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4 IYAR 5776 • MAY 12, 2016 • VOLUME XXXVII, NUMBER 10 • PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID, SYRACUSE, NY

Rabbi Evan Shore to receive 2016 Roth Award BY BETTE SIEGEL The Jewish Federation of Central New York has announced that the 2016 Esther and Joseph Roth Award in recognition of outstanding Jewish community leadership will be presented to Rabbi Evan Shore at Federation’s 98th annual meeting on Wednesday, June 8, at 6 pm. The sponsor of this year’s annual meeting is First Niagara Bank. The award was established in May 1979 by the friends and family of Esther and Joseph Roth. The award itself is permanent and is housed and displayed in the office of the Jewish Federation of Central New York. It is awarded in honor and recognition of individuals who have demonstrated “outstanding Jewish community leadership” and is considered to be the major community service award presented by the Syracuse Jewish community. Rabbi Shore is a member of the Federation board and the Federation’s Campaign Advisory Board. The Roths’ son, Paul, said, “Syracuse, and not just its Jewish community, has been extremely fortunate to have had Rabbi Shore in its midst as an admired leader. It goes without saying how his presence year after year in our community

potential to make a difference. has continued to unify us under Everyone counts and everyone the direction of his exemplary is needed. Syracuse is my home actions. It is just these kinds and where I would like to retire.” of actions that comprise the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Commakings of each year’s Roth Award recipient.” munity Center of Syracuse Federation President/CEO Executive Director Marci Linda Alexander said, “We Erlebacher said, “Rabbi Shore are delighted to recognize and ‘Rebbe’teaches by example. He honor Rabbi Shore for his many has had a profound influence on years of leadership to the Jewish our community because he will community. He brings honor to always take time to listen and Rabbi Evan Shore impart the wisdom of Torah. our entire community.” In 2012, Rabbi Shore was He takes time to teach the most asked why he gives to the Jewish Federa- learned as well as the most unlearned tion of Central New York. His answer was and he teaches both with a respect and published in the Jewish Observer. What compassion that instills in the individual he felt were the three most important rea- the desire to keep learning.” Rabbi Shore has been a teacher at the sons were that he believed in the Syracuse Jewish community, after having spent 24 Syracuse Hebrew Day School for more years, now 27, living in Central New York; than 20 years. He said, “SHDS occupies a he and his wife, Deborah, raised “three unique spot in the community. It is one of wonderful children” there; and he felt that the few agencies that truly can claim that its Syracuse was “an excellent community.” constituency represents all the synagogues During his time in Syracuse, he has in the area, as well as non-affiliated Jews. been offered positions in much larger The day school not only ensures continucommunities, but as a family, he and his ity; it also guarantees viability. Statistics wife chose to remain in Central New York. overwhelmingly show that the best way He said, “Living in a smaller community to ensure connection with Judaism is a has great advantages. Everyone has the Jewish day school education. I feel that

JCC annual meeting and gala to be held June 5 BY WILLIAM WALLAK The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse will celebrate what is considered its “biggest and most important” annual fund-raiser by unveiling a new award, “The Leslie,” which is intended to honor the spirit of the late Leslie London Neulander. The JCC’s 153rd annual meeting and gala will be held on Sunday, June 5, from 11 am-2 pm, Joanne Maloff Helen Marcum at Owera Vineyards, 5276 E. Lake Rd., Cazenovia. The Leslie, as well as summer camp and senior programs. Due the other awards to be presented during to its supporters, each year the JCC grants the gala, will recognize “a wide range of more than $40,000 in scholarship requests, outstanding service in support of the JCC serves more than 6,000 meals to seniors and the community.” and offers fitness classes at a discount to Marci Erlebacher, JCC executive those in need. director, said, “This year’s gala will be Five awards will be presented this year. especially meaningful as we honor a “The Leslie” will recognize “outstanding wonderful group of award recipients and commitment and service to the JCC and present the very first ‘Leslie’ award. I am the local community,” qualities said to so excited that we’ll be celebrating Leslie be inspired by London Neulander and and her legacy of exceptional volunteer “personified throughout her many selfless service in this way.” volunteer pursuits.” With the support from Following a cocktail hour and an her family – Bob, Brian, Emily, Jenna and American “country brunch,” a brief busi- Ari Neulander – London Neulander was ness meeting will be held, followed by said to have made “such positive volunteer the awards presentation. As in previous contributions throughout the community.” years, the event’s proceeds will provide It will be presented for the first time funding for scholarships to individuals in to Sara Temes, JCC board member and the JCC’s early childhood, after school, See “Gala” on page 4

the Federation’s support of SHDS is an investment in the future of the Syracuse Jewish community.” He continued, “Syracuse [is] a great community. If I am made aware of a need in the Jewish community of Syracuse, my job is to help and assist. As klal Yisroel, the nation of Israel, we have an important mission to carry on. The spiritual heritage of Abraham is a lineage of compassion. This compassion can manifest itself in many ways. One of the best ways is to support the Jewish Federation of Central New York. The Talmud (Baba Batra 9a) says, ‘Greater than one who does a mitzvah, is one who causes others to do a mitzvah.’ The Federation fills this role by enabling others to help and contribute.” Former SHDS Head of School Barbara Davis said, “Rabbi Shore is an extraordinary and gifted teacher, able to connect with people across the Jewish spectrum, from kindergarten to adulthood, to both Jews and non-Jews. Bertrand Russell wrote that ‘no man can be a good teacher unless he has feelings of warm affection toward his pupils and a genuine desire to impart to them what he himself believes to be of value.’ There is no teacher of whom this is more true than Rabbi Shore. He genuinely likes and esteems all the people with whom he comes in contact; he sincerely cares about them all and he cares equally deeply about what he teaches them.” See “Award” on page 5

2016 Federation Annual Campaign Goal: $1,200,000

1,044,427

$ Sara Temes

Phil Stein

as of May 9, 2016

To make a pledge, contact Marianne Bazydlo at 445-2040 ext. 102 or mbazydlo@jewishfederationcny.org.

