The Reflector December 2020

Jewish Community Federation 6

Reflector

the

in this

issue

SYNAGOGUES

Volume 68 | Issue 12

OF RICHMOND

HAPPY HANUKKAH

Kislev/Tevet 5781 | December 2020

SUPER SUNDAY VIRTUAL DECEMBER 6

SCAVENGER HUNT PAGE 18

AGENCIES

30-YEAR LEGACY PAGE 10

COMMUNITY

“MR. CENTER”

TABLE of CONTENTS

PAGES 14-15 FEDERATION

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AGENCIES

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SYNAGOGUES

16

COMMUNITY

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HADASSAH

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FOUNDATION

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Pictured are some of the volunteers at past Super Sunday events. This year’s Super Sunday on Dec. 6, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., will be held as a virtual event with a host of Federation volunteers making calls safely from their homes. Please Answer the Call as we raise funds for the Annual Campaign to help Jews in Richmond, in Israel and around the world. For more, see Page 4.

.An honor to raise money Federation Commentary

Wishing you and your family a Joyous hanukkah

on behalf of Federation

By Jesse Feld Director, Development & Engagement

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ive years ago, my wife, Anna, and I made the decision to move to Richmond, so I could continue my Jewish communal career with the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

We didn’t have any family or friends in Richmond, and the truth was we had only spent a couple of days here.

Friends would ask, “Aren’t you nervous to move to a place where you don’t know anyone?” And, although we knew we’d miss the community we were leaving, our answer was often, “no, with a Jewish community that strong, we know we’ll be surrounded by great people.”

Luckily for us, we were right.

I’ve always been proud to be Jewish, and being able to carry that pride has always been easy for me. The pride and ease that I’m lucky enough to feel is directly linked to the work of Jewish Federations.

The Jewish preschool, day school, overnight camp, teen movements and Hillel program that helped to shape whom I am today, were all supported by community dollars to the Jewish Federation.

Working for, donating to, and raising money on behalf of our Jewish Community Federation of Richmond is a distinct honor that means so much to me

The officers, Board of direcT irecTors and sTaff of The JeWish communiTy federaTion of richmond

Jesse Feld . JCFR Photo

every year, and feels even more important during these difficult times we’ve been facing.

This being the Federation’s 85th year, makes it so evident the Federation is ‘here for good.’ Both here to stay, and here to do good in, and for our community.

Every year, we ask each community member to make a donation to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. Every year, these gifts help sustain historical entities that represent the backbone of our Jewish community, build exciting and innovative ideas to work toward an even more vibrant Jewish future, and support the vulnerable to ensure all members of our community can live with dignity.

This year, of course, is not like every other year. However, our mission is our constant. Sustaining, building and supporting the Jewish community is more relevant than ever, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Our organized Jewish community is not immune to the financial uncertainty that has affected so many. That’s why this year, we are asking everyone to make a donation, and ensure that our community continues to build from strength to strength.

Making a gift today has never been easier. You can visit our website at: jewishrichmond.org or send me an email at jfeld@jewishrichmond.org.

My family’s decision to move to Richmond five years ago was an easy one because of the strength of this Jewish community. With a little Tzedakah, you have the power to make it even

VIRTUAL SUPER SUNDAY December 6

10 A.M. - 1 P.M.

stronger.

For more about Community Chronicles and the Annual Campaign, contact Federation Director of Development Jesse Feld at jfeld@jewishrichmond.org.

Happy Hanukkah.

REFLECTOR

THE

How good & pleasant it is for brethren to dwell in unity.

The Reflector is published monthly by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Copy must be received two-and-a-half weeks prior to the date of publication. The Reflector reserves the right to edit or refuse any copy or advertisement submitted. Views expressed by guest writers and reader’s letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

Call for information about advertising in The Reflector at 545-8655. Acceptance of advertising does not endorse or guarantee Kashruth.

Ellen Renee Adams, President

Daniel Staffenberg, Chief Executive Officer Raymond (Skip) Kozakewicz, Editor Sara Rosenbaum, Director of Impact and Community Planning Jesse Feld, Director of Development and Engagement David Cohen, Director, Jewish Community Relations Meghan Kelly, Marketing Manager

PLEASE ANSWER THE CALL YOUR GIFT HELPS JEWS IN RICHMOND, IN ISRAEL AND AROUND THE WORLD .

2 | the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

Jewish Community Federation

OF RICHMOND

5403 Monument Avenue • Richmond, VA 23226

(804) 545-8620 Email: reflector@jewishrichmond.org

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Federation Happenings

Federation community investments make a significant impact A

Daniel Staffenberg Chief Executive Officer Jewish Community Federation of Richmond

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round the world, attacks against Jewish communities and institutions are on the rise.

From anti-Israel vitriol on American campuses to desecrated religious centers in Europe, and even threats right here in Richmond, Jews have become targets of extremism.

These new threat levels have compelled the Jewish community to think differently about security. Safety and security of the Jewish community has long been of primary importance to the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. A year ago, our Federation took a regional and national leadership role in responding to these concerns.

Thanks to investments from donors and our Annual Campaign, Federation launched the first Federation regional security program in the U.S., partnering with Secure Community Network (SCN) and United Jewish Community of the Virginia Peninsula to launch the initiative. In recent months, we were excited to welcome the Tidewa-

Rabbi Reflection

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abbi Hugo Gryn, a Holocaust Survivor who grew to become a prominent British Rabbi, once told a story about the time he shared a barrack in Auschwitz with his father: In spite of the unspeakable horror, oppression and hardship, many Jews held onto what scraps of Jewish religious observance as they were able.

One midwinter evening one of the inmates reminded us that tonight was the first night of Chanukah, the festival of lights. My father constructed a little Chanukah Menorah out of scrap metal.

For a wick, he took some threads from his prison uniform. For oil, he used some butter that he somehow obtained from a guard. Such observances were strictly ‘verboten,’ but we were used to taking risks.

Rather, I protested at the ‘waste’of precious calories. Would it not be better to share the butter on a crust of bread than burn it? “Hugo,” said my father, “both you and I know that a person can live a very long time without food. But Hugo, I tell you, a person cannot live a single day without hope.”

Hope, of course, is the expectation that something good will happen, even though past experience or present circumstance www.JewishRichmond.org

ter Jewish Community into the program, ensuring resources are maximized throughout Central Virginia. Together we are fostering a culture of empowerment, collaboration and vigilance, ensuring all Jewish organizations operate safely and securely.

Last December, the program took a huge step forward, welcoming the community’s first Regional Security Advisor, Dave Brackins. Dave leads our program serving as a single-point of contact for critical incident coordination, information and intelligence sharing, safety and security training and resources for Jewish Richmond and Central Virginia.

As we come upon the one-year anniversary of the program, there is much to be proud of with these impressive results: • 176 security consultations completed • 17 security assessments completed, resulting in partner Agencies and Synagogues receiving

over $457,000 in Homeland Security Grants (a four-fold increase over previous achievements) • 30 Law Enforcement briefings and meetings • Responded to 29 incidents of concern or security issues • Trained 182 members of our community during 12 training sessions including Stop the Bleed, Greeter/Usher and Active Threat training Having a Regional Security Advisor locally is a vital element of Federation’s collaboration with SCN, the official safety and security organization of the American Jewish community, as all work together to create a knowledge and security safety net here in Richmond.

To learn more about the program, contribute to our Security Fund or arrange a security training for your group or organization, please reach out to Dave at dbrackins@jewishrichmond.org, Feel free to reach out to me at daniel@jewishrichmond.org.

The real hero of Hanukkah is hope should rightly lead one to believe otherwise. This definition makes hope sound like delusional fantasy. It’s not. Hope is a perspective we can choose to adopt about our experiences, a posture that helps us determine the next best course of action.

Only if we choose to hope when looking at pervasive and stubborn negative circumstances in our lives and world, only if we believe that brokenness is not inevitable, will we remain committed to doing what is necessary to pursue a better future.

On the other hand, when we despair, our spirits wither, our passions wane, and we leave things as they are, compounding upon their inevitability.

That’s why neither great warriors nor long-lasting oil jugs are the real heroes of Hanukkah. The real hero of Hanukkah is hope. Hope is what empowered a motley crew of rural priests to rebel against the mighty Greek King Antiochus IV and his far more powerful army. Hope is what encouraged those Maccabees to persist in their struggle for freedom even though

greatly outnumbered and outmatched.

Hope is why some anonymous Temple Priest hid a cruse of kosher oil while the Greeks controlled and defiled the Temple, with the expectation that, one day the Menorah would be relit. And hope is why the Maccabees poured the contents of their only oil cruse into the Menorah, even though they needed an 8 day supply.

Without hope, there would be no Hanukkah, and there would be no Judaism. So the lights we kindle on Hanukkah are flames of hope, essential for illuminating a dark world.

“A person cannot live a single day without hope.” So often, it can feel that there is too much darkness in our lives and in our world to repair. The pandemic, economic crisis, uprising for Black Lives, tumultuous election season have, for many of us, only exacerbated those feelings. This wild year has given us plenty of reasons to despair.

But Judaism insists we work to make our world a more compassionate, just, and peaceful place. If that’s our task, then

Rabbi Michael Knopf Temple Beth-El File Photo

nothing is more important than hope.

Only through hope, only through believing that our lives and our world can be repaired despite prevalent and stubborn brokenness, will we remain committed to doing what is necessary to fix it. As Rabbi Gryn’s father put it, “Never let it go out.

Not here. Not anywhere.”

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Federation Happenings

Answer the Call on Super Sunday: Dec. 6

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oin the community on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. to make and answer the call on Virtual Super Sunday to support the work of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

A host of 2021 Annual Campaign volunteers hope to reach 1,000 community members by making calls from the safety of their homes.

Your gift to the 2021 Annual Campaign supports Jews in our community, in Israel and around the world. This year has been tough for many in our community as we continue to struggle with the uncertainty unleashed by COVID-19 as well as the accompanying economic turmoil. The Federation has stepped forward and assisted our local Agencies with their unexpected needs during these tough times.

