Syr0624 by Jewish Federation of CNY

28 SIVAN 5774 • JUNE 26, 2014 • VOLUME XXXVIII, NUMBER 13 • PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID, SYRACUSE, NY

and Chuckie Holstein. Holstein emphasized that the Campaign is “not over yet,” and pledges are still being accepted from those who have not made up their minds or who are interested in increasing their gifts. Linda Alexander, Federation president/ CEO, said, “There is hope for our community – and it’s not just in dollars. For years, we have suffered under the cloud of our changing demographics – all we heard is ‘woe is me,’ our community is shrinking – but, the truth is that not a week goes

Israel Scouts

“teach, learn and create friendships.” Organizers said they are “delighted to share this experience” with the Central New York community. The shows in Central New York are made possible with funds provided by the State and Local Partnership Program of the New York State Council on the Arts, through its decentralization initiative administrated locally by CNY Arts. The Jewish Federation of Central New York, the Pomeranz, Shankman and Martin Charitable Foundation and individual donors also help make the programming possible. To become a sponsor for a performance, make a donation or for more information, contact Chairs Melinda and Bud Greenman at 457-7201.

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ment against Israel,” the American Jewish Committee’s executive director, David Harris, said in a statement. “The MLA’s repudiation of the BDS effort is yet another failure of those who have maliciously tried to use the American campus to delegitimize the state of Israel.” In December, the membership of the American Studies Association endorsed its national council’s call for a boycott of Israeli universities.

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ment to “contest Israel’s denials of entry to the West Bank by U. S. academics who have been invited to teach, confer, or do research at Palestinian universities.” The Israel Action Network applauded the MLA’s membership for refusing to ratify the resolution, which it called “baseless and discriminatory.” Geri Palast, the Israel Action Network’s managing director, praised “the academic community for coming together to uphold principles of academic freedom and fairness, and for setting the record straight on this complex issue. Israel does not violate academic freedom, but rather, implements reasonable security measures expected of any country.” “Reason and truth have triumphed over the hatred and hypocrisy at the core of the BDS (boycott, divestment, sanctions) move-

2014 Campaign now stands at $1,002,916

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The 2014 Tzofim Friendship Caravan will perform in Central New York beginning Monday, July 28.

MLA members do not pass resolution critical of Israel

By JTA staff Members of the Modern Language Association did not pass a resolution criticizing Israel for denying academics entry to the West Bank. The numbers of those who voted in favor of the measure fell short of the minimum 10 percent of the full MLA membership of 23,900 whose support was needed in order for it to pass. There were 1,560 votes in favor of ratification of the resolution and 1,063 votes against ratification, meaning that the vote fell short of ratification by 830 votes, the MLA announced on June 4. The six-week-long voting cycle ended on June 1. The full membership was voting on a resolution passed in January by the MLA’s delegate assembly. The 60-53 vote approved a measure calling on the U.S. State Depart-

by that I don’t hear about someone’s child returning to our community. There are many young Jewish families who have come to our community. They may stay under the radar, but our challenge is to reach out to them and find a way to become relevant to their lives, and to involve them in our Jewish community. We’re ready to take on that challenge!” To make a pledge, contact Marianne Bazydlo at 445-2040, ext. 102, or mbazydlo@ jewishfederationcny.org. Payment is not due until December.

The Central New York Chapter of Friends of Israel Scouts will once again bring the Tzofim Friendship Caravan to Central New York in July. The caravan’s first show will be held at the Binghamton Jewish Community Center on Monday, July 28, at 7 pm. The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse will showcase the Tzofim Friendship Caravan on Wednesday, July 30, at 7 pm. The caravan will perform at Menorah Park on Thursday, July 31, at 2 pm. The last local performance will be held at the Utica Jewish Community Federation of the Mohawk Valley on Thursday, July 31, at 7 pm. Since 1985, the Central New York Chapter of Friends of Israel Scouts has been welcoming the Tzofim Friendship Caravan to the area. The 2014 caravan is named Katzir. The caravan is said to “strive toward a better society” so that there will be “a strong connection” between the people of Israel and the U.S. Through song and dance, conversations and activities, the Tzofim Friendship Caravan teaches the audience about Israel. The show presents Israel’s people, cultures, heritage and landmarks. The caravan’s mission is to

“We did it!”

have more money to fund programs and the work its beneficiary agencies perform. Holstein said, “This is an especially impressive achievement, as most Jewish communities are struggling to increase donations with shrinking Campaigns. Last year’s Campaign totaled around $962,000; so this increase is significant.” Holstein then thanked all of the people who he said helped make the Campaign successful: the Federation staff, volunteers and donors, the Campaign Advisory Committee and Honorary Co-Chairs Alex

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The Jewish Federation of Central New York 2014 Annual Campaign has reached a goal of $1 million. Phil Holstein, 2014 Campaign chair, reported the “fantastic news” that the Central New York Jewish community pulled together and $1 million in annual pledges have been made to the Annual Campaign. He added that a last-minute push before the Federation’s annual meeting saw a number of new donors, as well as donors who increased their pledges, some by “significant” amounts. The result is that Federation will

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To make your pledge, contact Marianne at 445-2040 ext. 102 or mbazydlo@jewishfederationCNY.org.