Robin and Steven Sisskind

C A N D L E L I G H T I N G A N D P A R AS H A May 13......................8:02 pm.................................................... Parasha-Kedoshim May 20......................8:09 pm............................................................ Parasha-Emor May 27......................8:15 pm............................................................Parasha-Behar

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Yom Hashoah

Federation dollars

“Fear of the other”

Hundreds attended the community The Jewish Federation announces A Jewish Obama administration Yom Hashoah observance; who that 30 camperships have been official decries the rising “fear of should ensure survivors’ welfare. awarded this year. the other” in the U.S. Story on page 5 Stories on page 2 Story on page 6

PLUS Calendar Highlights.................... 6 B’nai Mitzvah................................ 6 Obituaries...................................... 7 Personal & Business Services.... 8

JEWISH OBSERVER ■ MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776

Community Yom Hashoah observance draws hundreds to Temple Concord BY JUDITH L. STANDER Hundreds of people from Central New York visited Temple Concord on May 1 to remember and honor the millions of Jews and members of other ethnic groups who were slaughtered during World War II. The event included multiple faith groups and public officials who paid tribute to those lost during the Holocaust. The Jewish Federation of Central New York 2016 Yom Hashoah Planning Committee was chaired by Syracuse University Professor Emeritus Alan Goldberg, who leads the Syracuse University Spector/ Warren Fellowship and the Holocaust and Genocide Initiative. He is recognized as a national expert in teaching others how to teach the Holocaust at all levels of education. The program’s opening began with a reading of the hundreds of names inscribed in the Federation’s Community Book of Remembrance. This year, they were read aloud by Rabbis Irvin Beigel, Paul Drazen, Leah Fein, Daniel Fellman, Daniel Jezer, Andrew Pepperstone, Yaakov Rapoport and Evan Shore. Stanlee Stahl, executive vice president of the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous, was the keynote speaker. She spoke about honoring Righteous Christians and

L-r: Stanlee Stahl, executive vice president of the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous, spoke about honoring Righteous Christians and Muslims who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. Next to her was Syracuse University Professor Emeritus Alan Goldberg, head of the SU Spector/ Warren Fellowship and the Holocaust and Genocide Initiative.

Monica Zingaro, a Holocaust survivor, lit a candle at the May 1 Yom Hashoah commemoration. Behind her was her daughter, Gina De John Clifford, and an unnamed woman.

Muslims who risked their lives, and often the lives of their families, to save Jews from death in Europe and Eastern Europe during the Holocaust. She spoke about the importance of the world recognizing and safeguarding the lives of individuals and families facing discrimination.

The song “Where, O Where Shall I Go?” was performed by some of the local cantors, including Cantors Francine Berg, Kari Siegel Eglash, Robert Lieberman and Paula Pepperstone, as well as Ba’alat Tefillah Esa Jaffe. Every year, there is a Yom Hashoah

essay contest. Students in Central New York middle and high schools can enter individual essays on a topic related to understanding the Holocaust and present and past worldwide genocides. This year’s theme was “Why People Rescue People.” All of this year’s middle school winners were from the Syracuse Hebrew Day School and included first place, Kiru Morrissette; second place, Jack Wells; and third place, Shaynah Sikora. The high school winners included first place, Matthew Cross, Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School; second place, Benjamin Catania, Jamesville-DeWitt High School; and third place, Brenna LaFountain, Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School. All winners were announced during the program. The essays will be posted on the Federation website at www.jewishfederationcny.org. Survivors and rescuers from the 1930s and 40s have been honored whenever possible. At the Yom Hashoah event, their stories were shared as each person, along with their families, lit a memorial candle. In addition, an interfaith component has been specifically dedicated to recognizing genocides that have occurred in the past, as well as showing an awareness of what is occurring around the world today.

A MATTER OF OPINION Holocaust survivors’ welfare is a public, private and community responsibility BY MARK WILF AND TODD MORGAN JTA – They survived unimaginable horrors, yet went on to live productive lives, despite the haunting memories, the profound loss and physical scars from years of deprivation. Now many Holocaust survivors need our assistance so they may live their twilight years with dignity in their homes and communities. Most Holocaust survivors are in their 80s and 90s, and an astounding 25 percent of them in the United States live in poverty, struggling to meet basic needs for food, housing, health care and transportation. Many live alone and have no extended family who survived the Holocaust. Spouses who used to provide support are no longer living. Each year, just as we lose many survivors, we also see others coming forward, identifying themselves as Holocaust survivors in desperate need of assistance. As survivors age, they face challenges different from other older adults. Some suffer from delayed-onset post-traumatic stress disorder, making it more difficult to live in assisted living or nursing homes, where institutional life, with its uniformed staff, regimented schedules and rules can lead to flashbacks of concentration camps or other periods of confinement. Unfamiliar showers can be a frightening reminder of gas chambers. Multiple studies have found that survivors are more likely than others to experience anxiety and nightmares. We cannot let this happen. For many survivors, social services are their lifeline. Home care, the most expensive of these vital services, costs an average of $20 per hour per survivor. With approximately 125,000 Holocaust survivors in the U.S., it will take extensive resources to serve even the neediest of survivors. The German government, through the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, provides the majority of the funding for social services, but survivor needs are exceeding available funding. Local communities have taken note, and we’re inspired by the philanthropic campaigns that are working to educate the

community. Together, we’ve raised more than $30 million throughout the past couple years. Additionally, companies have stepped up to help. We’re grateful for the partnership between the Alpha Omega dental fraternity and Henry Schein Cares to offer Holocaust survivors pro bono dental care, and the generosity of the Starkey Hearing Foundation to provide hearing aids free of charge to survivors in need. Finally, government leaders are recognizing the specialized assistance that aging Holocaust survivors require. Vice President Joe Biden announced the White House’s initiative to help Holocaust survivors in 2013. This resulted in numerous avenues for assistance. On International Holocaust Remembrance Day earlier this year, President Barack Obama declared, “Governments have an obligation to care for the survivors of the Shoah because no one who endured that horror should have to scrape by in their golden years.” In March, Jewish Federations distributed $2.8 million in federal grants to assist programs for Holocaust survivors. Coupled with the required matching funds, the disbursement results in $4.5 million for survivor services. For the first time, the federal government will soon issue guidance to states on serving Holocaust survivors, as required by the Older Americans Act Reauthorization that cleared Congress in April. A few states and local governments are providing assistance as well. In Florida, for example, local Jewish Federations worked together to obtain a special state appropriation for Holocaust survivor services, while in New York City last year, Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council approved a budget including $1.5 million to assist Holocaust survivors living in poverty. More states and local governments should follow these leads in pursuing special appropriations. Perhaps more impactful is that we encourage Germany to continue to fulfill its moral responsibility by providing additional financial resources for social services for Holocaust survivors, as recently called for in bipartisan resolutions

in the U.S. House and Senate. Both of our families managed to overcome great odds and survive the Holocaust, fortunate to be able to re-establish their lives in America and prosper. Not every Holocaust survivor was so lucky. They are the survivors who need our help. We must volunteer our time, visit Holocaust survivors and engage them in their Jewish communities. These survivors are our heroes, our teachers and our mentors. One day they will no longer be with us. Until that day comes,

of Central New York

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Bette Siegel Syracuse Editor Publisher Jewish Federation of Central New York Inc. Ruth Stein Chair of the Board Linda Alexander Federation President/CEO Mark Field Vice President for Communications Editorial 5655 Thompson Rd. DeWitt, NY 13214