On Super Sunday your phone conversation can make a difference in the lives of Jews in our community, in Israel, and around the world. Work with other Federation volunteers and help us make a positive impact in someone’s life.

To volunteer, contact Jesse Feld at jfeld@jewishrichmond.org or call (804) 545-8623.

To make a gift to the 2021 Annual Campaign, contact Jesse Feld, Federation director of development and engagement, at (804) 545-8623 or jfeld@jewishrichmond.org.

Pictured are a few more of our Super Sunday volunteers from past years. This year, Federation volunteers will be calling from the safety of their homes. JCFR Photos

New Digital Reflector We are working on an enhanced digital Reflector that will work well on Smartphones, tablets and other devices. This new digital publication will have all the up-to-date news and information on the community, Agencies, Synagogues and more.

The Digital Reflector will supplement our printed newspaper.

Scheduled to launch in January!

To be the first to try it out in January, email Reflector Editor Skip Kozakewicz at skozakewicz@reflector.org .

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www.JewishRichmond.org

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Jewish Community Relations Committee

David Cohen Director - Jewish Community Relations Jewish Community Federation of Richmond

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s the fall election season approached, the community relations field was focused intently on the idea of “the center.”

This was in response to what has been aptly described as the “polarization” gripping our country, our Richmond community – and most definitely the Jewish community.

As election results came in during the week of November 3rd, and it looked like we may have a Presidential transition, many people spoke a great deal about how our divided country needed to be brought together – to find its center.

However, as the election results began to indicate a winner – we discovered not everyone seemed interested in this ephemeral center. And so, we found ourselves at another inflection point.

This moment revealed what many already knew - that our election season was not just about disagreement, but also about seeing each other as polar opposites. The rhetoric and ideology of our polarization not only pitted one side against another, but it also framed the divide as good against evil.

For many, this had been the frame for many years.

Students of history are well aware that this “iframe” is actually a consistent one in our political discourse The Civil War itself, Populism, Progressivism, the Red Scare, the McCarthy hearings, the 60s, the 80s – these have all been moments in our political history when it seemed as if the forces of evil were pitted against the forces of good.

For each side in this battle you could say it was either a foreign, liberal evil pitted against an American good, while the

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In Search of the Center

corollary would say an extreme, nativist, nationalism was pitted against a liberal communitarian good.

In the Jewish community, we often use the lessons of the Holocaust to frame how we see this battle. We all speak about Nazi Germany as the case study for the rise of fascism, the use of propaganda, and the scapegoating of “the other.”

In our modern Jewish world, however, there is no agreement on which of our political groupings is the exemplar and legacy of the Nazi era. For many of us, it is the people in the other group who are the fascists.

Because our community does often rely on the lessons of the Holocaust, we are also very sensitive to times when a leader engages in rhetoric or proposes policies that bring those times into stark contrast with our modern life as a diaspora community.

This is to simply say that even many of my conservative friends admit that President Trump is not their ideal candidate nor their ideal model of leadership – and that yes, he does often engage in such rhetoric.

Many Federations have felt compelled to make note of this in the most respectful of ways. But honestly, the more important point here is not what one man says or believes – but what the people who support him say and believe. And I do not mean that as a critique of them – because this President was so much more than his problematic rhetoric.

If those who voted against the current President do not acknowledge the down ticket success of the GOP and take to heart their complaints about the left or the far left – we will have missed any opportunity to find that elusive center.

On the flip side of that coin, I would ask my conservative friends and colleagues to see if there is any way to disagree with the left or the Democratic party without demonizing it. As this article is being written, the President just retweeted a tweet from the Dean of Virginia Wesleyan University who wrote “anyone who chose Biden for president is ‘ignorant, antiAmerican, and anti-Christian.’”

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I will likely never change this person’s mind, nor will my articles have any impact on him or anyone who thinks similarly. But I don’t believe this point of view should be the focus of our hard work ahead.

I have always believed that our country is made up of fringes and centers. At times of great turmoil, the fringes are amplified and overshadow the well-meaning people at the center – this author’s version of the silent majority.

I do believe there were times when fewer differences existed between left and right - when it was just a matter of how much people would be taxed and not that taxes were evil.

When it was a matter of how much to spend on healing the environment, not that the environment was just fine. When it seemed that immigrants were a valuable and necessary part of our society – but that we should clearly have a transparent process and limits.

This seems to be the conservative party of John McCain and the Democratic Party of Tip O’Neill. But those subtle differences clearly were not enough to bring out the fringes of each party enough to sway elections. And so – our polarization became entrenched.

But if we believe the movement that elected Donald Trump was all about racism and white supremacy, we would

be making a very big mistake. Just as it would also be a mistake to say those fringe voices were not emboldened. Similarly, to say the Democratic party is the party of Marxists, communists, and the radical left is a mistake. But to say there isn’t a farleft message that millions of people in this country do not relate to – this would also be a mistake.

The question is whether there is any desire to admit that these fringe opinions of each other have driven us to this polarization. Our choice is about whether we choose to even find value in the center?

Do enough of us see that our community and our country may be a better one with less passionate extremism and more moderate compromise? Isn’t this the kind of compromise we celebrate and encourage in other countries?

Speaking of other countries, this polarization clearly applies to the American Jewish community’s view of Israel as well.

Over the centuries, the Jewish community has done a very good job at debating Torah. But when it comes to debating Israel, we don’t seem to have the same tolerance for divergent points of view.

It is no longer about a slight difference of policy from one candidate to the other – but that one is the best there has ever been on Israel and the other will lead to In Search. More on next page www.JewishRichmond.org

In Search of the Center Continued from page 6

to Israel’s destruction. Is this not another example of the fringe driving the debate - the tail wagging the dog?

What is ironic is that one of the things criticized most about the Palestinian leadership is their “maximalist” positions.

To want everything or nothing is said to be unreasonable and unproductive.

So, what about how our candidates and parties must view Israel? Do they have the luxury afforded to the Israeli public – to hold positions that include critique, candor, and vigorous debate – but always with an unbending support for the country itself ?

Both parties will be and should always be vigilant of anti-Israel based anti-Semitism. But is there a way for us to return to a time when bi-partisan support for Israel was seen as of prime importance? That will be the question we will have to answer in the months and

www.JewishRichmond.org

years to come.

And in terms of the larger work for our community – and the country – we must admit the work ahead is a noble endeavor that acknowledges and appreciates the interests and needs of the other side.

And as we recognize that – as our founding fathers and mothers did – we must also stand vigilant against an extremism and vitriol that could permanently damage our democracy and our future.

I would simply ask that if any of this work seems right and just, that you see the value in working toward a louder and stronger center. And if you do – then this is the work that needs more adherents, followers, and friends.

Will you join us?

Feel free to reach out to me at dcohen@jewishrichmond.org.

You’ve Got A Friend With the Reflector

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ou rely on your friends to provide you with information that you can trust. The Reflector has served Richmond's Jewish Community for more than a half a century and is one of those friends.

The Reflector provides pertinent information about everything from local agency developments, meetings, Synagogue and organization news to major events in the area, in Israel and around the world.

A true friend, The Reflector provides a synopsis of what is happening in the region and the people who are making things happen in Jewish Richmond.

And during the past eight months, we have tried to keep the community abreast of key developments of our “frontliners” and much more. The Reflector serves as that valuable resource to stay connected with your Jewish community.

Unfortunately ad revenues are down this year due to COVID-19 and an annual JCFR allocation only takes care of some of the expenses to produce the monthly newspaper. So, we rely on our Friends for help.

Please see the enclosed remittance envelope in the centerspread; complete the form on the envelope and return it to us with your contribution.

Thank you for being a Friend!

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector | 7

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Weinstein JCC Happenings

Weinstein JCC Preschool Early Childhood educators are my heroes Reflections from Donna Peters, Early Childhood Director “When I was very young, most of my childhood heroes wore capes, flew through the air, or picked up buildings with one arm. They were spectacular and got a lot of attention. But as I grew, my heroes changed, so that now I can honestly say that anyone who does anything to help a child is a hero to me.” -Fred Rogers wholeheartedly agree with this statement. Now more than ever during these challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, I see the power and value of the incredible Early Childhood faculty at the Weinstein JCC Preschool.

Everyday rain or shine they come to work and play with their children armed with enthusiasm, dedication, and resilience. They thoughtfully plan and promote activities and environments to encourage interest, wonder, learning, skill building, and exploration.

The teachers and children spend long stretches of time during the preschool day outdoors.

Rainy weather doesn’t stop them.

The children are fortunate to experience the natural world in all kinds of weather, experiencing first-hand how weather affects natural elements and the world around them.

A puddle of water provides a child with the thrill of jumping right in; rainboots allow the freedom to splash over and over againand even better is the joy of walking barefoot in water and mud.

This is pure delight to a child!

There are many splendid areas of natural spaces on our property that offer children a multitude of opportunities to investigate, take risks, challenge themselves, collaborate together, problem-solve and most importantly, play joyfully and freely!

Barb Gregory, a new teacher to our program, teaches four-yearold’s and eloquently shared her thoughts about her experience so far.

“The nature space is the invitation! The children find things to do and explore. From climbing trees,

Early Childhood Director Donna Peters (right) happily greets children and parents arriving on a recent morning along with Erin Cole, (left), Early Childhood administrative assistant, during wellness screenings prior to each child’s entry into preschool in the morning.

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Weinstein JCC Photos

ABOVE & RIGHT - Children and teachers enjoy exploring the natural world together no matter rain or shine at the Weinstein JCC’s reimagined preschool program.

balancing on logs, rich imaginary play, stomping in puddles and mud, exploring the properties of water, writing and drawing in sand and dirt with sticks or their fingers, to picking berries and finding natural treasures to save and bring back to the classroom,” said Barb.

“With these experiences readily available and enjoyed, gross and fine motor skills are naturally embedded in the children’s play. I love seeing how the children are so much more engaged with the outdoor environments. Each nature space lends itself to another kind of play and we are able to watch play evolve after each return visit to these spaces.”

