Page 2 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Local News
January 14, 2016 6 p.m. Mancy's Italian Grill 5453 Monroe St. $36 includes a demonstration of a popular Mancy's Italian vegetarian dish and dinner buffet A portion of the proceeds will go to breast cancer research No solicitation Each woman will receive a gift bag RSVP to Wendy Goldstein at 419.724.0360 by January 5 A special evening exclusively for women currently at a giving level of $1,000 or more to the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Campaign
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 3
Toledo Jewish News
Dear Jewish Toledo A note from your CEO
Volume 64 No. 3 • 28 pages
Hanukkah is my favorite festival. Partly because I love donuts, but also because of the meanings and the symbols we use; and it lasts for eight days! I also enjoy the annual debate about how you even spell Hanukkah. Is it Chanukah or Hanukkah? I think this debate is a perfect symbolism of the Jewish community. We interpret things differently, however we are all honoring and celebrating the same festivals and traditions, just in our own way.
(ISSN 0040-9081) Toledo Jewish News is published 11 times per year, by Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, 6465 Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, Ohio 43560. Toledo Jewish News invites correspondence on subjects of interest to the Jewish community, but disclaims responsibility for any endorsement of the views expressed by the writers. All submissions become the property of Toledo Jewish News. Submissions will be edited for accuracy, brevity and clarity and are subject to verification. Toledo Jewish News reserves the right to refuse any submissions. Toledo Jewish News does not guarantee the kashrut of any of its advertisers.
Phone: 419-724-0363 Fax: 419-885-3207 e-mail: abby@JewishToledo.org EDITOR Paul Causman
I look forward to celebrating together as a community at our annual Hanukkah Palooza party. On Sunday December 13 at 11:30 a.m. at Congregation B’nai Israel we will be having a giant glow/neon dance party with great food and amazing activities for the family. Please contact hallie@JewishToledo.org or see the front page of this issue for more information. A huge thank you to Dawn Goldstein and Stephanie Shaulskiy for helping to organize this year’s Hanukkah Palooza.
Joel Marcovitch, CEO
This month at the Federation is the busiest month of the year. We close our Annual Campaign on December 31. I want to thank all those who have donated to the 2015 Annual Campaign and everyone who helped support the Federation in enhancing the health, welfare, education, spiritual life, unity and continuity of the Jewish community of Toledo, the surrounding areas and Klal Yisrael, the world community of Israel. If you haven’t already and would like to support the Jewish Family Service Food Pantry, Jewish education, senior services, Hillel and so many more worthwhile causes, please consider making a gift to the Federations Annual Campaign. One gift turns into countless possibilities. On behalf of the entire Federation staff and Board, we wish you a very happy Chanukah/Hanukkah. Warm regards,
Joel Marcovitch
STAFF EDITOR/REPORTER Abby Hoicowitz ART DIRECTOR Paul Causman EDITORIAL DEADLINE 10th of each month
Jewish Federation 2015-16 SAVE THE of Greater Toledo DATE CALENDAR
Editorial copy by email to abby@JewishToledo.org or on disc to 6465 Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, Ohio 43560 ADVERTISING DEADLINE: 15th of each month Advertising inquiries should be addressed to: 6465 Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, Ohio 43560 419-724-0363 POSTMASTER: Please send address corrections to: 6465 Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, Ohio 43560 Entered as Periodicals at the post office at Toledo, Ohio, under act of March 3, 1987. Periodicals U.S. Postage Paid at Sylvania, Ohio. SUBSCRIPTION RATE: $36 PER YEAR
DATE EVENT
DEPARTMENT
December 10 December 13 December 18
Annual Latke Luncheon Hanukkah Palooza YJT Fridays: Location TBD
Seniors Department of Jewish Programs Department of Jewish Programs
*January 14 January 14 *January 15
Mobile Meals' Lunch and Learn Women's Night Out with the Chef at Mancy's Italian PJ Library® Tot Shabbat Playdate
Seniors Campaign Department of Jewish Programs
*February 11 *February 18 *February 20 *February 24
A Healthy Start Health Fair Young People's Concert/Lunch out YJT & Gan Yeladim Parents' Night Out The Odd Couple and Lunch out
Seniors Seniors Department of Jewish Programs Seniors
Dates are subject to change. Events will be added monthly as information becomes available.
* Newly added or revised event Toledo Jewish News accepts ads, artwork and all editorial copy by disc or e-mail only, at abby@JewishToledo.org. Photographs and discs may also be dropped off at the Toledo Jewish News office. Thank
Hallie Freed, Program Director, Department of Jewish Programs 419-724-0362 | hallie@JewishToledo.org Wendy Goldstein, Director, Campaign 419-724-0360 | wendy@JewishToledo.org
René Rusgo, Director, and Emily Harel, Program Associate Senior Services and Senior Adult Center 419-531-2119 | rene@JewishToledo.org
you for your cooperation.
ATTENTION SNOWBIRDS! Make your contribution to the Annual Campaign online at www.JewishToledo.org
Traveling for the 2015-16 winter season? Please keep us informed of your current address, so we can keep you updated on all the upcoming, exciting programs just for you! Contact Barb Hager at 419-724-0357 or barb@JewishToledo.org with your new address.
SUPPORTED BY
Jewish Federation & Foundation YOUR CAMPAIGN AND LEGACY GIFTS AT WORK
Page 4 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Federation and Foundation assist local synagogues with Religious School funding The value of a Jewish education is immeasurable for our children in Jewish Toledo.
Therefore, through yearly funding, Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo (JFGT) and
Thank you to all our donors who have given to the 2015 annual campaign; your support helps so many in our community.
the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation (TJCF) aim to assist local synagogues in funding their Religious Schools and providing the crucial foundation for the intellectual, spiritual and social growth of our youth. In the last three years (beginning with the 2012/13 school year), Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation have each given 50% of a total of $57,869 to Congregation B’nai Israel, $54,370 to Congregation Etz Chayim and $96,725 to Temple Shomer Emunim. “The Federation and Foundation have invested over $200,000 in the past three years to help support the local congregational Religious Schools,” said Joel Marcovitch, CEO. “Jewish education is an essential component of the Federation’s mission. We are proud to put this core value to action. The power of your gift to the Federation’s Annual Campaign makes this staple of our community a reality.” Toledo Jewish News recently contacted each synagogue’s clergy and board president to ask them to comment on the significance of the Federation’s gift to each of their Religious School programs. Congregation B’nai Israel "Congregation B'nai Israel is deeply grateful for Federation's support of our David S. Stone Religious School,” said Cantor Ivor Lichterman. “This support assists us greatly in providing an excellent Jewish education for our students. “Ideally, Jewish education should be free so that young families don't have to choose between financial priorities and do not feel that providing a Jewish education is a
financial burden. But, because it takes funding to provide a superior Jewish education, Federation's support is vital for maintaining our standards and the services our religious school provides." Jeff Bauer, President, Congregation B'nai Israel, added, “Through the leadership and financial support of Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, our Religious School has effectively collaborated with our sister synagogues to bring our students together for engaging programs both inside and outside of our community. Our teachers have access to modern printed and video materials to engage our students Jewishly." Congregation Etz Chayim Rabbi Evan B. Rubin noted, "Historically, the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo has always been at the forefront of supporting communal Jewish education. Currently, that goal is realized through the support provided for the synagogue Religious Schools." Dan Becker, President, Congregation Etz Chayim, stated, “Having the support from Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo for Religious School education provides Etz Chayim and the other Toledo synagogues with greater resources to attract larger numbers of Jewish students.” Temple Shomer Emunim In a joint statement submitted from the Temple Shomer Emunim clergy and board, the synagogue said, “One of the Temple’s main missions is to teach our children about Judaism – both the religious and cultural aspects according to the Reform tradition. We appreciate the Federation’s contribution to our students’ education.”
Please contact Wendy Goldstein, Campaign Director, at 419-724-0360 or wendy@jewishtoledo.org. Thank you.
If you have not yet given to the 2015 campaign, there is still time.
