August 29, 2019 issue of Jewish Observer Newspaper by Jewish Federation of CNY

28 AV 5779 • AUGUST 29, 2019 • VOLUME XXXX, NUMBER 17 • PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID, SYRACUSE, NY

What a year! 2019 Campaign reaches $1,297,228 BY MICHAEL BALANOFF In today’s frenetic world, people often feel disconnected or anxious about where they fit in. But at Federation, every Jew has a place, every Jew counts. No matter your age, affiliation, income or interests, whether you think of yourself as a religious Jew, cultural Jew or culinary Jew, Federation represents all the Jews of Central New York. The Federation’s annual Campaign is a reflection of the people who embrace the purpose of Federation and the varied people and causes it serves. This year, that embrace was large – in fact, larger than it has ever been. The 2019 Federation Campaign raised a record total of $1,297,228. This was almost $45,000 more than was raised last year and just shy of its $1.3 million goal.

Campaign Chair Neil Rube, the Campaign cabinet and our many other solicitors were passionate and committed. The community responded generously – even as our donor base gets smaller due to declining numbers and relocations. We are deeply grateful to all those who worked so hard and all those who gave so much to make the Campaign a success. More important than the total dollars raised are the diverse purposes for which Federation funds are allocated and the people who benefit from them. To those who wonder whether a federated Campaign has a place in these times of micro-management, customization and niche interests, I say the breadth and diversity of interests served by Federation are its strengths. Some recipients of Federation’s

JMAC to be held September 15 The 20th annual Syracuse Jewish Music and Cultural Festival will be held at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center campus on Thompson Road on Sunday, September 15, from noon-5:30 pm. One of the highlights of the day will be the return of local band Boichik, featuring Temple Concord Cantor Kari Siegel Eglash and Joe Eglash. The band will perform on the Price Chopper stage at 3 pm. Kids activities will include activities in the kids tent hosted by the Jewish Com-

munity Center; the Robert Rogers Puppet Theater; face painting; and PJ Library. Sponsors, who keep JMAC free of charge, include Price Chopper; the Dorothy and Marshall M. Reisman Foundation; Pomeranz, Shankman, Martin Charitable Foundation, Inc.; Jewish Federation of Central New York; Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center; a state grant secured by Senator John A. DeFrancisco; Paul B. and Georgina H. Roth Charitable Foundation; Jewish Observer; CNY Arts; M&T Bank; and KeyBank.

funds are lesser-known and receive modest grants, but if we wish to foster a robust, balanced community, they are as integral as the more widely recognized agencies that receive more. Our community rightly trusts Federation to see the big picture and provide funding to a wide array of worthwhile beneficiaries to ensure that the fabric of the Jewish community, and our people, remains tightly knit. The JCC is a great example of a beneficiary agency that offers something for every age and every stage of life. Child care, summer camps, after-school care, adult fitness and wellness, senior lunches and countless special programs are made possible with Federation support. Recognizing the fundamental importance of education and information has always been a hallmark of what it means to be a Jew. If your child is enrolled in the Syracuse Hebrew Day School or the Community Hebrew School or the Rabbi Jacob Epstein School of Jewish Studies, the Federation helps make that education possible. Federation supports the teachers in the community’s religious schools through SAJE (Syracuse Area Jewish Educators group), programming at Syracuse University’s Hillel, and the PJ Library® of free Jewish-content books for children. We also are critical to keeping the Jewish Observer operational so it can keep our community informed about important world events, opinions and community happenings; and the Community Happenings e-mails keep our community members informed about the myriad Jewish events and activities going on around town. The Community Calendar is an invaluable

resource for all who are making plans and want to ensure maximum turnout and minimum conflict in scheduling events. Federation dollars make it possible to offer uplifting cultural activities such as the Jewish Music and Cultural Festival, the annual Chanukah party and the eagerly-awaited Matzah Factory that pops up before Passover each year. Federation provides funding for the mikvah, the Judaic Heritage Center and the Syracuse Jewish Cemetery Association. Individuals and families with special needs are a major focus of Federation. Beit Tikvah, the only kosher group home in Central New York for young women with developmental disabilities, is supported by Federation. Yachad, the JCC’s camp inclusion program for school-age children with special needs, receives Federation support. Federation also supports the work of Syracuse Jewish Family Service, which acts as the human services arm of the Jewish community. SJFS is dedicated to holistic, preventive, wellness-oriented integration of social and human services offered without regard to race or creed to all residents of Central New York. Federation reaches out in many ways to the larger community, where our impact can be felt by those who are not Jewish. As a participant in InterFaith Works, Federation helps provide resettlement services to refugee families in Syracuse and actively engages in constructive dialogue to address community concerns and encourage understanding across racial, ethnic and religious differences. The Community Relations Committee realizes the Federation’s active See “Campaign” on page 5

