DECEMBER 29, 2022 | 5 TEVET 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:27 P.M. Merrill IS THE VOICE Reese OF OUR TEAM FLY EAGLES FLY! Beth Or member Page 28 Jewish Exponent PHILADELPHIA Publisher & Chief Executive Offi cer Craig Burke cburke@midatlanticmedia.com Associate Publisher Jeni Mann Tough jmann@midatlanticmedia.com EDITORIAL Editor | Andy Gotlieb 215-832-0797 agotlieb@jewishexponent.com Staff Writers Jillian Diamond, Sasha Rogelberg, Heather Ross, Jarrad Saffren ADVERTISING Account Executives Alan Gurwitz, Robin Harmon, Pam Kuperschmidt, Jodi Lipson, David Pintzow, Sara Priebe, Sharon Schmuckler, Samantha Tuttle, Sylvia Witaschek MARKETING Audience Development Coordinator Julia Olaguer 410-902-2308 jolaguer@midatlanticmedia.com 7605 Old York Road, Melrose Park, PA 19027 Vol. 135, No 39 Published Weekly Since 1887 BUSINESS Accounting Manager Pattie-Ann Lamp 410-902-2311 plamp@midatlanticmedia.com accounting@midatlanticmedia.com Accounts Receivable Specialist Sarah Appelbaum sappelbaum@midatlanticmedia.com Legal Notices legals@jewishexponent.com Main Offi ce: 215-832-0700 editor@jewishexponent.com 215-832-0797 circulation@jewishexponent.com 215-832-0700, ext. 1 sales@jewishexponent.com 215-832-0700, ext. 2 classifi ed@jewishexponent.com 215-832-0749 Connect with us: CREATIVE Art Director | Steve Burke Graphic Designers | Ebony Brown, Lonna Koblick, Jay Sevidal, Frank Wagner, Carl Weigel Digital Media Coordinator James Meskunas If you’re having problems receiving your Philadelphia Jewish Exponent in the mail, and live in an apartment or suite, please contact our circulation department at 215-832-0700, ext, 1 or circulation@jewishexponent.com. 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THIS WEEK Local 6 A Year in Review: 2022 Stories to Remember 7 Machers Share Their Resolutions for 2023 8 Shir Ami in Newtown Helping to House Homeless During Holiday Season Opinion 12 Editorials 13 Letters 13 Opinions Feature 17 Wild pitch: How an Israeli kibbutznik became a coach for the Cincinnati Reds Community 22 24 26 27 Obituaries Synagogue Spotlight Calendar Around Town In every issue 4 Weekly Kibbitz 9 Federation 10 You Should Know 19 Arts & Culture 26 Social Announcements 20 Food & Dining 25 D’var Torah 28 Last Word 29 Classifi eds 17 Wild pitch: How an Israeli kibbutznik became a coach for the Cincinnati Reds On the Cover 28 Eagles Announcer Merrill Reese May Call Games for the Rest of His Life 7 Machers Share Their Resolutions for 2023 8 Shir Ami Houses Homeless During Holiday Season 19 2022 a Big Year for Jews in the Arts JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 3 Weekly Kibbitz After Trevor Noah hosts his last ‘Daily Show,’ comedians wait in wings show, “I Love You, America,” from 2017 to 2019. Handler, whose father was Jewish and who had a bat mitzvah, has hosted several talk shows on E! in addition to numerous other books and stand-up appearances. The announcement of Franken as a guest host was particularly notable as he has only recently moved to re-enter the comedy world after reluc- tantly stepping down from the U.S. Senate in 2018 following multiple allegations of sexual miscon- duct. Silverman, meanwhile, has been an active Internet presence in the last few years through her podcast and social-media accounts, and helped to popularize the controversial term “Jewface” to describe non-Jewish actors being cast in Jewish roles. Handler has courted controversy numerous times throughout her career, including favorably sharing a video of antisemitic Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan at the height of the Black Lives Matter protests before later apologizing. While plans for a permanent replacement remain up in the air, the show likely wouldn’t announce one until at least the second half of 2023, according Trevor Noah was the host of “The Daily Show” from 2015 until 2022. to reports. There’s a chance that producers could draw from the show’s current well of (non-Jewish) correspondents rather than its rotating guest hosts. Other guest hosts scheduled to take turns anchor- ing the show include Hasan Minhaj, Wanda Sykes, John Leguizamo and Marlon Wayans. Late-night TV currently has a dearth of Jewish hosts, with the strongest Jewish connections com- ing from NBC’s Seth Meyers (whose wife is Jewish) and HBO’s Bill Maher (whose mother was Jewish but hid the information from him until he was a teenager; he currently identifi es as an atheist). Stewart currently hosts the comedic news maga- zine “The Problem With Jon Stewart” on Apple TV+. — Andrew Lapin We Make It Easy To Transform Your Kitchen! 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PA HIC #PA063180, DE Contractor #2013605887, Ohio Registration #2219521, NJ HIC #13VH08343300. 4 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Wikimedia Commons As “The Daily Show” looks ahead to a future without host Trevor Noah, at least three Jewish comedians are waiting to take his place — at least temporarily. Al Franken, Sarah Silverman and Chelsea Handler are among the extensive list of guest hosts that Comedy Central has lined up to hold down the fort in 2023 following the Dec. 8 departure of Noah, who had taken over the show in 2015 after long- time Jewish host Jon Stewart called it quits. Noah, raised in South Africa, himself had a bar mitzvah and was raised by a single mom who converted to Judaism, although he got in trouble when he assumed the gig for tweets that were seen by some as antisemitic. The Jewish hosts won’t be fi rst out of the gate in the new year — that honor goes to former “Saturday Night Live” cast member Leslie Jones. But the Jewish comics waiting in the wings are no strangers to political humor. Franken enjoyed a long “SNL” career and brief stint as a progressive talk-radio host before becom- ing a U.S. senator in 2009. Silverman, in addition to her own time on “SNL”, hosted a Hulu talk ‘PASSPORT’ CHECK BUNDLE UP DIGGING IN BEAT BRADY (AGAIN) Eight-part miniseries dramatizes the story of the “angel of Hamburg.” JANUARY 6, 2022 / 4 SHEVAT 5782 — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — $1.00 LOCAL Nonprofits Revamp How They Fundraise Online efforts likely a permanent part of future campaigns. Philadelphia Vaccine Mandate Presents Challenge PHILADELPHIA INSTITUTED a COVID vaccine mandate eff ective Jan. 3 for “establishments that sell food or drink for consumption onsite,” said a news release on the city’s website. And while several owners and managers of Jewish establishments said they believe in the vaccine’s effi cacy, they are mixed on whether the mandate is needed. As Steven Nawalany, the owner of Lipkin’s Bakery on Castor Avenue, put it, the mandate is “tough.” According to the kosher bakery owner, the mandate is diffi cult not because it will require extra labor to check cards at the door. It won’t. But rather, it will be diffi cult because so many of his patrons are unwilling to even wear masks. Lipkin’s has a mask sign on its door and kicks people out if they don’t wear one. “They go to other businesses,” Nawalany said. Two synagogues are vetting finalists. Page 6 OBITUARY Cantor, Musician Paul Frimark Dies at 69 Cantor played in Jewish bands, too. Page 7 Volume 134 Number 39 Published Weekly Since 1887 Page 4 SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF LOCAL “SHABBAT SHALOM a Todos” wrote one member in the “Sephardic and Crypto- Jewish Research” Facebook group to an audience of more than 400 members, many of whom live in northern Mexico or the United States Southwest. Th e post is nestled above a query to fi nd a book on Spanish marine and navy guards published in 1954 in Madrid and below a posting of an old textbook image showing a woman facing the Inquisition in Mexico City. Th e contents of the posts to the group run the gamut, but all pertain to crypto-Judaism, the secret practice of Judaism by Sephardic Jews in Spain and its colonies during, and aft er, the Inquisition. In a time where Catholics remain the vast majority in Spanish-speaking countries and in Iberia, Jewish people in these countries remain stigmatized, though the Inquisition ended centuries ago. It’s why these Facebook groups are precious to so many people just now uncovering their Sephardic JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF medium of sound.” Th at description comes from Penn PENN LIBRARIES, the University of Libraries’ website, which explains that Pennsylvania-based repository for the the archive includes more than 40,000 Robert and Molly Freedman Jewish songs, 5,923 albums and 1,510 pieces of Sound Archive, calls it “among the most sheet music. Donated to Penn in 1998 important resources in the world for the aft er it got too big for the Philadelphia- study of Jewish culture, folklore, history, based Freedmans to house, the collection linguistics and literature through the holds Yiddish songs, klezmer music and See Crypto, Page 12 See Music, Page 13 Female Rabbis Ponder Current Challenges JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF LOCAL Synagogues Close to Finding New Rabbis The first female rabbi was ordained 50 years ago. LOCAL Page 4 Service Options Set for MLK Day In 2017, the Yiddish Culture Festival at Haverford College hosted anarchist punk band Koyt Far Dayn Fardakht. Photo by Wanyi Yang Yiddishists Search for Community to Preserve Revered Language SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF Yiddish, a language they’d hold onto for their entire lives. IN THE MID-20TH CENTURY in South “It was a time of a renaissance of Philadelphia, gaggles of Jewish children, interest for that generation of children many of whom were children of Holocaust of immigrants,” said Rakhmiel Peltz, survivors or refugees, fl ocked to Sunday a sociolinguistics professor at Drexel schools around the city where they’d learn University. “To them, the essence of their See Mandate, Page 12 — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — JCRC a co-sponsor of local programs. Page 9 CAMPS Camp Season Isn’t Too Far Off See our special section for some summer options. Page 20 Volume 134 Number 40 Published Weekly Since 1887 See Yiddish, Page 13 OF NOTE LOCAL Jewish Federation Names New Senior Executive Jeffrey Lasday to focus on external affairs. Page 4 LOCAL Perelman Hires Head of School Robert and Molly Freedman Courtesy of David Freedman Jewish Music Collection a Longstanding Labor of Love Mitchell Daar comes from NYC day school. Page 5 NATIONAL Texas Attack Was Livestreamed World tuned in to watch the horror. Page 10 Volume 134 Number 41 Published Weekly Since 1887 Sports HOF Renews Mission, Shifts Model LOCAL Disability Inclusion Goes Year-round February is the focal point of ongoing education. SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF THE PHILADELPHIA JEWISH Sports Hall of Fame is hoping for a stirring come-from-behind victory in the coming months, following a 2021 fi lled with ups and downs. PJSHOF is revamping with a new organization model, prioritizing an updated website and a series of commu- nity events that will complement the hall of fame’s annual induction ceremony. Th e organization’s board convened in December under the leadership of new chair Steve Rosenberg, former chief operating offi cer of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Former chair Stephen Frishberg left the position in October aft er a decade-and-a-half of leading the hall. According to Rosenberg, a renewed presence of the hall will continue the mission of highlighting the accomplish- ments of Philadelphians and Jews in the world of sports. “[Sports] really is something that brings people together, and there are great Jewish Page 4 OBITUARY Holocaust Refugee Jacques Lipetz Dies at 89 3G Philly founder Stacy Seltzer (center) with grandparents Sidney and Esther Bratt, both of whom are survivors Courtesy of Stacy Seltzer Next Generation Prioritizes Telling Survivors’ Stories SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF are in full swing. Th ough events continue to feature survi- DURING THIS YEAR’S International vors whenever possible, there’s a collective Holocaust Remembrance Day on Jan. 27, the understanding, even among survivors, that mission to honor Shoah victims and provide survivors have already met the last genera- educational opportunities to learn about the tion that will hear their stories directly from horrors of the Holocaust is the same, but the them. methodology is a little diff erent. “Th ey are aware that they’re not going to And eff orts to share survivors’ stories live forever,” said Mariya Keselman-Mekler, See HOF, Page 12 Psychologist bore mental scars from wartime experiences. Page 5 HEALTH See Healthy, Wealthy & Wise Section explores vaccines, taxes. Page 19 Volume 134 Number 42 Published Weekly Since 1887 Jay Spector Refl ects on Lengthy JEVS Career LOCAL Nazun Asks What’s in a Name Challah for Hunger rebrands to reflect its larger scope. JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF Page 4 JAY SPECTOR IS 73. He’s worked for JEVS Human Services for more than 40 years. He’s led the nonprofi t organiza- tion as president and CEO for the last quarter-century. So, when explaining his recent decision to retire, Spector said, “It’s time.” “It’s time to turn the reins over to some new people,” he added. “And it’s time to move on and do other things with my life.” Before doing so, though, Spector refl ected on his legacy with the organi- zation that, according to its website, helps people “lead self-determined, connected and hopeful lives that strengthen themselves, their families and their communities.” And it’s a big legacy. JEVS now serves more than 25,000 people per year, according to Spector. During his tenure, it has grown from its original mission of helping people fi nd employment to one of helping them build careers and lives. Th e nonprofi t now has partnerships SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF Zoom meetings about synagogue security all day. IN THE DAYS FOLLOWING the Synagogue administration took stock Colleyville, Texas, synagogue hostage of the security measures they already crisis at Congregation Beth Israel, Lafayette had in place — a relationship with the Hill synagogue Congregation Or Ami’s local police department, cameras, alarm Executive Director Scott Allen was in systems, security lights — and determined See Spector, Page 12 See Security, Page 13 See Survivors, Page 13 LOCAL Abrams Lands Field of Dreams Police presence at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas on Jan. 16 Andy Jacobsohn/AFP via Getty Images via JTA.org After Colleyville Crisis, Security Philosophies Widely Diff er Yardley day school obtains three acres for recreation. Page 4 OBITUARY Rabbi Howard Alpert Dies at 70 Alpert led Hillel in Philadelphia area for 30 years. Page 6 Volume 134 Number 43 Published Weekly Since 1887 Dog Facebook Group Brings People Joy OBITUARY Rabbi Simeon Maslin Dies at 90 Maslin led Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel. JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF RABBI ROBYN FRISCH offi ciates a lot of weddings and, in recent years, has noticed a trend. Around three-quarters of the couples she marries either have dogs or get them within a year, said Frisch, who directs a rabbinic fellowship for a nonprofi t called 18Doors and serves as a part-time rabbi at Temple Menorah Keneseth Chai in Northeast Philadelphia. Th e rabbi saw dogs in engagement photos and wedding photos, walking girls down the aisle and playing roles in proposals. People would tell Frisch, “Th e dog is my fi rst kid.” So the rabbi, herself an owner of two dogs, Bo and Frankie, came up with an idea: a website for dog lovers to post pictures of their furry children. Th e idea stayed in her mind for months and months. “I wanted to connect with people over dogs somehow,” Frisch said. Finally, aft er talking to friends and family members, she decided on a more seamless and activating approach to Page 4 Rabbi Also Serves as Police Chaplain Miljan Živković / iStock / Getty Images Plus State Security Grant Allocations Could Benefi t Jewish Community Th e grant, administered under the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and PENNSYLVANIA SENATORS and Delinquency, was created in 2019 under Jewish offi cials announced on Jan. 27 Act 83 as a fi ve-year program to bolster $4.5 million in budgetary allocations in the security infrastructure of nonprofi t support of the state Non-Profi t Security spaces in the commonwealth. Since its Grant Program for the 2021-2022 fi scal inception, the grant has allocated $14.5 year. million. SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF See Dogs, Page 8 OF NOTE LOCAL 1790 Letter to be Read at Mikveh Israel George Washington to discuss respect, tolerance for all. Page 4 JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF LOCAL Most Jewish organizations awarded NSGP funds will invest in cameras or survaillance equipment. Weitzman Focusing on Jews in Country Music Gary Gans provides spiritual support to the community. Page 8 CAMPS Summer Will Be Here Before You Know It Explore options with our camps guide. Page 20 Volume 134 Number 44 Published Weekly Since 1887 JEWS HAVE A LONG and storied history in country music and, for a few weeks this winter, the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History will showcase it. On four consecutive Tuesdays, starting Feb. 15 and ending March 8, the Philadelphia museum is hosting virtual programs on the subject. All four sessions begin at 8 p.m. Th ey will spotlight a variety of topics, including the Jewish tailors who helped design the genre’s famous western attire, charismatic Jewish musician from Oklahoma Mark Rubin, Jewish musician Joe Buchanan who discovered his religion later in life, and the Jewish band Nefesh Mountain that recently performed at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, perhaps the most iconic venue in country music. Daniel Samuels, the director of public programs at the Weitzman, described See Grant, Page 9 LOCAL Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia Senior Director of Security Frank Riehl (right) speaks with Sgt. William Frazier at a 2019 live active shooter training exercise. Photo by Selah Maya Zighelboim Many avoided Nazis by heading east. Leaders Ask ‘What Makes Community Secure?’ “It was like, oh my goodness, kinda- SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF sorta, ‘Here we go again’,” Riehl said. AS THE COLLEYVILLE hostage crisis “Because the Tree of Life tragedy is still evolved on Jan. 15, with gunman Malik fresh in your mind.” Faisal Akram holding four hostages in Riehl received an infl ux of requests Congregation Beth Israel synagogue, from synagogues aft er the hostage crisis, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia asking him to assess or address the Senior Director of Security Frank security infrastructure — or lack thereof Riehl couldn’t help but think about the — of their respective campuses. Pittsburgh Tree of Life synagogue complex “Th ere’s more of a sense of urgency shooting more than three years prior. when, unfortunately, there’s a major Harold Bonavita- Goldman also led JFCS. Organizations Prioritize Community Building, Interfaith Solidarity MARCH 3, 2022 | 30 ADAR 5782 OBITUARY Former Jewish Federation CEO Dies at 79 Page 6 Volume 134 Number 45 Published Weekly Since 1887 JEWISH ORGANIZATIONS ADMIT that though the increased presence of security through cameras, shatter-resis- tant glass and lighting in parking lots may be important in maintaining a secure campus, more is required to create a safe community. As much as community safety means keeping intruders out, it also means welcoming people in to foster solidarity, leaders said. “We can’t really have safety unless we have solidarity,” Jewish Community Relations Council Director Jason Holtzman said. “Th e problems or the threats posed to Jewish institutions, Jewish spaces are defi nitely a major problem, and it’s a problem that we share with other faith groups.” A 2020 FBI report stated that 81 hate crimes were reported in Pennsylvania in LOCAL Two Synagogues Hire Rabbis Newcomers take over for longtime leaders. Page 4 SPORTS “Maus” author Art Spiegelman argued that the banning of “Maus” by the McMinn County School Board was “Orwellian.” Bertrand Langlois/AFP via Getty Images via JTA.org Educators Argue That ‘Maus’ Still ‘Impactful’ in the Classroom SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF burnings that took place in Nazi Germany in the 1930s,” Lerner said. “If the pictures ON FEB. 2, IMAGES OF a book burning were black-and-white, you might not be led by a pastor in Tennessee cropped up able to know the diff erence.” across social media. Th e book burning took place in tandem To Jason Lerner, a Jewish middle school with a national conversation around book English and social studies teacher at Austin bannings sparked by the Jan. 10 unani- Mehan Middle School in Philadelphia, the mous vote by the McMinn County Board images elicited a strong response. of Education in Tennessee to ban the “It’s just eerily mirroring the book Pulitzer-prize winning graphic novel See Community, Page 12 See Secure, Page 13 CANDLELIGHTING 5:38 P.M. $1.00 OF NOTE SASHA ROGELBERG | JE STAFF Jews Recount Escape to China Page 5 See Country, Page 12 PAGE 26 — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — $1.00 $1.00 OF NOTE JEWISHEXPONENT.COM — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — $1.00 OF NOTE FEBRUARY 24, 2022 / 23 ADAR 5782 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — $1.00 OF NOTE “My Best Friend Anne Frank” doesn’t entirely live up to its promise. PAGE 18 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — $1.00 $1.00 Crypto-Jewish Descendants Connect, Obstacles Remain OF NOTE FRANKLY SPEAKING BEARD DEBUTS Season four debuts, focusing on gritty times. FEBRUARY 17, 2022 / 16 ADAR 5782 PAGE 18 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM STILL MARVELOUS MAUS FLAP Andrew Lipstein’s debut novel considers how far a writer will go to succeed. FEBRUARY 10, 2022 / 9 ADAR 5782 PAGE 14 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM LAST RESORT DEAD OF WINTER A new Temple Judea Museum exhibits considers the meaning of signage. FEBRUARY 3, 2022 / 2 ADAR 5782 PAGE 18 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM SIGNS OF THE TIMES GO TEAM USA A new art exhibit puts faces to some of the victims of the pandemic. JANUARY 27, 2022 / 25 SHEVAT 5782 PAGE 18 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM — WHAT IT MEANS TO BE JEWISH IN PHILADELPHIA — OF NOTE FACING THE PANDEMIC SNOW AHEAD? Documentary examines the life and impact of smooth jazz legend Kenny G. JANUARY 20, 2022 / 18 SHEVAT 5782 PAGE 18 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM G SHARP NEVER FORGET Graphic novel “Tunnels” considers some complicated truths. JANUARY 13, 2022 / 11 SHEVAT 5782 PAGE 18 Girls Day School Basketball Teams Have Strong Years Barrack, Kohelet teams make the playoffs. Page 6 THE LOOK Take a Look at The Look Special section highlights fashion, home trends. Page 15 Volume 134 Number 46 Published Weekly Since 1887 Local Jews React to Fred Neulander Musical JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF WORD THAT A LOS ANGELES playhouse is turning a South Jersey tragedy — Rabbi Fred Neulander having his wife Carol Neulander killed — into a musical called “A Wicked Soul in Cherry Hill” has left former members of the rabbi’s community, M’kor Shalom in Cherry Hill, aghast. In 1994, Neulander, who was having an aff air with another woman, paid two hitmen to murder his wife. He left the Reform synagogue in 1995 and was convicted in 2002. He is incarcerated in the New Jersey State Prison, serving a sentence of 30 years to life. Matt Schatz, the playwright and composer behind the musical, lived in Cherry Hill during his senior year of high school in the late 1990s, as well as aft er college and aft er graduate school. His parents still live in the township, he said. But while Schatz is Jewish and had a bar mitzvah at another South Jersey synagogue, he was never a member of M’kor Shalom. He said he decided to write See Maus, Page 13 Jared Armstrong’s mother, Lou Ellen Butler, and his father, Antonio Armstrong, hold him as a baby during a simcha event celebrating his birth. Courtesy of Jared Armstrong Black Jew Denied Israeli Citizenship Twice Shuli Karkows ky Mid-Atlantic Media acquires Jewish Exponent Page 6 is moving up at the Elkins Park-based Jewish organization JARRAD SAFFREN | JE STAFF grew up in Philadelphia, is trying to make aliyah “because it’s my right,” he said. Aft er ACCORDING TO BOTH himself and his Armstrong’s two-year basketball career rabbi, Jared Armstrong is Jewish. at Division II Slippery Rock University But according to the state of Israel, in western Pennsylvania ended, Hapoel Armstrong is not Jewish enough to gain Haifa, an Israeli professional basketball the birthright citizenship that the state team, recruited him to play because of his promises. Jewish background. Th e 24-year-old, who is Black and Israeli offi cials, though, have rejected See Musical, Page 12 MOVING TRADITIONS Page 18 See Denied, Page 13 SPRING A N N U A L ANNIVERSARY ary Annivers S A L E ANNIVERSARY ANNIVERSARY ary Annivers S A L E 555 S. HENDERSON RD KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 610.757.4000 ary Annivers S A L E 555 S. HENDERSON RD KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 610.757.4000 PhiladelphiaJewishExponent MAY 12, 2022 | 11 IYAR 5782 CANDLELIGHTING 7:49 P.M. MAY 19, 2022 | 18 IYAR 5782 CANDLELIGHTING 7:56 P.M. MAY 26, 2022 | 25 IYAR 5782 CANDLELIGHTING 8:02 P.M. 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OCTOBER 27, 2022 | 2 CHESHVAN 5783 SHOWS ENDURING SUPPORT FOR SOLDIERS CONTINUES TO DOCUMENT THE NEWS Page 36 Page 32 WEAVES A WEB OF COMMUNITY Page 40 Eliot Vogel CALLS IT A CAREER Page 27 Page 18 Call Now to Save Your Space Paul Levy honored for BRIGHTENING CENTER CITY PHILADELPHIA NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 9 CHESHVAN 5783 Best of www.johnneillpainting.com CANDLELIGHTING 5:37 P.M. NOVEMBER 10, 2022 | 16 CHESHVAN 5783 555 S. HENDERSON RD KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 610.757.4000 CANDLELIGHTING 4:30 P.M. Avi Wisnia East Kensington's Paula Goldstein Congregation Rodeph Shalom member Har Zion Temple Cantor CANDLELIGHTING 5:45 P.M. Jewish Family and Children’s Service President and CEO PAGE 23 Ilene Cetlin Lipow ary Annivers S A L E 610-664-5555 The Sign of Craftsmanship ® MAZEL TOV! 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ASSUMES A SENIOR ROLE organizer helping local underprivlaged kids TEMPLE BETH ZION- BETH ISRAEL MEMBER Shana Weiner BRINGS ASHKENAZI INFLUENCES TO THE WORLD OF SANDWICHES NAZUN’S LEADS OUR LIST OF AWARD WINNERS CARRIES ON HIS FAMILY’S MUSICAL LEGACY. JEWISH PHILADELPHIA Page 12 Beth Chaim Reform Congregation Rabbi Michelle Pearlman KEEPS A HELPFUL SPIRIT ALIVE SEE MORE WINNERS INSIDE Page 19 Page 24 Page 36 Interior & Exterior Painting Pressure Cleaning - Carpentry Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing 610-664-5555 The Sign of Craftsmanship ® www.johnneillpainting.com NOVEMBER 17, 2022 | 23 CHESHVAN 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 5:24 P.M. NOVEMBER 24, 2022 | 30 CHESHVAN 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:20 P.M. DECEMBER 1, 2022 | 7 KISLEV 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:18 P.M. DECEMBER 8, 2022 | 14 KISLEV 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:17 P.M. DECEMBER 15, 2022 | 21 KISLEV 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:19 P.M. DECEMBER 22, 2022 | 28 KISLEV 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:22 P.M. DECEMBER 29, 2022 | 5 TEVET 5783 CANDLELIGHTING 4:27 P.M. WINTER HOLIDAY MAGAZINE PAGE 17 Philadelphia's Hadassah chapter honors Center City designer Interfaith Philadelphia Executive Director Abby Stamelman Hocky FORGES DEEP INTERRELIGIOUS RELATIONSHIPS Page 27 Roberta Hochberger Gruber Page 36 THE GOOD LIFE INSIDE Merrill Reese OF IS THE OUR VOICE TEAM FLY EAGLES FLY! Beth Or member Huntingdon Valley's Bucks County's Joel Gibbs IS THE MAN OF A THOUSAND VOICES Page 28 Glenn Segal A LIFELONG ADVOCATE FOR ISRAEL BONDS Page 32 Jim Gardner Rue Landau Longtime 6ABC anchor Kol Tzedek member PREPARES FOR HIS FINAL SIGN OFF Page 27 announces run for PHILADELPHIA CITY COUNCIL SEAT Page 28 Page 28 Call Now to Save Your Space Interior & Exterior Painting Pressure Cleaning - Carpentry Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing 610-664-5555 The Sign of Craftsmanship ® www.johnneillpainting.com Building and Strengthening the Philadelphia Jewish Community FOR OVER 136 YEARS Print | Digital | jewishexponent. jewishexponent.com C all today to advertise and subscribe! 215-832-0700 | advertising@jewishexponent.com subscriptions@jewishexponent.com JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 5 local A Year in Review: 2022 Stories to Remember Sasha Rogelberg | Staff Writer A s Jews, we’re lucky enough to have at least two New Years. While we marked the begin- ning of Tishrei in September with apples and honey, hoping for sweetness and renewed spirituality, celebrating the secular New Year feels diff erent: Joined by folks from around the world, we celebrate Jan. 1 with a midnight toast and perhaps a collective sigh of exhaustion or relief that we survived another year. 2022 has had no shortage of head- lines, for better or for worse. For our last issue of the year, the Jewish Exponent is refl ecting on some of the biggest moments from the past 12 months. Female Rabbis at 50: Challenges Remain January marked the 50-year anniver- sary of the ordination of Rabbi Sally Priesand, the fi rst publicly ordained woman rabbi in the United States. Fift y years later, Philadelphia-area women rabbis refl ect on the progress that’s been made in accepting and celebrat- ing women in the rabbinate. While these rabbis have made a name for themselves in their communities and seen other women become rabbis, they still sometimes receive misogynis- tic comments from congregants. “We’ve come so far, and we still have so far to go,” said Rabbi Alanna Sklover of Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington. Leaders Ask ‘What Makes Community Secure?’ Th ough the hostage crisis in Colleyville, Texas, took place in January, conversa- tions around security in Jewish spaces continued for months. In response, Jewish leaders took advantage of the two Nonprofi t Security Grant Program rounds in the com- monwealth, a program created in 2019 following the Tree of Life Shooting the year before to provide nonprofi ts, reli- gious or not, with funds for increased security measures. For Temple Brith Achim in King of Prussia, which received grants twice 6 Garrett Stubbs joined the Phillies before the 2022 season. Courtesy of The Phillies/Miles Kennedy this year, increased security measures have led to increased feelings of safety among congregants, according to syn- agogue President Steven Kantrowitz. “Clearly, we’re safer now than we were when we started doing this about three-and-a-half years ago,” he said. “But it’s constant vigilance.” Area Jews Champion Eff orts to Help Fleeing Ukrainians When Russia invaded the Ukraine in February, the war displaced millions of Ukrainians, including many Jews, both young orphans and ailing Holocaust sur- vivors. Among the many Jewish organiza- tions in the area to respond with sup- port was KleinLife, an organization that already served a large population of Russian and Ukrainian Jews in Northeast Philadelphia. In addition to raising money to sup- port the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia’s aid eff orts, KleinLife continued their social work and cre- ated a summer camp, which served 50 Ukrainian refugee children. As summer turned to fall, KleinLife continued to provide care for these chil- dren in an aft erschool program. Many of the mothers of these children take advan- tage of KleinLife’s English as a Second Language courses, which can help non-native English speakers fi nd a job. “It’s a community of support,” said DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Children from the Mishpacha Children’s Orphanage fl ee from Odessa across the Moldovian border. Courtesy of Moussia Goldstein KleinLife Executive Director Andre Krug. Krug hopes to expand KleinLife’s ESL program and summer camp in the com- ing year. Phillies Catcher Refl ects on Bar Mitzvah’s Role in Career, Life Th ough he didn’t play in the World Series, Phillies catcher Garrett Stubbs still helped the Phightin’s make it back to the top. In a May interview, several months before Red October, Stubbs spoke about his Jewish upbringing and the infl uence his bar mitzvah had on how he plays baseball. Between rush- ing between Hebrew school for bar mitzvah prep and numerous baseball games, Stubbs learned the importance of strictness and routine. “Just that discipline of doing some- thing every single week and then get- ting to accomplish that was defi nitely a stepping stone,” he said. A Post-COVID Day at Golden Slipper Camp in the Poconos COVID was quiet in the headlines this year, with most acclimating to a new normal and learning to live with the pandemic. Golden Slipper Camp is one of many Jewish institutions doing so. Over the summer, camp appeared mostly back to how it was pre-pandemic, though with Josh Shapiro talks to supporters at a canvass kickoff in Swarthmore on Oct. 8. Photo by Jarrad Saff ren about 100 fewer campers than previous years and a pre-camp testing policy. In the fi rst session of the camp, a COVID outbreak among campers caused camp staff to pivot, keeping the groups in their smaller bunk cohorts to limit spread. When they enacted a similar policy for the camp’s second session, there were no COVID cases. Camp Director Justin Guida antic- ipates an even more normal summer in 2023, with attendance back up and with no COVID restrictions. Th e camp will also celebrate its 75th anniversary next summer, with additional programming to mark the occasion. Josh Shapiro Versus Doug Mastriano. Will the Jewish Democrat Become Pennsylvania’s Next Governor? One of the most contentious races of the 2022 election season took place in our own backyard, with gubernato- rial candidates Josh Shapiro, a Jewish Democrat and local day-school gradu- ate, facing off against Doug Mastriano, a Republican who has been linked to antisemites. With the election going Shapiro’s way, 2023 will mark the inauguration of the commonwealth’s fi rst Jewish governor since Milton Shapp in 1971. JE srogelberg@midatlanticmedia.com local Machers Share Their Resolutions for 2023 Jarrad Saff ren | Staff Writer W hat’s in a New Year’s resolution? Th e cliché is that it’s a shallow promise to better yourself — like by going to the gym more. A promise that you will inevitably break within a month or two. But this cliché can be an exaggeration. Th ose who do think hard about New Year’s resolutions oft en go deeper than resolving to make their bodies look better. Jewish Philadelphia machers, or peo- ple who are infl uential and get things done, certainly go deeper when they think about ways to better themselves in the new year. And if Yom Kippur is a time to refl ect on your sins, New Year’s is a less guilt-ridden fresh start. Th e machers are thinking of it that way. Here is what they’re telling them- selves going into 2023. Rabbi Sandra Berliner, Congregations of Shaare Shamayim in Northeast Philadelphia: “I think my personal resolution will be to listen more.” Rabbi Shelly Barnathan, Or Zarua on the Main Line: “Th e fi rst one that comes to mind is for each of us to go inside of ourselves and fi nd the best parts of us that we can lift up and bring to one another and the world.” Rabbi Nathan Weiner, Congregation Beth Tikvah in Marlton, New Jersey: “Sometimes, as a Jewish professional Rabbi David Cantor Courtesy of Rabbi David Cantor your Judaism becomes a professional experience. It needs to be a personal experience. I want it to be that for me as well.” Rabbi David Cantor, Congregation Beth El in Yardley: “I’d say it would be to remember to be curious in every moment. Whenever something is like, ‘Why on Earth,’ be curious, not furious. If something makes no sense, it’s possible there’s something you don’t know.” Rabbi Geri Newburge, Main Line Reform Temple-Beth Elohim in Wynnewood: “Read more; I want to get back into a better routine with my running; and to try not to get too stressed by starting the college search process with my son.” Jeff Brown, Philadelphia mayoral candidate: “As I look forward to the new year and refl ect on the challenges we face as a city, I’m reminded of our belief in tikkun olam — repair the world. Philadelphia is in desperate need of ‘repair,’ and it will take all of us.” Rebecca Rhynhart, Philadelphia mayoral candidate: “In 2023, I will work to help peo- ple, lift families up, create opportu- nity so our city thrives, stand up for what’s right and continue to lead with courage.” Ben Waxman, state rep-elect from the 182nd district (Center City): Rebecca Rhynhart Courtesy of Rebecca Rhynhart For Mayor “I think I want to try to contribute to the comeback that Center City and Philadelphia are starting to have. Making Philadelphia feel like a safe place to live and work and play.” Rue Landau, Philadelphia City Council candidate (at-large): “My