CAMPAIGN 2015 IS COMING TO A CLOSE But there is still time to donate! How to contribute: • Call Chris Ullom at 419-724-0366 or email her at chris@JewishToledo.org • Donate or pay by mail by sending your pledge cards and payments to: Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, Attention: Chris Ullom, 6465 Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, Ohio 43560. Please note that checks need to be post-marked by December 31, 2015 for a 2015 tax deduction. • For online donations, please visit: www.JewishToledo.org Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Policy Statement Regarding Donations of Stock Stock Payments Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo is happy to accept donations of stock as payment for pledges made to the Annual Campaign. Stock gifts need to be received by 12 p.m. (noon) on December 31, 2015 in order to sell before the market closes. It should be noted that our procedure is as follows for accepting stock: Whenever a gift of stock is made, the donor receives a confirmation in writing
that the gift was made on that date. Normally upon consultation with financial professionals, this is the date used when valuing the gift for IRS tax purposes. After being notified that a gift of stock has been made, either from the donor or a stockbroker, the stock will then transfer into the Federation’s account and Federation will sell the stock. The net proceeds of the sale of stock will be applied against any outstanding pledges for the individual. The donor will be notified, in writing, what the net proceeds were. To expedite this process, it is extremely helpful if the donor, his/her stockbroker or financial advisor notifies Federation's Department of Finance verbally or through email when a gift of stock is made. By following this procedure, the timing between the gift being made and the sale of the stock is greatly reduced. Please contact Tina Stieben, CFO, at tina@JewishToledo.org or 419-7240371 for further assistance. Credit Card & Check Payment Deadlines Credit card payment information must be received at Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo by Monday, December 28, 2015 for 2015 tax purposes. Payments by check need only be postmarked December 31, 2015 for 2015tax purposes, or you can make payments online at www.JewishToledo.org by midnight on December 31, 2015.
A commitment is not a gift until it is fulfilled.
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 5
Toledo Jewish Community Foundation COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR GREATER TOLEDO AREA STUDENTS
College Scholarships are available to Jewish students from the Greater contact Arleen R. Levine at 419-724-0355 or arleen@JewishToledo.org or Toledo area. Scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership and Deb Damschroder at 419-724-0405 or deb@JewishToledo.org. involvement in the Toledo Jewish community. Demonstration of financial See your upcoming December issue of Toledo Jewish News for more details need is an important consideration as well. For more information, please on all college scholarships available for greater Toledo area students.
Dowd, Esq. discusses "Who Should Profit from the Holocaust?" “Who Should Profit from The Holocaust? Legal Controversies Over Nazi Art Looting” was the topic of this year’s David S. Stone Law Lecture, which featured a presentation by Raymond Dowd, Esq. of Dunnington, Bartholow & Miller, LLP. Mr. Dowd, Esq. delivered his remarks at The University of Toledo College of Law in late October at both a noon presentation to students and faculty and later in the evening to a community audience. The David S. Stone Law Lecture Fund was established in 2001 in the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation through the generosity of the David S. Stone Foundation. The mission of the fund is to provide for an educational program in Jewish law or ethics. The late David S. Stone was born in Toledo and was a member of Congregation B’nai Israel. He and his brother, Archie, were involved in numerous real estate development projects in Toledo, among them Kenwood Gardens and Larchmont Gardens. David S. Stone later moved to Washington, D.C. but maintained a strong connection to the Toledo Jewish community. He passed away at a young age in 1984, leaving a significant trust to support charitable needs in Washington, D.C. as well as Toledo. His charitable gifts in Toledo led to the establishment of a fund dedicated to Jewish law, Congregation B’nai Israel, Communal Needs Fund and the former David S. Stone Hebrew Academy of Toledo. For more information about the David S. Stone Law Lecture Fund, contact Arleen Levine, Toledo Jewish Community Foundation Director, at 419-724-0355 or arleen@ JewishToledo.org The evening presentation was preceded by a Federation Cardozo Society event, one of many planned for the upcoming year. For more information concerning the Cardozo Society, please contact Wendy Goldstein, Campaign Director, at 419-724-0360 or wendy@JewishToledo.org.
Scott Rothstein, Tom Helberg and Bennet Miller
Ray J. Dowd, Esq. and Jerome Phillips
Stuart Goldberg and Wendy Goldstein, Campaign Director
Arleen Levine, Foundation Director and Ray J. Dowd, Esq.
Judge Connie Zemmelman
Maurine Glasser, Judge George Glasser and Dean Ben Barros
Joanne Rubin and Rabbi Alan Sokobin
One gift. Countless benefits. JewishToledo.org
Page 6 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Jewish Family Service Your tribute contributions fund JFS Financial Assistance program Do you ever stop to think about how your tribute contribution is used by the receiving agency or organization? Does it help pay the staff? Is it used to buy coffee for the office? What really does happen to the money that you lovingly send to an agency in memory of someone or in honor of an individual or a special occasion? It is important for you to know that tribute contributions sent to Jewish Family Service (JFS) fund the Financial Assistance program and are the ONLY source of revenue for it. Financial assistance in the form of interest-free loans and outright grants is available only to Jewish individuals and families who experience emergency situations due to unemployment or underemployment, health-related expenses not covered by insurance, mental health issues, unexpected expenses (such as car/home repairs), etc. This alleviates the additional burden of paying the extra expense of high finance charges for loans obtained elsewhere. The Financial Assistance program is truly a safety-net service through which clients know that they can receive confidential, appropriate assistance that will best suit their needs. Other agencies run out of money from time to time for rent and utility assistance and are not able to provide the necessary aid. Some people have nowhere
else to turn to but the Jewish community, which understands the need in, and value of supporting the program. You ensure that there are sufficient funds to assist Jews who find themselves in emergency situations by making tribute contributions to JFS. When it comes to sending contributions, JFS has a win-win plan. It’s called the Lump Sum Contribution. A $100 check entitles you to 12 “anytime” contributions. That’s 12 gifts (at $10 per acknowledgement) for the price of 10! Once paid, you only need notify us each time you wish to send a contribution. We’ll contact you when your lump sum contribution is about to run out. All “Lump Sum” and individual tributes fund the JFS Financial Assistance program. Help us support those in need, plus save some time and money to boot. Contact JFS at 419-724-0401 to set up your account or email Patty Paczkowski, Administrative Assistant, at patty@jewishtoledo.org. All tributes must include your name and address, the name of the person being remembered, the name and address to whom the acknowledgement should be sent and the occasion being recognized. Payment in the form of either a check or credit card must accompany each tribute. Help someone in need while acknowledging an important event. Everyone benefits!
SAVE THE DATE The Toledo Jewish community will celebrate JEWISH DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH
Sunday, February 28 Featuring guest speaker, Rabbi Michael Ungar
JFS CAN LOWER YOUR COST OF IN-HOME CARE* Being discharged from the hospital or rehab? Household chores too much for you to handle? Don’t want to worry about the liability with hiring a private individual?
In-home care through JFS is your answer! Jewish Family Service is your connection to affordable, quality care providers. Contact Deb Damschroder, LSW, 419-724-0405 *Subsidy available for up to 14 hours per week to those who qualify
MUSIC & MEMORY now available Jewish Family Service is very excited about our new Music & Memory program. Individuals within our Jewish community have signed up and are finding great pleasure in listening to their favorite songs. Our goal is to connect more people to this experience. Here are a few ways you can help: Collect and donate brand new or gently used iPods of any type along with their corresponding cables and adapters. Donate CDs of Big Band/
Swing, pop, 50s/60s and jazz music to expand our music library. A donation of iTunes gift cards will allow us to purchase specifically requested music that we do not obtain from donations. For more information, please contact Barbara Levison at 419-724-0407.
The Jewish Family Service Senior Adult Center has embarked on a voluntary organizational analysis with Brown Consulting. Our goal is to be able to further enhance our center by finding newer and better ways to meet your needs.
Therefore, your feedback about the Senior Adult Center is critical to the future direction of senior programs and activities. If the consultants contact you for comments and suggestions or you receive a survey to complete, please provide your thoughtful and honest responses. If you are not contacted but would like to provide your comments and suggestions, please request a survey from René Rusgo at 419-531-2119 #2 or rene@JewishToledo.org.
Your participation is encouraged, and your voice will be heard. Thank you for your support!
Senior News Free services and events at the
TOP 10 JFS SENIOR ADULT CENTER FACTS: 1 The JFS Senior Adult center is open to anyone 60 and older 2 The JFS Senior Adult Center offers wonderful classes at NO CHARGE to participants 3 Transportation services for grocery store and banks are FREE 4 Outings include mystery lunches, day trips and much more 5 Wellness checks are provided weekly – FREE 6 Informative presenters speak regularly 7 Laughter is contagious 8 Assistance is available for Golden Buckeye Card applications 9 Community is a focal point 10
Participants meet, mix and mingle regularly
Mondays Wellness Checks 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Have a registered nurse from Senior Independence help you keep your blood pressure and sugar under control with a FREE weekly check! Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays Prime Movers 11 a.m. – Noon Prime Movers is a basic all around strength and movement class. A mix of cardio, strength and flexibility. All levels welcome. Walk-ins welcome. Mondays Drumming 1 – 2 p.m. Any fitness level, anyone can do this! Come give it a try and be your own rock star! Tuesdays (dates and explanations below) Craft Time 1 – 2:30 p.m. Come create, socialize and have fun in a no judgement zone. All skill levels are welcome. Please call or sign up in the lobby one week before the event, and please arrive promptly at 1 p.m. for instructions! Tuesday December 1: Needle Felt or Snowflakes For this newer kind of craft, also known as “dry felting," we will be making lovely pieces of art with felt and wool and a needle. Join us as we try this new technique in crafting! As an alternative craft, if you choose, we will also be making large beautiful snowflakes as decorations! Tuesday December 15: Glove Snowmen Join us in making these adorable snowmen from fluff and gloves! These guys are fun to make and will be great to have around your home this season. Wednesdays Balance Class 1 – 2 p.m. Take your workout to the next level and focus on your core and balance. Wednesdays Art Class 2 -4 p.m. From sketching to oils to water colors you’re in charge of your project. No assignments. Work with the instructor to create a one of a kind piece of work. Fridays Poker Group 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. Poker players needed! Nickel and dime games. To use any of the above services, just fill out a simple and quick Client Registration Form. To learn more about the JFS Senior Adult Center, call 419-531-2119 or visit JewishToledo.org. The JFS Senior Adult Center is supported by the Area Office on Aging, the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and Jewish Seniors Services Supporting Organization.