She continued, “The children build upon their play experiences every day. I am enjoying teaching in this rich natural environment and look forward to seeing how the children’s play evolves as the seasons and weather change.”

Barb’s experiences and sentiments are shared with the rest of

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the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

our faculty. They bundle up in their raingear along with the children and off they go to experience whatever waits for them outside! I am continually amazed as I watch the teachers and children playing so joyfully outside in the rain…it is a privilege to witness their delight!

Our educators are my heroes.

Their dedication to our program’s philosophy and vision is extraordinary. They are the ones on the frontlines, they are the main reason we have been so successful in our post COVID-19 re-opening.

The EC faculty continue to meet regularly together to debrief, share, and reflect on what we are seeing and learning about our children and ourselves during this challenging time.

We discuss what we are observing and spend intentional time reflecting on the unforeseen silver linings caused by the new protocols and guidelines we must adhere to under the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are real consequences that

we have seen and experienced.

The power of resiliency, flexibility, imagination and reimagining, taking risks … trying something outside the box leads to new possibilities, more creativity, purposeful collaboration, clearer vision and beliefs about early childhood development and our role and responsibility in it.

We are tasked with balancing what we know and are learning, while doing our best to meet our children and parents’ needs.

It is an exciting, sometimes unnerving, yet always uplifting journey we are on-and we are excited and honored to be on this shared journey with

our dedicated educators and families!

For more information about the Weinstein JCC Preschool program, contact Early Childhood Director, Donna Peters, at 545-8617 or dpeters@ weinsteinjcc.org or go to weinsteinjcc.org.

The Weinstein JCC is supported, in part, by a generous annual contribution, programming grants and COVID-19 Crisis Relief Funds from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

Editor’s Note: To read more about the early days of pre-school at the Center and some historic photographs, see Pages 14-15.

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Arts + Ideas continues Virtual offerings A

s the temperature drops and the winter months arrive, Arts + Ideas at the Weinstein JCC will continue to utilize a virtual platform to provide entertaining and engaging programs to bring the community together.

On Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m., musical partners, Natan Berenshteyn and Debra Clinton reunite to explore music written specifically for the movies, from past to present, as the first in a series of three “Behind the Music” concerts offered this season.

Sharing the stage will be family members and the “next generation” of musical artists, Dina Berenshteyn, Hanna Clinton and Kendall Wilkinson who, through this experience, have discovered music from different time periods other than their own.

“Music written for movies has a defined texture and purpose that might be different than popular music,” said Jewish Family Theatre Artistic Director Debra Clinton. “What is interesting is how many of those songs worked their way into popular culture and became part of the classic songbook over time.” Tickets are $20 per household and can be purchased online at weinsteinjcc.org.

There are two “Sip & Learn” events during the winter months. On Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m., Weinstein JCC is excited to bring the hosts of Tablet Magazine’s very popular Jewish podcast, Unorthodox, to the Zoom stage. Stephanie Butnick, Leil Liebovitz, and Mark Oppenheimer will discuss the deeply knowing, highly entertaining and just a bit irreverent book, “The Newish Jewish Encyclopedia.”

This “unputdownable” encyclopedia of all things Jewish and Jew-ish covers culture, religion, history, habits, language and more. “Sip” a glass of your favorite beverage along with others to learn how the Jews invented Hollywood, why you need to read Hannah Arendt, watch “Seinfeld” and listen to Leonard Cohen. Even discover the secret of happiness (see “Latkes”).Virtual tickets are $10 per household and can be purchased at weinsteinjcc.org.

On Thursday, Jan. 7 at 5 p.m., Arts + Ideas “Sip & Learn Series” will host BBC News Website Middle East Editor and author, Raffi Berg, who will discuss his book, “Red Sea Spies: The True Story of Mossad’s Fake Diving Resort.” Berg will be joined

by Mossad commander, Dani Limor, who carried out the mission, found the famed resort and recruited the team involved, will share his first-hand account. The main character of the Netflix film, “Deep Sea Diving Resort,” is based on Dani Limor.

So, find time to watch the Netflix film, read Raffi’s book, and then join others for an incredibly fascinating discussion about real-life espionage!

What better time to snuggle up and watch a movie than during the month of January? Weinstein Properties presents the Weinstein JCC’s annual Israeli Film Festival that will take place throughout the month.

This year’s totally virtual film festival lets viewers experience Israeli society and culture from the comfort of their own homes. Viewers will have the opportunity to screen a wide array of films and take part in conversations with actors, filmmakers and subject-matter experts. A full schedule of the films and festival programs will be available at weinsteinjcc.org. A sneak-peek includes Ophir Award nominee for Best Picture, “Here We Are,” Dani Menkin film, “Aulcie,” and documentary film, “The Shooting Life.”

For more information about Arts + Ideas events, contact Cultural Arts Director Leslie McGuigan, at lmcguigan@weinsteinjcc.org or 804-545-8644. www.JewishRichmond.org

Weinstein JCC Happenings

1903 Staples Mill Road

Near the corner of Broad & Staples Mill!

804-477-6216 thegreektavernarva.com

Wishing you and your family a happy Hanukkah!

Add meaning to your Menorah with the Chanukah Pop Up Shop

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et ready for the Festival of Lights with the Weinstein JCC’s Chanukah Pop Up Shop!

Between Dec. 2-10, the Weinstein JCC will be offering a variety of your Chanukah must-haves: candles, gelt, gift wrap, plastic Dreidels, games and more. You can even add more meaning to your Menorah with the purchase of Candles for a Cause in support of the Autism Society and Sharsheret (breast and ovarian cancer support services).

Visit the Richard A. Arenstein Lobby anytime during Weinstein JCC business hours to shop.

CDC and VDH guidelines will be observed including masks and social distanc-

ing. All visitors will be required to complete a COVID-19 health screening upon arrival that consists of a temperature check and questionnaire.

Questions? Contact Events and Rentals Manager Jennifer Adams, at jadams@weinsteinjcc.org.

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Weinstein JCC Happenings

5400 Club December programs T he 5400 Club at the Weinstein JCC meets virtually on Mondays from 12:251:30 p.m. A Zoom meeting registration link will be emailed to members the Friday before each meeting.

For questions? Contact Shari Menlowe-Barck at sbarck@weinsteinjcc.org or (804) 545-8611.

December Scheduled Programs Dec. 7 - Dr. Sandra Treadway, Library of Virginia, “The Women’s Suffrage Movement.”

Dec. 14 - Enrich For Life: Special Chanukah Celebration with several surprises.

Speaker Dr. Stephen Long, University of

RIGHT AND BELOW Weinstein JCC youth enjoy making a variety of art projects to share their gratitude and spread kindness. Weinstein JCC Photos

Richmond, “Global Outlook 2021.”

Dec. 21 - Daniel Chertoff, “Palestine Posts: An Eyewitness Account of the Birth of Israel Dec. 28 - Shoshana Schechter, Jewish educator, “The Secrets Behind the Real Macabees and the Hannukah Story : An Academic and Historical Approach.”

Note: The programs and speakers listed are scheduled at Reflector press time. Any changes to the speakers/programs will be communicated to members.

Youth and Family programs put awareness into action On the Court with Jr. NBA

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bined a shared meal, meaningful discussions, and gym activities that represented an interactive experience that also reinforced the values of Tikkun Olam and allowed the children to know the power they possess and what can happen when they come together with a shared mission of giving back. The department’s mission will continue this December as the children put their awareness into action with intentional Mitzvah projects.

To learn more about Youth and Family programming at the Center, contact Youth and Family Engagement Coordinator Rachel Peters at rpeters@weinsteinjcc.org or Director of Youth, Family, Camping and Support Services, Melissa Bunce, at mbunce@weinsteinjcc.org.

he Youth and Family Department is happy to partner with Weinstein JCC’s after-school program, Kids’ Place, to launch a meaningful season of gratitude.

In November, the program hosted a special “Stay Late at the J, Friendsgiving Edition” for the Kids’ Place kids.

This special Friendsgiving focused on fun, community, and collective learning. Based on the staff’s interests, as well as the children’s feedback, children focused on supporting four local agencies that impact the greater Richmond community: Daily Planet Health Services – Safe Haven, Richmond Animal Care and Control, Shalom Farms, and Peter Paul Development Center The evening of learning com-

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r. NBA is a program where children from Preschool-5th grade can focus on the fundamentals of basketball. From dribbling, passing, shooting, lay ups, rebounding, and defense, the program instills teamwork, good sportsmanship, skill development, safety and most importantly, fun!

The start of the season will begin with a skill evaluation to get a sense of each child’s skill level and to make the teams as even as possible. Practices and games will be held weekly on Sundays starting Sunday, Jan. 10 to March 7.

Safety protocols have been put into place for this season, so numbers are limited.

For more information or to register for this program, visit weinsteinjcc.org or contact Sports and Rec Coordinator Aisha Vaughn at avaughn@weinsteinjcc.org.

2nd Annual GDJL a virtual success

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n Sunday, Nov. 8, the Weinstein JCC hosted its second annual Global Day of Jewish Learning (GDJL) in collaboration with community partners, the Richmond Rabbinical Council, Jewish Family Services and Emek Sholom Holocaust Memorial Cemetery. Support was received from the Federation and Richmond Rabbinical Council.

The event happened virtually on Zoom, but did not lack meaningful Jewish connections, engagement and learning. Sixty community members came together to learn from local Rabbis and Jewish educators as they reflected on the timely theme of “Human Dignity.”

This successful program would not have been possible without the leadership

of GDJL event chairs, Susie Adolf, Helen Griffin, Sarah Arenstein Levy and the Weinstein JCC Adult Committee.

The Center is Rabbis and event particilooking forward pants engaged in interesting to continuing dialogue on the Zoom platthis new tradi- form throughout this year’s fully virtual Global Day of tion and gatherJewish Learning. ing again next year for the third annual GDJL! For more information on this event, contact Executive Administrator Victoria Sheridan, at vsheridan@weinsteinjcc.org. www.JewishRichmond.org

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What happened when I joined Jewish VCU

Jewish Community Happenings

By Anya Sczerzenie hroughout my life, whenever the subject of Judaism came up, I always said, “well I’m Jewish… sort of.”

