CT Jewish Ledger • June 4, 2021 • 24 Sivan 5781

Friday, June 4, 2021 24 Sivan 5781 Vol. 93 | No. 23 | ©2021 $1.00 | jewishledger.com

UNLOCKING PARKINSON’S 1

JEWISH LEDGER

| JUNE 4, 2021

jewishledger.com

RUCK 2 REMEMBER TUESDAY, JUNE 1 THROUGH TUESDAY, JUNE 8

REGISTER FOR THE IN PERSON OR VIRTUAL RUCK ONLINE AT APKCHARITIES.ORG NOT A RUCKER? YOU CAN STILL DONATE TO OUR GENERAL FUND!

APK Charities Corporation, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization raising funds for these Military charities: APK Direct Assistance Program to provide direct financial aid and material assistance to Veterans and active Military and their families, APK Endowment Fund with the Madison & Guilford Foundations, Spikes K9 Fund. Our support of these charities are in loving memory of Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel, Special Forces. Gold Star families Memorial Monument to be built in Berlin.

Register or donate online at http://www.apkcharities.org.

l)W-@)

APK Charities, PO Box 1247, Madison, CT 06443 • www.apkcharities.org • apkcharitiesorg@gmail.com

YES, I would like to be an APK sponsor at the following level: 2

JEWISH LEDGER

| JUNE 4, 2021

□ Purple Heart Sponsor: $2,500

• Logo in all advertising, marketing and promotion, including traditional and digital • Logo on T-shirt and signage

jewishledger.com

INSIDE

this week

CONNECTICUT JEWISH LEDGER | SINCE 1929 | JUNE 4, 2021 | 24 SIVAN 5781

8 Bulletin Board

9 Around Connecticut

14 Briefs

17 Crossword

18 What’s Happening

Friends Forever...................................................................... 5 It was a tough year for members of the Friendship Circle. But with the help of good ‘buddies,’ they made it through. And now it’s time to party!

Play Ball!.................................................................................. 5 Before they head off for the Tokyo Olympic Games, Team Israel will play a couple of exhibition games at Hartford’s Dunkin’Donut Stadium. Among the team’s players: Josh Zeid of New Haven and former Yard Goats infielder Scott Burcham.

A Sour Note............................................................................10 In 2005, Van Morrison denied that his song “They Sold Me Out,” was antisemitic. Now, he’s not commenting on his new song, “They Own the Media,” despite the fact that many articles have flagged it as blasting Jews.

In Memoriam.......................................................................16 Roman Kent lectured students, teachers and adults across America, making sure that what happened to the Jews during the Holocaust was not forgotten.

19 Torah Portion

20 Obituaries

21 Business and Professional Directory

22 Classified

ON THE COVER:

A high rate of genetic Parkinson’s makes Israel a perfect lab for finding ways to prevent, stop and even cure this fastgrowing neurological disorder. Which is why they’re working on it – putting Israel on the road to becoming a hub for Parkinson’s research. That’s good news for Ashkenzi Jews everywhere. Pictured on the cover: Tubes at a laboratory at Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center. (Photo

by FLASH90) PAGE 12 jewishledger.com

CANDLE LIGHTING

Sponsored by:

SHABBAT FRIDAY, JUNE 4 Hartford 8:04 p.m.

New Haven: 8:04 p.m.

Bridgeport: 8:05 p.m.

Stamford: 8:06 p.m.

To determine the time for Havdalah, add one hour and 10 minutes (to be safe) to candle lighting time.

JEWISH LEDGER

2471 Albany Ave., West Hartford 860.236.1965 • thecrownmarket.com

|

JUNE 4, 2021

3

PHOTO CREDITS MARKO DOSHAV

open to all Covert: Adults $36 Children $18

Friendship Circle Celebration

sunday JUNE 6TH 2021 3:00pm

COVID-SAFE CONCERT

WEST HARTFORD TOWN HALL LOT

CELEBRATE TOGETHER THE BAR/BAT MITZVAH MILESTONES OF THE PANDEMIC YEAR.

featuring

ROGERS PARK BAND

• Outdoor Covid safe seating • or stay-in-car option

applaud the children, teens and young adults living with and without disability whose friendships prevailed through challenging times.

RSVP & Ads: www.FriendshipCircleCT.com/celebrate A project of Chabad of Greater Hartford 4

ad size.indd 1

JEWISH LEDGER

| JUNE 4, 2021

5/27/21 3:00 PM jewishledger.com

UP FRONT CONNECTICUT JEWISH LEDGER | SINCE 1929 | JUNE 4, 2021 | 24 SIVAN 5781

Friendship Circle members celebrate the end of a challenging year with good ‘buddies’ and great music

W

EST HARTFORD – Six years ago Keighan Kosimoff became a member of Friendship Circle.

A project of Chabad of Greater Hartford, Friendship Circle brings together young people with and without disabilities for a variety of Judaic and social programs.

Its goal is make members aware of “the greatness in themselves and in others, empowering everyone to develop a more accommodating and welcoming Jewish community for all.”

Keighan, 14, who is autistic and has ADHD and learning disabilities, has always

BY STACEY DRESNER

loved spending time with his Friendship Circle “buddies” on Sunday afternoons at the Mandell Jewish Community Center in West Hartford, just hanging out or playing with Legos. These “buddies” are some of the dedicated teenage volunteers from local high schools who have become close friends with their Friendship Circle pals.

When Covid-19 struck last spring, Keighan’s mother, Karen, was concerned not only about keeping her son safe from the coronavirus; she also wanted to protect him from the sense of isolation caused by quarantining.

But as things began to shut down as a result of the pandemic, Friendship Circle

KEIGHAN KOSIMOFF, RIGHT, AND HIS BUDDY JACOB BOYD, WORKING AT KEIGHAN’S LEMONADE STAND AT FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE’S MAY 2 MUSIC CIRCLE EVENT.

jewishledger.com

quickly switched gears and worked to keep the special connection between its participants alive through virtual weekly meet-ups, some outdoor in-person meetups, and outdoor art and music programs.

Now Keighan Kosimoff is looking forward to Sunday, June 6 when Friendship Circle presents a live concert by the Rogers Park Band outside the Hartford Town Hall.

The goal of the concert, said Rabbi Shaya Gopin of Chabad House of Greater Hartford, is to celebrate all of the participants of Friendship Circle – the young children, teens and young adults living with and without disabilities who joined together in friendship to fight isolation during the pandemic year.

“The challenges of the pandemic especially impacted the segment of the community living with disability, for whom social connections can be a huge and hurtful challenge even during normal times,” Rabbi Gopin said. “It will be extra refreshing to gather in a safe way outdoors, following a challenging year of isolation.”

Tammy Krulewitz, Friendship Circle’s special education consultant, said that when Covid-19 began, they knew they had to keep their Friendship Circle participants engaged because of the harm that could be caused by the period of isolation.

“They can regress; negative behaviors might come out because they feel isolated,” she explained. “A lot of the socialization is learned socialization, and if they don’t practice it and engage in it, they can regress and lose those skills.”

The solution? Much like the rest of the world, it was Zoom.

“We flipped to Zoom and were able to come up with some different activities…and it was tremendous,” Krulewitz said. “The teens were amazing. We tried really hard to engage the kids in weekly activities, just trying to make life fun. The fact that they got to see their friends was really terrific. It was something they had to look forward to.”

For some Friendship Circle participants CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Team Israel to play in Connecticut before heading to Tokyo Summer Olympics

H

ARTFORD—The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, announced that Team Israel will play two exhibition games on Wednesday, July 14 and Thursday, July 15 at 10:30 a.m. at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.

Team Israel won the 2019 European Baseball Championship and earned the right to participate in the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Team Israel, led by four-time MLB All-Star Ian Kinsler, will play a pair of exhibition games against the Bristol Blues and Ocean State Waves of the NECL (New England Collegiate Baseball League) as part of its Northeast United States tour.

Baseball will be featured at the 2021 Summer Olympics for the first time since the 2008 Summer Games, and Team Israel is one of six national teams that will compete in the tournament. Besides Kinsler, the Team Israel current roster includes former Major League players such as C Ryan Lavarnway (Red Sox, Orioles, Braves, Athletics, Pirates, Reds, Marlins), RHP Connecticut native Josh Zeid (Astros), INF Danny Valencia (Twins & Orioles), INF/OF Ty Kelly (Mets & Phillies), LHP Jeremy Bleich (Athletics), RHP Jon Moscot (Reds), RHP Zack Weiss (Reds), and former Yard Goats infielder Scott Burcham.

Team Israel will head to Tokyo, Japan on July 22, and the Opening Ceremonies will take place on July 23.

“We are excited that our fans will get the opportunity to see Team Israel compete in a game leading up to their appearance in Tokyo at the upcoming Olympics,” Yard Goats team owner Josh Solomon said. “It is a huge accomplishment for such a small country to qualify for the Olympics and we are honored to host them at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.”

Kinsler played 14 years in the Major League’s and won a World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2018. The four-time All-Star second baseman CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

7

Team Israel CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

played his first eight years with the Texas Rangers (2006-2013) before joining the Detroit Tigers (2014-2017) and then the Los Angeles Angels (2018). The two-time Gold Glove Award winner was acquired by the Red Sox at the trading deadline in 2018 and helped them win the World Series. Kinsler played his final season in the majors in 2019 for the San Diego Padres.

“We’re delighted to be able to spend some time in Hartford during our Olympic preparations,” Team Israel General Manager Peter Kurtz said. “I want to thank Josh Solomon for helping make this happen. Josh has been a true friend of Israel Baseball and has donated generously to our cause. I know he was planning to be in Tokyo to cheer us on in person and since that can’t happen, playing two games on his turf is the next best thing.”

Lavarnway, who was an All American at Yale University, and set the Ivy League home run record before going on to play in the Major Leagues, returns to Team Israel where he was a Pool A MVP in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2008, he has spent the last ten seasons in the Majors, and was part of the Red Sox World Series club in 2013.

Zeid, a native of New Haven, pitched parts of two seasons for the Houston Astros in 2013 and 2014. The right-handed pitcher went to Hamden Hall Country Day School in Hamden. Originally drafted by the Phillies in the 10th round in 2009 out of Tulane University, Zeid spent time in the Philadelphia, Houston, Detroit, New York Mets and St. Louis organizations.

Valencia played nine years in the Major Leagues with the Twins, Red Sox, Orioles, Royals, Blue Jays, Athletics, and Mariners.

In 2010, the Miami native batted .311 with 18 doubles, seven home runs and 40 RBI and helped Minnesota win the American League Central Division, while finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting. The infielder played parts of two seasons in Connecticut starring for the New Britain Rock Cats in 2008 and 2009, combining to hit .287 with 32 doubles, 17 homer and 61 RBI in 126 games.

Kelly, who played parts of three seasons in the Major Leagues with the Mets and Phillies from 2016 through 2018, returns to Team Israel where he was part of the 2017 World Baseball Classic. The Baltimore Orioles selected him in the 13th round of the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft out of the University of California Davis. In college, Kelly led the Big West Conference with a .397 batting average and was a Cape Cod League All-Star for the Brewster Whitecaps in 2008.

Bleich, a left-handed pitcher and first round pick of the New York Yankees out of Stanford University, pitched for the Oakland Athletics in 2018. He spent 11 years in the minor leagues before finally reaching the big leagues and making his MLB debut on July 13, 2018 at San Francisco.

Moscot, a right-handed pitcher, played for the Reds in 2015 and 2016. The Pepperdine University product picked up his only MLB win on June 10, 2015 as he hurled six impressive innings against the Phillies.

NEW HAVEN NATIVE JOSH ZEID, WHO WAS DRAFTED BY THE PHILLIES IN IN 2009 AND HAS SPENT TIME IN THE PHILADELPHIA, HOUSTON, DETROIT, NEW YORK METS AND ST. LOUIS ORGANIZATIONS, IS A MEMBER OF TEAM ISRAEL.

6

JEWISH LEDGER

Weiss, a right-handed pitcher, played for the Reds in 2018. After getting drafted by Cincinnati in the sixth round in 2013 out of UCLA, he pitched six seasons in the minors before reaching the majors. He made his MLB debut on April 12, 2018 against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Burcham, an infielder who played for the Yard Goats in 2018 and 2019, is currently with the Rockies Triple-A affiliate, the Albuquerque Isotopes. He had played in 134 games with the Yard Goats the past two

minor league seasons with 21 doubles, five home runs and 36 RBI. All tickets to the Team Israel exhibition games are $10 and are now on sale at the Click It or Ticket Box Office at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.

Tickets can also be ordered over the phone by calling (860) 246-4628, or online at www.yardgoatsbaseball. com.

‘Virtual rally’ to denounce antisemitism unites congressional leaders

BY BEN SALES

(JTA) — A “virtual rally” to combat antisemitism exhibited rare agreement between the leading Republicans and Democrats in Congress on the need to fight hatred of Jews.

The Zoom event, which approximately 23,000 people attended Thursday, was held in the wake of an increase in antisemitism nationwide surrounding the recent conflict in Israel and Gaza. Jews have been assaulted and synagogues and other Jewish establishments vandalized in cities across the country.

The event, which was organized by the Anti-Defamation League as well as all four major Jewish religious movements and other leading Jewish groups, was devoid of the partisan battles that have often accompanied accusations of antisemitism in recent years. A representative for President Joe Biden touted his administration’s actions to fight hate, and Republicans mentioned a bill they’ve proposed to combat antisemitism, but neither side called out the other by name.

Instead, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell all denounced antisemitism using largely similar messaging.

“In the last few weeks we have seen a disturbing spike in bigotry and violence against Jewish communities across the country and around the world,” Pelosi said. “This hatred is horrific and heartbreaking. We must not hesitate to

call it for what it is: antisemitism.”

