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Todah Morim! Thank you, teachers! An appreciation of our day school educators during this pandemic. See page 13
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contents March 4-10, 2021 / 20-26 Adar 5781 | VOLUME CLIX, ISSUE 5
24
20 Purely Commentary 6-12
Our Community 13
Todah Morim!
Thank you, teachers! An appreciation of our day school educators during this pandemic.
16
Seder Friends
The Well creates virtual Passover experience.
17
Crude and Creepy
Podcast examines indignities women receive from men on dating apps.
18
A Tribute to Family
20
22
24
Business
26
Preparing for the ‘Big Day’
27
White-Collar Warrior
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Boutique gym studio goes online, adds new program for brides-to-be. From Jimmy Hoffa to Kwame Kilpatrick, attorney has seen it all.
Mazel Tov! 28
Milestones
Spirit 29
Torah portion
Nosh 30
Pesach Dinner — Ready to Go
Oakland U. president honors parents with $250,000 gift for racial and social justice.
Arts&Life
Fast Friends
Intergenerational buddies feed the people in their neighborhood.
Tall Trees with Tales to Tell
Under a snowy sky, bundled-up kiddies trek Tu b’Shevat trail.
Faces & Places
32
United in Song
34
Writing for Kids
35
A Life Story with Politics
36
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Musician uplifts Downtown Synagogue.
Prolific author’s four new books make kids laugh — and think.
New WSU Press book is a look back at Holocaust historian Lucy Dawidowicz.
Celebrity Jews
Events 37
Etc.
The Exchange 38 Obituaries 39 Danny Raskin 45 Looking Back 46 Shabbat Lights
Shabbat Starts: Friday, March 5, 6:09 p.m. Shabbat Ends: Saturday, March 6, 7:11 p.m.
* Times according to Yeshiva Beth Yehudah calendar.
ON THE COVER: Cover photo/credit: Farber teacher Mearyl Diskin with students Zev Gertner, Rina Reinherz and Eliora Jaffe. Photo by Ariella Shaffren Cover design: Michelle Sheridan
thejewishnews.com Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook @DetroitJewishNews Twitter @JewishNewsDet Instagram @detroitjewishnews
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PURELY COMMENTARY essay
Hebrew Campers Reunite — 55 Years Later
T
hey came from across the U.S. and even from Germany, virtually speaking. Many had not seen each other for more than 55 years. Those years melted away as the first “campers” from Camp Tamarack’s Hebrew Immersion unit, Kfar Ivri, met Doris over Zoom in Rubenstein February for a first-ever reunion. Twenty-five of the original campers from 1964-1966 and several members of the counseling staff met for three hours of reminiscing, catching up and singing songs in Hebrew. The reunion was the brainchild of two of the Kfar Ivri original campers, me (I now live in Richfield, Minn.) and Barbara Harris Klaristenfeld, who lives in Encino, Calif. I arranged a successful reunion for the teenage cast members of a Hebrew-language production of Fiddler on the Roof last year. The Kfar Ivri camping experience was far more intensive, which meant that if we could find our far-flung old friends, the response was sure to be good. We managed to find 34 campers and staff members; six have already died. Of the 34, 25 overcame time zones and prior commitments to come together and recall what was for many, one of the most formative experiences of their early lives. Prior to the Zoom event, all Kfarniks sent their biographical information to all others on the list. This assured that everyone was up to date on each other’s family and professional status, regardless of their ability to attend the reunion. During the nearly three hours of the event,
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each participant shared their favorite memory of the summers spent at Kfar Ivri and how the experience impacted the rest of their life. Celina “CeeCee” Aisner, now living in Colorado, told of what her Kfar Ivri summers mean to her. “When I first attended Kfar, I had been in the U.S. only four years — literally ‘off the boat’ — and felt I was always playing catch-up with my peers as I acculturated to the U.S and tried to deal with the normal developmental issues that we all faced at that age. “Kfar provided me with a safe and accepting environment where I could learn one way of being a Jewish kid in America. Before my first year at Kfar, I never had any Jewish religious experiences. At Kfar, I developed a deep appreciation of religious rituals, Shabbat services and a sense of Jewish community. To this day, when I’m at a service, and I hear the old camp melodies, I feel a mystical connection to all the Jews in the world including all my ancestors, and I literally get shivers down my spine.” A LOVE OF HEBREW We campers can only speculate what the motivations were for the United Hebrew Schools and Tamarack Camps in creating Kfar Ivri. Certainly, a major goal was to improve the Hebrew language abilities of the campers. More than one Kfarnik cited that it was the beginning of a “love affair with the Hebrew language.” If another goal was to create leaders for the American Jewish community, then that, too, was largely achieved. At least four rabbis spent time at
On “Beatnik Night” in 1964, Mark Schneider, Joel Roth, Eddie Betel and Zevi Miller got in the groove.