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 7
Page 8 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Senior News The Senior Adult Center and Senior Adult Programs of the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo are open to all who are 60 years old and above and are supported in part through your campaign dollars and through a generous grant from the Jewish Senior Services Supporting Organization. All events are part of the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and occasionally take place at the various synagogues. Please note registration deadlines for all programs! To register for a Jewish Federation Senior Program, please call 419-531-2119 #2 or email registration@jewishtoledo.org. For questions about a program, please call René Rusgo at 419-531-2119 #1 or rene@JewishToledo.org THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 Annual Latke Luncheon
Noon Congregation B’nai Israel, 6525 Sylvania Avenue $5 per person, includes lunch and entertainment by Frank & Dean Celebrate the festival of lights together with a celebratory Hanukkah lunch and wonderful entertainment, a not to be missed event! Back in Toledo again will be the famous duo of “Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.” Sit back, relax and enjoy the wonderful music. Registration and payment requested by Monday, November 30. THURSDAY, JANUARY 14 Mobile Meals’ Lunch and Learn Noon - Lunch JFS Senior Adult Center-Weinman Community Room, 2700 Pelham Road Free Mobile Meals is starting a monthly Lunch and Learn program for senior housing and senior centers. There is no charge for the Lunch and Learn. Topics will include: the Mobile Meals service, how to get signed up, pricing and other programs that are offered. There will be a question and answer session following lunch. A brief video will be shown and Bingo will be played afterwards for prizes! All are welcome! Registration is required by Friday, January 8
Did you know ... you can view and read the JFS Senior Adult Center Newsletter online? Just go to the www.jewishtoledo.org website and click on "Seniors" to find a link for the current issue.
SAVE THE DATE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 A Healthy Start Health Fair JFS Senior Adult Center-Weinman Community Room, 2700 Pelham Road 10 a.m. – Noon Free – open to the entire community A healthy start health fair with big benefits! Come get your blood and sugar checked, a quick memory test, facts about falls, balance assessments, Dexa bone scans, fire safety information, Medicare updates, an “ask the lawyer” segment, goody bags for all who attend and so much more! THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Young People’s Concert by Toledo Symphony Orchestra – The Golden Disc/Lunch Out 10:15 a.m.: Depart Senior Center - if you need transportation, tell us when you register 11 a.m.: Concert Begins Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle/Spaghetti Warehouse You may register to attend the concert and meet us at the Peristyle/Spaghetti Warehouse Concert is free /Lunch is on your own Journey to interstellar space and beyond with the music inspired by the Golden Disc of NASA’s Voyager Spacecraft – a time capsule of images, sounds and music sent into space to teach of life on Earth. This program explains how the instruments of the orchestra make their unique sounds and explores how composers use those sounds to create one of the most beautiful genres of music known to mankind. Registration requested by Monday, February 8
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 The Odd Couple by Neil Simon at Purple Rose Theatre, Chelsea, Michigan Late Lunch at Common Grill, Chelsea, Michigan Noon: Depart Federation Campus, 6465 Sylvania Avenue 3 p.m.: Matinee Show 7 p.m. (estimated): Return to Federation $45 per person (includes transportation, lunch, and theatre ticket) Two suddenly single pals — a sloppy sportswriter and a neat freak news writer — strain their friendship by turning roommates, but patterns of their own disastrous marriages begin to reappear with hilarious results.
MISC: To help us better plan for our programs and events, we ask that you make payment at the time of your registration. No confirmations will be mailed, your credit card charge or canceled check will serve as your confirmation! Please fill out an Emergency Contact Form if you will be traveling with us and have not done so.
Y♥ung at Heart
FRIENDS EDUCATION
CRAFTS
FUN
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 9
Local News Jewish Community Relations Council update By Sharon Lapitsky, Director, Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) This new section of Toledo Jewish News is designed to offer a glimpse into the Federation’s Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) activities – past, present and future. The JCRC committee is built of seven volunteers (Scott Rothstein, Thomas Klein, Joanne Rubin, Devorah Shulamit, Rob Vincent, Sue Ann Hochberg and Bruce Post) who regularly collaborate to make decisions, brainstorm ideas and address community issues as they rise. In the last few months, the committee was able to create a coalition with members of the Toledo African American community. The purpose of this coalition is to develop opportunities for collaboration and support each other’s needs. Recently, Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo (JFGT) CEO, Joel Marcovitch, volunteered to spent the afternoon in East Toledo, where he taught young men how to tie neckties as part of a “Dress for Success” program. Currently, our coalition is working on addressing the Jewish community’s concerns and needs with the recently elected Mayor Paula Hicks-Hudson. Prior to the mayoral elections, Joel Marcovitch, Joel Beren and I had the opportunity to meet with Mayor Hicks-Hudson and discuss issues important to the Jewish Toledo community. Among other topics discussed, we had the opportunity to educate the Mayor of the BDS movement and its implications. After going to Pittsburgh and meeting with John Block, publisher of The Blade, Joel Marcovitch, Joel Beren, Jerry Chabler
Hire HILLEL Here
Interfaith Amigos and I followed up with local editors. We recently met with The Blade’s Kurt Franck, Executive Editor; David Murray, Managing Editor; and TK Brager, Religion Editor. The purpose of the meetings was to inform the journalists about different events the Jewish community in Toledo is involved with and to share our frustration with The Blade’s reports on recent events in Israel. We offered our expertise and services regarding facts about Israel. They recognized and understood, and we look forward to a positive future working together. We are following up in the next few months with more editorial staff. More recently, I attended the annual Jewish-Muslim-Christian Dialogue at which the Interfaith Amigos presented a workshop. JCRC committee member, Bruce Post, met with the Amigos prior to the workshop and discussed Jewish life in Toledo with them. The Amigos teach love, friendship and support between the faiths and created an opportunity for all participants to interact with members of different religions while sharing some personal experiences. It was a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
WANTED:
Poker players to join the game! Men or women welcome Fridays 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. JFS Senior Adult Center, 2700 Pelham Road Questions? Call René Rusgo 419-531-2119 #1
featuring Kristin Leuchtag, The University of Toledo
"Hire Hillel Here" is a new feature in Toledo Jewish News designed to highlight a different Toledo Hillel senior in each monthly edition. Upcoming graduates of The University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University have taken the time to share a little bit about themselves and their future goals so you, Jewish Toledo, can get involved and do what you can to help keep our brilliant minds here in the Toledo area for many years to come. To contact a Hillel student, please contact Elizabeth Lane at 419-724-0364 or elizabeth@JewishToledo.org. To find out more about how you can help keep our young college graduates in Toledo, contact Joel Marcovitch at 419-724-0372 or joel@JewishToledo.org. Toledo Jewish News: What factors led to your decision to join Hillel at The University of Toledo (UT)? Kristin Leuchtag: I wanted to be a part of a bigger Jewish community than what I had growing up. I have really discovered my Jewish identity over the past four years! TJN: Can you describe some of the most valuable experiences you have had with Hillel at UT? KL: I always go glass blowing and have loved it every year. It’s my favorite thing, because I get to make something beautiful. TJN: What is your major, and what are some of your goals for after graduation? KL: I’m majoring in Public Health and applying to law school this spring. My current goal is going to be an internship in Israel this summer for two months!