McCarthy vowed that “the monsters who are attacking Jewish Americans [will] face swift, durable justice.” Schumer said “antisemitism is vile, reprehensible and countering everything that America stands for.” McConnell said “the modern world knows too well what happens when this evil is met with silence.”

The event featured a roster of politicians, celebrities and religious leaders, from NBA Hall-of-Famer Ray Allen to Timothy Dolan, the Catholic archbishop of New York, who spoke while standing next to a menorah. There were representatives of organizations representing Black, Latino, Chinese, Muslim and Indian Americans, among others. Several of the speakers emphasized the need to root out all forms of hate, an approach that some have criticized for diminishing the unique problem of antisemitism.

There have been smaller in-person rallies in support of Israel and against antisemitism in recent weeks as well.

Some speakers lamented that, after years of rising antisemitism, these gatherings were still necessary.

“I wish we didn’t have to be here, rallying in defense of Jewish communities around the world and right here in our own country,” said Rep. Ted Deutch of Florida, who is Jewish. “But we do. We always do, because none of us will remain silent as Jews are intimidated, threatened, attacked and even killed because of who we are.”

Find us online: jewishledger.com | JUNE 4, 2021

jewishledger.com

Friendship Circle CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

interacting on Zoom was not a viable option.

“For some children they really do need to have in-person interaction, and some [volunteers] were willing to mteet in person,” said Krulewitz, who laughed recalling a Sunday during last winter when she accompanied some teens to a participant’s house to shoot some hoops outside for 30 minutes in 25 degree weather.

“It was really important to them that they were able to still see their friends, but it was really important for the teens too, because their lives were also shook up.”

Marking b’nai mitzvah Besides Rogers Park’s music, the June 6 event will also allow Friendship Circle to honor the young people who were not able to properly mark their bar/bat mitzvah milestones over the past year due to Covid.

An anonymous donor has given Friendship Circle funding for special b’nai mitzvah gifts for teens from the community who were not able to adequately celebrate their b’nai mitzvah. This includes siddurim for the boys and candlesticks and mezuzot for the girls.

At the concert, a video highlighting Friendship Circle and its effort to fight isolation over the past year will be screened.

One of the subjects of the video is Keighan Kosminoff.

Last spring Keighan was supposed to celebrate his bar mitzvah, but due to Covid, that was cancelled.

“It was his first big social experience and first Jewish experience. He still struggles with reading and so I never really got him involved in religion until the Friendship Circle,” said his mother Karen. “He worked really hard with Rabbi Shaya Gopin to prepare for the bar mitzvah and so that was a very big disappointment for him.”

One of the most exciting things about preparing for his bar mitzvah, Karen said, was planning for his mitzvah project – a lemonade stand to raise money to buy toys for the Mandell JCC. “That is where he used to have his buddy sessions,” Karen explained. “He was there every week playing with the toys and he decided he wanted to buy some more toys with via this lemonade stand. He and his friendship circle friends made a big sign and that was going to be part of him celebrating his bar mitzvah, and obviously that didn’t happen last year.”

When Keighan arrived at the Friendship Circle Music Circle event, held this May 2 outdoors on the grounds of the New England Jewish Academy in West Hartford, Keighan was surprised by a little birthday celebration with cupcakes and lots of birthday wishes from Friendship Circle jewishledger.com

ROGERS PARK

participants. Rabbi Gopin added another surprise element to the outdoor, sociallydistanced music program.

“The rabbi made it so Keighan could have his lemonade stand,” Karen exclaimed.

“He was so excited he and his buddy could do the lemonade stand. Rabbi Shaya provided all the lemonade and different drinks. People were just asked to donate whatever they could. And so Keegan made $136 and we were able to buy seven or eight toys for the JCC.” Karen Kosimoff said things like Music Circle and the weekly Zoom sessions with his buddies has helped make Keighan feel a bit less isolated and a lot more fun this year.

“They really adapted to the situation, and it has really been Keighan’s only social outlet during COVID,” Karen said.

“It definitely made a difference in his life because we weren’t being social in person, so the sessions with his buddies have just been phenomenal for him.”

Karen said she and Keighan are looking forward to the Rogers Park concert. The musical group’s repertoire ranges from folksy originals to Hassidic melodies to some’ oldie but goodies.’ Known as the Jewish music version of Simon and Garfunkel. They focus on harmonic anomalies with a blend of folk and rock.

“I’m sure there will be a lot of fun,” Karen said. “It will be nice to get out of the house and be with a lot of people. I think Keighan is probably going to get up and dance.”

FUN, FRIENDS, FOREVER CT’s Premier Jewish Co-ed Overnight Summer Camp

The Rogers Park concert will held Sunday, June 6, at 3 p.m. in the West Hartford Town Hall parking lot, 50 South Main St. Covidsafe seating and drive-in options available. Tickets: $36/adults; $18/ children. For reservations, visit friendshipcirclect.com/celebrate, email info@friendshipcirclect.com, or call (860) 833-4035.

For more information or a personal guided tour, please contact us.

463 Summer Hill Rd. Madison, CT PART OF THE 2018-19 BEMA CONCERT SERIES www.laurelwood.org 2626203.421.3736 ALBANY AVENUE • WEST HARTFORD • 860.233.9696 JEWISH LEDGER

|

JUNE 4, 2021

7

BULLETIN BOARD Celebrating Yosl – Joe Papp at 100 NEW YORK, New York – He revolutionized theater as we know it today and now the late Joe Papp, born ‘Yosl Papirofsky,’ will be the subject of a major memorial commemoration on what would have been his centennial birthday on June 22. The tribute will be presented by YI Love Jewish (a division of Yiddishkayt Initiative).

“Celebrating Yosl – Joe Papp at 100” will be hosted by YI founder and CEO, world renowned actor and Jewish cultural activist Avi Hoffman, who was mentored

by Joe Papp in the 1980’s. The full day of events will feature live, virtual and prerecorded performances starting at 11 a.m. and continuing into the evening. In the spirit of Papp’s visionary free-Shakespeare in the Park, most of the day’s events will be free of charge, with the exception of an exclusive, celebrity-filled gala and reception, at 7 p.m.

was used for creating a new dynamic way of producing plays in a workshop-style manner that had never been tried before.

The most famous Broadway shows to evolve from these workshops include the original productions of “Hair,” “A Chorus Line,” and “Runaways,” among the over 700 shows that Joe Papp produced and developed, as well as modern blockbusters like “Hamilton.”

Papp also helped to develop other offBroadway experimental theaters, worked to preserve the historic Broadway Theatre District and was considered one of the most philanthropic providers of inner city access to the arts.

During the 1980s, the Hoffmans told Papp they’d like to create a Yiddish theater with him. His response: “Let’s create a Joseph Papp Yiddish Theatre and transform the Yiddish theatre world.”

The Hoffmans did a small production of a groundbreaking Yiddish/English musical at the Riverdale Y in The Bronx called “Songs of Paradise” (Lieder fun Gan Eydn). Papp came to opening night, loved the show, and opened it a month later at his theater in Manhattan. It became one of the longest running shows in the history of the Public Theater.

For ticket information and a full schedule of celebration events, visit: www. yilovejewish.org/papp100.

Hats off to loom knitters

“Joe Papp did more to revolutionize the world of theater than any impresario in the world,” said Hoffman. Hoffman and his mother, retired author, journalist and Columbia University Professor Miriam Hoffman, became friends and colleagues of Papp in NYC in the 1980s, when they launched the Joseph Papp Yiddish Theatre.

Papp’s vision led him in 1957 to establish free Shakespeare in Central Park. Ten years later, he created The Public Theater in the building that was formerly the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS), a haven for newly arrived refugees. The building was saved from demolition through Papp’s efforts, after a long negotiation with the City of New York.

It became the permanent home of the New York Shakespeare Festival/Joseph Papp Public Theatre (The Public) and is currently designated as a New York City Historical Landmark.

At the Public, an innovative model 8

Congregation Or Shalom in Orange is seeking volunteers to join the synagogue’s social action project to ikniw winter hats for those in need in hospitals and shelters.

Loom knitting is a relaxing and productive hobby for people of all ages and skill levels – and it will help keep those in need warm through the cold, cold winter. A win/win!

All you have to do is locate loomahat.com on YouTube, then go to Loom Knit Hat for Beginners, Step by Step Instructions. And you’re on your way! For more information or to donate acrylic yarn, contact Ruby Benarroch at (203) 843-2675.

Emergency campaign to provide medical equipment for India to fight pandemic NEW YORK, New York – The Orthodox Union (OU), the largest umbrella organization for the North American Orthodox Jewish community, has launched an emergency campaign to raise funds for much-needed oxygen concentrators for India as it fights a COVID-19 pandemic surge.

India is facing a skyrocketing number of COVID-19 cases and an over-stretched medical system that simply cannot accommodate the number of cases. This situation is magnified in rural areas, where

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

there are even fewer resources. Thousands of people are dying every day and the devastation is overwhelming. These deaths could be prevented if only the country had adequate oxygen concentrators and medical equipment.

The OU is asking member of the Jewish community to donate $18 to help India’s beleaguered healthcare system with the aim of collectively acquiring and donating 50,000 oxygen concentrators, each one capable of helping up to 1,100 people.

“We have the opportunity to participate in saving lives and we must do our part.

As the Rambam so beautifully taught, the extent of our compassion and our concern goes beyond our own community and God’s goodness extends to everyone,” said OU Executive Vice President Rabbi Moshe Hauer. “While we continue to focus so much of our energy and resources on the troubling increase in antisemitic attacks around the world, we remain mindful of the trials faced by others. As citizens of the world, it is our responsibility to help those in India during this difficult time.”

To donate, visit: https://www.ou.org/ crisis-in-india/.

Oppose resolutions to block arm sales to Israel U.S. Representative Alexandria OcasioCortez (D-NY) and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) are trying to block the arms sale to Israel that has already been approved by President Biden. Contact your members of Congress and strongly urge them to oppose these resolutions and any at-tempt to block arms sales to Israel, American’s ally and friend. To voice you opposition to this resolution, visit: take action.aipac.org.

Yiddish Book Center to open to the public on June 24 AMHERST, Massachusetts–The Yiddish Book Center has announced it will begin its phased reopening on Thursday, June 24.

The Center will be open to the public on

Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Center is home to the world’s first Yiddish museum. Designed to recall a shtetl, it is set on a 10-acre apple orchard at the edge of the campus of Hampshire College adjacent to the Eric Carle Museum in Amherst, Massachusetts.

The visiting exhibit by NYC-based, multimedia artist Steve Marcus comprises two connected exhibits. Through the Hat includes wood-carved objects that seamlessly weave together Marcus’ childhood memories of bagels and bialys, pickles and green tomatoes from the barrel, and paper-wrapped whitefish chubs with his personal journey and passion for his own roots and culture. The Golden Medina expands on this series, welcoming the viewer deeper into Marcus’ world of contemporary kosher folk art through humorous depictions of everyday Jewish life that communicate wisdom from Yiddish proverbs. The exhibit will be on view at the Center through fall 2021.

Since closing its doors to the public on March 12, 2020, due to the pandemic, the Yiddish Book Center has been and will continue to offer an ongoing series of free virtual public programs.

Its annual YIDSTOCK: The Festival of New Yiddish Music will be presented as a 75-minute, pre-recorded, virtual program on July 11, 2021. The Center’s English-language Museum Store, which can be accessed online through its website, will also be open for in-person shoppers beginning June 24.

The Center has new visitor protocols in place, and visitors must follow the most current Massachusetts travel guidelines. All visitors will be required to wear face masks while in the Center and to adhere to social distancing requirements. A self-guided audio tour will be available.

Suggested donation: $8/adults; $6/ seniors; FREE/members, students, and children.

For information and to view the events calendar, visit yiddishbookcenter.org.

B’NAI MITZVAH RYAN LEEF, son of Stephanie Weisglass and Marcus Leef, will celebrate his bar mitzvah Saturday, June 5, at The Emanuel Synagogue in West Hartford.

jewishledger.com

AROUND CT

Greenwich stands with Israel “We were more than 400 strong in our commitment to fight hate and growing antisemitism in our country and around the world,” said Pam Ehrenkran, executive director of UJAJCC Greenwich, in a letter thanking Greenwich residents who came out one evening last week for the“Standing With Israel and Against Anti-Semitism” rally organized by UJA-JCC Greenwich. Among those in joining in the rally to show their unwavering support were several dignataries, including the three Greenwich Selectmen – Fred Camillo, Jill Oberlander and Lauren Rabin.

At the Hebrew Center for Health and Rehabilitation, we understand that comfort and familiarity is a key part of the journey to wellness. We also understand that maintaining your religious beliefs and principles is fundamental in continued enrichment of life.

Our Kosher meal services allow residents to maintain their dietary requirements throughout their stay with us. At the Hebrew Center, we ensure we follow all principles of Kosher including purchase, storage, preparation, and service.

EXPRESSING THEIR SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL AT THE GREENWICH RALLY WERE (L TO R) ALICE DELIKAT, TERRI AFROMOWITZ AND JOAN MANN.