Kfar Ivri Staff 1965: Jerry Kohen (CIT), Frieda Minc, Mark Roth, Joel Roth and Barbara Roth Kramer, Danny Siegel, Barbara Harris (Klaristenfeld).
Kfar Ivri: Sanford Olshansky of Florida, Daniel Shevitz of Los Angeles, and Beverly Weintraub Magidson of Albany, N.Y. Rabbi Joel Roth of New Jersey and Israel was head counselor in 1964 and 1965. Others have long records of leadership in Jewish communal life: Andrew Beider was a founder of Yad Ezra in the Detroit area; Avrum “Avery” Harris has taught Tanach for over 15 years in a California chavurah; Zevi Miller, a professor at Miami University in Ohio, has been engaged with campus Hillel ever since he met his wife at the University of Michigan Hillel; Ron Sussman of Ann Arbor, who was the “maintenance guy” at Kfar Ivri in 1965 and 1966, has been engaged with Habonim Dror for more than 35 years. Still others made their careers with Jewish-sponsored institutions. Three made aliyah. Rabbi Magidson said after the event that she felt the Zoom format was the best for this time and this group. Given the great geographic dispersal of
the grown-up Kfarniks and our many family commitments, the likelihood of having a successful in-person reunion would have been dismal. A SECOND CHANCE? For those unable to attend, they still will be able, thanks to 21st-century technology, to view a recording of the entire Zoom reunion on a password-protected YouTube site. Avery Harris called for a follow-up in the near future so that those who missed the event can have a second chance to share some time in person. Will it happen? Will there be some movement toward having a weekend at Tamarack with our families in attendance as well? While the JN Archives have no mention of Kfar Ivri after 1988, for the campers at this reunion, the last words sung were the last words of the Kfar Ivri song: “We shall return to your gates.” Doris Rubenstein retired from fundraising and now is a freelance writer in Richfield, Minn.
JewishNews Blmfd 2021 Half Page Horizontal copy.pdf 1 2/10/2021 1:44:46 PM
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PURELY COMMENTARY guest column
O
n NBC’s Saturday Night Live on Feb. 20, comedian Michael Che “joked” that Israel had vaccinated half of its population — the Jewish half. The point is not whether Che or the Alan “joke” were Edelstein Times of Israel antisemitic. The questions are whether it is true and if it encourages prejudice and violence against Jews. Critiquing Israel is fine. Israelis and Jews do it all the time. However, a one-off joke about Jews keeping a vaccine only for themselves, without context and devoid of any truth is not — given Jewish history and current threats —
a critique. And the joke did not appear out of nowhere. The joke would not have been made if the audience had not been subjected to weeks of misinformation and unfair allegations against Israel for the alleged sin of not providing vaccines to Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza. In short, it was the natural outcome of a sustained campaign of lies — the types of lies that have led to injury and death to Jews in the past. Israel is vaccinating all its citizens regardless of religion or ethnic or national background. This includes the almost 2 million Israeli citizens who are Arab. This is unremarkable because all Israelis are covered equally by Israel’s universal health
SCREENSHOT, JNS
Not Funny, Very Hateful
SNL “Weekend Update” anchor Michael Che
care system. What prompted the “joke” was undoubtedly the unfair and unjustified charges that Israel is not providing the vaccine to the West Bank and Gaza. The “joke” was neither funny nor accurate.
On Dec. 21, the Palestinian Authority declared that it was not seeking vaccines from Israel and that it was securing its own supplies. Israeli offers to coordinate efforts were rejected. But once several human continued on page 12
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MISSION STATEMENT The Detroit Jewish News will be of service to the Jewish community. The Detroit Jewish News will inform and educate the Jewish and general community to preserve, protect and sustain the Jewish people of greater Detroit and beyond, and the State of Israel. VISION STATEMENT The Detroit Jewish News will operate to appeal to the broadest segments of the greater Detroit Jewish community, reflecting the diverse views and interests of the Jewish community while advancing the morale and spirit of the community and advocating Jewish unity, identity and continuity.