I wasn’t sure whether I was allowed to claim to be Jewish, or whether I was even allowed to feel like I was. Like many people, I was born to a Jewish mother and a non-Jewish father-- both excellent parents.

My dad grew up Catholic, my mom Jewish, but when I and my sister were born they decided to raise us almost entirely non-religious.

The one exception was Hannukah, which we celebrated every winter-alongside a secular Christmas. We went to Passover Seders only a few times. I never had a Bat Mitzvah, but went to both my cousins’.

My first encounter with a Synagogue service was at my oldest cousin’s Bat Mitzvah. When we were at my cousins’ house one time, I mistakenly thought that ‘Kosher’ meant ‘you can’t have cream cheese’ (which was probably the most wrong assumption I’ve ever made) and that my cousins were trying to trick me into eating it to get me in trouble. I vividly remember that I put butter on my bagel that morning.

My mother passed away when I was quite young, so my second time in a Synagogue was at her funeral service. We only went back to that Synagogue once, then never again.

And for years I didn’t really think about my Jewishness at all. I felt left out because a lot of my friends were Catholic, and always talked about youth group and church retreats and getting confirmed. Some of them weren’t exactly excited about those things, but still-- they had them.

When I was a teenager I thought that my lack of a Bat Mitzvah made me a non-valid Jew-- like when you fail to pass

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www.JewishRichmond.org

Anya Sczerzenie Contributed Photo the MCAT so you don’t get to be a doctor.

Fast-forward to my senior year of college, when the pandemic was making normal activities inaccessible for me. I am a journalism major and was looking around campus for someone to interview for a story when I saw the Jewish VCU table. I went up to them just to talk, and ended up signing up for their email list.

I felt sort of sad that I hadn’t jumped on the first opportunity to have Shabbat dinners back when we didn’t all have to sit six feet apart with masks on. I could have been doing that for three years! But freshman year, I didn’t feel like I would have belonged there, so I never took the initiative to join.

I went to the Rosh Hashanah dinner (a holiday I’d only celebrated once before), and immediately realized that not only had some people grown up just like me-- without much Jewish knowledge in their lives-- but no one cared that I didn’t

know anything.

I still got a box with an apple and challah and honey, and I said the blessing along with everyone else, not getting the words exactly right. I was in.

But now what?

I kept going to activities, like Yom Kippur and Sukkot services in the tent in front of the Student Commons. I got free snacks, and met people, and when Chana Friedman (the wife of JewishVCU’s Rbbi) offered to give me Hebrew lessons, I jumped at the chance.

Not only did I want to learn something I’d never learned growing up, but I wanted to learn to read another language. I had tried to do that with French in high school, and I barely remember “je mange une pomme,” so maybe being taught one-on-one would work better for me.

We began lessons on Wednesday mornings, and I learned the letters within about two sessions. The vowels took a few more. Soon, I was reading words. I

didn’t know what they meant, of course, but I could read them.

The lessons began to be something I looked forward to, a social interaction in the time of pandemic and a chance to learn something new. More than that, it was something that belonged to me.

Even though I’d never learned it before, it wasn’t too late to try.

Chana also answered a lot of my questions about things that were not Hebrew letters, like what a lulav is for and why Jewish people omit the ‘o’ from the word G-d. They were things I’d never asked anyone before, but I felt like it was okay to ask questions-- since I was there to learn, anway.

One conversation I had with Chana during a lesson is something I recall very well.

That day, we were reading Hebrew from a prayer book. I was reading the phrase “b’mitz votav” and I stopped.

“My mom always read this like ‘b’mitz vo-sav’” I said. “I remember that from when she read Hanukkah prayers with us when I was really little.”

Chana was surprised that I remembered that. She explained to me that the Hebrew letters ‘sav’ and ‘tav’ can be pronounced the same way. How people pronounce it is often just a matter of what they grew up hearing.

“Okay, let’s read it your mother’s way,” she said when I went back to read over it again.

I went back to the page and kept reading. I couldn’t explain it, but at that moment I felt really connected to something.

Even though I only have one more semester left after this one, I plan to go to as many Jewish VCU events as I can. I wish, of course, that I had joined it three years ago.

But I have learned that it’s never too late to start.

Editors Note: Anya Sczerzenie is a native of Leesburg and is in the Class of 2021 at VCU. She is a staff writer with the school’s Commonwealth Times and a digital journalism major.

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector | 11

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JFS Happenings

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A thirty-year legacy, and only just begun

r. Sydney Fleischer has been a fixture at JFS for more than thirty years.

“Everybody likes to call me the historian,” she said with a wry smile, but she is much more. Lately she’s been trying to pare down her files. Years of accreditation documents, grant applications, and JFS Annual Reports from the early 1900s line Dr. Fleischer’s bookshelf. “It’s showing me the interesting progression that I’ve had here.”

Dr. Fleischer and her husband, Dr. Mike Camp, left the D.C. area to raise their children in quieter, greener Richmond after Dr. Camp retired from the military.

“I was looking for a clinical director job,” Dr. Fleischer said. “I knew pretty much nothing about JFS – I had it confused with some other agency.”

Several organizations offered her positions, but “because I drove to so many tennis practices, I wanted to take the closer job, and I never regretted that move.”

A reflection on her career serves as the most recent chapter of JFS’ long history.

“Right after I got here, suddenly the resettlement effort exploded, and it was quite an explosion. They’d named a few smaller agencies to host Jewish families from the former Soviet Union, and JFS Richmond was one of them. All of a sudden, we were

Dr. Sydney Fleischer JFS Photo resettling 50 new Americans and didn’t have a program yet. Our counseling program did a lot of that work at first. It took over JFS for a while.”

She continued, “During all of this time with my three kids, and my breast cancer, I was also getting my PhD. I wrote papers about the world of nonprofits, and how early nonprofit provided services that the government couldn’t, like how nonprofits used to be responsible for roads. I’ve watched JFS meet the needs of the times and move more quickly than most organizations could.

“When I came, we were a $1 million

agency. And, of course I’m on my fourth CEO” – which seems remarkable, given how long it’s been – “at one point, I even served as the interim CEO for 9 months.”

Dr. Fleischer shook her head and adopted her signature grin. “I didn’t actually want to be the CEO.” Once she starts talking about JFS, she has a hard time stopping. “I think our agency is responsive to the needs of our clients, but also to the needs of the employees. Like for me, after working so many hours for so many years, the ability be flexible is something I’m a strong supporter of, and you can’t find that everywhere. The fact that I could move away from the admin side of JFS but still stay with the clinical side, serving clients directly, has been something so important to me and something JFS has allowed me to do.”

When the conversation turned to her and Dr. Camp’s Life & Legacy commitment, she has just as much to say. “Folks started talking about the Life & Legacy program, and Mike and I started looking at our will. We have legacy gifts planned at JFS, MCV, and Beth Ahabah. Mike likes how Life & Legacy keeps you much more connected to the agency. And, especially for staff, this is a great opportunity to make

a gift if you can.”

She noted, “JFS has been here for an eternity, and it’ll be here for much longer after us. I’ve always liked when funds aren’t restricted and go straight to the agency. I know some people have their favorite projects, but it’s also nice to let the agency decide depending on their needs of the moment.”

Dr. Fleischer flashed her wry smile again when asked about her own legacy.

“It’s really important when you’re our age to feel like you’re relevant – not just that you have work, because that’s not good enough – but that you’re relevant and connected.

Even when I’m telecommuting from Los Angeles, I am grateful to be able to serve my clients. They’re dealing with so much isolation, and we’re an important lifeline to them, and we need to keep that going.”

If you would like to know about about JFS, reach out to Morgan Goad at mgoad@jfsrichmond.org or (804) 282-5644 ext. 231.

Jewish Family Services is supported, in part, by a generous annual contribution, a programming grant to support the Jewish Care Line and COVID-19 Crisis Relief Funds from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

2020: JFS’ Year in Review

JFS staff sporting their cloth face masks on the job.

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10 | the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

Personal Care Aides graduating from JFS’ East End PCA training program. JFS Photos www.JewishRichmond.org

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JFS Happenings

2020: JFS’ Year in Review

CBS 6 anchor Bill Fitzgerald surprises JFS Connecting Hearts’ Program Manager, Denise Wise-David, and JFS’ Chief Impact Officer Becki Mann with a gift after the Virtual Bowling Ball. JFS Photos

Best Wishes for a Happy Hanukkah!

Proudly Serving Richmond Since 1991

JFS interns Helen Kobayashi, Meredith Adams, and Sandra Simon after serving lunch at EnRich for Life.

HOMESTYLE GREEK AND ITALIAN

JFS Director of HR and Volunteer Services, Teresa Baldwin, makes afternoon calls to homebound elders for JFS’ Telephone Reassurance program.

Dine-in seating now available!

Call for take out and curbside pick up!

9068 WEST BROAD STREET

JFS’ Ellen Glass and Sydney Fleischer making a video for the JFS Connecting Hearts’ Virtual Bowling Ball. www.JewishRichmond.org

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector |13

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Jewish Community Happenings

Stan Reitzes: ‘Mr. Center’ for 20 Years Facing the Future ~ Honoring the Past 19 35

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Jewish Community Federation of Richmond 85th Anniversary

(Editor’s note) Stan Reitzes (OBM) was Executive Director of the Jewish Community Center for 20 years – 1957-1977. As the Federation celebrates 85 years of service in Richmond, we are sharing stories on some of the families, individuals and institutions who were and are the soul and legacy of our Jewish community. This is the third article in the series. We appreciate Robin Jackson assisting with conducting interviews, contributing information and writing articles. We also thank Beth Ahabah Museum & Archives for providing archival information as well as photographs.

By Skip Kozakewicz Reflector Editor tanley J. Reitzes earned his legendary nickname,“Mr. Center,” for his two decades as Executive Director of the Jewish Community Center from 1957-1977 and earlier as Program and Camp Director from 1946-1954.