C A N D L E L I G H T I N G A N D P A R AS H A June 27......................8:30 pm.............................................................Parasha-Chukkat July 4.........................8:29 pm..................................................................Parasha-Balak July 11.......................8:26 pm.............................................................. Parasha-Pinchas July 18.......................8:22 pm................................................................Parasha-Mattot July 25.......................8:16 pm................................................................ Parasha-Masei

INSIDE THIS ISSUE JCC camp

Na’amat

Congregational notes

The JCC offers Camp Rishon and The local chapter of Na’amat will Synagogues to hold a family picnic. teams up with Camp Poyntelle hold a potluck to welcome new an adult education walk; and an Lewis Village, members on July 24. annual meeting. Story on pages 3 ,5 Story on page 3 Story on page 4

PLUS A Matter of Opinion.................. 2 Home & Real Estate.................. 6 Calendar Highlights.................. 7 Obituaries.................................... 7

JEWISH OBSERVER ■ june 26, 2014/28 SIVAN 5774

a matter of opinion Our successes and our failures

Yasher koach to our community! We reached our 2014 Federation Campaign goal of $1 million. It has been a number of years since we reached that million dollar mark, so this success is especially sweet! We have also been able to give out more money to the community and to our overseas partners than we have for years. We increased the allocations to our largest beneficiary agencies by five percent and expect to have a generous Community Program Fund this fall to make grants available to all our Jewish organizations and synagogues. We have given out more overnight Jewish camp scholarships this year, a total of 24, including seven first-time campers. Last year at this time we graduated

from the desk of the federation president/ceo linda alexander the first Young Leadership Class in eight years, and I’m proud to say that we have a new class already under way. This is our future! All the above is our success. So what is our failure? Sadly, we failed to get any Campaign gift from 1,136 households in our Jewish community. Despite calls on Super Sunday

and numerous letters and requests, more than a thousand of your neighbors and friends have decided not to support our Federation Campaign with one red cent. That is the dirty little secret that I feel obligated to reveal. So now I try to understand why. Is it that, despite the fact that they haven’t given a gift, the JCC hasn’t closed its doors... the

Hebrew Day School and Rabbi Epstein High School haven’t shut down... the Jewish Observer is still being delivered.... the Kosher Meals on Wheels program is still in full bloom? They may be thinking that we don’t need their gift after all! Wrong! We are a community, and a community needs each and everyone to participate. We have a collective responsibility for each other; it’s part of our DNA and it is why we have survived for more than 5,000 years. I am sorry to have to tamper our happiness in reaching our million dollar goal with this downer, but it is my responsibility to speak truth to power, to tell it like it is. We have many to thank for our success, but many also yet to reach.

a matter of opinion Ellen Weinstein – Roth Award speech

Ellen Weinstein gave a speech on June 16 at the combined annual meetings of the Jewish Federation of Central New York, The Syracuse Hebrew Day School and the Rabbi Jacob H. Epstein High School of Jewish Studies. Weinstein received the 2014 Esther and Joseph Roth Award in Recognition of Outstanding Jewish Community Leadership. I am deeply honored to receive the Esther and Joseph Roth Award for Outstanding Jewish Community Leadership and feel privileged to join the ranks of those previously recognized, many of whom are here tonight and all of whom are listed on the back of your program. I ask each of those present to please stand and be recognized: Linda Alexander, Rabbi Daniel A. Jezer, Marci Erlebacher, Barbara Davis, Alexander Holstein, Cantor Francine Berg, Susan Case DeMari, Philip L. Holstein and Michael Balanoff. Tonight’s award is as much yours as mine; you are all incredible role models and an inspiration to us all. I thank the selection committee and the Roth family for this recognition, and the Jewish Federation of Central New York for the opportunity to serve. I thank my husband and best friend, Howard, who, for the past 46-plus years has been the wind beneath my wings in all things; and my children, grandchildren and parents for teaching me the true meaning of unconditional love. I accept this award, in part, on behalf of my parents, because it is they who instilled in me at a very early age, through word and deed, the importance and joy of being involved in one’s community. For those fortunate enough to have known my mom, of blessed memory, you know that she was an incredible person – truly a woman of valor, conviction, commitment and action. My parents were not people of great material means, but they were indeed wealthy. They gave so much of themselves and benefitted a hundredfold over. They taught me the meaning of perseverance and hard work, and while I could be personally successful if I worked hard, they stressed the measure of true success is not the size of your bank account, the type of car you drive or the size of the house you live in. Rather, it is how we relate to those around us, the number of people we touch for the better and how our community benefits from our being a part of it. They also taught me that by coming together as a community, we can accomplish great things – the energy and enthusiasm of joint efforts serve as a catalyst for good which not only benefits the community, but enriches our soul. They taught me to appreciate all that I have, and to understand that with each blessing comes responsibility. Their wisdom and example provided a lens through which to see the world. We are on this earth for a relatively short period of time and we must make each day count

