Sam’s Fund, a foundation established by Sam Ebersman’s parents, recently made a generous contribution of $500,000 to ZABS Place to provide training for candidates in its job training and job placement program. The fund’s purpose is to honor Sam by helping young adults with developmental challenges build lives with purpose and meaning.
Sam's Fund was created to honor Sam Ebersman, a kind and caring young man with an infectious appetite for life and a strong desire to connect with others. Sam's Fund helps young adults with developmental challenges find social support and learn the job skills they need to become thriving members of society, honoring Sam by helping them build lives with purpose and meaning.
ZABS Place, established more than 10 years ago in downtown Matthews, North Carolina, is more than just a nonprofit thrift boutique — it's a transformative stepping stone for young adults with special talents. The organization's mission centers on helping individuals with disabilities identify their unique abilities and develop practical skills that enable them to become contributing members of the community. Through personalized training and support, ZABS Place has successfully helped hundreds of young adults discover and pursue their career dreams.
The creation of the Sam Ebersman Talent Accelerator Program comes at a critical time. In North Carolina, an alarming 80.7% of individuals with disabilities are currently unemployed. This challenging statistic is particularly pronounced for those with intellectual or developmental differences, who often face multiple barriers to employment. These barriers include limited job opportunities that match their skills and interests, misconceptions about their abilities, and workplace environments that may not accommodate their needs.
The Talent Accelerator Program aims to address these challenges head-on. With the
$500,000 donation, ZABS Place is expanding its capacity by hiring a director of training and em-
ployment and adding more job coaches to its team. This expansion will enable the organization to train up to 100 young adults annually – significantly increasing their ability to serve the community. The program will focus on breaking the "catch-22" that many individuals with disabilities face: the difficulty of gaining work experience without prior job experience.
What sets ZABS Place apart is its commitment to matching individuals with roles that align with their talents and interests, rather than simply placing them in available positions. The organization works closely with a network of local businesses dedicated to helping ZABS participants develop their special talents and advance their careers. This approach has proven successful in creating lasting employment opportunities that benefit both
individuals and their employers.
In the time ZABS Place has been in operation, it has provided training for hundreds of young people. The Sam Ebersman Talent Accelerator Program will provide support and opportunity to hundreds more in the years to come. ZABS is extraordinarily grateful to the Ebersman family and everyone who contributed to Sam's Fund.
ZABS Place is a project of Chabad of Charlotte and a beneficiary organization of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte.
The Jewish Community Relations Council Leads
By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist
Against the backdrop of rising antisemitism, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte (JFGC) is ensuring that knowledge and advocacy become our greatest defense. The fight against antisemitism is not just about reacting to hate, but equipping the community with the tools needed to challenge and dismantle it. Through education, legislative advocacy, security initiatives, and interfaith outreach, the JCRC is working tirelessly on multiple fronts to ensure that our Jewish community remains empowered.
One of the most pressing concerns in the Jewish community today is security. In January, the JCRC reinforced community safety efforts by hosting two
national experts on antisemitism and security: Meredith Weisel, regional director for the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), and Stuart Frisch from the Secure Community Network (SCN). During their visit, Weisel and Frisch engaged in discus-
sions with local law enforcement officials, the FBI, and the Department of Justice to examine evolving threats of antisemitism. These conversations provided an opportunity to bring forward the
Sam Ebersman
JFGC Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) director, Douglas Greene (top right). and chair of JCRC State Legislative Efforts, Eric Laxer (middle right) at the North Carolina House of Representatives General Assembly.
Editor’s Corner
Words of My Mouth, Meditations of My Heart
Once a month I am crippled with anxiety. No, it’s not when the bills are due. No, it’s not my turn to host book club. No, it’s not any of those predictable monthly occurrences that might naturally trigger stress. It’s the time when I sit down to write this column. Not only do I have the usual trepidation looking at a blank page, but there’s an insecurity that rises up in me.
What could I possibly have to say that people would want to read? Who am I, sitting here in my office with my coffee and my doubts, to think my personal reflections matter in a world full of expert opinions and profound philosophical discourse? And if you’ve read my column, you know I tend to be a bit revealing and personal at times. I’ve tried
to write some other way — but I can’t seem to do it.
But then I think about the feedback I get — which I get often. Sure, there are the occasional messages of displeasure at my perspective, and I appreciate that feedback. But the most common message I receive is “thank you.”
And what I’ve come to notice is that it’s not “thank you for sharing that life-altering perspective” or “thank you for sharing your particular wisdom.” I am rarely saying anything new or imparting any particular insights. What readers say is “you gave voice to what I was thinking, feeling, experiencing.” Mostly I hear, “that really resonated with me.”
Resonance. The word itself seems to hum with meaning. In physics, it describes when one vibrating system amplifies another that shares its natural frequency. Think of a tuning fork — strike it, and a nearby fork of the same pitch will begin to sing in sympathy. Strike a note on a piano, and the strings of nearby instruments might quietly hum in response. Think about an orchestra tuning up before a performance. When the oboist plays the first A, every string and wind instrument in the hall responds to that note, each adding its own timbre to create something larger
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than any single instrument could produce. Our community works the same way — one person’s story, honestly told, can awaken similar stories in others, creating a chorus of shared experience.
Our words work like those instruments, finding and amplifying what’s already there in others. This understanding has transformed not only how I view my role as a writer, but also how I communicate the rest of the month. When our words resonate with another, they amplify what that person already holds within them. We all have within us moments of and a belief in hope, gratitude, and goodness. So when our words align with those qualities, they amplify that part of ourselves. But we also all carry anger, resentment, and fear. Those too can resonate and amplify when met with matching frequencies in others’ hearts. I remember a particular morning when I arrived at work carrying the weight of world events. A colleague greeted me with a genuine smile and shared a small story of kindness she’d witnessed on her way in. It wasn’t earth-shattering news, but it resonated with my own need for hope that day. By the time I reached my office, I found myself sharing a similar story with someone else. The ripple
effect was tangible - one person’s choice to amplify goodness had changed the frequency of our entire office that morning.
I think about other times I’ve been around friends who were griping about the current state of politics or even the weather. Perhaps I shared their anxiety about where we are politically, or maybe I too was feeling blue from the cloudy day. Did I walk away from that conversation feeling uplifted or did it drag me down? And did I carry that resonance with me into my next encounter?
I am not suggesting we adopt some sort of false positivity or bury our authentic feelings beneath a forced smile. There is real value in sharing our burdens, in having our struggles witnessed by others who understand. But too often, we use complaint as an easy shorthand for connection — a lazy way to find common ground. We can honor our true experiences while still being conscious of our words and their ripple effects. When we reach for connection, we have choices about which frequencies we amplify.
Long before I was giving resonance any thought, I had a practice of stopping outside the door before walking in the room of any meeting or social occasion
to recite quietly to myself the ancient words:
Y’hiyu l’ratzon imrei fi v’hegyon libi l’fanecha, Adonai tzuri v’go’ali — May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Our sages taught that this prayer, which concludes our Amidah and appears in Psalm 19, reminds us of the sacred responsibility we carry in our speech. Perhaps they understood that our words don’t merely express our thoughts — they resonate and amplify within our community, creating ripples that extend far beyond our immediate conversation. I’m reminded to re-incorporate that prayer into my daily routine.
So now, as I face my monthly appointment with the blank page, I’m learning to replace anxiety with awareness. My role isn’t to create wisdom from nothing — it’s to send out words that will find their matching frequencies in others’ hearts. And in doing so, I choose carefully which vibrations I want to amplify. Because in this resonant chamber we call community, I’d rather my words sing in harmony with hope than clash with fear.
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte Kicks Off 2025 Annual Campaign With Super Event
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Super Event co-chairs, Rachel Putterman Friedman and Lisa Strause Levinson
Rachel Putterman Friedman, Eylon Levy, and Lisa Strause Levinson
Super Event 2025 full house at Temple Israel
New Beginnings: Adam Kolett’s Leadership as Federation CEO and the Road Ahead
By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist
Since arriving in Charlotte, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s (JFGC) new chief executive officer, Adam Kolett, and his family have enthusiastically embraced their new home. Now, as he nears six months in his role, Adam reflects on the journey so far, his vision for the future, and the role Federation will play in strengthening Jewish life locally and globally.
Having relocated from South Florida, the Kolett family has quickly fallen in love with Charlotte —not just for its vibrant Jewish community but also for its welcoming spirit and rich quality of life. “My family has truly enjoyed our time in Charlotte,” Adam shares. “We’ve embraced the natural beauty of the area — exploring the trails, hiking, and experiencing the changing seasons. At the same time, we have found a second home at Shalom Park and among the many Jewish organizations beyond it. We spend much of our free time at the Levine Jewish Community Center (LJCC) and my younger children are thriving at Charlotte Jewish Day School. We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that has welcomed us so wholeheartedly.”
Adam stepped into his role as CEO of JFGC with an impressive background in Jewish communal leadership. In Florida, he served as executive director of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach and, previously, as director of the North Dade Branch of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation. Now, he brings his passion, experience, and strategic vision to Jewish Charlotte at a moment of tremendous opportunity.
Reflecting on his transition, Adam expresses deep gratitude for the people who make JFGC so effective. “I was struck by how seamless and energizing this transition has been. I walked into an organization powered by dedicated professionals and lay leaders who are passionate, ready to innovate, and take our work to the next level. One of the most surprising aspects of Federation is just how much we accomplish. The breadth and depth of our impact on individuals, families, and the broader community is truly remarkable.”
Beyond Federation’s achievements, Adam has been inspired by the unique structure of Jewish Charlotte. “Shalom Park is an extraordinary model,” he notes. “Having so many of our community’s organizations, schools, and agencies in one central location fosters a rare and invaluable sense of interconnectedness. This collaborative spirit strengthens our relationships, amplifies our impact, and makes it easier for individuals and families to engage with Jewish life in meaningful ways.”
As Charlotte experiences rapid growth, Adam sees an opportunity and a responsibility to
ensure that Jewish life flourishes alongside it. “Charlotte’s population has more than doubled since our last community study in 2012, and our Jewish community has grown along with it. But growth alone isn’t enough; we must be intentional about deepening engagement, fostering connections, and ensuring that every Jewish individual and family feels a sense of belonging.” Adam says. “I want to see more people involved than ever before, through Federation, our beneficiary agencies, synagogues, and cultural programs. This is an extraordinary place to live, and my hope is that people not only take pride in our community but choose to put down roots here, raising their families and building our collective future.”
A lifelong advocate for strengthening the global Jewish people, Adam is also committed to deepening Charlotte’s connection to Israel. “Our bond with Israel is at the heart of who we are as a Jewish community,” he says. “It’s not just about financial support. It’s about relationships, shared experiences, and a mutual sense of responsibility. Like any deep and meaningful bond, our connection with Israel requires engagement, dialogue, and sometimes even wrestling with difficult questions. However, that engagement is a sign of commitment, not distance. Through Federation, we have the opportunity to strengthen that connection in powerful ways: by supporting Israeli communities, facilitating immersive Israel experiences, and standing in solidarity in times of crisis. My vision is for every member of our community to feel that link to Israel in a real and personal way — one that is rooted in love, but also in a shared responsibility to build a stronger future together.”
With Adam at the helm, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte is poised for an exciting and transformative future. His leadership, passion, and deep commitment to fostering relationships will be instrumental in ensuring that Federation not only continues its mission but expands its reach locally, in Israel, and around the world. As he continues to engage with community members, schools, synagogues, and partner agencies, Adam remains focused on building upon Federation’s strong foundation to create an even more vibrant, connected, and thriving Jewish Charlotte.
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Adam Kolett
JFGC CEO, Adam Kolett, and Eylon Levy at 2025 Super Event
Sue’s Bookshelf
By Sue Littauer
“On Being Jewish Now: Reflections from Authors and Advocates” edited by Zibby Owens
For the February issue of the Charlotte Jewish News, I wrote about the anti-Zionist movement in the publishing industry. I fo-
cused on the ways we could help combat this movement, one of which was to order “On Being Jewish Now,” an anthology of 75 personal essays written by Jewish artists and celebrities, edited
by Zibby Owens. The prompt for these essays was, “How it feels to be Jewish now,” and includes observations on how life has changed since October 7, 2023. All proceeds from the sale of these books go to support the nonprofit Artists Against Antisemitism.