New Year’s resolution is to work very hard using the value of tikkun olam to help heal Philadelphia. We have so many challenges in Philadelphia today — from a gun-violence epidemic to homelessness to poverty — that we all need to work hard to help reverse our status quo.” Rabbi Ira Budow, director of the Abrams Hebrew Academy in Yardley: “We’ve been in the process of build- ing a fi eld for our students. We’re hop- ing that we will get this thing done. It will give the message to the com- munity what type of school we are. Everything’s important to us.” Rachel Zivic, head of school at the Kellman Brown Academy in Voorhees, New Jersey: “Th e holidays focus on bringing light. I think we do that by being there for one another, by supporting our students and teachers and families. By celebrating successes big and small.” Eytan Graubart, executive director of the Pinemere Camp in Stroudsburg: “One of the fi rst activities we do (at camp) is based around goal-setting. I Rabbi Geri Newburge Yael Pachino Photography F TAY-SACHS REE & CANAVAN SCREENING CALL (215)887-0877 FOR DETAILS e-mail:ntsad@aol.com visit: www.tay-sachs.org Screening for other Jewish Genetic Diseases also available. This message is sponsored by a friend of Nat’l Tay-Sachs & Allied Diseases Association of Delaware Valley thought about leading that activity for 20 years. I have oft en shared the same goal. Th rough our work, we’re going to make the world a better place. And I don’t think my resolution should be any diff erent.” Jared Jackson, founder and executive director of Jews in ALL Hues: “Working on more self-awareness, self-care and time with my family. If I don’t have those, I can’t be present fully in my work.” Randi Boyette, senior associate regional director, education, ADL Philadelphia: “I will look for the people who are actively challenging hate instead of focusing on those that foment it, and I will remind myself that each of us can make a positive diff erence.” Alan Scher, CEO of the Kaiserman JCC in Wynnewood: “Th e JCC has accomplished a lot over the last year, and much of the credit goes to our tireless, committed and passionate staff . I resolve to practice gratitude, model appreciation and seek every opportunity to thank this most special asset.” JE jsaff ren@midatlanticmedia.com JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 7 local Shir Ami in Newtown Helping to House Homeless During Holiday Season T he Lower Bucks County homeless population in towns like Bristol, Levittown and Fairless Hills has grown in recent years, according to Advocates for the Homeless & Th ose In Need, a local organization that tries to help. And it has not only grown, but changed. Before COVID-19, the population con- sisted of people in their 50s and 60s with longtime addiction and alcohol issues. But today, the group includes younger people, some in their 30s, who are doing harder drugs like fentanyl. Th e growth of the local homeless pop- ulation has increased the need for help from area religious organizations. And a prominent Jewish one, Shir Ami in Newtown, is stepping up. For the entire month of December, Shir Ami leaders and members have been transforming their social hall into a homeless shelter in the evenings. When a Code Blue situation emerges, according to Bucks County authorities, or when the nighttime temperature drops to 26 degrees or below, this group of wealthier Jews springs into action. Several synagogue members prepare food, open up cots and serve dinner to the people who need to spend the night. Th en, in the morning, they lay out a quick breakfast that the locals can take on the go. Shir Ami Rabbi Charles Briskin estimates that the temple has opened its doors on eight diff erent nights this month so far. And it may need to do so for most of the rest of the month, with colder tem- peratures in the forecast for the fi nal week of 2022. Roughly eight to 10 people come in per night, and none of them are Jewish. But that doesn’t matter, Briskin said. Make your gift by December 31 to fuel the Jewish Federation’s work to: - care for people in need - create an inclusive and accessible community - foster Jewish identity - combat antisemitism - connect to Jewish communities locally, in Israel and around the world jewishphilly.org/donate 215.832.3484 8 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM The social hall inside Shir Ami in Newtown “I think the reason why Shir Ami is doing this is because we were asked,” the rabbi added. Advocates for the Homeless & Th ose in Need is based in Bucks County, and it enlists local churches and synagogues to help house the homeless population on nights when it is unsafe to stay outside, according to Karen Mineo, the organiza- tion’s executive director. In January, the Woodside Church in Yardley will pick up the task. Th en, in February, the Calgary Baptist Church in Bristol will take over. But before Th anksgiving, Mineo and AHTN needed a volunteer institution for December. So they put out a call in the Bucks County Courier Times and via email to 100 houses of worship. Phil Nordlinger, Shir Ami’s director of oper- ations, saw the article in the Courier Times and reached out to Mineo. She then contacted Briskin, who asked the chairs of the temple’s Tikkun Olam Committee, Essie Cherkin and Barbara Roth, to lead the eff ort. According to Briskin, the women “said yes before they even knew what it entailed.” So did about 50 or 60 members of the Shir Ami com- munity, who responded to the call for help from Cherkin and Roth by off ering their time. Every night this month, the Shir Ami congregants are ready to mobilize. So when Cherkin and Roth put the word out, volunteers come. Th ey set up the cots and tables before people arrive, and then they welcome them in, say a few words and get to work cooking the food. Th e dinner can either be cooked or heated up, while the breakfast is something like cereal or to-go bars. As the rabbi explained, “We serve a meal, and we schmooze with them.” Several members came by to help on the fi rst night of Chanukah on Dec. 18. “We would not have had a space. Th ey were our savior. Th ey came through for us,” Mineo said. According to Briskin, helping in this situation is in line with the Jewish value of tikkun olam, or healing the world. It’s also about recognizing “the dignity of every human being.” But as evidenced by the churches that off er their services as well, those are not just Jewish values. Th is is an eff ort that transcends any sin- gle religion. Mineo is not Jewish. But she under- stood why the Jewish residents of Lower Bucks County wanted to volunteer. “Th ey are totally in line with trying to help the vulnerable communities with dignity, shelter, food,” the executive director said. “Basic human needs.” Th ese are needs that, sadly, are unlikely to be fully met in 2023, either. AHTN is pretty certain that it will need institutions to volunteer their services next year, too. And Shir Ami leaders and members want to help out again. Briskin noted that his synagogue has more than enough volun- teers and space to handle an eff ort like this. “We hope this can be part of what we do every December,” he said. “Th e response has been overwhelmingly positive.” JE jsaff ren@midatlanticmedia.com Photo by Crystal Myers Jarrad Saff ren | Staff Writer Your Collective Impact in 2022 The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is grateful for your incredible support during another tumultuous year. From a lingering global pandemic to war and rising antisemitism, the Jewish Federation does not waver. The strong foundation upon which the Jewish Federation stands is our community, steeped in the tradition of mitzvot and tikkun olam. Helping Neighbors Near and Far Through collective and generous support, the Jewish Federation mobilizes financial resources and volunteer leadership that addresses top priorities in the community. In addition to responding to critical human needs, the Jewish Federation engages and inspires the next generation of Jewish community leaders, which is central to securing a strong Jewish community for generations to come. 2022 Impact Caring for Those in Need in Greater Philadelphia 4,400+ older adults helped to age with dignity, including 790+ Holocaust survivors 6,500+ community members provided food security 1,615+ households at or below 200% federal poverty level provided assistance Building a Vibrant Jewish Future through programs, resources and engagement opportunities in Greater Philadelphia 12,450+ parents, teens and children enhanced their Jewish identity 11,320+ young adults strengthened their Jewish identity 2,000+ individuals celebrated the diversity of the Jewish community Connecting with Israel & Global Jewry 355,000+ people served through food security grants 84,000+ people accessed social services, strengthening community resiliency 45,495+ Holocaust survivors received basic needs Emergency Response When It Matters Most The Jewish Federation continues to build a support network worldwide that can mobilize quickly when emergencies occur. Most recently, long-standing partnerships in Ukraine uniquely positioned the Jewish Federation to provide critical support to Jewish brothers and sisters in their time of need. $1.5 million raised to provide vital humanitarian work in Ukraine, neighboring countries, Israel and Greater Philadelphia $78 million raised by Jewish Federations across America to provide humanitarian aid to refugees in Ukraine and neighboring countries through organizations, like JDC, The Jewish Agency for Israel, World ORT and more than 50 NGOs The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is 1 of 6 Jewish Federations nationally to receive a grant as part of the $1 million Ukrainian resettlement initiative, helping Ukrainian refugees now in Greater Philadelphia Keeping the Jewish Community Safe and Secure The safety and well-being of Jewish communities is critical. In working to combat increased antisemitism worldwide, the Jewish Federation expanded its community security initiative with Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community across North America to provide resources for communal security to identify and proactively address potential safety threats in the area. As part of this new initiative, the Jewish Federation’s new security director provides training across local partner organizations, providing critical tools to keep the community safe. Move Forward Into the New Year jewishphilly.org/donate • 215.832.3484 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 9 YOU SHOULD KNOW ... Sasha Rogelberg | Staff Writer A mong the many moments of culture shock Avezu Fanta had upon arriving to the United States in 2019, the copious bagels present at Jewish events was just one noteworthy difference. In the three years Fanta has spent in Philadelphia as Hillel at Temple University’s Israel Fellow, the 31-year-old has since accli- mated to American Jewish culture, despite the ample differences she grew up with in Israel after emigrating from Ethiopia when she was 7 months old. “I was against bagel brunch in the beginning; now I love bagel brunch,” she joked. Bagels were, of course, only the beginning of Fanta’s exploration 10 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM of the relationship between American Jewish and Israeli Jewish cultures. During her tenure at Temple, she’s been tasked with sharing her own Israeli Jewish culture, introducing both Jews and non-Jews to Israel’s ways of life. As she begins her final semester with the Hillel in January, her mission has shifted: Temple University students, as well as most American college stu- dents, need to learn how to talk about Israeli politics. “A lot of people don’t understand how to [have] conversations about Israel, and this is why you have so much antisemitic rhetoric and lan- guage,” Fanta said. “The majority of the language that’s antisemitic, I think, it’s around Israel, and it’s around Israel because it’s ignorance.” When Fanta arrived at Temple University in August 2019, the goal of her fellowship was to bring a diverse voice from Israel to Philadelphia and to share Israeli Jewish culture with the Temple student body, as well as grow appreciation and understanding for the Jewish state. In May 2021, following an escala- tion in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Fanta’s strategy to speak with students changed. She began holding conver- sations with students, Jewish and non-Jewish, about how to engage with the conflict. Last semester, Fanta held a weekly “Kol Yisrael” class to talk about the nuances of Zionism. “The only criticism they have around Zionism is around the conflict,” Fanta said of some students. “But also it was around how we, as the Jewish stu- dents, can stand with Israel but also say, ‘We don’t support the Israeli gov- ernment and what’s happening in the West Bank.’” Fanta is familiar with bringing thoughtfulness to complex conver- sations around Jewish identity. An Ethiopian Jew raised in Israel, Fanta has her own unique perspective on syn- thesizing a whole Jewish identity. As a child, Fanta came to Israel as part of Operation Solomon, a May 1991 covert military operation in which 35 Israeli aircrafts airlifted more than 14,000 Ethiopian Jews to Israel in about 36 hours. Growing up, she and her seven sib- lings spoke little with her parents about their Ethiopian identity in the context of Israel. Her parents had dreamt for their teenage and adult lives of coming to Israel; because Fanta and her siblings had achieved their parents’ dream, they felt they were not able to complain about identity or being a minority in Israel. That’s not to say Fanta wasn’t con- flicted about her identity. As a teenager, Fanta had a “little identity crisis,” feel- ing that her Ethiopian and Israeli iden- tities were at odds with one another. When she joined the Israel Defense Forces, later to become a medic and a lieutenant, she met other Jewish Israeli minorities, including Russian Israelis who were at ease with their dual nationalities. “It’s really a part of me,” Fanta said of her Ethiopian ethnicity. “Like cultur- ally, I grew up in an Ethiopian home; I cannot disconnect from that.” Talking about ethnicity and nation- ality in Israel is different than in the United States, Fanta said. While American Jews prefer to establish dis- creet identities across denominations and ethnicities, and use language around race and oppression to reckon with the country’s racism and antisem- itism, in Israel, there’s less discourse about identity. Instead, Fanta said, identities in Israel are divided into Jewish and non-Jewish first, with further breakdowns for vari- ous minorities. Most of the time, how- ever, Israelis aren’t as concerned with the various taxonomies. That mindset is reflected in Fanta’s teaching and her interest in speaking with both Temple’s Jewish students and non-Jewish students. Her openness to talk about Israel to so many demographics is part of what has made her an effective Israel Fellow, according to Hillel at Temple assistant executive director Mallory Kovit. “She can have a conversation with anybody; she could talk to anybody about anything,” said Kovit. “She’s not going to shy away from a conver- sation.” JE srogelberg@midatlanticmedia.com Courtesy of Hillel at Temple University Avezu Fanta nation / world Menorah From Iconic 1931 Photograph Returns to Germany A brass menorah from a famous photograph taken during the rise of the Nazis made its way back to Germany for a Chanukah candle-lighting ceremony in Berlin attended by the country’s president, JNS.org reported “This light is a strong societal symbol against hatred,” German President Frank- Walter Steinmeier said. “Each of us must stand up against every form of antisemitism.” During Chanukah in 1931, Rachel Posner, wife of Rabbi Akiva Posner, photo- graphed the family menorah on the window ledge of the family home in the north German port city of Kiel. In the background can be seen the Nazi party’s regional headquarters with a large swastika flag. On the back of the photo, which came to stand for the looming threat to European Jewry, Rachel Posner wrote: “‘Death to Judah.’ So the flag says. ‘Judah will live forever.’ So the light answers.” Yehuda Mansbach, the couple’s grandson, “wept openly” after lighting the candles at Bellevue Palace, the official residence of the president of Germany, on Dec. 19. The Posners’ granddaughter, Nava Gilo, 68, also attended. Detroit Pistons Wish Kyrie Irving a Happy Chanukah The Detroit Pistons wished Brooklyn Nets star guard Kyrie Irving a happy Chanukah on Dec. 18, the first night of the holiday, JTA reported The Pistons appeared to be trolling Irving, who recently shared an antisemitic film on Twitter and initially refused to apologize. The scoreboard displayed both a spinning globe and a Chanukah graphic with a menorah while he was at the free-throw line. The former references previous comments the controversial All-Star has made about the earth being flat. The latter appeared to be a pointed reference to the recent antisemitism scandal. Irving was suspended for eight games in November after he tweeted an Amazon link to “Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America,” a documentary that promotes the false idea that Jews were heavily involved in the Atlantic slave trade, denies the Holocaust and says Black people are the real Jews. Irving initially refused to apologize but ultimately did so multiple times. German Woman, 97, Convicted of Complicity in 10,500 Nazi Death Camp Murders A 97-year-old German woman whose trial for aiding Nazi crimes was briefly derailed when she fled last year was convicted of complicity in 10,500 concentration camp murders, JTA.org reported. Irmgard Furchner was 95 when she was arrested and charged with crimes related to her work as a secretary at the Stutthof concentration camp in Nazi-occupied Poland during World War II. Tried in juvenile court because she was under 21 at the time, she was sentenced on Dec. 20 to two years of probation, in what is likely to be one of the final convictions related to crimes committed during the Nazi regime. Furchner initially resisted prosecution, fleeing by a taxi from her old-age home on the first day of her trial; she was soon apprehended. Furchner also had not commented on the charges against her until recently, when she spoke briefly during her final court appearance earlier this month. “I am sorry for everything that happened,” she said, in a statement that local news reports said had been a surprise. “I regret that I was in Stutthof at that time. That’s all I can say.” Unilever ‘Resolves’ Legal Battle With Ben & Jerry’s Board Over Israel Sales An extended legal battle over ice cream maker Ben & Jerry’s operations in Israel appeared to come to a close as its parent company announced it had reached an agreement with the brand’s independent board of directors, JTA.org reported. Unilever was embroiled in months-long litigation with the Ben & Jerry’s board over Unilever’s sale of the brand’s Hebrew and Arabic licenses to an Israeli com- pany that would sell the products in both Israel and the West Bank against the board’s wishes. Those sales will now continue uninterrupted. The terms of the agreement are confidential, a Unilever representative said. Unilever sold off the brand’s Israel license to dodge the Ben & Jerry’s board’s attempts, dating to summer 2021, to prevent the ice cream from being sold in “occupied Palestinian territories” — a move that was met with severe backlash from many Jewish and pro-Israel groups. JE — Compiled by Andy Gotlieb Exclusive Women’s Apparel Boutique Made in USA Mother of the Bride/Groom, Bar-Mitzvah and all of your special occasions needs. Plus and Petite Sizes Custom Fit Couture Fashion Collection 61 Buck Road Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 elanacollection.com/shop (215)953-8820 By Appointment Only Monday-Friday 10am-3pm FREE ESTIMATES PERSONALIZED SERVICE SENIOR DOWNSIZING DECLUTTER / HOARDING CLEAN OUTS ALL ITEMS SOLD, DONATED, OR REPURPOSED RESPECTFUL OF HOMES WITH ACCUMULATIONS OF 30+ YEARS JOLIE OMINSKY OWNER SERVING PA, DE, NJ JOCSERNICA@YAHOO.COM 610-551-3105 JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 11 editorials Engage With Israel’s New Government n Dec. 21, shortly before the expiration of Court, when the court rules that a Knesset the midnight deadline to do so, Benjamin law is unconstitutional. Netanyahu informed Israeli President Isaac Each of these concerns is legitimate. We Herzog that he had the support of 64 of share them. And we encourage forceful the Knesset’s 120 members to form a new engagement with Netanyahu and govern- government. ment leadership to explain the depth of Expected to be the most right-wing gov- concern in the Diaspora on each of the ernment in Israel’s 75-year history, the issues. Israeli leaders need to understand incoming coalition has generated apprehen- the importance of avoiding a serious rupture sion, consternation and opposition among a in the relationship between the government signifi cant sector of Diaspora Jewry. Very of Israel and its Jewish brothers and sisters little of that concern relates to historical around the world. two-state solution or regional peace issues. We believe in dialogue. We believe in the Israeli President Isaac Herzog (right) assigned the task of forming Instead, the focus has been on possible new thoughtful exchange of ideas. We believe in a new government to Likud party head Benjamin Netanyahu on policies of the government, many of which the value of working through diff erences. And Nov. 13, 2022. could have signifi cant impact on Diaspora just as we oppose Israel’s adoption of policies Jewry. that will negatively impact our community, Half of the new coalition members (32) come the clause that extends the right to make aliyah we cannot support a unilateral severance of dia- from Netanyahu’s Likud party. Eighteen come to any person with at least one Jewish grandpar- logue with Israeli government offi cials by our com- from the haredi Orthodox Shas and United Torah ent. Second, the haredi eff ort to impose more munity just because we disagree with their public Judaism parties. The remaining 14 coalition seats restrictive policies on religious life in Israel, positions. We support comprehensive, bilateral are held by three far-right factions that joined including more limiting standards for conversion engagement. together for the November election and have now and prohibiting pluralistic prayer at the Kotel, It is for that reason that we question the wisdom separated to their original party status. They are along with new rules barring public transporta- of the reported declaration of hundreds of American Religious Zionism, led by Bezalel Smotrich; Otzma tion on Shabbat and the imposition of restrictive rabbis who last week promised to block Israeli govern- Yehudit, led by Itamar Ben-Gvir; and Noam, led by kashrut certifi cation standards. Third, the devel- ment offi cials with whom they disagree from speak- Avi Maoz. As news emerged that the three leaders opment of policies that will negatively impact the ing in their communities. Our tradition embraces had negotiated signifi cant ministerial positions in LGBTQ community, infringe on women’s rights the concept of comprehensive debate even in the the new government, concern within Israel and in and further hamper Palestinian residents in the face of deep disagreement. Our tradition embraces the Diaspora has intensifi ed. West Bank. And fourth, a change to Israel’s judi- engagement, forceful argument and persuasion. Concern has focused on four areas: First, threat- cial system to allow a majority of the Knesset We encourage the threatening rabbis to reconsider ened change to the Law of Return — to remove to override a decision by the Israel Supreme their approach. JE George Santos Should Resign B efore and during his recent campaign for offi ce, incoming Republican Rep. George Santos of Long Island, N.Y., claimed to be “half-Jewish.” He also claimed to be a “Latino Jew.” He said that his maternal grandfather was originally from Ukraine and fl ed to Brazil to escape the Nazis. He also said that his grandparents converted to Catholicism during the rise of Nazism in Belgium after fl eeing Joseph Stalin and the Soviet Union. “It’s a story of survival, of tenacity, of grit, as we like to call it,” he said, and he told prospective voters how proud he was of it. On Monday, as Santos backtracked on numerous other claims he has made regarding his educational background, employment history and involvement in charitable work, he clarifi ed his connection to Judaism: He now says that he is Jew-ish. And he says,“ I never claimed to be Jewish. I am Catholic.” But since he believed that his maternal family had some kind of a Jewish connection, he felt that he was entitled to say he is ”Jew-ish.” And he can’t understand 12 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM why anyone would think such a claim is worthy of criticism. Monday’s concessions by Santos were prompted by numerous reports — bolstered by detailed analyses from several genealogists and historians — that Santos’ campaign claims of Jewish lineage were not true. They also say he fabricated his family’s history with the Nazis. He now admits that he lied about several aspects of his own history. In Santos’ fabricated resume, he graduated Baruch College in New York City, he was a “sea- soned Wall Street fi nancier and investor” (having worked for Citigroup and Goldman Sachs) and achieved success in his family-owned real estate business and leadership in a successful animal-res- cue charity. None of that was true. And to make matters worse, other records indicate that during the time Santos claimed to have attended Baruch College, he was with his mother in Brazil, where he confessed to involvement in fi nancial fraud and was later charged in a case that prosecutors say is unresolved. Santos is a colorful fi gure. He says of himself: “I’m a free thinker. I’m Latino. I’m gay. I’m Jewish. I do what I want. I don’t fi t in the boxes that they want me to fi t in.” But when voters went to the polls in November to elect a representative in New York’s redrawn 3rd Congressional District, which is home to a sizeable Jewish population, they elected a man who is clearly not the person he repeatedly claimed to be. Santos’ victory helped deliver a narrow Republican majority in the House, and his success was celebrated as “the full embodiment of the American dream.” Santos now admits to being a fraud. His American dream has become an expand- ing nightmare. He will do himself and the voters in New York’s 3rd Congressional District a service by resigning from offi ce. JE wikicommons / Kobi Gideon O opinions & letters ‘Do You Want an Answer, or Do You Want a Hug?’ Rabbi Gershon Schusterman | Special to WJW I was visiting one of my sons, Eliyahu, who was working as a rabbi in Atlanta. We were walking together one evening when he started venting to me about what was happening to his cousin — my nephew, also a rabbi — who had been diagnosed with lung cancer and was losing the battle. My son spoke to me about how good a human being my nephew was, that he had a young and growing family, and how difficult and unfair the situation was for everyone. I listened patiently as he poured his heart out. As he was speaking, I began formulating my rabbinic response; after all, I had done this count- less times before. Then I realized that he is a rabbi, too. He’s been confronted with these very same issues, and has the wisdom of life and the should know, because I had faced my own tragedy in life. One sunny Sunday morning 36 years ago, my wife, Rochel Leah, suddenly passed away. She was at home, taking care of our 11 children, and called me while I was driving back home from work to tell me she wasn’t feeling well. I could tell from the tone of her voice that this was serious. We rushed to the hospital and she was admitted into the ER immediately. Within one hour, the doc- tor came out to tell me the horrible news. “She didn’t make it,” he said. “We tried everything we could.” Suddenly, my world was turned upside down. My wife, whom I loved so much, was gone. She was a wonderful mother, as well as a cherished teacher and mentor in our community. One of the practical fundamental things which helped me get through the hardest time in my life A person in pain is a person who really wants the pain to go away. wisdom of the sages to offer just as I do. What purpose is there in telling him that which he already knows? When I had an opportunity to respond, I looked into his eyes and said: “Eliyahu, do you want an answer, or do you want a hug?” I caught him off- guard, and he took a few moments to respond. His eyes filled with tears, and finally, he said: “I want a hug.” I gave him a long hug. We didn’t need to exchange any words at that moment. I could feel his pain. A person in pain is a person who really wants the pain to go away. Sometimes, a hug serves that need much better than any verbal answer could. Most adults don’t know how to ask for a hug, so they camouflage their needs under the guise of wanting an answer. But there’s a time to philosophize and a time to embrace, and the trick is knowing which one you need at any given time. The wrong response, whether it’s from the head or the heart, can often make things worse. I was the support from my family, my friends, and my community. The meals people brought to me and my children. Those who offered to babysit or run errands for us. There was a woman who I barely knew who came in every morning at 6 a.m. for a few weeks running and took care of my 16-month-old twins. These people gave me a hug literally and figuratively. As a rabbi, my immediate impulse after Rochel Leah’s death was to try to understand on an intellectual level what had happened. And some people around me did too, saying things like “It’s all for the good” or “It’s part of God’s plan.” These statements are true, but they were not what I needed to hear at that point in time. I just needed people to support me. I once received a phone call at 5 a.m. from a rabbi I knew. He was frantic. “Rabbi Schusterman,” he said, breathless, “a man in my community just committed suicide. His wife and children are dev- astated. How do I explain this to them?” I paused for a second and collected my thoughts. “You don’t,” I said. “There is nothing to explain right now. Maybe one day, when they’re ready to hear it, you can tell them Jewish teachings on death. But right now, just be there for them. Be there for them for the next several months. Whatever they need, make sure they have it. Give them support. That’s it.” As human beings, we don’t have all the answers. But what we do have is the ability to empathize, to make a heart-to-heart connection and help one another in the darkest days of our lives. In those moments, a hug is the only answer we need. JE Rabbi Gershon Schusterman is the author of “Why God Why? How to Believe in Heaven When it Hurts Like Hell,” which is out now. For 18 years, he led the Hebrew Academy in Orange County, Calif. letters Dangerous Views on Christian Zionism I was appalled at the naivety and sheer ignorance of Irit Tratt’s contention that Israel should cozy up to and has a greater ally in fundamentalist Christians in the United States than we American Jews (Opinions, “Why Christian Zionism Is More Important Than We Think,” Dec. 22). Does she have any notion as to why such conser- vative Christians back Israel? It certainly is not out of fondness for the Jewish people, as here oblique reference to “some troubling trends among their youth” seemingly acknowledges. Her views are dangerous and encourage a rift between Israeli and Diaspora Jews which in the long run will bear poisonous fruit that both will rue. Israel is not above reproach or questioning, and those who cotton favor from its fanboys with agen- das all their own for its future are very misguided at best. JE Lawrence A. Serlin/Havertown Letters should be related to articles that have run in the print or online editions of the JE, and may be edited for space and clarity prior to publication. Please include your first and last name, as well your town/neighborhood of residence. Send letters to letters@ jewishexponent.com. JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 13 opinion Why Your Synagogue, and Mine, Needs a Pickleball Court Andrew Silow-Carroll | JTA T 14 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Boaz Lazarus-Klein, 12, awaits a return during a pickleball match at Congregation Shir Shalom near Buff alo, New York, where his father, Alexander Lazarus-Klein, is the rabbi. social clubs. Over the years, synagogues have exper- imented with all types of sports activities, including bowling, basketball, and, more recently, Gaga. Why not pickleball as well?” Lazarus-Klein also told me in an interview that his synagogue doesn’t do catering, so the “social hall just sits empty except for High Holidays or bigger events.” “Our buildings were built for just a few times a year. It’s a shame,” he said. “We have tried as a con- gregation to get our building more use. We rent to a preschool, we have canasta groups, we have adult education. But for large swaths [of time], especially the social hall is just completely empty.” Lazarus-Klein wrote that the pickleball sessions have attracted regular synagogue-goers, as well as “many others who had never been to any other syn- agogue event outside of High Holy Days.” The players also cross generations, including the rabbi’s 9- and 12-year- old sons and congregants as old as 70. “With a little ingenuity and a few hundred dollars, our empty social hall is suddenly fi lled sev- eral nights a week.” I off ered the rabbi two other arguments for in-shul pickling. First, hosting pickleball honors the spirit of any synagogue that has “Shalom” in its name: By bringing the court under its roof, the synagogue avoids the turf battles between tennis players and picklers that are playing out, sometimes violently, in places across the country. And I shared with Lazarus-Klein my obsession with the synagogue as a “third place” — sociologist Ray Oldenburg’s idea of public places “that host the regular, voluntary, informal and happily anticipated gatherings of individuals beyond the realms of home and work.” “That’s a great way of thinking of it,” said Lazarus- Klein. “I think our membership does kind of use it that way. It’s another base, not where they’re work- ing and not where their home is, where they can feel at home.” The “shul with a pool” has long been derided by tra- ditionalists who say the extracurriculars detract from the religious function of synagogues. Kaufman quotes Israel Goldstein, the rabbi of B’nai Jeshurun in New York, who in 1928 complained that “whereas the hope of the Synagogue Center was to Synagogize the tone of the secular activities of the family, the eff ect has been the secularization of the place of the Synagogue. ... [I]t has been at the expense of the sacred.” Lazarus-Klein, who was ordained by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, argues that there is sacred in the secular and vice versa. “I think a synagogue is a community,” he told me. “A community is a place that supports each other, and it’s certainly not just about Jewish ritual, right? It’s about being together in all diff erent ways. And the pickleball just really expands what we’re able to off er and who we’re able to reach.” Kaplan, I think, deserves the last word: The syn- agogue, he wrote in 1915, “should become a social centre where the Jews of the neighborhood may fi nd every possible opportunity to give expression to their social and play instincts. It must become the Jew’s second home. It must become [their] club, [their] theatre and [their] forum.” It must become, I know he would agree, a place for pickleball. JE Andrew Silow-Carroll is editor in chief of the New York Jewish Week and senior editor of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. Courtesy Alexander Lazarus-Klein he weekday minyan at my synagogue has been moved from the sanctuary to its airy social hall. And whenever I attend I have the same lofty thought: This would make a great pickleball court. Pickleball, the subject of countless breathless arti- cles calling it the fastest-growing sport in America, is essentially tennis for people with terrible knees. Players use hard paddles to knock a wiffl e ball across a net, on a court about a third as big as a tennis court. It’s weirdly addictive, and because the usual game is doubles and the court is so small, it’s pleasantly social. I play on a local court (I won’t say where, because it’s hard enough to get playing time), where a nice little society has formed among the regulars. “A nice little society among the regulars” is also how I might describe a synagogue. Or at least that’s the argument I fantasize making before my syna- gogue board, in a “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”- style speech that will convince them to let me set up a net in the social hall so I can play in the dead of winter. I dream of doing for synagogues and pick- leball what Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, the founder of Reconstructionist Judaism, did for shuls and pools: He popularized the notion of “synagogue-centers” that would include prayer services as well