in as many meaningful ways as possible. As stewards, we are obligated to leave this world a better place than we found it, or at least to make the effort. Like Esther and Joe Roth, my parents’ understanding of tzedakah, tikkun olam and l‘dor v’dor was woven into the very fabric of their lives. They truly believed that by exercising our shared responsibility to heal, repair and transform the world, each one of us is personally stronger and healthier and our community more vibrant and sustainable. We here in this room tonight are examples of that. We come together wearing many different hats; we may belong to different synagogues, our children may attend different schools, we may be active in different organization – we each have our own spheres or circles in which we travel – but we all intersect at one time or another. And, it is at those intersections and interlinks that we are at our best. How appropriate that Federation, the day school and the Hebrew high are sharing this evening. Young and old and in between, coming together – truly l‘dor v’dor – how can we not feel the energy and how can we not succeed? Being active in Federation has offered me an opportunity to meet and work with so many wonderful people and has afforded me the opportunity to give back. As I said earlier, each of us wears many hats. In addition to our family and professional obligations, we volunteer our time, effort and money to many wonderful causes. Whether this is because of being directly impacted by the agencies we support or because we are moved by their respective missions, we all have our favorites. It is understandable and admirable. But what I find most special about Federation and why I devote so much of my volunteer time to this organization is because of its very definition: As a Federation we are a union, a coalition bringing together our relatively small, yet very diverse, Jewish community, working together to meet the challenge of financially supporting programs and services offered by our agencies and institutions. The basis for my involvement in Federation hinges not on whether I personally engage in each and every program and service offered; but rather, it is affirmed by the fact that even though we are a relatively small Jewish community, thanks to the collaborative efforts of so many, our beneficiary agencies and organizations are able to provide a broad spectrum of services and programs to meet the needs of our community – from providing for the most vulnerable and those in crisis, to the pure joy of community celebrations and everything in between. We can be proud that our community includes a quality Hebrew day school, a Hebrew high school, a highly utilized Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service, a kosher nursing home and

L-r: Howard Weinstein; Linda Alexander, president/CEO of Jewish Federation of Central New York; Ellen Weinstein; and Weinstein’s daughter, Lisa, posed after Ellen received the 2014 Esther and Joseph Roth Award in Recognition of Outstanding Jewish Community Leadership. kosher residential group home, a Jewish cemetery association, a Judaic Heritage Center, Jewish Music and Cultural Festival, Friends of Israel Scouts, Hillel, a mikvah, a

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va’ad and even an eruv. This speaks volumes to our desire and commitment to be a “full service” Jewish community. Having these See “Speech” on page 6 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.

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AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK Na’amat to welcome new and prospective members at July 24 potluck The local chapter of Na’amat U.S.A. will hold its annual dairy and pareve potluck dinner for current and new members on Thursday, July 24, at 5 pm, at the home of Pam Morris in Fayetteville. Prospective members are welcome to attend. In addition to having dinner and socializing, board members will brainstorm future programming ideas with participants. The potluck dinner is one of several programs held by the chapter each year. The group’s larger purpose is to provide

support for the educational, legal, child care, resettlement and related needs of Israeli women and children. Reservations are requested by Monday, July 14, and can be made by calling Morris at 637-9413. New and prospective members will be welcome with or without a dish to share. Anyone planning to bring a dish should call Morris to tell her what they will prepare. Veteran members not bringing a dish may opt to make a monetary contribution toward other event expenses.

The Oaks Holds “Buddy BBQ”

The Weinberg Disability Group gathered for a “Buddy BBQ” at The Oaks on June 10. The group participated in a program featuring food, music and fellowship. This and other activities are funded by the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation. The group’s next outing is scheduled for Sunday, August 10, for a Syracuse Chiefs baseball game. To receive invitations to events, contact Jan Edwards, director at The Oaks at Menorah Park, at 449-3309 or JEdwards@menorahparkcny.com.

JEWISH OBSERVER

Kosher dinner at The Oaks By Stewart Koenig

The Oaks at Menorah Park will present another in a series of kosher gourmet dinners on Sunday, July 13. The Twilight Pan American dinner will begin with cocktails at 5 pm, followed by dinner at 6 pm. The five-course gourmet meal will feature entree choices featuring South American styles. Reservations for the Twilight Pan American dinner have been requested by Friday, July 7. Oaks Executive Director Jan Edwards said, “We’re putting out the call to all foodies. This is scrumptious kosher gourmet food in a beautiful and friendly setting. Bring your friends and have a wonderful evening.” The July 13 gathering will be the first of three upcoming gourmet kosher dining events, with an “afternoon delight dessert party” on Sunday, August 10, at 4 pm, and a kosher Italian gourmet dinner on Sunday, September 21, at 5 pm. The Oaks is located at 18 Arbor Lane, DeWitt. For reservations and pricing information, contact The Oaks at 449-3309 or jparish@menorahparkcny.com.

S E N I L D A E D Deadlines for all articles and photos for the Jewish Observer are as follows. No exceptions will be made.

At right, l-r: David Elias and Rabbi Evan Shore ate dinner at The Oaks during the Weinberg Disability Group “Buddy BBQ.”

