Southern Jewish Life, New Orleans, February 2022

Southern Jewish Life NEW ORLEANS EDITION

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February 2022 Volume 32 Issue 2

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

shalom y’all It seems that after a year or two of Jewish nerves being on end, culminating in the Colleyville, Tex., synagogue abduction, we have now entered the stupid season.

So many things have gone on lately that may not rise to the level of antisemitism, but are just simply stupid. In some circles, one might call them microaggressions.

The Amnesty International report on Israel is not just unbelievably stupid, it is blatantly antisemitic. Given that, it would be stupid for anyone who cares for Israel and the Jewish community to donate to Amnesty.

When talking stupid, one can count on something from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia, who gave the term “Soup Nazi” a new significance by referring to the German Gazpacho instead of Gestapo. The reactions were served quite cold, and to her credit, she poked fun at herself too.

Whoopi Goldberg did herself no favors by insisting that the Holocaust wasn’t about race. That would come as a shock to people like, say, Hitler, who insisted the Aryans were the master race and the Jews were polluting it, a theme repeated by white supremacists in the U.S. during the civil rights era. True, you can’t pigeonhole Jews into a box of “race,” but the Holocaust certainly wasn’t just a “white on white” dispute. But when you are conditioned to see race as solely a black-white issue…

Then there’s McMinn County in Tennessee, which probably did more for Holocaust education in one day than most places have in years, by yanking Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel “Maus” from the curriculum, because of about eight naughty words and one image of nudity (remember, the characters are all animals). Since then, it has been difficult to find a copy of “Maus” anywhere as it rocketed to the top of the bestseller list.

Now, is eighth grade the best venue for that book? One can argue that, and author Art Spiegelman, in a forum convened by the Chattanooga Federation that drew 10,000 online, admitted he originally figured on college classes for examining the book. That’s a legitimate debate, but the McMinn effort came across as the old book-banning obsession of bean-counting certain naughty words rather than focusing on the subject matter, and looking for teaching a more palatable, family friendly Holocaust. continued on page 4

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commentary

MESSAGES

Maccabi USA leader praises Birmingham Games I have had the honor of attending many Maccabi competitions around the world. From Israel to One Australia to member South America, Europe and the Maccabi games the United States board justified the book’s re-JCCwas teaching thearound Nazi saute. and Canada, I have logged many miles seeing how sports can be a vehicle to build Jewish moval by saying he met with a nearby rabbi Ignoring the context of help the lesson, he called identity, in ourwant young. who saidespecially he wouldn’t that book in his references to the Bellamy salute as “the compasynagogue.

Interestingly, he refused to ny time line” as the went mode.”

I felt honored to come to Birmingham for say the first and fellschool in love withinto not“cleanup just the city which “nearby” synagogue The headline in the Times Israel was the but the rabbi. people.The Youclosest have taken Southern hospitality to a new level with your kindofand caring to Athenstoisthe about miles away. approach JCC55 Maccabi Games.Now, there same as what Greenblatt had on his personal is a “messianic” congregation about 15 miles blog. Usually, writers don’t write their own Led anyone by the Sokol Helds, your hard-working headlines, volunteers so were Theywrote partnered away, wantand to bet… it iswonderful. unclear who the subwith your outstanding staff, led by Betzy Lynch, to make the 2017 JCC Maccabi games a huge Speaking of books, while McMinn was all head in Times of Israel, but it states thathit. inIover wantthe to take this opportunity as executive director of Maccabi USA to say thank you on behalf news, a controversial pastor held a stead of crediting the Jewish student (who he of everyone involved. book burning in Mount Juliet, Tenn., focusing mistakenly said was the only Jewish student at onI“demonic” books like Potter”Maccabiah se- the school, but it is actually where the vastofmahad just returned fromthe the“Harry 20th World games in Israel with a U.S. delegation ries and “Twilight. ” Now, not all bookathletes burnings of Alabama school students over 1100, who joined 10,000 Jewish fromjority 80 countries.

BackJewish in Julyhigh the eyes of the entire lead toworld the Holocaust, but theand timing of this attend) with courage, “his school Jewish were on Jerusalem the Maccabiah.

This past month with 1000 athletes punished and was impeccably tone-deaf. him you and became the localthe Jewish didn’t decoaches from around the world being in Birmingham, focal community point.

Then there are those who do express love for fend him (emphasis ours). ” Everyone from the Jewish community and the community at large, including a wonderful Israel and people, but These sometimes piece, he saidasthat when the incident police force,the areJewish to be commended. games willIn gothe down in history being a seminal can’t quite find the best way to express that. took place, “ADL or any other organization that moment for the Jewish community as we build to the future by providing such wonderful Jewish During a Congressional hearing on security, might be able to help address the issue never memories.

Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana did that, lump- received a call.”

Jed ing Margolis together Jews, Children of Israel and Israel, So, the Birmingham Jewish Federation and Executive Director, Maccabi USA do, to make the Jewish Community Relations Council, as one who reads his Bible might it sound like he was referring to American Jews which have been working with the school sysas citizens of Israel — a major no-no. tem on this, are chopped supremacists would like toliver? see pushed back On HeCharlottesville also asked the rabbis on the panel about into The local community it?We With the a corner and made toignored feel lesser. stand their attitudes toward law enforcement, lead- with Federation reporting over 350 calls andHeyer, inquiand pray for the family of Heather Editor’s Note: This reaction to the events in ing many to scratch their heads. ries in thethere two standing days following? who was up to the face of this Charlottesville, written by Jeremy Newman, While the query about attitudes toward hate.

But the ADL wasn’t contacted. Given the Master of thehave Alpha Epsilon police may been out Pi of Theta place,Colony it isn’t far- events of last summer, how exactly would that Wehelped? recognize the essence of the American at Auburn University, was shared AEPi fetched. Nationally, the Jewishby community have narrative as athe two-century struggle rid National, which called it “very eloquent” and skews left, and over the last two years, a major The day Mountainold Brook storytobroke, ourselves of such corners, and allow those in praised “our brothers at AEPi Theta Colony at position that is popular on the left is defund- several Alabama papers had an op-ed casting them the seat at the table that they so deserve.

Auburn University and… the leadership they ing police and describing police departments doubt on the ADL’s No Place for Hate curricuis the struggle fulfill promise of schools the display on their campus.There ” as hotbeds of racism. are even some in It lum, which has to been in the all Huntsville Declaration of Independence, that “all men are the Jewish community who question having for years with no problems. The writer cited created equal… endowed by their Creator with security synagogues it might the ADL’s published definition of racism — Whiteat supremacy hasbecause been a cancer onsend certain unalienable ” We know our workof a non-welcoming signal to Jews of color. marginalization orrights. oppression of people our country since its beginning, threatening is far from finished, but we know we will not In tour takes Mountain color to benefit the privilege of whites. its Our hopes, its now values, andus its to better angels. Brook, move backwards. already on that edge from theinschool system’s de- short, only whites can be racist.

The events took place Charlottesville cision last summer to end its diversity training The op-eds were immediately followed When men and women, fully armed, take up represented the worst of this nation. Those with the Anti-Defamation League because it by a piece by Greenblatt, stating the ADL reto the streets in droves with swastikas and who marched onto the streets with tiki torches is perceived to have become a more political, cently revised the definition to remove namother symbols of hate, it is a reminder of how and swastikas did so to provoke violence and left-wing recently. ing any the particular upon re-reading relevant issues ofgroup, racismasand anti-Semitism fear.

Thoseorganization who marched onto the streets did An ill-designed history lesson led to interit, the definition “didn’t even speak to mythat own are today.

It is a wake-up call to the work so to profess an ideology that harkens back to national publicity, which could have been family’s experience with the racism they expeneeds to be done to ensure a better, more a bleaker, more wretched time in our history. nipped in themen bud and at the outset, thecreeds, school welcoming rienced as Jews fromBut theit Middle ” country. should East. not come A time when women ofhad many not gone the student Thereaisreflection a growing thatcome. the ADL onperception how far we’ve races, andafter religions were farwho frompublicized equal and the far without lesson.

The firestorm was three weeks after the is no longer middle of the road but leans left, America was born a slave nation. A century from safe in our own borders. A time where incident, so there was plenty of time for a simthat it is quick to go after those on the right into our history we engaged in a war in part Americans lived under a constant cloud of ple “oops, that was wrong. ” (Story on page butensure dragsweitswould feet not regarding from continuehate as one.

We the racism, anti-Semitism and pervasive hate.

The19 to of the Deep South edition, New Orleans served readers found left orourselves from Muslim extremists confronted by the(they issuedefendof civil events that took place in Charlottesville please go to sjlmag.com). ed Amnesty International, albeit tobefore rights, and embarked on a mission ensurelast as a reminder of how painfully relevant these Most people close to the situation figured it month’s report, and named a director oftheir Jewthe fair treatment of all peoples no matter issues are today. was just a dumb way for the teacher to present skin ish outreach who is openly hostile to Israel). color. Although we’ve made great strides, Auburn’s Epsilon Pi stands rather with the a lesson onAlpha how symbols change, than it isThe ADL does work, butwith this today. percepa mission we’regreat still grappling Jewish community of Charlottesville, there being any antisemitic intent. and tion is making it more difficult to be effective, America was also born an immigrant with the Jewish people around the country and the racism definition and other mis-steps Rushing In country.

As early as the pilgrims, many and around the world. We also stand with the aren’t helping.

As part who of the CEO groups and families found in the country the minorities aredebate, targetedADL by the hateJonathan that Greenblatt weighed in. opportunity to plant stakes, chase their future, was on display in Charlottesville.

We stand In an piece, “Nazi Salute?

Blame the and be themselves. Few were met with open with theopinion minorities of whom these white Lawrence Brook, Publisher/Editor Jewish Student” Greenblatt says the teacher 4

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

January 2021 February 2022

Southern Jewish Life PUBLISHER/EDITOR Lawrence M. Brook editor@sjlmag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER/ADVERTISING Lee J. Green lee@sjlmag.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Richard Friedman richard@sjlmag.com V.P. SALES/MARKETING, NEW ORLEANS Jeff Pizzo jeff@sjlmag.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ginger Brook ginger@sjlmag.com SOCIAL/WEB Emily Baldwein connect@sjlmag.com PHOTOGRAPHER-AT-LARGE Rabbi Barry C. Altmark deepsouthrabbi.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rivka Epstein, Louis Crawford, Tally Werthan, Stuart Derroff, Belle Freitag, Ted Gelber, E. Walter Katz, Doug Brook brookwrite.com BIRMINGHAM OFFICE P.O. Box 130052, Birmingham, AL 35213 2179 Highland Ave., Birmingham, AL 35205 205/870.7889 NEW ORLEANS OFFICE 3747 West Esplanade, 3rd Floor Metairie, LA 70002 504/249-6875 TOLL-FREE 888/613.YALL(9255) ADVERTISING Advertising inquiries to 205/870.7889 for Lee Green, lee@sjlmag.com Jeff Pizzo, jeff@sjlmag.com Media kit, rates available upon request SUBSCRIPTIONS It has always been our goal to provide a large-community quality publication to all communities of the South.

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agenda interesting bits & can’t miss events

Staffers at Tulane Hillel enjoy Jewish Heritage Night at Tulane’s basketball game against Tulsa.

Chelsea Hylton named new director of Interfaith Families center Chelsea Hylton has been named the new director of the Sherry and Alan Leventhal Family Foundation Center for Interfaith Families.

Launched in 2020, the Center for Interfaith Families is an in-house initiative of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, designed to foster a broader and more inclusive Jewish community through programs and community partnerships for families and households who identify as interfaith regardless of age, observances, and where they fall on the Jewish spectrum.

In collaboration with area synagogues, Jewish organizations, and non-Jewish partners, the Leventhal Center creates opportunities to explore and connect to Jewish community, values, traditions, experiences, texts and spirituality to support an individualized Jewish or Jewish adjacent journey.

In December, the Leventhal Center announced a partnership with 18Doors, a leading national organization which creates interfaith space and programming outreach.

“The Leventhal Center for Interfaith Families presents an incredible opportunity to build, cultivate and nourish a foundation of support for generations of New Orleans interfaith families,” said Hylton. “As a partner in an interfaith marriage and as a new parent raising our child in the Jewish community, I am eager to work toward fulfilling a need that I have sought to fill for my own family and can support many others,” she said.

“Chelsea Hylton is such an exciting hire as the director of the Sherry and Alan Leventhal Center for Interfaith Families — and we couldn’t be happier,” said Leventhal Center Co-Chairs Teri Hunter and Alex Gershanik. “She is an extraordinary human being and her work in starting and growing the non-profit Peaceful Warriors highlights her skill as an

inspiring, visionary leader. Added to her professional skill set is her personal warmth, good humor, intellect, creative and collaborative spirit, and the fact that she is a part of an interfaith family herself.”

“New Orleans is deeply pluralistic — and we see that in the number of interfaith relationships and families included in our own Jewish community,” said Arnie D. Fielkow, Federation CEO. It’s important that we create a space which is ever evolving to serve the unique needs of a changing Jewish and interfaith community, and we’re thrilled to see how Chelsea guides the Leventhal Center moving forward.”

According to the Pew Research Center’s Jewish Americans in 2020 report, the rate of interfaith marriage among non-Orthodox Jews is 72 percent. Almost half of Jewish adults aged 18 to 29 are products of interfaith families, and according to Pew, are more likely to form their own interfaith households as well.

Originally from Alexandria, Va., Hylton also lived in Charleston, S.C. where she received her B.S. in physical education at the College of Charleston. With almost a decade in New Orleans, she brings an extensive background in non-profit management and education to her role with the Federation.

Upon moving to New Orleans in 2014, she served as both a K-12 encontinued on page 45 February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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agenda Tulane Hillel’s director named a Wexner Field Fellow Ron Gubitz, executive director of Hillel at Tulane University, was selected as one of 15 Jewish professionals for Class 6 of the Wexner Field Fellowship, The Wexner Foundation’s leadership development program created in partnership with the Jim Joseph Foundation.

The Wexner Field Fellowship is a threeyear intensive professional development program.

Utilizing the diverse, cohort-based learning that is the hallmark of Wexner Foundation programs, Field Fellows will be exposed to different approaches to leadership and tools for addressing pressing issues in the Jewish community, while being integrated into The Wexner Foundation’s vast network of more than 3,000 professional and volunteer leaders in North America and Israel, including the 45 outstanding professionals who are currently in the Field Fellowship Program, as well as 55 Alumni.

The Wexner Field Fellowship was created in 2013 in partnership with the Jim Joseph Foundation to focus on developing promising Jewish professionals’ leadership skills while enveloping them in a rich network of Jewish colleagues. Fellows are selected based on their past accomplishments, current motivation and engagement, and exceptional attributes they will contribute to the group.

“We are so impressed with the new cohort of dynamic Jewish professionals. Their commitment and creative visions for the Jewish future inspire me deeply. We are particularly proud to partner with the Jim Joseph Foundation to provide support for our Field Fellows at this challenging crossroad in Jewish communal life,” said Rabbi B. Elka Abrahamson, president of The Wexner Foundation. “These transformational leaders will add powerfully to the community of Wexner Fellows and Alumni shaping the Jewish future.”

The Fellows receive one-on-one professional coaching and Jewish learning, and develop a nuanced approach for the diversity of the North American Jewish community. They also will develop skills in adaptive leadership, storytelling, difficult conversations, negotiation and other

On Jan. 25, Alpha Epsilon Pi at the University of Alabama inducted its pledge class, Ben Chabner and Reid Schuback.

6 February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

agenda crucial leadership skills.

Before his current role at Tulane Hillel, he served as the leadership coach for The John F. Kennedy Center’s Turnaround Arts program. From 2011 to 2016, he served as principal of the ReNEW Cultural Arts Academy in New Orleans. While at Indiana University, he founded the Hip Hop Congress, and some of his music is available on Spotify.

Dov Wilker, regional director in Atlanta’s office of the American Jewish Committee, is in Class 5. Rabbi Ethan Linden, director of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, was in Class 2. He was rabbi at Shir Chadash in Metairie until 2016.

The first class included Rachel Berger, director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Previously, she was in charge of grantmaking for Bend the Arc during a time when the organization was placing a particular emphasis on grassroots groups on the Louisiana Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina.

Most of South a hole in bagel landscape As New Orleanians braced themselves for the Krewe du Mishigas and Krewe du Jieux appearances in their respective Mardi Gras parades, handing out their prized painted bagels, a national study shows that New Orleans is, in fact, one of the best cities for bagel lovers.

The rest of the region, not so much.

Lawn Love’s survey was for National Bagel Day on Jan. 15, not the Krewe du Vieux and krewedelusion parades on Feb. 12, but New Orleans placed 11th out of 158 cities, and fourth in overall bagel quality.

Naturally, New York City was the runaway winner, followed distantly by San Francisco and Boston.

The study highlighted cities “that have an abunPhoto by Willie Sklar, Creative Commons dance of high-quality bagel shops and an enthusiastic bagel-loving community.” Scores were based on bagel availability, quality based on online reviews, and popularity based on online searches for bagels.

In addition to placing 32nd in access, New Orleans placed 21st in popularity, though it is unclear how many bagel searches have to do with the painted variety.

In the South, Savannah placed 17th overall. Mobile placed 41st on the strength of a No. 10 ranking in quality, despite ranking 127 in access and 130 in popularity.

The rest of Alabama didn’t fare as well. Birmingham was 135th, ranking 152 in access, 111 in quality and 123 in popularity. Huntsville was 130 and Montgomery was second from the bottom at 157, ranking lowest in the nation for popularity.

