family lived briefly in Dallas and Waco,

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Texas, during the Great Depression.

But the main turning point in his life came during World War II. In January 1944, he joined the U.S. Navy and was sent to the U.S. Navy’s V-12 accelerated education program at Princeton, which had been notoriously reluctant to admit Jewish students.

That spring, he and a few classmates were invited to a seder where he was seated next to Einstein. Months later, they had another conversation on campus after Levy had spent a day taking exams. “He was really interested in how I had done,” Levy later would say.

That led to a lifetime fascination with the great physicist and his work.

After graduating from Princeton and earning his M.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Levy came to Detroit to open the Atomic (later Nuclear) Medicine unit at Sinai, one of the first of its kind.

He also became a serious book collector, and the centerpiece of his vast personal library was a collection of works by and about Einstein.

EINSTEIN MONUMENT Early this century, Dr. Levy learned to his shock that there was no monument commemorating Einstein in Princeton, where the great

Dr. Stanley Levy

man lived from the time he fled the Nazis in 1933 till his death in 1955. So, Levy donated a large amount of money and successfully led a fund drive to remedy this. Eventually, the famous sculptor Robert Berks was commissioned to do a large bronze bust of Einstein, which was dedicated in April 2005 at what is now EMC Square.

But besides his practice, his Einstein stories and his library, which became wellknown to the nation’s book collectors, Dr. Levy also became briefly famous in the 1990s, when he emerged as a close friend and strong supporter of another of his patients — Dr. Jack Kevorkian, who fought to make physician-assisted suicide acceptable. Dr. Levy helped organize a group called Physicians for Mercy, and appeared in a number of documentaries about Kevorkian, who later went to prison and died in 2011.

Dr. Levy was also an adjunct professor of medicine at Wayne State University for 30 years, and an active financial and personal supporter of many causes ranging from the Chamber Music Society of Detroit to Planned Parenthood and the Humane Society.

Dr. Levy is survived by his sons, E.J. Levy and Robert (Randi Steinbruck) Levy; his grandchildren, Stephanie (David Blumenthal) Levy, Daniel Levy and Alana Goldstein Levy; and nieces and nephews, Allen Aronsson, Dr. Stig Aronsson, Steven Levy, Carol Levy and Louise Levy Schuster; and his longtime caregiver, Patricia Harris.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Dr. Marshall Levy of Pittsburgh; and two wives, Susanne Jackson Levy, who died in 1982, and Rita Jacobs Levy, who died in 2011.

Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery in Birmingham. Contributions may be made to the United Jewish Foundation of Metropolitan Detroit for the Susanne Jackson Levy Scholarship Fund, (248) 642-4260; JVS Human Service’ Single Soul Suicide Prevention Program, (248) 559-5000; or the Peace and Conflict Studies Program at Wayne State University.

Arrangements were by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

ELAINE BLUMA BAKER, 89, of Commerce Township, died Dec. 19, 2020, at West Hickory Haven Nursing Home from COVID-19.

She was born May 1, 1931, to Isedor and Esther (Karsinovich) Chernoff.

Elaine graduated from Central High School in Detroit, class of 1949.

She worked at Henry Ford Hospital in Dietary Services. In 1949, she married Leonard Kahrnoff, who predeceased her in 1980. She married Mort Baker in 1985; he predeceased her in 1992.

Elaine loved to entertain her friends. She enjoyed playing bridge and mah jong.

She loved animals.

She lived for several years in Sarasota, Fla., but she moved back to West Bloomfield in 2011 and lived in the Hechtman Senior Apartments.

Mrs. Baker is survived by her daughter, Jill S. Dunn (Craig) of Carmel, Ind.; son, Les M. Kahrnoff (Loren) of Sarasota, Fla.; daughter, Cynthia A. Kahrnoff of Commerce Township; her loving nephew, Edward Cherkinsky and his wife, Barbara; her grandchildren, Ryan S. Dunn, Erin L. Dunn, Breanne R. Rudd (Jeff), and Jeremy L. Dunn.

She was also predeceased by her sisters, Gertrude Silverman, Libby Cherkinsky and Anna Chernoff.

Interment was at Adat Shalom Memorial Park.

Contributions may be made to Jewish Senior LifeHechtman Apartments, 6700 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322; or Michigan Humane Society, 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, MI

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continued on page 42 DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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You can honor the memory of a loved one in a most meaningful way by sponsoring a day of Torah learning at Yeshiva Beth Yehudah.