When I started to read the book, I was eager to read those essays written by the authors familiar to me from the selection process for Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Center for Jewish Education Book Club: Brenda Janowitz, Bess Kalb, Caroline Leavitt, Corie Adjmi, Elyssa Friedland, Jamie Brenner, Jane L. Rosen, Jacqueline Friedland, Lisa Barr, Lynda Cohen Loigman, Noa Yedlin, Renee Rosen, Rochelle Weinstein, or others known to us such as Mark Feuerstein and Jill Zarin.
However, what I took from the book was something far different.
As I read the personal stories of the authors, my experiences as a student, teacher, parent,
daughter, Jewish professional, volunteer, and friend crowded my vision. I remembered asking the four questions at the schoolwide seder, singing in the junior choir at Temple B’rith Shalom, my confirmation at Temple Beth Ahabah, wishing for a box of 64 Crayola crayons for Chanukah, having to listen nightly to the 78 RPM record of Maoz Tzur (Rock of Ages) before opening any presents, taking on the presidencies of a Jewish sorority and a Jewish organization, and advocating for the excellence of a Jewish day school.
I learned from my experiences as a Judaica teacher, a Jewish fundraiser, and a frequent visitor to Israel. But true to my personality and generation, I never spoke out as comfortably as my children did about their Judaism when they responded, “I celebrate Chanukah,” to the clerks who wished them a Merry Christmas.
After October 7, I’ve tried to take stock of my own actions, but my number one source of
pride has been the paths of my children. My oldest daughter traveled to Israel on her own initiative on a women’s mission to Israel, and she has become involved in the Jewish community, serving as treasurer to two organizations. My middle daughter was awarded the Hebrew School Teacher of the Year by the Atlanta Jewish Federation. My son is serving in his 20th year as a Jewish professional. I see the sense of Jewish pride in my grandchildren as well and know our family will do its part in the preservation of Judaism.
For me, “On Being Jewish Now” is about family and doing our part to pass our traditions on to the next generation. It brings tears to my eyes, as my son, on many public occasions, has honored my late father’s tradition of speaking the words of the Shehechiyanu prayer.
L’dor v’dor.
“On Being Jewish Now” is available on Amazon or Zibbymedia.com
Jewish Community Relations Council
(Continued from front page)
concerns of local Jewish organizations, exchange insights on security challenges, and explore ways to strengthen local protective measures.
While in Charlotte, Weisel and Frisch also met with staff from JFGC and the Levine JCC, as well as community leaders in Lake Norman and Davidson. These discussions reinforced a critical point: security is not just about responding to threats — it’s about taking proactive mea-
sures to prevent them. Maintaining open lines of communication with law enforcement and ensuring vigilance within Jewish organizations are key components of the JCRC’s approach to fostering a safer community.
Education remains a crucial tool in the fight against antisemitism, and the JCRC is dedicated to increasing awareness of the challenges Jewish communities face. This year, the Council helped bring the documentary
“October H8te” to the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival. The film, which examines the alarming rise of antisemitic incidents, served as a stark reminder of how hate can spread when left unchecked. The most impactful moment of the screening, however, was during the panel discussion after the film.
Featuring Meredith Weisel, Emily Zimmern (co-chair of Outshine Hate), psychologist Dr. Barrie Morgenstein, and local high school senior Max Harr, the conversation delved into how antisemitism manifests in everyday life. For many audience members, the discussion was both eye-opening and deeply personal. Students spoke about the casual antisemitism they face in schools: comments made in hallways, ignorance from teachers, and the difficulty of speaking up without fear of backlash. Professionals shared their experiences with subtle but persistent discrimination in the workplace. The screening and discussion reaffirmed a key belief of the JCRC: raising awareness is just as important as direct advocacy. When people truly understand the impact of antisemitism, not just historically, but in real time, they are more likely to stand up against it.
Change often happens at the legislative level. That’s why the JCRC is committed to ensuring that Jewish voices are heard by
(Continued on page 5)
JCRC
(Continued from page 4)
lawmakers in North Carolina. This commitment was evident when Douglas Greene, JFGC’s Jewish community relations director, and Eric Laxer, chair of JCRC state legislative efforts, traveled to Raleigh to take part in North Carolina’s commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
Standing alongside other Jewish leaders, they witnessed a moment of historic significance as the newly elected Speaker of the NC House of Representatives, Destin Hall, and other state officials formally recognized the day. The ceremony highlighted the importance of Holocaust education. But for the JCRC, it was also a call to action. The JCRC continues to engage with state leaders to push for meaningful policies that address antisemitism and protect Jewish institutions. By forging these relationships and making Jewish concerns heard, the JCRC is helping to shape a future where antisemitism is actively challenged at the highest levels.
The fight against antisemitism is multifaceted, and the JCRC understands that no single approach
is enough, so the organization is working on multiple fronts to expand its impact. Among its efforts, the JCRC promotes Holocaust and antisemitism education in schools and partners with North Carolina Hillel to support Jewish students on campus, collaborates with businesses to combat workplace antisemitism, and fosters interfaith alliances to unite communities against hate. Their work is making a difference, but this fight cannot be won by a single individual or organization alone. It requires the collective action of an engaged and informed community. “The overwhelming support and engagement we’ve seen has been inspiring,” says Douglas Greene. “But this moment demands even more. We can’t afford to sit back — we need to take action.”
With the North Carolina General Assembly back in session, now is the time to reach out to state legislators, city council members, county commissioners, and school board representatives. They need to hear from the Jewish community about the issues that matter—from security funding to education policy.
JCRC
Center for Jewish Education Book Club Schedule
The CJE Book Club meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:30 am in Room A110 at Shalom Park. All books are available at the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library at the Center for Jewish Education.
Mar. 12
The Paris Novel, Ruth Reichl
Apr. 9
The Goddess of Warsaw, Lisa Barr
May 14
Behind Every Good Man, Sara Goodman Confino
Jun. 11
The Escape Artist, Jonathan Freedland
Jul. 9
Long Island Compromise, Taffy Brodesser-Akner
Aug. 13
Kantika, Elizabeth Graver
Sept. 10
The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern, Lynda Cohen Loigman
Oct. 29
The Rest of Our Lives, Judy Goldman
Nov. 12
Small World: A Novel, Laura Zigman
Dec. 10
Like Mother, Like Mother, Susan Rieger
*Zibby Owens will be joining us on Zoom –Contact sueb.littauer@jewishcharlotte.org for the link
As a means of bettering our greater Charlotte Jewish community, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte allocates donation funds to local Jewish organizations who embody Jewish values and overall better our community. In recognition of their work, we at Federation wish to bring attention to these organizations and the good that they do.
There’s something truly magical about parents reading to their children, and PJ Library plays a central role in creating those meaningful moments. Established by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, PJ Library, through its partnership with Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte (JFGC), ensures that nearly 900 children from more than 400 local families receive carefully curated, award-winning Jewish storybooks and activities delivered to their homes each month.
In greater Charlotte, PJ Library has grown into a gateway to Jewish connection and community. Federation’s support of the program goes beyond monthly book delivery, fostering engagement through hands-on activities and events like PJ in the Park, Havdalah and Hot Chocolate, and PJ Playdate, which is held on the
4th Friday of every month.
A standout example is the PJ Library story time sessions at the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library, led by Sara Solar from JFGC’s Center for Jewish Education. These sessions bring stories to life, offering young children and toddlers an interactive way to learn Jewish
themes and values. From singing songs to crafting projects inspired by the books, every session is infused with joy, connection, and discovery.
“Spending a Friday morning with children pretending to roar like dinosaurs or spin like dreidels is an amazing way to usher in Shabbat!” says Sara. PJ Library’s inclusive approach reflects Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s mission to strengthen and sustain Jewish life. By welcoming all families, regardless of their level of observance or Jewish experience, PJ Library embodies the Federation’s vision of fostering an inclusive, vibrant, and educated Jewish community where everyone feels they belong.
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte
Chaviva Fabes celebrates Jewish Charlotte’s Day of Giving with PJ Library
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte
Unpacking Israel: A Masterclass Series
By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte is excited to announce the line-up for the next three Unpacking Israel: Masterclass Series events. This exciting series is designed to offer unparalleled insights into Israel’s complexity, culture, politics, and more, through the perspectives of highly acclaimed experts. Unpacking Israel is more than just an educational opportunity; it is a call to action to be an informed and engaged member of Jewish Charlotte.
The first session of the series, held on Sept. 19, 2024, featured Haviv Rettig Gur, a prominent Israeli journalist, and senior analyst for The Times of Israel. Rettig Gur discussed the nuanced dynamics of Israeli life, the challenges of navigating a diverse and often divided society, and the global narratives that impact the perception of Israel. After a standing ovation from the crowd, attendees left with a greater understanding of the complexities facing Israel today and with the educational tools to engage with these issues in a thoughtful and informed way.
The series continues in 2025 with three exciting events, each featuring renowned speakers
who will further enrich our community’s perspective on Israel.
March 3 — As part of his stay as this year’s Artist-in-Residence, Erez Kaganovitz will lead a masterclass that explores Israeli art, culture, and storytelling. Founder of the acclaimed Humans of Tel Aviv and Humans of October 7th projects, Erez captures personal narratives that deepen our understanding of Israeli society. His photography, which will be on display at Shalom Park before and after the event, will give our community a chance to engage with the compelling stories of the heroes of October 7 and reflect on their impact.
June 19 — Nadav Eyal, Israeli journalist and commentator, will provide our community with
a deeper understanding of Israel’s evolving role on the global stage. Drawing on his expertise in geopolitics, he will unpack the challenges and opportunities Israel faces in an increasingly complex world. His presentation will offer valuable insights into international trends and current events, giving attendees a more informed perspective on Israel’s place in global affairs.
Sept. 11 — Einat Wilf, a former Israeli politician, will lead a thought-provoking discussion
on the ideological foundations of Israel, the balance between democracy and security, and the challenges of maintaining a resilient society. Her insights into Zionism and the Israel-Palestine conflict will encourage meaningful dialogue about the future of Israel and the role our community can play in supporting its continued strength and vitality.
The Unpacking Israel Masterclass Series is more than just speaker events. It is a commitment to providing our communi-
ty with knowledge and encouraging critical thinking skills needed to navigate complex narratives, counter misinformation, and respond effectively to the rising tide of antisemitism. By engaging with expert speakers and fostering meaningful dialogue, we strengthen our community’s connection to Israel and to one another, ensuring that we are united in our efforts to support and advocate for the Jewish state.
STANDING STRONG Combating Antisemitism,
Gidon Lev, featured in Erez Kaganovitz’s exhibit, “Humans of October 7th”
Erez Kaganovitz
From Classroom to Community: Empowering Through Education
By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC
Communications Specialist
Education has always been a cornerstone of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s (JFGC) mission, empowering our local community with knowledge and fostering meaningful connections. Through its innovative programming, Federation equips individuals with the tools to better understand Jewish values, history, and contemporary issues of antisemitism. Its Jewish Community Relations Council focuses on bringing these tools to diverse groups within the greater Charlotte community, amplifying reach and impact.
Recent programming through Federation’s JCRC, such as a Project Shema workshop for parents, the Executive Leaders Conference in Education, and the Confronting Antisemitism: How Attorneys Can Make a Difference course, exemplify this commitment to education as a path to engagement and advocacy.
Federation’s long-standing partnership with Project Shema provides opportunities for the greater Charlotte community to
learn and engage with experts on combating antisemitism.
Project Shema engages Jewish and non-Jewish audiences alike, training individuals to handle nuanced conversations about antisemitism and Israel through workshops curated to their specific demographic. The most recent workshop, organized by the JCRC, was for parents of local Jewish students. Participants explored ways to engage constructively with educators, administrators, and peers, ensuring that their children feel safe and supported in their learning environments. Through guided discussions and real-life scenarios, parents gained valuable insights into addressing misinformation, responding to bias, advocating for their children, and fostering open dialogue within their school communities.
Expanding its reach beyond the Jewish community, Federation’s JCRC recently hosted a groundbreaking two-part conference for local educational leaders, including principals, superintendents, heads of schools, and teachers. The Executive Leaders Conference in Education, in
partnership with the Levine JCC, the Butterfly Project, and the Stan Greenspon Holocaust and Social Justice Education Center, emphasized the importance of preparing educators with best practices to combat bias and teach Jewish history effectively. With expert speakers, interactive presentations, and resource-sharing opportunities, participants gained the tools needed to create inclusive and empathetic learning environments. By bridging the gap between Jewish education and broader community en-
Board Game
gagement, the JCRC is ensuring that key allies in the education system are prepared to support Jewish students.