His lasting impact on the Center and the community is still felt today as noted by many longtime community leaders.

Jay Weinberg, a JCC past president and longtime community leader, remembered Stan Reitzes “as a wonderful human being” in the JCC book, The Center: From Generation to Generation published in 2017. He credited the former Executive Director with getting him and so many others involved in the JCC and the Jewish community at large.

“You always felt he was your friend,” noted longtime community leader Richard November recently who served as JCC preident from 1976-78. “His kind and gentle approach touched us all. His greatest accomplishment, and there were many, was his constant ability to develop new and competent lay leadership in the community. The people who were involved during Stan’s years here were outstanding and a real credit to Stan for his mentorship.”

Richard related how he worked closely with Stan for many years particularly with the development of Camp Hilbert in Goochland County.

“He was just a kind and dedicated person. His family, of course, was number one, but the Center was right up there as his priority. He was so creative too.”

Richard also recalled how Stan developed and expanded so many programs for senior citizens such as the Grand Group and innovative programs for many other age groups.

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14| the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

(From left) Stanley Reitzes receives a special gift from Neil November during a retirement dinner in 1977 at a packed house of community members at the JCC. BAMA Photo

“Charlotte also was such a tremendous asset to the community as a nursery school teacher and at Camp Hilbert. She was always by his side assisting with many details and projects,” said Richard.

“People just wanted to work with Stan. Much of his philosophy has continued at the Center, which is remarkable.

His legacy is his leadership and personality.”

Another longtime community leader and past JCC President Cathy Plotkin (1986-1988), captured the essence of Stan’s impact on the community in a June 15, 1997, front page Reflector Editorial on the passing of Mr. Reitzes, titled Cultivator of Community.

“Stan Reitzes, more than any other individual, engineered the transformation of that Agency from neighborhood house to the community center. He made it a home away from home for youngsters, a haven for caring for active seniors, a recreational center for people of all ages ...”

Cathy Plotkin, who first met Stan as her Religious School teacher, continued in her Editorial, “He saw talent and ability in everyone and found a spot that was a perfect match for whatever skill each might have.”

Stan and Charlotte Reitzes had an early active and productive Jewish communal career before coming to Richmond recalled their son, Allan Reitzes.

“My parents first met at the YMHA in Mt. Vernon, New York. That’s where it all began. They both got involved in the Jewish community there.”

His father had an undergraduate degree from the New York Agricultural College in landscape architecture. It was during the depression, and his father received a scholarship to play basketball and football at the college.

“And he milked 100 cows every morning while at the college. A true story.”

Stan’s first job was as a landscape architect for Temple Emanuel in New York. But, as his son explained, the start of WWII changed his father’s career quickly. Stan had a visual impairment and could not serve, but still wanted to serve the country.

“So Dad starting working for the USO/JWB and Dad and Mom moved to Alexandria, Louisiana, taking care of Jewish troops while stationed at Fort Polk.”

He noted, “Dad was responsible for the Jewish troops in Louisiana/Texas. Both my father and mother were significant to the Jewish troops stationed there, and I believe at the time, Fort Polk, was the largest U.S. Army base. ” From there Stan and Charlotte and new son, Allan, went to Fort Lee, Va., where Stan served in the same USO role as in Louisiana - serving Jewish troops.

The family now totaling four with younger brother, Dick, lived in Petersburg while his father was at Fort Lee. He next was hired as the Program Director at the JCC then located on Grove Avenue in Richmond in a former church. He also served as Camp Director at Camp Hilbert, then in Chesterfield.

“He commuted daily to Richmond for that job and also was going for his master’s in Social Work at what was then RPI in Richmond. My mom soon became a preschool teacher at the Center. She also went back to RPI to complete a degree in Early Childhood Education.

In 1946, Stan next became Executive Director for the JCC Stan Reitzes More on next page www.JewishRichmond.org

The retired JCC Pre-school teachers gather for a photo in 1996 (Top row/ from left) Marilyn Radow, Hilda Rosenzweig (Altbush), Shirley Arenstein, Jena Sager and, Mary Cantor; (Bottom) Charlotte Reitzes, Harriet Goodman, Rose Luterman and Harriet Lapkin. Jena Sager Photo

in Camden, N.J. “He built the Center,” Allan Reitzes noted.

The Camden JCC at the time was housed in an old building when he arrived and Stan led a successful community capital fund to build a new building. This attracted the attention of other Jewish communities as expected.

Since he was well-known to the Richmond leadership, he became a unanimous choice to become the JCC Executive Director in Richmond in 1957 when Jack Marash announced he was leaving the position to move to New York to work with the American Jewish Congress.

“His (Stan’s) proven experience and professional training reflect his ability to serve the needs of the community in a commendable manner,” said an article in the Reflector.

When the family of four moved back to Richmond in June 1957 for Stan’s new position, they lived in a house at the original Camp Hilbert in Chesterfield County where Stan also served as Camp Director and Charlotte was the dietician.

“I didn’t have to take a bus to camp,” said Allan Reitzes.

“Growing up in Richmond and in the heart of Jewish community was a great place. I am still good friends with two guys I grew up with. I essentially followed in my father’s footsteps. He was my model, and I learned from him how to work as a professional in the Jewish community. I was fortunate to have almost every little job you can imagine at the JCC.” Allan Reitzes was a basket room attendant to a game room attendant and much more, and taught swimming at the Center while going to college at RPI before serving in the Army. www.JewishRichmond.org

Allan Reitzes had a long career in leadership positons in Jewish communal service at several JCC’s and later at large Jewish agencies in Canada and Israel.

“Meeting all the people who became leaders in the Jewish community over the years was an instrumental learning experience for me,” related Allan Reitzes.

One of these leaders was Neil November (OBM) who was president of the JCC from 196467, and later chaired the Israel Showcase, considered the greatest event ever held at the Center.

Stan Reitzes played a big part behind the scenes guiding Neil November and dozens and dozens of other community leaders and volunteers in this huge undertaken.

In remarks eight years earlier during Stanley Reitzes Appreciation Day on Oct. 4, 1964, Neil November said, “They had come here as a young couple, raised a family, and became an integral part of all of our lives.”

He continued, “They devoted an unusually great amount of their time and energy to the youth of our community, and, of course, led us in the development of our Center. It is almost impossible not to associate Stan with the Center, and Center with Stan.”

In organizing Stanley Reitzes Appreciation Day, the chairman, Eric Lipman, remarked at the time in the Reflector. “This is a grass-roots movement. For a long time, there has been increasing interest in the Community in letting Stan know how much his services are valued. He has come to be known as ‘Mr. Center” in many phases of the life of our city.”

Equally important to the Jewish community for many years was Charlotte Reitz-

Stan and Charlotte Reitzes with sons, Dick and Allan, in Petersburg. Allan Reitzes Photo

very appreciative of the initiatives I brought to the JCC.” She also helped with other youth programs and Camp Hilbert.

They all remained friends and kept in touch throughout the years. She and Charlotte were friends socially first before they both taught together.

Another longtime Pre-School teacher, Jena Sager recently recalled her time at the Center with Stan and Charlotte.

“I have very fond memories of knowing Stan Reitzes for many years,” she said. “Stan and I go back to our college years when we both attended RPI at the same time. He was working on his Master’s Degree and I was working on my undergraduate in early childhood education.

“In later years when he was Executive Director of the JCC, I was an advisor to Cohen BBG and Stan would hold monthly dinner meetings for all of the Jewish youth group advisors. I remember cooking spaghetti dinner and having Stan and all of the advisors at my home.

“Charlotte and I taught together at the

es who was a nursery school teacher at the Center for many years. She also held many roles at Camp Hilbert.

“She taught everyone,” said son Allan.

Former Pre-School Director Mary Cantor said recently that she began at the JCC teaching kindergarten (before public schools had kindergarten -- the JCC did) with Charlotte Reitzes and Rose Luterman.

She noted, they team taught and got along very well.

“We each gave of ourselves and our different talents,” said Mary.

She explained that both Charlotte and she switched to 3- year olds. “They are so cute and think their teachers know everything.”

Mary later became the director of the Preschool and also helped start the Kindergarten Enrichment program at the JCC. She was at the JCC preschool almost 25 years.

She knew Stan as a friend before she worked in the preschool and he encouraged her to go to the nursery school at the Center.

“He was great to work with. Stan was

Stan Reitzes More on Page 25

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector | 15

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Beth Sholom Happenings

Beth Sholom Senior Living Annual Meeting B

eth Sholom Senior Living hosted its Virtual 2020 Annual Meeting, “A Year In Review” on Sunday, Oct. 25.

The meeting was presented virtually to a “room full” of guests!

Jonathan Joseph, outgoing chairperson, gave a warm welcome. He then introduced Rabbi Randi Nagel, who presented a heartwarming opening prayer followed by a musical performance

by Jody Smith, Life Enrichment team member at Beth Sholom.

She serenaded all with “Hatikvah” and the National Anthem.

The event marked the end of Jonathan Joseph’s 2-year term as the board chairperson for Beth Sholom.

At this meeting, Ellen Renee Adams, president of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, performed the installation of the new Chairperson Janet Gale, along with the other officers, Ben Humphreys, Vice Chairperson/Treasurer; Stanley Ullman, Secretary; Morris Funk, Chief Executive Officer; and new Board member Melissa Brownstein.

Janet Gale has been a member of the Beth Sholom Board since 2014. She also served on the Board of Circle Center Adult Day Services and on the Development Committee of the Greater Richmond Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

In addition, she has a certificate in gerontology through the American Society of Aging.

Janet currently is the director of Extended Care Marketing for McKesson Medical-Surgical.

Incoming Board Member

Janet Gale Beth Sholom Photos

Melissa Brownstein

“Employee of the Year,” Samantha Goodman, with CEO Mo Funk.

Melissa Brownstein, is an active volunteer at Beth Sholom.

In addition to her involvement with many events, for the last 2 years she has served on Beth Sholom’s Mah Jong Madness Committee. Welcome to the Board Melissa!