At the Hebrew Center for Health and Rehabilitation, we also offer a variety of other services and amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

THESE SERVICES INCLUDE: • Passport to Rehabilitation Program • Long-Term Skilled Nursing Care • Specialized Memory Care • Respite Care Program • Palliative Care and Hospice Services Coordination

HKC

‫כשר‬

OUR AMENITIES INCLUDE: • Barber/Beauty Shop • Café • Cultural Menus • Laundry and housekeeping services • Patient and Family education • Life Enrichment

For more information on our Kosher program, please contact: DIRECTOR, PASTORAL SERVICES - (860) 523-3800 Hebrew Center for Health and Rehabilitation One Abrahms Boulevard, West Hartford, CT 06117

L IKE U S ON GREENWICH SELECTMEN FRED CAMILLO (LEFT) AND LAUREN RABIN, HOLDING A “GREENWICH STANDS WITH ISRAEL” SIGN, WERE JOINED BY SELECTMAN JILL OBERLANDER AND HER DAUGHTER, WHO HELD UP AN ISRAELI FLAG.

jewishledger.com

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

9

OPINION

Van Morrison’s lyrical antisemitism

VAN MORRISON AT EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL IN 2010.

(WIKIMEDIA COMMONS)

BY MELISSA LANGSAM BRAUNSTEIN

(JNS) Van Morrison’s latest song comes complete with its own eyebrow-raising title: “They Own the Media.” But who exactly is “they”?

The song doesn’t specify, and Van Morrison hasn’t issued a public statement to clarify, in spite of numerous articles flagging the song’s antisemitic language.

If we look back 16 years, though, it’s reasonable to think Morrison has Jews on the brain.

As The Forward recently reminded readers, Morrison “denied back in 2005 that ‘They Sold Me Out,’ in which he sings in first-person from the perspective of Jesus, was antisemitic. That song includes the lyrics: ‘For a few shekels more, they didn’t even think twice/For a few shekels more, another minute in the spotlight’ ” and “Sold me out for a few shekels.”

That earlier song uses what Ben M. Freeman, the author of Jewish Pride: Rebuilding a People, calls the economic libel, in his new book: “Judas – a Jew – betrayed Christ for 30 pieces of silver. …

This specific framing of Jews and money was rooted in the idea that they would do anything – including betrayal for material gain. This idea was eventually

extrapolated by the Nazis who declared: ‘Money is the God of the Jews.’” And that slander apparently then found its way into Morrison’s music.

Once might be a mistake. Twice is not. A well-meaning person would be horrified by stirring an antisemitism scandal and work hard not to repeat it. Yet we appear to be witnessing round two.

Reflecting on the new song’s title, Stereogum’s March preview noted it “sure seems to be an antisemitic trope” before very generously allowing “maybe it’s satire.”

With lines like “They own the media. They control the stories we are told. Ya ever try to go against them, you will be ignored,” and “Leave it all and you’ll never get, never get wise to the truth, ‘cause they control everything you do,” it seems fair to say this is not a satirical song.

For their part, InsideHook’s March preview opined, “We’ll have to wait to find out who exactly ‘they’ is referring to in the latter, but even if it’s not relying on old antisemitic stereotypes, the idea that any singular group of people ‘owns the media’ is a dangerous myth.”

Media ownership is a dangerous myth, specifically a dangerous antisemitic myth.

UK antisemitic attacks up near 570 percent (JNS) The security arm of the Jewish community in the United Kingdom said on Wednesday,May 26, that it has recorded 294 antisemitic incidents since May 8, of which 267 were related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Middle East.

The numbers reported by the Community Security Trust (CST) represent an increase of nearly 570 percent from the days leading up to May 10, which is when the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip began, according to the British Jewish News of London.

Among the incidents were physical attacks; antisemitic emails being sent to Jewish leaders; schoolchildren, teachers and Jewish schools being targeted in antisemitic hate crimes; and people shouting antisemitic slurs, as well as “Free Palestine,” at visibly Jewish people.

CST said in one incident, a Jewish family saw three cars waving Palestinian flags and when a family member approached the convoy, “all of the occupants got out of their cars and shouted, ‘Kill yourselves, you should all die.’ One then grabbed a family member by their neck.”

There were also 26 incidents of cars – either alone or in convoys – driving through Jewish neighborhoods and waving Palestinian flags, including in London, Glasgow and Manchester.

10

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA)’s widely embraced working definition of antisemitism offers numerous examples, including “allegations about Jews … controlling the media.”

Reflecting on Morrison’s song, Rabbi Abraham Cooper of the Simon Wiesenthal Center emailed: “The lyrics by this rock legend are deeply distressing. While the word Jew doesn’t appear, its mindset is set in conspiracy mode.” That also signals a problem. People who believe in one conspiracy are more likely to also believe others, and any time conspiracy theories gain traction in a particular culture, antisemitism does, too.

Dov Hikind, founder of Americans Against Antisemitism, told me that “Individuals can sing whatever they want in their shower, but what label in this country would promote [Morrison] and think it’s OK to do that?”

That label would be BMG Music.

Curious how much of Morrison’s album was attributable to him versus his label, I inquired. A press spokesperson emailed, “Van delivered a finished record, which we then licensed, meaning we were not involved in its creation.” And in response to allegations of antisemitism, I was told, “BMG’s position on racism, antisemitism and hate is very clear. If we believed a song to be antisemitic, we would not release it.”

That’s a lovely sentiment, but it’s a weak response given how much buzz around this song has focused on antisemitism. While BMG may have been pleased the song was

“tipped to enter the UK Official Albums Chart in the Top 10,” such toxicity’s being widely heard is no cause for celebration.

Zach Shapira, executive director of the J’accuse Coalition for Justice, messaged, “The shame of Van Morrison’s song belongs not only to the famed singer-songwriter himself, who has taken a tragic turn. It also belongs to … all those who speak out against hatred from other artists but remain silent as musicians like Van Morrison … engage in anti-Jewish hatred with little consequence.

The music industry’s lack of seriousness in rooting out antisemitism is a stain on their legacy.”

Rabbi Cooper added, “When music is leveraged to mainstream hate, we need gatekeepers of music and culture to rebuke these disgusting and dangerous attacks before they become normalized.” But where are the gatekeepers, and why are they so quiet? At some point, silence conveys support, or at the very least acceptance.

Mainstream music shouldn’t be mainstreaming bigotry. Not every song a recording artist creates is necessarily worth promoting. Recording labels also have a responsibility to recognize what crosses a line, rather than contributing to, and profiting from, anti-Jewish tropes.

No matter how beautiful the melody, antisemitic words will always be ugly.

Melissa Langsam Braunstein, a former U.S. State Department speechwriter, is now an independent writer in metro Washington. jewishledger.com

There’s only one place to be seen by everyone.

And it’s FREE!

WeHaCAL WeHaCAL

Introducing West Hartford’s all-inclusive online event calendar!

List your own event by going to WeHaCal.com and click on ADD MY EVENT. For more information or to advertise on this free service, contact Donna Edelstein at 860-833-0839 or Donna@20media20.com

jewishledger.com

JEWISH LEDGER

|

JUNE 4, 2021

11

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Could Israel hold the key to solving the Parkins

BY ABIGAIL KLEIN LEICHMAN

I

t was in1917 that James Parkinson first described the syndrome now known as Parkinson’s disease – a complex, progressive neurological disorder affecting up to 10 million people. And it is fast growing in prevalence worldwide.

The disease is most often diagnosed in people over 60, more often males. Classic symptoms include tremor in about 60 percent of cases, rigidity, poor posture and slow movement.

But several decades before diagnosis, subtler symptoms like sleep disturbances and loss of smell often appear together with constipation and erectile dysfunction.

This happens because clumps of alphasynuclein protein are aggregating in the brain and autonomic nervous system, damaging dopaminergic (dopamine-producing) cells governing motor control, among other functions. Loss of dopaminergic cells eventually causes the classic Parkinson’s symptoms.

Alpha-synuclein clumping can be triggered by aging, genetic mutations, conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, environmental toxins like pesticides and lifestyle factors like smoking, exercise, diet and mood.

Worldwide, about 10% of cases have a genetic basis. While Israel’s rate of Parkinson’s is no different than in other countries, the percentage caused by genetic mutations is much higher.

“In Israel among Jews of Ashkenazi heritage, 37 percent of Parkinson’s cases are genetic,” says international expert Prof. Nir Giladi, chairman of Tel Aviv Medical Center’s Neurological Institute and co-director of the Aufzien Family Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease opened in June 2019 at Tel Aviv University.

“About 10% of Israelis carry genetic mutations that increase Parkinson’s risk.

Having a parent with Parkinson’s increases the risk three times,” says Giladi, who’s treated about 20,000 Parkinson’s patients over 30 years.

“Israel’s high rate of genetic Parkinson’s provides an opportunity to make Israel a global hub for research and development,” he says.

Some earlier breakthroughs in Parkinson’s research and treatment came out of Israeli labs.

Technion Prof. Moussa Youdim, for example, helped develop Azilect and Selegiline for treating Parkinson’s symptoms. His current company, Youdim Pharmaceuticals, is ready to commercialize the first-ever blood test for Parkinson’s diagnosis and prognosis; and is developing novel multi-target neuro-restorative drugs that can cross the blood-brain barrier.

Parkinson’s disease research is happening at every Israeli university, with a particular focus on prevention.

“The aim is to prevent the disease by detecting markers for these genes years before symptoms appear. I think it’s doable,” says Giladi.

Read on to learn more about the latest Parkinson’s research in Israel.

THE AUFZIEN FAMILY CENTER FOR THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

More than 40 scientists study molecular, genetic, physiological and genetic elements of Parkinson’s disease at Aufzien.

“We provide an organizational and

funding umbrella so researchers and clinicians can work together and find solutions faster,” says co-director Prof.

Karen B. Avraham, a specialist in genetic deafness research and vice dean of Tel Aviv University’s school of medicine.

Giladi says Aufzien “is quite a unique center combining the most advanced basic research at the university with clinical research at Tel Aviv Medical Center and community outreach through the Israel Parkinson Association to provide knowledge, awareness and country-based research.”

The center’s new website invites firstdegree relatives of genetic Parkinson’s patients to register, helping researchers develop a scoring system for risk and expected onset of symptoms.

“In the next 10 years, we hope to have tens of thousands registered and follow them prospectively,” Giladi says.

“For now, we are suggesting how to modify their lifestyle to lower risk. Exercise cuts risk 30%. A good night’s sleep, improved mood and a Mediterranean diet all have an impact,” he says.

“In the future, we hope to offer a vaccine or other intervention to protect them from further progression. Some genes decrease the risk of Parkinson’s disease, and if we can identify them, we can develop drugs using the same protein.”

Giladi says some 150 Israeli startups are developing technologies to help prevent, stop or even cure Parkinson’s. The Aufzien Center also has close ties to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in the US. On April 29, the Aufzien Center is partnering in the first Israel Parkinson’s (virtual) Conference bringing together startups, researchers, physicians, allied health therapists, and patients and families for therapeutic activities and scientific updates.

THE DOPE ON DOPAMINE

UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA’S DR. SHANI STERN, THIRD FROM LEFT, WITH RESEARCH STUDENTS RITU NAYAK, UTKARSH TRIPATHI AND IDAN ROSH. (PHOTO COURTESY OF SHANI STERN)

12

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

“Parkinson’s disease is defined by degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons. That’s the pathological hallmark,” says Dr. Claude Brodski, a renowned Parkinson’s researcher at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.

“For many years I’ve been interested in the embryonic development of dopamine producing nerve cells in the brain. My motivation was driven by the assumption that studying the origin and history of these cells will help us to better understand why dopamine-producing cells degenerate in Parkinson’s disease and how we can prevent it.”

DR. AMIT ABRAHAM WITH A MODEL OF A PELVIS DURING A PILOT INTERVENTION USING DYNAMIC NEUROCOGNITIVE IMAGERY FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE.

(PHOTO COURTESY OF AMIT ABRAHAM)

Last November, his lab published a paper in the journal Brain demonstrating that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) prevent the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in Parkinson’s disease animal models. This indicates the possibility that BMPs could be novel Parkinson’s disease drug candidates.

“In Parkinson’s disease, there are many drugs that treat symptoms but no diseasemodifying drug,” Brodski tells ISRAEL21c.

“Based on our findings in these animal models that BMPs could stop the progression of neurodegeneration, we’re working hard to bring it closer to the clinic.”

PREDICTING PARKINSON’S

Last June, a team of neuroscientists from Bar-Ilan University was one of four winners of the Michael J. Fox Foundation and Sage Bionetworks BEAT-PD data competition seeking new methods to predict Parkinson’s disease severity.

Prof. Izhar Bar Gad and his Neural Interfaces Lab approached the problem by applying signal-processing methods to smartwatch and smartphone sensor data.

The results were then used in machinelearning models to allow for patient-specific characteristics.

The lab’s long-term goal is to use the interaction between computerized systems and the central nervous system to better understand neural disorders and to create electrophysiological treatments for symptoms.

In the University of Haifa electrophysiology lab led by Shani Stern, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology is used to create neuron cell lines derived from genetic and non-genetic Parkinson’s patients. jewishledger.com

son’s puzzle?

THE NEURAL INTERFACES LAB FROM BAR-ILAN UNIVERSITY INCLUDES AYALA MATZNER, YUVAL EL-HANANY AND PROF. IZHAR BAR-GAD. (PHOTO COURTESY OF BIU)

Observing these nerve cells as they develop and age, the team looks for common traits of different types of Parkinson’s disease as well as the roles of various genes in the process.

Stern has seen pathological changes, such as a reduction in synaptic connectivity between neurons, occurring before a patient would show symptoms.

“Parkinson’s disease patients have a severe neuronal cell death that is more specific to areas in the brain that are compacted with dopaminergic neurons,” she says.

Stern is growing 3D structures that resemble one of these brain areas as a novel platform for testing possible treatments such as dopamine receptor modulators.

She aims to build an algorithm that could predict disease onset and severity at the presymptomatic stage.

MENTAL IMAGERY

Amit Abraham of the physiotherapy department at Ariel University has a new Mental Imagery and Human Embodied Potential lab studying how different types of mental imagery help rehabilitate patients with a variety of physical conditions, and enhance performance of dancers and athletes.