Recognizing the need to engage other professional audiences, the JCRC facilitated a specialized course for North and South Carolina legal professionals: “Confronting Antisemitism: How Attorneys Can Make a Difference.” This program, the first in a quarterly series, looked at several case studies and offered effective strategies for combating antisemitism and advocating
for Jewish causes. By providing resources and guidance to fight against antisemitism on a legislative level, Federation’s JCRC empowered the more than 80 legal professionals in attendance to make a tangible impact in their communities.
“These educational initiatives are essential in ensuring that our community is informed and empowered to take meaningful action,” said Douglas Greene, Jewish Community Relations Council director at JFGC. “By engaging diverse audiences, we are able to reach people far beyond our immediate circles, strengthening both our Jewish community and the broader society.”
These initiatives are just a few examples of JFGC programs that highlight the transformative power of education in strengthening the Jewish community and fostering widespread understanding. By equipping students, educators, and professionals with the tools to educate, advocate, and engage, Federation ensures that our Charlotte community remains strong, informed, and united.
Local educational leaders at JFGC’s Executive Leaders Conference in Education
More Than Words: Jewish Values in Action at Federation
By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist
In Hebrew, there are several common words and phrases that carry profound meaning for Judaism and for our community, encapsulating the values that shape the essence of Jewish life. At Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte (JFGC), the words tikkun olam, l’chaim, am Yisrael chai, and tzedakah are more than linguistic expressions — they are the guiding principles that inspire everything they do. Whether you are familiar with these words and phrases or have never heard them, their significance within the context of our community is worth exploring further.
Tikkun Olam: Building and Strengthening Community
Tikkun olam — “repairing the world” — inspires acts of social responsibility and community building. It is the idea that we as Jewish people have a responsibility to try to right the injustices in our world so that we may create a better, more compassionate society for all.
For JFGC, it is the driving force behind the advocacy efforts of the Jewish Community
Relations Council, which works tirelessly with local and state officials to make sure that our community’s collective voice is heard. It is also a call to action that fuels programs like Outshine Hate, which combats antisemitism and educates the wider community, and NextGen, which empowers young Jewish leaders to foster inclusive, vibrant communities. The impact of tikkun olam extends globally through JFGC’s overseas allocations and the Israel Emergency Campaign-
to provide humanitarian aid for Israeli communities affected by the Israel-Hamas war.
L’Chaim: Celebrating Jewish Life
The phrase l’chaim — “to life” — is a toast that celebrates life’s blessings and possibilities. Beyond raising our glasses, l’chaim supports the idea that we should always be living our lives to the fullest. At its core, it is about affirming the beauty of Jewish life, identity, and heritage.
Events like the annual Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration, Israeli Artist in Residence program, and book author programs embody the spirit of l’chaim. By showcasing diverse aspects of Jewish culture, history, and art, Federation ensures that Jewish identity remains a source of pride and celebration.
Am Yisrael Chai: Standing with Israel and Global Jewry
Am Yisrael Chai — “The People of Israel Live” — is a declaration of resilience and unity. It reaffirms the enduring strength of the Jewish people and our unbreakable bond with the State of Israel.
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte supports this vision
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Stephanie and David Gitlin
Milton and Arlene Goldstein
Jennifer Cohen Golynsky and Leon Golynsky
Barbara and David (OBM) Goodman
Michelle Goodman
Bill and Patty (OBM) Gorelick
Marcelle Gorelick
Stacy and Todd Gorelick
Fay (OBM) and Dan (OBM) Green
through initiatives like the Sue Worrel Israel Center Endowment Fund, which will power the new iCenter for Israel Education and Engagement. The iCenter initiative supports Israel-related programming, from cultural exchanges to educational programs like the Unpacking Israel: Masterclass Series. Whether advocating for Israel on the global stage or fostering personal connections with the Israeli people, Federation ensures that Am Yisrael Chai resonates in every aspect of its work.
Tzedakah: The Soul of Philanthropy
Tzedakah, often translated as “charity,” originates from the root word “tzedek,” meaning justice. It embodies the Jewish understanding that giving is not merely an act of kindness, but a fundamental obligation to create fairness and equity in the world. Through tzedakah, our community is able to care for our most vulnerable and provide opportunities for engagement and social advocacy that benefit everyone. None of what Federation accomplishes would be possible without the tzedakah of community members like you.
As our community’s cen -
Keith E. Greenspon
Stanley Greenspon
Jodi and Josh Greenwald
Bonnie F. Hart
Stephanie Brodsky Haynes
Joel Horwich
Andrew and Christy Horwitz
Jake and Betsy House
Jonathan M. Howard
Donald and Susan Jacobs
David Jacobson
Robert and Leola (OBM) Jacobson
Florence Kaufman Jaffa
Dana and Andrew Kapustin
Robert and Nancy Kipnis
Paula and Richard Klein
Lorrie and Barry Klemons and Family
Elise and Jaime Kosofsky
Cary Bernstein and Alan Kronovet
Marcia B. Lampert
Alison and Mark Lerner
Eric and Susan Lerner
Gary and Donna Lerner
Harry and Gloria Lerner
Howard Levine and Julie Lerner Levine
Barbara and Jerry Levin
Ross C. Levin
Leon (OBM) and Sandra Levine
Ellis Levinson (OBM)
Gary and Jane Levinson
Holly and Hal Levinson
Lisa Strause Levinson
Sam and Linda Levy
Laura and Marc Lewin
Sue Littauer
Joshua and Adina Lowensteiner
Meg D. Goldstein and Matthew Luftglass
Rose (OBM) and Abe (OBM) Luski
Audrey Madans (OBM)
Scott and Pamela Menaker
Laura Milgrim
Risa and David Miller
tral philanthropic organization, JFGC brings tzedakah to life through the Annual Campaign. This campaign powers educational programs, engagement opportunities, and supports over 70 beneficiary agencies providing critical services, from addressing food insecurity to creating work opportunities for young adults with special needs. Each dollar raised reflects our greater Charlotte community’s commitment to building a just and compassionate world, fulfilling the promise of tzedakah.
The values represented by tikkun olam, l’chaim, am Yisrael chai, and tzedakah are woven into the fabric of JFGC’s mission. They reflect the organization’s four core objectives: Community, Jewish Identity, Israel, and Philanthropy. These values remind us that every action, from a small act of kindness to a celebration of Jewish culture, advocacy for Israel, or a donation to the Annual Campaign, adds meaning and purpose to our collective story.
Edwin and Jill (OBM) Newman
Richard J. Osborne
Marcelle and Allan Oxman
Wendy and Lee Pake
Brenda and Floyd Patten
Larry and Dale Polsky
Steven and Melissa Raphael
Andrew and Jennifer Rosen
Anita Rounds
Susan and Bernie Sandler
Marty and Elaine Schefflin
Mike (OBM) and Sara Schreibman
Larry Schwartz
Melvin Segal
Linda C. Seigel
Amy Jill Seitlin
Bobby and Stacey Selkin
Louis A. Sinkoe and H. Kevin Levine
Anne and Mike Sinsheimer
Lori and Eric Sklut
Ira and Stacey Slomka
Steve and Emily Snyder
Marcia Solomon
Elizabeth Hope Star
Gary and Stephanie Starr
Joseph (OBM) and Renee Steiner
Ken and Marcia Stern
Stephanie Townsend
Jeffrey and Karen Turk
Amy and Ross Udoff
David and Debra Van Glish
Judie and Michael Van Glish
Liz Wahls
Kim (OBM) and Sue Worrel
Robert (OBM) and Anne Yudell
Marisa and Joe Zeibert
Emily and Samuel Zimmern
William and Angela Zimmern
Mildred Zuckerman (OBM)
*Donors who wish to remain anonymous OBM - Of Blessed Memory
Jewish Family Services: The Small but Mighty Force Behind Community Support
By Julie Loftis, JFS Marketing Specialist
Jewish Family Services (JFS) is often recognized for its food pantry, a vital resource in the community. However, behind the scenes, JFS provides a much broader range of services that touch lives in profound ways. From children struggling with anxiety to older adults facing the challenges of aging, JFS effectively transforms lives, demonstrating its deep commitment to the well-being of the Charlotte community. Through its four core competencies — Emotional Health & Well-Being, Senior Engagement, Crisis Response & Assistance, and Community Education & Awareness — JFS serves as a beacon of support, guidance, and connection for people at all stages of life.
Emotional health and well-being are at the heart of JFS’s work. The organization provides counseling utilizing science-based therapeutic interventions. Therapists have completed specialized training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), and FACES (Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale) for premarital counseling. JFS works with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, grief, and major life transitions, offering compassionate care grounded in data-driven, proven practices. One local mother,
Rachel, shared how JFS helped her family: “My daughter’s anxiety was ruling our household. I didn’t know how to help her, and I felt like I was failing as a parent. JFS gave us the tools we needed — not just for my daughter, but for me. Now our home is calmer, and she’s thriving.”
For older adults, JFS offers a wide range of senior engagement programs that combat loneliness and enhance quality of life. Social isolation can have significant negative effects on well-being, and JFS ensures that seniors remain connected to the community. Friendly volunteer visits, holiday programs such as the Senior Chanukah Party, and additional programs such as wellness workshops provide opportunities for engagement and joy. The organization delivers gift bags for birthdays and Jewish holidays, reminding these individuals that they are cherished members of the community. JFS also supports caregivers struggling with the complexities of looking after aging parents, providing guidance and resources to those in this often-overlooked role. Within this pillar, JFS provides crucial services to Holocaust survivors, ensuring they receive the dignity, care, and attention they deserve. Case management, financial assistance, and individual outreach help survivors maintain their independence while receiving the support they need. JFS plans regular social programming for the
Holocaust survivor community. One survivor, David, expressed the impact JFS has had on his life: “At this stage in life, you can feel invisible. But my caseworker at JFS makes sure I’m not forgotten. She helps connect me with resources to make sure I have what I need, and, most importantly, listens to my stories. It means everything to me.”
JFS is also a critical source of crisis response and assistance, providing emergency support to individuals and families facing sudden hardship. The JFS Food Pantry, a satellite pantry of Nourish Up (formerly Loaves & Fishes), ensures that those struggling with food insecurity have access to nutritious meals. Financial aid and other emergency resources may be available through case management to help people regain stability after unexpected crises. For Jason, a single father who lost his job, JFS became a lifeline: “I was always the one helping others—I never thought I’d be the one in need. When I lost my job, I had nowhere to turn. JFS helped with groceries, rent, and even emotional support. But what really made a difference was how they treated me—with dignity. They helped me get back on my feet and find a way forward to regain independence.”
Beyond direct services, JFS plays a vital role in community education and awareness. Workshops and educational programs for the community provide
valuable information on mental health, aging, parenting, and crisis intervention. Awareness campaigns, such as those for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month, shed light on critical social issues and provide resources for those in need. By hosting training sessions for other agency staff members, such as summer camp counselors or preschool teachers, JFS helps the community understand and address pressing challenges while equipping individuals with the tools they need to support one another.
JFS’s executive director, Howard Olshansky often hears the same response from those who learn about the agency’s full range of services: “People often are surprised at how much we do; we are small but mighty.” The impact JFS has on the community goes far beyond
what most people see, creating meaningful change in the lives of those they serve. Whether providing emotional support, crisis intervention, financial assistance, or simply a compassionate presence in times of need, JFS is there. JFS strives to not just provide immediate relief- but also empower people to move forward with strength and stability. In a world that can feel uncertain, JFS remains a steady, guiding force—helping individuals and families heal, connect, and build a brighter future. For more information about Jewish Family Services and how they can help, visit jfscharlotte. org.