CEO Morris “Mo” Funk, closed the meeting with an emotional “Year In Review.” He illustrated what life has been like for the Beth Sholom Senior Living Community since COVID-19 descended upon us.

He extended his utmost gratitude to the Beth Sholom Team, the Board of Directors, residents, families, and the Community for their hard work and endless support!

Other Beth Sholom News Beth Sholom recently announced the 2020 employee honors. Samantha or “Sam” Goodman, director of Life Enrichment,

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16| the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

has been awarded Beth Sholom’s “Employee of the Year” for her hard work and dedication to Beth Sholom Senior Living and our residents and family members.

Patti Patrus, office assistant at The Woods Independent Apartments, was awarded “Rookie of the Year” for her “can do” attitude with a smile.

Patti is always willing to lend a helping hand when called upon!

Congratulations and thank you, Sam and Patti!

We are pleased to welcome Jamie Agee, admissions and marketing coordinator, to the Beth Sholom Team!

Jamie comes to Beth Sholom with a wide range of experience and talents. She is a graduate of James Madison University and an accomplished violinist. Acclaimed for “playing with the heart and

“Rookie of the Year,” Patti Patrus, with CEO Mo Funk.

Jamie Agee, the new Beth Sholom admissions and marketing coordinator, is an accomplished violinist.

soul of a virtuoso,” we’re looking forward to working with Jamie and hearing her play!

Beth Sholom’s Lunch & Learn virtual event, “Living with Dementia During COVID-19” on Nov. 10 was well attended.

Presenter, Michael Skrajner, the director of Research and Innovation at the Hearthstone Institute, discussed how COVID-19 has changed all of our lives, especially those living with dementia and offered many useful tips for family members and caregivers.

Beth Sholom is a certified Memory Care Center of Excellence for the Hearthstone Institute’s I’m Still Here® approach to dementia, the only program of its kind in Virginia.

If you were unable to join us for this event, see his video on the

main page of our website: www.bethsholomliving.org.

In keeping with the tradition Beth Sholom’s CEO, Morris “Mo” Funk, started shortly after arriving in 2018, all team members on campus will receive a holiday turkey to share with their family.

Over 300 turkeys will be distributed! This was made possible through generous donations from the community.

Thank you to all!

For more about Beth Sholom. email communications@bslcc.org..

We hope you can join us!

Beth Sholom Senior Living is supported, in part, by a generous annual contribution, programming grants and COVID-19 Crisis Relief Funds from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.

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Beth Sholom Happenings Beth Sholom and Generations Home Health Proudly Serving the Richmond Community Generations Home Health provides in-home skilled medical care and personal care designed to competently meet important needs of our neighbors. Whether you are recovering from illness or injury, managing a chronic disease, or simply trying to improve your quality of life in retirement, Generations has the multi-disciplinary team that can ensure you achieve optimal health outcomes while in the comfort of your own home.

For more information contact us at (804) 421-5270.

Generations Home Health is jointly owned and operated

by Beth Sholom in Richmond and Beth Sholom Village in Virginia Beach.

Beth Sholom’s mission is to provide quality and comprehensive residential, health care and community-based services to individuals of all faiths, in a manner that reflects our Jewish traditions and values.

For information call us at (804) 750-2183 or visit us online at bethsholomliving.com.

Beth Sholom wishes you a safe and Happy Hanukkah Gardens Assisted Living & Memory Care Parkside Assisted Living & Memory Care Woods Apartment Living The Healthcare Center Rehabilitation, Skilled & Long Term Care Generations Home Health Skilled Home Healthcare

1600 John Rolfe Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238 | www.bethsholomliving.org | 804-750-2183 Hanukkah-Reflector 2020.indd 1

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector | 17

Beth-El Religious School Happenings

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Synagogue Happenings

A “Creation story” scavenger hunt for rainbow colored leaves. Beth-El Photos

By Ramona L. Brand Director of Youth Learning October and November were bustling months for the religious school, both on Zoom and inperson.

Regular Sunday sessions resumed on Oct. 18 and we were all delighted to see each other again in Zom classrooms. Our teachers are amazing and their creativity, energy and care shines through everything they do. In addition to using stimulating visual Zoom friendly teaching tools, teachers will do whatever it take, including delivering supplies to their students’ homes to provide synchronous hands-on activities.

The school has conducted two in-person sessions under strict Covid safety guidelines and will continue to offer opportunities for bringing students and teachers together when recommendations allow.

In October our Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Grade 1 students didn’t let the rain stop them from enjoying a “Creation” scavenger hunt in our Nature Center.

We found a rainbow’s worth of colorful leaves. Then they raced through an obstacle course to find Aleph Bet letters! It was great fun to be together!

In November our teens had a perfect evening to celebrate Havdalah together. After leading a peaceful Havdalah ceremony, the Teen board directed icebreakers and games! The teens are looking forward to celebrating Hanukah together this month.

December Religious School Calendar: Sundays: Dec. 6 and 13 Wednesdays: Dec. 2, 9, 16 Confirmation meets: Dec. 6 Religious School Hanukah Celebration: Sunday, Dec. 13 Hanukah celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in the second century BCE after the Hellenist Syrians had desecrated it.

It is a holiday that also celebrates resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. Not only a re-

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dedication of physical space, Hanukah is also a rededication of the spirit in order to make that space a sacred one.

The Religious will celebrate Hanukah joyously even in the face of our current challenges. With both a virtual and drive-by event we will enjoy holiday light and spirit with our families! The Hanukah party is open to all.

Email Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond.org for Zoom information.

Schedule and Party Info 9-10:30 a.m: Virtual Party on Zoom Storytelling Duo Once Upon A Story with Sandy Ryder and Ramona Brand perform Hershel and the Hanukah Goblins; Breakout rooms - Virtual Dreidel, Kahoots games, Hanukkah Jewpardy, Dance Party room, photo booth and more! Community candle lighting with Rabbi Knopf and Cantor Rosenblatt 11:30 a.m. - noon: Drive By Car Parade and Hanukah Gift pick-up Decorate your car, dress up for Hanukah and be part of the parade! Best car wins a prize!

Meet in the school parking lot to show off your Hanukah spirit and pick up your family gift.

Temple Beth-El Zoom Tot Shabbat Services Saturday, Dec. 5 For families with children age Birth -5 / Open to the entire community December Theme: Hanukkah At 10 a.m., families with children from 0- 5 can enjoy a Shabbat service geared filled with music, stories, movement and more. A musical, meaningful service designed for wiggles.

For more information on any programs, email Ramona at r.brand@bethelrichmond.org.

18| the Reflector| December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

Racing through the obstacle course to get to the Hebrew letters.

Teens enjoying a socially distanced Havdalah.

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Or Atid Religious School news

By Alison Litvin Education Coordinator ecember brings the Festival of Lights, the Hanukkah holiday filled with candle lit Menorahs, dreidels to spin, and Latkes to eat. The Helen and Sam Kornblau Religious School of Or Atid is ready for a Hanukkah celebration like no other; bringing together new and old traditions for a festive holiday season.

Or Atid families will come together on Friday, Dec. 18 to welcome Shabbat in a virtual, Hanukkah-themed service. Lighting the candles via Zoom means everyone is at home, but the spotlight feature allows each family to share their menorah with the congregation.

With songs and games blended with the Friday Night Service, the interactive program offers a new way for families to celebrate Hanukkah online, bringing the community together as classes and families take turns leading the service.

As the first semester comes to a close, teachers, students, and families are excited to continue a favorite tradition with the 3rd annual Latke Cook-Off. Now virtual for the first time, classes will explore various potatopancake recipes from around the world to discover new flavors - and new potential - for the traditional Latke recipe.

Students will break down the Latke recipe by identifying the role each ingredient plays, trying new pairings and flavor profiles to develop their own unique recipes for a new

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Synagogue Happenings

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type of Latke. During the last week of classes, families team up to prepare their Latke recipes at home, sharing and spotlighting their latkes with the school. Family-favorites from previous years include Plantain Latkes with an Avocado Crema, Mozzarella-stuffed Latkes, and the surprisingly delicious S’mores Latkes. Though this year’s Latke Cook-Off may be virtual, families look forward to coming together to test each recipe, and by the end of the cook-off everyone will discover a new favorite latke.

This year’s classroom may be virtual, but that doesn’t limit staff or students from discovering new ways to engage with Jewish holidays and traditions, Israeli culture, Hebrew and Tefillah, and the weekly Parsha.

For more information about the school, and to learn about our approach to distance learning, please contact Education Coordinator Alison Litvin, at relschool@oratid.org, or call Congregation Or Atid at (804) 740 - 4747.

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Happenings at Brith Achim

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ecember is arriving, so Latkes, Dreidels and Menorahs are on our minds at Congregation Brith Achim.

The ongoing pandemic is triggering many Hanukkah-themed Zoom events celebrating the Hebrews defeating the Greeks, to liberate and consecrate The Temple.

November kicked off our NFL collaborative watch parties. On Dec. 5 at 8 p.m., we will ring in the holidays with our first collaborative movie night. Our app-based video watch party will feature a collection of Hanukkah-related videos for all to enjoy.

We supply the movies; you supply the popcorn!

December also features our Zoom Hanukkah party. Congregants are contributing pictures from their own Hanukkah celebrations - of decora-

www.JewishRichmond.org

tions, Menorahs, Latkes, etc. - for a grand “Temple collage” as part of our annual party.

Our festivities, filled with story and song will be on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. Imagine the choruses of “I have a little Dreidel!”

Larry Katz continued our lecture series in November with a discussion of Judaism in China. Along with the theme of “gelt,” Dr. David Goldstein will present “Working with Somebody Else’s Money: Getting and Spending Grants, Contracts and other Fund Sources” on Dec. 24 at 8 p.m..

For information on any of these activities, contact David Goldstein at drdaveg@gmail.com or the Synagogue office at (804) 732-3968. Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy Hannukah from Congregation Brith Achim!