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we are obligated to ensure that they live their remaining days and years in dignity. When future generations ask if the Jewish community took care of its Holocaust survivors, let that answer be a resounding “yes.” Mark Wilf is president and co-owner of the Minnesota Vikings and a board member of JTA’s parent organization, 70 Faces Media. Todd Morgan is the founder and chairman of Bel Air Investment Advisors. Together, they co-chair the Jewish Federations’ Fund for Holocaust Survivors. All articles, announcements and photographs must be received by noon Wednesday, 15 days prior to publication date. Articles must be typed, double spaced and include the name of a contact person and a daytime telephone number. E-mail submissions are encouraged and may be sent to JewishObserverCNY@gmail.com. The Jewish Observer reserves the right to edit any copy. Signed letters to the editor are welcomed: they should not exceed 250 words. Names will be withheld at the discretion of the editor. All material in this newspaper has been copyrighted and is exclusive property of the Jewish Observer and cannot be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. Views and opinions expressed by our writers, columnists, advertisers and by our readers do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s and editors’ points of view, nor that of the Jewish Federation of Central New York. The newspaper reserves the right to cancel any advertisements at any time. This newspaper is not liable for the content of any errors appearing in the advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied. The advertiser assumes responsibility for errors in telephone orders. The Jewish Observer does not assume responsibility for the kashrut of any product or service advertised in this paper. THE JEWISH OBSERVER OF CENTRAL NEW YORK (USPS 000939) (ISSN 1079-9842) Publications Periodical postage paid at Syracuse, NY and other offices. Published 24 times per year by the Jewish Federation of Central New York Inc., a non-profit corporation, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt, NY 13214. Subscriptions: $36/year; student $10/ year. POST MASTER: Send address change to JEWISH OBSERVER OF CENTRAL NEW YORK, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt, NY 13214.

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MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776 ■

JEWISH OBSERVER

AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK Alpert family establishes Endowment Fund BY LINDA ALEXANDER The Jewish Community Foundation of Central New York received a gift this past month from Herbert and Ettarae Alpert. Their donation established a

restricted endowment fund to benefit the Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas Endowment Fund for the Future, a fund administered by the Jewish Community Foundation. To date, more than 40 con-

The Guide for Jewish Funeral and Mourning Customs

The Syracuse Rabbinical Council is comprised of rabbis from many different parts of the Jewish community, including all four local congregations, the Syracuse Hebrew Day School, Menorah Park, Hillel at Syracuse University, a rabbinic hospital chaplain and a local rabbi emeritus. The SRC meets regularly throughout the year and discusses issues that impact the larger Jewish community in Central New York. One of the things that was noticed in the different communities was the need for an “accessible and comprehensive” explanation of Jewish funeral and mourning customs. Death is something that touches everyone in one form or another, whether it is through the death of a family member or close friend, or through attending a funeral or a shiva house. It is thought that talking or learning about Jewish funeral and mourning customs is “often avoided until it becomes an unfortunate reality.” People who have lost a loved one can be “emotionally vulnerable,” overwhelmed or under stress while managing the logistics of funeral arrangements. To begin a conversation in advance, the SRC wanted to provide the community with guidance to support people and reduce the stress that often comes when a loved one dies. Another goal of the SRC was to start the conversation within families, the local congregations and the

larger Jewish community. To these ends, the SRC, with Rabbi Paul Drazen as the lead writer, developed the guide, which covers what one does immediately following a death and through the end of the year of mourning. During the writing process, the SRC also met with local funeral directors for their feedback and input. The SRC received a grant from the Community Program Fund of the Jewish Federation of Central New York, which made possible the publication and distribution of the guide. The SRC’s aim for the guide is not to create one uniform standard for all Jewish funeral practices. If people have specific questions about customs observed in their congregation, they should contact their rabbi. If someone does not yet belong to one of the four local congregations, the members of the SRC hope that that person will make a connection with one of them before such a need arises. In the years to come, the SRC hopes that the Jewish community will turn to the guide for support and to answer some of the questions that surround Jewish funeral and mourning customs. In addition to writing the guide, the SRC is working on a number of other initiatives, including an adult learning series for the next school year. Details about the initiative will be announced in the coming weeks.

gregational families have donated or set up legacy gifts at the Foundation for the Fund for the Future, totaling almost one-half million dollars. When asked why they decided to donate to the CBS-CS Fund, Ettarae said, “Hecky and I are native Syracusans and were founders of the congregation in 1962. Hecky was the first president and I was the president of the Sisterhood. The congregation has been an important part of our family’s lives all these years. All four of our children were bar and bat mitzvahed there. Our contribution will play a small part in helping make sure that Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas will continue to be a vibrant part of the Syracuse community.” The Foundation is said to be “proud to assist CBS-CS in encouraging endowed

Ettarae and Herbert “Hecky” Alpert gifts to their congregation” and has worked in partnership with the congregation since 2006.

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The Oaks at Menorah Park hosts the second dietary lecture

The Oaks at Menorah Park has initiated a free dietary lecture series to help residents and their families better understand the power of healthy eating. The next lecture, which will be on antioxidants, will be held on Wednesday, May 18, at 2:30 pm, in the social center of The Oaks at 18 Arbor Ln., Syracuse. Cristine Hansen, a registered dietician nutritionist and registered yoga teacher, will speak. Hansen, the clinical nutrition manager at Menorah Park for more than 13 years, graduated summa cum laude from Marywood University. She was also one of New York state’s first board certified specialists in gerontological nutrition.

The first lecture of the series, held on April 20, was on spring vegetables. The final lecture will be held on Wednesday, June 15, and will cover pre- and probiotics. Hansen will alternate lectures with Chaya Lee Charles, a certified dietician nutritionist, whose work at Menorah Park includes nutritional assessment and counseling for the residents of The Inn, the assisted living facility, as well as wellness program planning. The lectures will be free and open to the public. For more information, call 449-3309 or visit www.MenorahParkofCNY.com.

Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center senior dining menu MAY 16-20 Monday – baked ziti Tuesday – beef stew Wednesday – seafood strudel Thursday – sweet and sour meatballs Friday – orange-glazed baked chicken MAY 23-27 Monday – Hawaiian chicken Tuesday – spaghetti and meatballs Wednesday – macaroni and cheese Thursday – chicken rollatini Friday – brisket The Bobbi Epstein Lewis JCC Senior Adult Dining Program at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of

Syracuse offers Va’ad Ha’ir-supervised kosher lunches served Monday-Friday at noon. Lunch reservations are required by noon of the previous business day. There is a suggested contribution per meal. The menu is subject to change. The program is funded by a grant from the Onondaga County Department of Aging and Youth and the New York State Office for the Aging, with additional funds provided by the JCC. To attend, one need not be Jewish or a member of the JCC. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Cindy Stein at 445-2360, ext. 104, or cstein@jccsyr.org.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776

CONGREGATIONAL NOTES Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas WEEKEND OF MAY 13-15 The weekend of Friday-Sunday, May 13-15, will begin with a Shirat Shabbat with Lisa Levens, a former member of the Boston Zamir Chorale, who will lead services on May 13 at 6 pm. Services will be preceded by an Asefat Shabbat at 5:45 pm, which will feature snacks and socializing. Reverend Bill Redfield, an Episcopal priest and a founder of and teacher at the Nancy Simmons Wisdom House, a Spiritual Outreach Ministry of Trinity Episcopal Church, will speak on Saturday, May 14, during services as the congregation’s May gesher speaker. Each month, the congregation invites someone from the larger community to talk about their work and how it relates to the life of the congregation and its members. The intention of Wisdom House is “to provide a place of hospitality and welcome to seekers of all faith traditions.” It is designed to be a place “where everyone can honor one another through respectful dialogue, inquiry and methods of spiritual practice.” Services will begin at 9:30 am. Following services, Jeanette Powell will give the second of two Lunch and Learns as an introduction to the work of Rabbi Lawrence Troster, who will be the congregation’s spring 2017 scholar-in-residence. He will focus on environmental Judaism. The Lunch and Learn is part of Shabbat Spot, when members and guests are encouraged to stay longer, have a light lunch, study and socialize. The Shabbat