“For Parkinson’s disease rehabilitation, mental imagery is an innovative and promising tool,” he tells ISRAEL21c.

“Parkinson’s is a multifaceted condition mostly known for causing slowness of movement, rigidity, balance dysfunctions and resting tremor. But about 60% also have sensory and cognitive deficits that are less talked about. We thought mental imagery would address these deficits in addition to the motor ones,” he tells ISRAEL21c. jewishledger.com

During his postdoc at Emory University School of Medicine, Abraham developed a pilot intervention for people with Parkinson’s disease based on the Franklin method of dynamic neurocognitive imagery.

His goal was to correct distorted mental representations of the body that can worsen motor and cognitive deficits.

“I focused on the pelvis, spine and lower

Scientists believe constipation can be early sign of Parkinson’s disease

I

BY BRIAN BLUM

f you suffer from constipation, it might be a sign of early Parkinson’s disease.

Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany, have hypothesized that constipation – a common although not usually discussed non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s – could predate diagnosis of the neurological disease by up to 20 years.

That’s important because there are currently no therapies capable of stopping the progression of the Parkinson’s. However, if it is diagnosed early enough, scientists hope that certain therapies that have proved unsuccessful later on in the disease might work to at earlier stages.

Parkinson’s involves the buildup of tiny deposits of protein waste within brain cells called Lewy bodies (named after Dr. Friedrich Lewy who first discovered them

extremities. For two weeks, five sessions per week for two hours a day, people with Parkinson’s disease did a dynamic neurocognitive imagery protocol that included movement and imagery. We showed a wide range of beneficial effects for both motor and non-motor symptoms.”

Results were published in Neural Plasticity in 2018 and in Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2019. Abraham is now working in 1912). Lewy body buildup appears to be linked with specific non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s including anxiety, sleep disorders and the loss of the sense of smell.

Scientists have proposed that Lewy bodies kill some of the brain cells that control the healthy functioning of different parts of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract.

Because Lewy bodies are clinically inaccessible and can’t be studied directly in the brain, scientists have had to look for related symptoms – like constipation. Lewy bodies may lurk in the brain for many years before diagnosis.

The Hebrew University team, led by Prof. Joshua Goldberg of the Department of Medical Neurobiology, over-expressed a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain cells of laboratory mice. Alpha-synuclein controls gastrointestinal motility; it is also the main constituent of Lewy bodies.

The result was that the over-expression of the protein caused the mice brain cells to shrink and their electrical activity to slow down, directly affecting the physiological properties that lead to constipation. The researchers concluded that it is likely that this is also the process that occurs in

on developing a set of protocols.

Meanwhile, Bar-Ilan researcher Adam Zaidel is studying how sensory augmentation devices or sensory retraining can help Parkinson’s patients overcome their deteriorating visual perception of self-motion.

This article is reprinted with permission of Israel21c.org.

humans in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease.

“As far as we know, this is the first time that anyone has described a causal chain of events connecting between how alphasynuclein protein impacts brain cells and the early symptoms that we have long known predate this disease,” Goldberg says.

While the research is still hypothetical for humans, Goldberg is enthusiastic.

“Consider a 55-to 60-year-old patient suffering from constipation,” he notes. “We may someday design a test based on the neural changes we discovered to determine whether there is a neural factor at play which could hint to Parkinson’s… one day in the future we are confident that we will be able to identify a variety of biomarkers – including physiological ones, like the one we propose – that will allow us to definitively diagnose the disease far earlier than we are currently able.”

The results were published in March 2021 in the journal Science Advances.

This article is reprinted with permission or Israel21.org.

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

13

Briefs Report: Antisemitic acts in US soared 80% in a month (JTA) – The organization that advises U.S. Jewish communities on security matters said it recorded an 80% spike in antisemitic acts in the last month amid Israel’s 11-day war with Hamas. One of the causes, according to the Secure Community Network, was disinformation spread on social media during and since the exchange of rocket fire “There may be foreign actors spreading information and disinformation, often tied to antisemitic tropes,” Michael Masters, its CEO, said Tuesday, May 25, in an interview. “We’re seeing a clear rise in the calls for violence against the Jewish community and an uptick of attacks of violence.”

He said there has been a commensurate intensification of antisemitism on social media during the hostilities. A feature of the attacks was to link Jews and Israel to the coronavirus pandemic, in some cases by blaming Jews for the virus, in others by likening Israel to the virus. A hashtag, #COVID1948, using Israel’s founding to identify Israel as a deadly virus, seems to have had its origins in Iran, Masters said. Many of its initial uses were in Farsi, he said. The Network Contagion Research Institute, which tracks disinformation on social media, traced a sudden massive spike in #COVID1948 usage on May 12, the third day of the war. It also tracked spikes in uses of phrases like “Hitler was right,” “Zionazi” and “Kill all Jews.”

Masters said other foreign actors, including states, also may have spurred incitement.

“We’ve seen misinformation and disinformation from a number of actors overseas over the last years and it will not be surprising if some of those actors are related to the current conflict,” Masters said.

Tens of thousands participate in online rally demanding justice for Sarah Halimi (JNS) As many as 40,000 people participated in an online rally, along with leaders from France and Canada, to demand justice for Sarah Halimi, a 65-year-old French Jew murdered by her Muslim neighbor in 2017. “My mother always taught us to take responsibility. … It is very difficult for us that today, the justice system, the authorities did not assume their own responsibility,” said her son, Yonatan Halimi, adding “each of us should guarantee his own security because, unfortunately, security in France is not assured.”

Titled “Justice for Sarah Halimi: An International Movement Is Born,” Monday’s event had been rescheduled due to two weeks 14

JEWISH LEDGER

of Hamas rocket fire on Israel, followed by a series of in-person global rallies earlier in May. It was sponsored by the representative Council of French Jewish Institutions (CRIF) and the Combat Antisemitism Movement.

The activity comes just weeks after France’s highest court, the Court of Cassation, ruled that Kobili Traoré, Halimi’s murderer, could not be tried because he had taken excess an amount of marijuana and deemed not responsible for breaking into Halimi’s apartment, stabbing her and throwing her out of her apartment window to her death.

“We should never, ever forget Sarah Halimi,” said France’s former Prime Minister Manuel Valls during the online event. “This [court’s] decision hurts me, hurts us, citizens of the French Republic. It’s truly a judicial and moral catastrophe.”

Other speakers included Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, philosopher Bernard-Henri Lévy, U.N. Special Rapporteur Ahmed Shaheed and Canada’s Special Envoy Irwin Cotler. At the same time the online rally was taking place, 28 olive trees were planted in memory of Sarah Halimi at the Kfar Silver Youth Village in Israel. They were planted in the same plot where 25 olive trees were planted last year in memory of Lori Gilbert-Kaye, who was shot and killed in an antisemitic attack during Passover services in April 2019 at the Chabad of Poway, Calif.

In addition to watching the video, more than 8,200 people have signed an online petition demanding justice for Halimi.

4 Jewish Dems to colleagues: Calling Israel ‘apartheid,’ ‘terrorist’ is antisemitic (JTA) – Four Jewish House Democrats have called out party colleagues who accused Israel of apartheid and terrorism, as well a Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has likened coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust. Their rebuke was part of a letter condemning the rising antisemitism sparked by the Israel-Hamas war – the latest plea to President Joe Biden to make a priority of tackling the phenomenon.

One congressman who signed the letter, Dean Phillips of Minnesota, was chastising a fellow Democrat, Ilhan Omar, in a neighboring district, though Phillips did not use her name. “Elected officials have used reckless, irresponsible antisemitic rhetoric,” said the letter sent Tuesday, May 24. Along with Phillips, the other signers are Reps.

Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey, Elaine Luria of Virginia and Kathy Manning of North Carolina. They do not name their targets but include direct quotes of their controversial comments.

“We also reject comments from Members of Congress accusing Israel of being an ‘apartheid state’ and committing ‘act[s]’ of terrorism,” the letter said. “These statements are antisemitic at their core and contribute to a climate that is hostile to many Jews.

| JUNE 4, 2021

We must never forget that less than eighty years ago, within the lifetime of our parents and grandparents, six million people were murdered by the Nazis in the Holocaust because they were Jews. Israel has long provided the Jewish people with a homeland in which they can be safe after facing centuries of persecution.”

Omar and Reps. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York have accused Israel of apartheid, and Omar has said “Israeli airstrikes killing civilians in Gaza is an act of terrorism.”

The letter comes as Republican leaders who have criticized Greene have lambasted Democratic leaders for sparing Omar, Tlaib and Ocasio-Cortez.

Cruz to introduce legislation supporting arms sale to Israel (JNS) Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) revealed that he will introduce a resolution this week supporting the U.S. sale of $735 million in weapons to Israel, as Democrats try to block the transaction. “Next week, I’m introducing a resolution to approve the arm sales, and I’m going to fight for a vote,” Cruz said during an appearance on Fox News’s “Justice with Judge Jeanine” on Saturday. “There are a lot of Democrats in the Senate who want to play footsie, want to say, ‘Well, now, I don’t agree with that anti-Semitic language from the Squad.’ Well, let’s vote.”

The Texas senator noted that bringing bis bill to a vote would reveal if Democratic lawmakers stand firm in support of Israel or are veering to the hard left. “Let’s decide if you’re willing to send weapons to support Israel or if you’re going to sashay up to the anti-Israel left, then you need to own it, and I hope we’re gonna have a vote next week and decide which side of the line everyone stands on,” he said.

Efforts by Democrats in Congress to block the sale have been led in the House by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and in the Senate by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), with support from Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) and Mark Pocan (D-Wis.). Sanders unveiled a resolution against the arms sale on Thursday, one day after a group of House Democrats announced a similar resoluti

Ireland approves motion accusing Israel of ‘de facto annexation’ of West Bank (JNS) The Irish government has endorsed a parliamentary motion condemning the “de facto annexation” of the West Bank by the Israeli government, becoming the first European Union country to do so. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney supported the motion and condemned what he said was “manifestly unequal” treatment of Palestinians. “The scale, pace and strategic nature of Israel’s actions on settlement expansion and the intent behind it have

brought us to a point where we need to be honest about what is actually happening on the ground. … It is de facto annexation,” Coveney told parliament.

Coveney said that a condemnation of the recent rocket attacks on Israel by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas must be added to the statement before he agreed to government support for the motion. “The acts of terror by Hamas and other militant groups in firing rockets indiscriminately into Israel … cannot and should not ever be justified,” said Coveney. However, the opposition Sinn Féin party, which brought forth the motion, refused to support the government amendment condemning the Hamas rockets.

Several Irish lawmakers also submitted a motion to expel Israel’s ambassador; Coveney dismissed the proposal, calling it a “flawed idea.” In a statement, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said, “The motion that was adopted today in the Irish parliament constitutes a victory for extremist Palestinian factions. This motion distances Ireland from its ambition to contribute and play a constructive role in the Israeli-Palestinian context,” it said.

Biden administration adds $38.5 million in assistance to the Palestinians (JTA) – The Biden administration increased its assistance to Palestinians by $38.5 million in the wake of the latest Gaza war and pledged to abide by U.S. laws that would keep the money from going to terrorists.

On Wednesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined the additional funds that the administration plans to steer to the Palestinians. His statement came a day after Blinken concluded his trip to Israel and the Palestinian areas to discuss sustaining the ceasefire. Blinken said an additional $33 million would go to UNRWA, the United Nations agency that administers relief to the Palestinians, on top of the $150 million for the agency announced in April.

Also, along with another $150 million that Congress has approved for humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians for 2020 and ’21 directed to nongovernmental organizations, $5.5 million will be designated for recovery from the warring this month, including “emergency shelter, food, relief items, and health care, as well as mental health and psychosocial support for those who experienced trauma.”

Blinken said the Biden administration would abide by laws that require the money go directly to the Palestinians and not to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. The United States bans any assistance to Hamas, a designated terrorist group, and to the Palestinian Authority as long as it subsidizes families of terrorists who have killed Israeli or U.S. civilians. The Trump administration suspended virtually all aid to the Palestinians.

Blinken while in the region also formally announced plans to reopen a dedicated consulate in Jerusalem for the Palestinians, a facility that the Trump administration jewishledger.com

had closed. It’s not clear if the Biden administration requires Israeli approval to reopen the facility.

Fitness enthusiasts volunteer to escort LA Jews to Shabbat services (JTA) – Remi Franklin thought about his two communities and realized there could be a match: His pals at the gym might want to volunteer to walk with Los Angeles-area Jews who were fearful of attending services on Shabbat following attacks on Jews in the city during the latest Israel-Hamas war. The Los Angeles Times interviewed Franklin on Saturday, May 22, while he was greeting congregants at an Orthodox synagogue and asking them if they wanted a walk home. Franklin, a jiujitsu practitioner who is coordinating his volunteer effort with Magen Am, a security service for the Jewish community, told the Times a lot of friends signed up. He said his effort has recruited Jews and non-Jews, including practitioners of jiujitsu, boxing and mixed martial arts.

“We have ladies who are former dancers and gymnasts,” he told the Times.

Last week, pro-Palestinian attackers threw punches and bottles at diners at a sushi restaurant in Los Angeles. Among the volunteers Franklin recruited was Jonathan Lipnicki, who starred as a child in “Jerry Maguire” and is now a Brazilian jiujitsu black belt. He said he attends Shabbat dinners hosted by Franklin. “It’s a scary time for the Jewish community,” Lipnicki, who is Jewish, told the Times.