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PURELY COMMENTARY guest column
How to Build Bridges in a Divided World
T
he students in the Jewish Communal Leadership Program (JCLP) have the opportunity to explore a myriad of issues connected to Jewish communal life and beyond. Once per year, the students have an opportunity to bring an issue close to their hearts to the broader community. The past year has been shaped by a global pandemRebecca ic, protests for racial justice, Belkin extreme political polarization and more. So many in and outside the Jewish community faced personal crises and family tragedies. Through it all, we have seen communities rally to respond to those in need Kayla Kapen by forming and expanding mutual aid networks, advocating for comprehensive safety protocols and transparency, highlighting inequalities and finding ways to stay connected in the midst of so much physical isolation. Faith-based and interfaith organizations have been uniquely positioned to offer support in this time. This year’s JCLP students would love to explore why and how this is in their upcoming program, “Building Bridges in a Divided World: The Role of Interfaith Collaboration in Justice Work.” The event will take place over Zoom on Thursday March 18, from 6:30-9 p.m. letters
To Every Thing There Is a Season Since the article about my departure from pulpit life was published (Feb. 4, page 18), I have received some feedback from individuals questioning my commitment to feminism and egalitarian Judaism. To clarify what may not have
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Panelists involved in interfaith work across the country will discuss how they’ve been able to use their platforms and community infrastructure to give voice to societal issues, respond to community needs during COVID-19 and promote understanding among diversity through dialogue. Panelists include Aziza Hazan, Rev. Amanda Henderson, Pastor Aramis Hinds and Rabbi Samuel L. Spector. Hazan is the executive director of NewGround: A Muslim Jewish Partnership for Change in Los Angeles. Rev. Henderson is the director of the Institute of Religion, Politics & Culture at Iliff School of Theology in Colorado. Pastor Hinds is the lead pastor at Breakers Covenant Church International in Detroit. Rabbi Spector is the rabbi at Congregation Kol Ami in Salt Lake City. COOPERATION AMONG FAITHS More panelists will be announced in the coming weeks. JCLP students are proud to lift these voices up and learn together about how interfaith work and relationships can help build a more just and joyful world. The event will feature both the panel discussion as well as smaller group conversation in breakout rooms, to allow for more engaging and intimate dialogue. The second-year cohort is thrilled and honored to invite the public to learn about the experiences of interfaith professionals and how this important work can lead to justice and better support for all communities.
been obvious in the article, I am 100% committed to a world in which women have the opportunities and the support to work in whatever realms we choose. Having worked as a pulpit rabbi for nearly 17 years, I can say, unequivocally, that it is possible for a woman to be an excellent pulpit rabbi, wife and mother. Female pulpit
RSVP and register for this Zoom event at http://ssw.umich.edu/r/jclpcc21
Register using the link ssw.umich.edu/r/ jclpcc21. If you have questions, email Paige Walker at vpwalker@umich.edu. Rebecca Belkin and Kayla Kapen are second-year students in the Jewish Communal Leadership Program at the University of Michigan School of Social Work studying Community Organizing and Management of Human Services, respectively.
rabbis add a great deal to the profession, and I look forward to seeing many more women take on important leadership roles in society as a whole. That said, we each have a variety of different issues to take into consideration when determining what work/ life balance looks like in our individual lives at any given time. Kohelet wisely wrote, “To
every thing there is a season”, and continuing to work as a pulpit rabbi is simply not right for me at this particular life juncture. I appreciate this opportunity to clarify my decision and to demonstrate my ongoing support for everyone working to balance all that is precious. L’shalom. — Rabbi Rachel Shere
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PURELY COMMENTARY
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continued from page 8
rights groups and other organizations started criticizing Israel, and once there were delays in the delivery of the Russian Sputnik vaccine that the P.A. had ordered, the P.A. reversed its position.
And we understand how that canard has been used through the centuries to paint Jews as evil and subhuman and to discriminate against them, to engage in pogroms and to send them to ovens.
“IN SHORT, IT WAS THE NATURAL OUTCOME OF A SUSTAINED CAMPAIGN OF LIES — THE TYPES OF LIES THAT HAVE LED TO INJURY AND DEATH TO JEWS IN THE PAST.” — ALAN EDELSTEIN
Why not turn an unfortunate snag in getting the vaccine into a chance to bash Israel a bit? The usual suspects were sure to join in. Israel has shipped several thousand doses to the P.A. for health care workers and some other essential workers, and, as part of a broader hostage deal, Israel has reportedly bought $1 million worth of Russian vaccine for Syria. Michael Che’s comment is not funny, not based on fact and contributes to a dangerous environment for Jews. And it contributes to the campaign to delegitimize Israel, whether intended to or not. The reason many Jews fail to see the humor in the “joke” is because we understand that the “joke” plays into the old canard that Jews are selfish, controlling, manipulative, sneaky people who watch out only for themselves.
And this is not far away. Think Poway and Pittsburgh. Understand that while it may not make national news, Jews are being beaten up and subjected to bigotry on a weekly, if not daily, basis. There is a reason virtually every Jewish day school in the U.S., every Jewish community center, many synagogues and other Jewish institutions have security guards, security codes, security fences and fearful people. So, joking about Jews being selfish, keeping lifesaving medicine to themselves is no joke. Whether intended or not, it is part of the mix of antisemitism that leads to Jewish injury, death and hurt. Alan Edelstein was a lawyer and lobbyist in California. He lives in Jerusalem and Sacramento, Calif., and blogs at edelsteinrandomthoughts.com.