Gala

treasurer. Temes is a partner with the law firm Bond, Schoeneck and King, where she represents a variety of clients across many industries. A graduate of Wellesley College and the University of Pennsylvania Law School, she began her career with a large international law firm in New York before returning to Syracuse with her husband, David, in 2006. She is also on the board of Menorah Park of Central New York and was a 2015 Syracuse “40 Under Forty” honoree. Sarah, David and their two children are members of Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas. “Because ‘The Leslie’ is a very special award with strict criteria for choosing the honoree, it may not be presented every year,” said Erlebacher. “It’s fitting that we will present this first Leslie to Sara Temes; as she has demonstrated the same ‘take charge’ drive which Leslie embodied to cross boundaries and help others both here at the JCC and around the community.” This year’s Kovod Award, which is said to signify “honor and importance,” will be presented to JCC board member Joanne Maloff. Her years of service and involvement with the JCC include serving on the JCC’s Dinner Dance Committee (forerunner of the current gala) since the early 1990s and chairing or co-chairing the event for six years. She has also chaired

Spot that morning will be sponsored in honor of the birthdays of two congregational members. LAST DAY OF CBS-CS RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FOR 2015-16 The CBS-CS Religious School will conclude its Sunday morning religious school schedule on May 15 with an Israeli fair. One of the classes throughout the year has focused on the Jewish state. The morning will give students an opportunity to celebrate Israel while sharing all they have learned about Israel throughout the year. Student teachers will also have the opportunity to talk about their experiences in Israel and there will be an Israeli shuk, where the students can obtain Israeli items. The morning and the year will conclude with the weekly all school tefilah (prayer) experience. “ROSH HODESH: IT’S A GIRL THING” HOLDS FINAL SESSION OF THE PROGRAM YEAR The “Rosh Hodesh: It’s a Girl Thing” program for sixth-eighth grade students will hold its last monthly session of the year with advisor Sara Goldfarb at 12:15 pm on Sunday, May 15. This program uses Jewish teachings and practices to give girls “a place to feel safe, articulate their deepest concerns, consider the impact of gender on their daily lives, have fun and be real with their peers.” Members of the community are welcome to attend all services at CBS-CS. For more information, contact the CBS-CS office at 446-9570 or office@cbscs.org.

Temple Adath Yeshurun

Temple Adath Yeshurun Religious School students participated in a Passover garden program at the Syracuse Community Garden. L-r (facing camera): Tobey Schulman, Edwin Hirsh and Stephanie Lynne.

At right: Kellyn Pompo practiced brushing teeth during the dental hygienist visit from Village Dental Group at Rothschild Early Childhood Center.

Continued from page 1

the JCC’s annual meeting, volunteered at the annual Purim Carnival and helped with the board’s Super Bowl Committee for the past five years. In addition, Maloff has actively volunteered with other community organizations, including Meals on Wheels, hospital dental clinics, local synagogues and the Syracuse Hebrew Day School, which gave her the Woman of Valor Award. The Kovod Gadol Award, which translates to “great honor,” will be presented to Steven and Robin Sisskind. They met while attending Syracuse University and have been married for more than 37 years. In addition to being longtime JCC members and supporters, the Sisskinds are said to have been “very involved” with the local Jewish community. Steven is the JCC’s board president and owner of Sisskind Funeral Service, which has been serving the Central New York Jewish community since 1990. He is the vice president of KAVOD – the Independent Jewish Funeral Chapels and of the Jewish Funeral Directors of America. He is also an Executive Committee member of Temple Adath Yeshurun and Menorah Park, secretary of the Syracuse Jewish Cemeteries Association, and he and Robin have been co-chairing Menorah Park’s Shining Stars event for the past 12 years.

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Robin Sisskind is the corresponding secretary of the Women of Temple Adath, the “flower lady” responsible for securing donors for the flowers that grace the bima at Temple Adath Yeshurun every Shabbat and holidays, and she has been an award-winning Weight Watchers leader for more than 32 years. “We are so proud to be a part of the Syracuse community,” said Steven Sisskind. “We chose to make it our home so many years ago – it is the best decision we ever made.” The JCC’s Hall of Fame Award will be given to Helen Marcum and, posthumously, to Phil Stein. The award recognizes and celebrates individuals who have dedicated themselves to the Syracuse Jewish community and to the advancement of the JCC. Marcum is a former JCC board member and was the Center’s second female board president. Her dedication to volunteering is said to have started “at an early age” while growing up in Brooklyn, NY, where she recalls helping her mother stuff envelopes for Hadassah mailings. The early experience reportedly stayed with her as she went on to give her time to many nonprofit organizations. She is a board member and finance chair of the New York State Federation of Women’s Clubs, board member and treasurer of the Syracuse Federation of Women’s Clubs and member of the Jewish Observer Advisory Committee. Previously, she served as the first female board president of the Jewish Federation of Central New York; president of the National Council of Jewish Women, Greater Syracuse Section At-Large; president of the Syracuse Federation of Women’s Clubs; and chaired the Mayor’s Commission for Women under former Syracuse Mayor Tom Young. She received the Esther and Joseph Roth Award for Outstanding Jewish Community Leadership from the Jewish Federation of Central New York in 1990 and the Hannah G. Solomon

Award from the NCJW Greater Syracuse Section At-Large. Stein, a CPA, died in May 2015. He was the JCC’s longtime auditor and a partner with D’Arcangelo and Co. certified public accountants. Stein was thought of as well-respected in his field and his clients and co-workers reportedly “miss him very much.” He served as treasurer of LaFayette Golf and Country Club, Temple Concord, Menorah Park, Metropolitan School for the Arts and the Syracuse International Film Festival. He was a member of the New York State Attorney Grievance Committee and the Cavalry Club, and was a past president of LaFayette Golf and Country Club. A congregant of Temple Concord, he also was considered an active community volunteer with Junior Achievement and Canine Working Companions. Erlebacher said, “Phil was a wonderful man and had a great sense of humor. He was revered by both his friends and his clients. We still feel a tremendous void without his expertise and guidance.” Invitations for the JCC’s Annual Meeting and Gala were recently mailed out. There are still corporate and individual sponsorships, as well as program booklet advertiser spots, available. To purchase tickets, or for information on event sponsorships, advertising or to place a congratulatory message in the program booklet for any of this year’s honorees, contact Nancy Kasow at 445-2360, ext. 112, or nkasow@jccsyr.org. The JCC, located on Thompson Road in DeWitt, was established in 1861 and is the second oldest JCC in NorthAmerica. It offers a range of programs and services for all ages, including infant and toddler care, preschool, before and after school care, vacation camps for school-age children, summer day camps, teen programs, a sports and fitness center, outdoor heated pool with swimming lessons during the summer, adult programming, and services for seniors, including a senior kosher meal program.

MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776 ■

JEWISH OBSERVER

SCHS held orientation for incoming class BY DIANE WLADIS The Syracuse Community Hebrew School held a second grade orientation on April 13 for next year’s incoming third grade class. The event began with a tour of the building at Temple Adath Yeshurun, where SCHS will be held for the 2016-17 school year. The students and their families were able to familiarize themselves with the entrance and layout, as well as the location of their classroom. In the chapel, the second grade students and their parents were introduced to Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra-Shas Rabbi Andrew Pepperstone, TAY Rabbi Paul Drazen

and Ba’alat Tefillah Esa Jaffe, and Temple Concord Rabbi Daniel Fellman and Cantor Kari Siegel Eglash, all of whom take turns leading tefillot, prayer time at the beginning of each session. They were introduced to the current third grade class and observed as the students were led by their teacher, Tamar Frieden, in a “Hebrew through Movement” exercise. Following the demonstration, Frieden invited the prospective students to join in the activity. She gave Hebrew commands and the new group was able to follow along. An icebreaker activity was then held for the prospective students and refreshments

At left: Third grade students discussed their plans during the second grade visit.

Na’amat honors Ruth Stein

Na’amat USA’s Avodah Chapter honored Ruth Stein, chair of the board of the Jewish Federation of Central New York, as the 2016 Woman of Achievement at its annual donor luncheon on April 17. Stein was selected as this year’s honoree based on her “sustained involvement” in the Jewish and secular communities. L-r: Chapter Co-president Karen Roberts, Stein and chapter Co-president Nancy Barnett.

Award

Continued from page 1

A former SHDS student said, “[Rabbi Shore] accepts all streams of Judaism and puts the fun in learning – including making the study of texts enjoyable and exciting.” The current head of school, Lori Tenenbaum, added, “Rabbi Evan Shore is much more to the Syracuse Hebrew Day School community than just a rabbi or educator. He is our colleague, our friend, our mentor, our spiritual guide. He inspires us daily to look at our world with a Jewish lens, even the non-Jewish staff. Rabbi encourages us to dig deeply and ask difficult questions, and he is there with a sympathetic ear or pearl of wisdom when we need it. Thank you, Rabbi. Our world is a better place because of you.” In addition to SHDS, Rabbi Shore has been a teacher at the Rabbi Epstein School of Jewish Studies for many years. It has often been noted that he has “brought enthusiasm for – and a love of – Jewish learning to the students there.” He taught ethics to the eighth grade students for many years, and the class was always filled. Epstein School Education Director Cantor Paula Pepperstone said, “Rabbi Shore has been an integral part of the Epstein School’s faculty for many years. He has faithfully served our community’s teens through his love of Jewish learning.” Jeffrey and Audrey Meyer are not only congregants of Shaarei Torah Orthodox Congregation of Syracuse, they are friends who have traveled with Rabbi Evan and Deborah Shore to Israel. They said, “It is a wonderful honor by the Syracuse

Jewish community to bestow the Roth Award upon Rabbi Evan Shore, a deeply involved and beloved member of our community for over 25 years. The rabbi is very knowledgeable in issues of halachah (Jewish law) which one would expect of a rabbi; but [he] is also approachable, accessible and always willing to address any question, regardless of how minor the issue may be. His warmth and humor appeal to all generations, from the very young (as a teacher at the Syracuse Hebrew Day School) to our most senior (as chaplain at Menorah Park). Rabbi Shore has had, and continues to have, a positive and lasting influence on all he meets. Our warmest mazel tov for this richly deserved honor!” Shaarei Torah President Norman Poltenson added to the accolades, saying, “Shaarei Torah is honored that Rabbi Evan Shore has been selected as this year’s Esther and Joseph Roth Award recipient. Since his arrival in Syracuse 26 years ago, he has immersed himself in the Jewish community, not only as the spiritual leader of our congregation, but also as a teacher at the Syracuse Hebrew Day School and the Epstein School, the chaplain at Menorah Park, a member of the Syracuse Rabbinical Council and the head of the Syracuse Va’ad Ha’ir and the chevra kadisha. Rabbi Shore is an exceptional teacher for people of all ages, [a person] who never tires of sharing his knowledge. This award is a tribute to Rabbi Shore’s outreach and dedication to the Syracuse Jewish community.”

were served. There was a question-and-answer session led by SCHS Education Director Shannon Small. Twelve families from three different synagogues participated in the visitation program. Julie Tornberg, CBS-CS director of youth and education, who serves on the SCHS Curriculum Committee, said, “It’s really nice to have the kids all come together and see their friends from other schools and other synagogues.” The families included those new to the community school and veterans of the inaugural program. Veteran SCHS board member David Reckess participated in the program in his new role as an SCHS parent to an incoming third grade student. He said, “The program succeeded in building familiarity and excitement for next year.”

L-r: Third grade student Olivia Clark and Danielle Alpert prepared for the second grade visit.

DO YOU KNOW? Your Federation dollars at work – Summer Camping Scholarships ly. Summer camp provides a BY JACKIE MIRON unique opportunity to learn The Jewish Federation of about Judaism and form lasting Central New York has anbonds with Jews from around nounced that 30 camperships the region, state and country, as totaling more than $20,000 for well as other countries. Jewish overnight summer camp The Jewish Federation of have been awarded this year. Central New York is further Funding for the scholarships assisting families with the costs was made possible through the of overnight camp by making generosity of the Pomeranz, Jackie Miron funds available for needs-based Shankman and Martin Charigrants. To assure confidentiality and privatable Foundation. cy of information, the camp, and not the The officers and board of the Jewish Federation of Central New York strongly Federation, makes initial recommendabelieve that camp serves Federation’s tions regarding a needs-based grant. This mission of strengthening Jewish identity includes families of the Syracuse Hebrew and building a strong and thriving Jewish Day School and other day school or yeshiva students who live in Central New community for the future. It has long been felt that a Jewish York who are not eligible for One Happy overnight summer camp is a place to Camper consideration. Scholarship money learn new skills away from home while awarded this year was also for campers forming deep friendships, while offering who were not just first year participants. The physical, spiritual and emotional a place where being Jewish is easy and fun, regardless of the personal observance health of the next generation of Jews is being practiced during the summers, and practices or beliefs. Studies have shown that Jewish youth the Jewish Federation of Central New York who attend a Jewish camp are more likely is more than proud to help make it happen. The Foundation for Jewish Camps’ One to identify as Jewish adults and engage in their Jewish community (www.reformed- Happy Camper program awards a portion judaism.org). Children with pivotal Jewish of a scholarship for first time overnight camp experiences are more likely to value campers attending a minimum number of their Jewish heritage, support Jewish nights. The Jewish Federation of Central causes and take on leadership roles in their New York is in the last year of an extended contract with One Happy Camper for communities (www.jewishcamp.org). The tenets of Judaism infuse daily camp students in this category, having given life through song, food, art and dance, and campers scholarships in previous years. are reinforced by a community of Jewish The Jewish Federation of Central New peers, with Jewish counselors and leaders York currently pays 75 percent, OHC, 25 as role models. Children are taught about percent. Planning to continue this importJewish communal life in Jewish history, ant summer camp scholarship program is and at camp they can experience it dai- currently under way.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776