Nashville was 45th, Chattanooga was 61st, Memphis ranked 90th and Rocky Top had rocky results, with Knoxville at 105. In Georgia, Macon outpaced Atlanta, 57th and 77th respectively. Atlanta’s bagels ranked 136th in quality, though they are popular and plentiful.

Tallahassee ranked 108th and Little Rock was 115th.

Mississippi’s only listing was Jackson, at 133.

As part of a generally poor showing for Texas in general, Houston ranked 97th, and five of the bottom 10 were Texas cities.

On Our Cover: Chabad on 30A made its debut with a Meet and Greet on Feb. 6 on Dunes Allen Beach. Rabbi Shaya Tenenboim from Chabad Emerald Coast in Destin said there has been growth in the Jewish community along 30A, and for some it is a trek to go to Destin. They plan to provide Jewish programming in the Santa Rosa Beach area every month or so.

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agenda After postponing its name reveal and annual meeting on Jan. 9 due to Omicron, the Unified Jewish Congregation of Baton Rouge announced the meeting has been rescheduled for March 6. At 11:30 a.m., there will be a tree planting, followed by the business meeting at noon and a luncheon at 1 p.m., by reservation.

Touro Synagogue announced that its L’Chayim Award celebration honoring Ana and Juan Gershanik has been postponed from Jan. 30 to March 20, due to the current Covid situation. The new reservation deadline is March 6.

The Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana has moved its March 7 gala to April 24. The event will be at the Audubon Tea Room, with a patron’s party at 6:30 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m.

Temple Sinai in New Orleans announced its Garden Party Gala will be April 2 at 4 p.m. at Longue Vue. Hancock Whitney and JNOLA will have a Networking Happy Hour, March 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Café Reconcile. The event is open to those ages 21 to 59 who are interested in networking. Reserve by March 3 to kimberly.allen@hancockwhitney.com.

The Jackson-based Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life announced that its annual Education Conference will take place online, June 26 and 27. The conference is for educators, volunteers and parents at congregations throughout its 13-state region, especially those using the ISJL standardized curriculum for religious schools. Last year, about 65 congregations were using the curriculum, and those congregations also receive the services of ISJL program associates. Emily Aronoff of Dr. Emily Celebrates will be the keynote speaker at the conference.

Chabad Jewish Women’s Circle will have a Soup and Soul event on March 8 at 7:30 p.m. at Chabad Uptown, with a soup buffet and a discussion of the Book of Esther. Registration is requested, the event is free but sponsorships are available.

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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Temple Sinai in New Orleans is now accepting items for the return of the Attic Sale, which will be June 12 and 13. Items being accepted include jewelry, kitchenware, small working kitchen appliances, glassware, chinaware, home décor, small pieces of furniture, unstained linens, artwork, purses, children’s clothing and women’s clothing. Items that can not be accepted include books, toys, shoes, undergarments, swimsuits, sofas, upholstered furniture, cell phones, computers, all electronic devices and medical supplies/equipment. Donations can be dropped off on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The next Institute of Southern Jewish Life Virtual Vacation will be on Feb. 22 at 11 a.m., focusing on “From Ballyhoo to Bumble: Stories of Southern Jewish Romance,” the story of social weekends that enabled Jewish teens from communities around the region to meet, to summer camp to the modern dating apps. Past episodes are available on the ISJL Virtual Vacation website.

Moishe House in New Orleans will have a Mardi Party, Feb. 26 from 2:30 to 4 p.m., with drinks and snacks to rejuvenate for Endymion.

The Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica will have a virtual information session for this summer’s camp. It will be on March 2 at 7 p.m.

The Jackson-based Institute of Southern Jewish Life will have an online Purim program with comedian Dave Goldstein, March 10 at 7 p.m. The live Zoom is available for participating communities.

Women’s Philanthropy at the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is doing a Journey to Montgomery and New Orleans from March 20 to 23, exploring the civil rights movement and the history of the Jewish South.

community Colleyville puts focus back on security at Jewish community institutions Ever since the hostage-taking of Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker and three congregants at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas on Jan. 15, congregations large and small in the region have been reevaluating their security protocols and beefing up their systems.

Naturally, most aren’t publicly disclosing the precise steps they are taking, and many of the steps are not visible to the general public, but the attack brought an issue that comes and goes back to the forefront.

The Secure Community Network, the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America, has been working with communities nationally with a series of online events that teach best practices, including active shooter training, how to administer first aid when first responders can’t get in, and situational awareness in a hostage situation.

Cytron-Walker has credited that type of training with the positive outcome in Colleyville.

After Colleyville, SCN announced “BeAware,” a new training system that CEO Michael Masters said every synagogue and Jewish facility in the U.S. should use. The system teaches how to recognize suspicious behavior and criminal activity, guidance on how to report it, and strategies to protect themselves and others from violence.

The course can be taught online or in person and is available to everyone in the Jewish community. Last year, 17,000 took the training, a number that is expected to rise substantially this year.

“As we saw in Texas, we cannot pick the time and date of the next incident that will impact our community, but we can choose to prepare,” Masters said. “A critical component of preparing is training, and this training will provide crucial skills the Jewish community needs to stay safe.”

In partnership with SCN, the Birmingham Jewish Federation announced that a community security director will be hired in the next couple of months. Last year, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans hired Jimmy Stewart in that same role.

Danny Cohn, CEO of the Birmingham Federation, said discussions had been taking place since 2018, “trying to plot what was best for our community based on the resources we had available.”

The new position means that “our community becomes singular in any security response. This allows someone to have their eye on all of our institutions not only from a security threat perspective but also from a community training perspective, from active shooter drills to various other emergency situations,” he said.

A Community Security Committee has been established with representation from each agency and religious institution, chaired by Jon Kimerling.

In a Jan. 20 update to the New Orleans community, numerous law enforcement officials from the area joined the New Orleans Federation for an online forum. Federation CEO Arnie Fielkow said there would be additional security updates, as well as community security events online and in person.

Aaron Ahlquist, who has been chairing the New Orleans security effort with Roselle Ungar, said the New Orleans effort also dates back to 2018, before the Tree of Life shooting in Pittsburgh and the vandalism at Northshore Jewish Congregation in Mandeville. An assessment of community security at the synagogues and agencies showed a wide range of procedures, so they brought in SCN for training and to bring consistency. A community alert system was also established.

Brad Orsini, senior national security advisor for SCN, said the agency was founded in 2004 and works with 300 communities and the almost 150 Jewish Federations in the country. They determine best practices and

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community work on threat assessment and mitigation.

He pointed out that in Colleyville, one of the first things the FBI requested was the floor plans of the synagogue. Every community needs to have the floor plans for the local Jewish institutions already available to local law enforcement.

For threat mitigation, he said it is “paramount” to report “every act of hate, every suspicious behavior.” While the Jewish community strives to be warm and welcoming, security and access control also have to be priorities.

Louisiana FBI Agent In Charge Doug Williams told the forum that members of the Jewish community “are in the best position to determine when something isn’t right and report it to us.”

Chris Soyez, Supervisory Special Agent of the FBI New Orleans Joint Terrorism Task Force, spoke of the FBI model of run, hide and fight for active shooters.

Law enforcement officials from Jefferson and Orleans Parishes, Tulane University and the city of Mandeville, spoke of their working relationships with synagogues and Jewish institutions in their areas. Joe Lopinto, sheriff of Jefferson Parish, noted that the Jewish Community Campus in Metairie has been used for training their SWAT team.

Many communities in the region have received grants from the Federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program. There is currently a push in Congress to double the program’s funding.

Administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the program provides grants of up to $150,000 to synagogues, other houses of worship, communal centers, Jewish day schools and other nonprofits at risk of attack. The money may be used for building security improvements, and for the training and hiring of security guards.

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

Registration opens for Louisiana Trade and Community mission to Israel Registration is now open for the Louisiana Mission to Israel, scheduled for July 12 to 18. Coordinated by the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, the mission features an Explore Israel track open to the entire Louisiana Jewish community, as well as four industry tracks to boost trade and business connections between Louisiana and Israel.

The mission includes visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and industry specific places of interest for each of the four business tracks. The delegation is expected to include approximately 200 business, community, educational and government leaders. Participants will also enjoy an exclusive opportunity to attend the Opening Ceremonies of the Maccabiah Games.

The business tracks include medicine, biotechnology and healthcare; energy and sustainability; transportation, port and maritime; cybersecurity and innovation.

Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans CEO Arnie Fielkow said the Israel mission “presents a unique opportunity for Louisiana businesses to gain access to this major international hub of innovation and technology.”

The Explore Israel track will be more of a traditional Israel trip, with a private meeting at the official residence of Israel’s president, a wine tasting and lunch at Tishbi Winery, a Western Wall tunnel tour, and visits to the City of David and Tower of David Museum.

Mission co-sponsors include Jones Walker, LLP as the Title Sponsor, the World Trade Center New Orleans, the New Orleans Business Alliance, GNO Inc., Louisiana Economic Development, NFP, Tulane University, the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, and Ochsner Health.

Registration information is available at louisianatoisrael.com.

community Loeb’s Olympic quest falls short Dani Loeb’s quest to become the first Olympic skier from Alabama ended for now as she failed to qualify for the Beijing Games, but she is looking ahead to 2026 — and hoping that there isn’t a repeat of the events leading up to final qualifying this time.

The Pintlala, Ala., native arrived in Atlanta on Dec. 15, returning from competitions in Finland, two hours after her mother arrived in Atlanta with all of her gear. Within an hour, and before Loeb arrived, her skis, uniforms, overcoats and other equipment were stolen from her mother’s pickup truck that was parked in a deck on Peachtree Street.

The skis cost about $1600 a pair, but these are specialty skis made in Switzerland, made specifically for aerial competition, and could not be replaced easily. Also, aerial competitors personalize their skis, tuning them to their strengths, so not only is it difficult to simply grab a new set, there is a mental aspect of being familiar and comfortable with the equipment.

On Jan. 4, Atlanta police arrested Kelvin Lanier Evans, 36, and Andre Jermaine Pitts, 38. They were charged with criminal trespass and entering an automobile with intent to commit theft or felony.

On Dec. 16, police had apparently stopped a car Pitts was driving. He gave them a false name, but police noticed that he was wearing the same clothes as in the parking deck’s surveillance video, and Evans was in the car with the same ski mask. Both were already wanted on other charges.

Loeb was pleasantly surprised to hear about the arrest, noting that in terms of overall public safety, the theft of ski equipment is a bit down the list. There was no word on the recovery of any of her items, though.

She did say that the overcoats in particular are very hard to replace,

and if they were pawned and someone bought it, she would appreciate its return.

Loeb was able to purchase skis from a former teammate who tuned the skis in a similar manner, and a friend made a new helmet with an airbrushed Evil Eye on the back. While she was able to compete in the World Cup in Deer Valley on Jan. 12, she did not place high enough to qualify for the Olympic team.

On Instagram, she congratulated teammates who qualified, and said “I am so excited to get back to training and learn some cooler tricks and become better and better! Next round I’m going to earn my ticket!”

The 2026 Games will be in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

In 2020, Loeb became the first Alabamian on the U.S. National Ski Team. She grew up on a farm in the small town near Montgomery, doing gymnastics at age two. She pursued gymnastics at a national level, but while training in Texas she was recruited to try her hand at aerial skiing, which she had never heard of. Because of their “air awareness,” gymnasts are often recruited into aerial skiing, and at age 14 she was already in a national developmental program in Lake Placid, N.Y., teaching teammates about the religion known as Crimson Tide football.

Despite Covid restrictions, over the past year she has been able to compete in World Cup events in Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Finland, with several Top Ten finishes. In 2019 she placed first in the European Cup in Italy, and in 2020 was first at a Nor-Am Cup event in Quebec.

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

community

The Jewish Children’s Regional Service 11th annual Jewish Roots gala turns to the wide world of sports for this year’s event, on March 27 at 6 p.m., at the Sheraton New Orleans and on livestream.

Two years ago, the gala was one of the last major events before the Covid shutdowns. Last year’s event, a celebration of the agency’s 75th anniversary, was held virtually. The regional event generally draws over 400 attendees.

The Jewish Roots of Sports will feature a number of celebrated Jewish athletes, in person and on video, some of whom have ties to JCRS or its predecessor, the Jewish Orphans’ Home.

The lineup includes U.S. Olympian Kerri Strug, Mississippi State University Athletic Director John Cohen (story, page 16), WNBA player and former league President Donna Orender, pro basketball player and author Dan Grunfeld, and a special message from Major League Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Ken Griffey, Jr. The event will honor three of JCRS’ Most Valuable Players, Gayle Baer, Alan Krilov and Mark Sands.

Ned Goldberg, JCRS Executive Director Emeritus, will be inducted Ken Griffey, Jr. into the JCRS Hall of Fame.

Originally established in 1855 as an orphanage in New Orleans, JCRS is currently the oldest existing Jewish children’s social service organization in the U.S., as well as the only regional Jewish child welfare agency in the country.

JCRS provides needs-based scholarships for summer camp experiences, college aid, and assistance to children with special needs. Additional outreach programs include the Oscar J. Tolmas Hanukkah Gift Program and the PJ Library program for Jewish children ages 11 and under.

This year, JCRS will serve or fund over 1,800 Jewish children from over 200 communities in a seven-state region, including 54 percent of Jewish youth, ages 17 and under, in Greater New Orleans. The agency also serves the rest of Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi.

A Long Island native, Orender was named to FOX Sports.com’s 10 Most Powerful Women in Sports, Sporting News’s Annual Power 100, and Newsweek’s 100 Most Influential People in the Business of Sports.

A Long Island native, she lettered in five sports in high school, including boys’ tennis, then was an All-American for the Queens College women’s basketball team.

She played the entire three seasons of the Women’s Pro Basketball League’s existence, where she was an All-Star and holds two career records. From 2005 to 2011, she was president of the Women’s National Basketball League, after serving 17 years in variDonna Orender ous roles for the PGA Tour.

Orender is the founder of Generation W, an ever growing and enthusiastic community with the mission to educate, inspire, connect, and fuel the power of women’s leadership. Based in Jacksonville, Generation W is a nationally recognized non-profit whose action-oriented programs are designed to create awareness and propel change.

She is also the founding CEO of the consulting firm Orender Unlimit-

community ed, and the author of “WOWSsdom! The Girl’s Guide to the Positive and the Possible.”

Orender was inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and elected to the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.

She credits her Conservative Jewish heritage as giving her “a sense of place and comfort.” She said “It’s really all about your family, your belief system, and how you can take that and live that in all the work you do. And we feel strongly about grounding our twin sons in Jewish values and community, as well as giving them a deep and abiding connection and responsibility to their roots.”

Her family has been involved in the Maccabi USA movement, and she was team captain for the U.S. women’s basketball team at the 1985 World Maccabiah in Israel.

In addition to her leadership roles and speaking appearances, Donna co-hosts Maccabi USA Sports Show with Arnie Fielkow to discuss various topics with Jewish athletes and professionals across the world.

Over the last two years, Orender has become a familiar voice in the region, co-hosting the Maccabi USA Sports Show with Arnie Fielkow, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, to discuss various topics with Jewish

athletes and professionals across the world.

In November, Orender and Fielkow interviewed Cohen on the show.

The Mississippi State University athletics director and standout baseball player has a family connection to JCRS, through his father, who played baseball while living in the home.

In 1936, Cohen’s grandmother, Nettie Crystal Cohen, passed away from pneumonia, leaving her husband John to care for their three young children — Perry, Gilbert, and Harry. Finding no way to support his children properly, John placed his three sons in the Jewish Children’s Home on April 20, The Hersh family 1936, where they were reared and edwhom he had four children, including John. ucated during their formative years.

“My father would tell these warm and wonHarry Cohen excelled at sports and played derful stories of his growing up in the Home baseball for Fortier High School and the Amer- and playing baseball across New Orleans,” Coican Legion while living in the Home. Harry left hen said. “I am thrilled to be engaged with JCRS the Home in 1944 and, despite being labeled as and the amazing work they continue to do for “not college material,” attended Tulane Univer- our Jewish kids.” sity where he received a BA degree and then his The Hersh family of Pearland, Tex., has a law degree. He was a professor at the Universi- more recent tie to JCRS. When Ed Hersh’s wife, ty of Alabama School of Law for 37 years, and Shellie, was diagnosed with cancer, they wanted it was there that he met his bride Doris, with their three sons to continue their paths building

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Southern Jewish Life Little Engine that Could

Two years of Covid. So many businesses, including Jewish newspapers and magazines, have gone by the wayside as much of their advertising has dried up.

Yet, we’re still here. Southern Jewish Life keeps publishing monthly and drawing advertisers. These dollars enable us to continue covering and serving Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and NW Florida.

We’re kind of like “the little engine that could”; defying the odds and chugging along. Yet to keep the train going requires fuel.

As 2022 unfolds, we are committed to continuing to cover and connecting Jewish communities throughout the region, providing up to the minute online coverage, and mailing our monthly print version to every known Jewish household in our coverage region.

To do this well, and to respond fully to the urgency of our times, we need your support. This is why Southern Jewish Life has been developing a base of contributors in addition to the businesses that advertise with us.

The equation is simple: More dollars=More pages=More stories.

We have the stories, we just need more space to run them — and you can help by becoming a donor to Southern Jewish Life.

To contribute, send a check to SJL, P.O. Box 130052, Birmingham, AL 35213, or go to https://sjlmag.com/contribute/ (Donations to Southern Jewish Life are not tax-deductible.)

Please consider becoming a Southern Jewish Life donor. Your dollars for sure will make an impact in 2022 as we keeps chugging along.

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

their Jewish identity and being “kids” all during her medical treatment.

With grants from JCRS, all three boys not only attended Jewish summer camps, but also attended college with aid from JCRS, and all were involved in athletics. Shellie died in February 2009.