Jewish Family Services Acknowledgements January 2025
Volunteers: Brian Ablitz, Jessica Alfandary, Marcia Arnholt, Mike Arnholt, Daniel Benjamin, Andrew Bernstein, Jonathan Collman, Andrea Cronson, Julie Dermack, Elayne DeMaria, Joni Deutsch, Jamie Fram, Rachel Friedman, Robert Friedman, Meredith Gartner, Blair Goldsmith, Richard Goldsmith, JoAnn Goldstein, Jennifer Golynsky, Gail Halverson, June Hirschmann, Rebecca Hockfield, Tara and Liat Hubara, Bob Jacobson, Etti Krause, Jennifer Koss, Stephanie Kreitman, Glenn Kunkes, Eric Lerner, Lisa Levinson, Kim Levy, Adina Loewensteiner, Deb Perelgut, Wendy Petricoff, Barbara Rein, Nina Rose, Janice Shubin, Cindy Siesel, Stuart Singer, Lisa Somerson, Harry Sparks, Lorin Stiefel, Steve Teich, Gail Vogel, Nancy Wielunski, Amanda Zaidman, Jeff Zaleon
Hadassah Meal Preppies: Gina Bonfiglio, Sara Friedman, June and Paul Hirschmann, Johnson & Wales, Penny Krieger, Judy Kaufmann, Judy Nascimento
Food Drives: Temple Kol Tikvah b’nei mitzvah class
Shalom Green: Thank you to all Shalom Green volunteers for providing fresh produce to our pantry clients.
Food Pantry Donations: Thank you to our generous community for continuing to donate to the food pantry. We continue to collect donations every other Wednesday at the portico entrance to the Blumenthal Center for Jewish Education Building at Shalom Park.
Jewish Family Services Tributes January 2025
Happy Birthday
Sandra Levine
Paul and Lynn Edelstein
Linda Ashendorf
Floyd and Brenda Patten
Dan Coblenz
Craig, Erica, Max, Sam, and Ben Coblenz
Penny Krieger
Robert and Sheila Peltzer
Larry and Dale Polsky
Catherine Cohen and family
Anita and Marvin Shapiro
Floyd and Brenda Patten
In Memory of Franki Clement
David and Debby Block
Olivia Cohen
Steven Cohen
Mina Sue Pearlman
Stanley Greenspon
Rabbi Richard Rocklin
Stanley Greenspon
Linda Sara
Gary Silverstein
Lyn Satisky
Stanley Greenspon
Mazel Tov
Burton Horwitz on receiving
NC Governor’s Award
Stanley Greenspon
Advocating for Social Workers and Protecting the Future of Social Work
By Howard Olshansky, JFS Executive Director
March is National Social Work Month, a time to recognize the essential contributions of social workers in strengthening individuals, families, and communities. Licensed social workers are the largest group of mental
health providers in the U.S., and their impact extends far beyond counseling. They play critical roles in healthcare, education, elder care, veteran services, and programs that support vulnerable populations.
Social workers are often behind the scenes, ensuring that
people receive the resources they need. If you’ve ever been hospitalized, a social worker likely helped coordinate your discharge care. In schools, social workers facilitate services for students with special needs, address behavioral challenges, and support school-wide initiatives. If you receive Medicare, Social Security, or veteran benefits, a social worker was likely involved in the process. And for those facing domestic violence, mental health challenges, homelessness, or food insecurity, social workers are on the front lines, connecting individuals to essential services.
The Impact of Policy and Funding Shifts
Throughout my 50 years as a social worker in the nonprofit sector, I have seen many shifts in government priorities that have impacted the availability of social services. Changes in leadership always bring new policies, adjustments in funding, and evolving approaches to social programs. These shifts, while challenging, are an expected part of the work.
However, one of the first actions taken by the new administration in Washington — a temporary freeze on all federal
grants and funding—sent a particularly destabilizing message. Though the freeze was rescinded within 24 hours, it caused immediate uncertainty and disruption for nonprofit organizations and government agencies that rely on federal funds. For social workers and the people they serve, the brief pause raised concerns about the long-term security of essential programs. It was a reminder of how quickly the foundation of social services can be shaken.
The uncertainty created by this action was not just about job security for social workers. More importantly, it was about the potentially life-threatening impact on their clients. Social workers enter this profession out of a commitment to helping others, and when funding instability threatens the services they provide, it creates stress and anxiety—not just for the professionals but for the communities that rely on them.
Why
Stability Matters
This moment highlights a fundamental truth: stable and consistent funding for social services is crucial. Programs that provide mental health support, housing assistance, and child welfare services cannot function effec-
JOIN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY IN ATTENDING
About Parade
Parade has received overwhelming acclaim since its debut. Leo and Lucille Frank are a newlywed Jewish couple struggling to make a life in the old red hills of Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice, and devotion. Riveting and gloriously hopeful, Parade reminds us that to love, we must truly see one another
Parade is directed by Tony Award® winner Michael Arden, with book by two-time Tony Award® winner, Pulitzer Prize winner, and Academy Award® winner Alfred Uhry, music and lyrics by three-time Tony Award® winner Jason Robert Brown, and co-conceived by 21-time TonyAward®-winning legend Harold Prince.
tively if they are constantly at risk of sudden funding cuts or administrative changes. Uncertainty leads to delays in service, disruptions in care, and increased hardship for those in need.
As we recognize National Social Work Month, it is important to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of social workers and to advocate for the stability of the programs they administer. Ensuring reliable support for social services is not a partisan issue—it is about maintaining the safety net that so many individuals and families depend on.
By understanding the impact of funding instability and supporting policies that provide consistency, we can help ensure that social workers can continue doing what they do best: serving their communities with compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication.
Followed by a reception with hors d’oeuvres hosted by the Shalom Park DEI Committee
To purchase discounted tickets, scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/deiParadeTickets
To attend the after show reception, please RSVP to Howard Olshansky by March 14, 2025 at Howard.Olshansky@jfscharlotte.org Sun, March 30, 2025 at 1:30 pm Belk Theater At Blumenthal Arts Center
The Shalom Park DEI Committee is pleased to invite attendees, regardless if tickets are purchased through the above link or from another source, are invited to a post-show reception and conversation. The location will be the Mezzanine level. Please RSVP for the reception to Howard Olshansky at Howard.Olshansky@jfscharlotte.org.
Around the Table: The Concealed and Revealed in Purim
By Charlotte Rouchouze
One of the things I appreciate most about Judaism is the incredible richness of our holiday calendar. These beautiful festivals carry us from month to month and from season to season. As someone who has studied literature, I also appreciate the literary quality of our holidays. Each one tells a story and allows us to immerse ourselves in that story, finding new angles and interpretations each year. In that regard, Purim is not unique on the Jewish calendar. Like every other holiday, Purim tells a dramatic story about a pivotal moment in the history of the Jewish people. And yet, it might be the most literary of the holidays, thanks to the complexity and richness of the Book of Es-
ther, which is read in its entirety every year.
An interesting aspect of the Purim story as a piece of literature is its recurring use of the themes of concealing and revealing. It is Vashti’s refusal to show her face that starts the drama in the court. Then, Esther, the newly selected queen, hides not her face but the fact that she is a Jew as she marries King Ahasuerus. Mordechai wins favor with the king by revealing the identities of the plotters against the king. Haman hides his own plot against the Jews and his plan to kill Mordechai, only to end up being himself hanged on the gallows he prepared for Mordechai—and on and on. The identities of the various players are like chess pieces on a board throughout the story. According to Chassidic tradition, the greatest concealment of the story is that of G-d’s presence, which is not mentioned a single time in the text. As such, the Purim story becomes an iconic tale of concealed miracles.
The observance of Purim also plays heavily on the hiding and revealing theme: the costumes disguise our identity; the alcohol we drink mixes up the categories we usually think in; and I even read that mishloach manot
is intended to disguise tzedakah as a holiday gift. For several years, some friends and I made hamantaschen to raise money for Ukraine, and this sort of tzedakah project seems like a natural fit for this holiday.
When we make hamantaschen, the classic triangular Purim cookie, we also hide the filling, giving the eater a surprise upon biting into it.
I decided to share my hamantaschen recipe with you this month, and it is truly the only one you will ever need. The traditional Ashkenazi fillings are poppy seed paste and fruit jam. So this year, think about the hidden surprise in the hamantaschen, and take extra joy in giving them to friends and family.
Charlotte Rouchouze, PhD is a local French teacher, food blogger, and beaded jewelry designer. Her blog about food traditions from around the world can be found at www. thechildrenstable.com. Contact her at charlotte.rouchouze@yahoo.com.
VILLAGE life
Hamantaschen
Makes about a dozen cookies
Equipment: 4-inch round cookie cutter
Ingredients:
½ cup butter, softened ½ cup sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 egg
2 cups flour, plus more for rolling out
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. grated orange zest
1 tsp. vanilla
Pinch of salt
Fillings of your choice: apricot or other jam, poppy seed paste, Nutella, etc.
Instructions:
- Work together the butter, sugars, egg, vanilla, and orange zest.
- Add the flour, baking powder, and salt and mix until a stiff dough forms.
- Form into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Once chilled, preheat oven to 350°F and roll the dough out to about ⅛ inch.
- Next, cut into 3-4 inch circles with a cookie cutter.
- Place a teaspoon of filling in each circle and pinch the dough to form 3 corners, fold in 3 sides, bring them to the center to partly hide the filling, and pinch 3 corners to make a triangle.
- Transfer to parchment paper on a large baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until golden.
The Village on Morehead has ushered in sophisticated retirement living in the Queen City. Surrounded by the heritage neighborhoods of Eastover, Myers Park and Dilworth – its impeccable finishes, Aspenwood service detail, dining and resortstyle amenities make it the premier address. Spaces designed for entertaining, fitness, relaxation and a dedicated team provide a secure, lock and leave lifestyle for members.
Should you be looking for yourself, lovedone or friend, this beautiful community provides all the comfort, care, and exceptional amenities you can expect from Village Life
Havurat Tikvah Welcomes Community for In-Person Shabbat Services
Havurat Tikvah will hold a Community Shabbat Service on March 15, 10 a.m., at Avondale Presbyterian Church, 2821 Park Rd., in the classroom next to the office (see signs at the door). Following services, a social time will be held along with kiddush, challah and blessings.
Havurat Tikvah is a warm, supportive, and nurturing Jewish Reconstructionist congregation with Shabbat services and a full spectrum of holiday observances, as well as religious educational options for both families and single adults. We are a diverse group of families, singles, and Jewish and interfaith couples who participate in projects that promote social justice.
We value and depend upon member participation and leadership for our religious services, spiritual growth, and governance.
Havurat Tikvah is an affiliate of Reconstructing Judaism.
For more information on upcoming services, programs, membership or other queries, call 980-225-5330, write to Havurat Tikvah, P.O. Box 12684, Charlotte, NC 28220, email membership@havurattikvah. org or visit havurattikvah.org. Havurat Tikvah is also on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/ havurattikvah/.
LIBERTY Youth Give Back Through Tikkun Olam
By Maddie Kunkel, LIBERTY
Membership Vice President
To ring in the new year, the LIBERTY board dedicated our January program to giving back to the community. LIBERTY, which stands for Life in Beth El Reform Temple Youth, is Temple Beth El’s chapter of NFTY-SAR (North American Federation of Temple Youth Southern Area Region), a youth movement within the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ). Our goal is to create a welcoming space where Jewish teens in Charlotte can explore their faith, form friendships, and have fun.
One of the most important values in Judaism is tikkun olam, a Hebrew phrase meaning “repairing the world.” Through our social action events, we actively take steps toward creating a bet-
ter world.
On Saturday, Jan. 25, we gathered at Temple Beth El for two special projects: making no-sew blankets for the Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital and assembling Shabbat kits for Jewish Family Services of Greater Charlotte (JFS). We chose these projects because they reflect kehillah (community), one of
NFTY’s core principles. By making blankets for children in the hospital, we hope to provide warmth and comfort, letting them know that a community is cheering them on and praying for their recovery. Our Shabbat kits, filled with tea lights, printed blessings, and juice boxes, remind those facing challenges that no matter their background or circumstances, they are part of the greater Jewish community.
LIBERTY president Jocelyn Siegel shared why this project was so meaningful: “We wanted to give back to the community in a way that could resonate with our Jewish identities. We love doing Shabbat and Havdalah together, so we wanted others to feel the same joy that we feel on these days, and we figured this would be the perfect way to do so!”
vice president Jacob Schwartz added, “Hospitals can be scary places for kids, but if they are given a warm blanket, hopefully it will make the experience much less scary.” After sharing our own childhood hospital experiences, we all agreed that even the smallest gestures, like a handmade blanket, can improve a child’s mood throughout their hospital stay.
By Michael Kafer
For Jewish families in Charlotte facing food insecurity, celebrating Passover can be especially challenging. Temple Beth El’s Special Programs of Interest and Concerns for Elders (SPICE)is stepping up to help ensure that everyone in the community has the essentials they need for a meaningful holiday.