Antisemitism in Europe spikes (JTA) – In one of three antisemitic incidents in Berlin, a Jewish man wearing a kippah was punched in the face while antisemitic slurs were hurled at him. In Ukraine, meanwhile, a swastika was spray-painted on a synagogue, while in Spain, white supremacist and antiIsrael symbols were spray-painted on the gate of a Jewish cemetery. European cities have seen a spike in antisemitic incidents since the start of fighting between Israel and Hamas earlier this month. Despite a ceasefire, the number of antisemitic acts has not abated.

In the assault in Berlin, three men harassed the Jewish man, 41, on Saturday night, May 22, in Schöneberg Dürer Square, in the German capital’s south, Taggespiel reported, before one punched him. The victim was not seriously injured. The previous day, a group of young men were seen chanting antisemitic slogans against Jews on Helmhotz Square in the northern neighborhood of Prenzlauer Berg. Police are investigating both incidents.

On Monday, May 24, police arrested an inebriated man who had kicked people at a subway station while shouting antisemitic insults. In southern Ukraine, a rabbi in Nikolayev discovered the large swastika upon jewishledger.com

arriving at the synagogue on Saturday. In Spain, a crossed-out Star of David and the words “f–king Israel” were discovered on the gate of the Jewish cemetery of Hoyo de Manzanares, north of Madrid, Tele Madric reported.

White House meets with Jewish leaders re combatting antisemitism (JTA) – The letter went out at midday Friday, May 21, from five major Jewish organizations, asking President Joe Biden to “use your bully pulpit to call out antisemitism” in the wake of a spike in attacks on Jews since the launch of the latest Israel-Hamas conflict. By 8 a.m.

Monday, Biden was at his Twitter bully pulpit, saying “the recent attacks on the Jewish community are despicable, and they must stop.” At 4 p.m. the same day, representatives of all five organizations were on a video conference call with top staffers at the White House and the Department of Homeland Security.

The White House would not comment and the three Jewish officials who returned the Jewish Telegraphic Agency’s calls did not feel comfortable describing what the White House officials said, or naming on the record who was present.

The groups that sent the letter and which were represented at the meeting in addition to the JFNA are the Orthodox Union, the American Jewish Committee, the AntiDefamation League and Hadassah. The participants said that each of the five requests they made was addressed during the meeting.

These included nominating an antisemitism monitor at the State Department, naming a Jewish liaison, convening a summit on antisemitism, adding funds to secure nonprofits and keeping in place an executive order by President Donald Trump that combats antisemitism on campuses. The last request, having to do with Trump’s executive order, could stir controversy. Some liberal groups, including a number of Jewish ones, have expressed concern that it targets legitimate Israel criticism, and Biden has shown a tendency to purge Trump’s more controversial executive orders.

“We went through the specifics that we did raise in our letter, and they were certainly open to all of those things and indicated that they were all good suggestions and they’re working on the things that we raised,” said Nathan Diament, the Washington director for the Orthodox Union.

3 members quit after UK actors’ trade union slams Israel (JTA) – Britain’s largest trade union for actors called Israel’s treatment of Palestinians “disproportionate” and “horrifying,” prompting two Jewish actors to leave the organization. Equity in a statement Thursday, May 20, about the exchange of fire between

Hamas and Israel said it condemns the “actions of the current Israeli government over the past few weeks, both in the policing of Jerusalem and toward Gaza.” Elsewhere on its website, Equity spoke of “the terrorist activity of Hamas.”

Equity’s statement also defended a May 16 march in London to protest Israel’s actions in Gaza without referencing the antisemitic chants documented and violence against police. Hundreds of antisemitic incidents have been recorded in the United Kingdom since the start of hostilities on May 9.

The march had nothing to do with Palestinians “and everything to do with Jewish people,” The Jewish Chronicle of London quoted Maureen Lipman, a wellknown actress, as saying. Lipman portrayed the mother of the main protagonist in the 2002 film “The Pianist” by Roman Polanski. Lipman, who is Jewish, had been an Equity member for 54 years but quit the union following the statement. At least two other members left over the same issue, according to the Chronicle. They were not named. Lipman added: “Thank you, Equity, for increasing antisemitism and your deep understanding of Israeli actions.”

Brick thrown at kosher pizzeria on NY’s Upper East Side causes damage (JNS) A brick was thrown at the door of a kosher pizzeria on Manhattan’s Upper East Side early Monday, May 24, causing damage to the business’s entrance. A photo of the damage at Saba’s Pizza was shared on Twitter by a patron of the restaurant, Jewish journalist Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt.

Additional photos online show shattered glass in more than one location in front of the store.

New York City Council Member Ben Kallos, who represents the Upper East Side and is the incoming chair of the Jewish Caucus, said he frequently visits the establishment with his daughter. “The only kosher pizza place in the neighborhood, across the street where I go to synagogue, has been vandalized. This is happening everywhere,” he said. “People are in fear all over our city, and we really need to make sure that we’re doing what we can to support each and every community.”

The Anti-Defamation League said it is working with law-enforcement officials to investigate the incident. The New York Police Department recently announced that it will increase its presence in Jewish communities across the city.

Cambridge, Mass. rejects BDS resolution (JNS) The city council of Cambridge, Mass., rejected a resolution supporting the BDS movement. The resolution, Policy Order #109, was voted down after nearly sevenand-a-half hours of public testimony by

more than 300 people late Tuesday, May 25. The proposed resolution sought to direct the city manager to “review corporate contracts and identify any companies that are in violation of Cambridge’s policy on discrimination, including (but not limited to) Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Hewlett Packard Incorporated over their role in abetting apartheid in the Middle East.” The boycott was proposed by Mass Against HP, a working group of Jewish Voice for Peace, on the basis of HP’s provision of computers to the Israeli military. MAHP is supported

by Our Revolution Cambridge, Democratic Socialists of America, and Students for Justice in Palestine, all of whom cooperate with the BDS movement.

“Policy Order #109 had one clear purpose – to leverage the Cambridge City Council to advance the narrow political interests of advocacy groups whose sole purpose is the demonization, isolation and eventual destruction of the State of Israel,” said American Jewish Committee New England Regional Director Rob Leikind. According to AJC, more than 150 people spoke out against the resolution, and 250 Cambridge residents signed a letter opposing it. The letter was organized by AJC New England, ADL New England, the Israeli-American Council, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston and Combined Jewish Philanthropies, Boston’s Jewish Federation.

A substitute policy order that was introduced and adopted by the city council recognizes Israel’s right to exist and defend itself, and criticizes Hamas alongside the Israeli government.

Said Jeremy Burton, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council in Boston. “The fight against the BDS movement has grown as its proponents have become bolder, more organized, and more sophisticated than ever before. It’s up to us to remain vigilant and call out this divisive tactic whenever and wherever we see it.”

Simon Cowell pulls out as judge on Israel’s “X Factor” (JTA) – Simon Cowell, a judge on “America’s Got Talent,” has canceled his appearance on the popular show’s Israeli counterpart, “X Factor.” A source close to Cowell confirmed that “Simon won’t be going to Israel after all,” The Jewish News of London reported Tuesday. The report did not indicate why the British music impresario nixed plans to participate in the show later this year, or whether it was connected to the 11-day exchange of fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza that ended with a ceasefire on May 21. “For a number of reasons he just can’t be there in Israel to film the show now,” said the source, who was not named. “Of course he is bitterly disappointed – but it was a decision he had to take.” Cowell is Christian, but his late father, Eric, was Jewish, as is his current partner, Lauren Silverman, who recently gave birth to the couple’s first child.

JEWISH LEDGER

|

JUNE 4, 2021

15

Holocaust survivor Roman Kent negotiated billions in restitution

BY ANDREW SILO-CARROLL

HASSLE FREE LIVING There’s no place like

FEDERATION HOMES Affordable Living for Older Adults 62+ and Individuals with Disabilities 156 Wintonbury Ave., Bloomfield, CT

Call (860)243-2535 or visit us at www.federationhomes.org Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford with funding from the Department of Housing & Urban Development

Newington 860.333.9032

Willimantic 860.717.9333

2280 Berlin Tpk. Newington, CT

1548 W Main St. Willimantic, CT

(In the MedCare Express plaza-use side entrance)

(Across from Papa’s Pizza)

hello@finefettle.com

newington@finefettle.com

Good Health.

Good Condition.

Stop by to speak to one of our pharmacists about Connecticut’s Medical Marijuana Program

(JTA) – Roman Kent, a Lodz Ghetto survivor who would negotiate with the postwar German government for billions of dollars in compensation for Jewish Holocaust survivors, died Friday, May 21, at his home in New York City. He was 92.

Kent, who immigrated to the United States in 1946, was a longtime board member of the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, or Claims Conference, where he served variously as treasurer, co-chair of its negotiating committee and special adviser to its president.

In those roles, said Greg Schneider, executive vice president of the Claims Conference, Kent negotiated billions of dollars in pensions and compensation for Jewish survivors from the German government and championed survivor interests with insurance companies, German industry and Eastern European governments.

Just last year, Kent recorded a video as part of a campaign to demand that Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg remove Holocaust denial content from his entire social media network.

“Roman made himself available for every cause that we put in front of him, tirelessly giving of his time and energy,” said Gideon Taylor, pthe Claims Conference president, in a statement. “He will be remembered as an unwavering force of good will and an undeniable advocate for the global Jewish community.”

Kent also served as the chairman of the American Gathering of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Their Descendants; as president of the International Auschwitz Committee; and also as president of the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous, which assists non-Jews who saved Jews during the Holocaust.

Born in Lodz, Poland, in 1929, Roman Kniker survived its ghetto and several camps including Merzbachtal, Dornau, Flossenburg and Auschwitz. His father died of malnutrition in the Lodz Ghetto and his mother was murdered in Auschwitz-

Birkenau.

Kent and his brother Leon were liberated by the U.S. Army in 1945 while on a death march to Dachau. The brothers were reunited with their two sisters, Dasza and Renia, in Sweden following their liberation. Dasza died a few months later.

In June 1946, the brothers immigrated to the United States as part of a government program to admit 5,000 orphans. Kent lived in Atlanta with foster parents and attended Emory University in that Georgia city, going on to start a successful international trade company.

In 1988, he joined the board of the Claims Conference, which had been tasked with securing the restitution that Germany has paid through direct assistance to survivors and for educational and memorial programs.

Diplomat Stuart Eizenstat, who worked with Kent as the Claims Conference’s special negotiator, said his co-chair on the negotiating committee “made it his personal mission to advocate for his fellow survivors to the very end, participating on negotiations calls as recently as last week.

His strength and fortitude were unmatched, and his drive and determination to see justice served knew no bounds.”

In 2016, in an interview marking UNESCO’s Holocaust Remembrance Day event, Kent warned about the abuse of language to deny the past.

“I have noticed over the years that in relation to the Holocaust in the media, there is a tendency to sanitize the past,” he said. “People say that 6 million people were ‘lost’ or ‘perished.’ They were not lost. They were not misplaced. They were imprisoned, starved, tortured, murdered and burned.

It is hard to hear but that is the truth that we must preserve to prevent the Holocaust happening again.”

Kent married Hannah Starkman, a Lodz native and fellow survivor, in 1957. Hannah Kent died in 2017. They are survived by their two children, Jeffrey and Susan, as well as three grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

No appointment necessary and consultations are always free

Offering:

• Discounts for Senior Citizens, Veterans, and Low-Income Individuals • Huge Savings through our free Fine Fettle Club • Online ordering and more at www.finefettle.com A conversation with a healthcare provider can help you determine whether medical marijuana may be right for you.

16

JEWISH LEDGER

| JUNE 4, 2021

ROMAN KENT STANDS OUTSIDE AUSCHWITZ.

(COURTESY OF JEWISH FOUNDATION FOR THE RIGHTEOUS)

jewishledger.com

THE KOSHER CROSSWORD JUNE 4, 2021 Finally!

By: Yoni Glatt

Difficulty Level: Easy

Vol. 93 No. 23 JHL Ledger LLC Publisher Henry M. Zachs Managing Partner

Curbside pick up and local home delivery available!

Leslie Iarusso Associate Publisher Judie Jacobson Editor judiej@jewishledger.com • x3024 Hillary Sarrasin Digital Media Manager hillaryp@jewishledger.com EDITORIAL Stacey Dresner Massachusetts Editor staceyd@jewishledger.com • x3008 Tim Knecht Proofreader

SHABBAT DINNER TRADITIONAL DAIRY LUNCHEON DELI SANDWICH PLATTER DINNER MENU

ADVERTISING Donna Edelstein, Senior Account Executive NonProfit & JHL Ledger LLC Media Marketing donnae@jewishledger.com • x3028 Joyce Cohen, Account Executive joycec@jewishledger.com • (860) 836-9195 Amy Oved, MA Account Executive amyo@jewishledger.com • (860) 841-8607 Trudy Goldstein, Account Executive (860) 573-1575 PRODUCTION Elisa S. Wagner, Creative Director elisaw@jewishledger.com • x3009 Christopher D. Bonito, Graphic Designer chrisb@jewishledger.com ADMINISTRATIVE Judy Yung, Accounting Manager judyy@jewishledger.com • x3016 Howard Meyerowitz, Office Manager howardm@jewishledger.com • x3035 Samuel Neusner, Founder (1929-1960) Rabbi Abraham J. Feldman, CoFounder and Editor (1929-1977) Berthold Gaster, Editor (1977-1992) N. Richard Greenfield, Publisher (1994-2014) PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT Editorial deadline: All public and social announcements must be received by Tuesday 5 p.m.

10 days prior to publication. Advertising deadline: Tuesday noon one week prior to issue.

JHL Ledger LLC and Jewish Ledger shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad for typographical error or errors in the publication except to the extent of the cost of the space which the actual error appeared in the first insertion. Publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable.