Jonathan, the oldest, attended Austin College in the class of 2009, and was the kicker on the school’s football team. As a Senior he founded Hersh Brothers Kicking, a kicking camp that trains successful athletes of all ages.

A budding soccer star, before eighth grade his coach pulled Jonathan aside and told him he would be playing football that year. He became a running back, but since there was a need for a kicker, his soccer experience paid off and he switched positions.

Jonathan has coached football at DeRidder, La., and is currently at Texas City ISD. Craig, the middle son, attended the University of Houston-Clear Lake and played soccer in high school, and then for the Houston Football Association, as well as for the US Maccabee Men’s Open Team which competed in Australia. Now working for Pearson, he was previously a science teacher in Dickinson.

Robert, the youngest son, entered Texas Southern University in 2008, becoming one of only two Jewish place kickers at a Historically Black College and University. During one of his games as a freshman, he kicked three field goals in a 30-29 win over Alcorn State, and the team presented a signed game ball to Shellie at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

That Thanksgiving, the Hershes had 15 of the players over for Thanksgiving. Ed Hersh told the Jewish Herald-Voice in 2012 that “She was overjoyed to have a house full of football players, and when it was time to return to the dorms, each boy gave her a hug and kiss.” But the cancer pain became overbearing the next day and she returned to the hospital, never to return home.

A month before she died, Ed Hersh’s father died from cancer.

In 2009, Robert and Jonathan started Hersh Brothers Kicking and Punting Camp, in honor of their mother and grandfather. The camp is for aspiring kickers of all ages and genders.

Robert continued kicking for Texas Southern, and in 2010 the team won the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship for the first time in school history. The next year, though, he tore a quad muscle in his leg two weeks before what would have been his senior season started, keeping him on the sidelines. After wondering if he would be able to play again, he recovered and had a medical redshirt.

At the season opener in 2012 he came in for a 47-yard attempt with four seconds left. Thinking of his mother, he sailed the kick through the uprights for a 44-41 victory over heavily-favored Prairie View, a team they had not defeated in six years. Later that season, he hit a 32-yarder to beat Grambling State.

Ed Hersh credits the JCRS grants for summer camp with inspiring his sons to broaden their Jewish identities, visit Israel and complete college. “Without assistance from JCRS, they could not have gone,” he said. “The impact from JRCS was greater than we could have imagined, especially during family medical issues.”

Basketball Legacy For the Grunfeld family, basketball became their legacy. A Stanford basketball standout who played professionally in Europe and Isra- Dan Grunfeld el, Dan Grunfeld is the author of “By the Grace of the Game: The Holocaust, A Basketball Legacy and an Unprecedented American Dream,” about his father, Ernie Grunfeld, who is the only child of Holocaust sur-

community vivors known to play in the NBA. Ernie was born in Romania. His mother was saved from deportation from the Budapest Ghetto by the actions of Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, and his father was in a work camp in Romania. After the war, the family sought to immigrate to the United States from Romania, arriving in 1964 after a six-year wait. Ernie was 8 years old.

Growing up in Queens, Eddie discovered basketball and was All American his senior year, and was the only high school student selected to start on the 1973 U.S. team at the World Maccabiah in Israel.

He went to the University of Tennessee, where he became the university’s all-time leading scorer, a record that stood until 1993. He was teammates with Hall of Famer Bernard King, and they were known as the “Ernie and Bernie Show.” His number was retired in 2008, making him the second Vol to receive that honor — after King.

In 1976, he was part of the gold medal winning U.S. Olympic basketball team.

Drafted 11th overall, Eddie played for Milwaukee, Kansas City and the New York Knicks, retiring in 1986. He was radio analyst for the Knicks for three years, then moved into management. In 2003 he became president of basketball operations for the Washington Wizards, a position he held until 2019.

At Stanford, Dan led the team in scoring and was named All Pac-10.

Undrafted in the NBA draft in 2006, he signed with a team in Germany — after getting permission from his grandmother, who had lost seven immediate family members in the Holocaust. He then played in Spain, and from 2010 to 2014 was in the Israeli Basketball Super League.

In 2009, he was part of the U.S. team that won the gold medal at the World Maccabiah Games. That team was coached by Auburn basketball head coach Bruce Pearl.

After his playing days, Dan received his MBA at Stanford and is now in venture capital in Silicon Valley.

Strug, who grew up in the Tucson, Ariz., Jewish community, is known for one of the most iconic Olympics moments. In the 1996 Games, the U.S. and the dominant Russian gymnastics teams battled in Atlanta. Down to the last event, the U.S. team needed one Kerri Strug good score on the vault to win, but the first four U.S. gymnasts did not have clean vaults, and then Dominique Moceanu fell on both attempts. It all came down to Strug, who fell on her first attempt, injuring her ankle.

In hindsight, the U.S. would have won gold without a second vault, but there was still a Russian performance to come, so the outcome was uncertain. Strug pushed through the pain and landed the second vault with a score high enough to ensure the gold medal, then almost immediately collapsed on the mat. She had two torn ligaments and a sprained ankle, and her coach carried her to the gold medal platform, after which she went to the hospital.

After the Olympics, she enrolled at UCLA and became more active Jewishly, and lit the torch during the opening ceremonies of the 1997 World Maccabiah Games.

The gala, co-chaired by Barbara Kaplinsky, Carole Cukell Neff and Sue Singer, will feature a seated three-course dinner, music, and a silent auction focused on sports memorabilia, once-in-a-lifetime vacations and sporting experiences. All proceeds from the event will support the needsbased scholarship programs and services of JCRS for Jewish children throughout the Mid-South.

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Mississippi State University athletic director John Cohen is a distinctly Southern Jew — and proud of it.

Growing up in Tuscaloosa, Cohen clung to his Jewish roots, even when it was not easy, and today takes pride in being one of the Southeastern Conference’s most visible Jewish personalities.

A former MSU baseball coach, Cohen has had much success in the athletic arena, especially during his current stint as the school’s athletic director.

According to the university, Cohen has overseen “arguably the greatest era in Bulldog athletics history,” highlighted by a 2021 College World Series Championship, the school’s first national title in any team sport. Since Cohen became athletic director in 2016, 44 Mississippi State teams have advanced to NCAA postseason play, including a school-record 13 during the 2018-19 athletic year.

In a recent Zoom chat, though, it was Cohen’s commitment to his Jewish identity and support that he and his wife Nelle provide for Jewish students at the Starkville campus that were the focal points of the conversation.

Cohen, whose parents were educators — his dad was a University of Alabama professor and his mom was a high school teacher — grew up in a home where Judaism played a prominent role.

Even today, at the age of 55, he reflects on his Bar Mitzvah and the impact it had on him.

“I still view my Bar Mitzvah as a huge moment in my life, a seminal moment. At age 13, I was called upon to convey a message. For a 13-year-old to have to do that is an incredible opportunity — and reflects that in Judaism everything has a purpose.”

Not Always Easy Growing up Jewish in the Deep South, however, was not always easy for Cohen.

“As a Jewish kid in the Deep South you lead two lives, especially as an athlete. You are part of the larger group but apart from the group and you’re going to hear antisemitic comments — especially if the name on the back of your jersey is Cohen.”

Still, he wouldn’t trade being a Southern Jew for anything.

“I don’t believe antisemitism is exclusive to the South. I think growing up in the South far outweighs the negatives of antisemitism. The South is not perfect, it’s not cleansed. But things certainly are better than they were in the 1960s and 1970s.”

His pride in being a Southern Jew lends an extra dimension to the life that he and Nelle, who converted to Judaism, have carved out for 16

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

The SJL July 2021 cover: Nelle and John Cohen hold the trophy after Mississippi State won the baseball championship themselves in Starkville as perhaps the city’s and university’s most prominent Jewish couple.

In Starkville and in Mississippi in general Cohen feels totally comfortable as a Jew, even though there are only an estimated 1750 Jews in the state and an estimated 25 Jewish students and 10 Jewish faculty at MSU. Cohen sees Mississippians in general as open, charitable and accepting of others and more diverse than people might imagine. Moreover, because it is such a religious state, he believes people tend to respect the Cohens for their commitment to their own faith.

John and Nelle embrace their roles as Jewish leaders with enthusiasm and pride.

“The Cohens are tremendous supporters of Hillel,” said the organization’s MSU president, Tyler Daniel.

“Prior to Covid, we had an annual tradition of enjoying a dinner at their house, which was a great opportunity for our Jewish students to connect with both John and Nelle as individuals, as fellow Jews, and as university officials.”

Very Supportive The Bulldog athletic director and his wife regularly field calls from throughout the country from parents and prospective students asking what it’s like to be Jewish at MSU. Their answer is positive.

“I think this is a very supportive place — not just for Jews but also for people of all backgrounds,” said Cohen. “I have always felt that way, even when I first came here at age 19 after

community transferring from Birmingham-Southern College.”

This baseball player turned coach turned athletic director has worked at other schools over the years and also played minor league baseball.

Yet in the end, it’s maroon and white — MSU’s colors — that captured his heart long ago and continue to course through his veins. His roots in Bulldog athletics run deep.

Cohen played baseball at MSU from 1988 to 1990 and played on the school’s 1990 College World Series team. In 2008, Cohen, who was baseball coach at the University of Kentucky, was named baseball coach at his alma mater, posting a 284-203-1 record in eight years before becoming athletic director, with five postseason appearances including runner-up at the College World Series in 2013.

Starkville has been a great fit for this outgoing, down-to-earth Tuscaloosa native. He has built an outstanding resume as a coach and athletic director and found a home where he can be a proud Southern Jew and pursue his passion for sports in what is considered the best college conference in the nation.

One of the SEC’s other prominent Jewish personalities is Auburn University basketball coach Bruce Pearl. Cohen and Pearl feel a connection to each other. On those Saturdays in the fall when Auburn and MSU meet on the gridiron, the two typically cross paths and wish each other a “Good Shabbos.”

Today, sports and Judaism blend nicely for Cohen. In both athletics and Jewish life everything has a purpose, as he said about Judaism while reflecting on his Bar Mitzvah.

And it is in sports these days that he sees a higher purpose — and a powerful venue for Tikun Olam, a Jewish principle that calls on Jews to dedicate themselves to healing the world.

“Sports are now much more than sports. At this divided time in our country, sports are a bridge. Once their favorite team is on the field, the vast majority of fans no longer care about political, racial or religious differences. The person sitting next to you becomes your friend.”

Nelle Cohen’s unexpected journey

By Richard Friedman When Nelle Bashinsky was growing up in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, she never imagined that she would marry John Cohen.

More far-fetched was that she would become the wife of the Mississippi State University athletic director.

However, the last thing this young woman could have ever anticipated was that one day she would become Jewish.

“John and I were just friends in high school. Good friends but just friends. He was Jewish and always into sports. I wasn’t interested in sports. And I had been baptized in an Episcopal church.”

One never knows what’s ahead, and now at age 53, Nelle Cohen is living an intriguing life she never could have envisioned.

She and John would begin dating — “You know how that works. All of a sudden friends become more than friends.”

Her life would become filled with sports as John, after playing baseball at MSU and in the minor leagues, began climbing the coaching ladder.

Her encounters with Jewish thinking about God would transform her life and lead her to embrace her husband’s faith.

“The Jewish belief that God is omnipresent and intimate, yet infinite and ultimately unknowable, became a source of inspiration and comfort to me.”

Her saga is a fascinating tale, and this descendant of one of Alabama’s best known families — the Bashinsky family who once owned Golden Flake, famous for its potato chips — tells her story with relish.

She also tells it with irony because it turns out that Nelle is not the first Jewish person in her family. Her great-great grandfather, Leopold Bash-

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insky, was Jewish. He was born in Prussia in 1851 and came to the U.S. when he was 15. He had relatives in Georgia and Alabama and wound up settling in Troy, Ala.

Spiritual Home “Before John and I got married we hadn’t really talked about religion and how it would work between us. We just loved each other and wanted to get married. Though I’d been baptized, I didn’t really feel connected to religion.”

It wasn’t until the Cohens had children that she had the urge to find a spiritual home for their family. Her husband at the time was baseball coach at Louisiana’s Northwestern State University in Natchitoches.

“I didn’t know anything about Judaism, so I started taking my children to an Episcopal church. Not only did I realize this was going to be confusing for them, I also realized that I didn’t want a household with two separate faiths.”

So she started visiting a rabbi in Alexandria, about an hour away, to learn more about being Jewish. Converting, though, was not on her mind at this point. “I didn’t want to convert just because it was the ‘convenient’ thing to do. If I was going to do it, I wanted it to be for the right reasons not simply because I was married to someone Jewish.”

The turning point came when her husband became head baseball coach at the University of Kentucky in 2003. Their kids were now six and eight.

Lexington offered their family a bigger Jewish community and Nelle became very involved in their synagogue.

“They had this fantastic group of older women who ran everything in the kitchen during the High Holy Days. They welcomed me and took me in, and I just started volunteering.”

As her daughter approached the age of 12, the idea of converting started to take hold. “I loved these people. I felt like they were my people.”

So right before her daughter became a Bat Mitzvah, this Christian-raised Alabamian officially became Jewish. “Right after my conversion ceremony, we had a blessing of our marriage. It was like another wedding. It was a very profound spiritual moment for me.”

Days of Awe There’s one more piece to the Nelle Bashinsky Cohen story which she openly shares as she reflects on her odyssey into Judaism.

“I am in long-term recovery for alcoholism. I got sober when I was 25 — in 1993. The spiritual process of recovery through the 12-Step program was another powerful factor that made me start searching for a faith that had meaning for me.”

The answer, she concluded, was right in front of her: Judaism.

“The process of reflection, atonement and renewal during the Days of Awe is so very much in line with my journey through 12-Step recovery work — or perhaps I should say vice versa. Becoming Jewish just felt like a perfect fit.”

Today this vivacious First Lady of MSU Athletics goes about her unexpected life with energy and purpose — from attending MSU sporting events, to meeting Jewish families who come to campus, to playing a leadership role in the betterment of Starkville, to devoting herself to her two adult children and aging parents.

And there’s one more thing she never could have expected — the excited call she got last July from her mother-in-law in Tuscaloosa.

MSU had just won the College World Series and the Cohens were pictured on the cover of Southern Jewish Life magazine holding the championship trophy and beaming.

“It was a great moment for John’s mother. She had just gotten the magazine out of the mailbox. She is so proud of John, especially because there are not many Jewish people working at that level in college athletics.”

But that isn’t all John’s mom had to say, her daughter-in-law recounted with a smile.

“Nelle,” her mother-in-law added, “I never thought you’d wind up being the cover girl for a Jewish magazine.”

18

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

CONNECTED BY

you

The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans knows a lot about connection. Our deep-rooted New Orleans southern hospitality and way of life here has equipped every single one of us with that laissez bon temps rouler attitude and that little lagniappe, as we demonstrate passion and love for each other. Our need and ability to help others feel welcome are the very essence of who we are as a people and as a community. That’s why your Federation is the convener, the funder, and the programmer—the connection to provide support to our Jewish community both in our beloved city and overseas.

CONNECTED BY community

Through our Annual Campaign each year, we support and bring comfort to those who need it most. Your gift has an impact on so many areas, including the educating our children, strengthening family life, comforting the frail and elderly, and providing relief to victims of natural disasters and global crises. You help us keep our community strong and thriving.

“I think that, for the future, it is so, so, vital that we continue to raise money for our community so that we can support the services in our community—I know I am very excited about being part of bringing our community back together, because after all, if you live here, you have resilience, or you would not live here. So please help Steve and me to bring our community together, and to support the people of the Jewish community in New Orleans.”

- Nancy Timm, 2022 Annual Campaign Co-Chair

CONNECTED BY kindness

Whether it is assisting Ethiopian Jews integrate into Israeli society, offering counseling to the parents of troubled teens here in New Orleans, promoting lifelong health and wellness for our senior citizens or even having meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion with our BIPOC community partners, we are the conveners who work to make change through kindness.

“We’re working very hard to make sure that folks on every side realize we have much more commonality than difference and it’s Federation’s goal to bring all members of every racial and ethnic community together to stand shoulder to shoulder with each other and fight bigotry, hate and discrimination. We are very fortunate in New Orleans to have an engaged and active Jewish community to be the leaders in these collective efforts.”

- Arnie Fielkow, CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans

CONNECTED BY giving

For the 2022 Annual Campaign, we will continue our customary breakdown of 70% local, 30 % overseas distribution of funds, while more than 85% of the annual campaign dollars raised go directly to those who need it most.

THE match

Goldring Family and Woldenberg Foundations Match: During the 2022 Annual Campaign, the Goldring Family and Woldenberg Foundations are generously matching all new gifts at 25%. If you are a recurring donor, an increase to your existing gift will be matched at 25%, with the remainder of your gift matched at 12%. Each dollar truly makes a difference in the lives of those who need it most!

CONNECTED TO us

On behalf of our 2022 Campaign Chairs, Nancy and Steve Timm, and the entire Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans staff and leadership, we invite you to join us by making a gift to the 2022 Annual Campaign. Make an impact, because we are all connected by all of these values—and especially you. How? 1. Transfer stock to the Federation’s Morgan Stanley Account (#575-060565239). Contact Carla Marciniak at carla. marciniak@morganstanley.com or 504587-9645 (please be sure that your name is on the stock transfer). Kindly contact the Federation office at 504-780-5600 to notify Federation what kind of stock and how many shares have been transferred.

2. Make a gift from your Jewish Endowment Foundation donor advised fund, and email sherritarr@jewishnola.com that information.

3. Donate from your IRA through a regular distribution.

4. Mail a check (payable to the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans) to 3747 W. Esplanade Avenue, Metairie, LA 70002.