as adult ed, Hebrew schools, theater, athletics and, yes, swimming pools. I might even quote David Kaufman, who wrote a history of the synagogue-center movement called “Shul With a Pool”: “Kaplan was the fi rst to insist that the synagogue remain the hub from which other communal functions derive. Only then might the synagogue fulfi ll its true purpose: the fostering of Jewish community.” Alas, the title “Mordecai Kaplan of Pickleball” may have to go to Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein of Congregation Shir Shalom, a combined Reform and Reconstructionist synagogue near Buff alo, N.Y., which knows from winter. Last week, he sent me a charming essay saying that his synagogue has begun twice-weekly pickleball nights in its social hall. About 40 members showed up on its fi rst night in November, and it’s been steady ever since. “When my synagogue president presented the idea during High Holy Day services, many of our members rolled their eyes,” wrote the 49-year-old. But the rabbi countered by citing Kaplan and paraphrasing one of his forebears, Rabbi Henry Berkowitz, a 19th-century Reform rabbi who encour- aged synagogues in the 1880s “to create program- ming related to physical training, education, culture, and entertainment to help better compete with opinion Israel Is Becoming the Ultimate Study-Abroad Destination Shlomo Anapolle | JNS iStock Editorial / Getty Images Plus / peterspiro W ith low costs, immersion in the Start-Up Nation and antisemitism spiking, it’s no wonder that students are choosing the Jewish state. There are many reasons why students choose to pack their bags and study in Israel. After all, there aren’t many destinations where you can get a world-class education in one of the most inno- vative countries in the world, while surrounded by history and basking in sunshine for (most of) the year. This is why, according to the Israeli Council for Higher Education, approximately 12,000 foreign students each year choose to make Israel their home away from home. What’s more, in contrast to declining international student enrollment in other countries, the COVID-19 pandemic actually amplifi ed interest in Israel as a study-abroad des- tination. American institutions of higher education are still reeling from the pandemic, during which most students were forced to study remotely, depriving them of the benefi ts of the in-person college experience like networking opportunities and a thriving social life. International student enrollment rates around the world are refl ecting this shift. According to Boundless, U.S. colleges have experienced an 18% decrease from pre-pandemic numbers of active M-1 and F-1 students. In Australia, the number of international student visa holders plummeted 54% from October 2019 to October 2021. In Japan, international enrollment dropped 13.3% during the same two years. In Germany, the enrollment of occasional students — those who possess an undergraduate degree but take additional courses or conduct research for non-degree purposes in a specifi c country — decreased 26% from the winter semester of 2019-20 to the winter semester of 2021-22. Yet Israel is seeing the opposite trend. For 20 years before the pandemic, only 5% of students coming to Israel for their gap year chose to stay in the country for further study. That number has increased to 20%. Why is Israel defying the global enrollment trend? First, more and more students and parents are realizing that it doesn’t make sense to pay for an expensive degree when all one gets out of the experience is a piece of paper. Instead, by coming to Israel, international students can broaden their The sprawling campus of Tel Aviv University in Israel on January 11, 2017. horizons and venture outside their comfort zones, while obtaining an education at a fraction of the cost. College tuition in the United States can run up to $75,000 a year, but a degree in Israel typi- cally costs under $5,000 annually. The socioeconomic face of Israel has also changed dramatically. We’re no longer a Socialist country defi ned by the kibbutz; we’re the Start-Up Nation, characterized by homegrown high-tech businesses that make a global impact. In fact, the tech market is insatiable. Yes, there are layoff s in the tech industry at the moment, but work is still easily found if you have the proper skill set. A cursory search on LinkedIn, FreshBoards and Indeed shows that companies are still hiring, but they’re looking for something specifi c. And despite the layoff s, an OurCrowd report states that high- tech companies are looking for “R&D/software hires, and have diffi culty fi nding them, creating a strong job-seeker’s market.” At the same time, a degree in computer science isn’t a necessity for fi nding success in the tech world. Last year, Israel saw 30,000 job openings in high-tech and business — a 200% increase from 2020. Meanwhile, 12,000 of those jobs were in non-high-tech roles. Lastly, although it may be uncomfortable to acknowledge as a motivation behind temporarily or permanently moving to Israel, antisemitism is surging worldwide, especially on American col- lege campuses. According to the StopAntisemitism watchdog group; 55% of U.S. students report being a victim of campus antisemitism; 72% say university administrations fail to take antisem- itism and personal safety seriously; 55% report needing to hide their support for Israel; and 73% hide their Jewish identity on campus. Higher education is so much more than what you’ll fi nd in textbooks. It’s an experience. In Israel, between exhilarating trips where one can see the results of more than 2,000 years of history, to learn- ing the latest in cutting-edge technology in one of the most innovative countries in the world, to being in the only country made by Jews and for Jews, it’s no surprise that studying there has become a popular choice. JE Shlomo Anapolle is the director of the International Program in English at the Jerusalem College of Technology. JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 15 opinion How Fostering Jewish Life Would Safeguard Malmö’s Jews Daniel Radomski | JNS B 16 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM The Stortorget, a large plaza in the center of Malmö. Current Malmö Mayor Katrin Stjernfeldt Jammeh has worked closely with the local Jewish commu- nity to combat antisemitism, including appointing a special coordinator. She also has entered into an agreement with the Jewish community to jointly strengthen public knowledge about Jewish life and history, as a manner of countering antisemitism and reducing the community’s vulnerability. She embodies the need for government and Jewish communal offi cials to collaborate, and I hope to see these initiatives fl ourish under her leadership. Also under Stjernfeldt Jammeh’s stewardship, the city’s coordinator against antisemitism, Mirjam Katzin, last month published a second report about the Malmö Jewish community and its perception of local challenges. While the qualitative report con- cluded that Jewish residents of Malmö face hatred against Jews, particularly in times of growing tensions in the Middle East, several Jewish Malmö residents also shared that they had an “optimistic view of the situation.” In other words, the Jewish community wants to counter antisemitism, but does not view it as the defi ning factor of Jewish life and identity in the city of Malmö. Positively featuring Jewish life and culture in the public square would strengthen the connection between the city and its Jewish citizens, accord- ing to the respondents. Just as essential, it would help to educate the community at large about the need for Jews to enjoy a proud and public Jewish identity, critical in curtailing growth of the world’s oldest hatred. In other words, the Jewish community of Malmö is sophisticated in its interests and nuanced in its complexity and needs to work alongside the Malmö government in jointly developing a deep- ened and accessible sense of Jewish pride. Already, the city has partnered with the Jewish community to open a Jewish Knowledge Center in the city’s synagogue, to improve awareness of the Jewish national minority in schools, and to develop mean- ingful interfaith eff orts, among other outcomes. At the same time, Swedish leaders must be clear and consistent in their immediate and forceful con- demnation of threats against their Jewish citizens, whatever the source or motivation. Finally, Jewish life anywhere, especially in a city as rich in Jewish history as Malmö, must not be reduced to a chronicle of persecution, as in the case of my own family’s experiences before their arrival in Sweden. Instead, coordi- nated actions against antisemitism, combined with eff orts to strengthen Jewish identity and the com- munity’s understanding of the Jewish people, will serve as a model for other locales and safeguard Jews not only in Malmö, but elsewhere around the globe. JE Daniel Radomski is the head of strategy and programs for the World Jewish Congress and executive director of its Jewish Diplomatic Corps. He grew up in Malmö, Sweden. Christian Beiwinkel via Wikimedia Commons igotry anywhere is a grave injustice, yet it becomes all the more real to me when I hear about antisemitism in Sweden. This nation, which was a respite for thousands of Jewish refugees shortly after World War II, eventually became a symbol of humanism and hospitality. Among those saved were my paternal grandparents, who arrived in Malmö aided by Count Folke Bernadotte, the Swedish diplomat who co-chaired the Red Cross. As was often the case with Holocaust survivors, my grandparents soon began to rebuild their shattered lives after their arrival, and in 1946, they welcomed Chaim, my father, into the world. In 1969, Sweden was again a safe haven for my family. My mother, Dora, a 19-year-old Polish student of chemistry at the University of Wrocław, immigrated to escape a further wave of antisemitism. And today, my extended family still lives in Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city, and sees it as their home. While I now reside in the United States, I will always feel indebted to Sweden. However, I fi nd myself heartbroken because Malmö, whose Jewish community dates back to the 17th century, has become associated not with tolerance, but with antisemitism, specifi cally motivated by hatred toward Israel. Unfortunately, numerous physical and verbal attacks against Jews have occurred, in addition to several pro-Palestinian demonstrations that have featured overt antisemitism. In December 2017, for example, several hundred people marched through Malmö shouting, “We have announced the intifada from Malmö. We want our freedom back, and we will shoot the Jews.” Ilmar Reepalu, who served as the city’s mayor from 1994 to 2013, essentially accused the Jewish community of generating hatred, arguing that it did not distance itself clearly enough from Israel. Can you imagine a politician blaming any other group for the hatred they experience? I, for one, cannot. Fortunately, Malmö’s current leadership strikes a diff erent tone. In 2021, the city hosted the Malmö Forum on Holocaust Remembrance and Combating Antisemitism, which I proudly attended in my pro- fessional role for the World Jewish Congress. At that time, the international community made spe- cifi c commitments to counter Holocaust distortion and denial and fi ght antisemitism. feature Wild pitch How an Israeli kibbutznik became a coach for the Cincinnati Reds Elli Wohlgelernter | JTA Alon Leichman, hired as a pitching coach for the Cincinnati Reds, plays for Team Israel during the eighth inning of the Tokyo Olympic Games baseball opening round against the United States in Yokohama, Japan, on July 30, 2021. archaeological site that gives Gezer its name. And that’s where Leichman grew up, fi rst brought to the fi eld by his father for the 1989 Maccabiah Games, fi ve weeks after Alon was born on May 29. “I never related to that fi eld as the place my dad built,” said Leichman. “It was a fi eld that was on the kibbutz. Growing up, everyone around me played — my older brother played, and all my friends, a little older than me, played. “I remember — I was 4, in gan [pre-kindergarten], and I would walk to the baseball fi eld and practice. I vividly remember being in the gan and going to practice. But baseball on the kibbutz is just some- thing that I grew into. Everyone did it; I was not special, just another kid who played. I happened to love it a lot.” ‘We’re good people’ So he played and played and got better and better. By age 10, he was on the team representing Israel at a tournament in the Netherlands. But baseball in Israel back then was in its infancy, and there was not enough money to pay for the team to travel. So Leichman had to work extra hours to get the JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 17 P Kazuhiro Fujihara/AFP via Getty Images KIBBUTZ GEZER, Israel — Bill James, the infl uen- tial baseball writer, historian and statistician, once described the great Yankees fi rst baseman Don Mattingly in only four words: “100% ballplayer, 0% bulls***.” The same can be said of Alon Leichman, the fi rst athlete born in Israel to make it to the major leagues, having just been named assistant pitching coach of the Cincinnati Reds. Under manager David Bell, Leichman will help instruct the team’s pitchers, including Chase Anderson, Luis Cessa, Fernando Cruz, Alexis Díaz and Hunter Greene, on mechanics, pitch selection, preparation, concentration and execution. His journey has been unlikely, verging on prepos- terous: How could someone from Israel, where baseball is barely an afterthought, step out of the wheat fi elds of a kibbutz to the highest level of baseball in the world? The 33-year-old is the product of Kibbutz Gezer (the “Carrot Kibbutz”), the youngest child born to two idealists who grew up in Zionist youth groups and helped found this kibbutz in central Israel in the 1970s together with other Anglo — that is, English-speaking — Zionists. But David, Leichman’s father, couldn’t leave it all behind in Queens, N.Y. He was a baseball fan, a big baseball fan — “I always knew that if, God forbid, there’s a fi re in my house, I know where my base- ball glove is.” One day, he and his fellow kibbutz residents had an idea: Why don’t we cut off a slice of the wheat crop and construct a regulation-sized fi eld in the southwest corner of the kibbutz, where we can all go play when we get off work? That was 1983, and there wasn’t a single base- ball or softball fi eld in all of Israel. So David, who was in charge of construction on the kibbutz (Leichman’s mother, Miri, is the kibbutz rabbi), built his fi eld of dreams, just 450 yards from his front door and in the shadow of the 4,000-year-old feature Photo by Elli Wohlgelernter Various jerseys from Alon Leichman’s baseball career on display at his family’s home on Kibbutz Gezer in Israel. kibbutz to fl y him over. Not that he wasn’t used to working; like all kibbutz members, he was already contributing by third grade. But now he had to put in extra hours, picking olives or milking cows, to make the extra money. “I liked milking cows,” he recalled. “Sometimes, it’s hard work, but I got more of a kick out of it than hitting an olive tree” to shake loose the olives. Leichman remembers well that tournament in Holland, the fi rst time he wore the Israeli uniform representing his country abroad. “It was really cool,” he recalled. “A sense of pride. That’s the fi rst time I think I felt like: ‘You’re not just Alon, you’re not just representing the kibbutz anymore; you’re representing a whole country.’ “I knew back then that Israel was not on the best terms with the world. So it was something that I was aware of: that part of our job of playing baseball is also making sure that these guys get to know Israelis other than what they hear on the news and show them that, you know, we’re good people.” The 5’-8” right-hander kept playing, kept improv- ing and kept representing Israel at tournaments. He played in the one-season Israel Baseball League in 2007 as the second-youngest player, served in the Israeli army from 2007 to 2010, and then headed to the states to play college ball at two schools, Cypress College and the University of California, San Diego. In his fi rst appearance at Cypress, his elbow blew out, and he needed what’s known as “Tommy John surgery” to repair a torn ulnar ligament inside the elbow. Then he got hurt again and had a second Tommy John surgery. But when he got hurt a third time, and the doctor said he needed to go under the knife yet again, Leichman knew that his hopes for a professional playing career were over. But not before proving to himself that he had what it takes. “I know I was good in Israel. I knew that. But I had no idea how I would fare coming to the States. I thought I could fare [well] there, but I really never knew because I had never faced those types of 18 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM hitters. And then, in my fi rst game, I did really well for two and a third innings, four strikeouts. No one got on. It was 1-2-3, 1-2-3, and then I got the fi rst guy out in the ninth. And on a one-two fastball, my elbow popped. So it was like, ‘OK, I can do this here.’” ‘Throw more strikes’ His love for the game never left him, and Leichman grew into an insightful and intuitive coach. His expertise and aptitude were self-evident. “Alon will be a big-league coach one day,” said pitcher and teammate Alex Katz three years ago. “It’s hard to get a coaching job in affi liate ball with- out professional experience, let alone non-affi liated experience. But he’s just one of the most intelligent baseball minds I’ve been around. And he’s young.” Leichman said his strength is “helping guys get better. Communicating with them. Being able to relate to them. Getting on their level. Simplifying it for them. And being creative and fi nding ways to throw more strikes.” Despite the surgeries, Leichman could still pitch, if he did it sparingly. He joined Israel’s World Baseball Classic teams of 2012, 2016 and 2017 as a player or coach; pitched for the European Baseball Championship team in 2019; threw in the Olympic qualifying tournaments in 2019; and hurled one perfect inning against Team USA at the Olympics in 2021 in Tokyo. Along the way, he also earned a black belt in jujitsu. But coaching was his future, and after being given a chance in 2017 to instruct in the Seattle Mariners farm system, Leichman kept moving up, from Single A to Double AA to Triple AAA, before being grabbed by the Reds to join their major league staff this season. His father is overwhelmed. “It’s unbelievable,” said David Leichman. “I’m still shaking