D’VAR TORAH

Righteous ownership

Calendar Highlights

them for the poor and the stranger: I the Lord am your God.” (Leviticus 19:10) At first reading, the commandment seems quite simple. Further review demonstrates that this one regulation contains two parts and each provides an important lesson to consider. The first portion of the law requires a farmer to leave what falls on the ground. They are not to pick a field clean. Unlike what many farmers do today, a believing farmer will leave some produce remaining during the harvest. When gathering what has grown, sloppiness is a good thing. If a piece of fruit, some ears of corn or a few stalks of wheat dropped to the ground, the farmer was commanded to have that food remain where it fell.

To see a full calendar of community events, visit the Federation's community calendar online at www.jewishfederationcny.org. Please notify jstander@jewishfederationcny.org of any calendar changes.

B’NAI MITZVAH

BY RABBI PAUL DRAZEN The Torah portion Kedoshim largely consists of a listing of mitzvot. One commandment states, “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap all the way to the edges of your field, or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You shall not pick your vineyard bare, or gather the fallen fruit of your vineyard; you shall leave

Friday, May 13 Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas Shirat Shabbat service with Lisa Levens at 6 pm Saturday, May 14 Temple Adath Yeshurun Israeli Shabbat and casual Shabbat at 9:15 am CBS-CS lunch and learn on environmental Judaism with Jeanette Powell at noon Sunday, May 15 Temple Concord Sisterhood high tea at 9:30 am TAY Hazak joins TC Sisterhood for brunch and cabaret at Temple Concord at 10 am Rosh Hodesh, It’s a Girl’s Thing program at CBS-CS at 12:15 pm CBS-CS Hazak presents Sue Jacobs and the Seneca String Quartet at 3 pm TC Scholar Series program at 7 pm Monday, May 16 Jewish Federation of Central New York Board of Directors meeting at 5:30 pm TAY Sisterhood book discussion at 7:30 pm Rescheduled free Goldenberg Music Series performance at TC B Peter Rovit (violin), Arvilla Rovit (viola) and Ida Trebicka (piano) B at 7 pm Tuesday, May 17 Rabbi Jacob Epstein School Siyyum at TC at 6:30 pm Wednesday, May 18 Syracuse Community Hebrew School at TAY at 4 pm SCHS end-of-year dinner at TAY from 6-7:30 pm Thursday, May 19 JCC ice cream social from 4-6 pm TAY Board of Directors meeting at 7 pm Saturday, May 21 TC Lag B’Omer at Highland Forest from 5-8 pm Sunday, May 22 Jewish cooking history at TC at 10:30 am TC Mensch event at 6 pm Monday, May 23 TC Executive Committee meeting at 7 pm Syracuse Hebrew Day School Board of Directors meeting at 7 pm SHDS Kabbalat Hasiddur at 7 pm Tuesday, May 24 JCC Executive Committee meeting at 6 pm, followed by Board of Directors meeting at 7 pm Wednesday, May 25 Deadline for the June 9 issue of the Jewish Observer CBS-CS annual meeting at 7:30 pm Thursday, May 26 Lag B’Omer Shining Stars at Menorah Park at 5:30 pm SHDS barbecue and academic fair at 5 pm Friday, May 27 SHDS hosts grandparents and friends at 9:30 am for coffee, with musical entertainment at 11 am

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Rebecca Blumenthal

Rebecca Blumenthal, daughter of Judy Bernstein and the late Jeremy Blumenthal, of DeWitt, became bat mitzvah at Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas on March 19. She is the granddaughter of Edith and Arthur Bernstein, of Setauket, and Mollyann and Peter Blumenthal of Sharon, MA. She is the great-granddaughter of Rebecca Saul Wersted, of Sharon, MA. Blumenthal She is a graduate of the Syracuse Hebrew Day School and attends the Jamesville-DeWitt Middle School. She will attend the Rabbi Jacob Epstein School of Jewish Studies next year. She has opened a B’nai Mitzvah Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation of Central New York Inc. She enjoys acting in plays, reading novels, writing stories, ice skating and playing the piano.

How could God make such a requirement? After all, the farmer is doing the work and if a complete harvest was the plan, why should God interrupt it? By establishing this mitzvah, the Torah’s message is clear: farmers may work the fields and people may be caretakers of the earth, but humans are not the ultimate owners of the world. Even if a person has a valid deed for the farmland, ultimately God is the true owner, and God, as owner, requires us to leave something of our bounty for those in need. The second part of the mitzvah is also telling. “You shall leave them for the poor and the stranger.” The second part of the regulation states the purpose of leaving some produce on the ground. It was to be left on the ground for those in need. While a farmer had to leave the produce in place, the Torah did not require the farmer to pick it and deliver it to the poor. This is an example of our tradition, saying it’s a requirement to help those who need help, but in our desire to help, we must allow them the opportunity to save face, to keep their dignity. Society must provide the opportunity for those who need help to get what they need, but we may not simply hand it to them. We may not allow our generosity to cause them to feel they are not capable of being a productive contributor to their livelihood. Our role is to support, while being as inclusive as possible to those with disabilities. The Torah teaches quite clearly that we must give aid to those who need help. We cannot turn our back on suffering and say it is not our responsibility. We cannot say, “I earned what I have, let others do the same.” But more! Our responsibility goes beyond just giving; we need to provide the means for self-sustaining life, such as job training for those who need it. That is the core of the word tzedakah, which is best translated as “righteous living,” not “charity.” Rabbi Paul Drazen is the rabbi at Temple Adath Yeshurun. He previously had pulpits in Minneapolis and Omaha, and worked for the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

Peter Saulson helps LIGO hear Einstein’s thunder He has been at Syracuse University since BY ETTARAE ALPERT 1991, beginning as an associate professor of Syracuse University physicist Peter Saulphysics. He is now the Martin A. Pomerantz son appears to be “a quiet, unassuming man,” ‘37 Professor of Physics. He works with but his achievements are said to “roar” in the undergraduates, grad students, post-docs and scientific world. Last September, after years fellow faculty members. of work by scientists around the world, Albert His bar mitzvah was celebrated in Baltimore Einstein’s prediction of gravitational waves at Temple Emanuel in 1967, but his love of was confirmed – and Peter Saulson was conJudaism is said to have started “in earnest” sidered an important part of the endeavor. SU when he read Abraham Joshua Heschel’s was the first university in the United States to books in the early 2000s. It was then that he have a research group specifically devoted to Peter Saulson confronted the contrasting views of time in Einstein’s theory of gravity, according to Saulson. He considers this “my life’s work” and he is only 61. physics and in Judaism, as expounded by Einstein and Saulson earned a bachelor’s degree in physics at Har- Heschel – whom he considers “the two greatest Jewish vard University in 1976 and a doctorate at Princeton in thinkers of the 20th century.” Saulson has been married to his wife, Sarah, for 30 1981, then went to MIT as a post-doc. He was a research scientist for a total of eight years. While at MIT, he years. She is a weaver, and the tallit she wove for him is helped work out the design for what became the Laser said to be “one of his most precious (and useful) possesInterferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory. Now, sions.” They are both active members of Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas. 34 years later, it has made its first discovery.