5. Give online at jewishnola.com/give or scan the QR code at the left.

GIVE NOLA

day

On Tuesday, May 3, 2022, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans will once again participate in the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s annual 24-hour day of online giving, Give Nola Day. Mark your calendars now–we need your support!

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life 19

ALLOCATIONS &

funding

The funds raised through the Annual Campaign and other revenue streams are allocated into three primary blocks: support for our Greater New Orleans community and its Jewish agencies, funding for Israel and overseas needs, and Federation programming and operations. Most funding is allocated to the four constituent agencies (the Jewish Community Center, Jewish Community Day School, Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans, and Tulane Hillel)—including a substantial subsidy to make the Goldring-Woldenberg Jewish Community Campus affordable to its tenants—as well as local and national beneficiary agencies.

Here’s the breakdown of allocations for 2021: ADL $17,825 (unrestricted) Avodah $3,750 (unrestricted)

Jewish Family Service $129,301 (unrestricted) $4,006 (capital allocations) Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans (for the benefit of the Goldring-Woldenberg Jewish Community Campus)

BBYO $3,000 (unrestricted) Chabad Jewish Student Center $2,935 (unrestricted) Communal Hebrew Vouchers to Synagogues $67,200 (restricted | 168 students) Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life $1,500 (unrestricted)

$9,365 (capital allocations) Jewish War Veterans $750 (unrestricted) LimmudFest New Orleans $1,925 (unrestricted) Moishe House $1,300 (unrestricted)

Hadassah $1,110 (unrestricted)

Overseas Allocation: American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee/Jewish Agency for Israel/ Jewish Federations of North America/World ORT $638,812 (unrestricted)

Jewish Children’s Regional Service $14,000 (unrestricted)

Taglit: Birthright Israel $8,000 (unrestricted)

Jewish Community Center JCC Metairie $54,690 (unrestricted) JCC Uptown $226,062 (unrestricted) JCC Metairie/Uptown $19,600 (capital allocations)

Slater Torah Academy $1,350 (unrestricted)

Jewish Community Day School $56,940 (unrestricted) $9,554 (capital allocations)

Tulane Hillel $71,175 (unrestricted) $8,732 (capital allocations) URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp $1,000 (unrestricted)

DID YOU KNOW? On average, your campaign dollars support more than 18 million hours of home health care to elderly Jews across 11 time zones and 11 countries through the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC).

20

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

BECAUSE GIVING GROWSCAMPAIGN community 2021 ANNUAL The Annual Campaign is the cornerstone that supports the building of a vibrant Jewish community in Greater New Orleans, Israel, and 59 countries around the world. Every year, our community-wide campaign raises funds that help support the vital human services and Jewish education provided by our local, national, and international agencies. These funds have a daily impact on the education of children, strengthening of family life, providing care and comfort to frail elderly, and sustaining our partnerships here and overseas.

The 2021 Annual Campaign continued our customary breakdown of 70% local, 30% overseas distribution of funds. It is through the generosity of our Jewish community that the Federation is able to provide support. Your financial contribution enables us to fulfill the obligation of tzedekah. Tzedekah means justice, and justice demands that we as Jews connect with those who are in need. Thank you very much to everyone who contributed!

$100,000 +

Cahn Family Foundation Goldring Family Foundation Woldenberg Foundation

$50,000 - $99,999

Mr. & Mrs. Morris Bart Alan & Diane Franco Milton Rosenson Fund Anonymous (1)

$25,000 - $49,999

Sydney & Walda Besthoff Foundation Harriet Handelman Maury A. Herman Lisa & Brian Katz Morton & Carole Katz Dr. Julius L. & Donna Levy, Jr. David & Jan Oreck Julie Wise Oreck Bill & Leslie Rau Mr. & Mrs. Leon* H. Rittenberg, Jr. Joshua L. Rubenstein Anonymous (1)

$10,000 - $24,999

Carol & Harold Asher Dr. Marc Behar Darryl & Louellen Berger Marjorie Bissinger Nancy Bissinger Jane Bories Vivian & Richard Cahn Dora Ferber Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Carla & Louis Fishman Joshua & Mara Force Robert Force Forgotston Philanthropic Fund Richard & Linda Friedman Steven & Bethany Friedman Robin Levy & R. Justin Garon

Ana & Juan Gershanik Kurt A. Gitter & Alice Rae Yelen Gitter Charles & Cathy Glaser Susan & Lou Good Mauriciu Arnold Granet Designated Fund Lisa & Mark Heller Sandra Heller Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Mr. & Mrs. Fred L. Herman William & Susan Hess Dr. & Mrs. Harris Hyman III Mr. & Mrs. Blake Jones Jonathan Lake Sherry & Alan Leventhal Mintz-Easthope Foundation Morris & Melinda Mintz Peter & Barbara Newhouse Dr. Sanford Pailet Sarah & Joe Pasternack, Jr. Sidney & Joyce Pulitzer Karen & Leopold Sher William Sizeler Dr. Edward L. Soll Karen Soll Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Rob & Pamela Steeg Rian & Teri Tanenbaum Nancy & Steve Timm Bernard Van Der Linden Harold Wainer Dr. Michael & Lynne Wasserman Robert & Marie Wolf Frances S. Wolff *

$5,000 - $9,999

Jack & Phyllis Alltmont Judy Barrasso & Brent Barriere Lauren Baumgarten Gerald Berenson Fund Valerie Besthoff Dr. Edward & Elissa Bluth Kelley & Guy Brenner

Robert & Caroline Brickman Rick & Ina Davis Arnie & Susan Fielkow Margot Garon Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Mike & Marcy Gertler Dr. Dov & Margie Glazer Louis A. & Lillian L. Glazer Family Foundation Carol Good Susan & Howard Green Byrde Haspel Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Albert & Rea Hendler Endowment Fund Russ & Sandra Herman Babs Isaacson Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Dr. Alan & Linda Jacobs Dorothy S. Jacobs Andrew Jacobs Darleen M. Jacobs-Levy Scott & Leslie Jacobs Stanley* & Peggy Jacobs Tamara Jacobson Terry & Shellie Jacobson Dr. & Mrs. David B. Kaplan Ellen & Stan Kessler Betty Kohn Ruth & Laurence Kullman Stephen & Mara Kupperman Anne Lowenburg Stephen & Ellen Manshel Tamara Mayer Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Lois Mexic Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Julie Grant Meyer Betty Meyers Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Parkside Foundation Dr. Stuart & Ida F. Phillips Dr. William & Karen Pinsky Hannah Rau Rebecca Rau Paul & Edith Rosenblum

Stephen & Sandra Rosenthal Alvin & Madilyn Samuels Jonathan & Debbie Schlackman Florence & Richard* Schornstein Dana & Louis Shepard Kathy & Hal Shepard Scott & Julie Silbert Jane L. Sizeler Michelle & Shea Soll Maureen Weil Stein, MD Rodney & Jane Steiner Janice & Louis Stern Benjamin & Jodi Jones Swig Dr. Matthew & Sherri Tarr Anne Uhry Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Bruce & Ellie Wainer James Weiss & Audrey Browne Hon. Jacques L. Wiener, Jr. & Sandra M. Feingerts Richard Wilkof Carol B. Wise Anonymous (1)

$2,500 - $4,999

Jacqueline & Beryl Ames Jack & Jennifer Benjamin, Jr. Ronna Burger & Robert Berman Marilyn & Marvin Bernstein Dr. Harris M. & Bonnie Blackman Nini & Henry Bodenheimer Morris Campell Designated Fund Bob & Mindy Caplan Dr. Stuart & Gail Chalew Dr. & Mrs. Errol Genet Dr. Richard Gitter Dr. Robert A. Hammer Steven & Ann Harris John Haspel Dr. Howard & Marcia Hirsch Lee & Jacob Kansas Dr. Mark & Susan Kappelman Judge Jacob & Vicki Karno

* Deceased Bolded Names Represent a New or Increased Gift Lion of Judah Endowment Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment February 2022 • The Jewish Newsletter

21

Celia L. Katz Herman Kohlmeyer, Jr. David & Laura Kulick Dr. Barry & Charlotte Leader Lawrence Lehmann & Dashka Roth Charles & Renee Levy III Donald I. Levy Stephen A. & Donna Loeb Barbara & Sanford Maslansky Mitchell & Christie Mintz Andree Moss Richard & Carole Neff Dr. Thomas Oelsner Dr. William & Karen Pinsky Billy & Janie Rippner Madalyn & Robert Schenk David Radlauer & Julie Schwartz Lee E. Sear Shirley & Ralph Seelig Dr. Ivan M. Sherman Gregg & Ellen Soll Peter & Vicky Sperling Mark & Amy S. Stein Sylvan* & Judy Steinberg Steven Usdin Judge Miriam & Bruce Waltzer Wayne & Amy Yuspeh Renee F. Zack Marilyn Pailet Zackin Charles Zucker Endowment Fund Anonymous (1)

$1,000 - $2,499

Michael Allweiss Stefanie Allweiss Cary & Lisa Amann Aimee & Steven Bain Ellen & Mark Balkin Patricia Latter Barnett Mrs. Herbert Barton (Sue) Mark & Jaymi Baum Linda & Neil Baum Allan & Nikki Berger Donna Kay Berger Shelly & Benay Bernstein Steven Bingler & Linda Usdin J. Joseph Blotner Harry Blumenthal, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Bories Joy & Andrew Braun Lee & Tamie Bressler Dr. Danny & Melanie Bronfin Michael Brown & Linda Green Mr. & Mrs. Perry S. Brown Richard & Katherine Buckman Alan & Sandra Burshell Dr. Daniel Caplan Dr. Gerald P. Cohen 22

Mrs. Rose P. Cohen Jay & Avery Corenswet Greg & Joan Cox Jerome & Cathy M. Dattel David & Sue Daube Lenny Davis Michael Davidson George & Mildred Denegre Jill Dupre & Joshua Mayer Warren & Rachel Edelman Dr. Mark & Rochelle Adler Effron Robert & Ann Eisen Richard & Kyna Epstein Sylvia & Israel Finger Debra J. Fischman Dr. Nathan & Leslie Fischman J. David Forsyth Mrs. Charles Frank, Jr. Tripp & Heidi Friedler III Prof. & Mrs. Joel Friedman Dr. George & Laura Fuhrman Gaba Fund Dr. Bruce Gandle Dr. Vadim & Michele Gelman Rabbi David & Lauren Gerber Dr. Harley & Susan Ginsberg Laura Glazer Ned & Wendy Goldberg Dr. Jay & Terri Goldsmith Rabbi David & Shannie Goldstein Julian Good, Jr. Sherrie & Alan Goodman Carole Gottsegen Dr. Marshall I. Gottsegen Mr. & Mrs. Michael Hecht Barbara Herman Steve & Honorable Karen Herman Jerry Jacobs Dr. Marc & Chris Kahn Dr. Margie A. Kahn Allan & Robin Kanner Jeffrey & Betsy Kaston Richard L. Katz David & Geneva Kerstein Richard & Patricia Kirschman Dr. Frederick & Ivy Kushner Dr. Rene & Janet Koppel Ronda & Sheldon Kottle Paul I. Kullman Terrence & Andrea Lestelle Dr. Alan & Marilyn Levin Dorothy G. “Dot”Levin Drs. Walter & Laura Levy Glenn & Judy Lieberman Rabbi Bob & Lynn Loewy Henry & Jane Lowentritt Stacey & Joshua Lowentritt, MD Dr. Arthur & Bonnie Lustig

February 2022 • The Jewish Newsletter

Mark Madderra Rebecca Maisel Diana & Chip Mann Carrie & Austin Marks Gillian & Charles Marks Carol Marx James Meyer Jan & Henry Miller Stephen & Dee Moses Ted & Leann Moses Beth & Ellis Murov Max Nathan, Jr.* Carol & Dale Newman Randy & Kathy Opotowsky Drs. Joy & Howard Osofsky Marjory Greenberg Palkama Rick & Suzette Perles Larry & Ann Rabin Dr. Ronald & Diane Rabin Ilana & Dr Efrain Reisin Carol Rippner Leon & Heather Rittenberg III Randolph Roig & Brian Weimer Ricky Rosenberg Henry & Susan Rosenblat Howard W. & Candice Rosenblum Andre & Robbie Rubenstein David & Niki Rubenstein Will* & Jennifer Samuels Lisa Sanders Lee & Susan Scharff Mark & Diane Schleifstein Emily Schoenbaum Stanley Schwam Dr. & Mrs. Jay M. Shames Derek Shanman & Elise Henry Jonnie & Diane Share Rob Shepard Gary & Nancy Silbert Jay & Stacy Silverstein Mark & Bryna Singerman Bruce Spizer Charles & Lynn Smith Stephen & Caroline Sontheimer Sidney Steiner Laurie & Paul Sterbcow Charles & Jackie Stern Michael L. Stern Susan Sternberg Leona Stich Lois & Joey Sutton Audrey Threefoot Dr. Hilton Title Peter & Sheryl Title Dr. Louis & Betty Trachtman Mark & Melissa Wagner Rochelle Wald Eileen Wallen Jonathan Wallick

John L. Weil Dr. Michael & Diane Wilensky Ginny Wise & Kevin Wilkins Dr. Aaron & Daliah Wolfson Ellen & Marc Yellin Ed Young Dr. Lawrence & Joan Zaslow Gary & Lisa Zoller Anonymous (3)

$500 - $999

Kelly & David Abramson Neil & Kim Abramson Bill & Madonna Abroms Carlos Adame Dr. Kenneth & Bebe Adatto Aaron & Elizabeth Ahlquist Drs. Ellen Schneider & Samuel Alexander Dr. Robert & Debbie Applebaum Bradley & Daniela Bain Paul & Arlene Barron Lee Blotner Michael Botnick Benjamin & Darrah Caplan Max & Ellen Cohen Sandy & Sarah Cohen Arnold & Arlene Cooper Bennett & Lisa Davis Tracey & Michael Dodd Philip Deutch Linda Fendler Philip & Sue Frank, Jr. Mollie Fried Reuben & Marlene Friedman Lynda Friedman Deena Gerber Judge Robin Giarrusso Dr. Peter L. Glaser Jacqueline Gold Dr. Melvin H. Gold, Jr. Tim & Sheila Gold Sandra Chass Goldsmith Drs. Jeffrey & Linda Green Marilyn Green Mark & Linda Greenbaum Juliet Greenberg Elaine & George* Haas Lane & Marsha Halteman Amy Gainsburgh-Haspel Lisa & Michael Herman Kenneth & Monica Hoffman Mitch & Susan Hoffman Michelle Horton Dr. Jack A. Hudson Jeffrey & Andrea Huseman Dr. Ben & Augusta Jacobs Lisa & Richard Karlin Andrew & Paige Katz * Deceased

Bolded Names Represent a New or Increased Gift Lion of Judah Endowment Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment

Jan W. Katz Keith & Evie Katz Michael & Jane Katz Hirsh Katzen & Melissa Marshall Peter Koeppel & Kathy Muslow Jane N. Kohlmann Victor & Bunny Koock Dr. Richard Kugler Marilyn Kullman David & Carole Kushner Robert & Renee Kutcher Dr. Sam & Gila Lehrer Seth Levine & Alexa Pulitzer Dr. Stephen & Sheri Levine Saundra Levy Harvey & Gail Lewis Thomas Lowenburg & Judith Lafitte John & Stacey Weinreb Lutz Amy & Jedd Malish Elizabeth & Larry Manshel Donald & Carol Markowitz Barry & Marciann Marks Joel & Toby Mendler Dr. Carl & Shirley Merlin Hope Meyer Bruce & Dr. Jane Miller Herbert Miller Mark Mintz & Jennifer Kitner Marion & Harry Mohre Garrett Moore & Tammy Nguyen Burt & Michelle Neal Marilyn L. Neumann Gerald Newman Judy Newman William D. Norman Family Fund Marilynn Oelsner Larry & Naomi Orlansky Debbie Pesses Leon Pesses Joel & Paula Picker Lee & Jill Plotkin Arthur & Sandra Pulitzer Copey Pulitzer Dr. Ronald & Diane Rabin Dr. & Mrs. Elliott & Sandy Raisen Dr. Gary “Taavi” & Charlotte Reiss Toni Weiss & Gary Remer Dr. Greg & Renee Shear Rich Letty Rosenfeld Mark & Kara Samuels Dr. Charles & Reda Scher Claude & Mimi Schlesinger Michael & Jill Schneider Jane Greenberg Schramel Don & Keiran Schwarcz Gary Sernovitz & Molly Pulda Alon & Emily Shaya

Shlenker Family Foundation Dan & Jackie Silverman David R. Silvers, MD Irl & Phyllis Silverstein Bob & Fran Simon Jeremy Soso & Rose S. Sher James M. Spiro Eilene & Barry Spizer Rob Steinberg & Patrice Jones Lynne Rothschild Stern Joanna Sternberg David & Judy Stiebel Carol Stone Lee & Ellen Sucherman Karen & Lance Turkish Evette Ungar Stanley & Roselle Ungar Lee Vorisek & Patricia Joyce Paul Waldman Cedric & Julia Walker Roger White Lorraine Lake Williams Sam & Heide Winston David Wolf Dr. Neil & Sharon Wolfson Shael & Laura Lee Wolfson Skip & Marsha Zander David & Rella Zapletal Maxwell & Lorenza Zwain Anonymous (3)