Genius NY Competition winner is Israeli company, Civdrone state of Israel, the Technion is the BY JACKIE MIRON oldest university in the country Readers may be familiar and is ranked the best university with the Genius NY program in Israel and the Middle East. (www.geniousny.com), the Technion is “Israel’s prilargest business accelerator mary source of technological competition in the country for manpower,” whose graduates the unmanned aerial systems “have brought the unique skills (drones) industry. Syracuse. and penchant for innovation com has published multiple arwhich helped conceive and ticles since the program started Jackie Miron consolidate the modern state four years ago. One of the Genius NY Competition of Israel – commonly acknowledged to winners (one of five winners chosen from be the ‘Start-up Nation.’” A recent meeting with Muller revealed 350 applicants), the first and only Israeli company in the competition, Civdrone facts and figures about the first four (civdrone.com), has been up and running months of operation in Syracuse. He said in the Tech Garden on Harrison Street for Civdrone’s product is “a device that turns several months. The founders are two commercially available drones into land 31-year-old entrepreneurs, Liav Muller surveying, measuring and marking maand Tom Yeshurun, who studied engineer- chines for construction sites.” The industry ing at The Technion – Israel Institute of of surveying, measuring and marking has Technology, a public research university been done manually for a long time and in Haifa, Israel. They also run Civdrone, is prone to inefficiency and error. Muller continued, “Construction which is based in Tel Aviv. Established in 1912 during the Ottoman projects require precision, and Civdrone Empire and more than 35 years before the solves the problem by going beyond initial

site work by monitoring the project using the GPS system that is part of the drone throughout the project.” When asked how these young gentlemen feel about Syracuse, they said, “There has been so much travel to and from Syracuse and Israel that it has been tough to spend a lot of time getting to

know the area. We have been staying in hotels and Airbnbs and using Uber. We have a lot of time to collaborate with the other Genius NY winners as we share the office space, and CenterState (the partner in the project with New York state) has been wonderful and helpful.” See “Winner” on page 7

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August 30........................ 7:25 pm...................................................... Parashat Re’eh September 6.................... 7:13 pm................................................. Parashat Shotftim September 13....................... 7 pm.................................................. Parashat Ki Tetze

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Kids’ fitness classes

Summer concerts

Congregational notes

The JCC announces kids’ fitness Two of the speeches given at the Local synagogues announce and recreation classes will start 75th anniversary celebration of movie showings, a gaming group, Safe Haven are reprinted. the week of September 9. apple picking and more. Stories on page 3 Story on page 2 Stories on page 4

PLUS Fall Home & Real Estate....4-5 Classifieds................................ 6 D’var Torah............................... 6 Calendar Highlights............... 7

JEWISH OBSERVER ■ AUGUST 29, 2019/28 AV 5779

Kids’ fitness and recreation classes start week of September 9

BY WILLIAM WALLAK Autumn dance, gymnastics, sports and other classes for children will soon be starting up again at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse, 5655 Thompson Rd., DeWitt. The weekday classes, open to preschool and school-age boys and girls, begin the week of September 9 and are designed to get children moving and having fun. The classes will run through November. “We’re offering another great lineup of classes this fall for kids of all abilities,” said Sherri Lamanna, JCC director of gymnastics, dance and preschool physical education. “We make it fun, while also teaching the children a lot of great skills and other important lessons, such

JCC gymnast Katrina Hardee demonstrated a split. Fitness classes start the week of September 9. as cooperation and teamwork.” Ballet, jazz and tap dance classes for children ages 3-12 focus on movement,

rhythm, strength and flexibility while emphasizing fun, creativity and self-esteem. The program will conclude with a recital next spring. Gymnastics classes, for children of all skill levels, ages 3-14, utilize the bars, beam, floor and vault. A comprehensive regimen of instruction helps children develop agility, flexibility and self-confidence. Placement in the classes is based on skill rather than age. Also offered is a sensory gym class for 3-5-year-olds providing appropriate sensory input for children of all abilities and developmental levels. The JCC’s sports classes, consisting of karate, rookie sports and pre-kindergarten soccer, are for children ages 3-12. Each

sport’s specific skills are taught along with teamwork, fair play, sportsmanship and conditioning. The JCC has once again partnered with the CNY Karate School to offer the karate classes. Enrollment for all classes is open to the community and will continue through the start of each class. JCC membership is not required, however, members receive a discount. Busing for school-age children attending classes is available from some Syracuse city schools, select private schools, F-M schools and all public schools within the Jamesville-DeWitt School District. For more information about the JCC’s classes for children, contact Lamanna at 315-445-2040, ext. 126, or slamanna@ jccsyr.org, or visit www.jccsyr.org.

JCC concludes another successful summer camp season BY WILLIAM WALLAK The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center wrapped up another eight-week summer day camp season last week. Hundreds of campers ranging in age from infants to school-age children to teens descended upon the JCC campus from July 1-August 23 for the

JCC’s Camp Joe and Lynne Romano. “Summer camp was a huge success again this year,” said Pamela Ranieri, JCC director of children’s programming. “The children were great. They were so full of energy and enthusiasm each day. We also had a wonderful group of camp counselors who kept the children

JCC school-age campers got creative and had fun during painting camp. L-r: Sydney Kanter (back facing the camera), Ella Kanfer, Shayna Nellis, Anna Congelli and Ayesha Aslam, counselor-in-training.