Second Gaza terror tunnel discovered on Israel border in a month

JERUSALEM (JTA) – The Israel Defense Forces said it uncovered a Hamas-built terror tunnel on May 5 that runs from the southern Gaza Strip into Israel. The tunnel, which was found along the border with Israel, marks the second terror tunnel running between Gaza and Israel discovered in the last month, the IDF said in a statement. The military said it was uncovered as part of its “extensive counter terror efforts” in the

wake of Operation Protective Edge, the 2014 war against Hamas in Gaza. “This tunnel was built by Hamas in order to infiltrate Israel and execute terror attacks against the people of southern communities,” the IDF said in the statement. “The IDF will continue its counter terror activities to uncover and neutralize Hamas’ offensive tunnels.”

Jewish Cabinet member on Holocaust day: “Fear of the other” rising in U.S.

Washington (JTA) – A top Jewish Obama administration official decried the rise of “the fear of the other” in the United States at an event marking Holocaust Remembrance Day, or Yom Hashoah. “I do not think a Holocaust is happening in America, but I do worry about what is happening when we betray the principle of inclusion,” Penny Pritzker, the commerce

secretary, said in remarks on May 5 at the Capitol building. “Today in our beloved United States, we are witnessing a rising fear of the other. We are better than the language of hate. America is not the tribe of folded arms,” Pritzker said, using a metaphor for the Germans who stood by while the Nazis rose to power See “Fear” on page 8

MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776 ■

JEWISH OBSERVER

OBITUARIES LAURETTE BRICKMAN

Laurette Brickman, 82, of Syracuse, died on April 21 at Crouse Hospital. Her greatest thrill in life was her family. Her oldest granddaughter referred to her as “Mongotze” when she was just a child and couldn’t pronounce grandma. The nickname stuck and turned into “The Gotze” by the whole family. She loved to cook and spend time with her grandchildren. She followed all Syracuse University sports. She enjoyed reading and spent hours volunteering at the library, and was a master at jigsaw puzzles and The New York Times crosswords. She was predeceased by her great-grandson, Jack Donnelly. She is survived by her sons, Michael (Darla), Scott (Kelley) and Jon (Jill), all of Liverpool; three grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and her brother, Jay Klyde. Birnbaum Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions can be made to a charity of one’s choice. 

JEANNIE KRAMER

Jeannie Kramer, 78, died on April 29 at Crouse Hospital. Born in Utica, she had been a Syracuse resident for more than 40 years. She had been a pharmacist since 1960 after graduating from Albany College of Pharmacy, where she met and married her fellow classmate, Arthur. Her career began as a pharmacist at the pharmacy at the International Terminal at JFK Airport. She ultimately retired from Stone Infusion of Syracuse. She was a member of Temple Concord and the Onondaga County Pharmaceutical Society. She was predeceased by her husband, Arthur, in October 2012. She is survived by her children, Howard and Bonnie (Gary) Carney; and four grandchildren. Burial was in the Temple Concord section of Woodlawn Cemetery. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions can be made to the Employee Fund at Menorah Park, 4101 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13214. 

LEONARD MELTZER

Leonard Meltzer, 93, died unexpectedly on April 14 in Jupiter, FL, after residing there for the past 20 years. Born in Syracuse, he grew up in the “Jewish District” and attended Syracuse University until enlisting in the Army. He served his country during World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart and a Bronze Star in recognition of his service after spending 10 months as a prisoner of war in Germany. He was also named a Chevalier and member of the Legion of Honor by the French government. After the war, he went into business with his father as a self-employed cattle dealer until he retired. He loved his country, family, friends, horse racing and sports. He is survived by his wife, Betty Jean; his daughter, Sherry Meltzer, of West Palm Beach, FL; his nephews, Dennis and Gregory Poster; and his extended Vierow, Wood and Williams family. Burial was in Adath Yeshurun Cemetery. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions can be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111; or the U.S.O., P.O. Box 96860, Washington, DC 20077-7677. 

HENRIETTA (ABRAMOWITZ) MEREL

Henrietta (Abramowitz) Merel, 94, died on March 29 at the Regency Gardens Nursing Home in Wayne, NJ. Born in New York City, she married Alfred Merel, a decorated World War II veteran, in 1943. She graduated as valedictorian of her high school class and completed her undergraduate and post-graduate studies at Albany State Teachers College and Syracuse University. She began teaching in the Catskill region of New York state in 1942 and continued to teach and tutor as a corrective reading teacher in the Jamesville-DeWitt School District in DeWitt for almost her entire adult life. She loved teaching and her students. Her lasting legacy is the positive effect she had on the lives of those she patiently helped through learning difficulties of all sorts. In retirement, she continued to teach corrective reading as a volunteer at the Elmcrest Children’s Center. She was predeceased by her husband, Alfred, in 1983. She is survived by her daughters, Lynn Altshuler, of Wayne, NJ, and Gail Merel, of Houston, TX; two granddaughters; and four great-granddaughters. Burial was in Temple Emanuel Cemetery, Saddle Brook, NJ. Robert Schoem’s Menorah Chapel, Paramus, NJ, had arrangements. 

ELLEN DORIS NASH

Ellen Doris Nash, 81, died onApril 22 in Palm Beach, FL. Born in Syracuse, she was a 1951 graduate of Nottingham High School and a 1955 cum laude graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a bachelor’s of fine arts in music. While a student at Syracuse University, she sang in the Hendricks Chapel Choir and belonged to Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority. She was a lifelong member of Temple Concord, where she married David Nash in 1956. She had a lifelong passion for classical music and was a soprano, performing with the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra in “Joan of Arc,” “Tales of Hoffman” and “Marriage of Figaro.” She also performed in musical theater, including Salt City Playhouse’s long-running production of “Fiddler on the Roof.” She was predeceased by her daughter-in-law, Laurie Nash, in 2014. She is survived by her husband of 49 years, David Nash; their sons, Stephen (Marla) Nash, of Manlius, and Robert Nash, of Fairfax, VA; and six grandchildren. Burial was in the Temple Concord section of Woodlawn Cemetery. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, 57 W. 57th St., Suite 904, New York, NY 10019, or at www.alzdiscovery.org. 