and crying to myself about how wonderful this has been.” Alon is no less shell-shocked, having agreed to sign a contract with the Reds on the same day that the New York Mets asked to interview him about a potential job. “It’s not really sinking in yet, to be honest,” he said while in Israel recently to visit his family on Gezer. “But it’s defi nitely a dream come true, some- thing I’ve been dreaming about since I’m a little kid. Obviously, I wanted to be there as a player, but once I got hurt and realized that playing was not an option anymore, I started pursuing coaching. I wanted to do it at the highest level. The dream remained; it just took a diff erent route. But it’s still as exciting.” Leichman is still undecided on whether to join Team Israel’s coaching staff in Florida for the WBC in March before heading back to Arizona to rejoin the Reds for spring training. But this product of the wheat fi elds of Gezer won’t ever forget where he’s from: His uniform numeral, 29, is a con- stant reminder. It’s his laundry-tag number at the kibbutz. JE David Leichman, left, stands behind the backstop at the baseball fi eld he helped build at Kibbutz Gezer in Israel, where his son Alon, right, learned the game that has brought him to the major leagues. arts & culture 2022 was a big year for Jews in the arts Andrew Lapin | JTA O nce more for the record, Dave Chappelle: Jews don’t really run Hollywood. But anyone paying attention in 2022 saw a great deal of Jewish creativity this year; in fact, it was notable just how many of the biggest pop-culture events fer- vently embraced Jewish identity. Growing up Jewish in movies Two of the year’s big arthouse film releases were autobiographical portray- als of their directors’ Jewish upbring- ings. In “The Fabelmans,” Steven Spielberg’s account of how he became a filmmaker, a teenager in 1950s America navigates a fracturing Jewish family and antisemitism at school. And in “Armageddon Time,” James Gray’s retelling of his Reagan-era childhood (with appearances from the Trumps), a Jewish family in Queens, N.Y., tries to assimilate into the WASPy upper class while their young son brushes aside the needs of his Black friend. ‘Tár’ and ‘teshuvah’ While the families in “The Fabelmans” and “Armageddon Time” were obvi- ously Jewish, Cate Blanchett’s mon- strous fictional conductor in “Tár” was not, which made it all the more sur- prising when the film not-so-subtly incorporated Jewish themes into its story of artistic success and karmic ret- ribution. The acclaimed drama looks to make big inroads this awards season as it gives audiences a de facto Hebrew lesson. Photo illustration: Mollie Suss/70 Faces Media ‘Rehearsal’ for living Jewishly Gonzo comedian Nathan Fielder staged some elaborate simulations of everyday life in “The Rehearsal,” a new HBO series that proved to be among the buzziest TV shows of the year — and whose late-season pivot to discussions of Jewish parenting caught just about everyone by surprise. As the Internet lit up with conversations about Miriam Eskenasy, the Hebrew tutor Fielder hired for his fake Jewish son, JTA spoke to Miriam herself about the various “Armageddon Time,” “Russian Doll,” “The Rehearsal” and “Tár” were some of the cultural works that dealt with Jewish themes. questions of Jewish identity explored by the show. ‘The U.S. and the Holocaust’ Ken Burns’ PBS documentary relay- ing how the United States responded to the Holocaust on the homefront and during wartime ignited a fierce national reckoning over the historic treatment of Jews and outsiders. Burns and his Jewish co-directors said they hoped to commu- nicate an important lesson to the coun- try about antisemitism and xenophobia that could challenge America’s founding myths. TV had Jewish conflicts FX/Hulu’s thriller “The Patient” dug into an inter-family divide between Reform parents and Orthodox children, even as the show weathered criticism for its cast- ing of non-Jew Steve Carell as a Jewish therapist. Another Hulu show, Ramy Youssef’s “Ramy,” entered its third sea- son with a storyline set in Israel and an Orthodox Jewish supporting character, notable for a series that focuses on a Muslim American protagonist. ‘Russian Doll’ Nazi gold train Natasha Lyonne’s time-hopping Netflix series returned for a second season, reaching deep into the past to find Lyonne’s protagonist Nadia unearth- ing generations of Jewish trauma in her family. It all culminated with her exploration of a Hungarian “gold train” filled with treasures that the Nazis sup- posedly looted from the country’s Jews during wartime. Lyonne was drawing on real-life Holocaust history for the plot. Some uncomfy Jewish jokes The “Sex and the City” follow-up on HBO was largely viewed by fans of the original as a trainwreck. Jewish view- ers saw something else: bizarre Jewish jokes, from a midseason flirtation with a Holocaust-denier to a season-finale, “They Mitzvah,” that ultimately didn’t happen. ‘Funny Girl’ cast conflicts The hotly anticipated revival of the biographical musical about Jewish comedian Fanny Brice that ini- tially launched the career of Barbra Streisand, debuted in spring to sky- high expectations. Lead Beanie Feldstein said that taking on the role of Brice was “incredibly meaningful for me as a Jewish woman.” But following poor reviews and ticket sales, Feldstein exited with gusto — and was replaced by Lea Michele, the “Glee” star with Jewish ancestry who’d spent much of her career openly pining for the role of Fanny. Other Jewish stories from 2022 available to stream: 13: The Musical (Netflix); Ahed’s Knee (VOD rental); American Masters: The Adventures of Saul Bellow (PBS); The Calling (Peacock); Cha Cha Real Smooth (Apple TV+); Heirs to the Land (Netflix); Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song (VOD rental); Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage (Disney+); Image of Victory (Netflix); Jackass Forever (Paramount+); Last Flight Home (Paramount+); Ridley Road (PBS); Shababnikim (Chaiflicks); Yosi, the Regretful Spy (Amazon Prime). JE JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 19 food & dining The Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich. Period. KERI WHITE | SPECIAL TO THE JE T he grilled cheese sandwich is an undisputed classic. Melted cheese on buttery toasted bread really can’t miss. Whether it is offered as an old-school white bread with American cheese version or a fancy combo of imported cheese, artisanal bread, and specialty condiments, this sandwich is pretty wonderful. OK, OK, it’s not exactly health food, but sometimes a splurge is warranted and, as far as indulgences go, this one is quite delicious. When it is paired with a simple salad like the one below and chased with a dessert of fresh fruit, sorbet or mint tea, the richness of the grilled cheese sandwich balances out. Over the last month, we ate a lot of dinners in front of the television supporting our beloved Philadelphia teams, and sandwiches lend themselves well to this type of eating. This particular version took advantage of the last of the late-season tomatoes and also incorporated a dash of spice. Coating the outside of the bread with mayonnaise is an unorthodox approach, but trust me, it enhances the crispiness of the bread, adds a subtle tang of flavor and, although this is not much of a consideration under the circumstances, slightly reduces the fat content in the sandwich by using a bit less butter. As for the bread, I opted for a hearty whole-grain loaf, but any good-quality sturdy bread works — try a plowman’s loaf, table bread, boule, sourdough, etc. — different bakers have different names but you are look- ing for something firm and kind of chewy, not anything delicate or flimsy. Using grated cheese ensures even melting and a transcendent texture. The amounts below are estimates; depending on the size of the bread, more or less of each ingredient may be needed. Makes 1 sandwich Lightly coat one side of each bread slice with may- onnaise. Melt half of the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. While the butter melts, assemble the sandwich. Place half of the cheese on the non-mayonnaise side of the bread. Place the tomatoes on the cheese, then add the hot sauce, if using, and top 20 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Photos by Keri White 2 slices best quality, sturdy bread 4 thin slices of tomato, cut to fit the bread ½ cup grated cheddar cheese 1 teaspoon mayonnaise (enough to barely coat the outside of the bread) ¼-½ teaspoon your favorite bottled hot sauce or very finely chopped chili peppers (optional) 1 tablespoon butter it with the remaining cheese. Cover it with the remaining slice of bread, and place it in the skillet. Slowly cook the sandwich to a golden brown on the bottom, carefully fl ip and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Lift the sandwich and tilt the pan to allow the butter underneath. Cook the other side of the sandwich to a golden brown, remove it from the pan, and prepare for raptures. If this fl avor profi le does not tickle your fancy, consider the following grilled cheese variations: • Rye bread, Swiss cheese, caramelized onion, grainy mustard • Italian bread, mozzarella cheese, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes • Italian bread, provolone cheese, roasted peppers • Pumpernickel bread, Muenster cheese, thinly sliced dill pickles, mustard • Sourdough bread, feta cheese, olive tapenade • Challah, goat cheese, apples, honey • Rye bread, smoked Gouda, Russian dressing, sauerkraut • Boule, Monterey jack, salsa • Baguette sliced on the diagonal, brie, walnuts, fi g jam Autumnal Salad Serves 2 This simple salad off ers a light coun- terpoint to the richness of the grilled cheese and nicely showcases sea- sonal produce. For the salad: 1 small head lettuce, bibb, red leaf, romaine, et cetera, torn 1 beet, peeled and sliced with a vegetable peeler 1 Granny Smith apple, chopped For the dressing: 1 pinch salt 1 generous sprinkle of black pepper 1 scant sprinkle garlic powder 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Print | Digital | Reach an affluent audience of 50,000 engaged readers with our print & digital magazine. Upcoming Special Sections Dining & Food January 13 Help readers find the most flavorful deals in the area for fine dining, casual cuisine, carryout, groceries and spirits. Toss the salad ingredients in a medi- um-sized bowl. Sprinkle the dressing ingredients over the salad, and toss well. Serve immediately. JE social announcements BIRTH D Jewish Exponent PHILADELPHIA BENJAMIN LESLIE SLAVIT ebbie and Edward Hoff man of Holland and Sandy and Howard Slavit of Palm Beach, Florida, announce the birth of their grandson, Benjamin Leslie Slavit. Ben is the son of Kate (née Hoff man) and David Slavit and brother of Ruthie Faye of Potomac, Maryland. Benjamin Leslie is named in loving memory of his maternal great- uncle Bruce Hoff man, maternal great-grandfather Burton Hoff man and paternal great-grandfather Leslie Pensler. Also celebrating his arrival are aunt Jeramy Zimmerman and uncle Josh Hoff man, cousin Sidney Hoff man and aunt Wendy Slavit. JE Camps January 19 Parents are making decisions for summer 2023! Advertise in the go-to resource for Jewish families with camp age children. Home Services Photo by Emily White, What Em Sees January 19 Help readers find the best deals on indoor and outdoor home improvement projects. Windows, doors, gutters, painting, roofs, general contractors, plumbers, electricians and more! JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Contact your sales consultant to schedule your advertising at 215-832-0700 ext. 2, advertising@jewishexponent.com JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 21 obituaries LASTICK ABRAMSON GLORIA nee Sitnick) passed peacefully on December 15, 2022, surrounded by the love of family at the age of 91. Beloved wife of the late Louis Abramson. Daughter of the late Abraham and Celia Sitnick. Loving mother of Debbie Ryan Ken Scott) , Sandi Foster Joe) , and the late Brenda Fineberg Louis) . Adoring grandmother of Carly Ray) , Alisa Chris) , Paul Giannis) David, Faith Adam) Eric, Rachael, Matt, Brooke Tim) , and ten great-grandchildren. Dear sister of the late Roz Blumberg Sam) and Ethel Kaminsky Morris) . Also survived by her brother-in-law Allan Abramson Sheila) and her many niec- es and nephews whom she loved with all her heart. Contributions in her memory may be made to The National Museum of American Jewish Military History www.nmaj mh.org GOLDSTEINS’ ROSENBERG’S RAPHAEL-SACKS www.goldsteinsfuneral.com ELI R. - December 17, 2022. Age 99 years old of Lafayette Hill, PA. A proud World War II Veteran. Devoted husband of the late Sonia Lastick. Loving father of Adrian Seltzer Steven) , Sheryl D’Amore David) , Jerry Lastick Cheryl) , Marsha Petnick Martin) , and the late Geoffrey Lastick. Dear brother of the late Stanley Lastick. Beloved grandfather of Marc Seltzer, Samantha Seltzer, Lauren D’Amore, Matthew D’Amore, Jaimie Lastick, and David Petnick. Contributions in his mem- ory may be made to Coatesville VA Medical Center, http://bit.ly/EliLastick. GOLDSTEINS’ ROSENBERG’S RAPHAEL-SACKS www.goldsteinsfuneral.com LEIBOWITZ ARNOLD - December 17, 2022. Husband of the late Marcy. Father of Beth Kevin) Kellenberger and the late Gregg late Marilyn) Leibowitz. Dear companion to Susan Steinberg. Step-father of S. Matthew Rachel) Steinberg and Scott Amy) Steinberg. Grandfather of Madison Kreber Cory DiBacco) , Ryan Kreber, Sarah Steinberg, Jacob Steinberg, Harrison Steinberg and Liv Steinberg. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Downtown Miami, FL 33131 or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 555 Croton Road, Suite 111, King of Prussia, PA 19406, ww.j drf.org. GOLDSTEINS’ ROSENBERG’S RAPHAEL-SACKS www.goldsteinsfuneral.com MENDELSOHN BERNICE nee Chasin) passed away peace- fully on December 19, 2022, at the age of 88. Bernice was married to her beloved husband Jack for 67 years. They enj oyed traveling and went on many wonderful vacations together. She had two children, her son Gary Stefani) and her daughter Debby Rich) . Bernice grew up in Kingston Pa. and attended Drexel University where she met her husband, Jack. She graduated from Drexel in 1954 and con- tin ed her ed cation later in life in the field of nutrition. Bernice was a devoted homemak- er. She enj oyed playing duplicate Bridge and assisting her husband’s career in insurance sales. Bernice also enj oyed her time as a student of the Barnes Foundation, but al- ways found the time for her secret pleasures of watching General Hospital, going shop- ping with her daughter, and taking care of her grand puppies. She always put her family above everything else and was always avail- able for them in whatever they needed. She excelled as a wife and mother and her good advice was second to none. GOLDSTEINS’ ROSENBERG’S RAPHAEL-SACKS www.goldsteinsfuneral.com SLOANE SHARON - December 16, 2022 of Penn Valley, PA. Loving mother of Matthew Sloane Amanda) , Jordan Sloane Bethany) , and Dr. Justin Sloane Shelby) adoring grandmother of Brendan, Emerie, Benj amin, the late Zachary, and two more on the way; beloved sister of Dr. Howard Melnick Jackie) and Dr. Pa l Melnick aren . In lie of owers, contributions in her memory may be made to Main Line Reform Temple mlrt.org/contrib- ute) . JOSEPH LEVINE & SONS www.levinefuneral.com STEINBERG S. TY - Age 94, of Elkins Park, son of Gimbel and Gertrude Steinberg, and brother of Lenore Alfred) Bernstein who both prede- ceased him. Survived by his adored wife of 69 years, Marj orie, sons Michael Tammy) and Gary Amy) . Also survived by grandchil- dren, Jason, Aaron, Jacob, Laura, Dylan, and Ethan as well as great-grandchildren Brody, Charlotte, Caleb, Maya, and Jordana. Raised in Oak Lane, graduating from Central, Class 185 and proudly served in the Navy as a Pharmacist Mate. Graduated from Temple University and after obs with Food Fair, his own appliance sales company, and National Cash Register and at the urging of his father- in-law Mottie, oined Buten Paints, heading sales and later becoming President of the 30-store chain operation. Besides his devoted family life, the most im- portant part of his life was his philanthropic involvement. First, co-founding the B’nai Brith Adelphi Lodge, and from there be- came involved in The Federation of Jewish Agencies, Israel Bonds, United Way, Jewish Community Centers, Congregation Adath Jeshurun, Golden Slipper Club & Camp Charities, Philadelphia Geriatric Center Abramson Senior Care) , and Moss Rehab. He served each of these organizations as a Vice President, President, or Chairman re- ceiving so many accolades for his tireless involvement over the years. So many of his deepest friendships had been nurtured through his charitable efforts, but he felt that he received much more than was given in so many ways. Ty led Wednesday morning Minyan services at Adath Jeshurun for 52 years - a record that will unlikely ever be s rpassed. He en oyed fishing on his oat, The Red Snapper, named after Marge. Ty worked out three days a week into his 90’s and could be seen on his bike on the board- walk at the shore every weekend, until a fall the end of 2021, which ultimately led to his passing. He was widely loved and admired by so many long-term friends, neighbors, business associates, those involved with communal activities, and especially by family. Contributions may be made to Congregation Adath Jeshurun’s Minyan Fund” or to that of the donor’s choice. We pray that Ty’s soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life. May his memory inspire blessing after blessing. JOSEPH LEVINE & SONS www.levinefuneral.com www.jewishexponent.com 22 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Navy Analyst, Restaurant Owner Sybil Klein Dies at 86 Sasha Rogelberg | Staff Writer Courtesy of Michael Klein  N avy analyst and restaurant owner Sybil Klein died of respiratory failure at Jefferson Abington Hospital on Dec. 13. She was 86. Klein and husband Robert Klein owned and operated a coffee shop at Presidential City Apartments on City Avenue, where the couple lived shortly after their 1956 marriage, and later, The Pantry near Rittenhouse Square. Though usually the family cook and purveyor of Jewish apple cake, brisket and matzah balls at gather- ings for the holidays, Klein worked in the front of the house at her luncheonettes, warmly greeting customers. After her husband’s death in 1969, Klein became a Navy analyst at what is now the Naval Supply Systems Command, Weapons System Support in Northeast Philadelphia, where she worked until she retired at age 75. She was a volunteer greeter at Jeanes Hospital, now part of Temple University Hospital in Northeast Philadelphia. Despite her occupational pivot, Klein continued her practice of cooking and car- ing for others, becoming the office mother and grandmother at her Navy analyst job. She remembered every co-worker’s birthday and gave them baked goods and would sprinkle Yiddish phrases into her conversations with colleagues, despite being one of the few Jews in the office. She was particularly fond of those born in 1959, the year she became a mother. Upon her retirement, her colleagues gifted her a book of “Sybilisms,” filled with phonetically spelled-out Yiddish words (“kenahora” was a favorite) and phrases she frequently used. “She educated the people in her office as to what a Jewish person is like,” said son Michael Klein. “She was a good soul.” Klein passed down her love of food and hospitality: Michael Klein is a longtime food writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer, and granddaughter Rachel Klein is the chef behind Miss Rachel’s Pantry, a South Philadelphia vegan restaurant named after Klein’s Center City luncheonette. “I learned from her that you can feed people to show them how much you care about them,” Rachel Klein said. Born in the Wynnefield neighbor- hood of West Philadelphia in 1936, Klein was a lifelong Philadelphian. Her father, Solomon Matthews, was a bus driver, and her mother, Florence Matthews, was a homemaker. Though the family wasn’t very religious, they tried to keep kosher and gathered for holiday meals. “Food is a really great common denom- inator.