At left: Some campers in the JCC’s SyraCruisin’ teen travel camp took a moment for a photo during their trip to Green Lakes State Park. L-r: Wyatt Weiss, Jacob Mone, Maddie Carter, Mackenzie R u s h f o rd , M a x Selmser and Matthew Congelli.

Rabbi Jacob H. Epstein School of Jewish Studies Make lifelong friends Transform your world through Tikkun Olam/Social Action Learn how to make Jewish choices in today's world Delve into 3,500 years of Jewish texts Join us for great classes and new electives! Register now at EpsteinCNY.org Opening night is Sept. 3 at 6:30 for grades 8-12 at CBS-CS For more information please visit us at: Epsteincny.org Twitter @epsteincny • Facebook at facebook.com/epsteincny Or email us at epsteincny@gmail.com The Rabbi Jacob H. Epstein School of Jewish Studies, Inc. admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin in all the rights and programs, and activities at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, scholarship programs, and other school administered programs.

engaged and created some great times for our campers.” From arts and crafts, games, late nights, swimming and sports to field trips and more, there was plenty of “fun and excitement” to go around for all JCC campers. “Here at the JCC, summer camp is all about the children,” said Ranieri. “We go the extra mile to make each day a fun and safe experience in order to create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. There’s nothing like summer camp at the JCC.”

JCC early childhood camper Nathan Rosenberg took a ride down the slip and slide.

At right: JCC school-age campers in the Nitzanim camp participated in a singing and dancing exercise led by this year’s JCC Israel Scouts, Hadar Lidij and Hila Nitzan (shown in their uniforms at the top of the circle).

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AUGUST 29, 2019/28 AV 5779 ■

JEWISH OBSERVER

AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK Na’amat and Safe Haven Refugee Center BY ELLEN WEINSTEIN These are the comments that Ellen Weinstein, current chair of the board of the Jewish Federation of Central New York, delivered at the 75th anniversary celebration on August 5 of the day when 982 European refugees came to Oswego, “where the Holocaust came to America,” and those refugees were offered a “Safe Haven.” As a life member of Na’amat USA, and chair of the board of the Jewish Federation of Central New York, it is my privilege and pleasure to add to today’s narrative by sharing Na’amat USA’s involvement with the memorialization of the Safe Haven experience and to give credit to those extraordinary women, of blessed memory, who were instrumental in bringing to fruition the recognition of this shelter as the only haven established in the United States for those escaping the Holocaust. Na’amat USA, formerly known as Pioneer Women, and for purposes of today’s remarks will be referenced interchangeably, is a not-for-profit volunteer organization that partners with Na’amat Israel to provide vital educational and social services for women, children and families in need in Israel – Jewish and non-Jewish alike.

It was in the spring of 1981 when Belle Shriro, a member of the Syracuse chapter of Pioneer Women, met Esther Kaidanow at the organization’s Eastern Area Conference in Baltimore. Playing Jewish geography, as is typical when Jews get together, Belle learned of their Central New York connection. Belle, a native Syracusan, had a memory of the shelter’s existence. But it was Esther’s personal story of her formative years living in the shelter and the fact that there was no public recognition of the shelter or the amazing role that the Oswego community played in harboring these refugees that fueled Celia Meren, Alice Pearlman and Belle Shriro’s passion to heighten the awareness of this unique time in history. Under the auspices of the Syracuse Chapter of Pioneer Women, they formed a committee for the purpose of establishing a memorial monument on the grounds of Fort Ontario. After a visit by Ruth Gruber sponsored by the Syracuse Jewish Federation in the spring of 1981, and with her blessing and backing, the committee, composed of Malka Badaines, Ruth Hurwitz, Aviva Kamp, Helen Maddy, Lil Nissenbaum, Ruth Shapiro, Freida Tessler,

Safe Haven Refugee Center BY MICHAEL BALANOFF These are the comments that Michael Balanoff, president/CEO of the Jewish Federation of Central New York, delivered at the 75th anniversary celebration on August 5 of the day when 982 European refugees came to Oswego, “where the Holocaust came to America,” and those refugees were offered a “Safe Haven.” Remembering and commemorating are integral parts of our Jewish tradition. Our Jewish faith teaches us never to forget the catastrophes that have struck all peoples, to remember them, to learn from them, and to work unceasingly to make the world better, so that such horrific things never happen again. Commemorating the 75th anniversary of the arrival of 982 mostly Jewish refugees to Fort Ontario reminds us of the vital role that America has played in the history of the Jewish people. Safe Haven at Fort Ontario is a unique chapter in American Jewish history. Its importance stems not only from the fact that almost 1,000 people were rescued from a terrible fate, but from the fact that the good people of Oswego, Rochester and Syracuse stepped up to help the refugees who arrived in this place, bringing food, clothing, household goods and friendship. This shows us that when people of good will step up to help those