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Wednesday, July 9................................. July 24 Wednesday, July 23............................. August 7 Wednesday, August 6........................ August 21 Wednesday, August 20...................September 4

JCC summer camp By Nick Finlayson The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse offers programs year-round for individuals of all ages and interests. Founded on Jewish ethics and values, the JCC is said to serve as “a place for everyone” across Central New York. In the summer, its Camp Rishon offers more than eight weeks of 35 differently-themed camps. Instead of sitting at home playing video games or watching TV, campers at the JCC can spend the day playing sports on the lawn, swimming in the heated pool or participating See “Summer” page 7

JCC car wash By Nick Finlayson Children in the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center’s after school program held a car wash fund-raiser on May 21. “We appreciate the continued support from the community year after year for this event. It’s fund-raisers like this that contribute to the great success of our program,” said Katie Sutliff, director of JCC children’s, teens and camps. The proceeds will be used for program scholarships.

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congregational notes Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas CBS-CS summer family picnic Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas will hold its seventh annual family summer barbecue on Sunday, July 13, from noon3:30 pm at Jamesville Beach Pointed Tent shelter area. In addition to a kosher barbecue lunch prepared by the CBS-CS Men’s Club, there will be swimming and games. Past participants have been said to have enjoyed the event regardless of the weather. The barbecue will be open to families, as well as others. Reservations have been requested and may be made by contacting the CBS-CS office at 446-9570 or office@ cbscs.org. The first 15 families to make a reservation will receive reduced parking passes. The event will be sponsored by the CBSCS Youth Committee and Men’s Club. Judaism and nature Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra

Leah Eve Jezer-Nelson helped Myah Pettiford at one of nine stations at the Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas relational Torah Shavuot program.

Temple Adath Yeshurun Adult Education Chavurah walks By Sonali Eaton The Temple Adath Yeshurun adult education chavurah will hold its first walk of the season on Sunday, June 29, along the Onondaga Creekwalk. The walk will begin at 10 am, and the group will meet behind the MOST at the Armory Square trail head between Walton and West Jefferson Streets. Following the walk, brunch will be served at the home of Barbara and David Simon. A second walk has been scheduled for Sunday, August 3, at 10 am, at Mill Run Park, which is located at the end of Mill Street, off West Seneca Street and Flume Road in Manlius. A brunch sponsored by Robin and Steven Sisskind will be held at the pavilion following the walk. Committee Co-Chair David Simon said, “The walks allow participants to exercise and enjoy the varied scenery of Central New York in a congenial atmosphere, and then socialize over brunch. Last year we scheduled two walks, one along the Erie Canal and one in Cazenovia, and they were so successful we were asked to repeat the program this summer at different locations.” The adult education chavurah welcomes the community members to participate. Reservations are requested and can be made by e-mailing AdultEd@adath.org or calling 445-0002, ext. 123. Sisterhood book discussion The Sisterhood of Temple Adath Yeshurun will host a discussion on “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd on Wednesday, July 9, at 7:30 pm. The book is set in early 19th-century Charleston, and the story follows the lives of urban slave Hetty “Handful” Grimke and her owner, Sarah Grimke, throughout a span of 35 years. The

novel looks at American history through women and their struggles for liberation, empowerment and expression. Book discussions are an initiative of the TAY Sisterhood and are open to the community. Matthew Lynne to Receive Yellin Award By Sonali Eaton Matthew Lynne, son of Howard and Margo Lynne, of Jamesville, will receive the Samuel and Jeanette Yellin Scholarship award at Temple Adath Yeshurun on Saturday, July 12. He is the grandson of Elinor and the late Solomon Lynne, and Matthew Lynne Linda and Ed Lasher. Matthew attends the Rabbi Jacob Epstein High School of Jewish Studies, is an active member of USY and plays saxophone in the Shabbat in the Round band. For the past two summers, he has gone to USY encampment and is said to be looking forward to going again this upcoming summer. He is also said to be anticipating a trip to Israel planned for February with other students from Epstein. Recently, Matthew was elected to and accepted a position as Israel affairs vice president for the Temple Adath chapter of USY. TAY Director of Education Shannon Small said, “Matthew Lynne was chosen for the Yellin award because he represents a young person who lives the message of Temple Adath Yeshurun. He attended TAY’s Religious School, where he was an important member of the classroom See “TAY” on page 8

Temple Adath Yeshurun held its 91st annual confirmation service on June 14. Front row (l-r): Elinor Anbar, daughter of Hannah and Ran Anbar; Emma Stein, daughter of Cindy and Jeffrey Stein; Zoë Hylan, daughter of Alison and Michael Bronstein; and Esa Jaffe, baalat tefilah. Back row: Rabbi Charles Sherman; Sam Clymer, son of Brenda Sannes and Steven Clymer; and Jesse and William Johnson, sons of Karen Docter and George Johnson.

Shas is planning a series of programs focused on Judaism and nature during the summer. Participants will learn about Judaism and birds of the Torah on Tuesday, July 8 and 15, at 7 pm. Krista Rozanski, a student at SUNY College of Environmental Forestry and Science, will teach about the role birds have played in Judaism and how they are seen today. Common bird species in the area will be discussed in preparation of a birding field trip on Sunday, July L-r: Sarah Saulson and Sid Lipton looked at the unrolled 20, at 7:30 am at Clark Res- Torah while Mark Field (on right edge of photo) spoke about the Torah and Israel at the Congregation Beth ervation. Rozanski will also teach Sholom-Chevra Shas Shavuot celebration. two classes on Judaism and office@cbscs.org. the environment on Tuesdays, July 22 Additionally, Rabbi Andrew Pepperstone and 29, at 7 pm. She is also planning to will discuss Judaism on Sunday, August 17, lead a day trip to the Adirondack Park at 10 am at the Stone Quarry Hill Art Park on Sunday, August 3, to climb Giant in Cazenovia. The discussion will be held Mountain. For more information, con- in a natural setting, inspired by art from tact the CBS-CS office at 446-9570 or the park.