On Wednesday, March from 10 to 11 a.m., SPICE members and volunteers will host their annual Passover Food Drive to support the Jewish Family Services of Greater Charlotte (JFS) food pantry. The collection will take place at the main entrance of Temple Beth El, where donations of Passover staples, includ-
Throughout the event, we had a meaningful conversation about why these projects mattered to us. Asher Schreibman, a LIBERTY member, reflected on his experience: “Making the blankets was nice because I don’t volunteer like this much, but it makes me feel good that these fun blankets are going to kids who need them.”
This event was just the beginning of many social action events LIBERTY has planned for 2025. As we continue our commitment to tikkun olam, we encourage our community to join us—whether by attending events like this, volunteering, or even spreading kindness in small ways, like offering a smile to someone who needs it. Together, we can make the world a better place!
LIBERTY programming
SPICE Passover Food Drive Supports Jewish Family Services
ing gefilte fish, grape juice, macaroons, Passover candy, matzah ball soup mix, and matzah. Nonperishable kosher items and financial contributions (checks to JFS or gift cards to Walmart or Aldi) are also welcome.
This effort builds on the success of past food drives, including SPICE’s 2024 Chanukah collection, which gathered more than 30 bags of food and $400 in donations. As the need for assistance grows, the support of our community is crucial in ensuring all families can celebrate Passover.
Following the food drive, SPICE will host its lunch and learn series, featuring “Reproductive Rights in Focus: Hala-
cha, Advocacy, and Action.” The program will include insights from Rabbi Lexi Erdheim on Jewish law and reproductive rights, a screening of “Under G-d,” and remarks from Brooke Adams, the former chair of the Board for Reproductive Rights Coalition. Lunch will include turkey chili, kugel, fresh fruit, and chocolate cake.
SPICE provides a robust calendar of cultural, educational, and social programs for Jewish adults 55 and older. Whether through thought-provoking discussions, musical performances, or community service projects, SPICE fosters lifelong learning, connection, and impact.
All community members are invited to support the Passover Food Drive through their donations. For more information about SPICE, its initiatives, and upcoming programs, visit templebethel.org/spice or call (704) 366-1948.
SPICE Passover Food Drive
Needed items: Passover items, including gefilte fish, grape juice, macaroons, Passover candy, matzah ball soup, matzah, and kosher nonperishables
Financial contributions: Checks to Jewish Family Services, gift cards to Walmart or Aldi
LIBERTY teens create colorful, handmade blankets and Shabbat kits.
LIBERTY teens create handmade blankets and Shabbat kits.
Young Families Celebration (ages 0-8) and pizza dinner
A Wicked Wicked Spiel!
Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a wine & beer bar, bourbon tasting with Rabbi Wolk, dancing, a photo booth, and a costume contest.
Megillah reading
This is a TI sponsored congregational event for all ages! Donations are welcome. RSVP required.
Haman’s Miscalculation: A Nation Sustained by the Divine Adult Engagement
By Rabbi Levi Cohen
Why is a holiday so full of joy, costumes, and celebration called Purim —“lots”?
The name comes from the lots cast by Haman to determine the date for his wicked plan to destroy the Jewish people. His reliance on casting lots reflected his belief in randomness — that life is governed by chance, with no higher power guiding events. Haman viewed the Jews as subject to the blind forces of nature, bound by luck and fate alone. In a “survival of the fittest” world, what business did we have staying around in an era when empires rose and fell by the century?
Haman saw us, the Jewish people, as vulnerable — a scattered and exiled nation, disconnected and powerless in the natural order of the world. To him, we were an easy target, our survival seemingly unsupported by logic or strength. Yet, his actions revealed a misunderstanding of what truly defines us as a people.
When Haman presented his case to King Achashverosh, he described us as "a nation scat-
tered and separated," but also noted, “Their laws are different from those of every other nation.” This observation unknowingly touched on our strength. What Haman failed to understand is that we are not defined by our physical location or political power but by our unique connection to G d, our loyalty to the Torah, and our shared commitment to mitzvot. It is this spiritual foundation that has preserved our identity through generations of exile and persecution.
Haman’s world view, his belief in randomness and his attempts to erase us, was proven so wrong that 2,381 years later, we are still here, celebrating Purim with joy and unity. The holiday teaches us that our distinctiveness as Jews is not a liability — it is our greatest strength. When we embrace our heritage and stand together, we affirm the enduring power of our connection to G d and to each other.
This is the essence of Purim: finding G d’s guiding hand even when He seems hidden. While the story of Purim does not ex-
plicitly mention G-d’s name, His presence is felt in every twist and turn of the narrative. The triumph of our people in Shushan demonstrates that when we stand together, proud and united, miracles can happen.
This year at Chabad of Charlotte, we are embracing this message with our Purim in Jerusalem celebration on Friday, March 14, beginning before Shabbat and carrying into a Shabbat dinner
celebration. Our theme reflects the unity of our people, both in the holy land and the diasporastanding as one nation, bound by faith and purpose.
Together, we’ll fulfill the four mitzvot of Purim:
1. Hearing the Megillah — Reliving the story of Purim by listening to its public reading (once on Thursday evening and once on Friday).
10:30am: Shabbat Morning Service and Kiddush Lunch
7:30pm: Havdalah, Dessert and Conversation
ing gifts of food to spread joy and friendship.
3. Matanot L’Evyonim — Giving generously to those in need.
4. Seudat Purim — Enjoying a festive meal in celebration of our salvation.
Join us for an evening of joy, reflection, and celebration as we honor the timeless power of unity and the enduring spirit of our people. Together, we’ll bring the spirit of Jerusalem into our community and carry the light and joy of Purim into Shabbat.
Learn more about our celebration as well as all the info you need on Purim’s meaning, laws and customs at www.chabadnc. org/Purim
Chag Purim Sameach!
Rabbi Josh Weinberg
Moishe House Launches Umbrella Brand “Mem Global,” Ushering in a New Era of Jewish Young Adult Engagement
Moishe House, the global leader in building vibrant, peer-driven communities for Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s, is proud to announce the launch of Mem Global, the umbrella brand for its suite of programs serving young Jewish adults throughout the world. This evolution represents a significant milestone as the organization continues to expand its impact and offer diverse, global Jewish experiences to young adults worldwide.
Since 2006, Moishe House has supported Jewish young adults in creating impactful, peer-driven communities. Now, as Mem Global, the organization is embracing a refreshed identity that highlights the breadth of its offerings while maintaining the welcoming, authentic spirit that has always defined its work. While Mem Global will be the new umbrella brand, the flagship programs such as Moishe House, Moishe Pods, Moishe House Without Walls, Embark,
Camp Nai Nai Nai, Base, Learning Retreats, and the Jewish Learning Collaborative will all continue to thrive as part of the Mem Global family of programs serving young Jewish adults. Mem Global Brings Jewish Community Wherever You Are
The new umbrella name, Mem Global, reflects the organization’s global reach and mission to foster Jewish connection and leadership across various communities. This brand evolution maintains the core values that made Moishe House successful while creating a platform for future growth and innovation.
“Mem Global reflects the wide range of experiences and diversity of the programs we offer to Jewish young adults around the world,” said David Cygielman, CEO of Mem Global. “We founded Moishe House as one house where young adults could create a meaningful Jewish community. That model
spread around the world. Today, beyond the houses, we engage young adults in so many ways and places as they develop Jewish communities and become leaders themselves. This is the right moment for us to evolve our branding and enable future growth while staying true to our foundational principles of impact, peer-driven leadership, and meaningful connection.”
Stronger Global Impact
While Maintaining Local Roots
Under the Mem Global umbrella, flagship programs like Moishe House, Moishe House Without Walls (MHWOW), Base, Camp Nai Nai Nai, Retreatology, Learning Retreats, Embark, and the Jewish Learning Collaborative (JLC) will continue to thrive. Each will retain its unique identity while benefiting from the unified strength of the parent brand. This rebrand also sets the stage for launching future programs, creating more opportunities for young adults
to engage with Jewish life.
The Mem Global rebrand provides a cohesive structure for these initiatives while offering clarity to both participants and supporters.
A Strong Commitment to Working with Partners
Mem Global remains committed to maintaining strong partnerships with other Jewish nonprofits and foundations as part of evolution. Collaboration with local, national, and international partners will ensure that Jewish young adults around the world have access to Jewish experiences that feel relevant, exciting, and uniquely their own.
“Our dedication to working with peers in the Jewish nonprofit world is as strong as ever,” said Cygielman. “By working together, we amplify our impact and ensure that the future of Jewish life is vibrant, enriching, and filled with opportunities for young adults to connect with their heritage.”
About Mem Global
Mem Global is a nonprofit organization that creates peer-driven, community-building programs for Jewish young adults worldwide. Through its diverse suite of programs, including Moishe House, MHWOW, Base, Camp Nai Nai Nai, Retreatology, Mem Global Learning Retreats, Embark, and the Jewish Learning Collaborative, Mem Global fosters community, learning, and leadership by supporting Jewish young adults to create meaningful Jewish experiences for themselves and their peers. With a global reach and local impact, Mem Global supports the next generation of Jewish leaders to build Jewish community wherever they are.
For more information, please visit www.memglobal.org or contact: dave.press@memglobal.org.
Staying active here is so easy
Whether you want to spend your time doing what you love most or try something new, you can find it at Brookdale Carriage Club Providence. Step out of your cozy, comfortable apartment and explore our 44 amazing acres to enjoy relaxing walks, fishing, golf, swimming and so much more. Come see what experience awaits.
For more information or to schedule a tour, call (704) 899-1990
Brookdale Carriage Club Providence
Independent Living | Assisted Living
Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care
Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing
5800 Old Providence Road
Charlotte, North Carolina 28226
brookdale.com
Women’s News
Hadassah Has What You’re Looking For
By Aileen Greenberg-Kriner
How do you like to spend your free time? Cooking or baking? Hadassah has that. Hosting get-togethers with friends? Hadassah has that. Is advocacy or education your thing? We have those, too. Reading? Learning? Drinking wine? Yes, yes, and yes! Join us!
Why We Do What We Do
We believe in Hadassah’s mission: “Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, is a volunteer organization that inspires a passion for and commitment to the land, the people, and the future of Israel. Through education, advocacy, and youth development, and its support of medical care and research at Hadassah Medical Organization, Hadassah enhances the health and lives of people in Israel, the United States and worldwide.”
The Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) includes two Hadassah hospitals in Jerusalem that treat one million people a year, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Hadassah raises funds for the HMO, two Youth Aliyah Villages in Israel for atrisk youth, and scholarships for Young Judaea camps and pro-
grams.
Hadassah is passionately committed to Israel and Zionism and has strong networks and programs in the U.S. to advocate for Israel and help combat anti-Zionism and antisemitism. In the U.S., Hadassah members are active in fighting for women’s reproductive rights and health equity, and educating about women’s health and wellness issues, including heart health, breast cancer, and infertility.
Hadassah Charlotte Metro
The Hadassah Charlotte Metro chapter is part of a network of 700 Hadassah chapters, with one in every congressional district in the U.S., and nearly 300,000 members nationwide.
Every year, each Hadassah chapter is given a fundraising goal, and we work hard to meet or exceed it. In the past, we had a multi-year goal to modernize the dermatology department nurses’ station in Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem. Proceeds from our 2024-25 Charlotte Metro Jewish Community Directory will go towards funding a pediatric emergency bay at Hadassah Hospital Mt. Scopus.
To fulfill our obligations, we
have large fundraisers, like Celebrate the TaTas, which takes many months of planning and a village to organize, and the Jewish Community Directory, which we first published in 1947.
We have smaller fundraisers, like the one we held in December, in conjunction with a Chanukah party, to raise money to help Camp Judaea in Hendersonville, N.C. recover from the devastating floods from Hurricane Helene. We collect orders for National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) cards, where our chapter earns a donation for every card sold. In 2024, we received more than $3,200 from NMJL, which we sent to HMO. This year, we received orders for more than 500 cards. Thank you to everyone who ordered through our chapter. You did a mitzvah!
Some activities are mostly social, like our monthly Wine & Schmooze night at Vintner Wine Market, new and prospective member Coffee Klatches at various cafés throughout the Charlotte area, Passover Tasting, where everyone prepares a Passover dish, and we share recipes, and Hadassah Preppies, when we cook and package meals for
Jewish Family Services of Greater Charlotte (see event listing below). These events may not be fundraisers, but they build friendships and sisterhood, connecting and empowering women to effect change.