in need, they make real the promise of America for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The Jewish Federation of Central New York is proud to be part of this commemoration. One of the major goals of the Federation is to build and sustain a thriving Jewish community locally, nationally and internationally through education, culture and social service. Alexander E. Holstein, the president of the Jewish Federation at the time of Safe Haven, was one of the leading figures in coordinating the many agencies and people involved in providing the “essentials of living” for the refugees, who arrived with nothing. Many groups from Syracuse came to help with setting up housing and other needs. Federation was proud to be a part of the Safe Haven effort seven decades ago and is proud to be a part of the commemoration today. On behalf of the Jewish community of Central New York, I wish to express sincere appreciation for all that was done for our fellow Jews at a tragic time in our history and for what continues to be done by the people of Oswego to memorialize this unique experience This serves as a reminder that we are all members of an America that stands for freedom and opportunity, not only in the past, but in the present and future as well.

Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center senior dining menu SEPTEMBER 2-6 Monday – closed for Labor Day Tuesday – Beef chili with dinner roll Wednesday – tomato basil soup and grilled cheese sandwich Thursday – meatloaf Friday – orange glazed chicken SEPTEMBER 9-13 Monday – cheese quiche Tuesday – herb-roasted chicken Wednesday – split pea soup, veggie burger with cheese Thursday – imitation crab cakes Friday – birthday celebration – salmon with dill

Shana Tovah from

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The Bobbi Epstein Lewis JCC Senior Adult Dining Program at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center offers Va’ad Ha’ir-supervised kosher lunches served Monday through Friday at noon. Lunch reservations are required by noon on 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 further information or to make a reservation, contact Cindy Stein at 315-4452360, ext. 104, or cstein@jccsyr.org.

Eleanor Zaleon, Rita Kanter and yours truly, chaired by Celia, Alice and Belle, got to work. As a result of their efforts, and the outpouring of generosity and support from so many, Jews and non-Jews alike, on October 25, 1981, with over 40 refugees and their families and over 500 people from the Oswego, Syracuse and Rochester areas in attendance, under the color guard of the Jewish War Veterans of Onondaga County Post 131 holding the flags of the United States and Israel, Ruth Gruber, as keynote speaker, unveiled the granite monument marking the spot that “from 1944 to 1946 served as a haven for 982 survivors of the Holocaust.” And that was only the beginning. Two years later, on October 2, 1983, they organized a tree planting ceremony with Ruth Gruber, refugees and their families, and community members again in attendance. In 1989, Belle Shriro and Celia Meren were elected to serve on the board of directors of the newly-created Safe Haven, Incorporated. These women went on to organize a 50th Safe Haven reunion in 1994; and to coincide with the 55th reunion, arranged for Ruth Gruber to hold a book signing of her book “Haven.” In 2002, the Safe Haven Museum and Education Center was built under the leadership of Carol Rosenberg, then president of Safe Haven, Incorporated and a Na’amat member. On October 6, 2002, as part of the building’s dedication ceremony, Belle Shriro and Celia Meren were honored with lifetime memberships by the Safe Haven Board of Directors. Their tremendous dedication to remembering the past is an illuminating example to us all. By shining the light on the events which took place here, we highlight the compassion and core values of freedom and the dignity of humankind which make our country great. Just as Emma Lazarus’ words: “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” served as a beacon of hope for prior generations, so, too, do they resonate today. May our country always be a beacon of hope and may the torch held high in Lady Liberty’s hand, this historic site and the welcoming hearts of the Oswego community, be constant reminders of our moral imperative to give refuge to those in crisis and embrace those yearning to breathe free. Thank you.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ AUGUST 29, 2019/28 AV 5779

CONGREGATIONAL NOTES Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas APPLE PICKING AT ABBOTT FARMS Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas will kick off its fall festivities on Sunday, September 8, at 1 pm, with intergenerational apple picking at Abbott Farms. The event is open to all ages. In addition to apple picking, fall crafts and stories are planned for the children. To make a reservation, or for more information, contact Program Director Melissa Harkavy at director@cbscs.org. THE CHOSEN MEEPLE (THE CBSCS GAMING GROUP) The Chosen Meeple will assemble on Saturday, September 14, at 7 pm, at CBS-CS. Organizers feel that in an age

of digital interactions, getting together to play games is a great way to spend time with other people. Games are interactive and, hopefully, engaging. The Chosen Meeple meets monthly at CBS-CS. The tables are open to any game participants would like to bring and organizers will find everyone a seat at a table. Games may be virtually any kind of game (classic, modern, cards, dice, tile or role playing). These gatherings are free and reservations are not required. The Chosen Meeple requests all participants bring either a game or a snack that is sealed and kosher. CBS-CS will provide the drinks. For more information, contact Rabbi Andrew Pepperstone at rabbi@cbscs.org.