Page 10 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Local/International News Local high school students prepare for mission to Israel Editor's note: This month, six Jewish Toledo high school students plan to travel to Israel as part of the PARTNERSHIP2GETHER Mega Teen Mission. These American teens will experience teen life in Israel, gaining memorable experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime. The Western Galilee is known as a microcosm of Israeli society, not only because of the diverse culture and people (Jews, Muslims, ChrisBy Fagie Benstein So who’s excited? I am! Why? There are days when one is reluctant to turn on the news, and there are days with no shortage of concerns and fears for the future. My world is very different from my parents’, and theirs was most certainly different from my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and great grandparents who, because of the Shoah (Holocaust), I never had the joy and privilege of knowing. Without a doubt, this generation, their world, their challenges and their experiences were completely different from their parents, and so it goes. One of the criteria for going on this mission was to meet with me for an Israel orientation and discussions. Last month, the first of those meetings took place in our living room. The teens came wide-eyed with eager enthusiasm and maps of Israel, discussing why Israel needs an army, why she has to defend herself, the rules and values of war and where those ethics come from (Torah). With Snickers, caramel corn and fruit in reach, the following 90 minutes were amazing. In addition to the information I presented and the constant discussion, I learned the following: Each and every teen, without exception, had a good base of knowledge. One in particular had exceptional knowledge. They were all very much aware of the bias often reflected by the mainstream press. All wish they had more knowledge and information to rebuke. All could not imagine a time without the State of Israel. All are enormously grateful to our Federation for the generosity enabling this fantastic opportunity. Perhaps, most touching, By Macey Feldstein In the summer of 2011, I traveled to Israel with my father along with the Toledo Rockets Women’s Basketball Team. We toured many popular spots of Israel: the Masada, the Dead Sea, Baha’i Temple Gardens in Haifa, the Western Wall, Tent City in Tel Aviv and more. As a seventh grader, I was very into basketball and had just been bat mitzvah’d. So, travelling to Israel with the women’s basketball team was a dream come true. I had the opportunity to learn about my heritage and religion with some of the coolest people I had looked up to. Going to Israel with the Partnership will be another great opportunity I really look forward to. I’m very excited to be travelling to Israel again to learn more about the beautiful country and my religion. I'm also very excited to meet people my age and to learn their lifestyle and the lifestyle of many Israelis as I take on this journey with the Partnership.
tians and Druze), but also for its rich history. In addition to providing personal growth and exploration, this mission aims to help the students develop as a leader and an advocate for Israel. Following are articles written by the students about their excitment and expectations as they prepare for this trip of a lifetime. Toledo Jewish News will follow up with them upon their return as well.
was when I was able to identify their great grandparents and grandparents who tirelessly devoted themselves to our Federation and their respective congregations, giving and doing all that they could (and then some) to support the recreation of the modern State of Israel. They immediately
understood the legacy that is now theirs; it is now very much about them. Is there any question why René Rusgo, their mission chaperone and my partner, feel such pride in these young people? Of course, this is just one experience, one of many we hope will continue to empower
them with a sense of their own pride and commitment as well as devotion to their own Jewish identity, to the people and the land of Israel and to Klal Yisrael. For all of the above, and so much more, I am excited and ever positive in the next generation.
By Libby Morse
By Benjamin Morse
By Julian Liber
Our Israel trip is one month away, and as I sit in study hall typing my article, I find the words spilling onto the page. Instead of writing a paper on voodoo economics or the Reagan administration, I am required to type an article including my thoughts on the upcoming trip of a lifetime. In order to contain my excitement within 500 words or less, I must channel my inner travel blogger. I have witnessed entire trips summed up in 140 characters and months away from home bunched up into a single photo. My Israel trip will not be worthy of a simple Instagram post or a tidbit of information on my Tumblr. On my nightstand rests a copy of the bestselling novel, Eat, Pray Love. It is filled with the stories of one woman’s travels through three different countries and her visions of both self-discovery and religion. When traveling to Israel, I long for my very own eat (and most importantly) pray, love story. I will eat the authentic cuisine of the Middle East with my fellow trip members. I will pray at the Western Wall surrounded by citizens of my homeland. I will love every moment my body is in the spiritual country of Israel. At such a young age it is a privilege that such an experience was put on life’s plate directly in front of me. I have made a promise to myself to look within myself and find a connection with G-d on the sun soaked roads of my homeland.
On a frigid December day in Toledo, I will depart for the sacred streets of Israel. Although my first time there, a large familial bloodline has relished in the sacred Israeli sun many times before. In fact, as I type on my cozy Midwestern Mac, my older brother is working hard on a kibbutz nestled in our homeland. Pictures of the magnificent land are constantly set straight to my phone. With each text, a new surge of urgency rushes through my excited head. Along with the rapid excitement lies a thin layer of nerves. Miles away from home, and with a group I am far from familiar with, I will be hurdled into a brand new environment. Any other destination and my mind would be a hectic mess of “what ifs.” The point of arrival is a bit different than any other major travel location. For this is Israel, my homeland. Without even having touched the sand covered streets I feel sense of belonging. I have not always been the religious type. My Sunday school attendance record is laughable and services are not my first priority. Religion to me is not about synagogue or Hebrew lessons. Religion is about connection and finding both yourself and others with the help of a higher power. Traveling to Israel is my opportunity to feel a connection with G-d on a grand scale. Years of absence on the Sunday school attendee list will diminish within seconds of viewing the Western Wall, beautiful markets and breathtaking synagogues.
Israel has always been, for me, a concept of a mysterious land of ancient culture, devout religions and simpler lives. Today, as it was for its earliest inhabitants, a trip to Israel represents a pilgrimage to find a holier sense of one’s self. On my first trip there, I will get to evaluate the expectations I developed from hearing the stories of many others who have gone. In more recent years, however, I have formed a more complex view than I had always had of the nation. Internal and external conflicts dominate the news we receive concerning Israel, as with many other parts of the world. Two of my brothers traveled there on a Birthright trip last summer, during the midst of rocket attacks emanating from Gaza. I was concerned for them, as I had become aware that the very same reasons why the land was so holy was why it has become a source of conflict. There is something desirable yet indescribable there. My opinions on the state of Israel have been based solely on what I have heard from others, and this trip will allow me to create informed opinions, based upon interactions with the people whose lives form its rich culture. Connecting with teens like myself will help build strong connections between our nation and theirs. Not only do I expect to be amazed by the landscape and the history, but also by the people who inhabit it. The conflicts in the Middle East are not only relevant to those who live there. In a community as diverse as ours, each side is represented for these contentious issues, causing them to affect us all. Far too much hate exists between divisions of religion and culture, derived from a lack of knowledge of the situation or its players. Traveling to where the issues are most contentious, most critical, should provide me with the knowledge to understand the humanity of others, a tool to be an ambassador of peace. Centrally important to this trip is connections formed between communities. Israel needs just as strong of support today as ever, and creating links on the most personal level works to achieve this. I may not agree with every policy Israel institutes, but getting to the nation better will allow me to evaluate them based on their merits. As strong allies, our countries are dependent upon each other. Personal connections will help strengthen this alliance, benefitting both nations long into the future.
By Rochie Rubin This is going to be my first trip to Israel, and I’m extremely excited. I’ve seen the country only through pictures and videos and heard about it from those that have been there before. The images I’ve seen and the things I’ve been told paint an outstanding vision of the beauty of all the sights and landscapes of the land. I can’t wait to finally get the chance to see it all for myself. I am also nervous to be going there due to the current war. From this trip, I hope to gain knowledge that will help me become a stronger advocate for Israel and to get myself more in touch with my roots, identity, history, culture, beliefs and religion. I’m hoping that this experience will help define my identity and my beliefs as a Jew in today’s society
that will help mold me as I embark on my next journey in life. I’m interested to see all the historical artifacts and locations and make a connection between them and the things that I’ve learned about in school for all these years. I look forward to reconnecting with some of my old friends from the Hebrew Academy and to meeting many new and different people, the teens from the other cities on the trip and the individuals we’ll meet in Israel. This mission, I feel, will open a world of possibilities for all of us. Traveling with so many other teens our age will be an amazing experience to have as we enter the next chapter of our lives.
Mission continued on page 11
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 11
Local News Friendship Circle children and volunteers had a ball at Bowling Buddies
®
Maddie Bush and Kayla McQueen
Oscar Barchick and Josh Jaffee
Rivki Shemtov and Rachel Rubin
Friendship Circle logos are registered trademarks of Friendship Circle International, a division of Chabad-Lubavitch International.