OUR COMMUNITY
Todah W Morim!
hen everything shut abruptly last March, schools everywhere scrambled to figure out how to continue educating their students, with teachers quickly learning and adapting to new technology. Even for those learning in person, the pandemic poses many challenges. Everyone has to wear masks, which muffles their voices, fogs their glasses and doesn’t allow for students to see their teachers smile. They also
Thank You, Teachers! An appreciation of our day school educators during this pandemic. ROCHEL BURSTYN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Frankel Jewish Academy (FJA) has been learning in-person all year, except when high schools were closed briefly in November and December. In order to limit in-person interaction, the school day was adjusted, and classes now run from 8:30-1:20, with only 60-minute classes. FJA Director of Advancement Shana Kantor said, “This limits instructional time and makes projects Shana and science labs Kantor harder to do in short periods of time. Teachers have to quickly disinfect the desks and surfaces between each class. FJA is known for very interactive lessons, and teachers have had to adjust their lessons to account for 6-foot separation between students.” Deeply aware of how hard the teachers are working and how dedicated they are to their students, FJA has also made teacher appreciation a priority.
world,” she said. The spirit of extra appreciation has even seeped to the students, who are also more grateful for their teachers than ever before. FJA math instructor Christine Christine Chadwick Chadwick said, “Our students are great about thanking us for teaching during this crazy time and make an effort to say hello as they pass by my classroom. One student even emailed me during the summer just to say hi!”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FJA
Gratitude at FJA
FJA Director of Community Engagement Julie Ohana said, “FJA has always had a culture of gratitude … but during these trying times, everyone has felt even stronger about showing appreciation.” Early in the year, a group of parents, FJA’s “Parent Liaisons,” together with Ohana, decided to focus on faculty and staff appreciation. They have been planning parent events monthly that focus on this goal. Some projects have included making beaded mask chains, giving out personalized candy-grams and distributing challot from Dakota Bread to the teachers and staff. FJA social studies instructor and department chair Melanie Sesi says these small gifts make her feel supported and contribute to the Melanie overall learning Sesi environment at school. “Keeping our masks clean by providing chains and keeping our bellies and hearts full with delicious food and thoughtful words brings so much light to an otherwise difficult time in the
must socially distance and disinfect surfaces between uses. Still, teachers have truly risen to the occasion. Dr. Darin Katz, head of school at Hillel Day School, declared: “Our teachers are truly our frontline heroes,” a sentiment echoed by Jewish day schools around Detroit. Each school is so grateful for their teachers that they have been coming up with new and creative ways to express their hakarat hatov (appreciation). FJA English teacher Nicole Kahn wears a mask chain made by the Parent Liaisons on her class Instagram page.
“OUR STUDENTS ARE GREAT ABOUT THANKING US FOR TEACHING DURING THIS CRAZY TIME.” Joe Bernstein, FJA social studies instructor and parent, enjoying his candy-gram.
— FJA MATH INSTRUCTOR CHRISTINE CHADWICK continued on page 14
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continued from page 13 Mearyl Diskin and Judah Khodorkovsky
PHOTOS BY ARIELLA SHAFFREN
‘Fabulous’ at Farber
Farber co-PTO presidents Naomi Gardin and Jenny Schwartz
“WE HIGHLIGHT ONE OR TWO STAFF MEMBERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA WEEKLY AND CELEBRATE THEM.” — JENNY SCHWARTZ, FARBER PTO CO-PRESIDENT
Mearyl Diskin reads to students Ben Idler, Ezra Hazan and Leora Doppelt.
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Farber Hebrew Day School has been in-person for the Early Childhood Center and Elementary Divisions, with a hybrid of alternating in-person and virtual days for middle school and high school. According to Naomi Gardin and Jenny Schwartz, co-PTO presidents at Farber, teachers had to tweak their teaching style in order to engage students simultaneously in the classroom and on the computer, and get used to new technology such as webcams, doc cams and microphones. Plastic desk dividers now separate all desks in the elementary school. Some teachers even create special learning packets and personally drop off supplies and coursework at their students’ homes. Hardest of all, according to Gardin, is that there’s no in-person interaction with or feedback from parents because they’re not allowed in the school yet — another COVID precaution. “Gone are the daily interactions with teachers in the hallways as parents are now absent from the building. Gone are hot lunch volunteers. Many of our standard yearly programs have become logistically impossible,” Gardin said. To raise the spirits of the staff and to help parents get to know the staff virtually, the school launched Farber Fabulous Faculty in November. Staff members were sent a Google form questionnaire.
Then, Schwartz said, “We highlight one or two staff members on social media weekly, share their bios and pictures, celebrate them and learn more about them.” Parents comment with appreciative messages, “likes” and share these Facebook posts, which have reached as many as 1,700 people. Mearyl Diskin, first grade general studies and eighth grade algebra teacher, has been a much-loved teacher at Farber for eight years; her students even concocted a cheer in her honor complete with Jazz Hands (“Disky Disky Disky wooooo!”). Her profile said she loves Korean food, would love to visit the Maldives, has a beloved pet dog called Snoop, and was especially touched when the school put on simchah music and danced with her at a pre-Shabbat assembly to celebrate her engagement. After her profile was shared on social media, Diskin said, “This was such a nice way to connect with families and for them to see me without my mask on! It was also so uplifting to hear the positive comments written on Facebook and passed on through the halls … It really brightened my day.” Diskin was not the only one who felt this way; others teared up while reading the heartfelt comments. Schwartz said, “Seeing how touched the staff is by this initiative has shown us just how truly powerful our positive words can be.”