Temple Concord CINEMAGOGUE PRESENTS “THE INFIDEL” Temple Concord’s Cinemagogue series will present the film “The Infidel” on Saturday, August 24, at 7:30 pm. In a widely-praised comic performance, Mohmoud Nasir, played by Omid Djalili, discovers that he is adopted – and Jewish – causing him to have an identity crisis. With the help of his neighbor, Mahmoud begins to learn about the Jews and their religion and locates his birth father. The film was favorably reviewed by The New York Times and Britain’s newspaper, The Guardian. Cinemagogue events are free and open to the public, and candy and snacks are available. Donations are welcome. For more information, contact the TC office at 315-475-9952, or office@ templeconcord.org. SUMMER OUTDOOR SHABBAT SERVICE On Friday, August 30, at 6 pm, Temple

Concord will hold the last of this year’s Outdoor Summer Series Shabbat in the Park series. TC Rabbi Daniel Fellman said, “As neighbors being brought even closer together by the Connective Corridor and our shared love of learning, we welcome our friends and neighbors in the SU community to come visit with us.” The last of the Outdoor Summer Series will bring congregants back to Temple Concord, where participants will welcome back Syracuse University students, faculty, staff members and administration to join the congregation for services, followed by a pizza dinner. There will be a nominal fee for the dinner. Dinner reservations may be made by contacting the TC office at 315-475-9952 or office@templeconcord.org or by going online www.templeconcord.org.

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“FIDDLER: A MIRACLE OF MIRACLES” SCREENING AT TAY BY SONALI MCINTYRE On Sunday, September 8, at 7 pm, Temple Adath Yeshurun and the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse will present a free screening of the documentary film “Fiddler: a Miracle of Miracles.” The film is the original story behind “Fiddler on The Roof,” considered one of the most beloved Broadway musicals. It takes the audience through the creative roots in early 1960s New York City where “tradition” was dwindling with the evolving rise of gender roles, sexuality, race relations and religion. The film will be shown at Temple Adath Yeshurun, 450 Kimber Rd., Syracuse. According to the official website for the film, “‘Fiddler’ is the first in-depth documentary film that chronicles the life and themes of this iconic offering of American culture.” The original 1964 musical was based on short stories about Tevye the Dairyman written by Sholem

Ian Murphy participated in Transit Tuesday at Camp Rothschild at Temple Adath Yeshurun. It’s a weekly activity where children bring their wheels (bikes, scooters, rollerblades, etc.). Aleichem, a Russian and Yiddish playwright and author at the turn of the century. It held the record for longest-running musical for almost 10 years, won nine Tony Awards and has had five Broadway See “TAY” on page 6

TAY Hazak held its annual officer and board installation at the Bistro on August 4. Rabbi Yehoshua and Ashira Zehavi attended the event. Seated, l-r: JoAnn Grower, president; Joanne Greenhouse, vice president of programming; Marcia Mizruchi, secretary; and Cindy Goldstein, membership chairperson. Standing, l-r: Lynn Cohen, Asher Greenhouse, Arlee Baskin, Ceil Cohen, Rabbi Yehoshua and Ashira Zehavi, Ruth Borsky and Sandra Schwartz.

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AUGUST 29, 2019/28 AV 5779 ■

JEWISH OBSERVER

Syracuse high school students attend Elder Care Residency program at Menorah Park BY JUDY SCHMID Thirty-three Syracuse City School District students attended an Elder Care Residency Program in July at Menorah Park of Central New York. The program, funded by a grant, was created by Menorah Park of CNY staff and Onondaga Community College staff. It was coordinated by Sharon Birnkrant, a retired Syracuse school principal, and Menorah Park Foundation Director Susie Drazen, a former educator. The Elder Care Residency Program was designed as a career and job opportunity program for high school students who are part of the New York State Liber-

Syracuse high school students Fadumo Farrah and Fatuma Mohamed spoke with resident Yolanda Halpin.

Campaign

ty Partnerships Program at OCC. The two-week program immersed the students in a comprehensive learning and career development experience. Drazen said, “We developed the program to address unmet needs at our continuum-of-care campus that serves the elderly and for finding a path out of poverty for young people. We know there’s often a lack of awareness in some students and their families about employment opportunities in healthcare, one Some of the Syracuse City School District students with Sharon Birnkrant (third of the fastest growing job from left, back row) and Heather Niver, program coordinator for the Liberty sectors.” Partnership Program at OCC (second row, third from right). The students, from the Public Service Academy at Fowler, Nottingham, Corcor“Our administrative and professional staff at Menoan and Henninger high schools, are part of a pilot program rah Park were eager to showcase their individual areas this year. During their two weeks, they experienced and work with the students,” said Drazen. “We hope to nursing, nutrition, occupational and physical therapy, continue this yearly.” social services, activities, dining services and facilities The grant for this new initiative was funded by the See “Care” on page 6 services work through shadowing and assisting. Continued from page 1

commitments to tzedek (pursuing justice) and tikkun olam (repairing the world). Working in cooperation with our local Jewish organizations and other community partners, the CRC responds to emerging policy concerns and current events. On a lighter note, the annual Battle of the Bands draws young musicians from all backgrounds for a chance to perform in the spotlight at the JCC and win a cash prize. Federation helps link our local community to Israel. Federation is dedicated to ensuring that all of Israel’s citizens have equal access to educational and economic opportunity, and joins in a national effort to deepen connections between Israel and the global Jewish community. But Federation also actively tries to connect Israel to us right here, be it through the festive Yom Ha’atzmaut program, the lively Israel Scouts shows or support for the Birthright program that sends our young