Run with us ®
Marshall Goldstein is also running with Each year, Friendship Circle International Team Friendship for the second time. His forms a unique team of teens and adults from across the country who join together to tackle inspiration for running came from his two sons, who are volunteers for The Friendship the Miami Marathon. After raising important funds for their local Friendship Circle chapters, Circle. “When my two sons joined Friendship Circle, it showed me that they believed in what the team joins for an amazing weekend in Miis written within the Torah, ‘Love thy neighbor ami, culminating with the marathon. Friendship Circle logos The race consists of two options, the full are registered trademarks as yourself.’ I could see how they decided to give of themselves unconditionally. I feel that it is marathon of 26.2 miles and the half marathon of Friendship Circle International, a division of 13.1 miles. From registration until crossing of Chabad-Lubavitch one of the highest honors to be able represent my sons, my family and my community.” the finish line, participants of Team Friendship International. undergo an incredible journey, developing new Peter Silverman, running with Team skills that will not only affect their own lives, but have a Friendship for the second time as well, sees the effects of much broader impact on their communities. Throughout volunteering for The Friendship Circle from his Sunday their physical training period, as the participants broadcast school students. He believes that their involvement gives their mission and their fundraising efforts, they simultane- them a deep feeling for what it really means to “love your ously create awareness about friendship, acceptance and the neighbor like yourself” in a way that could not be taught in school. special needs community. Zack Ottenstein is new to the team this year. He is The marathon is a great opportunity to ensure that the Friendship Circle can continue offering its incredible pro- excited about the opportunity to support a cause that is grams, which affect not only the special needs community, uniting the community and insists that what we are really but the teen and adult volunteers as well. Rivki Shemtov, celebrating is the volunteerism of our community. “I’m glad Friendship Circle of Toledo's team captain who is running to be a part of something so tremendous,” he said. Andy Golding and Rochelle Barchick are part of this for the second year, believes that this is a great way to unite the entire community and is excited for this year’s adventure. incredible team and are excited to be a part of this journey “I feel honored to help arrange such a meaningful event for the children. Participants are compensated for their effort and dediwhich honors such amazing children and their families,” cation with an all-inclusive weekend at a resort in Miami, said Shemtov.
Mission
cont. from page 10
By Ben Yaffe As the sound of the 747’s engines roared for takeoff, I became filled with more excitement than I even knew was possible. It was time for my first trip to Israel. Here I sit writing an article to prepare myself for my second trip, which I know will blow the other trip out of the water, and I am filled with even more excitement and I'm not even on the plane. This trip is really about engaging and immersing myself in the life and culture of the teens from the Partnership region. Straying away from discussing Israel's size in cubic miles, it's a giant melting pot and I want to be a little bouillon cube thrown in there. Through this amazing opportunity I will have that chance. I expect to be able to walk around the streets like a normal teen and experience a home Shabbat. Along with the cultural aspect, I really hope to enhance my Judaism. Much like a bouillon cube adds flavor, I hope my trip to Israel and the Judaic experiences I have will continuously make me more aware of what being Jewish truly means to the people of Israel. If you would like personal updates from me while on my trip, feel free to check my Twitter and Instagram (@benjiy97) or Snapchat (ben-yaffe).
(clockwise from top left) Marshall Goldstein, Andy Golding, Peter Silverman, Zack Ottenstein, Rivki Shemtov and Rochelle Barchick together with like-minded Jews from all over the U.S. who have also taken on the challenge of training and fundraising for the marathon. Toledo’s Team Friendship is now six people strong. There is still time to join the team! If you would like information on how you can join Team Friendship or support the runners, please contact Rivki Shemtov at 419-973-0559. To make a donation, please visit miami.teamfriendship. org/toledo.
Page 12 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Local News Gloria Steinem comes home to Toledo Public Library and The Blade. “I feel I should tap dance,” she began. “We are here in a combination of people Gloria Steinem – Toledo-born writer, that could never happen before and never lecturer, political activist and feminist happen again.” organizer – spoke November 18 to a sold Present in the diverse audience that out Toledo crowd of more than 2,400 included people of all ages, races, religions people at the Stranahan Theater. The and sexualities were prominent Toledo event was part of the Authors! Authors! women, Mayor Paula Hicks-Hudson and Series presented by Toledo-Lucas County State Representative Teresa Fedor. Promoting her newly released book, “My Life on the Road,” Ms. Steinem spent most of the evening discussing issues of human rights with the audience, which she encouraged to create a forum, or circle, of dialogue. “We are in a time of backlash toward social justice,” Ms. Steinem said. “Nothing happens without the female half of the human race involved … Progress takes time … [We must] lead with love and move at the speed of trust.” Known for her role in the feminist movement, Ms. Steinem has historically been a proponent or human rights in general. “Racism and sexism are profoundly intertwined,” she stated. Sheila Odesky presents Gloria Steinem with a copy “They can only be uprooted of "A History of the Toledo Jewish Community," together … A declarawhich mentions Ms. Steinem's grandmother tion of interdependence is By Abby Hoicowitz, Staff Editor/Reporter
Gloria Steinem speaks at the Stranahan Theater in mid-November absolutely crucial … It doesn’t matter what we should do, only that we do everything we can.” Responding to a question from a female sports journalist at The Blade, Ms. Steinem noted the importance of sports for women. “Sports lets us know that our bodies are not ornaments but instruments.” When a 9-year-old audience member asked Ms. Steinem if she is ever afraid of sticking up for herself, she replied, “The only thing worse than speaking up is not speaking up. Fear is a sign of growth.” Regarding religion, she said, “Spirituality is about a godliness in all living things, not a hierarchical structure.” Ms. Steinem was born in Toledo in 1934 to father, Leo (the son of Jewish immigrants from Germany and Poland) and
mother, Ruth (a Presbyterian of Scottish and German descent). Though not Jewish, Ruth Steinem taught her daughters about the evils of anti-Semitism and the crimes of the Holocaust. According to Ms. Steinem, via the Jewish Women's Archive, her paternal grandmother, Pauline Perlmutter Steinem, daughter of a cantor, was a Jewish suffragist who kept a kosher table, had four sons and was a pioneer of vocational education. As detailed in "A History of The Toledo Jewish Community: 1895-2006," a publication of Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, the family belonged to Temple Shomer Emunim where Pauline served as president of its sisterhood. Her first club office in Toledo was secretary of the Hebrew Ladies' Benevolent Association; she was also an early president of the Jewish Associated Charities and Free Loan Association. She founded the Toledo Council of Jewish Women around 1900. After working to change state law so women could vote for local school boards, she was elected to the Toledo Board of Education as the first woman member in 1904 and served five years. She subsequently served as a trustee of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library from 1910-1914. In the mid-1930s, Pauline Steinem managed to rescue many members of her family from Nazi terror in Germany. Gloria Steinem attended Waite High School in Toledo, performing at local clubs and hoping to tap dance out of Toledo, before moving to Washington, D.C., where she graduated from Western High School then Smith College in Massachusetts.
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Don't miss out on the sounds of the season
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 13
Local News
Shabbat with your child
Preschool
Shabbat! Tranquility, awareness, Jewish identity, family, rest, delicious food and holiness are some words that help describe the beauty of Shabbat. Shabbat! Judaism provides us with the weekly opportunity to press the pause button on our hectic lives. Shabbat is a day on which our world stands still, so that we can spend quality time with ourselves, our family, our friends and our community.
While Shabbat with a preschooler may not be entirely restful, it is a wonderful family tradition. It is a time to slow down and appreciate the wonderful nuances of our lives, to reclaim our lives for ourselves and our family. The Shabbat experience is an integral part of our Gan Yeladim preschool program. The children eagerly look forward to Friday to be involved in Shabbat preparations. Hands on opportunities allow for the children to shop,
After much preparation Gan toddlers and parents celebrate Shabbat
Sadie and Vivian place the challah and grape juice on the Shabbat table
Zoe and Chana help clean the house for Shabbat
Jonah goes shopping for Shabbat
Kaya beats the eggs for the challah dough
Madison begins to shape the challahs
Precious moments at weekly 'Tiny Treasures'
Co-sponsored by
Chabad and Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Supported by the Federation’s Annual Campaign
clean, cook bake and set the table. The highlight of course is when they get to sit down and celebrate Shabbat as a group with candle lighting, Kiddush and a Shabbat treat. Shabbat with your child: Make it special! Make it memorable! Make it about family!
Preschool Co-sponsored by
Chabad and Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Supported by the Federation’s Annual Campaign
"Firefighter" Jonah to the rescue
Lila develops her fine motor skills as she places the candles in the play dough.
Baby Maggie and mom enjoy meeting new friends
Sam and Noah practice putting candles in the Menorah
Chaim is experimenting with balls on the track
Nathan and Talia enjoy the rocking boat
Page 14 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
SUPPORTED BY
Local News
Jewish Federation & Foundation YOUR CAMPAIGN AND LEGACY GIFTS AT WORK
Rogolsky (Book Festival Chair), Rene Rusgo (Director, Senior Services & Senior Adult Center), Kim Brody (Principal, Congregation B'nai Israel), Nancy Jacobson (Principal, Ohr Chadash, Congregation Etz Chayim), Wendy Payne (Principal, Temple Shomer Emunim), Jodi Barr, Bonnie Berland, Lynda Dolgin Duda, Judi Fox, Maurine Glasser, Lois Levison, Lynn Liber, Sheila Odesky, Sharon Ravin, Lauren Sachs and Dena Zack. The Federation would also like to acknowledge the following for their generous support and partnership: Wingate by Wyndham, Jewish Senior Services Sup-
The 2015 Northwest Ohio Jewish Book Festival was once again a wild success with over 380 Toledo community attending the seven diverse events. Thank you to everyone who supported this annual event and helped us to celebrate Jewish literature right here in Jewish Toledo. Thank you to the Book Festival Committee: Janet
porting Organization, Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo - Campaign Funds, Toledo Jewish Community Foundation Unrestricted Fund, Jewish Book Council, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Creative Designs by Jeannette and Toledo City Paper.