During the coming week, Kaddish will be said for these departed souls during the daily minyan at Yeshiva Beth Yehudah. Your support of the Torah learning of our children and our Kollel’s Torah Scholars brings immeasurable heavenly merit. Please call us at 248-557-6750 for more information.

19 Teves Jan. 3, 2021

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20 Teves Jan. 4, 2021

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22 Teves Jan. 6, 2021

Miriam Berris Ida Boesky Herman Eizen Leya Griner Rachel Kaiman Jacob Lieberman Max Linovitz Robert Margolis Jacob Poss Myron Rosenthal Bella Rubin Ann Gross Starr Beatrice Vaccara

Max Delin Edis Dorfman Harry Goldman Solomon Grevnin 23 Teves Jan. 7, 2021 Percy A. Maslowe Herman K. Cohen Norma Jean Meer Allen M Dinkin Pearl Pelavin Jacob Gormezano Abraham David Sachs David Hess Ethel Scherr Harry Horowitz Carl Singer Joseph Hyman 21 Teves Jan. 5, 2021 Anna Lichtenstein Jack Bookstein Beckie Mason Leo Finkelstein Sarah Repitor Anne Harris Joe Scherr Simon Lefkowitz Rosa Schloss

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24 Teves Jan. 8, 2021

Eva Alpert Ann Bard Ida Blum David Drazin Kopel Dworkin Esther Flayer Charles (Tobias) Gellman Steven David Gross Isaac Henig Archie Hoffman Solomon Lumberg Dr. Grant Lewis Mitchell Harry Morrison Marcus Rothbart Hedwig Schloss Samuel Weber Jeanette Weiss Sam Yuster

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

SOUL

OF BLESSED MEMORY continued from page 41

48025. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

EDWIN BARRIS, 80, of Elk Grove, Calif., formerly of Detroit, died Dec. 9, 2020.

He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Kelly Barris; daughter and sonin-law, Amy and Robert Rosender; grandchildren, Olivia Barris, Megan Rosender, Ethan Rosender and Elina Rosender; sister, Betsyrose Rudin.

Mr. Barris was the cherished father of the late Cantor Neil David Barris; the dear brother-in-law of the late Gerald Rudin.

Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery.

Contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

ELSA AND MANNY BLEEMAN, of Danville, Calif.

“Til Death c. 1944 Do Us Part” was not a phrase that Manny and Elsa Bleeman chose to believe in. Elsa, 92, left us on Nov. 30, 2020. Manny, 94, wanting to be with his bride of more than 74 years, was close behind, departing this world on Dec. 9, 2020.

Theirs was a storybook life filled with world travel, a steadfast love for their children and grandchildren, and clinging to each other through the loss of their oldest daughter, Janice, at much too young of an age.

They touched the lives of and left an impression on so many people, from their closest family to friends and

acquaintances. The world lost two very special people, who will remain in the hearts of those that knew them for a lifetime.

Manny and Elsa are survived by their daughter, Karen Courville (Mike); son-in-law, Michael Wilson; grandchildren, Adam (Nikki) Wilson, Shana Schank (Tim), Josh Wilson and Ari Slater (Elizabeth); great-grandchildren, Bailey and Jacob Wilson, Noah, Isaac and Eli Schank. They are also survived by Elsa’s siblings, Dr. Robert (Dr. Mimi) Abramovitz, Rosalie (George) Schwartz. Her deceased siblings are the late Shirley and the late Lester Waldman.

Contributions may be made to the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society.

Interment was held at Adat Shalom Memorial Park Cemetery in Livonia.

Arrangements by Dorfman Chapel.

KRISTA BRASCH, 53, of West Bloomfield, died Dec. 17, 2020.

She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Warren Brasch; daughters, Alayna, Emily and Chloe Brasch; mother, Helen McCredie; sisters and brothers-in-law, Kim and Louie Valentine, and Jennifer and Jerry Butler; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Abbey and Ken Nathan; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Miles and Ann Brasch; devoted friends, Adam and Carol Cooper, Heidi and Gary Mekjian, and Ed and Michelle Peres.

Mrs. Brasch was the devoted daughter of the late Don

McCredie.