Temple Concord Temple Concord annual meeting By Cheri Lass At Temple Concord’s annual meeting on June 6, three awards were given to congregants with many years of volunteer service to the synagogue. Allan Kossoff, who has chaired the Facilities Committee for many years, received the Volunteer of the Year award. Michael Kalet received the President’s award for his service on the Board of Trustees, Executive Board and numerous committees. The Margie Markson Johnson Heart and Soul Award was presented to Chuckie and Alex Holstein, who have served the synagogue and community for decades. The Holstein family dates back to the early days of Temple Concord. The Board of Trustee candidates were presented to the congregation and unanimously elected to their designated terms. They included Vicki Feldman, Lou Orbach, Scott Saroff, Sandy Smith, Kim Smolen, Steve Volinsky, Josh Waldman and Jan White. TC President Irv Bodofsky and Rabbi Daniel Fellman reported “an excellent year” of programming, financial improvement and facility improvements, and forecast more positive developments next year. With the hiring of Cantor and educator Kari Siegel Eglash, Bodofsky said, “Next year, our worship services will ring with music and song that will enrich our spirituality and our connection to Adonai; our children’s knowledge and understanding of our religion will be enriched; and our knowledge and under-

standing of our religion and culture will be expanded.” Brotherhood Essay Contest Nathan G. Bostick, son of Janine Bostick, received the Temple Concord Brotherhood essay award on June 3. His subject was, “What is the value of being a Jew in today’s world?” and he began his essay saying, “...[it] is the ability to accept modern values in conjunction with traditional values through tolerance to shape one’s self and others into a coexistent community.” Todd Engel announced and gave Bostick the award. Temple Concord Confirmation Temple Concord recently celebrated its 131st confirmation service. The confirmands – Dimitri “‘Dima” Bilyarchyk, Nathan Bostick, Geo Engel, Jacob Garrow, and Allison Muller – led a service celebrating Shavuot and the giving of Torah. Students spoke of their connection to Judaism, and also shared their views on the Ten Commandments. The Best Confirmand award was given for the 30th year as well. This year’s honoree, Bilyarchyk, is an exchange student from Munich, Germany, who has spent the year living with the Garrow family. In choosing to be a part of synagogue life he noted that “the Jewish bonds stretch beyond the borders of countries or continents.” All the confirmands expressed a desire to continue their involvement in Temple Concord, through continued learning, serving as madrichim in the religious school or through activities with TYCON, the TC youth group.

L-r: Brotherhood President Todd Engel gave Nathan Bostick the Brotherhood essay award on June 3 for his essay on the value of being a Jew in today’s world. Also on the bima were confirmands Dimitri Bilyarchyk and Allison Muller.

JUNE 26, 2014/28 SIVAN 5774 ■

JEWISH OBSERVER

Mensch of the Year Awards considered “a resounding success” for Temple Concord Temple Concord’s first Mensch of the Year awards dinner on June 1 was considered “a rousing success” by the event’s organizers, with a full house at the University Sheraton to honor four people that are said to “regularly contribute to the better good of the Central New York community, the nation and the world,” and to raise funds

for the synagogue. The honorees included Heisman Trophy runner-up-turned-social-activist Don McPherson; Linda Alexander, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Central New York; community and spiritual leader Reverend Bill Redfield; and Marvin Goldenberg, benefactor of Temple Concord’s

L-r: Temple Concord Rabbi Daniel Fellman posed with event Co-Chair Vicki Feldman, who held with the crystal “Mensch” award, and honoree Reverend Bill Redfield, who held his “Mensch” cap.

JCC teams up with Camp Poyntelle Lewis Village By Nick Finlayson The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse will offer a program for families with children seeking their first overnight camp session this summer. Through the JCC, Camp Poyntelle Lewis Village, a kosher camp in Poyntelle, PA, just south of the New York State border, will feature an overnight option, from July 6-13, to children not yet ready for a trip away from home. Registration will be open

Regina Goldenberg Cultural Series. The awards were presented by people chosen by the honorees. Each honoree also had the opportunity to say a few words about their cause and to thank those who have influenced or helped them. The event was emceed by local radio celebrity “Big Mike” Fiss of SUNNY-102, with the program’s entertainment by comedian Joel Chasnoff, whose Jewish humor

kept the audience laughing for a full hour. Event chair Vicki Feldman said, “We met our goals, which were to recognize people that make a difference, give our audience a super fun evening that was not just another boring awards event and to raise money for Temple Concord and its great programs. We’re already planning next year’s Mensch Awards, which will be even better.”