Marcia Fine
Cynthia Levinson
Dawn Wynne
Catherine Lloyd Burns Justine Gubar
Book Festival continued on page 15
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 15
Local News
SUPPORTED BY
Jewish Federation & Foundation YOUR CAMPAIGN AND LEGACY GIFTS AT WORK
Dani Klein Modisett
continued from page 14
Sally Fingerett
SUPPORTED BY
Jewish Federation & Foundation YOUR CAMPAIGN AND LEGACY GIFTS AT WORK
Tot S h
te
b at b a a y da l P Friday, January 15 10 a.m. Leonard Lounge, Federation Campus 6465 Sylvania Avenue
Come and play with PJ Library® and meet some new friends! Join us for a morning of stories, songs, snacks and Shabbat! RSVP to Hallie Freed at 419-724-0362 or hallie@jewishtoledo.org To learn more about PJ Library® and to ensure your child receives this wonderful gift, please contact Hallie Freed at 419-724-0362 or hallie@ JewishToledo.org. PJ Library® is supported in part by the Gary and Andrea Delman Family Foundation and Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo.
Page 16 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Local News SUPPORTED BY
Young Jewish Toledo is a staple of Jewish life in the Toledo area, existing to draw wonderful, dynamic, young Jewish people together for the greater benefit of the community.
YO U R C A M PA I G N G I F TS AT WO R K
Y O U N G
Professionals
From Hebrew Happy Hours to date nights to volunteer opportunities, Young Jewish Toledo provides a range of outlets for young Jewish professionals 21-40. These future leaders of Jewish Toledo are continuously strengthening personal connections while participating in, and perpetuating, Jewish life in Toledo. To find out more about how you or someone you know can get involved with Young Jewish Toledo, contact Hallie Freed at 419-724-0362 or hallie@JewishToledo.org.
Programs especially for post college to young families.
YJT & Gan Yeladim Parents' Night Out Preschool Saturday, February 20 7:45 p.m. Gathered Glassblowing Studio, 23 N. Huron Street, Toledo Y O U N G PRICE TBD (will include glass experience, wine & appetizers Co-sponsored by
Chabad and Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Supported by the Federation’s Annual Campaign
YJT Fridays Y O U N G
Get inspired with other young Jewish professionals at our NEW Shabbat dinner program. Socialize, nosh on some great eats and bring in Shabbat with new friends.
Toledo
Friday, December 18 7 p.m. Kyoto Ka Restaurant, 6801 W. Central Avenue #J, Toledo
YJT and parents of Gan Yeladim preschool students are invited for a night out! Sip on wine, nosh on nibbles and gather with new and old friends.
Toledo
Gathered Glassblowing Studio will help you create a beautiful flower, paper weight or vase to take home. As a collective group, we will gather to create a piece of art for donation to the biannual Gan Yeladim art auction in May 2016. RSVP by Friday, February 12 to to Hallie Freed at hallie@JewishToledo.org or 419-724-0362.
THIS HANUKKAH,
DO GOOD EVERYWHERE. FROM ANYWHERE. It’s Hanukkah! You’re in the kitchen frying up latkes. Lighting the menorah. Giving out gifts. Good things you do every year for your family. But while you’re doing them—why not do good things for your global family as well? Like nurturing and strengthening Jewish life. Helping the vulnerable. Inspiring the young. And safeguarding our people.* This Hanukkah change Jewish lives for the better everywhere. You can do it from anywhere. Even your own kitchen. Please give generously to Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo today.
*Federation touches more Jewish lives on the planet than any other organization. With programs in over 70 countries around the world, our work includes: aiding over 70,000 poverty-stricken Jews in war-torn Ukraine; helping needy Holocaust survivors worldwide; providing Jewish education for children and teens; helping connect young Jewish adults to their religion, culture and to Israel. And so much more.
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 17
Organizations/Local News Hadassah
Miracles in every season This is the season of Hanukkah, which commemorates the victory of a small band of Maccabees over the Syrian-Greeks who ruled the land of Israel in 167-164 BCE. Against all odds, the outnumbered Jewish freedom fighters prevailed. The festival celebrates the miracle of freedom for the Jewish people in that place and time and continues to represent victories won against great odds. It is also a celebration of the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. As we approach the festival of Hanukkah, we are reminded of the many miracles in our own lives and in the life of Hadassah. In addition to the commonly-understood significance of Hanukkah, it is also therefore a Jewish holiday that celebrates the value of religious freedom and the importance of respecting diverse religious faiths. We have come a long way since ancient times, and today, Israel is a Jewish state where all citizens are free to practice their faiths openly and without fear of retribution. The value of respecting religious differences is embodied by the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO). The HMO hospitals in Ein Kerem and on Mount Scopus treat all people, regardless of ethnicity or religion. HMO has trained many Arab doctors and medical professionals, and Hadassah employees – including Muslims, Christians and Jews – work together in a model of coexistence. In times of escalated violence, HMO collaborates with Arab leaders and institutions to provide emergency medical relief in areas that need it most. With the determination, passion and commitment of over 300,000 women in America, miracles continue to happen every day at Hadassah. It is no small miracle that Hadassah has grown and flourished. Where others saw darkness, we see the promise of a brighter future. Hanukkah renews our hope, faith and spiritual light. We
Submitted by Hindea Markowicz see the flames of the menorah and are reminded of the miracles that come from that light. Membership Campaign Hadassah – Lock in for Life Beginning on July 1, 2015, current Life Members and Associates can give a free gift of annual membership to women 17 years of age or older. Life Members and Associates can give an unlimited number of free annual memberships as long as they complete an enrollment form for each individual. The Gift Enrollment form is available in the Gifting Campaign folder on the Intranet. In honor of our Centennial Year, Hadassah continues to offer Life Membership and Associate enrollment for $212. The strength and support of Hadassah’s members and donors sustain the extraordinary work of Hadassah. As an incentive to enroll new Life Members, National will give internal Fundraising Goal Credit to the units for each new Life member and Associate enrolled. A very special welcome to the more than 50,000 women, men and children who showed their support for the extraordinary work of Hadassah by becoming new Life members and Associates. Our collective strength will continue to make a difference in the United States, Israel and around the world for the next 100 years. Let’s continue to enroll women and men in Hadassah and Lock in for Life. Become a Member. Be a Supporter Hadassah – Lock in for Life. Member-Get-A-Member Campaign DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT If every Hadassah member enrolled a new member, imagine the IMPACT DOUBLE YOUR VOICE in your community
DOUBLE OUR INFLUENCE in Washington DOUBLE THE SCOPE of medical research in Israel DOUBLE HADASSAH’S IMPACT in the world Gift a Life Membership for $212 and receive a multigenerational pin. Offer valid January-December 31, 2015. Hadassah Contributions and Mah Jongg Cards Hadassah is always grateful for the many contributions it receives throughout the year from members and friends. Beautiful cards and certificates are sent to acknowledge the donor’s gift and the donation is listed in the Hadassah bulletin. To make a donation or send a tribute card, contact Selma Master at 419-841-4936 and/or Yvette Levin at 419-536-1703. Jan Weaver has offered to take orders for the new 2016 Mah Jongg cards. The standard card is $8; the large card is $9. This will be her last year with the project. If anyone is interested in taking over, please contact Jan at 419-340-9819, and she can explain the procedure. She needs the orders no later than January 5, 2016. This year she is only taking checks, no cash. Send your payment to Jan Weaver, 7541 Hollow Creek Dr., Toledo, OH 43617 or call her at 419-340-9819. Hadassah is always grateful for the many contributions it receives throughout the year from members and friends. Beautiful cards and certificates are sent to acknowledge the donor’s gift and the donation is listed in the Hadassah bulletin. To make a donation or send a tribute card, contact Selma Master at 419-841-4936 and/or Yvette Levin at 419-536-1703. Change of Address Calling all members: if you have a change of address, please contact Shelli Plosscowe at 841-4311 or SPlosscowe@aol.com.