Interment was at Beth El Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to American Liver Foundation, 39 Broadway, Suite 2700, New York, NY 10006, liverfoundation.org. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

CLAIRE BRONSON, 89, of Highland Park, Ill., died Dec. 16, 2020.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-inlaw, Mike and Jane Bronson, and Dan and Honey Bronson; sister, Joyce Pennington; grandchildren, Jennifer and Doug Robins, Benjamin and Ali Bronson, and Sarah Bronson; great-grandchildren, Adam Robins, Nathan Robins and Eli Bronson.

Mrs. Bronson was the

beloved wife of the late Judge S. Jerome Bronson; the loving companion of the late Robert Sillman.

Interment was at Beth El Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to Sunrise of Highland Park, Memo: Team Member Appreciation, 1601 Green Bay Road, Highland Park, IL 60035, sunriseseniorliving.com. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

ROBERT DICKMAN, 76, of Bloomfield Hills, died on Dec. 16, 2020.

He, along with his wife, Ellen, founded the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic in 1994, where he served as clinic director and lead attorney until his retirement in 2013.

Mr. Dickman was the beloved

husband for 30 years of Ellen Dickman; father of Ken (Francie) Dickman, Jason (Doreen) Dickman, Brian (Jill) Dickman, Robert (Danielle) Dickman, Frank Dickman, Melissa (Patrick) Garrett, Charles (Lisa) Luftig; grandfather of Gracie, Lilly, Evie, Jillian, Jaelah, Jude, Joaquin and Addison Dickman, Jillian and Leo Garrett, Robin and Justin Luftig. He is also survived by sister-in law, Bernice Resnick of Florida.

Mr. Dickman was the cherished son of the late Frank and the late Dorothy Dickman.

Contributions may be made to the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic, 3232 Lawton St., Detroit, MI 48208, 313-3616340, donate.salmich.org/ give/172562/#!/donation/ checkout.

RONALD “ROHN” GOLDMAN, 85, of Southfield, died Dec. 18, 2020.

He is survived by his daughters and sons-inlaw, Lydia Diane Goldman and Steven Derenzo, and Melinda and Greg DeFauw; son and daughter-in-law, Vincent John and Jennifer Marie Goldman; grandchild, Lana Bryce Rodman; sister, Helen Wilk.

Mr. Goldman was the beloved husband of the late Lucie Goldman.

Contributions may be made to Chamber Music Society of Detroit, 5470 Chene St., Suite 205, Detroit, MI 48211, chambermusicdetroit.org; or Yad Ezra, 2850 W. 11 Mile Road, Berkley, MI 48072, yadezra. org. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. continued on page 44

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SOUL

OF BLESSED MEMORY continued from page 43

YEARA HOUVRAS (née Gorfinkel), 81, died on Dec. 10, 2020.

She was born on Kibbutz Kinneret, on the shore of the Lake Kinneret on June 16, 1939. Yeara’s parents traveled to Israel in 1935 from Riga, Latvia, to participate in the second Maccabiah Games. Like other athletes in the Maccabiah II, they were escaping rising antisemitism in Europe and they made a permanent home in Israel.

They moved to Ramatayim (Hod Hasharon), where her father was a physical education teacher. Yeara was the eldest of three daughters and was drawn to studying biology and chemistry. She attended the New School in Tel Aviv and was a

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

medic in the Israeli Army.

In 1962, Yeara traveled to the United States to attend Wayne State University in Detroit.

She was warmly taken in by the Jewish community as were many Israelis of her generation in Detroit. Yeara studied chemistry and worked at the Michigan Cancer Foundation, where she made contributions to the study of protein biochemistry.

She met Nick Houvras, a native Detroiter, married and started a family. After raising her children, Yeara returned to work as a scientist in the polymer chemistry industry, where her work led to several patents.

She returned to Israel many times and family remained the center of her life.

In recent years, Yeara read fiction in Hebrew, loved to watch movies with her husband and delighted in talking to friends and family. She took immense joy in the lives and milestones of her children and grandchildren.

This winter, the family learned that Yeara had pancreatic cancer; after a brief hospitalization, she passed away.

Mrs. Houvras is survived by her husband, Nick; her daughter and son-in-law, Irit and Rainer; her son and daughter-in-law, Yariv and Judy; their children, Noa, Aitan and Ezra.

Contributions in Yeara’s memory to support pancreatic cancer research may be made to the Karmanos Cancer Institute, karmanos.org/giftofhope.

DAVID ALEX OPPENHEIM, 77, of Medfield, Mass., died Dec. 11, 2020, in Boston with his beloved wife and daughter beside him.