people to Israel for direct exposure to the history, people and politics there, enabling them to return home feeling a strong bond with the Jewish state. Security is of utmost concern to the Federation at a time when antisemitism and white supremacy are dramatically on the rise. Susan Case DeMari, our security liaison, is the CNY Jewish community’s dedicated point-of-contact for governmental and collegiate law enforcement agencies to help prevent and respond to threats made by individuals or groups targeting the Jewish community. Her work has been recognized by theAnti-Defamation League as a model program of collaboration and communication between law enforcement and ethnic groups. In addition, Federation and the Pomeranz, Shankman and Martin Charitable Foundation have each committed to contribute $100,000 during the next two years to help our local Jewish institutions

pay for security upgrades to their buildings. Federations began decades ago to help Jews in need. That mission has not changed, although the needs – and the ways in which Federation can address them – have. Today, the Federation supported so generously by your dollars helps families with the variety of programming they want for their children, teens, young adults, adults and seniors. It sustains our Jewish community, both locally and globally. The contributions our community made to this year’s highly effective Campaign serve to ensure that our community will have a positive, meaningful and vital Jewish future. We should all take great pride in our Federation’s goals and accomplishments. We thank you for being part of that future and standing up to be counted. Michael Balanoff is president/CEO of the Jewish Federation of Central New York.

Prep-your-place pointers (NAPSI) – Many people may be surprised to learn that fall is actually the most affordable season for home prep and repair projects. There’s less demand, so homeowners might enjoy breaks on equipment and services. An easy place to begin is at the window. Cracked and warped windows can often cause heat to escape. “Windows that produce a draft or feel cold on the inside should be replaced,” explains Richard Kasunic, a home repair expert with Window Nation, a window replacement company. Modern vinyl windows fit tightly to shield homes from wind, water infiltration and inclement weather overall. With that said, many homeowners have older windows and are often “heating the outside,” adds Kasunic. “On average, homeowners spend 40 percent of their utility expense dollars on heating and cooling,” he says. “But if new windows aren’t in this year’s home budget, you might want to pick up insulated curtains, window and door gap seals, and add draft snakes on windowsills.”

He also suggests replacing the weather stripping around doors if you see any light around the edges. For less than $10, you can likely reduce electrical bills throughout the year. Additionally, exterior outlets, plumbing and utility access, chimneys and walkways should be sealed for unwanted holes, says Kasunic. And homeowners should have their furnaces and roofs professionally cleaned and inspected. Finally, cover the water heater and change the furnace filter so your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard.

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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ AUGUST 29, 2019/28 AV 5779

D’VAR TORAH

You’re in good hands... BY JIM BRULÉ This week’s portion – Re’eh – gives us the opportunity to look within and beyond a sweet midrash. It opens, as so many do, with an apparent triviality. In Deuteronomy 11:22, we read, “If you will keep this commandment...,” then all good things will flow. Now it’s obvious that the noun is singular; in other words, keep this one commandment. Yet the Torah abounds with commandments! Which one is meant? Some say that “the” commandment

Care

Alliance for Economic Inclusion Anti-Poverty Initiative in Central New York. The AEI is funded through the winning CNY Rising Upstate Revitalization Ini-

is all of Torah, and while that surely solves the problem, it is without much satisfaction. So the sages dig and delve, suggesting it means to recite the Shema; others say it is to keep the Sabbath. The one that opens us deeply, it seems to me, is an illustration that Rabbi Simeon bar Halafta uses to explain a solution from Bar Kappara. Rabbi Simeon tells us: “There were once two men, one of whom lived in Galilee and had a vineyard in Judah; the other lived in Judah and had a vineyard in Galilee. Every day they would pass

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tiative Plan submitted to New York state by the CNY Regional Economic Development Council, addressing poverty in the five-county region.

each other on the road, going to work and returning home. Finally, one day one said to the other, ‘Instead of us traveling, why don’t you guard my vineyard in your neighborhood, while I will guard yours in mine?’” (Midrash Rabbah Devarim IV:4) How simple and straightforward this seems. We can help each other by trusting the other to guard what we hold valuable. In fact, the things to be guarded are essentially the same, and so there is no unfair division of labor. A perfectly sensible suggestion – but what does it have to do with the question at hand? For that, we have to return to Bar Kappara. He notes that there are two things in Torah that are compared to a lamp: the soul of a person (Proverbs 20:27) and the commandment (Proverbs 6:23), namely, “The commandment is a lamp, and the teaching (Torah) is light.” What a happy parallel! We are given the commandment – not just a commandment; but the commandment, and we now know it points directly to the soul! Now, if we stopped here, it would leave us at simply “the commandment” being all of Torah. Bar Kappara takes it a delicious step further, although we would be remiss if we stopped where his narrative leaves off. Relating it to Rabbi Simeon’s story, he proposes that, in the story, God is one of