Temple Concord’s Mensch of the Year awards dinner was held on June 1. L-r: Cochairs Vicki Feldman and Victoria Kohl with honorees Reverend Bill Redfield, Don McPherson, Marvin Goldenberg and Linda Alexander. (Photos by Mark Kotzin)

to children in third-seventh grade. Children are expected to benefit from having familiarity with some of their fellow campers and counselors, while camp counselors will already be familiar with the camper. The camp property has more than 600 acres of land where campers can participate in various activities. The camp’s culture is said to be designed around “kindness, independence, safety, collective and individual See “Village” on page 7

Children participated in a dance party inside the Poyntelle Dining Hall. The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse has partnered with sleep-away Camp Poyntelle Lewis Village, a kosher camp in Poyntelle, PA, as a first away-from-home experience for campers for a week in July.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ june 26, 2014/28 SIVAN 5774

d’var torah

Balaam’s ass

By Joan Burstyn I learned about Balaam and his talking donkey when I was a child and, until recently, I believed that I knew exactly what the story was about. However, when I examined it in detail for this d’var Torah, I discovered I was mistaken. The story has many implications. I can only deal with one of them here. The story begins when the children of Israel in the desert reach the boundaries of Moab. By then, Moses has trained the former slaves into a forceful army. A skillful commander, Moses has learned when to attack and when to negotiate with the tribes they encounter. In this week’s parasha, Balak, a ruler in Moab, knows the reputation of the Israelites. He has heard about the defeat of others who have

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institutions, programs and services available enriches each and every one of us by making our community stronger, more attractive, more enticing and more welcoming. Whether it is our seniors eating hearty meals, children with autism feeling welcome and included in summer camp and after-school programs, teenagers playing a game of basketball, communitywide holiday celebrations, college students maintaining their Jewish identity while acclimating to campus life or, a little further from home, but still integral and relevant to maintaining Jewish identity, survival and continuity, a Holocaust survivor in Kiev receiving a warm bowl of soup at a local community center; an EthiopianIsraeli father learning new job skills to better support his family; teens traveling to Israel for the first time, connecting with Jews from around the world: knowing that I am part of a Federation that can do so much for so many is so gratifying, fulfilling and rewarding in and of itself. To receive an award on top of that, is truly the icing on the cake. Thank you so much!

encountered them. Balak calls on Balaam, a soothsayer, to put a curse on the Israelites who are encamped close to his territory. According to the story, Balaam hesitates. “Give me till morning,” he says, “and I will consult God to see what I can do.” Balaam decides he will obey Balak’s wishes, saying that he will proclaim whatever God has told him to proclaim. On those terms, Balak prepares an altar with sacrifices, and Balaam travels to it, riding on the donkey he has ridden for years. On that ride, the donkey suddenly stops in her path, three times. We know why she stops because the storyteller tells us that she has come face to face with an armed angel. Balaam, himself, never sees the angel. The donkey, once she gains the power of speech, does not tell Balaam that there was an angel in her path. In fact, the donkey gives him no reason at all for why she stopped. Her words are directed to a different issue. So, the information that we, the readers, “know” about the angel comes entirely from what the storyteller has told us. Indeed, the construct of the angel is central to all the biblical and rabbinic interpretations of the story: the appearance of the angel, armed to attack an enemy, illustrates God’s love and care for the people of Israel. Rabbi Diane Aronson Cohen, in “The Women’s Torah Commentary: New Insights from Women Rabbis on the 54 Weekly Torah Portions,” focuses the readers’ attention not on the angel obstructing the donkey, but on the behavior toward the donkey of the man sitting on her. What does the story tell us about Balaam’s behavior then? At first, the donkey turns off the road into a field and “Balaam beat the ass to turn her back onto the road.” Next time the donkey, in a narrow space between two fences, pushes up against one of them hurting Balaam’s leg. Balaam strikes the donkey again. When encountering the angel a third time, in an even narrower space, the donkey collapses under Balaam “and Balaam was furious and beat the ass with his stick.”(Etz Hayyim, Numbers 22:27) At this point, God opens the mouth of the donkey and she asks Balaam, “What did I do to make you hit me three

times?” He replies, “Because of your impudence! If there had been a sword in my hand I would have killed you!” The donkey then replies, “Aren’t I the donkey you have ridden all your life until this day? Is this the kind of behavior you are used to from me?” He says, “No.” Rabbi Diane Aronson Cohen is astonished at the absence of rabbinic concern about Balaam’s treatment of his donkey. She sees this neglect going far beyond the treatment of animals. “The commentators do not see the abuse, the venting of anger or frustration on an individual, human or animal, that has been part of one’s life.” Cohen condemns this blindness on the part of Jewish commentators and asks what teachings about the dangers of power – the dangers of a sense of empowerment – over animals and persons we might have learned had the rabbis taken up that topic. Cohen shows how the donkey’s question to Balaam – once she is granted the power of speech – serves two purposes. First, by challenging her abuser, the abused asserts her power. And, secondly, even to ask “Why are you doing this to me?” causes Balaam to stop. Balaam does not hit the donkey again. Nothing in their conversation provides Balaam with information about why the donkey stopped or why she collapsed, but he does not hit her again. Cohen continues, “The dialogue between [Balaam] and the donkey focuses only on his abuse and her refusal to accept it... [What] astonishing truth to find in Torah, a truth overlooked by generations of commentators. What we learn from the donkey is clear: if we are on the receiving end of any kind of abuse, we have an obligation to speak out against our abuser. Modern psychology tells us that whether or not saying ‘Stop!’ has an effect on the abuser, it does reduce the sense of helplessness in the one abused. Speak up. Speak out. Talk back to someone hurting you. Let them know that what they are doing is simply wrong.” (Cohen, “The Women’s Torah Commentary,” p. 304) I hope that Cohen’s commentary will lead each of us to See “Balaam” on page 7

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JUNE 26, 2014/28 SIVAN 5774 ■

Calendar Highlights

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.