COURTESY OF HILLEL DAY SCHOOL
Hillel teachers wearing their fleece jackets: Brittany Borsen, Rachael Kellert, Lauren Partovich, Kim Stern, Michelle Wolfe and Betsy Wolf
Love at Hillel
TOP TO BOTTOM: Hillel teacher Julie Tigay. Head of School Dr. Darin Katz. Hillel PTO President Amy Sapeika.
For the ECC-Grade 8 students at Hillel Day School, learning has been in-person this year, except for about 10% of students whose families have opted for virtual learning. Of the teachers, Dr. Katz said, “They are teaching in masks all day, every day. They are providing an authentic, excellent education while ensuring that our students maintain physical distancing, wash their hands, wear their masks properly, and abide by all health and safety protocols. At the same time, they place importance on the students’ social and emotional welfare during this unprecedented time.” Hillel PTO President Amy Sapeika said, “We’re always appreciative of our teachers and staff, but we’re working even harder this year to make sure they know how much we value them and all that they do for our students.” Hillel parents sponsor a yearly mishloach manot (Purim treat packages) for
the teachers, but they made this year’s extra fitting. “It had a superhero theme because they truly are our superheroes,” Sapeika said. The Hillel Leadership Team has been bringing in coffee and sweet treats as an occasional “pick-meup” for faculty and staff. They even purchased warm, comfortable Hillel fleece jackets for every faculty and staff member. Julie Tigay has taught at Hillel for nine years; she teaches first and second grades and is the K-4 Language Arts coordinator. She enjoys the treats and loves her new jacket but says it’s the emotional support that matters most. “It’s not about the material things to me,” Tigay said. “It’s about being in-person and
feeling supported to do what I love … teach and support children. This year, more than ever, a little goes a long way. We have been showered with various treats, kind words and more ‘jean days’ than years past. But the true gift is being in-person with our students.” COVID considerations in the classroom can make it seem tempting for some to give up teaching and start doing something infinitely easier, like perhaps lion taming or oil rigging … but clearly these teachers are sticking it out because it’s a life’s calling and a passion. Local Jewish day schools and parent bodies certainly seem to know how fortunate they are to have such dedicated, hard-working teachers.
“OUR TEACHERS TRULY ARE OUR SUPERHEROES.” — HILLEL PTO PRESIDENT AMY SAPEIKA
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Seder Friends
COURTESY OF THE WELL
The Well creates virtual Passover experience. DANNY SCHWARTZ STAFF WRITER
W
ith Jews around the world preparing for their second virtual Passover experience, The Well’s yearly #Friendseder is coming back — with a twist. This year, the new addition is the #Friendseder Box Experience. The box, available for sale now, is a physical box filled with curated items. The box has the #Friendseder Haggadah and some other ritual resources, while also including innovative content allowing people to celebrate Passover and the experience of the seder itself in a totally new way, according to Marisa Meyerson, The Well’s operations manager. Some of what’s in the box is a surprise, and Meyerson doesn’t want it to give it all away just yet. “What we’re telling people to expect is not any of the traditional ritual items: no seder plate, no box of matzah, no grape juice or anything like that,” Meyerson said. “These are items that you wouldn’t typically assume to be a part of the Passover seder, but once we explain how they’re connected, you’ll
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never want to experience a seder without them.” Inspired by “Friendsgiving” (a recent custom of friends sharing a pre-Thanksgiving meal), #Friendseder was created to be a partner to the Passover seder.
and Keshet. One or two live “how-to” webinars will be held to walk people through the whole process of hosting a #Friendseder, with a chance to ask questions and have them answered during the session. The webinars will be recorded and posted for those who miss the initial times. To most effectively prepare, people are asked to submit any questions they may have for the Q&A by sending a message to info@friendseder.com. Dates and times are TBD, but people are encouraged to check back soon or sign up for email updates on the website. The #Friendseder Box and updated #Friendseder Haggadah are designed with digital needs in mind to accommodate people’s Passover experience in this whole new world. “Everything we’re going to host on #Friendseder is adaptable to use in-person or virtually, so we’re totally recognizing for a lot of people this is going to be their second virtual Passover,” Meyerson said. “What we’re hoping people get is the message and the reassurance that there’s always a new way to do something; there’s always a way to find some creativity and inspiration and reinvent ritual in a way that’s still meaningful but also fun and exciting.” The order form is on friendseder.com with the link being shared through The Well’s website and social channels as well.