David was born in Detroit, the son of Joseph and Florence (Elconin) Oppenheim. Oak Park High School classmates remember him as a valued friend and an excellent clarinetist.

A University of Michigan graduate, Dave earned M.A.’s in mathematics and computer science from the University of Wisconsin. A software engineer by profession, he was an accomplished amateur photographer and chef.

Mr. Oppenheim leaves his wife, Judith Kruntorad; his daughter, Cheryl Mazzoli

(Christopher); and granddaughters, Amanda and Sarah, of Birmingham, Mich., his sister, Judy Olinick (Michael) of Middlebury, Vt., and a loving extended family.

GERALD SALLAN, 86, of Bloomfield Hills, died Decr.15, 2020.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Sallan; daughter, LyzaBeth Bayard; son and daughter-inlaw, Andy and Lesly Sallan; grandchildren, Jillian Sallan and her fiance, Ricky Sanders, Sydnee Sallan and her fiance, Brandon Grodman, Dean Sallan and Ceshia J. Hegarty; brother, Don Sallan; sister, JoAnne Niskar.

Interment was at Adat Shalom Memorial Park.

Contributions may be made to a Jewish education charity, or a charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements by Kaufman Chapel.

ARTHUR SHAFER, 94, of Laguna Woods, Calif., died Dec. 19, 2020.

He is survived by c. 1958 his son and daughter-in-law, Bruce and Stephanie Shafer; grandchildren, Anna Rose Shafer and Emiline Maria Shafer; sister, Muriel Rosen.

Mr. Shafer was the beloved husband of the late Simone Shafer; the devoted son of the late Isador and the late Lena Shafer.

Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Friends of the IDF, P.O. Box 999, Walled Lake, MI 48390, fidf.org/donate.

Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.

ILENE STEIN, 65, of Algonac, died Dec. 18, 2020.

She is survived by her husband, Keith Stein; daughter and son-in-law, Melanie and Eric Morrow of Wilmette, Ill.; son, Scott Stein of Berkley; brothers and sisters-in-law, Michael and Andrea Sriro of Texas, Ray and Linda Sriro, Kevin Stein; grandchildren, Ezra Morrow, Levi Morrow; motherin-law, Lillian Stein; many cherished nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Stein was the treasured daughter of the late Milton Sriro and the late Florence Sriro; dear daughter-in-law of the late Martin Stein; dear sister-in-law of the late Mark Stein, the late Gordon Stein and the late Adam Stein.

Contributions may be made to ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), 424 E. 92nd St., New York, New York 10128; or the St. Clair Foundation, stclairfoundation.org. A family graveside service was held at Adat Shalom Memorial Park in Livonia.

Arrangements by Hebrew Memorial Chapel.

ROBERT ZUCKER, 54, of Nashville, Tenn., formerly of Detroit, died Dec. 2, 2020.

He is survived by his mother, Mitzie Zuker; brothers and sisters-in-law, Dr. Kevin and Adriene Zucker of Buffalo Grove, Ill., Eric and Robyn Zucker of Pleasant Ridge, Dr. Terry and Ellyn Zucker of Glenview, Ill.; many loving nieces and nephews.

Mr. Zucker was the beloved son of the late Morris Zucker.

Contributions may be made to Federation, 6735 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303; or to a charity of one’s choice. A family graveside service was held at Hebrew Memorial Park. Arrangements

by Hebrew Memorial Chapel.

P

A True People Person

hilip Kaplan, 95, of art. They made many new West Bloomfield, friends along the way. Phil passed away Dec. was always very curious 21, 2020, after a long and and interested in everyone fulfilling life. he knew and met. This led He was born on July 5, to long conversations and 1925, the fifth-youngest many opportunities to dischild of Isaac and Fanny cuss the latest in politics, Kaplan. He grew world affairs and up in Detroit and the challenges of his older brothers daily life. and sister took He was well great pride in their known for his baby brother. He sense of humor worked hard in and many would his father’s fish often seek him market. out for the latest On Aug 13, joke. He truly Philip Kaplan 1943, he and the loved life. love of his life, Mr. Kaplan is Diane Pritz, went out on survived by his loving wife their first date and an of 73 years, Diane; his son, enduring love affair, partGary (Wendy); daughter, nership and friendship Janet (Howard); grandchilresulted in 73 years of dren, Erin Zeitler (Daniel) wonderful marriage. They and Zachary Kaplan; had three children, Gary, great-grandchildren, Riley Robert and Janet. and Mason. He also leaves Phil was clearly a peoloving nieces, nephews, ple person and that was a great-nieces, great-nephgreat attribute for a career ews and many friends, in business. He and his especially in Seattle, North brother Sidney acquired Carolina and the Detroit Northside Hardware in area.