$250 - $499

Peter & Jodi Aamodt Ann Abbrecht Dr. Diane Africk Lazelle Alexander Charles & Mary Lynn Alltmont Sabina A. Altman Dale Aronson Allison Bach Alexander & Eva Barkoff Marc & Angela Beerman Mat S. Berenson Matt & Brooke Berger Rachel Bergman David & Halley Berins Kenneth & Sue Rae Brown Bishop Brandon & Rachel Bissinger Bob & Felicia Boggio Ronnie Brenner Barbara Bresler Debra L. Bresler Barri Bronston Cory & Sarah Cahn Virginia & Michael Castine Dr. Jeanie Cohen Rick Cohen Cantor Joel Colman Sidney A. Cotlar

Mark & Meredith Cunningham David & Karen Curry Marc & Sherene Dahlman Jared & Casie Davidson Alan & Laurie Diamond Dr. David & Kristen Dulitz Dr. Lester Dulitz Ben & Katie Elliott Joyce Ellis William & Deborah Fallis Jason & Rachael Feder Ted & Juli Fee Dale Fleischmann Michelle Foa Norma L. Freiberg David & Judy Fried III Pam Friedler Dr. Aaron & Devorah Friedman Jonathan & Holly Friedman Marc & Susan Friedman Mr. & Mrs. Asher Friend Colette & Joe Friend Marshall & Jane Gerson Carli & Josh Gertler Louis & Debbie Gertler Joseph & Cassie Giarrusso Jeffrey & Xiying Gimble Jan & N’ann Glade David & Caitrin Gladow Scott & Ashley Merlin Gold Harrison Golden & Ashley Barriere Caroline & Jeff Good Bonita Gordon Mike & Julie Green Barbara B. Greenberg David & Lauren Greenberg Eric & Jillian Greenberg David & Jenni Hammer Seth Harris & Julie Schwam Harris Michelle Allen Hart Ronald & Daisy Heumann Morris H. & Joan Hyman Steven A. Jacobson Jack & Susanne Jernigan Nathan & Carrie Kanter Susan Mintz Kantrow Howard Kaplan Mark & Barbara Kaplinsky Lisa & Richard Karlin Beverly Katz Helen A. Katz Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan R. Katz Philip & Ruth Katz Dr. Ralph P. Katz & Dollie S. Gill Kenneth Klein Steven & Pat Klein Keith Kornman Mr. Jacob Kottle Dr. Kevin & Janet Krane

Zach & Emily Kupperman Betty & Harry Lazarus Gary Lazarus Leonard L. Levenson Jonathan L. & Adele Levy Sara Lewis Kathryn Lichtenberg Robert & DeeGee Liniado Nancy Litwin Cantor Kevin Margolius David & Erin Merlin Rabbi Barbara Metzinger Dr. Richard & Sharon Meyer William & Gabrielle Mimeles Peter & Mary Ann Moss II Robert & Barbara Namer David & Tiffany Oestreicher II Lillian Opotowsky Dr. Brad & Killian Philipson Isaac & Rebecca Pinhas Marcy L. Planer Dr. Scott & Jenny Pollack Helen & Andrew Polmer Alan & Valerie Posner Dr. Karen Weissbecker Remer Staci Rosenberg Matthew Rosenthal & Dr. Shira Glazer Ira & Walkie Rosenzweig Laurence D. Rudman Kathy A. Rush Robert Salus Jeff Sbisa Florence Scharff Dori & Jack Schulman Peter Seltzer Bill Murray & Gene Shapiro Nanette Shapiro Joseph & Esther Shefsky David Shepard David & Jane Sherman Michael & Carey Sherman Elliot & Susan Shushan Marjorie Shushan Wendy Simmons Randye & Terry Snyder Joy Stahl Edgar A. Stein Karen Glaser Stein Richard P. Stone Shaw & Ann Thompson Steven & Andra Thorpe Roger & Diane Tygier Patty & Randy Ungar Arthur & Martie Waterman Dr. John Weil Daniel Weiner Dr. Nathan S. Wexler Wesley & Mindy Whitfield

* Deceased Bolded Names Represent a New or Increased Gift Lion of Judah Endowment Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life 23

Judge Jerome Winsberg Marcel & Elizabeth Wisznia Brian & Megan Yellin Dr. Ellen Zakris Mike & Janice Zazulak Rebecca Zwart Anonymous (6)

$100 - $249

Andy & Aleeza Adelman Keith & Stephanie Adler Amy Alexander Mr. & Mrs. Michael Applebaum Bonnie & Jay Aronson Jeff & Allison Asher Brian Bain & Julie Koppman Scott & Consuelo Barron William Taylor Barry III Bob Batterman & Lorna Blake David & Betsy Becker Hal & Linda Becker Barbara Beckerman Barbara Beerman Kolmon & Holli Berger Deborah Berins Jane Berins Benjamin & Carol Berman Ali Bernstein Joe & Joan Biderman Jacqueline Bishop & Herbert Halpern Aaron Bloch Seth Bloom Linda & Bobby Brandt Gilbert & Jody Braunig Gary & Phyllis Breaux Tad & Lainie Breaux Larry & Ginger Brook Joel Brown Judith Brown Richard Buchsbaum & Johnny Dennis Dr. & Mrs. Aden A. Burka Anne M. Chirinos Dr. Charles & Natalie Cohen Diane Cohen & Mike Nusbaum Elinor & Ernie Cohen Gayle Cohen Samuel Cohen Rabbi Edward & Andrea Cohn Dr. Laurence M. Cortez Sean & Kassie Cosgrove Diane Cotlar Josh & Gigi Danzig Sawyer & Brook Bissinger Davis Avrom & Cindy Denn Ed & Theresa Dennis Dr. Alan & Sharon Deshazo 24 February 2022 • The Jewish Newsletter

Ben & Fran Dinehart Mr. Alan L. Director Dr. Martin J. Drell Gordon & Karen Dumont Myra Ungar Dunn Dr. Evan & Emily Dvorin Justin Ehrenwerth & Dana Dupre Drs. Kenneth & Melanie Ehrlich Alan Emerman Noah & Gia Emerson Craig & Vicki Herman Evans Samuel Falchook Shellye Farber Gabe Feldman & Abigail Gaunt Sheila Fenton Michael Finkelstein Dr. Marc & Debbie Fisher Mitch & Catherine Frank Rachel & Scott Frank Dr. Paul & Jessica Friedlander Joshua & Lindsay Friedmann Dr. Jason Gaines Dr. Abraham & Fanya Gedalia Andrew & Jamie Berger Geiger Ellis Gensburger Alex & Maureen Gershanik Dr. Esteban Gershanik Linda Gibbs Pam Gibbs Doug & Cathy Gitter Marion M. Giuffria Dr. Leonard N. Glade Michael & Sarah Glazer Jacob & Michelle Goehring Lisa Goff Philip Goldberg & Maple Dynan Clem Goldberger & William Morgan Kitzi Goldman James & Robin Goldsmith Mark Goldstein & Peggy Usner Jonathan Goodman & Samantha Slovy Blayne Gothard Drs. Bradley & Leslie Gottsegen Dr. George Greenberg Cynthia Greenwald Jack R. Gross The Ron Gubitz Family Barry & Darlene Gurievsky Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Gutter Dr. Lawrence & Kelly Haber Barbara Haberman Jeff & Terri Haffner Ed & Joelle Halpern Marc & Esther Hendler Jason & Nancy Hintersteiner Rae Horton

Lee Isaacson & Cynthia Knight Elaine Kabat Cathy & Charles Kahn Morris & Ann Kahn Adam Kancher & McKensie Kirchner Alan Kansas Jerome Kanter Vicki Kaplan Ellen Katz JoAnn & Larry Katz Carey & Anne Kaufman Mark & Mary Katherine Kaufman Katherine Kay William & Lisa Keleher Jeffrey & Kerry Kessler Kris Khalil Chris & Ann Kientz Susan Kierr Michael & Ashley Kirschman Scott & Geraldina Kisner Joseph & Marilyn Kline Stanley & Naomi Yavneh Klos Robert & Millie Kohn Dr. Arian Elfant & Chris Kornman Judith Kossover Stefan Kostolitz Sara & Stuart Kottle Nathan Krasnoff Leo Krasnozhon Emmett & Shelley Tyler Kron Kay Kronenberg Shane & Allison Kupperman Irwin & Judy Lachoff Joseph & Carol Lange Jeff & Liz Laufer Leo & Michele Laventhal Sharon W. Leader Hal & Bina Levkowitz Joshua Lichtman & Davida Finger Mrs. Sidney S. Light David & Chesney Loeb John Lovett & Mauyra Kilroy Harry Lowenburg Pamela & Jack Lyles, Jr. Kevin & Allison Maney Larry Mann Barbara Marcus Jeanne Margolin Linda Mauskopf & Robert Larsen Peter McDonald Dr. Marilyn Mendoza Carol & Alvin Merlin Daniel Meyer & Jennifer Barriere Margaret Meyer Sidney & Ellen Raye Miller Mike & Brenda Moffitt

Boris & Janet Moiseyev Keil & Margaret Moss Robby & Leigh Moss Neil Nadler Toni Nadler Harriet Netto Jonathan & Jen Nierman Dr. Joel Nitzkin William & Dorris Norman, Jr. Eric & Robyn R. Nowak Daren & Andrea Oppenheim Jose & Frida Orrego Joseph & Karen Ortenberg Glenn R. Ostrow Dan & Susan Pancamo Eric & Ann Parnes Rochelle Pearl Rabbi Josh Pernick Gail Fenton Pesses Harold & Janet Pesses James & Meredith Petrone Barbara Polikoff William & Betty* Procell Charlene Pukof Sarah Rabin Sam & Natalia Ramer David & Corey Rittvo Ripley & Traci Roane Dr. Allan Rosenberg & Gwendolyn Koltun P.J. & Anna Rosenberg Brad & Jacqueline Rosenblat Richard Rosenfeld Morris & Mary Rosenzweig Marty & Dale Welsch Roth Mark & Andrea Rubin Dr. Richard & Mary Rubin Gary Rubins Drs. Katy Wiltz & Ernest Rudman Rochelle Sackett Larry & Loel Samuel Dr. Bruce S. Samuels Rudolph & Sarah Schatzmann Natalie Seltzer Ellen Rae & John Shalett Mel & Briann Shear Samantha Shear Dr. Alan & Joan Sheen Brian & Sara Shepard Rabbi Daniel & Morgan Sherman Irving & Phyllis Shnaider Helen Siegel Robert Siegel Rabbi Deborah Silver Rabbi Todd Silverman David Silverstein Seth Silverstein

* Deceased Bolded Names Represent a New or Increased Gift Lion of Judah Endowment Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment

Judy Steeg Simkin Drs. Eric E. Simon & Cathy Lazarus Dr. Jeffrey Singer Randal & Jamie Singer Timothy C. Slater Alan Smason Sidney Smith Lynny Fendler Steiner Mary Stern Scott & Breland Sternberg Kim & Lisa Stolier Leah Plantowsky Stone Garland & Elizabeth Strother Ronald & Elayne Sutton Elizabeth Black & Steve Sweet Sue Tart Christian & Hallie Timm Bonin Aran Toshav & Rebecca Friedman Tana Velen Heidi Vizelberg Dr. Gregory Vorhoff Joel & Toni Waltzer Dr. Marcus Ware & Irina Foxman-Ware Frederick D. Weil Barbara Weiner Jan Weiner Jason & Christine Baer White Bernard Widofsky David S. Willenzik Harrel A. Zivitz Dr. Ian Zlatkiss Joshua & Julia Zuckerman Lee & Jennifer Zurik Sam & Jennifer Zurik III Anonymous (14)

$1 - $99

Alfred Abramson Susan Adler Justine Aguiar Rebecca Alexander Jennifer Ami Kathryn Anderson Joell Anisman Annette Auerbach & Jack Day Sara Barnard John & Doris Baron Arianna Baseman Erica Berkowitz Phyllis Bernstein Craig Bialy Bryan & Jessica Carter Blasé Stephen Blitz & Mery BeitHalahmi Dr. Michael & Colleen Block Harriet Blumenthal Josh Bobo & Shira Spiegel

Lauren Bombet Alan Borenstein Eric & Cathy Botnick Craig & Aviva Bowman Robin F. Bronston Nathan Brown & Elana Jacobs Frannie & Charles Buchtel Jenna Burt Sandra Cameron Sandra Carp Rabbi Mendel & Chaya Ceitlin Ari Chalew Jonas Chartock Rabbi Yossi & Rivkie Chesney Barry & Lane Cohen Donna Louise Cohen Jonathan & Jeanne Cohen Marilyn Cohen Michael & Shira Cohen Dr. Michael & Susan Cohen Brigette C. Cohn Rene & Tana Coman Lisa Conescu Robert Conescu Tiffany Cotlar & Tommy Furlow Sarah Covert Charles Samuel Cox & Rabbi Lexi Erdheim Sally Cox Ken & Jennifer Daley Jackie Dallimore George Dansker Brian Daube Toby David & Dana Keren Serena Deutch Rosalie Dulitz Omri & Alexis Einav Chad & Rachel Eriksen Mattison & Jessica Farah Dr. & Mrs. Donald Faust Myrna Fawer David Feder Jana Lipman & Eli Feinstein Marilyn Felder Martin Felder Dr. Alan & Jennifer Fertel Steven & Meaghan Fielkow Shane & Courtney Finkelstein Diana Fischman Martin & Daniella Fischman Linda Spiegel Fisher Gideon Fishman Daniel & Catina Forman Shelley Forman Shelley Freed David & Anne Freedman Dianne Green-Freeman & David Freeman Irma Freibaum Elizabeth Freudmann Edwin Fried

Lois Friedman Lynn J. Friedman, PhD, LPC Dr. Marion Freistadt Alysse Fuchs Lou Furman & Nan Katz Greg Gansar Lilli H. Geltman Eliana Michelle Ginsburg Jennette Ginsburg Joan Allenberg Giraud Aaron & Jamie Gleiberman Aaron Goldberg Edmund W. Golden Erica Golden Shayna Goldfine Michael & Brenda Goldman Shirley B. Goldman Elizabeth Goldstein Martin Goldstein & June Leopold Sandy & Renee Goldstein Leigh & Nancy Sternberg Goodman Diana Gorlin Melissa & Bruce Gordon Dena Grenell Hank Greenwald Robert & Valborg Gross Charlene Schwartz Gubitz & Jeff Gubitz Joseph & Samantha Guichet John & Staci Strauss Guillot Irene Gurievsky Judi P. Guth RJ & Stephanie Kaston Gutierrez Zina & Felix Gutkovich Carson & Kelsey Haddow Curtis & Amelia Halstead Josh Hare Nicole Harvey Donna Heier Emma Storm Herr Nicole Heyman Irene Hirsch Karen Hochheiser Dr. Brian & Svetlana Horowitz Lori Hurvitz Bruce & Susan Ingber Samuel & Kathleen Jacob Mimi Jalenak & Kathleen Atwood JJ Jensen Ginny Kullman & Cameron Johnson Kaare Johnson Adrian Juttner Jordon & Avital Kadosh Adie Strom Kaplan Beverly Kaplan Robert & Maxine Kaplan Alex Kaufman Ryan & Julie Kenter Dr. Clifford & Arvilla Kern III

Zed Jane Kesner Aaron & Caitlin Klinger Kathy Kornman Alan M. Krilov Cantor Samuel Krush Ernie & Jan Langlinais Ariel Lanis Anne Cheek LaRose Miranda Larsen Austin & Beth Shapiro Lavin Keith & Luanne Liederman Gerald & Susan Levin Benjamin & Elexa Levine Ellen Levy Samara Levy Stanley & Anne Levy Nathan & Robin Lew Chana Lewis Sally Lindsay Jake Lipsman & Rachel Zoller Miriam Lorbert Abe Lubritz Lesley Lucas Tim & Anamaria Lupin Eric Malamud Max Manasevit Michael Mann & Ashleigh Caston Kim Sherman & Steve Mardon Leo & Alla Mauer Daniel A. Mayer Nathan & Tzlil McDonald Brian Mears & Adie Kaplan Jack & Rachel Merlin Kevin & Andrea Merlin Damion & Carrie Michaels Norman & Lila Millen Adam & Rebecca Miller Terrell Mims Betty Moore Marian D. Moore Lisa Moses Parker & Rachel O’Dwyer Moring Benny & Orit Naghi Effie Naghi Rabbi Yossi & Chanie Nemes Joshua Nidenberg Judith L. Nowalsky Sherie Mirpuri & Ian Oberhelman Jared & Samantha Katz Oberlin Rita Olmo Jay & Janice Oppenheim Jessica Orgeron Carol Osborne Nate & Brianne Oxenrider Allyson Page Theone Perloff Avraham & Sara Pertuit Charles & Teresa Pinsky Sierra Polisar Richard & Dana Radu * Deceased Estelle Reiner

Bolded Names Represent a New or Increased Gift Lion of Judah Endowment Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life 25

BECAUSE WE HELP PEOPLE

everywhere

Since 1913, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans Annual Campaign has directly supported local, national and overseas programs—supplying critical services to those in need, strengthening the Jewish people, and inspiring a lifelong passion for Jewish life and learning. Our primary role? To raise the funds, so that our partner agencies can focus on what they do best: providing invaluable social services across New Orleans and around the world. In 2021, the Annual Campaign raised $2,615,135. This included 1,222 donors, 19 brand new gifts, and 218 gift increases.

WHERE OUR FUNDS

go

The funds we raise are allocated to three main pools: community support, Israel and overseas social services, and Federation programming and operations.

CONSTITUENT & BENEFICIARY AGENCIES We help fund four local constituent agencies: the Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Community Day School, Jewish Family Service, and Tulane Hillel. These organizations receive unrestricted core funding and capital allocations, investment fund allocations, and other revenue sources. We additionally fund a number of beneficiary agencies.