…It’s a magnet; it brought every- body together,” said Michael Klein. Klein graduated Overbrook High School in 1954, where she had met her husband two years prior, both of them in the school’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel.” Klein was fond of her high school years and organized her class’ reunions. She enjoyed the social aspect and close-knit community she kept in her childhood: Klein lived five blocks away from her elementary school, and after meeting her husband, who lived six blocks from her, the couple moved across the street from Klein’s parents and later to a house two blocks away. When Robert Klein died, Klein was 32 years old and raising three children: Michael, Alan and Diana, who died ear- lier. Despite becoming a widow, Klein was an “eternal optimist,” according to Alan Klein. “I went away to college, I thought we were wealthy. She just always figured out a way to hide everything from us, and just put a big smile on her face and make it work,” he said. “I later found out that she didn’t know where our next meal was coming from. But I never knew that. We never went hungry.” After her husband’s death, Klein made a point to speak about Robert Klein to her children, saying, “That was a Robert Klein joke,” after saying something funny, Michael Klein remembered. Klein extended her love to her eight grandchildren. When Rachel Klein went vegetarian and later vegan at a young age, Klein would make a vegetarian version of her usual chicken-based matzah ball soup. “There wasn’t anything for me to eat at her shiva, which was telling of her not being there,” Rachel Klein said. “Because she always wanted to make sure that everyone was accommodated, and that everybody felt welcome.” When the Phillies were playing in the National League Championship Series and World Series, Klein would watch the games to be able to recount them with her grandson, an avid fan. “She did it just to keep up with him,” Michael Klein said. Klein was a fan of Hallmark movies and took Yiddish classes in her 60s at what is now KleinLife. She talked to her children and grandchildren multiple times a week, and made it a point to meet with former coworkers for lunch, even shortly before her death. “She was an open book,” Michael Klein said. “She had no secrets. She had no filter… She could have a conversation with a rock.” Klein is survived by her two sons, eight grandchildren and three great-grand- children. JE srogelberg@midatlanticmedia.com A RESOLUTION OF ABRAMSON SENIOR CARE The Board of Trustees of Abramson Senior Care record with sorrow the passing of their esteemed colleague and friend S. Ty Steinberg z’’l whose commitment to Jewish causes and philanthropy benefited the seniors served by Abramson Senior Care, and who served as an example to the entire community. Ty joined the Board of Trustees of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center (PGC) in 1978 and was a steadfast supporter of Abramson Senior Care’s mission of providing high-quality care to seniors throughout the Philadelphia region. He had a passion for philanthropy, which he shared with his family and his community. Together with his loving wife, Marjorie, Ty gave generously to numerous campaigns, including the Building for Life campaign, the Annual Fund and the Rainbow Ball, as well as being a recipient of the prestigious Family Award at the Rainbow Ball in 2017. In addition to his philanthropy, Ty gave of his time and expertise, serving on various committees and as Chair of the Personnel Committee at PGC. His impact in the community extended beyond Abramson Senior Care, as he held various leadership positions, including at Adath Jeshurun, Moss Rehab, and Golden Slipper Camp/Golden Slipper Clubs and Charities. Abramson Senior Care and our entire Jewish community were truly fortunate to have been the beneficiary of Ty’s leadership and tzedakah, as well as his warmth and charming spirit. To Majorie; sons, Michael (Tammy) and Gary (Amy); his grandchildren, Aaron (Bari), Jason (Erica), Laura, Jacob (Jaqui), Dylan, and Ethan; his great- grandchildren, Brody, Caleb, Charlotte, Maya, and Jordana and all who mourn his passing, the Board of Trustees of Abramson Senior Care offer this expression of profound sympathy. May they find solace in the knowledge that his dedication, generosity and good works will serve as a living tribute to him and will benefit future generations. Lorraine Drobny Board Chair Sean Gregson President and CEO JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 23 synagogue spotlight What’s happening at ... Kol Tzedek Kol Tzedek in West Philadelphia Looking for New Home Jarrad Saff ren | Staff Writer I 24 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Kol Tzedek congregants gather outdoors for prayer. lived in West Philly for a long come back together. time and people from outside “Th e pandemic was so isolat- the city on the Main Line or ing,” he said. in South Jersey. Th ey bring a Starting in January, though, range of incomes to the table Fornari will be isolating him- “from basically impoverished self for six months with a sab- to well-off ,” said Segal. batical. Th e congregation is Congregants in the allowing its 40-year-old rabbi, Reconstructionist community who has worked tirelessly to also do not want to purchase a help grow the congregation for Rabbi Ari Lev Fornari space and wall themselves off the past seven years, his own from the rest of the neighbor- shmita year for release and hood. As Segal explained it, “We want a space we can regeneration. Fornari plans to tend to his body with share with the community.” exercise and yoga and to his mind with four weeks “We’re conscious of our role in gentrifi cation in of silent meditation. He is also going to dive deep West Philly,” she added. “We want to make sure we’re into Maimonides’ medieval text “Mishneh Torah,” not going to do something that will drive them out.” or “Hilchot Teshuvah,” a book about “how to repair All Kol Tzedek members are looking for, according harm,” as Fornari explained it. to the founding member, is to no longer have to drag Th e rabbi hopes to translate the text into a book of in an air-conditioner unit through the window for his own and use the lessons to inform his rabbinate High Holiday services in the fall. As well as to no lon- upon his return to Kol Tzedek in July. ger have to wear scarves and mittens during services “Change and transformation are not only possible in the winter. but a constant part of the world,” he said. “We’re liv- A community that gained 100 new members during ing in a time where there’s a lot of feeling we need to the pandemic would simply like to gather comfort- do and repair to stay in relationship with our family, ably. As Fornari explained, Kol Tzedek, like many our friends, our community.” JE synagogues, developed online prayer and learning experiences during COVID. But congregants need to jsaff ren@midatlanticmedia.com Courtesy of Kol Tzedek  n 5783, and in the seventh year under its second religious leader, Rabbi Ari Lev Fornari, Kol Tzedek in West Philadelphia has about 370 households in its congregation. What started as a “simple cha- vurah,” as a 2016 Jewish Exponent article put it, in the apartment of founder Rabbi Lauren Grabelle Hermann in 2002 has grown into a Reconstructionist community that rivals some of its Reform, suburban contemporaries in size. Th e community grew from that “simple chavurah” to 140 households by the time of Grabelle Hermann’s departure in 2016. And under Fornari, it has more than doubled. About 90% of those congregants live in Philadelphia, and around 60% walk to the shul. Th erefore, it’s time to fi nd a permanent home, according to synagogue leaders. As a fundraising campaign on Kol Tzedek’s web- site explains, “5783 marks the 18th anniversary” of the synagogue. And the number 18 corresponds to “chai,” or “life.” So to keep the temple alive and thriv- ing, the Reconstructionist community is starting a grassroots eff ort to raise $360,000. If collected, that money will go towards a new physical space that the synagogue will either purchase or rent. At the moment, the temple shares a space with Calvary United Methodist Church, and the building is aging. Kol Tzedek needs wheelchair accessibility, heating in the winter, air conditioning in the sum- mer, proper ventilation and bathrooms that work on a consistent basis, according to Naomi Segal, a founding member. “We have none of that at Cavalry,” she said. “It’s just an old, beat-up building.” To help fi nd a new, robust home, Kol Tzedek lead- ers are asking members to donate in the symbolic multiple of 18. Th at could mean $18, $18,000 or $180,000, according to the website page about the campaign. But any amount will help. Th e synagogue wants to remain in its Cedar Park neighborhood so congregants can continue to walk to temple activities. But real estate in the area is expensive, so renting may be the best bet, according to Segal, who went as far as to say that “nobody wants us to own or build.” “It’s a money trap. We’ve watched other syna- gogues collapse, or almost collapse, from fi nancial issues,” she added. “We don’t want that.” Segal also does not believe that Kol Tzedek can raise the millions of dollars that it will likely take to buy a building in Cedar Park. Th e synagogue’s membership is a mix of students, people who have d’var torah Prayerful Engagement By Rabbi Nathan Martin T Parshat Vayigash his week’s parshah brings the Joseph saga to its dramatic resolution. Judah pleads with Joseph to imprison himself rather than his brother Benjamin, whom he had pledged to bring home safely from Egypt (See Genesis 44). Something about Judah’s behavior breaks open Joseph’s heart leading Joseph, in an act of cathartic healing, to cry and wail and then reveal his true identity to his brothers. Th is compact section of our story speaks volumes about the human potential for growth and transforma- tion. Judah takes full responsibility for his pledge of keeping his brother safe, and Joseph is able to move away R. Yehuda — one in which we engage a situation and expect confl ict. While this approach can be instrumental in the struggle for change, it is not partic- ularly transformational. Judah’s second approach towards compromise, put forth by R. Nehemia, is more of a movement towards the art of the possible; it suggests the idea of not having to surrender one’s core values but allowing a certain fl exibility in service of a greater goal. In times of political deadlock, fi nding paths for- ward that help us to put aside core diff erences toward the greater good are important ways of cultivating a greater sense of common purpose with each other. But I fi nd the most intriguing teach- ing of the midrash to be the position of the rabbis who said that Judah’s approach was an approach to prayer. this person is standing before me. May the suff ering he is experiencing to cause him to lash out be eased.” I am sure that you can expand upon Judah’s inner prayer as well. It is this third approach that seems to be the one that leads to the most transformation. As we continue to face challenges in our lives, perhaps it is the call of the rabbis in our midrash that off ers the promise of growth. Judah’s approach is perhaps modeling for us the question of how can we cultivate a spiritual aware- ness in our lives that centers openness, humility and a call for compassion, even if the face of irrational behavior. Th is may not always be possible — sometimes, change needs to be fought for — but this approach could ulti- mately lead to deeper transformation. May we be inspired and fi nd ways to emulate Judah’s prayerful approach to confl ict in the year ahead, and trans- form ourselves and each other. JE Nathan Martin serves as the associate rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel of Media and is also the board chair of Pennsylvania Interfaith Power and Light, an organization dedicated to mobilizing people of faith to take bold and just action on climate change. Th e Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia is proud to provide diverse perspectives on Torah commentary for the Jewish Exponent. Th e opinions expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not refl ect the view of the Board of Rabbis. These past six years have been a particularly politically confl ictual period in our country’s history. from a path of revenge towards one of compassion. In a careful reading of the fi rst three words of this portion, “and Judah approached,” the midrash suggests that Judah’s approach had diff erent possible motivations: “ ‘And Judah approached’ R. Yehuda said it was an approach to war … R. Nehemia says it was an approach to compromise … and the rabbis said it was an approach to prayer (Genesis Rabbah 93,6).” I fi nd this midrashic read a helpful perspective for us today. Th ese past six years have been a particularly politi- cally confl ictual period in our coun- try’s history. Th e growth of hate speech and the siloing of online conversations among those who share similar beliefs and perspectives has led to a lack of tolerance and understanding across the political spectrum. Th is political deadlock and con- fl ict echo the fi rst stance of Yehuda’s understood approach articulated by At fi rst, this seems misplaced; is the middle of a power struggle between the brothers a time for prayer? My local colleague and teacher, Reconstructionist Rabbi Jacob Staub, when writing about prayer, does not see prayer as a petition to a higher power but rather as a path that “allows us to center our focus, to look inward, to be elevated beyond our individ- ual concerns,” where ultimately “the answer to our prayers comes not from a supernatural God but from our own transformed hearts.” What if this is the action Judah was engaged with? What if Judah, under- neath his words, was praying for his own repair, in the form of: “I don’t have all the answers for why this confl ict is happening, but please give me wisdom, patience, and an open mind and heart to see a path forward.” And what if he was praying for Joseph’s healing as well, in the form of: “I can see how distressed and angry JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 25 calendar D E C E M B E R 30J A N U A RY 6 engaging, multi-session course for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish life, from Nov. 2 to March 8 from 7-8:30 p.m. There is no charge for congregants and $180 per device for non- congregants. For more information, contact Ruth Scott, director of community engagement, at ruth@kolaminj.org. 1101 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill, NJ. W E D N E S D AY, J A N . 4 S I S T E R H O O D S T U DY P RO G RA M The Congregations of Shaare Shamayim’s Rabbi Sandi Berliner will be teaching a class on “Words of Wisdom from Jewish Ethics” as part of the Sisterhood Study Program at 10 a.m. every Wednesday in January and the first two Wednesdays in February. For further information, please call the synagogue office at 215-677-1600. 9768 Verree Road, Philadelphia. TH U RSDAY, JA N . 5 CANASTA GAME Ohev Shalom of Bucks County Sisterhood invites the community to a friendly weekly canasta game, Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. Open play is $4. Call 215-968-6755 for more information. 944 Second Street Pike, Richboro. ronniechua / AdobeStock EXPLORING JEWISH AFTERLIFE FRI DAY, DE C. 30 PARSHA FOR LIFE Join Rabbi Alexander Coleman, Jewish educator and psychotherapist at the Institute for Jewish Ethics, at 9 a.m. for a weekly journey through the Torah with eternal lessons on personal growth and spirituality. Go to ijethics.org/weekly-torah- portion.html to receive the Zoom link and password. M O N DAY, JA N. 2 MAHJONG GAME Melrose B’nai Israel Emanu-El Sisterhood invites the community to join their weekly friendly mahjong game Mondays at 7 p.m. The cost is $36 per year or free with MBIEE Sisterhood Membership. For more information, call 215-635-1505 or email office@mbiee.org. 8339 Old York Road, Elkins Park. TUESDAY, JAN . 3 BINGO WITH BARRY Join Barry at Tabas Kleinlife for an afternoon of bingo at 12:45 p.m. on Jan. 3 and 4. Free parking and free play with snacks are available on Jan. 4. For more information, call 215-745-3127. 2101 Strahle St., Philadelphia. Chai. 26 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM WE D N E SDAY, JAN . 4 ENTERING THE MISHKAN In this three-part series, starting at 10:30 a.m., Congregation Kol Ami and Rabbi Jennifer Frenkel will be looking at our Shabbat prayerbook, Mishkan T’filah, its design and use and opportunities for personal and communal prayer and reflection. Register at kolaminj.shulcloud.com/ event/enteringmishkanjan2023. Questions? Please email AdultEd@ kolaminj.org or call 856-489-0029. INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM Introduction to Judaism at Congregation Kol Ami is an Is the afterlife a part of Judaism? Through an exploration of sacred texts, storytelling and discussion, Congregation Kol Ami and Rabbi Simcha Raphael will explore teachings on Jewish views of the afterlife in a First Thursday event at 7:30 p.m. Register at kolaminj.shulcloud.com/event/ firstthursjan2023. Questions? Please email AdultEd@kolaminj.org or call 856-489-0029. FRIDAY, JA N . 