The publishers cannot warrant, nor assume responsibility for, the legitimacy, reputability or legality of any products or services offered in advertisements in any of its publications. The entire contents of the Jewish Ledger are copyright © 2021. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. JHL Ledger LLC also publishes Jewish Ledger MA, All Things Jewish CT, and All Things Jewish MA.

ANSWERS TO MAY 28 CROSSWORD

jewishledger.com

Across 1. Most popular band ever from Down Under 5. People person’s skill 9. What some anti-Semites claim Moses had (and all Jews have on their heads) 14. “Yuck” feeling 15. Kind of Torah 16. Kind of Acid 17. Love interest of Clark before Lois 18. Love interest of Simba 19. They can be picked in a conflict 20. What Moses’ head actually did, requiring him to 57-Across 23. What many feel on Tisha B’Av 24. Idan Rachel hit 25. Org. that’s certainly had its

hand full since March 2020 28. “Bro”, in Israel 31. Some hair products 34. Legendary king whose origin is likely based on Moses (seriously, look it up!)

36. Melt, in a way 38. Doesn’t feel so hot 40. One from Tehran 41. What Moses could not do in public, but thankfully we now can!

44. Alpine climbing tool 45. Josephus’s “Antiquities of the Jews”, for one 46. “And not a ___ out of you!”

47. Larry’s wife on “Curb” 49. Bursts (a balloon) 51. Jrs., eventually

52. Name of two Biblical Judges, when shortened 53. “Au revoir, ___ amis” 55. Blood letters 57. See 20-Across 63. Ancestor and daughter of David 66. Shakespeare title king 67. Something waved at many parades 68. Agnew of note 69. Kind of technicality?

70. Julia’s red friend on “Sesame Street” 71. 9-Across, in Hebrew (singularly) 72. It can be considered the last Hebrew month 73. Some (Jewish) breads

Down 1. Capable 2. Treif seafood choice 3. “___ California” (Red Hot Chili Peppers hit) 4. Shmoozes 5. Like one who probably isn’t the best singer 6. City near the Dead Sea 7. Give a ring 8. Rashida who doesn’t exactly like Israel 9. Shir ___ (Megillah) 10. Leave ou (what this clue did with “t”) 11. Exterminate 12. Efrat to Jerusalem dir.

13. Help letters 21. Simple playground game 22. “... little can ___ long way” 25. Goes after 26. Obi Toppin or Clint Capela of the NBA (on offense) 27. Baked fruit desserts 28. Top floors 29. Ballroom dance from Cuba 30. NBA legend Olajuwon (who was way more than just a 26-Down) 32. Pick up 33. “John B.” of song 35. Snare 37. Have on 39. It’s kind of a big deal in Japan 42. “Definite maybe” or “civil war,”

e.g.

43. Mr. Fix-it 48. Asher of literature 50. MLB thefts 54. A twin on “The Simpsons” 56. What one hopes for after an interview, with “an” 57. Be concerned 58. Swamp grass 59. Bad Lashon?

60. Friend in war 61. Showed up 62. Roadblocks to a compromise, often 63. “For shame!” noise 64. Subject for Jane Goodall 65. Russian space station until 2001

JEWISH LEDGER

|

JUNE 4, 2021

17

WHAT’S HAPPENING Jewish organizations are invited to submit their upcoming events to the our What’s Happening section.

Events are placed on the Ledger website on Tuesday afternoons.

Deadline for submission of calendar items is the previous Tuesday. Send items to: judiej@ jewishledger.com.

THRU JUNE 11 Art in Action: Young Artists’ Vision of 2020

Stamford Museum and Nature. Centere, 151 Scofieldtown Rd (rain date, June 3), Zoom participation welcome. Live music by Arielle Eden. Masks required and all safety precautions and social distancing protocols will be observed. Pre-packaged dinner with wine tasting, crafts, Tricky Tray and silent auction at 6:30 p.m.; followed by the program at 7:30 p.m. $95/per person before May 21; $125/after May 21. For Tricky Tray/auction ticket information, visit ujf.org.

27th Annual Jewish FilmFest of Eastern CT

TUESDAY, JUNE 1

SUNDAY, JUNE 6

Happier No Matter What: 30 minutes with professor Tal Ben-Shahar

Friendship Circle Celebration

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2 Spring Dinner with Jean Chatzky United Jewish Federation Women’s Philanthropy will host its Spring Dinner featuring guest speaker Jean Chatzky, CEO of HerMoney.com and host of the podcast HerMoney with Jean Chatzky, on June 2 at 18

Brexit: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead The JCC in Sherman’s Great Decisions 2021 series will discuss the topic of “Brexit: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead” on Zoom, June 15, 7 - 8:30 p.m. FREE. For more information: jccinsherman.org/greatdecisions.

THURSDAY, JUNE 17 Virtual Spring Celebration honoring Rabbi Herbert Brockman

THURSDAY, JUNE 3 THRU SUNDAY JUNE 6

The Mandell Jewish Community Center, in collaboration with the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, will showcase “Art in Action: Young Artists’ Vision of 2020,” a collection of creative work that captured the thoughts and emotions of teens from across the Greater Hartford region during the Covid-19 crisis.

During the fall of 2020, more than three dozen Greater Hartford artists, ages 13-19, submitted to the Hartford Foundation a variety of creative projects which reflected their energy and emotions during the pandemic. The artwork – in an array of art forms, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, poems and music – were subsequently featured at the Foundation’s annual stakeholder event and in a virtual gallery on the organization[’s website.

The works will be on display at the Mandell JCC thru June 11. For more information, visit mandelljcc.org.

A book talk with Harvard Professor Tal BenShahar, a trailblazing positive psychologist, serial entrepreneur and New York Times bestselling author who will discuss his new book Happier No Matter What. Presented by UJA-JCC Greenwich, in conjunction with the Jewish Book Council, on June 1 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit uja-jcc. org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 15

“They Ain’t Ready for Me,” a feature-length documentary about Tamar Manasseh, the African American mother and rabbinical student who is leading the fight against senseless killings on the south side of Chicago, will screen online at the 27th Annual Jewish FilmFest of Eastern CT on June 3 - 6.

Tamar, who is both authentically Jewish and authentically Black, brings an understanding of both communities, even as she struggles for acceptance in the Jewish world. Screening will followed by director Brad Rothschild and Tamar Manasseh on June 6, 7:30 p.m. Movie link will be available to view from Thursday at 12:01 a.m. through Sundays at 11:59 pm.

Admission if FREE (donations welcome).

Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit JFEC.com.

The Friendship Circle of West Hartford will host a Covid-safe concert featuring the Rogers Park Band on June 6, 3 pm, in the parking lot of West Hartford Town Hall.

Outdoor socially distanced seating or stay-in-car options available.Celebrate bar/ bat mitzvah milestones that occurred during the past pandemic year, and applaud the children, teens and young adults living with and without disabilities whose friendships endured through these challenging times. Limited space; reservations required. $36/adults; $18/children. Register at friendshipcirclect. com or email shayna@ friendshipcirclect.com.

A TALK WITH AUTHOR TAL BEN-SHAHAR, JUNE 1.

JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

PJ LIBRARY PRESENTS GRAMMY AWARD WINNER JOANIE LEEDS, JUNE 6.

Joanie Leeds live in concert PJ Library presents Joanie Leeds and her band, winners of a 2021Grammy Award for Best Children’s Music Album, on June 6, 4:15 p.m. at King Street Rehab, 787 King Street in Rye Brook, N.Y. Joanie Leeds is a national touring artist specializing in early childhood Jewish music education and a host at JKids radio. Tickets: $36/family. For more information, visit ujajcc.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 11 Singing the Standards An evening of jazz featuring the musicians Joe Canticello (piano), Niles Spaulding (bass), Bentley Lewis (guitar), Larry Davis (drums), Nathan Edwards (tenor saxophone), and Chris Vlangas (vocals/trombone). June 11 at 7 p.m. For more information or to register: jccinsherman.org, (860) 355-8050.

Reservations required: $20/members | $25/ non-Members

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 THRU SUNDAY, JUNE 13 27th Annual Jewish FilmFest of Eastern CT “Here We Are,” from Israel, in Hebrew with English subtitles, (2020, 92 minutes) will screen online on June 10 - 13 at 7:30 p.m. The story of devoted father, Aharon, who has spent his life raising his son, Uri, who is autistic.

Now a young adult, it might be time for Uri to live in a specialized home. While on their way to the institution, Aharon decides to run away with his son and hits the road, knowing that Uri is not ready for this separation. Or is it, in fact, his father who is not ready? Movie link will be available to view from Thursday at 12:01 a.m. through Sundays at 11:59 p.m.

Admission if FREE (donations welcome).

Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit JFEC.com.

Rabbi Herbert Brockman, rabbi emeritus at Congregation Mishkan Israel in Hamden, will be honored at a virtual celebration hosted by Jewish Family Services of Greater New Haven on June 17 at 7 p.m. The evening will also include a look at the impact of JFS of Greater New Haven on the community. For more info: (203) 389-5599 x110, jfsnh.org.

Book Club: “Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity and Love” Inheritance, a memoir by author Dani Shapiro will be up for virtual discussion at the first meeting of Congregation Or Shalom’s book club to be held June 17 at 7 p.m. Inheritance is the story of a woman’s urgent quest to unlock the story – and secrets – of her own identity.

Discussion led by Toby Zabinski. To register and receive the Zoom link, email coshalom@ sbcglobal.net.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 Join the Dignity Stroll UJA-JCC is sponsoring the Dignity Stroll at Cos Cob Park on June 18 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (rain date: June 25), to benefit Dignity Grows, a program that provides essential personal hygiene products to those in need.

To be part of the event you must sponsor a Dignity Pack. For more information go to ujajcc.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 17 THRU SUNDAY, JUNE 20 27th Annual Jewish FilmFest of Eastern CT “The Spy Behind Home Plate,” from the USA (2018, 80 minutes) will screen online on June 17 - 20 at 7:30 p.m. The first feature-length documentary to tell the real story of Morris “Moe” Berg, the enigmatic and brilliant Jewish baseball player turned spy. Berg caught and fielded in the major leagues during baseball’s Golden Age in the 1920s and 1930s. But very few people know that Berg also worked for the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), spying in Europe and playing a prominent role in America’s efforts to undermine the German atomic bomb program during WWII. Guest speaker: Producer/Director/Writer Aviva jewishledger.com

TORAHPortion

JUNE 11 – JUNE 29 Kempner, Sunday, June 20, 7:30 p.m. Movie link will be available to view from Thursday at 12:01 a.m. through Sundays at 11:59 p.m.

Admission if FREE (donations welcome).

Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit JFEC.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 20 THRU TUESDAY, JUNE 22 Davis Film Festival: “Here We Are” UJA-JCC Greenwich Davis Film Festival presents “Here We Are” (Israeal, drama/ comedy, 91 min.), the story of a young happily married couple desperate to have a baby.

A sincere yet painfully funny look at the pressures of family planning. Contains nudity and explicit sexual content. To register to receive a personalized Vimeo link (can only be viewed on the Vimeo site): (203)552-1818. ujajcc.org.

welcome). Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit JFEC.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 26 Benny Carter Tribute Jazz Concert This summer, the JCC in Sherman brings back its annual Benny Carter Tribute Jazz Concert featuring the TJ Thompson Trio, playing the soul, jazz and Blues of Nola, Memphis and more, will be held outdoors on June 26, 7 9 p.m. (rain date: Sunday June 27, 7 p.m.)

Bring your mask and a chair! Tickets must be purchased online prior to the concert; they will not be available at the door. Limited seating available. Tickets: $20 Members | $25 Non-Members. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit jccinsherman.org, email info@jccinsherman.org, or call (860) 355-8050.

THURSDAY, JUNE 29 MONDAY, JUNE 21 Tackling Antisemitism and Bigotry with NFL star Zach Banner UJA-JCC Greenwich presents “30 Minutes with Pittsburgh Steelers player Zach Banner” on June 21. Moderated by Michael Neuman, founder of the Jewish Inspiration Foundation. In his work with Black Lives Matter, Banner advocates that communities of color must understand the Jewish experience of discrimination and seek ways to elevate themselves without “stepping on the backs of other people.” For more information, visit ujajaa.org Rescheduled from May,

THURSDAY, JUNE 24 THRU SUNDAY, JUNE 27

The Important & Impact of Telling Family Stories For more than two decades, along with his Emory Colleague Robyn Fivush, Prof.

Marshall Duke has been studying the positive impact on children (and adults) of knowing their family stories – the good parts and the not-so-good parts. This FREE virtual talk will describe their research and bring participants up-to-date on the relationship between knowledge of family stories and psychological resilience. It will be held June 29 at 7 p.m. and hosted by United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien.

To register, visit ujf.org/story. www.ujf.org/ story. For more information, contact Sharon Franklin at sharon@ Tujf.org.

27th Annual Jewish FilmFest of Eastern CT “Crescendo” (from Germany, with English subtitles, 2020, 106 minutes) will screen June 24 - 27 at 7:30 p.m. It tell the story of a renowned conductor who assembles an orchestra of Israeli and Palestinian youth, only to be drawn into a tempest of distrust and discord. For personal reasons, maestro Eduardo Sporck agrees to arrange a symbolic concert for a Middle East peace summit in Italy. But as auditions begin in Tel Aviv, conflict between the factions flares up, and it takes all the conductor’s skills to get his musicians in harmony. An impressive cast of Israeli and Palestinian non-actors, lends authenticity to this powerful drama, loosely inspired by Daniel Barenboim’s West-Eastern Divan Orchestra. Guest speaker: Screenwriter Stephen Glantz, Sunday, June 27, 7:30 pm.