METAIRIE CAMPUS SUBSIDY Our Goldring-Woldenberg Jewish Community Campus houses the Metairie Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Community Day School, and the Jewish Federation. The Federation substantially subsidizes rent and maintenance costs.

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS This includes missions, the Edie & Paul Rosenblum Gift of Israel Program, Communal Hebrew School Vouchers, and the Jewish Newcomers Program.

FEDERATION OPERATIONS & PROGRAMMING The Federation’s operating costs include JNOLA, JNEXT, the Goldring Family Foundation Center for Jewish-Multicultural Affairs, the Sherry and Alan Leventhal Center for Interfaith Families the Jewish Community Relations Council, the Katz-Phillips Leadership Development Program, social action outreach, and administrative/staffing costs.

ISRAEL & OVERSEAS We allocate funds to the Jewish Federations of North America (our umbrella organization), the Jewish Agency for Israel, including Partnership2Gether, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee and World ORT. Dave & Chantal Reinlieb Sandy Rhein Rabbi Mendel & Malkie Rivkin Joe Robert Paul Rogers & Carey Herman Robert & Jolene Rothman Rebecca Russell Rachel Ruth Yeffet & Susan Saidi Scott & Shelly Saltzman Naomi Samuels Charisse Sands Dr. Mark A. Sands Frank Sapir Gisele Schexnider Dr. Coleman & Elsa Schneider Dr. David & Helen I. Schneider Judilyn Schneider 26

February 2022 • The Jewish Newsletter

Neil & Jennifer Schneider Nathan Schwam & Danielle Nice Arielle Schwartz Brian Schwartz Jeff Schwartz & Amy Barad Matt & Christa Schwartz Judy Schwartzer Beverly Serebro Adrienne Shulman Estelle Sieff David & Jana Siles Barry & Susan Simon Rob Simoneaux & Jenny NathanSimoneaux Dr. Charles & Rhea Simonson Jane Soslow Barbara Spiegel Jon & Marlene Steinberg

Alessandro & Julie Steinhaus Helen Stone Robert & Nicole Stone Dr. Andre Marc Strumer Christopher & Megan Sullivan Judith Tanenbaum Amanda & Eli Timm Roberta Torman Ricardo & Marcela Totah Joan Fischer Tuchman Anna Tucker Dr. Melanie Sheen & David Tucker Jeff & Michele Varon Idan & Lina Warshawski Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Watermeier Sarah Wexler Elliott & Nicole Kotler Wiener

Dennis Wilson & Jenny Schwartzberg Gary & Lynn Wolf Nikki Katz & Forest Christopher Wootten Dr. Mark & Barbara Workman David & Lisa Wurtzel Douglass & Mallory Gershen Wynne Liz Yager Dean & Darlene Yellin David & Gretchen Zalkind Betty Zelman Paul Zimmering Samuel & Melanie Zurik Gary Zwain Anonymous (10)

* Deceased Bolded Names Represent a New or Increased Gift Lion of Judah Endowment Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment

Jewish Family Service

2022 Bruce Levy Memorial JFS Passover Food Basket Program For the past 36 years, generous donors like you helped ensure that everyone in our community had access to a Seder during Passover. Now, in the 37th year of the Bruce Levy Memorial JFS Passover Food Basket Program, we are asking you to help us again.

Mental health, mobility, and financial challenges should never keep a member of our Jewish community from the Seder table. Say Hineni, Here I Am, and help vulnerable members of our community, like Lori* and Hannah*, find their seats at the table.

Lori* & Hannah*: 2021 Bruce Levy Memorial Passover Food Basket recipients “It was the greatest blessing to not have to worry about shopping and cooking while Hannah was in the hospital,” Lori wrote to JFS in a thank you letter. “It was so nice to be taken care of, to still celebrate Pesach, which we needed more than ever. Thank you for this beautiful program and for helping us this year.” *We use pseudonyms to protect client privacy

Donate to the Bruce Levy Memorial JFS Passover Food Basket Program: Mail: 3300 W. Esplanade Ave. S., Suite 603 Metairie, LA 70002 Note “PFB” in the memo Online: jfsneworleans.org/donate

Donate Your Vehicle Donating your vehicle to JFS is a convenient and easy way to support our programs and services, earn a tax deduction for yourself, and get rid of that old car. For more information, visit jfsneworleans.org/vehicle-donate

Phone: (504) 831-8475

JFS Accepts All Medicaid Plans JFS accepts all five Medicaid plans. JFS also accepts Medicare, along with other insurance policies for Counseling Services: Aetna, United Healthcare, Blue Cross and Blue Shield PPO & HMO, Blue Connect, Gilsbar, and Tricare.

We also accept sliding scale based on household income.

Counseling for individuals, couples, families and groups is a core community service of JFS. Licensed behavioral health professionals provide guidance and support on how to cope with interpersonal and family problems. Appointments are available.

To make an appointment, call (504) 831-8475.

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

27

Jewish Community Day School Happy Birthday Trees!

Last month, JCDS threw the trees a special birthday party on Bart Field in honor of Tu B’Shevat. Students participated in the very first “Plantapalooza!”

Children honored all things plant-related at five different stations set up with activities honoring our leafy friends.

Students also planted parsley seeds in pots they decorated themselves. The parsley should ripen right in time for Passover, linking Tu B’Shevat’s promise of spring with its realization on Passover. Everyone was asked to continue to honor the spirit of Tu B’Shevat by enjoying the great outdoors and working toward protecting our environment.

Green Preschoolers certainly weren’t left out of the Tu B’Shevat fun! They read “Tap the Magic Tree,” an interactive story which helps a tree change with the seasons. Children jiggled, shook, tapped, and even blew kisses on the pages to help the tree along. Green Preschoolers are also creating tree art.

They can’t wait to show-off their finished tree collage using real elements from their garden on Bart Field. Music Teacher Lauren Gisclair introduced some new tree songs in music class, too!

Gates of Prayer JFlex and JCDS Parents Association Celebrate at Longue Vue Gardens On Jan. 16, families from JCDS and Congregation Gates of Prayer J-FLEX went to Longue Vue Gardens to celebrate Tu B’Shevat. Organized by the JCDS Parents Association, close to one hundred people had a blast participating in activities like a tree scavenger hunt, planting a citrus tree and parsley plants, arts and crafts, and digging for worms! Everyone had too much fun to notice the cold weather!

After-School Art with Abby Wetsman After-school art is a big deal at JCDS! JCDS Art Teacher Abby Wetsman introduced two new classes for the Fall 2021 session: “Rain or Shine” and “Stitch.” In “Rain or Shine,” students let outside elements be their guide. They used rainwater to activate their water colors, then let wind push the color around the paper. They drew shadows with colored pencils and chalk, taking notice of the changes in shadow positions from the beginning of class to the end. The bright sun, strong wind, and chilly weather didn’t always make class easy, but the final works revealed beautifully layered visual studies. In “Stitch,” students practiced threading needles and tying knots.

They experimented with tension, made up their own stitches, and created layered fabric collages. The final pieces showcased students’ intricate, beautiful work.

For the Winter 2022 Session, Ms. Abby is introducing” Creation Stories.” Using creation stories from around the world as inspiration, students draw, paint, and collage the story of the day. It is no surprise that Ms. Abby’s after school art classes are always full!

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February 2022 • The Jewish Newsletter

Interdisciplinary Approach To celebrate Tu B’Shevat, third and fourth graders in Liz Amoss’ class learned a little about bald cypress trees. They broke open several cones, discovered seeds inside, and planted them in tiny pots and glass jar terrariums. They took the time to personify the stately state tree in poetic form in coordination with Art Teacher Ms. Abby, who assigned oil pastel cypress tree art.

Jewish Community Center Specialty Fitness Classes are Now Free A JCC Gold membership gets you even more in 2022! Specialty fitness classes like TRX and barre are now included for free as part of a Gold membership. These specialty classes are small group, high-efficiency sessions that provide the individual attention of a certified trainer and the fun environment and camaraderie of a class.

fitness goals. Our Barre-J class merges techniques from ballet, yoga and Pilates. Using the ballet barre, light weights and resistance bands, this class offers a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens and tones, creating long, lean muscles.

Because they are taught in a small group format, classes can be tailored to each individUsing functional movements and body- ual’s abilities. No experience is necessary and weight based resistance, TRX Suspension all levels are welcome.

Training provides total-body workouts that Between our two locations, the JCC offers active all of the muscles at once to build over 85 free group exercise classes each week. strength, mobility, and endurance. Whether Why travel around town to different fitness participants want to get stronger, improve per- boutiques to get a good workout when the formance, or tone and lose weight, the work- JCC has it all? Join the J and try a class today! outs are a fast, effective and fun way to achieve

Summer Fun Starts at the J Get ready for summer! Registration for JCC Summer Camps opens to the community on Feb. 15 and units at both the Uptown and Metairie locations are filling quickly. Tailoring programs to match the changing needs of children from toddlers to preteens, the JCC packs summer days with a variety of games and activities including sports, art, drama, music, cooking, science, Israeli culture and daily swimming. Summer is a special time for children to change their routine, expand their social circle, and advance swimming skills.

The J’s dedicated and caring staff ensures that campers have opportunities to explore their interests, discover new ones, and develop meaningful friendships.

weeks do not need to be consecutive. Families will receive the ‘early bird discount’ if they register by March 15 for camp Uptown or by April 1 in Metairie. Visit nojcc.org/camp to apply and to learn about all the fun that awaits campers during a summer at the J!

Join Team NOLA in San Diego The JCC Maccabi Games return this summer! Local Jewish teens are invited to be part of Team NOLA, the New Orleans JCC’s delegation at the San Diego Maccabi Games, held July 31 to August 5. Come have a blast at the largest Jewish youth event in the world.

Teens participate in athletic activities, and then come together for social events, community service and fun.

Athletes ages 13 to 16 can compete in either individual or group sports. Team sports include baseball, basketball, e-sports, flag football, ice hockey, soccer and volleyball.

Individual athletic activities include competitive dance, golf, tennis, swimming and table tennis.

The 2022 summer camp runs June 6 to July 29. To maintain a safe and healthy environment, all staff and age eligible campers must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19, as defined by the CDC, by May 6. Campers are required to enroll in a minimum of four weeks, but those

To register or to learn more about the New Orleans delegation, please visit nojcc.org or contact Neal Alsop, Uptown Sports Director, at (504) 897-0143 or neal@nojcc.org.

Silver Sneakers Comes to Metairie Our Metairie location now welcomes SilverSneakers members. In addition, two SilverSneakers classes have been added to the group exercise schedule. SilverSneakers Yoga is offered Tuesday at 11 a.m and and SilverSneakers Classic is Friday at 10 a.m.

Taught by SilverSneakers certified instructors, these classes

are appropriate for beginners and are free both to Gold members and SilverSneakers participants. JCC Silver-level members are welcome to join a class for just $10. Contact Katelyn Sileo, Metairie’s membership director, at (504) 887-5158 or katelyn@nojcc.org for details and to verify membership eligibility through SilverSneakers.

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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Jewish Endowment Foundation Investing in Our Community: JEF Now Accepting Grant Applications Grant making is at the heart of what we do at the Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana. Besides distributing grants on behalf of our fundholders, JEF also uses General Fund grants to support organizations that benefit our community. One way that we do this is through providing programming grants to Federation’s four constituent agencies — Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans, the Jewish Community Day School of Greater New Orleans, and Tulane Hillel — with annual block grants. Another way that JEF uses its General Fund is to offer grants to a variety of nonprofit organizations across the state that help ensure a strong and vibrant future for our Jewish community.

JEF is excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for the 2022 Spring General Fund Grants cycle! First and foremost, a JEF General Fund Grant provides funding for Jewish and secular organizations that significantly benefit the Jewish community. Additionally, the JEF Grants Committee is responsive to requests that help launch new initiatives, expand successful existing programs, or address an emerging critical need.

Eligible nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for these grants, which are awarded twice annually during JEF’s Spring (March 1) and Fall (September 1) General Fund Grants cycles. Poten-

tial applicants may review the guidelines and access the application at www.jefno.org/grants/.

JEF’s General Fund exists largely thanks to annual donations from our community members. Our General Fund is also supplemented

by Donor Restricted and Board Designated Discretionary Funds established by the generosity of Dorothy and John Clemmer, Helen P. and Henry Lasoski, Nathan and Bluma Polmer, Leonard E. Prelutsky, Babs and J.E. Isaacson, Oscar and Marjorie Tolmas, and Linda and Jack Zoller — all of blessed memory.

In 2021, JEF’s General Fund Grants supported Jewish organizations such as Avodah New Orleans, National Council of Jewish Women, and the Anti-Defamation League. We also assist Jewish causes like building an Eruv in New Orleans and hiring a Community Security Director. As well, during another especially challenging year, JEF allocated funds for Hurricane Ida and Covid-19 relief to community members in need.

JEF is so thankful for the continued support of our donors that allows us to make a difference in our Jewish community. If you are interested in applying for a JEF General Fund Grant, you can learn more on our website, or by contacting Board and Grants Manager Miriam Teller (miriam@jefno.org).

Tulane Hillel Tulane Hillel welcomed students back to campus with several exciting events and programs. To start off the semester, Tulane Men’s Basketball partnered with Tulane Hillel to host Jewish Heritage Night for the game against Tulsa. Hillel facilitated Jewish trivia during half-time and timeouts, and gave out T-shirts with Tulane written in Hebrew.

Students and Hillel staff cheered on Tulane Basketball as they dominated Tulsa! This was an awesome opportunity for the community to support both Tulane basketball and Hillel all at the same time.

fering an alternative Spring Break trip for 15 Tulane undergraduate students from all backgrounds to Urban Adamah, a Jewish urban farm in Berkeley, Calif. This exciting new program will include cooking, convening with nature, and an opportunity to learn so many new life skills. Students will get their hands in the soil while exploring mindfulness, social action, Jewish tradition, and sustainable agriculture.

“Actually learning about food and where/how things are made entirely shifted my perspectives on food justice, sustainability and community.

Learning about the Jewish earth connection and This spring, Tulane Hillel will also be of- industrial farming completely changed my views on connecting with the earth, the divine, and my food.” — MH ‘21, Los Angeles, Calif.

Onward Israel 30

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

themselves in contemporary Israeli culture, environment, and politics.

Students will engage in group activities and weekend seminars with a cohort of other Tulane students. They will also have the chance to explore Israel and Tel Aviv on their own time and enjoy the exciting night life, food, beaches, and culture. Ultimately, students will expand and deepen their professional skills and relationships with this new, exciting program that Tulane Hillel is offering to its students.

Lastly, in a triumvirate of inaugural programming, this summer, Tulane Hillel will be hosting their own Onward Israel Program. This 8-week program offers students a chance to build their resume through a high-level internship based on their very own skills, interests, and their To keep up to date with all things Tulane future plans. During the students’ time Hillel, visit us online at tulanehillel.org and in Israel, they will have the opportunity follow us at facebook.com/tuhillel or @tuhilto intern 4 to 5 days a week and immerse lel on Instagram!

community

Amid anxiety, antisemitism study may have silver lining South and elsewhere in the U.S. have A jarring new study on antisemitism may in- enjoyed for decades. clude a silver lining.

One in Four Targeted That’s how Dov Wilker, Southeast regional Among other findings, the study director for the American Jewish Committee, showed: sees the results of a recent survey his national • 90 percent of American Jews think organization did on what he and many others antisemitism is a problem in the Unitsee as growing hostility and hatred toward Jews ed States today. in the United States.

• Approximately one in four (24 The results from Wilker’s Southern region, percent) American Jews has been the which includes Alabama, Mississippi, Louisitarget of antisemitism over the past 12 ana, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and months.

South Carolina, do not differ significantly from • Approximately four out of every the national data.

10 American Jews (39 percent) have Jews throughout the South, like American changed their behavior out of fear of Jews in general, believe antagonism toward Jews antisemitism. is increasing. Many have personally witnessed • Four in ten Americans of all backor been the target of antisemitism and some grounds (41 percent) have personally have become inhibited about expressing their witnessed an antisemitic incident in the last 12 Jewish identity publicly. months.

These are serious and significant trends, • More than 80 percent of both Jews and the and represent a departure from the relatively U.S. general public consider anti-Zionism —as comfortable and hate-free lives that Jews in the represented by the statement “Israel has no right

By Richard Friedman

to exist” — to be antisemitic.

These findings were most recently underscored by the Jan. 15 hostage-taking incident at a Texas synagogue.

“We are breathing a deep sigh of relief that

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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community all of the hostages were safely rescued at Congregation Beth Israel,” said Wilker. “This is yet another reminder that the Jewish community is on edge because of the rise of antisemitism.”

Three Causes The American Jewish Committee attributes the dramatic increase in hostility and hatred toward Jews to three broad causes: the growth and growing prominence of the radical right, which harbors antisemitic attitudes and has a growing Internet presence; Islamic radicals who promote hatred of Jews and Israel; and far left groups that demean Israel at every turn, singling out the Jewish state for hostility and criticism that is often unfair and inaccurate.

In addition, history shows that antisemitism tends to increase at stressful political, social and economic times — all of which the U.S. is facing today. People who are angry and feel disenfranchised often look for a scapegoat.

Frustration caused by the Covid pandemic coupled with the radioactive political divisiveness coursing through the country has put the U.S. in an emotional straitjacket, and there are signs, especially on social media, of growing scapegoating of Jews.

In a recent op-ed, Wilker wrote “Sadly, 26 percent of Jewish people who live in the South have avoided in the last 12 months publicly wearing, carrying, or displaying items that might help people identify them as Jewish.”

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

Through the fog of it all, though, Wilker, a seasoned Jewish community leader, sees a possibility.

The study showed that about two of three Americans actually know Jews but that a third don’t, something Wilker sees as fertile ground for both his organization and himself personally.