Thursday, June 26 Temple Adath Yeshurun annual meeting at 7 pm Sunday, June 29 Forget-Me-Nots chorus at Menorah Park from 3-4:30 pm Wednesday, July 2 TAY Hazak meeting at 8:45 am Wednesday, July 9 Deadline for the July 24 issue of the Jewish Observer Tuesday, July 15 Fast of 17th of Tammuz Thursday, July 17 TAY Hazak dinner and music at 5 pm Monday, July 28 The Israel Scouts will perform at the Binghamton Jewish Community Center at 7 pm Wednesday, July 30 Lion of Judah event at 5:30 pm Israel Scouts will perform at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse at 7 pm

Village

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responsibility, leadership and confidence.” To separate age groups and programming, Camp Poyntelle Lewis Village holds two different age-specific camps on the property. Each week, campers will follow a daily schedule of chosen activities. JCC Director of Children and Teen Services, Camping and Inclusion Specialist Mick Hagan said, “Even though the JCC’s Camp Rishon offers many different camp options, it’s always nice to team up with other camps to offer even more to the children. Camp Poyntelle Lewis Village is a great fit for the JCC because it allows for our campers and some of our dedicated staff to take a week-long journey to this unique sleep-away camp. It is a great option for those who are not yet ready for a summer away from home. With the JCC being a Jewish facility, it’s nice to work with another premier residential summer camp program.” The camp aims to help members for making new friends while participating in athletics, arts, water activities and outdoor adventure under qualified staff supervisors already known by the children. Knowing that their child is being supervised by a familiar person might help alleviate parents’ concerns about a first-time overnight camp experience. Campers attending this camp will also take a field trip to a local water park in New York state. For more information, contact Hagan at the JCC at 445-2360 ext. 129.

Summer

JEWISH OBSERVER

obituaries Dora Libman Davis

Dora Davis, 95, died on June 4 at Menorah Park. Born in Lodz, Poland, she was one of eight children. She and her late husband, Nathan, were married in the Lodz ghetto, and were then separated in different concentration camps during the war. Nine months after the liberation, they found each other, but were the sole survivors of both of their large families. In 1949, they came to New York, and soon after settled in Syracuse, where they raised their family. She worked at the Saranat Restaurant for many years, and then at Drumlins Pharmacy. She was a lifetime member of Temple Beth El, its Sisterhood and Pioneer Women. She was predeceased by her husband, Nathan. She is survived by her children, Sarah (Mel) Charney and Jack (Regina) Davis; six grandchildren; and six greatgrandchildren. Burial was in the Beth El Cemetery. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions in Dora’s memory may be made to Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas, P.O. Box 271, DeWitt, NY 13214; or the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum at www.ushmm.org or 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl., S.W., Washington, DC 20024-2126. 

Balaam

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examine the text for more insights applicable to our lives today. For instance, we could discuss the implications for maintaining a civil society of Balaam’s comment on the donkey’s “impudence” and his statement that “If there had been a sword in my hand, I would have killed you!” Who has each one of us considered “impudent” at one time or another? What might we have done, at that moment to that person, had we had a weapon in our hand? These are issues that confront us as surely as they confronted Balaam. Joan N. Burstyn, professor emerita of education and history at Syracuse University, is a member of the adult education committee at Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas, and the advisory board of Women Transcending Boundaries. She is also a published poet.

Karen DeCrow

Karen DeCrow, 76, died on June 6 at home from melanoma. An attorney, writer, activist and feminist whose work included civil liberties advocacy, she was the third national president of the National Organization for Women, from 1974-77. Born Karen Lipschultz, she grew up in Chicago, earned a degree in journalism from Northwestern University and then attended a graduate journalism program and law school at Syracuse University. She was the first woman candidate for mayor in the state when she ran for mayor of Syracuse while still a law student. Inspired by the pay inequality between the genders, she joined NOW in 1967 and the organization’s national board a year later, remaining there until she became president. She targeted Ivy League schools to accept more female students, social groups to open up their male-dominated membership rolls and NASA to include more women in the space program. DeCrow advocated state ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment, passed by Congress in 1972, and lamented each time a state legislature voted against it. Continuing her advocacy after her presidency, she represented women in gender discrimination disputes and wrote a newspaper column. The American Civil Liberties Union honored her in 1985. She was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 2009. She is survived by her sister, Claudia Abt Lipshultz; and her cousins, Richard Abt and Vicki Abt. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements. 