“THERE’S ALWAYS A NEW WAY TO DO SOMETHING; THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY TO FIND SOME CREATIVITY AND INSPIRATION AND REINVENT RITUAL IN A WAY THAT’S STILL MEANINGFUL BUT ALSO FUN AND EXCITING.” — MARISA MEYERSON
Friendseder.com, built by The Well, provides resources including recipes, guidebooks, decor ideas, seder activities and more — some from them and some from their partners, including OneTable, Hazon, InterfaithFamily, Reboot, Moishe House, Haggadot.com
The boxes will be sold for $36. There will be an option to pay an additional amount of the customer’s choosing — which will go toward supporting #Friendseder overall and sponsoring boxes for those in the community who aren’t able to afford them at full price.
Sarey Ruden
Crude and Creepy
Podcast examines indignities women receive from men on dating apps.
ASHLEY ZLATOPOLSKY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
F
or nearly four years, Birminghambased artist and graphic designer Sarey Ruden has been transforming unsolicited messages from men on dating apps into thought-provoking artwork. By doing so, she aims to shine a light and drive conversation about the many issues women face in online dating. As the creator and owner of Sareytales: The Art of Online Dating, Ruden has built a community equally passionate about solving these problems. Women, she says, often receive messages on dating apps they don’t
want that are threatening in nature or make them feel uncomfortable. Through her Instagram page, which has more than 13,000 followers, she shares messages from men that she has personally received and the stories of other women to bring attention to this growing problem. These messages, she explains, can be misogynistic, creepy and sometimes even violent. Ruden, now 40, has experimented with online dating for nearly a decade and says the problems are only growing. The pandemic, she says, makes online dating that
much more challenging and dangerous for women due to isolation and growing dependency on dating apps. To take these important conversations one step further, Ruden launched a new podcast series called Once Upon a Feminist. The seven-episode series was released in its entirety and features in-depth discussions with dating experts and more to help answer the question of why some men behave this way in dating apps. Exploring the intersection of feminism and online dating, Once Upon a Feminist covers topics such as the impact of the #MeToo movement on dating and data that has been collected through dating apps, such as common misogynistic phrases that men tend to use. “I’m not a scholar; I’m an artist,” Ruden said. “It happened to be that my artwork inspired this feminist side in myself I didn’t know I had. I wanted to seek out expert advice on these topics.” Podcast guests include public radio and TV host Celeste Headlee, sex and relationship researcher Dr. Kristen Mark of the University of Minnesota, and male dating coach Tripp Kramer. Some conversations, Ruden said, were difficult to have, but she considers them to be productive in nature. Each 45-minute episode is less of an interview and more of a natural conversation that shares different viewpoints and theories about online dating. She believes her audience will be a mix of individuals in relationships and those who currently use online dating. “It might be comforting to hear some of these topics versus love stories,” Ruden said. Her Instagram followers, she added, were instantly drawn to the idea of a podcast because of the variety of areas it will cover, including communication tactics, technology and social media. Depending on demand, she says she’ll consider the idea of doing a second season. “I have mixed feelings,” Ruden, who attends Temple Israel, said. “It’s a well-produced project, and I’m super proud of it. I would love to do another [season] if it’s well received. That would be a dream.” Season one of Once Upon a Feminist can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other podcast platforms. “We’re led to believe all these different fairy tales about love and romance,” Ruden says of both the podcast and Sareytales. “It’s kind of a twist on that.” MARCH 4 • 2021
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF OU
OU President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz
Rabbi Richard and Bella Hirsch
A Tribute to Family
Oakland U. president honors parents with $250,000 gift for racial and social justice.