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In Memoriam November 10 took one of the most active and loved members of Richmond’s Jewish community, Congregation Brith Achim’s Helen Gutworth. Helen had been a leader in Hadassah and at Brith Achim for decades. She not only served as an officer in both organizations, but also maintained memberships and taught Hebrew School at other area Synagogues. She will be deeply missed.

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector | 19

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Rabbi Ahuva Zaches speaks at the Annual Richmond Humanitarian Awards Celebration about Or Ami’s partnership with the Interfaith Dialogue Group (The Bon Air Interfaith Trialogue). The Trialogue recently received the Distinguished Merit Award from the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities.

Synagogue Happenings

Or Ami happenings O r Amiens celebrating their first ever Havdalahween hosted by John and Laurie Weinberg.

Everyone attending the Havdalahween had a wonderful time. These days, being around folks we haven’t seen in awhile makes every celebration – no matter how socially distanced, very special.

We are proud to announce that Or Ami, in partnership with the Interfaith Dialogue Group (The Bon Air Interfaith Trialogue) recently received the Distinguished Merit Award from the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities.

This award is for our 15 years of building ties between Jews, Muslims, and Christians. To view the clip on our website, visit https://or-ami.com/interfaith-trialogue/ Or Ami also partners with ReEstablish Richmond and continues to reach out to congregations and local Jewish organizations to provide information on the plight of the world’s refugees, the refugee resettlement process, and how to get involved.

Marilyn Breslow, our congregation’s social action coordinator, spoke at Temple Beth El’s Shabbat services and is available to speak to any group who’d like more information about the refugee’s situation, volunteering, and/or becoming involved in advocacy.

With funding from the Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism, Or Ami was able to purchase instructional materials for refugee adults who want to learn English.

Our youth group filled 100 bags with

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picture dictionaries, workbooks, whiteboards, etc. which will be used by volunteers and students. ReEstablish Richmond provides the training and matches tutors to newcomers who will use these materials as they engage in online learning.

Our virtual Book Club continues to meet. On Jan. 4, the selection, “Wandering Stars,” by Jack Dann, is a sci-fi short story collection, and on Feb. 1, we will discuss “The Lake on Fire,” by Rosellen Brown. Please contact office@ Or-Ami.com for links to these or any other events.

Virtual Shabbat Services are held online Friday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30, and Torah Study is held on Saturdays, from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. in Zoom format.

A Virtual Oneg is hosted following the services by members of Or Ami’s Board. Information about service and Oneg links are provided to those who request it and go out on Friday afternoons.

For more information on any of our programs or to obtain links to zoom events, please contact our office at (804) 272-0017 or office@or-ami.com.

Would you like to know more? Contact us at Belong@Or-Ami.com or check us out at www.Or-Ami.com. You can follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OrAmi-Richmond, or catch us on Twitter@oramirichmond. All inquiries are always welcome.

20 | the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

Or Amiens celebrate at Havdalahween.

Or Ami Teen Youth members work on learning project promote refugees learning

www.JewishRichmond.org

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10:15|AM 21 December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 |the 11/12/20 Reflector

Beth Ahabah Happenings B efore COVID 19, Beth Ahabah’s youth groups were active. Monthly events were garnering increased participation, and BATTY, Beth Ahabah’s Teens and Temple Youth, was growing.

The pandemic had every opportunity to slow momentum down, but the new challenge of staying socially distant brought innovation and access to the BATTY program that has expanded reach and brought in more active members than ever.

When social distancing measures began in March, BATTY went virtual. Youth from over 50y households logged into weekly Zoom hangouts with each of our BATTY (Teen), BATTY Middle, and BATTY Jr. groups.

The Zoom Hangout activity varied each week. Between cooking, art, science, games and movies, there was something for everyone, but most agree that the optional hour of unstructured conversation after the activity was the most meaningful.

BATTY gave youth and teens the space to share and reflect on what they were feeling in real time, and the bonds between our kids strengthened. The friendships and connections built during the weekly hangout have set the tone for BATTY moving forward and pushed the limits of what we thought was possible.

During the summer, BATTY launched their first Teen Board in years. Rising tenth, eleventh and twelfth graders applied to be part of the leadership team that would drive the culture and direction of the program.

Based on the Reform Movement’s NFTY model, four board positions (President, Vice President of Communications and Membership, Social Action Chair and Religious and Cultural Chair) were filled by dedicated, active teens with over 49 years at Beth Ahabah collectively.

The BATTY Teen Board has had huge goals for the Teen program. Having institutional knowledge and understanding of Beth Ahabah’s campus, the Board reimagined our outdoor spaces to accommodate socially distant in-person events.

In September, BATTY hosted the Congregation’s first movie night on the parking deck roof. Over 25 teens brought their own chairs, snacks, and masks to our showing of the new live-action “Mulan” – just hours after its digital

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Synagogue Happenings

premiere.

The parking deck was reinvented again in October and converted to a socially-distant outdoor studio where teens competed in BATTY’s first annual Pumpkin Carving contest.

A nod to both Sukkot and Halloween, teens celebrated with music, great conversation, and artistic expression. Prizes were given for the most creative design, the fan favorite, and numerous other superlatives designed by the Board. Completely a teen-led program, the first place prize winner earned a bag full of pumpkin guts to freely throw at the BATTY Board President.

As the weather gets colder, BATTY events will move to virtual platforms this winter, but the impact of seeing other youth in person at Beth Ahabah has been monumental.

The BATTY Board is looking at innovative ways to continue to come together safely, rain or shine, and is excited to launch their Spring program this December.

All Richmond-area teens are welcome at BATTY events. Visit our Community page at www.BethAhabah.org for more information.

For more information on Beth Ahabah, call (804) 358-6757 or visit www.bethahabah.org BATTY teens compete in a Pumpkin Carving Contest on the parking deck in one event and for another, watch “Mulan” during a movie night on the parking deck. Beth Ahabah Photos

22 | the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Jewish Community Happenings

These are just a few of the items desperately needed by Beth Sholom Woods Food Pantry and the Weinstein JCC Elmer Toth Food Pantry. JCFR Photo

Food Pantry and Elmer Toth needs

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s the COVID-19 pandemic continues with much uncertainty, there is a vital need for food and other items for many in our community.

The Beth Sholom Woods Food Pantry and Weinstein JCC Elmer Toth Food Pantry, a FeedMore agency, are in desperate need of a number of everyday items.

The following items are needed.

• • • • • • • • •

Soup Paper Products (Toilet Tissue, Paper Towels, Tissues, Napkins) Cleaning products (Dish Soap, Wipes, Detergent) Canned Fruit Canned Tuna Canned Salmon Canned Chicken Cereal Coffee

If you would like to donate to Beth Sholom Woods Food Pantry, call (804) 741-4691 prior to dropping off. To donate to the Weinstein JCC Elmer Toth Food Pantry, call (804) 545-8611 prior to dropping off. For general information, contact Sara Rosenbaum at the JCFR at srosenbaum@jewishrichmond.org.

Thank you for helping those in need in our community.

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 |the Reflector | 23

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Jewish Community Happenings

Dr. Limor Glazer Schwam relates a story about the Holocaust and lasting impact on her mother.

Capt. Alex Keisch delivers welcome remarks.

Federation CEO Daniel Staffenberg delivers keynote address.

Photos by Rachel Loria

2020 Kristallnacht Remembrance Service We come together

By Lenora “Cookie” Solodar Co-president Emek Sholom Holocaust Memorial Cemetery he annual Emek Sholom Holocaust Memorial Cemetery Kristallnacht Remembrance Ceremony, sponsored by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, was held on Sunday Nov. 8.

This year a virtual presentation was added due to COVID-19 with over 120 attendees online and in-person. Once again American Legion Post 144 provided the color guard, ushers and a bugler.

Jay Ipson and his grandson, Ben, called the assembly to order with the blowing of the Shofars. Cantor Dara Sage Rosenblatt of Temple Beth-El chanted the El Malei Rachamim, praying that the souls of those lost be granted proper rest.

Capt. Alex Keisch, vice-president of the cemetery, organized and presided over the program and forcefully reminded all to resolve to NEVER AGAIN tolerate brutality, torture or inhumanity.

Community member Dr. Limor Glazer Schwam delivered a powerful and heartwarming message imploring all to keep the stories of the Holocaust alive, to educate all people and to treat everyone as if they were family. In sharing the horror of her father’s and mother’s journey to America, she told us that seven pages

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of “Glazers” are listed among the dead at Auschwitz.

Her father, a toddler at the time and his family, were able to escape to Israel. Her mother, who is alive and well and living in Richmond, was a baby in Romania in 1938. She survived living in fear in hiding. Glazer-Schwams’s mother has held the terror she experienced as a child inside for her 81 years; even today she is fearful of those who would harm Jews.

Rudy Rochman, a Jewish and Israel rights activist, spoke to the Zoom participants from Bulgaria. Rochman, only 27 years old, is followed extensively on social media for his Pro -Israel stances. In his remarks, he described his personal family history and its ties to the Holocaust.

His message of never forgetting the Holocaust is one that he delivers to college campuses worldwide.

Our keynote speaker, Daniel “Danny” Staffenberg, CEO of the JCFR of Richmond, spoke to the in-person and virtual attendees of the Nazi’s desire to destroy Judaism—”to wipe it off the map.”

The Federation leader noted, “And yet here we are today, Jews and Gentiles, hand- in-hand.

That is a testament to their failure.” Staffenberg also stressed that Jews are a people of a community; that we are all created in the image of G-d. He completed his remarks by reminding all, “We are all responsible for one another. We

24 | the Reflector | December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

A Color Guard at the observance.

don’t always have to agree, but we have to be there together. We will always stand together and honor the lives we lost on Kristallnacht and the six million more we lost in the years to come.”

The annual Esther J. Windmueller Never Again Award was presented to Anza Fierro, a sophomore at The Steward School.

Her winning essay titled, “Never Again,” was written as part of her Honors World Literature class.

The second place winner was Callan Hartman, also from The Stew-

ard School.