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in everyday activities under qualified, adult supervision. The JCC’s certified lifeguards help every child safely enjoy the camp’s programs throughout the summer. This summer’s camp themes include puppetry, secret agent, gymnastics, theater, circus and rocketry camps, giving children numerous options. For those seeking to stay physically active, the camp also features several sporting activities, such as baseball, basketball, soccer and golf. For more specialized interests, there is fencing, horseback riding and fishing. The facility also has a state-of-the-art playground not seen elsewhere in the Central New York region. Installed in 2012, the Joshua Ian Davis and Scott Bryan Dubnoff Memorial Playground is built on a safe, wood-chipped surface, and offers three tiers of slides, swings and bridges. Teenagers in seventh-10th grade who like to travel can attend SyraCruisin’. Every week features three field trips to local and regional locations, and one day at the JCC’s The SPOT (Syracuse Project 4 Our Teens) in the Dick’s Sporting Goods wing of ShoppingTown Mall. The SPOT aims to provide a safe environment where teenagers can socialize with friends or play pool, air hockey or Nintendo Wii on big screen televisions. SyraCruisin’ also includes one community service day and four overnight trips throughout the summer. This summer the JCC’s Camp Rishon will place participants in a social, outdoor environment and involve them in activities intended to entertain while helping engage their minds and providing an inviting atmosphere. For more information or to take a tour of the JCC, contact Mick Hagan at 445-2360 or mhagan@jccsyr.org.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ june 26, 2014/28 SIVAN 5774

JMAC fund-raiser

An audience of fans of Jewish music attended the home of Karen Lawitts and Howard Wolhandler on June 8 for a fund-raising event to support the Jewish Music and Cultural Festival. While enjoying the hors d’oeuvres and desserts, guests listened to a musical performance by pianist Jonathan Dinkin, Cantor Robert Lieberman, violinist Judy Cohen Stanton, per-

cussionist Mark Wolfe and vocalist Aveeya Dinkin. All proceeds from the event will help keep JMAC free for all to attend. Planning is under way for the 15 th annual event, which will include some new features this year and will be held on Sunday, September 14, from noon-6 pm, at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse.

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L-r: Cantor Robert Lieberman, Mark Wolfe, Jonathan Dinkin, Judy Cohen Stanton and Aveeya Dinkin provided the entertainment at the Jewish Music and Cultural Festival fund-raiser on June 8. (Photos by Len Levy)

TAY

and contributed meaningfully during classroom discussions and activities. In addition, he has stood out at Epstein School of Jewish Studies as one of its premiere students.” The Samuel and Jeannette Yellin Scholarship Award is presented to a young person from Temple Adath Yeshurun for demonstration of Jewish values such as compassion, menschlekeit, responsibility, loyalty and friendship. Sam, a pharmacist from Eastern Europe, is said to have believed “very strongly” in Temple Adath Yeshurun and Jewish education for children and adults. He was known as a very active member of the TAY Men’s Club and the TAY seniors group, as well as “a highly-honored member” of the TAY Board of directors. Jeanette worked in the synagogue Judaica shop for many years. The Yellins were known as “shul-goers” and for them the synagogue was beit tefila, a house of prayer; a beit midrash, a house of study; and a beit knesset, a house of gathering. The community has been invited to join in the Shabbat celebration and in congratulating Matthew. Family Fun Night By Sonali Eaton Temple Adath Yeshurun will host a family game night on Sunday, July 13, at 4 pm. The intergenerational event will include family-friendly games for all ages: bingo, mah jongg and bunko. For younger attendees, there will be face painting, arts, crafts and a bounce house. There will be a dinner for adults and a hot dog dinner for the children. There will be a cost for the dinner, with a family maximum. Dinner will be served at 5:30 pm. Family Game Committee Co-Chair Steven Sisskind said, “We are trying to recreate a simpler time. We’re looking forward to getting together as an intergenerational com-

Continued from page 4

munity to enjoy wholesome family fun and then socialize over a casual dinner.” The evening will be open to community members. Reservations have been requested by Wednesday, July 2, and may be made by contacting the TAY office at info@adath. org or 445-0002. Hazak Pizza Party and Concert The Temple Adath Yeshurun chapter of Hazak will hold a pizza party on Thursday, July 17, at Trappers in East Syracuse. Members will meet for dinner and conversation at 5 pm. There will be a modest cost for the dinner. The group will attend a free concert by Timeline, a band that plays music of the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, at 6:30 pm at Ryder Park. Hazak is a group for people 55 years and older. For more information about the event or to make a reservation, e-mail JoAnn Grower at hazak@adath.org. Adult B’nai Mitzvah By Sonali Eaton Temple Adath Yeshurun held its adult b’nai mitzvah for eight members of the synagogue community on June 21. Jonathan Borsky, Ruth Borsky, Rena Cantor, Robin Ciciarelli, Norene Lavine, Carol Lipson, Barbara Nevid and Svetlana Stroganov were called to the Torah to recite the brachot, the blessings over the Torah, and they chanted the haftarah portion for 23 Sivan, from the book of I Samuel. Rabbi Charles Sherman said, “We extend a mazel tov to our celebrants. We admire their dedication and commitment to Jewish learning. They become our teachers in affirming the words of Torah we sing when we replace the Torah scroll in the ark.” The group has worked and studied with Sherman for nearly two years, learning tropes and Jewish text in preparation for the life cycle event. The morning concluded with a seudat Shabbat, an extended kiddush sponsored by the class.