We have opportunities for you to help with event programming, fundraising, communications, marketing, education, advocacy, and membership. We welcome new members and new ideas. To learn more about joining Hadassah, contact Laurie Sheinhaus at HadassahCLT@gmail.com or (980) 553-1880, or come to one of our events listed below and on our website, www.hadassahcltevents.org. Follow us on Facebook (Hadassah CLT Metro) and Instagram (Hadassah Charlotte Metro).
March Events and Meetings
- Start your day off right! Come to the new and prospective member Coffee Klatsch at Knowledge Perk in Ft. Mill on Sunday, March 2, at 10 a.m.
- Spend an evening with fun-loving Hadassah women at Wine & Schmooze on Tuesday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at Vintner Wine Market in the Arboretum. Purim begins at sundown on
March 13 and ends on March 14 at nightfall.
- Short Story Discussion Group meets on March 14 at 11:45 a.m. on Zoom to discuss “Probabilities” by Elizabeth Edelglass in the book “Frankly Feminist: Short Stories by Jewish Women.”
- The next Hadassah CLT Metro Board meeting is Monday, March 17, at 7:00 p.m. in person at the Levine JCC and on Zoom.
- Join Hadassah BookTalk on Tuesday, March 25, at 7 p.m. on Zoom to discuss “Kissing Girls on Shabbat: A Memoir by Sara Glass.”
- Come to this year’s Passover Tasting Lunch and Board Installation on Sunday, March 30, from noon-2 p.m. Bring a homemade dairy or pareve/ vegetarian Passover appetizer, main course, or dessert to share. Email your recipe to Roz at rcooper133@aol.com by March 23. Check our website for details and location.
SPRING PROGRAM
Small but Mighty Greenspon Center Makes a Difference in Combating Hate
By Mary Eshet
After interviewing representatives from the Stan Greenspon Holocaust and Social Justice Education Center, a local TV reporter went outside to take photos of the building where the center is located. “Is this whole building called the Greenspon Center?” she asked.
A member of the crowd entering the Gambrell Center to see Geddy Lee on International Holocaust Remembrance Day asked, “Is this whole center dedicated to Jewish studies and the Greenspon Center?”
If truth be known, the Greenspon Center comprises just two full-time staff members and occupies a modest (but lovely!) room in the basement of a building on the Queens University campus.
It’s easy to see why one might think it’s a bigger organization: the issues the Greenspon Center seeks to address are formidable, and the programs it delivers are ambitious. Its mission is to provide transformational educational experiences that honor the history and lessons of the Holocaust, encourage empathetic and cross-cultural understanding, and empower individuals to stand against injustice in all its forms. Through education, the Greenspon Center seeks to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate.
That is a tall order, especially in today’s environment of rising antisemitism and alarming ignorance and misinformation about the Holocaust. In a survey published in January 2025, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported that anti-Jewish sentiments are at an all-time high globally.
The survey found that 46% of the world’s adult population, an estimated 2.2 billion people, harbor deeply entrenched antisemitic attitudes, more than double compared to ADL’s first worldwide survey a decade ago and the highest level on record since ADL started tracking these trends globally. Results also showed that 20% of respondents worldwide have not heard about the Holocaust. Less than half accept the Holocaust’s historical accuracy, which falls to 39% among 18- to 34-year-olds, highlighting a worrying demographic trend.
The ADL has also reported that antisemitism in K-12 schools has become an urgent concern. Nearly 1,200 antisemitic incidents were recorded by ADL in non-Jewish schools in 2023, up from 495 incidents in 2022. The ADL noted, “This surge is not confined to isolated incidents but reflects a broader, deeply troubling trend across educational settings, public and private alike.”
North Carolina is not exempt from these trends. The ADL reported that North Carolina saw a
287% increase in antisemitic incidents in 2023. The Greenspon Center assists the ADL with its work, consulting on the ADL report card process for universities and supporting its Center for Antisemitism Research.
The Greenspon Center’s focus on education is affirmed by ADL research, which shows a significant relationship between Holocaust education and a reduction in antisemitic attitudes, supporting the conviction that education can be a powerful weapon against antisemitism.
“The trends and data are daunting,” said Judy La Pietra, director of the Greenspon Center. “Rather than getting bogged down in discouragement, we are redoubling our efforts, and we want this community to know good work is being done every day to combat hate.”
As Katie Cunningham, assistant director of the Greenspon Center, shared for a Spectrum News story in January, North Carolina is fortunate to be one of the states that mandates teaching about the Holocaust. Yet, it is a complex and traumatic subject to teach. La Pietra and Cunningham are experienced educators and recognize teachers need support to teach about the Holocaust effectively and safely.
The Greenspon Center’s Certification in Holocaust Pedagogy program prepares educators by providing information, resources, and support. The program culminates with a trip to Poland, where educators can go beyond the classroom to experiential learning they can bring back to students. More than 20 educators graduate with this certification and travel to Poland annually, and more than 500,000 students across North Carolina receive Holocaust education influenced by the Greenspon Center’s work.
La Pietra is driven to reach broader and bigger audiences with education about the Holocaust and its relevance today. The Greenspon Center anchors its major annual event around
On Jan. 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the Sandra Levine Theatre at Queens University was filled with a rapt audience of 900. Some were not familiar with Rush and Geddy Lee, and some were passionate Rush fans with limited knowledge of the Holocaust. These 900 people walked away with a
greater understanding of the Holocaust thanks to Lee’s personal reflections, and hopefully with a desire to do more to help combat hate today.
“Every day, I wake up aware of the enormous challenges of today,” said La Pietra. “Then, I go to work. I go to work with hope. As Geddy Lee told us, we have to have hope, because without hope, what do we have?”
International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and no idea is too big for La Pietra to dream of — and make happen. In 2024, she worked to bring the “Seeing Auschwitz” exhibit to Charlotte for its North American debut. Nearly 16,000 students and others visited this remarkable exhibit comprising a collection of 100 photographs of the camp that have survived to the present day.
As she thought about an event for 2025, she reflected on the memoir “My Effin’ Life,” by Geddy Lee, lead vocalist and bassist for the rock band Rush. Lee is the son of two Holocaust survivors, and La Pietra wrote a heartfelt letter inviting him to speak in Charlotte.
Your Legacy, Our Community’s Future
“I am very appreciative of the time and expertise provided by FCJC with the development of my legacy plan. They simplified the process and assisted me in focusing on those charities and causes that had the greatest impacts on our lives. It is my hope that these gifts will allow these organizations to impact future generations.”
Irving Bienstock
For more information, contact Phil Warshauer at (704) 973-4544. www.charlottejewishfoundation.org
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
Assistant Director Katie Cunningham and Director Judy La Pietra of the Greenspon Center with Geddy Lee, lead vocalist of the rock band Rush, at the International Holocaust Remembrance Day event.
Local Social Group for Single Jews Over 45 Continues to Bring Friends Together
By Susan Jensen
The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) conducted a comprehensive survey to assess changes in Jewish engagement following the events of October 7, 2023. The study revealed that 43% of American Jews have sought to engage more deeply in Jewish life since that date. Among those who were previously less involved, nearly 30% are now actively looking for
ways to connect with their Jewish identity and community. This trend is especially strong among those 55 and older, young adults aged 18 to 24, and families with children. The reasons for this renewed interest include a desire for community, support in the face of rising antisemitism, and a strengthened connection to Israel.
Jewish Social Singles of the Carolinas for ages 45+ is a meet-
up group for single Jews over the age of 45 formed three years ago by two members of Temple Solel. Meetup.com is a platform where people can join (for free) and peruse an extensive menu of social groups available in their area. Jewish community life traditionally tends to be oriented toward families and couples. This group was formed because so many older Jewish singles experience some degree of social isolation, especially after undergoing the loss of a spouse or a divorce.
Jewish Social Singles of the Carolinas, now 150 members strong, has seen many new members join since October 7, 2023. The group meets at least monthly to enjoy fun things like attending the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival together and casual coffee and board game get-togethers. Summertime open-air concerts are especially well-attended events, as are dinners at new ethnic restaurants, karaoke nights, and pub trivia nights.
Member Nadine Petrucick
was seeking new social connections after years of being wrapped up in caregiving for her husband and then her mother. She was leery of attending meetups consisting of a large group of strangers, who might have views on Israel that didn’t align with hers. Jewish Social Singles offered small, intimate gatherings of people her age from her Jewish background. Nadine says, “Making new friends helped me get over the disorientation and grief of losing my husband and mother back-to-back. Some of my new friends and I chat almost every day.”
Susan Jensen is a resident of Sun City Carolina Lakes (Fort Mill, S.C.) where most of her neighbors are married and not Jewish. “After the events of October 7, 2023, I began to withdraw from some social groups because of the antisemitism being openly expressed.”
Joining Jewish Social Singles introduced her to new friends with whom she has a lot in common, including friends younger and older than she. “There is a diversity of age and life experience in Jewish Social Singles that’s hard to find in most social groups,” says Susan. “I’m now dear friends with Josh Levy, a fellow physiatrist almost twenty years younger than I am, and I have new friends around my own age (67) and older. This group has been a great source of quality new friends.”
Some romances have blossomed within this low-pressure, friendly group. The original leaders of this meetup group met their life partners in the group and have now passed leadership on to new co-organizers. It’s a “grassroots group,” covering a large area, whose members take turns hosting events in places ranging from Concord, to Uptown Charlotte, Ballantyne, N.C., and Fort Mill, S.C. The group hopes to keep expanding deeper into the Carolinas. Membership is free (the group leaders pay the Meetup fee for the group). If you’d like to join, you can go to: https://www. meetup.com/jewish-social-singles-of-the-carolinas or contact us at jewishsocialsingles@gmail. com.
Jewish Social Singles of the Carolinas enjoying a night out at karaoke
Jewish Social Singles of the Carolinas enjoying a night out at karaoke
Friendship in Action: A Bowling Outing with Friendship Circle
By Nick Perez
The clatter of bowling pins and the cheers of friends filled the air at Friendship Circle’s recent bowling outing. Special Friends and Teen Friends came together for an afternoon of fun, laughter, and camaraderie, proving that meaningful connections can happen anywhere — even at the bowling lanes.
Such community outings are integral to Friendship Circle’s mission of fostering enduring, meaningful friendships between those with special needs and abilities, and typically developing teens. They provide
more than just entertainment; they create a space where these friendships flourish, confidence grows, and inclusion is celebrated. Throughout the night, the bowling lanes were filled with high-fives, cheers of encouragement, and the genuine happiness of being together.
Parents and participants alike recognize the value of these experiences. In the words of one thrilled parent, “Sara enjoyed bowling very much, organized by Friendship Circle. She was super happy to play along with her teen friend. Thanks to all Friendship Circle team members for organizing such a wonderful event!”
This sentiment underscores the profound joy and fulfillment that Friendship Circle’s inclusive activities bring to everyone involved. For many Special Friends socializing can be challenging, so outings in stress-free spaces create an environment for new friendships to blossom. Teen Friends also strengthen their leadership abilities and gain a deeper appreciation for communal values.
Time after time, Friendship
Circle’s work builds bridges where they matter most — our community. Whether working as a team to keep a bowling ball out of the gutter, offering a helping hand with a bowling ramp, or simply cheering each other on from the sidelines, these activities are truly about friendship first and foremost.
As the organization looks ahead to future outings, the
spirit of connection, inclusiveness, and friendship remains at the heart of its mission. In the world of bowling, every roll has the potential for success. Likewise, every Friendship Circle gathering brings a chance to feel
welcome, valued, and, most importantly, connected.
Friendship Circle is a beneficiary agency of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte. To learn more, visit Friendshipcirclenc.org
Participants gather for a spirited group photo at the bowling alley, proudly wearing their “We All Belong” shirts.
My Journey as a Zionist: Attending Jewish National Fund’s Global Conference for Israel as a Club Z Charlotte Leader
By Brielle Stone
I was a little late to the game when I finally joined Club Z as a senior. Most of my peers had already graduated from its program. After October 7, everything changed for me. People who I once considered my friends had turned against me, spouting antisemitic rhetoric and calling for the destruction of Israel. I realized that I couldn’t effectively counter their flawed arguments due to lacking necessary knowledge about the Israel-Palestine conflict.