TAY Second-floor nurse manager Sue Payne spoke to the students.

the two individuals, and we are the other. How are we to understand this? We are each being asked to guard the other’s light; we will guard the Torah, and God will guard our souls. In Bar Kappara’s outermost understanding, we are in an active relationship with God, and our effort to guard what is treasured by the other is mutual. Of course, this could be read negatively – God will only guard our souls if we guard the Torah – but this would be a mistake. There is no quid pro quo here. God treasures our souls and will guard them, since God is merciful and loving. Instead, let’s go just a little deeper into the text. What makes this even sweeter for me is the image of being held in God’s hands, guarded and uplifted, cradled and caressed by the One who cares for us. What strength we can draw from the notion that this is a mutual relationship, not merely “If you do this for Me, I will do that for you!” One in which we are treasured and protected by the Eternal One. May our actions be guided by Torah, and therefore filled with the light of God’s love for us, allowing us to lift up those around us. Jim Brulé is a maggid, an ordained Jewish spiritual storyteller and guide, and a member of Temple Concord. He also is an end of life doula, assisting families through the transitions surrounding the end of life.

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revivals. It is still the most performed show in middle schools, high schools and around the world. The film focuses on three time periods: 1905, 1964 and today. It explores several themes and ideas that are prevalent in each time frame: changing traditions (loss of foundations and identity); antisemitism, racism and xenophobia; women’s rights; the struggle for survival (refugees and immigrants); and love, family and friendship. Rather than use a narrator, the story is told primarily through a diverse set of interviews. Archival footage and film clips from various productions around the world are also included. Among those interviewed is Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of two “extremely successful” Broadway musicals, “In the Heights” and “Hamilton.” Miranda said, “In moments of great upheaval, ‘Fiddler’ is always going to seem relevant because the world is changing faster than we can understand... and that’s what the show’s about and it’s intensely accessible because we are going through times of great change and great upheaval.”

Another interview, with Charles Isherwood, the former theater critic for The New York Times, said, “Fiddler is really not just about violence that is visited on a single person, but violence that is visited on an entire culture. Really, it’s about what we now call ethnic cleansing, in the end, and these forces are still very much alive in the world. Bigotry, oppression, sometimes disguised as mere conservatism, it’s eerily, and perhaps sadly, relevant today.” “Fiddler: a Miracle of Miracles” had its world premiere at the 2019 Toronto Jewish Film Festival, where it won the Audience Choice Award. Its U.S. premiere was at the 2019 Washington Jewish Film Festival and was an opening night film at the 2019 San Francisco Jewish Film Festival. Other major Jewish film festivals featuring “Fiddler” include San Diego, Boston, Houston, Denver and Atlanta. Doors will open at 6:30 pm. Attendees are asked to enter through the main entrance of the synagogue, under the canopy. For more information, contact the TAY office at 315-445-0002 or info@adath.org.

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Violinist Susan Jacobs to be honored by Symphoria In conjunction with Symphoria’s Healing BY VICKI FELDMAN Harmonies Program, she performs frequently Symphoria violinist Susan Jacobs first perfor cancer patients at University Hospital’s Canformed “Symphony No. 4” by Brahms when cer Center, as well as Brittonfield’s Hematoloshe was a student musician and will perform gy-Oncology Associates of Central New York. her favorite symphony to celebrate the start Her involvement with the Syracuse Jewish of her 50th anniversary orchestra season on community is well noted. She has lectured for Wednesday, September 21, at the Crouse Hinds the Syracuse Inter-Religious Council, now Concert Theater at the Civic Center. Tickets for known as InterFaith Works, co-chaired the the All Brahms concert, which also includes communitywide Yom Hashoah Committee, the composer’s “Academic Overture” and served as ritual vice president at Congregation “Piano Concert No. 1,” are available online Susan Jacobs Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas in DeWitt, offered at experiencesymphoria.org, or by calling the adult education programs at her synagogue, and taught box office at 315-299-5598. Jacobs is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, liturgy to well over 180 area high school students and where she received her bachelor’s and double master’s adults, preparing them for their bar or bat mitzvot. In degrees in performance and education, continuing her the past few years, Jacobs has dedicated her teaching studies with such teachers as Dorothy Delay ,at Juilliard, skills to working with, and preparing, many high school and Franco Gulli, in Siena, Italy. She performed as a students who learn differently and are challenged by the member of the American Symphony Orchestra under rigors and requirements upon becoming a bar mitzvah. Most recently, she enjoyed creating, producing and Leopold Stokowski and pursued chamber music studies presenting a series of Jewish-themed string quartet conwith the Hungarian and Guarneri Quartets. She joined certs that were considered well received in the Syracuse the former Syracuse Symphony in 1969 as a member of the first violin section, where she remains today, and was community. As a member of the Seneca String Quartet, she first violinist in the Syracuse Symphony String Quartet. is “thrilled to be able to collaborate” with her colleagues Jacobs is also well known in Central New York as a on these projects that give voice to her heritage. In her spare time, she can be found “unplugging in the performer, educator and chamber musician. Her off-stage pursuits include the development of a violin class at the great outdoors,” often seeking out photo ops at Green Syracuse Hebrew Day School and a “vibrant” string pro- Lakes State Park or in the Adirondacks. Summers are gram at the Manlius Pebble Hill School. As a New York spent caring for her perennial meditation garden, an state-certified music teacher, she participated in a govern- inner-city haven for wildlife, family and friends. The ment grant project that integrated music and education in proud grandmother of three children, she hits the road the Syracuse school system. In addition, after completing and drives downstate whenever possible, “getting re-encoursework at Syracuse University and Le Moyne College, ergized and enjoying a well-deserved grand-kid fix.” she earned dual certification from Le Moyne College as an English and second language teacher.