6 MUSICAL KABBALAT SHABBAT Join Beth Sholom Congregation’s Rabbi David Glanzberg-Krainin, Cantor Jacob Agar and the band at 6 p.m for a musical Kabbalat Shabbat. The community is welcome to attend. Call 215-887-1342 for information. 8231 Old York Road, Elkins Park. JE News for people who know we don’t mean spiced tea. Every Thursday in the JEWISH EXPONENT and all the time online @jewishexponent.com. For home delivery, call 215.832.0710. Courtesy of Gilad Kavalerchik Courtesy of Stephanie Hampson around town 4 2 5 3 6 Courtesy of the Friends Select School  Courtesy of Nachi Troodler  Courtesy of the Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties Courtesy of Sharon Sussman  1 1 Seniors from KleinLife’s Russian-speaking active adult life program celebrated their November birthdays. 2 Fairmount resident Ari Sussman saw his composition premiere with the New York Youth Orchestra at Carnegie Hall on Nov. 20. 3 The Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties named Dawn Ragland as its director of healthy community initiatives. 4 Philadelphia residents Evan Frank, Wendy Mailman and Eric Ratner participated in the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces’ 7th Annual Israel Bike Mission from Nov. 11-17. 5 The Jewish Friends and Family Group put together an Eagles “watch party” during Chanukah, complete with latkes, sufganiyot, a dreidel tournament and a gelt scavenger hunt, while the Eagles game played in the background, on Dec. 11 at the Friends Select School. 6 The boys and girls basketball teams from Kohelet Yeshiva and the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy played each other at the Wells Fargo Center on Dec. 11. The Barrack girls won handily, and the Kohelet boys came out on top by five points. JEWISHEXPONENT.COM 27 last word EAGLES ANNOUNCER Merrill Reese Jarrad Saffren | Staff Writer J im Gardner just retired after 46 years as Philadelphia’s anchorman on 6abc. Angelo Cataldi is on the verge of stepping away after 33 years as the region’s top-rated sports talk radio host on WIP-FM. And earlier in 2022, Ray Didinger retired after a five-de- cade run as Philadelphia’s most trusted sportswriter and voice. But amid this wave of Philly media retirements, Merrill Reese soldiers on. The voice of the Philadelphia Eagles on 94.1 WIP is in his 46th season of call- ing games every Sunday (and occasion- ally, on Thursday, Saturday or Monday) in the fall and winter. And at the age of 80, he has no plan to end his career. He re-signed with WIP in March to call games through the 2024 season. “I want to do it forever,” said the Jewish announcer and longtime mem- ber of Congregation Beth Or in Maple Glen. “I float for the three hours we’re on the air, and I love the preparation during the week.” Reese enjoys his job every year, regardless of how good or bad the Eagles may be. But he acknowledged that 2022 has been particularly excit- ing. The Birds are 13-2 and a win away from clinching the top seed in the NFC for the upcoming playoffs. A second Super Bowl within a five- year span seems possible. And that means Reese may get to relive the day he calls the highlight of his career: Feb. 4, 2018, when the Nick Foles- led Eagles defeated the Tom Brady-led New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The announcer has seen a lot of Eagles teams. He noted that this one compares to the 2017 club and the other great Eagles squads that he’s cov- ered. Philadelphia’s quarterback, Jalen Hurts, is an MVP candidate. And the 2022 roster just sent eight players — 28 Hurts, running back Miles Sanders, wide receiver A.J. Brown, offensive linemen Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson and Landon Dickerson, linebacker Haason Reddick and cornerback Darius Slay — to the Pro Bowl. “I think this is one of the most tal- ented teams I’ve been around,” Reese said. “I can’t think of a weakness.” It is ultimately the success of the Eagles that makes the difference in Reese’s year. That’s because nothing else really changes for him. He listens back to games from the previous sea- son before training camp every year to find out what he can do better, like using certain words less or speeding up DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM during parts of the game more. Then, he goes to training camp every day to, as he describes it, “immerse myself in NFL football.” Once the season starts, the announcer devotes his days, and even three hours each night, to memorizing jersey numbers, statistics and other relevant information. His wife, Cindy Reese, a former educator in Horsham, will walk around the house and call out jersey numbers. She said “88” last week, for instance, and Reese responded by saying, “CeeDee Lamb,” the Dallas Cowboys receiver who wears that num- ber. (The Eagles played Dallas on Dec. 24.) On the day of his interview with the Jewish Exponent, Reese asked to do it at 3 p.m., after he attended press conferences with Eagles coordinators Shane Steichen (offense) and Jonathan Gannon (defense). “He hasn’t changed as he’s had more years or gotten more popular,” Cindy Reese said. From the time Reese turned 3 years old, he has been transfixed by football, baseball and other sports on the radio. He used to attend Eagles games as a kid in the 1950s at Connie Mack Stadium and Franklin Field and use binoculars to stare up at Bill Campbell, the team’s announcer at the time, in the broadcast booth. As a student at Temple University, Reese called football, baseball and bas- ketball games for the student station. After graduating, he worked for local stations in Pottstown and Levittown doing sports updates and a news show. Then, in the early 1970s, he audi- tioned to do sports updates for WIP in Philadelphia while sports director Charlie Swift was on summer vacation for a month. His first update was so good that the station signed him up to host Eagles pre- and postgame shows before he left the studio. By 1977, Reese had joined Swift in the booth as his color commentator. And then, in December, Reese got a call at 2:30 a.m. from a friend of Swift’s: The announcer’s mentor had taken his own life. “A chill went through my body,” Reese said. The 35-year-old took over play-by- play duties that Sunday. Before the game, the players on each sideline turned to face the broadcast booth for a moment of silence for Swift. Reese just hoped that “something would come out of my mouth,” he recalled. But then it did. “And I’ve been doing it ever since,” he said. JE jsaffren@midatlanticmedia.com Courtesy of Merrill Reese MAY CALL GAMES FOR THE REST OF HIS LIFE SEASHORE SALE LOVE where here you LIVE LIV HHT Office 609-487-7234 #1 IN NEW JERSEY FOR LARGE TEAM SALES VOLUME *RealTrends 2021 www.HartmanHomeTeam.com NEW PRICE! OCEAN CITY NEW PRICE! $659,000 CHARMING & WELL MAINTAINED 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM HOME ON BAY AVENUE! NEW PRICE! VENTNOR LOWER CHELSEA $710,000 DIRECT OCEANFRONT IN THE BERKLEY! 2 BEDS, 2 FULL BATHS PLUS BONUS DEN OR OFFICE! NEW LISTING! $1,650,000 ONE-OF-A-KIND SOUTHSIDE ON ST. LEONARD’S TRACT! REMODELED 7 BED, 4.5 BATH ON OVERSIZED LOT. 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Call Safe Step 1-833- 437-1428 TUTORING EDUCATION PLUS Private tutoring, all subj ects, elemen.-college, SAT/ACT prep. 7 days/week. Expd. & motivated instructors. (215)576-1096 www.educationplusinc.com 30 DECEMBER 29, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM Legals Maxim Plaza PS Owners’ Association has been incorpo- rated under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporations Law of 1988. NONPROFIT CORP. - NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT, Articles of Inc. were filed with the Dept. of State for PARTNERS FOR SACRED PLACES SUPPORTING ORGANIZATION, a nonprofit corporation organized under the PA Nonprofit Corp. Law of 1988, exclusively for charitable purposes. CHANGE OF NAME NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CIVIL DIVISION OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY Court of Common Pleas for the County of Philadelphia, December Term, 2022. Notice is hereby given that on March 23, 2023 the petition of Thanh H. Tran was filed, praying for a decree to change his name her daughter Emma Hoa Nguyen’s name to Emma Pham. The Court has fixed March 23, 2023 at 9:00 am, in Room 6F, 6th Floor, 1501 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102 for the hearing. All persons interested may appear and show cause if any they have, why the prayer of the said petition should not be granted. Tracy R. Sauler, Esp. 1019 S. 8th St. Ste 4 Philadelphia, PA 19147 Solicitor ESTATE OF AARON JENKINS, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia, PA. Letters of Administration on the above estate have been granted to the under- signed. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or for- ward payment to, Keisha Jenkins, Administratrix, 1446 W. Sparks St., Philadelphia, PA 19141 or to their attorney Mu’min F. Islam, Esq., MFI Law Group, PLLC, 1117 Ivy Hill Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19150. ESTATE OF ANNA MARIE DeTRANO-ROSSI, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or de- mands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to PASQ UALE DeTRANO, EXECUTOR, c/o Howard M. Soloman, Esq., 1760 Market St. Ste. 404, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Or to his Attorney: HOWARD M. SOLOMAN 1760 Market St. Ste. 404 Philadelphia, PA 19103 ESTATE OF BLAKE JORMAN BRADLEY, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to HOWARD M. SOLOMAN, ADMINISTRATOR, 1760 Market St. Ste. 404, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Or to his Attorney: HOWARD M. SOLOMAN 1760 Market St. Ste. 404 Philadelphia, PA 19103 ESTATE OF BONNIE K. CRANER, DECEASED. Late of Telford Borough, Montgomery County, PA LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to BRUCE H. BENJAMIN a/k/a BRUCE HERBERT BENJAMIN) , EXECUTOR, c/o Howard M. Soloman, Esq., 1760 Market St., Ste. 404, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Or to his Attorney: HOWARD M. SOLOMAN 1760 Market St., Ste. 404 Philadelphia, PA 19103 ESTATE OF CECIL EDWARD FLOYD, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to STEPHANIE MARIE FLOYD BROOKS, ADMINISTRATRIX, 16331 Hawfield Way Dr., #2412, Charlotte, NC 28277, Or to her Attorney: MARK J. DAVIS CONNOR ELDER LAW, LLC 644 Germantown Pike, 2-C Lafayette Hill, PA 19444 ESTATE OF CECIL FLOYD, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to STEPHANIE MARIE FLOYD BROOKS, ADMINISTRATRIX, 16331 Hawfield Way Dr., #2412, Charlotte, NC 28277, Or to her Attorney: MARK J. DAVIS CONNOR ELDER LAW, LLC 644 Germantown Pike, 2-C Lafayette Hill, PA 19444 ESTATE OF DORIS E. GNIEWEK, a/k/a DORIS GNIEWEK, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment with- out delay to LAUREEN GNIEWEK, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Harry Metka, Esq., 4802 Neshaminy Blvd., Ste. 9, Bensalem, PA 19020, Or to her Attorney: HARRY METKA 4802 Neshaminy Blvd., Ste. 9 Bensalem, PA 19020 ESTATE OF FRANCES AMELIA DUNMORE A/K/A FRANCES A. DUNMORE A/K/A FRANCES DUNMORE, DECEASED. LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to ERNEST C. DUNMORE, SR., ADMINISTRATOR, 1629 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145, Or to her Attorney: David H. Lipow O’Brien, Belland & Bushinsky, LLC 509 S. Lenola Rd Building 6 Moorestown, NJ 08057 ESTATE OF G. STEPHEN TINT, DECEASED. LETTERS of TESTAMENRY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to EXECUTOR, Or to Attorney: DAVID N RUBIN, ESQ 1500 JFK BLVD STE 1030 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 215-564-2672 ESTATE OF HAROLD LESTER HENDERSON, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to HAROLD A. HENDERSON and LISA WILKS, ADMINISTRATORS, c/o Jay E. Kivitz, Esq., 7901 Ogontz Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19150, Or to their Attorney: JAY E. KIVITZ KIVITZ & KIVITZ, P.C. 7901 Ogontz Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 ESTATE OF HARVEY GOLDBERG, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to CRISTINIA LOPUSZANSKI, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Jay E. Kivitz, Esq., 7901 Ogontz Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19150, Or to her Attorney: JAY E. KIVITZ KIVITZ & KIVITZ, P.C. 7901 Ogontz Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 ESTATE OF HAZEL LATHAM, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to REID OAKLEY, ADMINISTRATOR, c/o Jay E. Kivitz, Esq., 7901 Ogontz Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19150, Or to his Attorney: JAY E. KIVITZ KIVITZ & KIVITZ, P.C. 7901 Ogontz Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 ESTATE OF IVAN GOLOVISTIKOV, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to MARIANNA DMITRIEVA, ADMINISTRATRIX, 99 52 66 Rd., Apt. 1X, Rego Park, NY 11374 ESTATE OF JOHN P. HILL a/k/a JOHN HILL, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to ENEIDA HILL, ADMINISTRATRIX, c/o Kristen L. Behrens, Esq., 1500 Market St., Ste. 3500E, Philadelphia, PA 19102, Or to her Attorney: KRISTEN L. BEHRENS DILWORTH PAXSON LLP 1500 Market St., Ste. 3500E Philadelphia, PA 19102 ESTATE OF JOSEPH FRANCIS LAWSON a/k/a JOSEPH F. LAWSON, SR., DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to MATTHEW LAWSON, EXECUTOR, c/o Joseph T. Pace, Esq., 8515 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19136, Or to his Attorney: JOSEPH T. PACE LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS J. METTEE, P.C. 8515 Frankford Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19136 ESTATE OF KEVIN DOERR, JR., DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia, PA. Letters of Administration on the above estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or forward payment to Kevin Doerr, Administrator, 517 Oak Lane, Tamaqua, PA 19252 or to their at- torney Mark Feinman, Esquire, 8171 Castor Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19152. ESTATE OF LOUISE BARLOW, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to AQ UILA N. LEVY, EXECUTRIX, c/o Jay E. Kivitz, Esq., 7901 Ogontz Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19150, Or to her Attorney: Jay E. Kivitz Kivitz & Kivitz, P.C. 7901 Ogontz Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 ESTATE OF MARIAN SZCZEPANSKI DECEASED Late of Philadelphia, PA. LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION on the above estate have been granted to the un- dersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same, and all persons in- debted to the decedent to make pay- ment without delay, to Administrator, Piotr Bagniewski. Beneficiaries Renata Iwanska, Edyta Agnieska Zawadzka. The Law Offices of Jon Taylor, Esquire, PC, 1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 1888, Philadelphia, PA19103 the estate attorney ESTATE OF MARIE ROSE McBRIDE, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to ALBERT EDWARD MCBRIDE, III, EXECUTOR, 1322 Amosland Rd., Prospect Park, PA 19076 ESTATE OF MARILYN E. GARDELLIS, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make pay- ment without delay to GEORGE C. GARDELLIS, JR., EXECUTOR, c/o Harry Metka, Esq., 4802 Neshaminy Blvd., Ste. 9, Bensalem, PA 19020, Or to his Attorney: HARRY METKA 4802 Neshaminy Blvd., Ste. 9 Bensalem, PA 19020 ESTATE OF MONICA ANN HEALEY, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia, PA. Letters of Administration on the above estate have been granted to the under- signed. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or for- ward payment to Patrick J. Healey, Esq., Administrator, 7104 McCallum St., Philadelphia, PA 19119. ESTATE OF NANCY M. ELLIS, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or de- mands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment with- out delay to ANGELA CAROLINE ELLIS, EXECUTRIX, c/o Daniella A. Horn, Esq., 2202 Delancey Place, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Or to her Attorney: DANIELLA A. HORN KLENK LAW, LLC 2202 Delancey Place Philadelphia, PA 19103 ESTATE OF ROSARIA PENA-MESTRE, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Joel Mestre, Administrator, 1626 West End Dr., Point Pleasant, NJ 08742 ESTATE OF SALI HELLER NEFF a/k/a SALI NEFF, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to ANDREW J. HELLER, EXECUTOR, 403 Atwood Rd., Glenside, PA 19038 ESTATE OF SONDRA BROWNWELL, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia, PA. Letters Testamentary on the above estate have been granted to the under- signed. All persons having claims against or indebted to the estate should make claims known or for- ward payment to Mark Feinman, Esquire, Executor, 8171 Castor Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19152. ESTATE OF SONDRA HARTENBAUM Late of Montgomery County, PA. LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to Executors GLEN HARTENBAUM, 3982 Martin Road, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 Or DAVID HARTENBAUM, 1600 White House Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002. ESTATE OF TAJ’ANAE SHATAYA VANESSA SILER, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to WILLIAM ANTHONY CALANDRA, ADMINISTRATOR, c/o Kristen L. Behrens, Esq., 1500 Market St., Ste. 3500E, Philadelphia, PA 19102, Or to his Attorney: KRISTEN L. BEHRENS DILWORTH PAXSON LLP 1500 Market St., Ste. 3500E Philadelphia, PA 19102 ESTATE OF THIEM OU GOV, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS TESTAMENTARY on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to JIM ME GOUV, EXECUTOR, c/o Martin J. Pezzner, Esq., 100 W. 6th St., Ste. 204, Media, PA 19063, Or to his Attorney: MARTIN J. PEZZNER GIBSON & PERKINS, P.C. 100 W. 6th St., Ste. 204 Media, PA 19063 BUSINESS / LEGAL DIRECTORIES ESTATE OF TYRONE DAVID TYLER, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebt- ed to the decedent to make pay- ment without delay to SHARRON TYLER, ADMINISTRATRIX, 4682 N. Sydenham St., Philadelphia, PA 19140 ESTATE OF VIDAL MESTRE- HERNANDEZ, DECEASED. Late of Philadelphia County LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to JOEL MESTRE, ADMINISTRATOR, 1626 West End Dr., Point Pleasant, NJ 08742 www.jewishexponent.com Jewish Exponent PHILADELPHIA Confirm your mailing address for our weekly edition and online content! Never miss the Jewish Exponent! Careers.com Jewish Complete the form and mail or call 215.832.0700, ext. 1  Continue my subscription for the Jewish Exponent. Address City Name (Please print) Signature For Those Who Value Community Date * Signature and date required to be valid by the US Postal Service. Restrictions apply. 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