The American Jewish Committee study also revealed a correlation between levels of antisemitism and lack of interaction with Jews. “Put simply, we want people to know more Jews,” said Wilker. “If someone knows at least one Jewish person and has a relationship with that person, their level of antisemitism tends to drop dramatically.”

He pointed to a recent news story on a project in Germany that could serve as a model.

The story, which ran in the Wall Street Journal, was headlined, “‘Meet a Jew’ Program Aims to Tackle Rising Anti-Semitism in Germany” and described the project as “a new program that seeks to fight stereotypes by inviting some Germans to meet Jews for the first time.”

Wilker, a veteran American Jewish Committee leader, is capitalizing on this survey finding by displaying his own Jewish identity more publicly than in the past.

Speaking at a rally against antisemitism sponsored by the Birmingham Jewish Federation last June, Wilker explained that he now wears a kippah regularly, not only to be identified visibly as a Jew but to create conversations, particularly with those who’ve never met a Jew. As he explained in his article, “While it is a religious practice, it is an easy identifier so that people will know that I am Jewish. My kippah serves as an educational opportunity to the non-Jewish community to inquire about Judaism — our practices, rituals, history and culture, all of which is infused by 2,000 years as a diaspora community.”

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Leaving the JCC in a good place Leslie Fischman stepping down as executive director after navigating major expansion, Covid challenges From hurricanes to pandemics, New Orleans has the ability to throw curveballs into plans. When Leslie Fischman steps down as executive director of the New Orleans Jewish Community Center in the near future, she will have stayed a little longer than she planned.

A national search is underway for her successor, and she has agreed to remain until the position is filled. She will still be around after she retires, as she has three grandchildren in the nursery school; next year it will be all four.

Fischman started at the JCC in 1997 as the special events and fundraising director, shortly after a major renovation was completed. After seven years, she became assistant executive director under Arlene Barron for seven years.

Fischman became executive director in March 2011. Noting that seven is her lucky number, she figured on being executive director for seven years, and then retiring. Instead, she stayed for 11 years, because in 2015 the agency embarked on a major capital campaign to expand the facility.

“Every inch of space in this building was being utilized and crowded,” she said.

The $9 million campaign, the largest in the JCC’s history, added 14,000 square feet to the Uptown location, along with the Oscar J. Tolmas Aquatics Complex and enhancements to the Metairie location. The expansion included a youth activities center and an indoor pool, which they never had previously.

Serving the Hamantaschen at the Purim Adloyada in 2020 The renovation “modernized the building, it gave us more space, we have an area where you can sit and work on your laptop while you are waiting on your kid.”

Programming at the JCC has continued to expand, in a goal “to be the town square of the Jewish community, where all are welcome,” she said.

They engage all ages, “from 1 to 101.”

The JCC has focused on “more family engagement, more intergenerational engagement” and offering “the best cultural programs that we can.”

But Covid “did slow us down with certain programs.”

When Covid hit, the JCC had its all-time high in membership units, but with the pandemic “we took a dive and a pause.” She decided to stay

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33

community on through the end of the Covid crisis, “to get us on a good track” and hand over a strong agency to her successor.

When she took over after Barron retired, “the Center was in a very good place, so it was easy for me to pick up and keep going, and that’s how I want to leave it for the next director.”

As Covid moves from a pandemic to something that hasn’t completely gone away, “we are figuring out how to work with Covid.” She said they have been taking a deliberate approach toward reinstituting programs, especially family programs.

The nursery school was operating in pods as the students are too young to be vaccinated. “That has prevented us from doing larger gatherings,” Fischman said.

But as 2021 came to a close and restrictions loosened, they were still able to have some major programs. Close to 300 attended a Chanukah concert with the Maccabeats, a total that could easily have gone higheer,

Book burial planned all over New Orleans In Jewish tradition, books with God’s name have to be buried instead of thrown out when no longer usable. Gates of Prayer in Metairie has “hundreds” of books that need to be buried, and Rabbi David Gerber said it is far too many for their cemetery “without undergoing a significant excavation.”

The congregation is inviting members to take old prayer books home and bury the books in their yards, or keep them for their own use. A cart is available this month with books and the instruction to “take as many as you like.”

On March 20, the congregation will have a community Zoom to bury books together in the various locations, in a service led by the congregation’s rabbis.

but “we wanted to keep some social distancing.”

A Walter Isaacson talk drew over 200, and some traditional JCC holiday events were held as drive-through celebrations during the year.

Fischman said she is optimistic that more programs will open up as 2022 moves along. She noted that people are starting to go back to the gym, and they are expanding their group fitness offerings. Pool hours have been extended because more people want to do lap swimming.

The recent Center Celebration was also reworked to be a non-event — neither in person nor virtual, but a straight-up appeal for support. She said “people have been very generous and we have been very successful.”

Ironically, “my main job when I started was to run the Center Celebration,” Fischman noted. “My last year, I didn’t have an event.”

One item she says she did not accomplish to her satisfaction has been the need to increase the JCC’s endowment funds.

And even with the major expansion, “there is still more work to do,” she said. Recently, the front entrance was reworked for accessibility and security. In the nursery school, they are trying to renovate one or two classrooms each year.

“It has been a great journey. I’ve enjoyed it,” she said, but “it’s time for new blood to keep moving us forward.”

Board Chair Aimee Bain said she “cannot say enough about Leslie’s unwavering dedication to the J over the past two and a half decades and her steadfast leadership as executive director since 2011.” She mentioned the “immensely successful” capital campaign and said that “even in the face of adversity, most recently evidenced by the one-two punch of Covid and Hurricane Ida, Leslie guides with the exclusive focus of preserving our Jewish mission and making the J a welcoming place for all generations to learn, play and enjoy.”

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* Guaranteed not to clog for as long as you own your home, or we will clean your gutters for free. **Consumer Disclosure/Award Rules: All participants who attend an estimated 60-90 minute in-home product consultation will receive a $50 gift card. No purchase is necessary. Retail value is $50. Offer sponsored by LeafGuard Holdings, Inc. Limit one gift card per household. LeafGuard procures, sells, and installs seamless gutter protection. This offer is valid for homeowners over 18 years of age. If married or have a life partner, both cohabitating persons must attend and complete presentation together. Participants must have a valid photo ID, understand English, and be legally able to enter into a contract. The following persons are not eligible for this offer: employees of LeafGuard or affiliated companies or entities, their immediate family members, previous participants in a LeafGuard in-home consultation within the past 12 months and all current and former LeafGuard customers. Promotion may not be extended, transferred, or substituted except that LeafGuard may substitute a gift card of equal or greater value if it deems it necessary. Gift card and terms and conditions (https:// www.darden.com/gift-cards/terms-and-conditions) of such gift card will be mailed to the participant via first class US Mail within 21 days of receipt of promotion form provided at consultation. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion or discount of any kind. Offer not sponsored or promoted by Darden Restaurants and is subject to change without notice prior to reservation. Offer ends 2/28/2022.

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

Embrace the Spirit of

COMMUNITY

senior life

More Freedom, Purpose, and Peace of Mind in a Northshore private-residence Senior Living community with no buy-in fees

an annual SJL special section

What’s your plan?

Seniors who live independently faced impossible challenges due to the pandemic. How does that change your planning for the future?

By Kim Nonenmacher Seniors in our community had an exceptionally difficult year. Those living independently faced new challenges. They couldn’t rely on the usual support from visiting family and friends.

They were isolated and managed their household tasks unassisted. Seniors with caregivers worried that such essential help was actually putting them at risk. Even with recommended precautions, seniors struggled to access the care they needed while protecting themselves from Covid-19.

Schedule a Tour: (985) 273-3810 601 Holy Trinity Drive, Covington •

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Seniors in Isolation While isolation and social distancing helped seniors avoid coronavirus, it exposed them to unforeseen dangers. Many seniors faced interruptions to their normal diets, social habits, and even medications. Such isolation also meant that no one was noticing small changes in physical limitations, health concerns, or safety issues. Without early identification of new challenges, seniors couldn’t access the appropriate treatments, therapies, or medication.

Their physical and mental health suffered. Mood changes, anxiety, depression, and withdrawal impacted many seniors, especially those who live independently.

Caregivers, too, felt helpless and stressed while trying to find adaptations and solutions to an impossible situation. Many of our client families felt that the pandemic exacerbated underlying issues they were long ignoring. Others chose to remove their loved ones from care facilities for fear of the virus.

While much of our life might ‘return to normal’ once we reach herd immunity, the pandemic shone a light on many of the unique challenges seniors face, pandemic or not. What can you do for yourself or your loved ones?

What’s Your Plan?

Aging independently is what many seniors hope for in their golden years.

There are steps you can take to help yourself or your loved ones live with dignity at any age. Below you’ll find our tips for how to make independent living safer for seniors. When you’re making your plan, don’t forget about the importance of mental health care. If you or a senior you know are struggling, especially those experiencing prolonged isolation, consider speaking with a JFS mental health professional. In Greater New Orleans, call (504) 831-8475 or email jfs@jfsneworleans.org.

Five Ways to Preserve Senior Independence There are some key areas in which you can encourage senior independence, lower fall risks, and maintain a senior’s ability to remain independent and safe in their own homes.

Understanding cost of care: Step back and look at your present situation, now for just a moment, reflect on the change a health issue or injury could present. Will these new needs require additional help in the home?

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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senior life

Join WYES Today! wyes.org/passport

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

At the member level of $60 or higher, receive extended access to an on-demand library of PBS programming, including current and past seasons of PBS shows, plus local documentaries and cooking shows pproduced by WYES.

Temporary placement for rehabilitation? Assisted Living? Or Long Term Care solutions? Each option presents different financial burdens, and having prior knowledge of insurance benefits, policies, and cost of services in your area is your best protection.

Support Physical Health: Declining physical health has a great impact on maintaining a senior’s desire for independent living. Identifying health issues early may offer the chance for treatments, therapy, and diet changes to improve their lifestyle. All seniors should have regular MD visits, for new-onset symptoms or chronic illnesses.

Many communities offer Health Screening Fairs; these are particularly helpful for those with diabetes, heart disease, pulmonary issues, or issues with blood pressure. Both health care prevention and management are equally important.

Mental and Cognitive Health: Seniors often hide or deny changes related to alertness for fear it will interrupt their current independent living situation. Caregivers, relatives, and friends should take note when a senior suddenly exhibits anxiety with everyday events or activities. Mood changes and depression may also be a sign that some cognitive changes are happening. Studies show changes in mental alertness may cause them to isolate themselves and communicate less frequently. This withdrawal may cause new health care concerns to go undetected. Do not assume that all behavior changes are related to a mental decline, medications improperly dispensed or missed doses could be at the root of some of these issues.

Home Safety — Risks and Preventions: Their goal is independent living in their home. The conditions in the home may require a few small changes to improve safety and prevent injuries from occurring. Have an open conversation to identify any safety concerns that are present, and explain some options for a better environment. If the goal furthers independence, then resistance may be minimal. Cluttered areas, loose rugs, extension cords, and poor lighting increase the risk for falls. Bathroom safety features such as ramps, grab bars, slip-proof adhesives, etc. can easily be obtained and installed.

Personal Medical Alert System: Installing a Lifeline Medical Alert System can offer an extra layer of protection for the senior living alone.

This system provides 24/7 access to assistance for any emergency. A personal help button will send a signal to connect with a monitoring center that will summon help on your behalf. The Lifeline system provides many features, fall detection, GPS mobile, or in-home service.

Independent living with peace of mind, legal and financial matters, who to trust, and how to make transitions: JFS’s Senior Services staff can assist with all of these. If you’re ready to make a plan, get in touch. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you as you make this journey with elderly family members. Call (504) 831-8475 or email jfs@jfsneworleans.org.

Kim Nonenmacher is Senior Services Manager at Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans.

senior life

Right at Home provides care and education Right at Home launched as a non-medical senior home care provider, and a few years ago, added skilled nursing.

Green said they are happy to provide education and advice to patients as well as their families.

“Early on, we can consider whether the patient’s home will continue to meet their needs as those needs change,” he said. “Together we can evaluate the safety and accessibility of the home and determine if modifications could help.”

While it is sometimes best to move to a skilled nursing facility or other supportive living environment, most patients prefer to receive care in their own homes. “The ‘house call’ has been making a comeback, most notably among older patients,” said Green. “In-home care agencies can provide skilled nursing services and referrals for medical equipment.”

Nonmedical in-home caregivers assist with personal care, such as bathing and dressing. They can grocery shop; prepare nutritious meals, provide transportation; help coordinate doctor appointments and provide health care reminders.

“Professional in-home care also supports the well-being of family,” said Green. “These services allow them to spend more time focusing on their relationship and things that are meaningful in life.”

Right at Home employs skilled, licensed, trained caregivers and software to help match them with those they are providing care for based on geography, level of care needed as well as other factors. They are also seeking to hire more qualified caregivers.

“Of course, the human element is always in the equation,” said Green.

“It is our hope that our caregivers and our seniors become friends.”

By Lee J. Green Right at Home not only provides in-home care for seniors in Birmingham, Huntsville and Tuscaloosa, but they also educate patients and their family about benefits as well as how in-home care might best fit their needs.

Last year, Right at Home launched a new website devoted to understanding and getting as much benefit as possible from one’s long-term care insurance.

The new website — www.rahllc.com — complements the company’s main website www.rightathome.net and provides helpful education about long-term insurance. They will also offer a free policy review and assessment.

“We can look at their policies and let them know what they have to work with. It some cases we’ve helped them get more reimbursement than they thought they could get,” said Right at Home Co-Owner Beau Green. “We’re in the business of care and we have a great deal of experience working with long term health care insurance. We’ve found that many people don’t use all of the benefits they are entitled to.”

Beau and his wife, Rachel, started Right at Home senior care after experiencing first-hand the impact home care can have on family.

“We both have had family members who have suffered from memory loss and we understand how difficult it can be on the whole family,” said Beau Green, who opened Right at Home 2011 in Birmingham. They also have offices in Huntsville, Decatur and Tuscaloosa. “But through all of this we gained an appreciation of the rewards excellent home care can bring to a family,” he said.

For Manny,

MENDING HIS

HEART

was a very sensitive issue.

Manny was born with a congenital heart defect requiring several surgeries, which is fairly common. What’s unique is that Manny has sensory sensitivities that can cause stress, anxiety and overwhelming feelings. Through Children’s of Alabama’s Sensory Pathway, Manny’s Child Life Specialist, Noelle, was able to help him cope with the stress and scary feelings about his surgery. She was with him every step of the way, making the experience less stressful for him.

Manny Tetralogy of Fallot Patient

To learn more visit ChildrensAL.org/heart

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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senior life

Town Village adjusts to keep residents safe, connected

By Lee J. Green

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Tickets and Sponsorship Information at Gatesfest.org 38

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

The Town Village senior living facility in Vestavia has always been about community and keeping seniors active.

Through modifications, an enhanced focus on technology learning and Covid-19 precautions, Town Village continued to keep that community strong.

“We made some adjustments so that we could keep everyone safe, active and connected,” said Town Village Marketing Director Desiree Soriano. “We worked with the guidelines and made a big commitment as a community. We’ve learned a lot and I know there are some things that we’ll continue to do” after the pandemic is over.

Soriano said the staff developed some entertaining social programming and exercise classes via Zoom. They also had a lot of one-on-one sessions with residents to teach them how to use video conferencing technology to stay connected within the community and with their families.

“Before we might have gone with residents to a museum or the symphony” or brought in an entertainer, she said. “We were still able to do fitness classes, museum, zoo tours and other entertainment” via Zoom and other online communications.

She said they helped residents to learn about online grocery and meal delivery.

“We also did a lot of Face Time and Zoom tours with prospective residents and their families” who couldn’t make it to the community for an in-person tour,” said Soriano, adding that they have had vaccines and tests available for current as well as prospective residents.

Town Village kept its award-winning dining offerings, with some adjustments for safety and slightly modified hours.

They also purchased some large partitions and utilized social distancing in their spacious ballroom upstairs for some live social events.

“We still have regular movie screenings, but we would add screenings to keep a limited capacity,” said Soriano.

The community also enhanced its commitment to cleanliness and Covid safety awareness.

Soriano said Town Village’s resident referral program was strong in 2021 and the residents gave the community very high marks on its satisfaction survey.

“We’re all in this together. Our residents have been very receptive and mindful to the changes, and we can’t say enough about the dedication of our staff,” she said.

senior life

Overcoming the Reluctance Tips to Help Aging Parents and Loved Ones Accept Your Help

By Rachel Palmer The scenario of an aging loved one struggling to remain independent and “not become a burden” is all too familiar. While understandable, the drive for independence can result in a common and difficult problem — aging parents resisting the help they need. However, research has shown that the best strategy to get your loved ones to accept help is to emphasize that it can actually help to extend their independence.

Aging in place is the newer concept of assisting seniors with remaining in their homes, and/or higher level retirement communities, with as much of their independence as possible, for as long as possible- and in some cases, forever. This is done largely by putting a variety of supports in place; this can include items like supportive devices — an emergency alert button, bathroom grab bars, bed rails, etc.; working with a physician to get home health established, especially if a loved one has had a recent fall or medical change; and hiring private caregivers for help with things ranging from activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, toileting, to running to the grocery store/pharmacy/beauty salon/doctor, to accompanying them to lunch with a friend.

Some common examples of assistance that seniors resist the most are: decisions about whether to continue driving, getting needed home health care, and getting assistance with household chores like cooking, shopping and cleaning.

Top tips to help overcome aging loved ones’ resistance to needed help: • Determine which family members should participate in the conversation with your parents/loved ones; we don’t want our loved ones to feel overwhelmed or ganged up on.