NEWS IN BRIEF

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HIGH HOLIDAY PREPARATION WITH RABBI DANIEL FELLMAN TC Rabbi Fellman will lead discussions about the High Holidays on Tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17 and 24, at 12:30 pm. He said, “These informal sessions will help us clarify our values and sharpen our focus on the most important parts of our lives. Bring a lunch and come prepared for some wide-ranging discussions as we all learn from each other.” For more information, call the at office 315-475-9952 or e-mail the rabbi at rabbifellman@templeconcord.org.

Winner

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When asked what the goals for the company are for the year as part of the Genius NY program, they said, “We would like to establish a permanent presence here with a sales and marketing team, and possibly drone pilots. We are currently interviewing and hope to establish an office here, although the engineering staff would be in Israel. We are hoping to acquire clients in every part of the U.S. and grow the business.” When asked if they had any contact with the local Jewish community, they responded, “Sorry to say, very little. We are not here a lot and, when we are, we are working most of the time. This is not to say that we are not open to making the connections. We hope to make personal and business relationships in the Jewish community.” The two young men were asked for their impressions of Syracuse and what they miss most about Israel. Muller answered, “Of course, we miss family the most, and miss seeing the (Mediterranean) Sea. Syracuse gives us the comfort of a small community that reminds me of the time I lived on a kibbutz, and sort of hugs you. We have been to New York City many times, but there is a peaceful and calm feeling here with much less stress. Growing up, it was important to us to have an experience abroad and we feel so lucky to be here. Without the Genius NY program, we would not be in Syracuse.”

From JNS.org

Jordan, Iraq sign nuclear energy agreement

Jordan and Iraq signed a nuclear-energy cooperation agreement on Aug. 24, according to reports in Jordanian media. The protocol was signed by Jordan Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Khaled Toukan and Iraqi Higher Education and Scientific Research Minister Qusay al-Suhail. Suhail stressed the importance of improving cooperation in all fields, including providing Iraq with medical and industrial radioactive isotopes, the Petra Jordan News Agency reported. Toukan said the Jordan Research and Training Reactor at the Jordan University of Science and Technology, which the delegation visited, was key for training nuclear engineers. Other states in the Middle East with nuclear energy programs include Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates.

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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.

Friday, August 30 TC Welcome back SU outdoor service and dinner at 6 pm Monday, September 2 CBS-CS Back-to-Shul barbecue at 4 pm Tuesday, September 3 Safe Haven open house at the Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario State Historic Site God 10 am-9 pm. Various activities. Free admission. Temple Concord High Holiday preparation with Rabbi Daniel Fellman at 12:30 pm Rabbi Jacob Epstein School of Jewish Studies at Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas 6:30-8:30 pm Thursday, September 5 Federation board meeting at 6 pm Temple Adath Yeshurun adult education with Rabbi Yehoshua Zehavi at 7 pm Friday, September 6 TC gala weekend – speaker Rabbi Rick Jacobs at 6 pm, with special oneg to follow Saturday, September 7 TC family gala at 6 pm Sunday, September 8 TC Religious School and volunteer day Temple Adath Yeshurun and Jewish Community Center present the film “Fiddler: a Miracle of Miracles” at TAY at 7 pm Tuesday, September 10 JCC and Jewish Federation of CNY present annual security meeting at the JCC 8 am-noon TC High Holiday preparation with Rabbi Daniel Fellman at 12:30 pm Rabbi Jacob Epstein School of Jewish Studies at Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas 6:30-8:30 pm Federation board meeting at 5 pm Wednesday, September 11 Community Hebrew School at TC 4-6 pm Deadline for September 26 Jewish Observer Thursday, September 12 TAY adult education with Rabbi Yehoshua Zehavi at 7 pm Saturday, September 14 TC Cinemagogue presents film “Joseph Pulitzer, Voice of the People” at 7:30 pm Sunday, September 15 TC Sisterhood welcome back brunch at 9:30 am TC Adult B’nai Mitzvah/Introduction to Judaism at 11 am Jewish Music and Cultural Festival at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center noon-5:30 pm

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JEWISH OBSERVER

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JEWISH OBSERVER â&#x2013; AUGUST 29, 2019/28 AV 5779