Movie link will be available to view from Thursday at 12:01 a.m. through Sundays at 11:59 p.m. Admission if FREE (donations jewishledger.com

27TH ANNUAL JEWISH FILMFEST OF EASTERN CT, JUNE 3 - 6.

Shelach

S

BY RABBI TZVI HERSH WEINREB

everal decades ago a group of Israeli scholars from an organization called “til Tekhelet (www.tekhelet.com) visited Baltimore, where I then resided to speak about their discovery of the authentic tekhelet, the blue dye which was used extensively in ancient times by royalty and, more importantly, to color some of the fringes of the tzitzit.

As it is noted in this week’s Torah portion, Shelach (Numbers 13:1-15:41): “The Lord said to Moses as follows: Speak to the Israelite people and instruct them to make for themselves fringes on the corners of their garments throughout the ages; let them attach a cord of blue to the fringe at each corner. That shall be your fringe; look at it and recall all the Commandments of the Lord and observe them, so that you do not follow your heart and eyes in your lustful urge…” (Numbers 15:37-39) The source for the dye which colored the cord of blue was a sea animal known as the chilazon, whose exact identity was lost over the ages so that until recent times observant Jews only attached colorless fringes to their talitot.

But in the 20th century, Rabbi Isaac Herzog, who would eventually become the chief rabbi of Israel, wrote a dissertation suggesting that the true chilazon was a type of snail, specifically the Murex trunculus. The scholars who visited Baltimore reported that their organization had corroborated Rabbi Herzog’s findings; and they were producing tzitzis with the proper “cord of blue.”

I began wearing the “true blue” tekhelet from that time forward. Since I began using this “cord of blue,” I experience a numinous mystical mood each morning when I wrap myself in my tallit to pray.

That same year I learned the news about the true tekhelet, I led an expedition to Eastern Europe, mainly to visit sites of Jewish significance. Tragically, most of those sites are neglected cemeteries or synagogues in ruins. My special interest is visiting graves of famous Jews, particularly the graves of great rabbinic scholars.

We visited the city of Prague and stood on line behind a large group of nonJewish tourists who were attracted to the grave of the great Maharal, allegedly the creator of the famous Golem and thus an attraction even to non-Jews. Rather than wait, I suggested we visit another famous grave, that of Maharal’s successor in the Prague rabbinate, Rabbi.Shlomo Ephraim of Lunshitz, known by the title of his masterwork, Kli Yakar. At his grave,

I vowed to familiarize myself, not only with Kli Yakar, but with its author’s entire oeuvre.

Since adopting the “cord of blue,” I began to search the sources to better understand its significance. Particularly, I was puzzled by Ramban’s insistence that it was the “cord of blue,” not at all the “cords of white,” that effectively enable us to “recall the Commandments of the Lord and observe them” and not follow our eyes’ and hearts’ and lustful urges. What’s the secret of the cord of blue’s magic?

I found many answers to this question, but my favorite is to be found in the Kli Yakar’s commentary toward the end of this week’s Torah portion. He begins with the Talmudic passage which reads, “The blue of tekhelet evokes the image of the deep blue sea, from there to the blue of heaven, and from there to the Almighty’s ‘throne of glory.’”

He proceeds to describe the grand works of nature which faithfully obey the Lord’s design. The heavens, with the sun and the moon and the stars, never fail to follow the Lord’s will. Furthermore, they do so joyously, without protest or resistance, happily and out of love.

The sea behaves differently. Its waves strive to overcome their boundaries and to deluge the shore. They are contained, however, by their fear of the Lord and not by the love they have for Him. As the prophet Jeremiah puts it, “Should you not tremble before Me, who sent the sand as a boundary to the sea... not to be transgressed? Though its waves toss, they cannot prevail…” (Jeremiah 5:22) Kli Yakar thus reminds us that there are two basic motives to religious behavior: fear or awe of the Almighty on the one hand, love and attachment to Him on the other. By contemplating the sea, we acknowledge His power to contain our “waves,” our “lustful urges.” By moving on to contemplate the heavens, we are inspired to worship him joyously and lovingly. We are then positioned to stand before His “throne of glory.”

There are many paths open to us in our search for spirituality. The “cord of blue” provides us with one easy path–the color blue, and only the color blue, prompts us to contemplate the deep blue sea and the blue of heaven.

I can’t assure you that you will glimpse the Almighty’s “throne of glory” the instant you begin to wear the “cord of blue.” But I encourage you nevertheless to wear tekhelet, contemplate both the sea and the heavens, and patiently await the next glorious spiritual achievement.

JEWISH LEDGER

|

JUNE 4, 2021

19

OBITUARIES children, Paula and her husband Ira, Eric and his wife Deborah, and Martha; her grandchildren, Zoe, Hannah, Roxanne and Margo; and her loving companion, Carl Yohans.

KINYON Laura R. Kinyon, 64, of Avon, died May 23.

She was the wife of Rick Kinyon. Born in Harrison, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Al and Ruth Edelstein. She was also predeceased by her brother Dick Edelstein.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son Asher; her brother Charles (Tuck) Edelstein; her sister-in-law Joyce Lawler; and her nephew Miles Edelstein.

KIRSCHENBAUM Frances Engel Kirschenbaum of Orange died May 14. Raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., she was the widow of Jack Martin Kirschenbaum. She was the daughter of Phillip and Mollie Engel. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Bernie and Nat Engel. She is survived by her children, Lisa Kirschenbaum Kandrach and her husband John, and Peter Kirschenbaum and his wife Christine; and her grandchildren Melissa Kandrach, Samuel Kirschenbaum and Andrew Kirschenbaum.

MILLER Donald (Don) Miller, 89, died May 24 in New Haven. He was the widower of Sybil Miller. Born in New Haven, he was the son of the late Beatrice Miller. He was also predeceased by his brother Burton Miller. He was also a past president of Congregation B’nai Jacob in Woodbridge.

He is survived by his children, Bill Miller and his wife Joanna, Bob Miller and his wife Sue Ireland, Ken Miller and his wife Karyn, and Sue Barstein and his wife Irwin; his sister-in-law of Audrey Neumann and her husband Bob; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

LAPIDUS Nihla Mae (Libby) Lapidus, 89, of Middletown, died May 23. She was the widow of Robert (RJ) Lapidus. Born in Hartford, she was the daughter of Samuel and Sylvia Libby. She was also predeceased by her sister Marilyn Fried and her husband John. She is survived by her sisters, Gail Freedman, and Diane Schwartz and her husband Ed; her sons, Marc, David and his wife Fotoulla Nicole; her grandchildren, Zachary and his fiancé Jackie, Kyle, Ellie, Alex, Nicholas; and her greatgranddaughter Maya.

PARKER Ralph R. Parker, 100, of Newington, died May 23. He was the husband of the late Ruth (Bartelt) Parker. He was the son of the late Bruno and Margarette (Stensch) Pakuscher. A Holocaust survivor, he was born and raised in Berlin, Germany. He was a survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp, as well as the Todesmärsche, from which he was liberated by U.S. forces near Schwerin. He is survived by his son, Ron Parker and his wife Janice Merion; his grandchildren, Jessica and Graham Parker; and other family members. Throughout his life, he generously devoted time and attention to share his Holocaust experience with those who asked.

LESHINE Arlene Frances Cohen Leshine, 89, of Northford, formerly of Branford, died May 14. She was the widow of Zelman Leshine.

Born in New Haven, she was the daughter of the late Abraham and Rose (Sall) Cohen.

She was also predeceased by her brother William Cohen. She is survived by her

SMITH Jan Weingrad Smith, 71, of Norwalk, died May 22. Born in Stamford, she was the daughter of Murray Weingrad of Stamford and the late Louise Reback Weingrad, and step-daughter of the late Genevieve Weingrad. She was a member of Temple Beth El in Stamford. She was

also predeceased by her step-siblings, Linda Weintraub Stark, Nancy Weintraub Leferman, and Lewis Weintraub. In addition to her father, she is survived by her daughter Michelle Perry; her sister Deborah Weingrad and Christopher Campbell; her brother and brother-in-law, both of South Norwalk; and several nieces and nephews.

SOSIN Gershon J. Sosin, 93, of Bloomfield, died May 24. He was the husband of the late Jean (Silverman) Sosin. Born in Hartford, he was the son of Samuel and Yetta Sosin.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He is survived by his children, Marc Sosin and his wife Bonnie of Boyds, Md., Fern Rosenberg and her husband Alan of Canton,

and Iris Spiegelman of Bloomfield; his grandchildren, Erin Taylor and her husband Scott, Michael Rosenberg and his wife Lorie, Dana Sayers and her partner Ken, David Rosenberg and his wife Jessica, Yale Sosin and his wife Gillian and Paula Sosin and her fiancé Ben; his great-grandchildren, Noah, Alex and Natalie Taylor, Elodie Sayers and Ryan Rosenberg; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Esther Baron, Olga Bolocofsky, and Norma Miller, and his brother William Sosin.

For more information on placing an obituary, contact: judiej@ jewishledger.

Actor Charles Grodin, a resident of Wilton, was 86 (JTA) – Charles Grodin, the deadpan Jewish comic actor who starred in such blockbuster films as “The Heartbreak Kid” and the children’s movie “Beethoven,” died Tuesday, May 18, at his home in Wilton, Connecticut, of bone marrow cancer. He was 86.

Grodin was raised in an Orthodox Jewish household in Pittsburgh but became less observant in his adult years, although he and his second wife – in his words, “a nice Jewish girl from Kansas City” – observed holidays at home.

Following a series of supporting roles in late 1960s films such as “Rosemary’s Baby” and “Catch-22,” Grodin’s big break came with his lead role in “The Heartbreak Kid,” an acclaimed black comedy about a Jewish sporting goods salesman who falls for a college girl played by Cybill Shepherd. Critics praised the film as an early example of a mainstream exploration of Jewish identity, and some likened it to Philip Roth’s work.

Grodin would go on to feature in several other major comedies, notably Warren Beatty’s “Heaven Can Wait,” “Seems Like Old Times” (which like “The Heartbreak Kid” was penned by Jewish writer Neil Simon) and “Midnight Run” alongside Robert DeNiro.

He also starred in the 1992 smash “Beethoven,” a family film about a lovable St. Bernard dog.

In 1995 and ’96, Grodin hosted an eponymous news talk show on CNBC and then became a political commentator on “60 Minutes II.” He also won an Emmy in 1978 for co-writing the “Paul Simon Special” variety show. After a long hiatus from acting, he had a late career renaissance, among his roles, he played the defrauded Jewish investor Carl Shapiro in the 2016 “Madoff” miniseries about the late Ponzi schemer.

Grodin added in the 2004 interview that he tried to live “in a way my rabbi would be proud of me.”

“I try to live by religious principles, even if I don’t do the ritual,” he said.

Lichtenstein Company Maker of MONUMENTS for 4 Generations

323 Washington Ave., Hamden AT WHITNEY AVE. (opposite K of C Hall)

CALL 1.800.852.8865 • 203.287.1593 • nolanshamdenmonumentco.com 20

JEWISH LEDGER

| JUNE 4, 2021

640 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut 06105 Telephone: 860.233.2675 weinsteinmortuary@comcast.net www.weinsteinmortuary.com

An 81-Year Commitment to serving the Greater Hartford Jewish and Interfaith Community jewishledger.com

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY COLLEGE FINANCIAL AID

Coming Up Short?

Let us help you through the long and complicated process of filing for college financial aid.

With 20+ years experience, and our proven record, we will: • Increase your eligibility for aid • Complete your financial aid forms • Work with you through the entire financial aid process

We’re your #1 College Financial Aid Resource

Call for a FREE Consult 800.669.9111 or 860.683.2320

ENERGY

For maintenance on your fuel oil or natural gas heating or cooling system, call: S-1 303418 • HOD 0000962

Office: 860.728.5431 • Cell: 860-558-5948 40 Woodland Street (Rear), Hartford, CT 06105 www.deitchenergy.com

CALL US FOR OUR FUEL PRICES SERVING CONNECTICUT SINCE 1910

MASONRY

D & M MASONRY Chimney Repair Specialist

CELLARS WATERPROOFED / PATIOS / WALKS New • Bluestone • Rebuild Brick • Pointing • Concrete Foundation Cracks Repaired Servicing All Your Masonry Needs Since 1994

COMPUTER TECH

Innovate|Simplify

Professional IT Consulting Upgrade home|office equipment Networking Home Theater Website Design Photo and Music Consolidation Security Cameras

860.301.7019 • searobintech.com

Over 600,000 people will see your digital ad each month in the Business and Professional Directory.

To advertise on this page contact: Howard Meyerowitz at 860.231.2424 x3035 MATH TUTOR

DRUM LESSONS

PRIVATE DRUM INSTRUCTION All ages and levels

CHRIS BONITO 860.748.0004 BA Music Performance 20+ years private instruction References available

HOME CARE

We offer quality, loving in-home care services for families like yours.

Specializing in Dementia/Alzheimer’s INDEPENDENCE • COMPANIONSHIP • TRANSPORTATION LIVE-IN CARE • MEAL PREPARATION • HOME MAKING NURSING ASSISTANT CARE • SPECIAL CARE

Marcia Loving Care

Home Care Agency 860.461.0556 • marcialovingcare.com

23 Bidwell St., East Hartford, CT • Open Mon.-Fri. 9-5

PEST CONTROL

Online Math Tutoring College and High School Prep Teacher Praxis Certification Medical calculations (RN, LPN)

Service • Reasonable Rates • Free Estimates • Fully Insured

Contact: mathtutordamoreonline@gmail.com

Emilio N. Polce 860.432.9444 • Fax 860.432.7559 109 Strawberry Lane • Manchester, CT epolce@ecochoicepest.com ecochoicepest.com

ROOFING

TAX PREPARATION

WEB SOLUTIONS

860.930.2536 • Dan Messina

One-on-one sessions $75 Per Hour

Daniel S. Levine, CPA Certified Public Accountant

WITH ZAMAN ROOFING

You’re in Good Hands

n Roof Replacements n Roof Repairs n Gutters n Exterior Carpentry jewishledger.com

Call to schedule your free estimate today.