I needed to do more to support Israel than just tweet posts or post pictures on my Instagram, so when my mom casually mentioned joining a club with the word “Zionism” in it, my ears perked up. To me, “Zionism” isn’t a dirty word like it unfortunately seems to have become for many people on college campuses. To me, Zionism is synonymous with my survival. So, how could I not join Club Z?
In order to “survive,” I needed to arm myself with as much information as possible, more than just Basic Training. Therefore, I
joined Club Z’s advanced Sayeret track, a program designed to transform participants into activists equipped with deep knowledge about Israel and the necessary tools to advocate for it.
When Lena Kosinovsky, the Charlotte chapter’s regional director, announced that the Jewish National Fund (JNF) was offering a limited number of seats for Club Z members at its annual conference in Dallas, I had to sign up. Just seeing the agenda, which included programs about post-October 7 experiences and featured famous guest speakers like Shai Davidai, a Zionist and professor at Columbia University, was enough to put my insecurities aside and solidify my decision to go. These programs gave me the opportunity to put myself out there, meet like-minded people, and build relationships.
The event consisted of a threeday conference that drew an impressive, diverse audience and was divided into three groups: high schoolers, college students, and adults. During the seminars, presenters spoke about various Israel-related topics, such as Colo-
nel Kemp’s discussion about the IDF’s war ethics and an October 7 survivor’s story. However, many of the topics were already familiar to me, thanks to what I had learned in Club Z. For instance, I knew about how and when Israel was created and how to go on the offense to counter misinformation about Israel – including the absurdly false genocide claims related to the war in Gaza. Eager for new perspectives,
my friends and I decided to explore the adult program. We had the opportunity to hear from influential speakers like Shai Davidai and Emily Austin, who discussed online and public activism in depth. They didn’t just talk about defending Israel’s reputation; they shared practical strategies when faced with a situation against the other side. They emphasized the importance of being authentic and staying true to
one’s beliefs no matter what kind of hate comments may come. Feeling both curious and brave, I asked thoughtful questions, and learned how to further my own activism to become a stronger leader for my community, equip myself for the moments when I would confront opposing viewpoints with confidence, such as with people who believe that Israel is stealing land and intentionally killing civilians. I learned to direct questions at our opponents to put them on defense, exposing their inconsistencies and the flawed logic within their arguments.
Being active in Club Z and attending JNF’s conference has prepared me for the challenges I’ll face in college. After witnessing a large anti-Israel protest and listening to many inspiring experts, I strengthened my resolve to stand up for my people and my faith. I left the conference feeling more empowered, confident, and prouder than ever to be Jewish, ready to confront our enemies with the strength of my newfound courage, knowledge, and conviction.
Attending the Global Conference for Israel with the Club Z team and Shai Davidai
Photo by Andy Henderson
Purim at Jewish Preschool on Sardis
By Hiley Davis
With the approach of spring, the Jewish Preschool on Sardis is full of life and laughter. This March, the children are busy preparing for one of their favorite holidays: Purim. There are many Purim-related activities for the kids to participate in from themed puzzles to art and Judaica lessons even before Purim arrives.
The children practice their baking skills while making delicious hamantaschen. In art, they make groggers out of various materials like plastic eggs filled with coins and seeds. The classrooms can get pretty noisy this time of year with everyone showing off the cool and unique groggers they made! Many of the older kids excitedly discuss their Purim costumes with their friends. In previous years, I’ve seen princesses, knights, ninjas, and even a Spider-Man in the halls of JPS on Purim.
In Judaica, the kids are taught the story of Purim and Queen Esther’s bravery to stand up for what was right and protect her people. We hope our students look to Queen Esther as a role model for strength and having pride in their Jewish heritage.
Monday, March 10th 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Assisted
704-496-9310
Thursday, March 13th 2 - 4 p.m. Independent
704-246-8670
Purim parade 2024
Getting ready
Purim parade 2024
Purim Word Search
Finish the drawing. What does Queen Esther look like? What is she wearing? Does she wear a crown?
Any Dreamer Will Do
Across
1. Tefillin spot
4. Thought
8. Fashion figure
13. ___ Fail (palindromic Irish attraction)
14. Homes in the woods
15. Watch brand that’s also a Greek letter
16. Dreamer in the Bible (Var.)
18. Dreamer in the Bible
19. Great-great-grandson of 18-Across 20. Abu Dhabi VIP
22. The white bills in Monopoly
23. Grab for roughly 25. Basic uni. degrees
28. Dreamer in the Bible
30. Dreamer in the Bible
32. “Field of Dreams” setting
34. “Death of a Salesman” director Kazan
35. Dreamer in the Bible
41. Finished 42. Rummage (around)
43. Dreamer in the Bible
46. Dreamer in the Bible
11. Lead-in to centric or maniac
12. Inventor’s place
17. Prefix meaning middle
21. Army rank below col.
23. Milne’s “tubby little cubby”
24. He was assassinated for befriending Menachem
25. Some chassidim
26. Capital of Samoa
27. ___-pei (wrinkly dog)
29. It can be hot or hidden
31. Declares, in slang
33. Bring home a stray
35. Lymph, for one
51. Finish
52. “Torah umada”, e.g.
54. Raison d’___
55. Like 28-Across
56. She was of interest to 16-Across
57. One might appear in a Biblical dream
60. Like one dreaming
63. “Madam Secretary” star Téa
64. Like 35-Across following his feral phase
65. “Blech!”
66. Samwise saves him on Mount Doom
67. Fries to be
68. One (likely over) paid by Steve Cohen
Down
1. Some car rentals
2. ___ Shel Olam
3. Fictional name in stand-up (Jewish) comedy
4. Mid-March day
5. Biden’s st.
6. Cairo to Jerusalem dir.
7. Awry
8. Rum-and-mint drink
9. Sharif of “Funny Girl”
10. Last of an annual dozen: Abbr.
36. Snapchat cofounder Spiegel
37. Turn of a river
38. Filmmaker Zohar who became a Rabbi
39. Area near Manhattan’s Union Sq.
40. TLV info.
44. Estevez of “The Mighty Ducks”
45. Start of many California city names
47. Gather grain
48. Hotel lobby, sometimes
49. Like Syracuse men?
50. Goliath’s was significant
53. Abraham had several
55. Steer, as one’s course
56. What one needs, at first, to 47-Down
57. Alien who lived with the Tanners
58. Part of Chanukah?
59. Melted marshmallows, e.g.
61. Perch for a tyke
62. Doug’s friend LiMu is one
on page 30)
Charlotte Jewish Day School Electives: Woodworking & Podcasts
By Gale Osborne
The opportunity for students to be exposed to an entirely new skill set is a vital component of experiential learning. Rolling out these new experiences under the discriminating eye of a middle school student can be a great challenge, however, creative programming is what Charlotte Jewish Day School (CJDS) does best!
CJDS students in grades 6-8 have embarked on a 12-week woodworking class. Yes, it is a throwback to shop classes in
the 1970s and ‘80s. And yes, the kids are using circular saws, jigsaws, nail guns, and more. More importantly and impressively, they are learning the proper way to use tape measures, layout tools, and protractors to measure angles and determine the right way to make cuts. They are using their knowledge of math and engineering to create their masterpieces!
Dave Gerrard, a woodworking enthusiast and parent of a CJDS graduate, graciously and enthusiastically volunteered
to build a curriculum and lead classes. For their first project, students will create either a toolbox or a storage step stool. After learning about the qualities of a good piece of lumber, they will draw up plans and begin to see their projects take shape. They will measure, cut, sand, and nail. They are learning from mistakes and realizing that learning a new skill may not be easy or right the first time. These middle school woodworkers are focused and understand the path to completion.
In other news, the first CJDS podcast is coming soon! The podcast, called “The Jewtbox,” is written, produced, directed, mixed, and edited by CJDS middle school students. This collaborative podcast features interviews and opinions on the latest books and music! It promises to be an entertaining window into the minds of our middle school students.
You are invited to visit CJDS to see these middle school class electives in action!
For more information about CJDS, email gosborne@cjdschool.org.
SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE TOUR!
Adam Serbin building the shelf for his toolbox
Class instructor Dave Gerrard watching Taliya Waizman using the circular saw to cut wood for her storage /stepping stool
Damien Rouchouze, Ryan Maltz and Charles Kutsak working on their projects
Bal Tashchit and Beyond: Microplastics: Small Particles, Big Problem
By Lisa Shpritz
Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have become a significant environmental concern in recent decades. They originate from two primary sources: primary microplastics, such as microbeads in cosmetics and industrial abrasives, and secondary microplastics, which result from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and fishing nets. These minuscule pollutants are now ubiquitous, contaminating oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air we breathe. The environmental impacts of microplastics are profound and addressing this issue requires a combination of global policy changes, individual actions, and technological innovation.
Where Are Microplastics Found?
Microplastics have been detected in nearly every corner of the planet, from the Arctic ice caps to the deep sea. They are carried by ocean currents, wind, and rivers, enabling them to accumulate in remote and pristine environments. Recent studies have even discovered microplastics in rainwater and human
blood, underscoring the pervasive nature of this pollutant. These tiny particles are not biodegradable and persist in the environment for hundreds of years, continually accumulating and exacerbating the problem.
Microplastics don’t just contaminate land and water—they’re also found in the air. Particles from tire wear, synthetic fibers, and degraded plastics can become airborne, posing potential health risks such as respiratory issues and inflammation.
Microplastic sources include textile fibers shed during washing, tire wear particles from vehicle movement, plastic fragmentation due to sunlight and mechanical stress, and microbeads in cosmetics and industrial cleaners.
The Impacts of Microplastics
- Marine and Aquatic Ecosystems
Microplastics pose a severe threat to marine and freshwater ecosystems. Fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms often mistake microplastics for food. Ingesting these particles can
cause blockages, reduce nutrient absorption, and even lead to starvation. Additionally, microplastics can accumulate up the food chain, affecting larger predators, including humans who consume seafood.
- Human Health
Recently, there has been much discussion about possible adverse human health effects from the ingestion or inhalation of microplastics. While the full extent of their impact on human health is still being studied, potential concerns include physical damage to cells, chemical toxicity from associated pollutants, and
possible links to cancer, reproductive issues, and immune system disruptions.
Reducing the Impact of Microplastics
- Policy and Regulation
Governments play a critical role in mitigating the problem of microplastics. Policies to ban single-use plastics, restrict the use of microbeads in personal care products, and improve waste management systems are essential steps. For example, the European Union has implemented the Single-Use Plastics Directive, while countries like Canada and the U.K. have banned microbe-
ads in cosmetics. Microbeads are often used as exfoliants in products such as face wash, toothpaste, shampoo, and body scrub.
- Innovative Technologies Emerging technologies offer hope in addressing the microplastic crisis. Biodegradable plastics made from plant-based materials, enzymes capable of breaking down plastics, and microplastic capture devices for washing machines are examples of innovative solutions. Investing in research and development can accelerate the deployment of these technologies.
What Can We Do?
We can help reduce microplastics by using less plastic in daily life. Here are some small changes we can all make that will make a big difference:
- Choose natural fibers: Wear clothing made from cotton, wool, silk, bamboo, or other biodegradable materials.
- Minimize plastics in laundry and dishwashing: Use powder detergents for laundry and dishwashing that are packaged in cardboard or aluminum rather than detergents packaged in plastic containers or plastic-containing pods or laundry sheets.
(Continued on page 30)
Shalom Green
(Continued from page 28)
- Make your parties plastic-free: Rather than balloons and other single-use plastic party decorations, use decorations that can be used again, including fabric tablecloths, glass vases, lanterns, and plants.
- Support eco-friendly products: Avoid personal hygiene products and cosmetics with microbeads and purchase products sold in sustainable packaging.
- Switch from disposables: Keep a reusable water bottle,
coffee mug, and cutlery in your backpack, purse, or car.
- Ditch plastic wrap: Try reusable silicone bowl toppers or beeswax wraps to cover food.
- Eliminate plastics in the shower: Use bar shampoo and soap rather than shampoo and body wash packaged in plastic containers.
Clean-Up Efforts
While prevention is the ultimate solution, cleaning up existing microplastic pollution is
also necessary. International initiatives like The Ocean Cleanup aim to remove plastics from rivers and oceans before they break down into microplastics. However, these efforts must be complemented by upstream measures to prevent further pollution.