DANNY SCHWARTZ STAFF WRITER
O
akland University President Dr. Ora Hirsch Pescovitz still remembers going to the March on Washington with her parents in 1963 and sitting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have A Dream” speech. Pescovitz also remembers when her father responded to Dr. King’s call for clergy of all faiths to join him in Selma, Ala., for a pivotal voting rights demonstration; and being frightened by the
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idea he would possibly get hurt and not come home. Her father, national Reform Judaism leader Rabbi Richard G. Hirsch, worked alongside Dr. King and President Lyndon B. Johnson advising on the civil rights legislation of the mid-1960s. Decades later, Pescovitz is taking action herself to work toward racial and social justice while honoring her parents at the same time. In their honor, Pescovitz has made a $250,000 endowment gift — the Rabbi Richard G. and Bella Hirsch
Faculty Endowment for Racial and Social Justice. Based on the racial and social injustice of the past year and to further commit to OU’s goal of celebrating diversity, equity and inclusion, Pescovitz felt now was the time to take action. She wants the gift to focus on diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to OU’s faculty. “I think it’s very important we stimulate efforts related to our faculty because when students see faculty that look like them, I think they perform better and eventually they become better people,” Pescovitz said. “I really believe when you see diversity in our community, it benefits all of us.” The gift aims to aid the recruitment and retention of diverse faculty members as well as provide the structure for underrepresented minority faculty members to be successful educators and research investigators. “Studies show when students are taught by diverse faculty, they have a higher graduation rate and institutions perform better,” Pescovitz said. “That’s really what stimulated me.” The idea for the gift began
as a $25,000 donation during the annual All University Fund Drive. Following that, Pescovitz was inspired to increase her commitment to $250,000 with hopes of it reaching a million dollars or more down the line with support from other businesses and friends of the university. HONORING PARENTS Pescovitz has also created an endowment specifically honoring her late mother, Bella Rozencweig Hirsch, with a focus on biomedical ethics within the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Speaking candidly, Pescovitz said she was hesitant to put her faculty endowment gift to a name due to the commonly held Jewish belief that anonymous giving is the highest form of charity, but she believes this scenario called for two reasons to do otherwise. One reason was to honor her parents, two people she believes exemplify the values OU wants to emulate in the community. The other reason in going public is a hope of inspiring others to give philanthropically. “Even though Maimonides
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Rabbi Hirsch with President Lyndon B. Johnson
“I REALLY BELIEVE WHEN YOU SEE DIVERSITY IN OUR COMMUNITY, IT BENEFITS ALL OF US.” — DR. ORA HIRSCH PESCOVITZ
said it’s good to give anonymously, one reason to not give anonymously is I think it sets an example for other people,” Pescovitz said. “Fifteen minutes after I gave my gift, someone else at the university immediately gave another gift just because they were inspired.” The gift was announced in a recent OU board meeting via Zoom with Rabbi Hirsch in attendance. Hirsch, now in his mid-90s and living in Florida, didn’t know about the endowment beforehand and was surprised with the news.
“He thought that I was getting an award,” Pescovitz said. “He didn’t know it was actually in his honor.” Along with the Jewish concept of tikkun olam or “repairing the world,” Pescovitz said the concept of Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh can be applied to this type of philanthropic giving as well. “What it means is we’re all responsible for one another,” Pescovitz said. “Because we’re all responsible for each other, we really have an obligation to care for each other. I feel that way, and philanthropy is part of that.”
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OUR COMMUNITY
PHOTOS BY JERRY ZOLYNSKY
The three friends enjoy a “food challenge” in Sheila’s kitchen.
Fast Friends Intergenerational buddies feed the people in their neighborhood. STACY GITTLEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
H
ow sweet it is to have good neighbors during a pandemic. When 8-year-old twins Sara and Bella Selesny of Southfield get bored, they need to go no further than across the street to visit with their good friend Sheila Guyer, who is 80. There, ever since they can remember and were old enough to cross the street by themselves, Guyer’s home has been a place where on Shabbat afternoons they would enjoy the company of their neighbor. They spend the time playing games,
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reading from books like Amelia Bedelia or admiring Guyer’s collection of intricate pop-up books. When the pandemic canceled all summer camping activities, Guyer welcomed the girls over a few times a week to play and do other camp-style backyard activities. Over the years, Guyer has also taught the twins to sew, bake and cook. Since the pandemic set in, the two families have included one another in their pandemic bubble. When the girls were 5,
Sheila watches as the girls play Jenga.
the three started the “Sweet Café.” Run out of Guyer’s home, it is an exclusive eatery whose clients are limited to the Selesny family and a few other neighbors. Each week, the twins and Guyer plan simple menus of tuna and egg salad or grilled cheese sandwiches or baked macaroni and cheese, plus some baked treats and homemade ice cream sandwiches. The Sweet Café has served as many as 20 customers
per week. The twins split their earnings three ways — equally between themselves with the final third given to tzedakah. Before the pandemic, Guyer arranged and set up tables in her home, the girls designing menus and centerpieces. Now, customers place orders over the phone and pick them up on Guyer’s front porch. The twins’ father, Joey Selesny, said they are blessed to have two sets
Yad Ezra Holds Elections
Sheila Guyer and Sara and Bella Selesny
of grandparents who live nearby. Their friendship with their neighbor is one extra person they have in their life for a special intergenerational friendship. Over the years, Guyer has attended special school events at Farber Hebrew Day School, where Sara and Bella are third-graders, and even needlepointed covers for when the twins received their first siddur. Guyer was a high school teacher but spent most of her married life to the late Dr. Martin Guyer volunteering for Meals on Wheels and the National Council of Jewish Women. The Selesny family moved onto her street about nine years ago, but the friendship between the Selesny and Guyer families
stretches back 50 years. With her three grown children and their families living out of town, Guyer said she has welcomed the company of the Selesny twins as well as the rest of their family. “The girls are delightful and fun to be with,” Guyer said. “When the pandemic started, we kept apart and stayed in our homes. As we got used to things and things became routine, we carefully would let each other into each other’s homes starting in the spring and summer. I am very glad they expanded their [pandemic bubble] to include me. It has been a real lifesaver, and it is a relief to them, and me, to be in someone else’s four walls every now and again.”