• If a parent/loved one has dementia, it may be best to consult with their physician for some specific recommendations on how to handle a conversation.

• Emphasize that accepting help can maintain their self-sufficiency and allow them to continue to live independently.

• Acknowledge their fears and concerns, and discuss what might ease their minds.

• Be sure to start slowly with caregiving and other professionals entering the home — even if you know that they need many hours of help; Prepare caregivers and any healthcare professionals with your loved ones’ likes and dislikes and for possible resistance.

• Assure your loved ones that nothing is set in stone. They are free to have a “trial period” and give feedback after meeting new caregivers/ providers.

• Remember that caregivers and home health providers are not “one size fits all”; sometimes it requires more than one person to find that perfect fit.

• Maintain firm boundaries; your loved one will likely continually try to change your mind and show you why they do not need assistance.

It’s important to remain steadfast and remember your reasons as to why some intervention is necessary.

Using these practical strategies with loved ones needing assistance may help your family to reach an agreement on helping them to remain independent, and aging in place, with appropriate support.

Rachel Palmer, LMSW, is Business Development Coordinator for Home Care Solutions in New Orleans.

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SJL Online: sjlmag.com February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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senior life

counselor’s corner a monthly feature from Collat Jewish Family Services

How to Manage the Stress of Caregiving Caring for an older adult can have many rewards. But it’s a role that can have a significant impact on quality of life, and caregiver burnout, sadly, is all too common.

Family members who are actively caring for an older adult often don’t even self-identify as caregivers, making it highly unlikely that they will receive the support they need.

Family members are at a higher risk of caregiver burnout when they are: • Forced into the caregiver role • Living with the person they are caring for • Socially Isolated • Facing financial difficulties • Providing constant care without respite • Lacking support and resources If you are a caregiver, you may be so focused on your loved one that you don’t realize that your own health and well-being are suffering. Watch for these signs of caregiver stress: • Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried • Feeling tired often, even if you are sleeping too much or too little • Becoming easily irritated or angry • Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy • Feeling sad • Suffering from pain or other physical problems The demands of caregiving can create stress for even the most resilient person. That’s why it’s so important to get enough support. Remember, if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to care for anyone else.

To help manage caregiver stress: Ask for help. Be prepared to ask specifically for what you need help with. Examples may include help with meals or time spent with your loved one so that you may run errands or rest.

Recognize and accept your own limitations. It is okay to set boundaries and to seek help when your loved one’s condition has progressed beyond your ability to care for them alone.

Join a support group. People in support groups understand what you may be going through and can help validate your feelings. Members of the group can teach you skills in how to deal with difficult situations, and they can link you with valuable resources.

Seek social support. Make an effort to stay well-connected with family and friends — and let them know if you need to see or hear from them more often.

Practice self-care and keep up with your routine medical appointments. For example, set goals to establish a good sleep routine, find time to be physically active on most days of the week, eat healthy food, and drink lots of water. Get recommended vaccinations and screenings. Share with your doctor that you are providing care for your loved one and the possible strain it has placed on your own health.

Seek respite care for your loved one, which will provide you with much-needed breaks. Options in your community may include: In-home respite. Health care attendants come to your home to provide companionship, assistance with bathing, preparing meals, or assisting with medical needs.

Adult respite programs. These day programs allow your loved one an opportunity to socialize, participate in stimulating activities and participate in exercise.

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

senior life

Short-term nursing homes. Some assisted living homes, memory care facilities and nursing homes accept people needing care for short stays while caregivers are traveling or seeking a break.

Pam Leonard, LBSW, CDP, is program director of the CJFS CARES respite program, which provides four hours per day of cognitive, social and physical engagement for those affected by dementia and related disorders.

Pam is also a facilitator of CJFS’ virtual caregiver support group. To learn more about CARES and caregiver support, contact pam@cjfsbham.org.

Care NOLA provides support when conditions are at their most confusing In this day and age, navigating the intricacies of family and senior care can be a daunting task for families who often find themselves in need of quick and efficient solutions to their individualized concerns. With this in mind, Care NOLA can be a valuable resource to families during this difficult journey.

Rachel Lazarus Eriksen, LCSW-BACS, Care NOLA founder and CEO, is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and an Aging Life Care Professional.

She graduated from the Tulane University School of Social Work in 2007 and has been working with seniors, adults with disabilities, and their families in various capacities throughout her career as a social worker.

She has worked in both the hospital setting and community-based settings, helping seniors and their families navigate their options in real time, as their needs evolve.

The sole focus of Care NOLA is to assist clients and families with making the best, informed decisions possible when arranging for the care of their loved ones. Their goal is to save families money and time, while also lowering stress, ultimately allowing for more quality time together.

Care NOLA accomplished these goals by helping families navigate their options as their needs evolve, by conducting detailed assessments and offering specialized recommendations for care based on the needs of each individual and family.

Some areas where Care NOLA provides assistance are: • Guiding families through difficult conversations and assisting with those conversations • Acting as liaison to families at a distance who need a trusted local professional • Planning and problem-solving • Offering comprehensive assessments, including ADLs and safety concerns • Education and advocacy • Accompanying clients to healthcare or legal appointments • Providing recommendations on Home-Based Services vs. Residential Care Options (pros and cons, affordability, available options, etc.)

• Reviewing the roles of Medicare, Medicaid, and Long-Term Care Insurance • Completing applications for Medicaid and Social Security • Assisting with nursing home and assisted living transition and placement • Coordinating ongoing care

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culture “The Snowy Day” changed children’s lit Meridian exhibit shows how Jewish author pioneered diversity through his books

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

In 1962, Ezra Jack Keats authored a children’s book with a main character who “should have been there all along.”

Written in the midst of the Civil Rights movement, “The Snowy Day” became the first children’s picture book to feature a Black main character.

The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience in downtown Meridian celebrates Keats and the diverse characters he brought to life in its newest exhibition, “Drawn inside the Margins: The Diverse World of Ezra Jack Keats.” The exhibition runs from Feb. 5 to April 16.

Considered the grandfather of diversity in children’s literature, Keats came from humble beginnings. The son of Polish Jewish immigrants, he came of age in Brooklyn, N.Y., during the Great Depression. He showed a talent for art at an early age, and one of his most prized possessions was a medal for drawing that was presented to him when he graduated from junior high school.

At Thomas Jefferson High School, he won a national student contest run by the Scholastic Publishing Company for his painting of a few hobos warming themselves around a fire. His father worried that he would not be able to make a decent living doing art, but Keats discovered, after his father died the day before his high school graduation, that he kept newspaper clippings of his art awards in his wallet.

Keats became an artist with the Works Progress Administration and did backgrounds for Captain Marvel. In 1943 he joined the Army and designed camouflage patterns. Due to antisemitism, he changed his name from Katz to Keats, and became a commercial artist.

He studied painting in Paris and did many works in the fine arts, then returned to New York to work as a commercial artist. An editor at Crowell Publishing saw one of his book covers in a store window in 1954 and brought him in to the world of children’s book illustrating, which he had not considered.

In 1960 he tried doing his own children’s book, “My Dog is Lost!” featuring a Spanish-speaking child from Puerto Rico who had just moved to New York. That started a pattern of centering his books on minority children and often doing bi-lingual books.

He said “The Snowy Day” turned his life around. “None of the manuscripts I’d been illustrating featured any black kids — except for token blacks in the background,” he explained. He was inspired by a series of photos he had clipped from a 1940 issue of Life, where a Black boy was about to get a blood test. “This was the child who would be the hero of

culture my book.”

The book won the Caldecott Medal, and he went on to do about 20 more children’s books, including some that followed the main character from “The Snowy Day” through adolescence.

Keats died in 1983 after suffering a major heart attack, having written and illustrated 22 picture book classics, illustrating over 85 books authored by others.

The Library of Congress counts “The Snowy Day” as a book that has shaped America and is the most checked-out book in the 125 year history of the New York Public Library.

The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation supports public schools and libraries around the country. They also present the EJK Book Award, which is judged each year in New Orleans and presented in Hattiesburg each April as part of the Fay B. Kaigler Children’s Book Festival.

Keats’ original artwork is part of the Keats Archive at the de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection, one of the Special Collections at the University of Southern Mississippi. The collection in Hattiesburg also houses the works of Jewish authors H.A. and Margret Rey, creators of the “Curious George” series.

The exhibit contains over 35 of Keats’ works. Laura Hester, director of communications for The MAX, said they wanted to highlight the back story of Keats’ important books.

This exhibition focuses on the books Keats authored and illustrated, and more specifically the books that feature diversity. “The beauty of Keats’ illustrations lies not only in the symbolic message but also in his technique,” said Stacey Wilson, Curator of Exhibitions at The MAX. “I never realized the illustrations were collages, and to see them in person – they are amazing.”

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While the Montclair Run at Birmingham’s Levite Jewish Community Center has been a tradition for over 40 years, for the last 12 it has been named in memory of Sam Lapidus, and raises funds to benefit the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders.

Last month, the LJCC presented a check for over $10,000 from the 2021 run, bringing the 12-year total from the run and Mesch AZA’s Jam4Sam concerts to over $100,000. The check was accepted from Katie Hausman Grace (center) by Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Meredith Weintraub (left), who is an LJCC member, and Children’s Community Development Coordinator Kelly Markert (right).

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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community A celebration from the past as NCJW New Orleans holding Angel Ball salute April event celebrates Section’s 125th anniversary

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February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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The National Council of Jewish Women’s Greater New Orleans Section is celebrating its 125th anniversary by reviving a piece of its history.

“Looking Back and Leading Forward with a Salute to Angel Ball” will be on April 9 at the Higgins Hotel.

A patron’s party will begin at 6 p.m., with a signature drink. Dinner and dancing to the music of the Wise Guys will follow at 7 p.m.

In 1954, Section President Dorothy Betty Levy first conceived of the need to raise money through a Thrift Shop and a biennial special fundraising event to support community services.

That year, 100 women in the Bundle Brigade spent a day calling on 1,000 NCJW members at their homes to collect bundles of clothes for the Thrift Shop.

When the concept of a Charity Ball fundraiser was first presented to the board, the leadership hit some serious snags, as reported by Barbara Edison in her book “The Angel Ball – 20 years of History.” The argument was that “New Orleans will never go for a Charity Ball — we have too many Carnival Balls and none of our men like to dance, so no one will come to a ball.”

The first ‘Ball Committee’ worked long and hard on Ball policies in an attempt to address all of the fears and objections. A Men’s Advisory Committee was also formed to get their ideas, educate them on the valuable programs supported by NCJW and to interest them in attending the Ball.

“The men proved to be very helpful,” Edison said. “We had a men’s party with the men writing and producing a clever skit.”

The first Angel Ball was finally presented in 1961 and was chaired by NCJW Past President Phyllis Dennery, and Honorary Chairperson Mrs. Edgar Stern.

The name “Angel Ball” was used by the New York NCJW Section, based on the name that had been given to generous individuals who backed or promoted Broadway plays. Using this title, New Orleans hoped to define their social event and distinguish it from the Christian social aura of Comus Balls.

The first Ball was oversold. More than 1,500 people attended. If members contributed a certain amount of clothing to the Thrift Shop, their tickets would be free.

According to Edison, “it would have been easy to balance the budget on a free basis had not our members demanded food with dancing.” So, she successfully found underwriters for the event including New York national advertisers representing Benson and Hedges, Chivas Regal and Miss Sun Beam.

Later, donating to the Thrift Shop and becoming an Angel gave the members the right to purchase a pair of tickets for the Ball. This actually increased the popularity for the Ball as well as donations to the Shop.

According to the ‘Council’s’ earliest leaders the Angel Ball “provided a number of important benefits to the section including a united budget, a well-informed membership and more volunteers free to work in social action and community services.”

The Angel Balls ran until 1995, and then in 2000 and 2002.

Tickets are available on the NCJW New Orleans website. Patron tickets start at $250. General tickets are $125, or $80 for ages 36 and under.

(In the March issue of Southern Jewish Life: A 125-year legacy)

community Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival rescheduled to March

Madly In Love Bouquet with Red Roses

After postponing from January due to the Omicron surge, the Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival announced new dates for March.

“A Crime on the Bayou,” the story of Gary Duncan, a Black teen from Plaquemines Parish, and Jewish attorney Richard Sobol, who leaves a prestigious Washington law firm and volunteers in New Orleans, taking on a frivolous case against Duncan, will screen on March 9 at 7 p.m.

“Honeymood” will be on March 12 at 7 p.m., and on March 13 there will be a double feature, with “Born in Auschwitz” at 1 p.m. and “The Light Ahead” at 3:30 p.m.

For those who had already purchased tickets to the January screenings, the tickets have been automatically transferred to the new dates. Those who want an email with the updated information, or who can not attend on the new dates, should contact the Manship Theatre ticket office.

The VIP Movie Club is still available, with free tickets to opening night until the show sells out, and $2 off the other screenings.

>> Interfaith

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richment and middle school English teacher. In 2016 she founded Project Peaceful Warriors, a non-profit which supports healing-centered learning spaces in New Orleans through trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness.

As founding director, she grew the organization to serve over 30 schools and community-based organizations, reaching over 15,000 young people and 5,000 educators in the Greater New Orleans area.

During this time, she collaborated with the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine to measure program impact, and her work was published in the Journal of Psychology Research and Behavior Management.

Hylton is a graduate of the Jewish Federation’s Katz-Phillips Leadership Development class of 2019-2021, during which she built strong and lasting connections to the New Orleans Jewish community. Her community involvement also includes facilitating postpartum support groups with The Fourth Trimester and Beyond, an initiative of Tulane’s Psychiatry Clinic. She is currently in the process of completing her Healthy Birth Ambassador training through Healthy Birth Louisiana, a lasting innovative, culturally-specific intervention to reduce poor birth outcomes in the state of Louisiana and beyond.

“I look forward to getting started with outreach, building and co-creating guiding resources and opportunities that reach across generations to deepen individual and family connection to Jewish life, and in turn building a stronger community together,” Hylton said.

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continued from page 46

catching it leaves him susceptible to turning the ball over. Players could be torn between their obligation to not let their kippah hit the ground and their obligation to their teammates, who they should do unto as they’d want done unto them. Believe it or not, there’s no definitive rabbinic ruling on this anywhere in the NCAA rulebook.

Lastly, if two kippahs land on the court at the same time, the players must ensure they get the correct kippah back, hearkening to the biblical verse, “am I my brother’s kippah?”

Doug Brook hit the game-winning jump shot in a 3-on-3 tournament at Kibbutz Hanaton during USY Pilgrimage. He then retired. For almost several more laughs, listen to the five-star rated Rear Pew Mirror podcast at anchor.fm/rearpewmirror or on any major podcast platform. For exclusive online content, follow facebook.com/rearpewmirror. For past columns, visit http://rearpewmirror.com/.

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life 45

rear pew mirror • doug brook

Hooping Cough This winter, the Yeshiva University men’s basketball team stomped on every joke about famous Jewish sports legends by ranking number one in the nation in Division III hoops.

The Maccabees held the top spot for the entire month of December, until a home loss on Erev New Year’s Eve ended their historic winning streak at 50 games. It was their first loss in over two years, but perhaps it was destiny.

After the 49 days of the Omer, the 50th day is Shavuot – the major festival celebrating the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai (not the hospital). Also, the biblical jubilee year is every 50 years – the last one being 2017-18, the first time YU ever made it into March Madness.

No, they don’t play on Shabbat. Yes, most players wear kippahs on their heads throughout every game – kippahs with a pair of clips built into the inside. Yes, there’s an official kippah provider for the team, because of course there is.

Not to doubt the quality of that provider’s wearable wares, but this begs the question of what happens when a player’s kippah falls off during game action.

After all, referees stop play when they think there’s a drop of moisture on the floor. What perils might await from an actual object such as a kippah on the floor? Not only how it might harm the players physically, but spiritually.

Instead of researching the answer, it’s far more Talmudic (and sillier) to consider and debate the possibilities. At length. Though it’s far more magazine-columnic to do it in 700 words, so this is an abridgement.

Remember, a kippah is worn on the head at all times. If a kippah falls on the ground, one traditionally kisses it and puts it back on. But if a kippah falls in the woods and nobody hears it, did they really have a minyan?

So, first, what does a player do when his kippah comes off? Stop playing, keep playing, come out of the game, bench tachanun (short or long), etc.

The permutations are vast, but column space isn’t, so presume that Beit once again defeated Beit Shammai, March Madness Hillel resulting in referees always stopping play is less complex the instant any kippah ever flew the kop.

Second, what about the circumstances? than basketball If a kippah is knocked off by an opposing player, regardless of the number of team in the Talmud fouls, it results in a free throw. If it is intentionally knocked off, it’s treated as an intentional foul resulting in two shots. These kippah shots are in addition to any free throws if a normal basketball foul is called. Also, if an opposing player does it intentionally twice in a game, he is ejected and subject to a stern tweet by the Anti-Defamation League.

If a kippah is knocked off by a teammate, it’s partially treated as a technical foul. The opposing team gets a free throw, for play being forced to stop, but it isn’t counted as a team or personal foul. Possession returns to whichever team had the ball when the yarmulke was yanked.

If a kippah is intentionally knocked off by a teammate, the tzuris in that locker room is punishment enough for such a batted beanie. And if a player steps on a fallen kippah? The only thing worse is if a player steps on a kippah while still on someone’s head.

If a player’s kippah is knocked off but the player catches it midair and restores it, no foul is called unless it is deemed intentional. However, this action is often distracting to the player which could impact their play.

For example, if a player is dribbling and his kippah starts to come off, continued on previous page 46

February 2022 • Southern Jewish Life

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