The Path Forward
Addressing the issue of microplastics requires a collective effort from governments, industries, and individuals. Policies to reduce plastic production, in-
novative technologies for cleanup, and behavioral changes at the consumer level are all essential components of a comprehensive solution.
The microplastic crisis is daunting, but it is not insurmountable. With coordinated efforts and a commitment to sustainable practices, we can mitigate its effects and work toward a cleaner, healthier planet.
Jewish tradition teaches the importance of caring for the environment—we are partners in preserving creation. If you're interested in volunteering with or donating to Shalom Green, visit our website at www.sha-
lomgreenCLT.org or email info@ shalomgreenCLT.org. Connect with us on Facebook at Shalom Green: Shalom Park Environmental Initiative and on Instagram @shalomgreen_CLT.
(Puzzle on page 27)
The Hebrew Cemetery joins with the community in remembering the names of those who have been buried in the cemetery in the month of November, 2024.
Pierette Siesel 8/6/1941 - 12/17/2024
Franki Clement 12/22/1989 - 1/8/2025
Joyce Procia1 1/22/1942 - 1/13/2025
Newspaper archives are a treasure trove of collective memories, providing a snapshot of our history. The following in an excerpt from the article in The Charlotte Jewish News, September, 2015. To read the rest of the article and other issues of The CJN, visit the archives at https://www.digitalnc.org/newspapers/charlottejewish-news-charlotte-nc/.
Looking Back: Year 2015
ZABS Place Looks To Find Hidden Potential
When parents of adults with speeial needs wanted to organize a group home in Charlotte, Rochel Groner had another idea. Rochel is co-director of Friendship Circle, a volunteer based program that advocates on behalf of kids with special needs. With a background in retail, she founded ZABS Place, an upscale thrift boutique and employment training center.
“Our goal is to create a store with a diverse assortment of quality resale merchandise and one-of-a-kind creations, made by local young adults with speeial needs, all at thrift shop prices,” says Rochel.
ZABS Place is named afterZachary Shporer, a 19-yearold Friendship Circle volunteer who passed away from leukemia in Spring 2012. The Friendship Circle is an inspiration of Chabad Lubavitch of Charlotte, NC.
According to the organizers, upon graduating high sehool, adults with speeial needs have a difficult time transitioning from sehool to everyday life. “While most people their age would be going to college or getting a job, it is a more difficult transition for people with special needs,” says Bentzion Groner, co-director of the Friendship Circle. It is even more difficult for parents whose children had a routine sehedule while in school, but now have no way to occupy their time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2012, 69% of typical young adults ages 16-35 were pursuing a college career or held a job. Contrast that with 74.3% of young adults with special needs were living at home and were unemployed or had stopped looking for work. The Groners learned about this issue from many of
the parents who they’ve been in toueh with through Friendship Circle.“We felt that there is so mueh these kids have to offer. They have certain talents and abilities, and are capable of doing things that many others may find diffieult to do,” Bentzion says.
With that idea, they looked for a model and found it in Our Thrift Store in Franklin, TN, a nonprofit that employs individuals with speeial needs. The Groners spent a day there to see how it would work and shortly after they arrived baek, they began to implement their vision. Dave and Sandy Krikae, the founders of the Tennessee thrift shop donated a pickup truck to ZABS Place.
Turning to the community, the idea was embraceed and donations of quality items that people had no use for, but others would, started to pile up. When a space was acquired,
volunteers began sprucing it up and their vision became a reality. Ultimately the goal is to provide steady employment at loeal businesses for these young adults.
The Friendship Circle partnered with Lifespan Services of North Carolina and the Autism Foundation to develop a job training program. “Participants’ skills and talents will be assessed and matched with a customized training program and a paid employment position at the store,” says Rochel Groner. Jobs will include such positions as cashier, display artist, maintenance worker, and sorter. After two years of training, participants will receive a certificate of achievement for the proficiencies they have attained. Volunteers will then turn to local business owners and advocate for them to hire them for a job in their storefront in downtown Mat-
thews, a suburb of Charlotte. Items will be available to purchase in the store or on Ebay. Step over the ZABS Place, at this new store, with select clothing, books, CSs, accessories, suit cases, and everything.
Jonathan Gale, an adult withe special needs and the shop’s spokesman , says, “Start going to ZABS Place. Hurry up now, we are almost ready.”
Pulitzer-Nominated Play at Mint Museum Randolph Has Heartfelt Connection to Our Jewish Community
By Cynthia Farbman Harris
Resilience has always been at the heart of the Jewish experience. It has also been a driving force in my own life—both on and off the stage.
I have been acting in Charlotte for much of my life, performing with the Student Theatre Guild at Theatre Charlotte and as a high school intern with CPCC Summer Theatre. My journey took me to Los Angeles after earning a BFA in Acting/Directing from UNC-Greensboro, but eventually, my path shifted, and I became a lawyer as well. You can guess which profession paid the bills. But my heart never strayed from acting.
When I returned to Charlotte, I found my way back to the stage, performing opera and theatre with many local companies, including Actors Theatre, Queen City Theatre Company, Moving Poets, and Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST).
In 2019, I read “Alabaster” by Audrey Cefaly while preparing for an audition at Actors Theatre Charlotte. The writing was electric, raw, and real—I connected with it immediately. Before the cast could even be announced, Actors Theatre closed its doors. Sadly, this was just one of many theatre companies in Charlotte
that have folded due to lack of funding, loss of performance spaces, and the impact of COVID.
The past several years have been difficult in one way or another for most of us. But for me, as a Jewish woman, the past two years have been devastat -
ing. Like so many in our Jewish family, I have felt as though the world has turned upside-down. The events of October 7, 2023, and the months that followed tested, and continue to test, the very essence of what has always sustained the Jewish people: resilience.
The Stranger: A New Play by Myer Leonard Explores the Shadows of History
By Susan Jensen
Dr. Myer Leonard is a man of many talents. At 87, the retired oral surgeon, world traveler, and lifelong scholar continues to challenge audiences with thought-provoking storytelling. Born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Dr. Leonard spent decades practicing in Minnesota, where he also taught at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. A true intellectual omnivore, he has lectured on diverse topics across six continents. After retiring in 2001, he dedicated a decade to disaster relief with Nechama.org, a Minneapolis-based organization offering a Jewish response to global crises.
Since settling in Sun City Carolina Lakes in 2007, Myer and his wife, Pat, have been active members of Chabad Ballantyne. In addition to his many pursuits, Dr. Leonard has written three plays — each one probing the murky depths of ethics, compelling audiences to examine the fragile boundary between right and wrong.
His latest work, "The Stranger," was inspired by a chance
encounter recounted in a lecture by Professor G. Spanier. In 2023, Dr. Leonard attended Spanier’s talk, where the professor shared a story: a young German couple had joined his taxi ride and, through casual conversation, discovered an unexpected connection to his own family. This moment sparked an idea, and "The Stranger" was born — a play about a German couple whose seemingly ordinary meeting with the descendants of Holocaust survivors forces them to confront the origins of their valuable art collection.
"The Stranger" asks unsettling questions: What happens when a family’s fortune is built on theft? What obligations do the descendants of perpetrators have toward the victims’ families? The play delves into intergenerational reckoning, as young Germans today begin to scrutinize the silence of their grandparents and great-grandparents about the Holocaust-era plundering of Jewish homes and businesses.
The narrative is framed around a wealthy couple traveling far from home, who,
through a seemingly coincidental meeting, come face-to-face with a past they never expected to claim as their own. Was this encounter random, an act of fate, or a carefully orchestrated moment of truth?
Attend the Premiere Staged Reading
Charlotte-area audiences will have a unique opportunity to experience "The Stranger" at a special staged reading:
Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Time: 2:15 p.m.
Location: Museum of the Waxhaws, 8215 Waxhaw Hwy, Waxhaw, NC 28173
A wine and cheese reception will follow the one-hour performance.
Admission is free, but seating is limited to 56 guests. To reserve your spot, please contact Myer Leonard at (803) 547-1250 — only a few seats remain!
Don't miss this gripping new work that explores history’s shadows and the moral dilemmas that still shape our world today.
all-female darkly comic Southern drama and winner of the Calicchio Prize. After a tornado barrels through town, leaving nothing but death and destruction, only June and her sassy pet goat Weezy and Weezy’s mother Bib live to tell the tale. When a prominent photographer visits to take pictures of June's scars, all are forced to a flashpoint of electric confrontation and recovery.
CAST’s production of “Alabaster” delivers electric acting, vivid soundscapes, and enveloping lighting, all in an immersive theatre-in-the-round. It is an irreverent, inspirational exploration of love, art, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Where: Mint Museum - 2730 Randolph Road, Charlotte - Van Every Theatre
When: Feb. 27-March 16, 2025
Times: Thu, Fri, Sat Evenings: 7:30 p.m.; Sat, Sun Matinee: 2:30 p.m. (2 hours w/Intermission)
I knew I had to do something. I could help bring back a company that was dear to my heart— Carolina Actors Studio Theatre
For Tickets and more information: Visit https://nccast. net. Tickets may be purchased in advance from the CAST web
Celebrating Jewish Life since 1979. Please support the Charlotte Jewish News by making a secure online contribution using the QR code.
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Zoe Matney (as JUNE) – Cynthia Farbman Harris (as Alice) June and Alice in a heart felt moment.
From Shabbat to Shenanigans: “Bad Shabbos” Brings Big Laughs to Charlotte!
Feb. 26, 2025
Opening night of the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival was filled with non-stop laughter as the fast-paced comedy “Bad Shabbos” played to a sold-out crowd. Now, Menemsha Films is bringing this award-winning hit back to Charlotte for a theatrical run at The Independent Picture House from March 4-13. If you missed it at the festival or simply need a good, hearty laugh, this is your chance to catch “Bad Shabbos” on the big screen!
“Bad Shabbos” follows an engaged interfaith couple, David and Meg, who are a bit tense as their families are about to meet for the first time over a traditional Shabbat dinner at David’s parents’ home on New York’s Upper West Side. What should have been an evening of warm introductions takes a wildly unexpected turn when a harmless prank goes awry, leading to the shocking discovery of a dead body just before Meg’s devout Catholic parents are expected to arrive.
This uproarious dark comedy is packed with unpredictable twists, razor-sharp humor, and nonstop laughs. Leading the stellar ensemble cast are Kyra Sedgwick and Cliff “Method Man” Smith, joined by David
Paymer, Milana Vayntrub, Jon Bass, Meghan Leathers, Theo Taplitz, Catherine Curtin, John Bedford Lloyd, and Ashley Zukerman, with a special cameo by Josh Mostel.
Co-written by Daniel Robbins and Zack Weiner, “Bad Shabbos” was inspired by
an idea from producer Adam Mitchell. Robbins shares, “At the Weiner family Shabbat dinners, there are often new guests, and the matriarch loves playing pranks on unsuspecting diners.” Building on that tradition, Mitchell imagined the ultimate comedic disaster — what if one
of those pranks went horribly wrong, leading to an unexpected death and turning a Shabbat dinner into total chaos?
Director and co-writer Daniel Robbins took inspiration from beloved comedies like “Meet the Parents” and “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” crafting “Bad
Shabbos” with the same blend of humor and heartfelt chaos. The film’s universal themes and sharp comedic timing have struck a chord with audiences of all backgrounds, earning it Audience Awards at prestigious festivals such as Tribeca, Palm Springs, and Boston.
In addition to “Bad Shabbos” opening the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival, Menemsha Films also provided the festival’s closing night feature, “Midas Man,” which tells the story of Brian Epstein and his role in catapulting The Beatles to fame.
Founded in 1998 by Neil Friedman, Menemsha Films is committed to distributing top-tier arthouse cinema, carefully selecting exceptional films from around the world. The company has a remarkable track record, having discovered and represented five consecutive Academy Award nominees over five years.
The Independent Picture House is located at 4237 Raleigh St, Charlotte, NC 28213. Tickets are now available online at https://independentpicturehouse.org/
“Bad Shabbos” comes to The Independent Picture House,, March 4-13
Watch: Menemsha Films: Bad Shabbos - Filmmakers on WPEC-CBS West Palm 12/13/24
Watch: Bad Shabbos official trailer
Want to see the power of community in action? Our impact is made possible by the strength of our Jewish community. Explore how Federation uplifts and strengthens Jewish lives every day in our Report to the Community—now available online at jewishcharlotte.org or in print for pickup.