Jewish Family Service donations received June - November 2015 In Memory of Alice Davis Richard Kasle William & Barbara Lindeman
In honor of the special birthday of Gerald Brandman Abe & Martha Birnbaum
In Memory of Henry Hess Beverly Gottlieb Richard Kasle Steve & Debbe Skutch
In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Oscar Barchick Jeff & Sheryl Levin
In Memory of Joseph Shugarman Richard Kasle In Memory of the beloved son of David Steketee Janice Edelstein In Memory of Bert Udell Steve Lauer & Marilyn Klar In Memory of Sylvia Steinberg Chuck & Helene Helburn Stephanie Lamontanaro Martha Pituch & Group Michael & Paulette Racanelli Stan & Karen Zupnick In Memory of Pat Rosenthal Steve Lauer & Marilyn Klar In honor of the special birthday of JoJo Fruchtman Markowicz Abe & Martha Birnbaum
In honor of the special anniversary of Ken & Nancy Newbury John & Donna Efroymson Mazel Tov in honor of the new home of Ross Chaban & Dr. Sarah Taub Steve Lauer & Marilyn Klar Ken & Nancy Newbury Financial Donations to the Food Pantry and to the CSA Food to Share Program Alpha Delta Kappa Beta Arthur Brecher Phyllis Diamond Irene Heiber Chuck & Helene Helburn Phyllis Horwitz Cary & Michelle Kart Alan Kennedy Stephanie Lamontanaro Steve Lauer & Marilyn Klar E. J. Leizerman Jeff & Sheryl Levin Victor Markowitz
Martha Pituch & Group Michael & Paulette Racanelli Marilyn J. Reinstein Doris Stark Beverly Steinman Temple Congregation Shomer Emunim Barbara Treuhaft Stan & Karen Zupnick
Thank you to all who also donated food and other items to the Food Pantry. Special recognition is given to Chase Kripke for raising funds for Thanksgiving baskets for 20 needy families.
To submit material for consideration in Toledo Jewish News, please contact Abby at 419-724-0363 or abby@jewishtoledo.org
Page 18 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Temple Shomer Emunim
Congregation B'nai Israel Schedule of Services
Monday – Thursday: 7 a.m. | 5:45 p.m. Friday: 7 a.m. | 5 p.m. Saturday: 9:30 a.m. | 1 p.m. Sunday: 9:30 a.m. (when Sunday School is in session) Office Hours 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. December 24, December 28-31
Adult Education with Rabbi Sokobin
10:30 a.m. CBI Library January 10: Judaism Reaches the Modern World January 24: The Long Walk from Jerusalem to Toledo Please join us for a special discussion with Rabbi Alan Sokobin on two wonderful topics.
December Religious School Calendar
Wednesday, December 2 Wednesday Religious School 4:30-6 p.m. Sunday, December 6 Sunday Religious School 9:30 a.m.-noon Parent Tot Class 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 9 Wednesday Religious School 4:30-6 p.m. Sunday, December 13 Sunday Religious School 9:30-11:30 a.m. Parent Tot Class 10-11:30 a.m. Hanukkah Palooza Celebration 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 16 Wednesday Religious School 4:30-6 p.m.
Office will be closed December 25, 2015, January 1, 2016, January 18, 2016 Special Service Hours Thursday, December 24: 7 a.m. | no evening services Friday, December 25: 9 a.m. | 5 p.m. Thursday, December 31: 7 a.m. | no evening services Friday, January 1: 9 a.m. | 5 p.m. Monday, January 18: 7 a.m. | no evening services
Sisterhood Gift Shop Stop by the Gift Shop for all your Hanukah gifts! New items include:
LED Window Decorations with suction cup Hanukkah Shortbread Cookies Jewelry Menorahs
Dripless Hanukkah Candles Hanukkah Gelt Hanukkah Shopping Spree Hours Sunday, December 6 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. December 1-3 hours 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. December 7-8 hours 10 a.m. – noon
S.O.A.P.
Snowbirds
Every Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the CBI Library Join Hazzan Lichterman for a lively discussion.
Please let us know your winter address and how long you will be gone. Do we have your email address?
Volunteers Needed
Call the office at 419-517-8400 or email ctraugott@cbitoledo.org or rmiller@cbitoledo.org
B’nai Israel needs volunteers for Holiday Mitzvah Projects: December 24 Kingston Care Center of Sylvania 4121 King Road, Sylvania 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Community Center 230 13th Street, Toledo 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. December 25 Kingston Care Center of Sylvania 4121 King Road, Sylvania 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Toledo Area Humane Society 827 Illinois Avenue, Maumee 8 a.m. – noon 3 – 5 p.m. Sunset House 4020 Indian Road, Toledo 10 a.m. – noon 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. The Sight Center of Northwest OH 1002 Garden Lake Parkway, Toledo 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. To sign up for any or all of the above, please call the synagogue at 419-517-8400 or email ctraugott@cbitoledo.org.
Sisterhood Book Club December 22, 2015 The Sisters Weiss by Naomi Ragen 10:30 a.m. B’nai Israel Library
Joint Synagogue Book Club Meeting
The Secret Chord by Geraldine Brooks Pen to Palette Docent Tour and Book Discussion at the Toledo Museum of Art Tuesday, January 26, 2016 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. $5 per person Meet at the Grove Street entrance at 10:45 a.m. This program is limited to the first 40 people who R.S.V.P. Please contact Elsa in the Etz Chayim office at 419-473-2401 or elsa@etzchayimtoledo.org by Friday, January 15 to make your reservation Lunch will be available at your own expense in the Museum Café, which features vegetarian and dairy options.
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 19
Congregation Etz Chayim
Ohr Chadash Religious School
Celebrate the “Festival of Lights” with the children and adults at Etz Chayim on Thursday, December 10. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with games, crafts and face painting. Following a delicious latke dinner and Hanukkah treats, everyone will be entertained with singing from our very own “Trees of Life” band. Several of our Ohr Chadash students will be joining the band to play and sing Hanukkah songs. The younger classes will be performing “The Super Heroes Save Hanukkah.” The hero in the story will use a time machine to go back to the story of Hanukkah. The hero will learn the significance of Hanukkah from Judah Maccabee. The older students will be leading a “Hanukkah Trivia” game. What fun it will be to challenge your friends to answering questions! This will be the fifth night of Hanukkah. Bring family menorahs and let’s light the candles together. The room will be glowing beautifully with all the menorahs lit! Don’t forget about the menorah making contest. Prizes will be awarded for creativity. Two Hanukkah Tzedakah Projects: 1. Bring a new pair of socks for “Hannah’s Socks.” This is a community based, non-profit organization dedicated to helping people affected by homelessness & poverty in Ohio and SE Michigan. They donate new socks to those in need through shelter homes, public schools, and direct distribution. 2. Ohr Chadash students: Make a card for a lone soldier.
December Religious School Calendar Sunday Classes 12/6: 10 a.m.-noon Hebrew Class 12:45-1:45 p.m. 12/13: 10 a.m.-noon Hebrew Class 12:45-1:45 p.m Thursday Classes 12/3: Class 4:15-6 p.m. 12/10: Class 4:15-6 p.m. Lighting Up Hanukkah 6 p.m.
Etz Chayim/Ohr Chadash Hanukkah Dinner Party
Children and adults of all ages are invited to attend a Hanukkah Dinner with latkes and all the trimmings on Thursday, December 10. Activities for children will begin at 6 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. The Etz Chayim Musical Group, “The Trees of Life,” will perform a variety of songs for your listening pleasure including the traditional Hanukkah ones. The children of the Ohr Chadash Religious School will present a Hanukkah program. The cost of the dinner is $12 for adults (ages 14 & up). Ohr Chadash students will be free with a donation of a pair of socks to the “Hannah’s Socks” project. Please RSVP to the synagogue office by Friday, December 4.
Gift Shop
The gift shop has all your shopping needs for the upcoming Hanukkah shopping season. From menorahs and gift items to paper products and decorations, the gift shop is well stocked. Sandy Marcus, gift shop chairperson has some wonderful Judaica items. We have many new artists with a variety of mezuzahs, menorahs and jewelry. If you are in the market for candles, plastic Shabbat table covers, disposable drip cups, or assorted Jewish toys, books and games, you can buy these at our gift shop. Get them while they last! In addition, check out the Ahava Hibiscus and Fig lotion and body wash. Both items are available for only $32. This is a great time to buy Ahava and beat the price increase. As always, we offer free gift wrap.
Chabad House
December Programs
Coffee Shop Event Sunday, December 6 4 to 6 p.m. Etz Chayim welcomes everyone to a Coffee Shoppe event celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. Enjoy a cup of joe with some pastries and then join in an exciting Panoply trivia game – for all ages. Of course, there will be candle-lighting for the first night of Hanukkah. Make your own Sushi Saturday, December 12 7 p.m. Have you ever wanted to make your own sushi? Join Etz Chayim on the 7th night of Hannukah as we roll and eat! The cost is $10 per person. Please RSVP to Rabbi Yaakov Lasson at jlasson@gmail.com by December 2. Cholent Making Contest Bring your creativity to the kitchen as you compete for title of best cholentmaker in the synagogue! Please come to the Etz Chayim Synagogue kitchen either Thursday night December 17 (7 – 8 p.m.) or Friday morning December 18 (10 a.m. – noon) to prepare your cholent. On Shabbat December 19, at conclusion of services, everyone will taste and vote on your favorite! Please RSVP to jlasson@gmail.com by December 1 if you are interested in making a cholent. Please submit your recipe by that time so that we can buy the necessary ingredients for you. First come, first served as there are limited spots available. Feel free to team up with a friend!