SAMUEL SIEGEL

Samuel Siegel, 98, died at his home on April 28. Born in Saratoga Springs, NY, he moved to Syracuse in 2002. He was the former owner of Siegel’s Furniture Store in Saratoga. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in World War II as an MP. He saw combat at the Battle of the Bulge and the invasion at Utah Beach. He was an active and dedicated member of Congregation Shaara Tfille in Saratoga Springs, Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas and Temple Adath Yeshurun. He was a past president and inspiration of Hazak, the seniors group at Temple Adath Yeshurun, and was also a cornerstone of the daily morning minyan. He was the historian of the Jewish community in Saratoga Springs and archived its history. He will be remembered for his skills in the kitchen and his lifelong dedication to Jewish education. He was predeceased by his wife, Vivian, in August 2006. He is survived by his sons, Donald (Bette), of Syracuse, and Richard (Teri Specktor), of West St. Paul, MN; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Burial was in the Congregation Shaara Tfille JCC Cemetery. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions can be made to Hazak, Temple Adath Yeshurun, 450 Kimber Rd., Syracuse, NY 13224; or Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas, P.O. Box 271, DeWitt, NY 13214-0271. 

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ANNA RUTH STARR

Anna Ruth Starr, 101, died on April 27 at home at The Nottingham. Born in New York City, she was a graduate of Hunter College, majoring in music education, with post-graduate music studies at Columbia University. She was a trained singer and pianist in classical, liturgical and modern music. She was married to Joseph Ames Starr, a patent attorney, for more than 64 years before his death, and resided in the New York City area most of her life. They shared a love of music and travel. She was also an interior designer, an accomplished seamstress who made all her own clothes and a ceramicist. She is survived by her children, George (Helene) Starr, of Syracuse, and Paula Starr, of Bethesda, MD; four granddaughters; and six great-grandchildren. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions can be made to the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, 1 Children’s Circle, E. Adams St., Syracuse, NY 13210; the Everson Museum, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse, NY 13202; Hospice of Central New York, 990 7th N. St., Liverpool, NY 13088; or a charity of choice. 

NEWS IN BRIEF From JNS.org

Islamic State reportedly planning to attack Israel from Sinai

The Israeli military is concerned that the Islamic State terror group is planning a large-scale attack against Israel from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, Germany’s Bild newspaper reported on May 8, citing an Israel Defense Forces officer. The Sinai has become an Islamic State stronghold in recent years. According to the Bild report, there could be hundreds of Islamic State operatives currently training in the Sinai and awaiting an order to strike Israel. The IDF officer quoted by Bild said that while it is not clear what a future Islamic State attack against Israel would look like, it could include the use of tanks and artillery by the terrorist group.

Israeli flag burned at Babi Yar in Kiev

The mayor of Kiev, Ukraine, asked authorities to identify a group of people who were filmed burning an Israeli flag at the Babi Yar Holocaust memorial on May 5. Babi Yar is a ravine near Kiev where between 100,000 and 150,000 of Jews were massacred by the Nazis throughout the Holocaust. The flag-burning incident is the latest in a series of antisemitic incidents targeting the memorial.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ MAY 12, 2016/4 IYAR 5776

PJ Library’s Science of Passover at the MOST April 17

BY CAROLYN WEINBERG PJ Library® families attended a Passover-themed event at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology on April 17. The interactive event featured stations that combined the elements of the Passover story with science and art activities. The children had a chance to make miniature clay bricks and think about how long it would take to make enough for an entire building. Using magnifying glasses, they observed the differences between the air bubbles in bread to matzah. At the “wonderful wild beasts” station, participants were able to feel different animal bones and create art with different animal-like textured fabric. They also played with toy frogs at the water table. Participants learned how to tell the difference between a hard-boiled egg and a raw one by spinning the eggs. They inflated balloons by creating carbon dioxide. Participants had the opportunity to recline with a PJ library or PJ Our Way book and pretended to part the sea at the topography table. The event ended with a demonstration of carbon dioxide bubbles made from dry ice. Family members of all ages seemed to have had “a great time” at the Passover-themed event. The PJ Library is a national literacy program started by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. It gives free Jewish bedtime stories, CDs and DVDs to families raising Jewish children. The PJ Library Central New York chapter

is a program of the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse and is supported by the Pomeranz, Shankman and Martin Charitable Foundation, Jewish Federation of Central New York, Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas, Shaarei Torah Orthodox Congregation of Syracuse, Syracuse Hebrew Day School, Temple Adath Yeshurun and Temple Concord. The PJ Library in Central New York serves children from 6-months-8-years-old in Cortland, Madison, Onondaga and Oswego counties. For more information or to sign up, visit www.pjlibrary.org or e-mail Carolyn Weinberg at pjcny@jccsyr.org. PJ OUR WAY PJ Our Way is the newest chapter of PJ Library for children ages 9-11. PJ Our Way is different from PJ Library and is designed to meet the developmental needs of 9-11 year-olds by offering “choice and creative outlets.” Every month, children can visit the website to choose one book from a selection of four titles with Jewish themes. The books are then mailed to the child’s home. Children can also post comments and reviews on the website. To enroll, visit www.pjourway.org. Once enrolled, participants have been reminded to log on to the site and choose a book between the 1st and 10th of each month. PJ PARENTS CAN CHOOSE A BOOK IN MAY In May, all parents of active PJ Library and PJOW children will be invited to choose one of four “grown-

L-r: Danielle, Nathanael and Eric Finkelstein, as well as Lilly and Hanna Wallis, with their grandmother, Cindy Kaplan, created “Wild Beast”-themed artwork. up” book selections for themselves. An e-mail with an individualized sign-up link will be sent to parents. To view the book choices, visit: https://pjlibrary.org/yourturn. For any questions, e-mail pjparents@pjlibrary.org. Choices must be made by Monday, June 6. Books will arrive in the mail later this summer.

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L-r: Jaclyn and Eli Gnacik, Anya Reckess and Myah and Rachel Pettiford read PJ Library Passover books while reclining.

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Standing, l-r: Betty Jones and Connorlynn Gaffney, of the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology, demonstrated carbon dioxide bubbles for PJ Library families attending the “Science of Passover” program.

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China’s Hainan Airlines begins operating Beijing to Tel Aviv route

Don’t miss the boat...

China’s Hainan Airlines started operating a direct Beijing-Tel Aviv route the week of May 8, joining the Israeli airline El Al as one of the only two airlines operating an Israel-China route. Currently, Hainan will only operate the route three times per week, but eventually the airline expects to include a flight route from Shanghai and Hong Kong through its sister airline Hong Kong Airlines.

Fear

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Continued from page 6

and carried out the mass murder of Jews and others. Pritzker did not name perpetrators of hate speech, but she noted rising feelings of insecurity among Hispanic and Muslim Americans, who have been the targets of broadsides by the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump. “Do we sit with our arms folded while words are used to dehumanize other human beings?” she asked. Pritzker, the scion of a Chicago hotel family, was one of Obama’s first backers. Also speaking was Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer, who identified some extremes of anti-Israel rhetoric in present-day Europe, including in some cases in governments, with the anti-Jewish rhetoric that preceded the rise of the Nazis.