Wayne, Mich., in 1955 and Interment was at Adat grew the business into one Shalom Memorial Park. of the most successful inde- Contributions may be pendent hardware stores in made to Detroit Institute the country. Phil became a of Arts, 5200 Woodward leader of the local business Ave., Detroit, MI community. He continued 48202, dia.org; Birmingham to work until almost his Temple, 28611 W. 12 90th birthday and develMile, Farmington Hills, MI oped numerous very special 48334, birminghamtemple. friendships that endured org; or Virginia Mason over his entire life.

Medical Center, 1100 Phil and Diane had rich 9th Ave., Seattle, WA and full lives. They traveled 98101, virginiamason.org/ to all the continents and seattle. their trips often included Arrangements were by adventure, history and Ira Kaufman Chapel.

DECEMBER 31 • 2020

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Looking Back

From the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History accessible at www.djnfoundation.org

A Master Architect

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efore the year ends, there is one more anniversary to acknowledge. In 2020, Albert Kahn Associates Inc. has celebrated its 125th year anniversary. Its namesake, founder and Jewish Detroiter Albert Kahn, was an innovator and the world’s foremost industrial designer and architect of the 20th century.

Kahn’s impact upon Detroit is visible and all around us.

Mike Smith Drive around Detroit and you Alene and will find hundreds — yes, hunGraham Landau Archivist Chair dreds — of Kahn Associates buildings. For example, start at Belle Isle and see the Kahn-designed aquarium (1904), the first aquarium in America. In the New Center area you will see “Detroit’s Largest Art Object,” the city’s iconic art-deco Kahn masterpiece, the Fisher Building (1928). Downtown, see the prestigious Detroit Athletic Club (1915).

Sidenote — when Kahn designed the Athletic Club, Jews were not allowed to be members. Kahn was offered but declined a membership.

Travel west of Detroit to see other Kahn buildings. In Dearborn, see the Ford Motor Company’s massive River Rouge industrial complex. When completed, it was the largest in the world (1917-1928). Further west, in Ann Arbor, you could attend a concert at the beautiful Hill Auditorium at the University of Michigan (1913), one of several Kahn structures on its campus.

Sidenote — despite Henry Ford I’s antisemitism, Kahn was the chief architect for the Ford Motor Company during his lifetime.

Kahn represented a classic tale of immigrant success in the United States. Born in Germany in 1869, Kahn was the oldest son of a rabbi. The family migrated to America in 1881, and soon after, to Detroit. Kahn left school in the seventh grade to find work and support his family. After working in odd jobs, he was hired as an errand boy at the architecture firm of Mason & Rice. In

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DECEMBER 31 • 2020

1895, Kahn struck-out on his own as an architect. By 1920, his firm had 400 employees. Before his death in 1942, Kahn transformed his company into the employee-owned firm it is today.

Albert Kahn and Kahn Associates are often cited in the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History over the past century, on 1,148 pages of the Detroit Jewish Chronicle and JN. Kahn is first mentioned in the Chronicle on April 14, 1916, on a list that shows his $1,000 contribution toward the relief of Jews in Europe during WWI. The front-page story in the Nov. 2, 1917, issue of the Chronicle cites his presentation of plans for a new Temple Beth El, which opened in 1922. On Dec. 11, 1942, his death was front page news for the Chronicle and for a feature story and editorial in the JN. In short, the Davidson Archive holds many stories about Kahn and Kahn buildings, as well as books and exhibits about Kahn. He continues to be a subject of current interest.

Only a few other elite designers and architects have made a mark on the landscape of America and the world like that of Albert Kahn. If you live anywhere in Metro Detroit, you are only a few minutes away from a Kahn building, a visible reminder of the work of a great Jewish Detroiter.

BTW — there is a new Albert Kahn Legacy Foundation, established to honor Kahn’s life, work, and lasting influence. Go to albertkahnlegacy.org for details.

Want to learn more? Go to the DJN Foundation archives, available for free at www.djnfoundation.org.

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