Sisterhood News
A tremendous THANK YOU to all of the wonderful volunteers who worked at this year’s rummage sale and helped make it a success. The net profits will go to Ohr Chadash Religious School and will support our classes and activities. Everyone should have received a Donor letter by now. Please make sure your contribution is received by December 8. As always, we cannot do all that we do without the support of all our members. If you are not a Sisterhood member, please consider joining now. Dues are $20 per year. If you are 60 and over, Life Membership is once again available for $200. Please contact Suzie Rosenberg, Membership Vice President, at 419-536-7758. If you are already a member, we say thank you for your continued support. We look forward to your participation in all our events and projects. The next Sisterhood Board meeting is Tuesday, December 1 at 10 a.m. in the Shul Library. All Sisterhood members are welcome to attend.
Men's Club
Everyone is invited to a Men’s Club Movie/Shabbat Dinner on Friday, December 25. The movie will be at the Franklin Park Mall Cinemas at a time to be determined. Following the movie, there will be services at 4:55 p.m. and a “Chinese” Shabbat Dinner at the synagogue following. The cost of the dinner is $15 per adult and $8 per child ages 5-10 years old. Please make your reservations early to the synagogue at 419-473-2401.
Page 20 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Business Cards
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It is easy to run a classified ad in Toledo Jewish News! Jodi D. Barr Attorney at Law 914-204-9023 Jodibarrjd@gmail.com Specializes in representing buyers and sellers in residential real estate closings.
First 12 words - $8, $0.10 per additional word. Phone numbers and abbreviations count as separate words. Ads must be received by the 15th of the month. Simply email your ad and billing information to abby@JewishToledo.org or call 419-724-0363 for more information. Please note: Classified ads will run every month (and the purchaser will be billed) until notification of cancellation is received.
Obituaries
Obituaries now accepted for print in Toledo Jewish News Toledo Jewish News i s n ow accepting obituaries for the Toledo Jewish community, immediate family members of the Toledo Jewish community, and former residents of the Toledo Jewish community. There is no charge to submit an obituary, but we encourage donations to Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo (www.jewishtoledo.org). Maximum obituary word length: 500 words (Toledo Jewish News reserves the right to edit obituaries as necessary)
Send your business card and billing information to: Abby Hoicowitz at 6465 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania, OH 43560 or abby@JewishToledo.org Publish your business card (reproduced with no changes in black & white, unless color space allows) for just $36/month; Three-month minimum. Any changes to business card include extra charge. Ads must be received by the 15th of the month. Call 419-724-0363 for more information
Email completed obituaries to: paul@JewishToledo.org You may include a photo of the deceased if you wish (optional). NOTE: Only obituaries submitted to paul@JewishToledo.org (at the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo offices) will be printed in Toledo Jewish News. Toledo Jewish News is published the first of every month except July. Obituaries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. If you have additional questions, please contact paul@JewishToledo.org.
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 21
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Page 22 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News
Local News S'machot
The families of Charley Fruchtman and Adam Steinman, are delighted to announce their engagement. Charley is the daughter of Gary and Shelly Fruchtman of Toledo and Jane Fruchtman of Denver, Colorado. She is the granddaughter of the late Leonard and June Fruchtman of Toledo and the late Ernie and Adalynn Nogg of Omaha, Nebraska. Adam is the son of Larry and Lynne Steinman of Chesterfield, Missouri and the late Paul and Dorothy Steinman of St. Louis, and the late Fred and Frances Goldberg of Memphis, Tennessee. Charley earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Arizona State University, where she was a member of Chi Omega Sorority. She is currently a Sales and Events Manager at Hotel Chicago. Adam earned his Bachelor of Science in Advertising from Bradley University, where he was a member of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity. He is currently a Senior Account Executive at Glassdoor in Chicago. A July 2016 wedding is planned in Toledo.
Have something to kvell about? Send us your wedding, engagement, graduation, baby, job or other news for consideration in Toledo Jewish News today! Submit your simcha to Abby Hoicowitz at 419-724-0363 or abby@JewishToledo.org.
To submit material for consideration in Toledo Jewish News, please contact Abby at 419-724-0363 or abby@jewishtoledo.org
B'nai Mitzvah
W e Honor Our B'nai Mitzvah
Elayna Rusgo will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, December 5 at Temple Shomer Emunim. Elayna is the daughter of Rob and Julie Rusgo and sister to older brother, Adam, and younger sister, Emily. Her proud grandparents are Marjory Rusgo and the late Dr. Harmon J. Rusgo, and the late Chris and Joan Hiller. Elayna attends Timberstone Junior High where she is an honor student and a member of the Timberstone band. Elayna spends much of her time at the horse barn where she is passionate about riding and competing in local shows. In her spare time, Elayna enjoys playing volleyball and assisting with a variety of camps that introduce children
Madelyn Rahman will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at Temple Shomer Emunim. Madelyn is the daughter of Sarah and James Benard and the late Kenneth Rahman, Jr., and sister to Shayna and Josh Rahman. She is the granddaughter of Ritchie and Penny Levine of Sylvania, Ohio; Rex and Emily Phelps of Clinton Township, Michigan; and Ronald and Tina Dover of Lambertville, Michigan. Madelyn is an Honor Roll Student at Sylvania McCord Junior High School where she is a member of the volleyball team, Youth to Youth, the GATE Program, and Power of the Pen. In her free time, she enjoys music, art, and spending time with her friends. Madelyn is excited to celebrate her day with family and friends.
to the horse world. Elayna is looking forward to sharing her special day with family and friends.
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 23
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Calendar/Local News
December 2015 Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Kislev/Tevet 5776
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1 2 3 4 5
SUPPORTED BY
YOUR CAMPAIGN GIFTS AT WORK
Hanukkah Hanukkah Hanukkah Hanukkah Hanukkah Hanukkah 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Seniors: Annual Latke Luncheon Noon Congregation B'nai Israel
Young Jewish Toledo: Hanukkah 1 3 14 15 16 17 18 19 YJT Fridays
Community: Hanukkah Palooza 11:30 a.m. Congregation B'nai Israel
7 p.m. Location TBD
Christmas Eve 24 Christmas 20 21 22 23 25 26 Federation offices Federation offices close at 1 p.m.
closed
New Years Eve 27 28 29 30 31 Note: All dates, times and Federation offices close at 4 p.m.
locations are subject to change. Call 419-885-4461 for more information.
Hanukkah
Toledo Jewish News • December 2015 • Page 27
Local News
g n ! i 6 m 1 Co July 20
o d e l o T h l s a i v Jew ood Festi F
PJ Goes to Camp We love camp!
That's why PJ Library and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation are proud to help kids experience Jewish overnight camp for the first time. PJ Goes to Camp partners with the One Happy Camper initiative to provide up to $1,000 to help your kids enjoy the magic of camp. Registration fills up quickly and is on a first come, first serve basis. Visit: www.pjlibrary.org/about-pj-library.pj-goes-to-camp.aspx to learn more or apply!
Who?
First-time campers who are PJ Library recipients, siblings, or PJ Alumni, who were participants in PJ Library as of September 1, 2015. Other restrictions may apply. Campers who attend a Jewish day school must register by November 8, 2015.
Calling all foodies…
When?
Summer 2016 camp sessions
Where?
Are you interested in planning?
Any of the 150+ Jewish nonprofit camps listed on jewishcamp.org
Are you a chef who would like to show off your Jewish dishes?
How much?
$700 for sessions of 12-18 days, and $1,000 for camp sessions of 19 days or longer. Full eligibility requirements are described at onehappycamper.org
Do you have an idea for the Jewish Food Festival?
For more information, please contact Hallie Freed at 419-724-0362 or hallie@JewishToledo.org.
Sponsored in part by
Enrolling is easy!
1. Decide on a camp to attend. 2. Get a referral code here. 3. Visit onehappycamper.org to begin your PJ Goes to Camp enrollment process. Full eligibility and funding rules can be found at www.pjlibrary. org/PJGTC
To learn more about PJ Library® and to ensure your child receives this wonderful gift, please contact Hallie Freed at 419-724-0362 or hallie@JewishToledo.org.
Wishing you a Happy Hanukkah!
PJ Library® is supported in part by the Gary and Andrea Delman Family Foundation and Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo. SUPPORTED BY
Jewish Federation & Foundation YOUR CAMPAIGN AND LEGACY GIFTS AT WORK
Page 28 • December 2015 • Toledo Jewish News