860.977.8042

www.zamanroofing.com

Individual and Business Tax Preparaion Low Reasonable Rates

860.729.6036

email: dansethlev@cox.net Willing to travel to residence

Web Design • SEO • Branding • Marketing UX/UI Design • Social Media Management E-Commerce • Graphic Design • Videography

860.595.2018 westhartfordwebsolutions.com JEWISH LEDGER | JUNE 4, 2021

21

CLASSIFIED

LOOK for these MAGAZINES in your INBOX!

To Place An Ad: PH: 860.231.2424 x3035 • Fax: 860.231.2485 Email: howardm@jewishledger.com

The Jewish Ledger assumes no responsibility for the product and services advertised

TRENDING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Needed, a live-in caregiver for an elderly female home owner in Bloomfield. Duties include trash out, availability at night in case of emergency - attached apartment provided at reduced rent. Applicant must submit 3 references. Call Vivian at 860301-2066.

CELEBRATIONS • JUNE SENIOR LIVING • AUG.

MARCH JUNE SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER

BLACK FRIDAY GIFT GUIDE: NOVEMBER

Kosher NEW ENGLAND

MARCH

CNA - Five or Seven Days - Live In - Seventeen Years Experience - References Available - 860938-1476.

Mary and Alex Housecleaning.

We have experience and references. We are an insured company. Please call or Txt for a free quote. 860-328-1757 or servicesam.llc@gmail.com.

NURSE SEEKING POSITION: GETTING BETTER TOGETHER! Adult care only. Live-in, days or nights and weekends.

Responsible and dedicated caregiver with medical education. Leave message: 860229-2038 No Text or Email.

Caregiver - Willing to care for your loved ones overnight - Excellent local references Avoid nursing home or hospital in light of Covid 19. Call 860550-0483.

Tricia’s Cleaning Service - Residential & Commercial Detailed cleaning for Home & Office - For Free Quote call 860477-8636.

Polish certified nursing assistant.

Twenty years experience in hospitals, nursing homes and private home settings looking to help your loved ones. Please call 860-803-6007.

JEWISH

Home Health Aide - Two Years Experience - Reliable - Livein seven days. References available, negotiable rates. Call Kwasi 774-253-5479.

FOR SALE OR SEASONAL RENTAL

Driver available for shopping & errands in the greater Hartford area. Reasonable rates, senior discount and references available. Call Ira 860-849-0999.

Caregiver looking for full time live-in job - HHA/Precursor CNA - 12 Years experience - Friendly, outgoing, dependable - Please call Janet at 412-527-9285.

CNA with 25 years experience, reliable car, live-in or hourly.

References available, and negotiable rates. Call Sandy 860-460-3051.

Two bedroom, two bath villa in Boynton Beach. Available immediately. $2800 monthly for winter season plus utilities.

Community pool, tennis and pickleball courts 561-632-6662.

WANTED TO BUY

Third Generation Jeweler - Gold & Diamond Buyer - Is Buying All Gold Jewelry - Sterling Silver Flatware Sets - Diamonds Over 2 Carats - Fast Payment Contact - mitchellrosin@gmail. com.

Collector looking to purchase coins and currency, silver, copper, and gold. No collection is too small. Will travel. Call 860951-5191 paprfred@aol.com.

Have something to sell?

Have something to rent?

Have a service to promote?

CNA - 8 Years Experience Reliable - Own Car - Live-in 24/7 - Negotiable Rates - Please call Tina 860-461-8692.

CONNECTICUT September

Compassionate Elder Companion - Driver & Cook Beth: alifeofplantsandart@gmail. com.

MASSACHUSETTS December For more information on advertising in these magazines, call Donna 860.833.0839 or DonnaE@jewishledger.com JEWISH LEDGER

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

CHAUFFEUR, WEST HARTFORD will drive you to New York, Boston, New England tri-state area. Reasonable rates.

References. Call Jeff 860-7124115.

Mikael Poreshi - Remodeling & Painting - 860-978-2505 - miki. pori87@gmail.com.

All Things

22

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Nurse (LPN, Male). 2 Years Experience in long term care.

4 Years Home Care as CNA and Nurse. Seeks Private duty.

Reliable, honest, hardworking.

860-656-8280.

| JUNE 4, 2021

P.C.A. - HHA Caregiver - 17 Years Experience - Available Live In or Live Out - Five Days a Week - Car Available - Have References - Please Call K.B. 860-796-8468.

Reach our highly qualified readers by placing your display classified ad in our digital issue with a LIVE link to your website!

Contact Leslie 860.231.2424 or leslie@jewishledger.com jewishledger.com

CT SYNAGOGUE DIRECTORY To join our synagogue directories, contact Howard Meyerowitz at (860) 231-2424 x3035 or howardm@jewishledger.com.

BLOOMFIELD B’nai Tikvoh-Sholom/ Neshama Center for Lifelong Learning Conservative Rabbi Debra Cantor (860) 243-3576 office@BTSonline.org www.btsonline.org BRIDGEPORT Congregation B’nai Israel Reform Rabbi Evan Schultz (203) 336-1858 info@cbibpt.org www.cbibpt.org Congregation Rodeph Sholom Conservative (203) 334-0159 Rabbi Richard Eisenberg, Cantor Niema Hirsch info@rodephsholom.com www.rodephsholom.com CHESHIRE Temple Beth David Reform Rabbi Micah Ellenson (203) 272-0037 office@TBDCheshire.org www.TBDCheshire.org CHESTER Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek Reform Rabbi Marci Bellows (860) 526-8920 rabbibellows@cbsrz.org www.cbsrz.org

COLCHESTER Congregation Ahavath Achim Conservative Rabbi Kenneth Alter (860) 537-2809 secretary@congregationahavathachim.org

Temple Sholom Conservative Rabbi Mitchell M. Hurvitz Rabbi Kevin Peters Cantor Sandy Bernstein (203) 869-7191 info@templesholom.com www.templesholom.com

EAST HARTFORD Temple Beth Tefilah Conservative Rabbi Yisroel Snyder (860) 569-0670 templebetht@yahoo.com

HAMDEN Temple Beth Sholom Conservative Rabbi Benjamin Edidin Scolnic (203) 288-7748 tbsoffice@tbshamden.com www.tbshamden.com

FAIRFIELD Congregation Ahavath Achim Orthodox (203) 372-6529 office@ahavathachim.org www.ahavathachim.org Congregation Beth El, Fairfield Conservative Rabbi Marcelo Kormis (203) 374-5544 office@bethelfairfield.org www.bethelfairfield.org GLASTONBURY Congregation Kol Haverim Reform Rabbi Dr. Kari Tuling (860) 633-3966 office@kolhaverim.org www.kolhaverim.org GREENWICH Greenwich Reform Synagogue Reform Rabbi Jordie Gerson (203) 629-0018 hadaselias@grs.org www.grs.org

MADISON Temple Beth Tikvah Reform Rabbi Stacy Offner (203) 245-7028 office@tbtshoreline.org www.tbtshoreline.org MANCHESTER Beth Sholom B’nai Israel Conservative Rabbi Randall Konigsburg (860) 643-9563 Rabbenu@myshul.org programming@myshul.org www.myshul.org MIDDLETOWN Adath Israel Conservative Rabbi Nelly Altenburger (860) 346-4709 office@adathisraelct.org www.adathisraelct.org

Paid Advertisers

NEW HAVEN The Towers at Tower Lane Conservative Ruth Greenblatt, Spiritual Leader Sarah Moskowitz, Spiritual Leader (203) 772-1816 rebecca@towerlane.org www.towerlane.org Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel Conservative Rabbi Jon-Jay Tilsen (203) 389-2108 office@BEKI.org www.BEKI.org Orchard Street ShulCongregation Beth Israel Orthodox Rabbi Mendy Hecht 203-776-1468 www.orchardstreetshul.org NEW LONDON Ahavath Chesed Synagogue Orthodox Rabbi Avrohom Sternberg 860-442-3234 Ahavath.chesed@att.net Congregation Beth El Conservative Rabbi Earl Kideckel (860) 442-0418 office@bethel-nl.org www.bethel-nl.org NEWINGTON Temple Sinai Reform Rabbi Jeffrey Bennett (860) 561-1055 templesinaict@gmail.com www.sinaict.org NEWTOWN Congregation Adath Israel Conservative Rabbi Barukh Schectman (203) 426-5188 office@congadathisrael.org www.congadathisrael.org

NORWALK Beth Israel Synagogue – Chabad of Westport/ Norwalk Orthodox-Chabad Rabbi Yehoshua S. Hecht (203) 866-0534 info@bethisraelchabad.org bethisraelchabad.org

jewishledger.com

Temple Shalom Reform Rabbi Cantor Shirah Sklar (203) 866-0148 admin@templeshalomweb.org www.templeshalomweb.org ORANGE Chabad of Orange/ Woodbridge Chabad Rabbi Sheya Hecht (203) 795-5261 info@chabadow.org www.chabadow.org Congregation Or Shalom Conservative Rabbi Alvin Wainhaus (203) 799-2341 info@orshalomct.org www.orshalomct.org SIMSBURY Chabad of the Farmington Valley Chabad Rabbi Mendel Samuels (860) 658-4903 chabadsimsbury@gmail.com www.chabadotvalley.org Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation, Emek Shalom Reform Rabbi Rebekah Goldman Mag (860) 658-1075 admin@fvjc.org www.fvjc.org SOUTH WINDSOR Temple Beth Hillel of South Windsor Reform Rabbi Jeffrey Glickman (860) 282-8466 tbhrabbi@gmail.com www.tbhsw.org

WALLINGFORD Beth Israel Synagogue Conservative Rabbi Bruce Alpert (203) 269-5983 info@bethisraelwallingford. org www.bethisraelwallingford. org WASHINGTON Greater Washington Coalition for Jewish Life Rabbi James Greene (860) 868-2434 jewishlifect@gmail.com www.jewishlife.org WATERFORD Temple Emanu - El Reform Rabbi Marc Ekstrand Rabbi Emeritus Aaron Rosenberg (860) 443-3005 office@tewaterfrord.org www.tewaterford.org WEST HARTFORD Beth David Synagogue Orthodox Rabbi Yitzchok Adler (860) 236-1241 office@bethdavidwh.org www.bethdavidwh.org Beth El Temple Conservative Rabbi James Rosen Rabbi Ilana Garber (860) 233-9696 hsowalsky@bethelwh.org www.bethelwesthartford.org Chabad House of Greater Hartford Rabbi Joseph Gopin Rabbi Shaya Gopin, Director of Education (860) 232-1116 info@chabadhartford.com www.chabadhartford.com

SOUTHINGTON Gishrei Shalom Jewish Congregation Reform Rabbi Alana Wasserman (860) 276-9113 President@gsjc.org www.gsjc.org TRUMBULL Congregation B’nai Torah Conservative Rabbi Colin Brodie (203) 268-6940 office@bnaitorahct.org www.bnaitorahct.org

Congregation Beth Israel Reform Rabbi Michael Pincus Rabbi Andi Fliegel Cantor Stephanie Kupfer (860) 233-8215 bethisrael@cbict.org www.cbict.org Congregation P’nai Or Jewish Renewal Shabbat Services Rabbi Andrea Cohen-Kiener (860) 561-5905 pnaiorct@gmail.com www.jewishrenewalct.org

JEWISH LEDGER

|

Kehilat Chaverim of Greater Hartford Chavurah Adm. - Nancy Malley (860) 951-6877 mnmalley@yahoo.com www.kehilatchaverim.org The Emanuel Synagogue Conservative Rabbi David J. Small (860) 236-1275 communications@emanuelsynagogue.org www.emanuelsynagogue.org United Synagogues of Greater Hartford Orthodox Rabbi Eli Ostrozynsk i synagogue voice mail (860) 586-8067 Rabbi’s mobile (718) 6794446 ostro770@hotmail.com www.usgh.org Young Israel of West Hartford Orthodox Rabbi Tuvia Brander (860) 233-3084 info@youngisraelwh.org www.youngisraelwh.org WESTPORT Temple Israel Reform Rabbi Michael S. Friedman, Senior Rabbi Rabbi Danny M. Moss, Associate Rabbi Rabbi Elana Nemitoff-Bresler, Rabbi Educator (203) 227-1293 info@tiwestport.org www.tiwestport.org WETHERSFIELD Temple Beth Torah Unaffiliated Rabbi Seth Riemer (860) 828-3377 tbt.w.ct@gmail.com templebethtorahwethersfield. org WOODBRIDGE Congregation B’nai Jacob Conservative Rabbi Rona Shapiro (203) 389-2111 info@bnaijacob.org www.bnaijacob.org

JUNE 4, 2021

23

Summertime...and the grillin’ is easy Everything you need to make a great BBQ better!

• • • • • • •

Paper Goods Condiments Soft Drinks Chips Snacks Fruits Vegetables

• • • • • • •

Chicken Beef Veal Lamb Sausages Buns Sweet Treats

The Crown Market 2471 Albany Ave West Hartford, CT 06117

860.236.1965

www.crownmarketonline.com HKC supervises the Bakery, Five o’clock Shop, Butcher Department, Sushi, Pizza and Catering.

We’re not JUST kosher...we’re DELICIOUS! 24

JEWISH LEDGER

| JUNE 4, 2021

jewishledger.com