Kristallnacht Remembrance concluded with Ben Kutner, copresident of Emek Sholom, leading the Kaddish prayer. Immediately following, each person was invited to place a stone for those whose names are on the memorial, the six million martyrs, and all others who have died because they were Jewish.

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Hadassah Happenings

8 Nights: Hadassah Richmond NO SHOW Hanukkah

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s Richmond families light their Menorahs and celebrate the joy of Hanukkah, join us virtually to kindle our Menorahs together. Every night during Hanukkah, local families will share their traditions and what Hadassah means to them.

As we light our candles, you can make miracles happen by donating to the lifesaving work of Hadassah. Our financial support today can be part of our modernday miracle- finding cures for the diseases plaguing our world.

Every night during Hanukkah, local families will share their traditions and what Hadassah means to them. Check your email nightly (Dec. 10-17) to join your friends and have an opportunity to make more miracles happen.

If you do not receive the Richmond Hadassah Happenings email, please contact Rebecca Young at Rebecca.a.young@gmail. com to get on the list. Invite your family and friends to join in as well. To donate each night, type in https://bit.ly/2GU76pg or click on the link in the nightly email.

Stan Reitzes Continued from page 15

JCC preschool for many years. I remember her being wonderful with the kids and always showing that she really cared about them. I can still picture Stan with his ever-present big smile on his face.”

Jena Sager noted, “He was very easy to talk to and welcomed all questions and suggestions. Though he was the Executive Director, he always made you feel like you were just talking to a dear friend.”

His impact touched so many in his time in the Richmond community.

When returning to the community as Executive Director in 1957, he helped galvanize the program details for the new center on Monument Avenue that was under construction, partnering with many community leaders. Visits to the site by Stan were www.JewishRichmond.org

Hadassah research and development cannot stop even when we cannot join together in traditional fundraising events.

Hadassah is actively conducting research on COVID-19, stem cells, cancer, cardiac diseases and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. There are many medical breakthroughs happening at Hadassah Medical Organization in Israel.

For more information about this and other programs, find us online at www.hadassah.org/richmond or www.facebook.com/richmondhadassah HADASSAH RICHMONDA COMMUNITY OF WOMEN WHO DO.

2021 MAH JONGG Cards Hadassah Richmond is taking orders for 2021 Mah Jongg cards.

While we haven’t gotten to play much with this year’s card, hopefully next year we will all be back together playing!

Cards are $9 for the standard size, and $10 for the large ones, and Hadassah ben-

several times daily, many recall.

Richard November noted that Stan was a driving force during a $660,000 fund drive in 1966 to add a nursery school and auditorium to the Center. At the time, this was a record fundraising drive for the Center, surpassing the original one more than 10 years earlier.

He also credits Stan for leading a major effort years later for a new Camp Hilbert in Goochland County. The Chesterfield site had suffered severe flooding damage from Hurricane Camille in 1969.

Cabins were displaced and the main house and pool were severely damaged. Camp continued but Stan knew that a new location was needed.

“I remember working with him closely after the hurricane to try to repair the site and begin a movement to find a new site.”

Following studies, a fundraising campaign was held and land was purchased in Goochland.

Construction moved forward and the new Camp opened in 1976.

“Stan was behind us all the time and encouraged and guided us to open the new Camp.

Words can’t describe how important Stan was to

You Can Make More

MIRACLES

Happen at Hanukkah Donate to the miraculous work of Hadassah December 10-17, 2020

Join Richmond Families for a NO SHOW Hanukkah Celebration

efits from each card ordered through us.

You do not have to be a Hadassah member to order!

Please send your check made payable to Hadassah along with your name, address, phone number, email address, Mah Jongg id number (if available), and size of card you are ordering to Toby Rosenthal; 3523 Corrotoman Rd; Glen

Allen, VA 23060.

Orders must be received by Jan. 20.

Each name and address submitted will ensure their membership in the National Mah Jongg League, and each recipient will receive a copy of the Mah Jongg League publication in January.

Thank you for supporting Hadassah Richmond!

this effort and so many others.”

The JCC held a special celebration “50 Years on Monument Avenue,” and honored 50 families or individuals who helped guide the growth and excellence of the Center during that time. A wall in the Center includes photographs with tributes to them, including a large panel on Stanley Reitzes seen at the right.

It reads: “In any discussion of the Jewish Community Center, the first name mentioned is that of Stan Reitzes. Hired as the Center’s first program director in 1946, he became Executive Director in 1957 and served in that capacity until his retirement twenty years later. No professional leader, and few other individuals had a greater impact on the JCC than Stan. He attracted and trained. a great many lay and professional Jewish communal servants and ensured the excellence and longevity of Richmond’s JCC. A true mensch, Stan was named Executive Director Emeritus in 1995.”

Thank you “Mr. Center” for all you did and what you meant to the community.

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 |the Reflector| 25

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End of year giving: Tax benefits while doing good

Foundation Happenings

“When ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest…thou shalt leave them for the poor and the stranger.” – Leviticus 19:9-10 n times of need, giving charitably truly becomes paramount. During the first four months of 2020 when the pandemic started, “donors nationwide recommended 544,000 grants (from donor advised funds) totaling $2.4 billion—an increase of 16% from the same time in 2019,” according to Kiplinger.com.

Charitable giving remains a priority locally too, despite 2020’s many challenges. During our recent fiscal year ending June 30, RJF provided a total of $2.4 million in grants from scores of our DAFs and endowment funds to support our local Jewish community and nonprofits around Virginia, the U.S., and around the world. This total was an increase of $100,000 from the prior year. Thank you, RJF donors, for supporting the causes near and dear to your hearts.

Now, before 2021 arrives, you may be reviewing your estate, financial, and/or tax plans.

If so, please keep charitable giving in mind, since you may earn generous tax benefits when you donate. You can even leave a legacy while you’re at it.

Here are some tips to get you started: Secure this Simple Tax Deduction: The Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Securities (CARES) Act allows for individuals who take the standard deduction in their tax returns

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By Robert Nomberg president & ceo richmond jewish foundation

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26| the Reflector| December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781

to include an above-the-line deduction of up to $300 for cash contributions. To use this benefit, you must donate before year-end directly to a qualified public charity or into an endowment fund with RJF to leave a legacy.

Gain Benefits for Large Gifts: According to USNews.com, “In 2020, you can deduct cash gifts of up to 100% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), rather than the usual 60% limit… (to help)…people reduce their taxable income significantly in 2020, and it may also help retirees who have money to give but bump up against the income limits for the deduction.”

Again, your gift must benefit a qualified public charity or fund an endow to support the charities of your choice.

Double Your Tax Break: By donating appreciated stock held for over one year, you may deduct the stock’s fair market value (if you itemize) AND avoid paying long-term capital gains taxes on your profits.

Create a DAF: A donor advised fund with RJF will streamline your annual charitable giving. With a DAF, you may donate appreciated assets or cash into your fund, earn immediate tax benefits, and recommend grants to any qualified charity at any future time.

You can start a DAF with $5000 and it takes minutes to create.

How about a tax credit? Donors receive federal and state tax deduction, as well as a state tax credit. Individual or business donors

receive a tax credit equal to 65% of the donation.

T h e minimum donation amount is $500.

The maxim u m donation amount for individuals and married couples is $125,000. There is no maximum limit for any business entity.

Initiate a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD): If you are 701/2 and older, you may give up to $100,000 per year taxfree from your IRA to establish or grow an endowment fund or directly to any charity you choose, via a QCD. The gift counts toward your required minimum distribution (RMD) but isn’t included in their AGI. As USNews.com points out, RMDs are halted in 2020 due to the CARES Act, but by donating from your IRA instead of other accounts, you will reduce the amount needed for future RMDs, so it serves as an effective financial planning initiative. (Note: A QCD may take some time to process; please contact your IRA provider and RJF soon to ensure it is completed by December 31.)

As always, consult with your trusted tax advisor for full details to discuss which options are the best for your personal situation.

www.JewishRichmond.org

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Virginia Holocaust Museum Happenings

Celebrate Hanukkah with gifts of Israel bondS

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hen I first studied Medieval Jewish History, I learned that there were conspiracy theories that came out of Europe and accused Jews of poisoning wells and kidnapping children.

These were conspiracy theories that accused Jews of endangering the environment. They accused the Jewish religion of having terrible rituals.

Later I learned of a document called the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion,” which was written in Russia in the early 1900s. This fictional pamphlet said that Jews were part of an international conspiracy to undermine the world economies. More recent theories have accused Jews of owning and/or controlling the media.

Hitler took some of his propaganda cues from the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion.” He used the “conspiracy theory” to convince the German public that the Jews were the cause of all their problems after World War I. Hitler promised a return to prosperity and a return to world prominence once he eradicated the Jewish influence in German life. Hitler, the dictator, discriminated against the Jews and made them the scapegoat for all of the ills that had befallen Germany.

Through incremental changes, the Nazis made racism and anti-Semitism the national policy of the Third Reich.

Today in America, we find ourselves in multiple crises. The COVID pandemic has led to high levels of unemployment and economic decline for hundreds of thousands. We have a crisis of racial inequality and the country is embroiled in terrible partisan politics.

This crisis had led to what some now believe is the next conspiracy theory, QAnon. This theory blames the evils of the world on certain powerbrokers who also worship Satan and abduct children. While we do not know how many people currently identify with the QAnon movement and its beliefs, we know it has made its way into mainstream media with enough followers to raise a red flag of concern.

These difficult times in which we live have set the tone and people, once again, turn to conspiracy theories for answers. ADL reports tell us that AntiSemitism is on the rise. The attacks on Synagogues in Pittsburgh and San Diego make the danger even more apparent. Therefore, we must remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to identify and oppose bigotry and baseless theories when we find them, and not allow them to grow beyond our ability to address them.

Come join the over 5,000 visitors who have come to the Museum since we re-opened on July 6. It is imperative that we continue our learning about the Holocaust and other genocides and the role racist ideology played in the history of these events. www.JewishRichmond.org

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector |27

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December 2020 Kislev/Tevet 5781 | the Reflector | 28