Yad Ezra, Michigan’s only kosher food pantry, recently held elections for the Executive Melvin Committee Schwartz and Board of Directors for 2021. Elected to the Executive Committee were Melvin Schwartz, president; Daniel Cherrin, Marcy Fikany and David Sherman, vice presidents; Jeff Moss, treasurer; Ari Dolgin, secretary and Alan Reiter, immediate past president. Serving on the Board of Directors for 2021 are Nancy Baron, Michael Bassirpour, Dr. Beth Baver-Neff, Stacie Bernard, Laurie Bounds, Jason Brown, Sam Dubin, Tracie Fienman, Michael Gendelman, Channie Goldstein, Rabbi Shimshi
Jonas, Lisa Klein, Ron Kepes, Ruth Anne Lippitt, Jodi Michaelson, Brad Mutnick, Matt Ran, Frank Reinstein, Sandy Rosen, Julie Rosenbaum, Morris Rottman, Jeff Schwartz, Mallory Shiffman, Judy Thomas, Malka Torgow, Leslie Ungar and Ron Yolles. Yad Ezra past presidents include Jeffrey Appel, Richard Barr, Kenneth Bernard, Gary Dembs, Sanford Eisenberg, Michael Eizelman, Paul Finkel, Ruth Kahn, Nancy Kleinfeldt, Sam Rosenberg, Allan Sefton, Richard Simtob, Jeff Supowit, Andrew Zack and Howard Zoller. Advisory Panel appointees include Susie Citrin, Joel E. Jacob, Diane Klein, Sally Krugel, Arthur Liss, Rabbi A. Irving Schnipper, Howard Tapper and Neal F. Zalenko.
Mayors Fight Antisemitism American Jewish Committee (AJC) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors launched a national effort to combat antisemitism in late January. The two organizations, which have partnered on other projects, are calling on mayors across the country to sign a statement declaring that antisemitism is incompatible with fundamental democratic values. Mayors from Grand Rapids, Lansing, Muskegon, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights, Troy, Ann Arbor and Warren have
already signed up and “there are more to come,” said JCRC/ AJC Assistant Director Lauren Garfield-Herrin. “We have always called on mayors to speak out against hate crimes when they occur, and the statement we are inviting mayors to sign today provides a way for them to register their opposition to the dramatic increase in antisemitism we have experienced in our country and work together to reverse it,” said Conference of Mayors CEO and Executive Director Tom Cochran.
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David, Kate and 1½-year-old Shoshi Zenlea of Huntington Woods, with their furry friend.
Tall Treeswith Tales toTell
Under a snowy sky, bundled-up kiddies trek a Tu b’Shevat trail.
SHELLI LIEBMAN DORFMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
W
hen COVID-19 guidelines halted plans for the annual indoor Tu b’Shevat festivities typically held by The Shul and JCC’s PJ Library Detroit, the two could have just taken a pass on the programming and started up again next year. But then, instead of allowing the snowy, winter days to be a deterrent, they revised their plan to fit the times. Through the creation of two innovative Story Walk events, they brought families outdoors to enjoy the beauty of snow-covered pathways and learn about the holiday as they trekked the trails.
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The 35 families who participated came prepared, bundled in frigid-weather garb, aiming for good times and cups of hot chocolate at the finish. And, the forest-like surroundings were most fitting, since after all, Tu b’Shevat is the Jewish New Year of the Trees. “We had always celebrated the holiday with indoor, fun, family-friendly activities for our Hebrew school family, often inviting the community at large,” said Rochel Leah Eliefja of The Shul, who organized the event with her youth education and programming colleague Rivki Mann and PJ
Hadar Traison, 17 months, of Huntington Woods, discovers a scavenger hunt item.
Riley and Emma Cantor, 3, of West Bloomfield, get a ride along the trail from their mom, Stacey.
Library parent connectors Julie Rosenbaum, Natalie Friedman and Lindsey Lienert. “We’ve always loved working with PJ Library on our Tu b’Shevat and other holiday baking programs, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with so many friends, rolling out yummy doughs and making delicious treats and crafts,” Eliefja said. “That obviously could not happen this year, so we came up with this meaningful way to celebrate instead.” That celebration blended an engaging walk with the reading of a Tu b’Shevat children’s book and a discovery of the traditions
of the holiday. Families, mostly with younger children, but a few with teens, came out to the two Story Walks, held on Jan. 24 at Heritage Park in Farmington Hills and Jan. 28 at Scotia Park in Huntington Woods. Some trudged the trail pushing strollers or sporting baby carriers, while others were accompanied by winter-loving canines. During the hike, participants read Dear Tree (Hachai Publishing, 2010), the story of the relationship between a young boy and his favorite tree and the hopes and wishes he shared for the tree on Tu b’She-
U-M Lecture on Raoul Wallenberg
Sherri and David Somers of Farmington Hills, with 9-year-old Savannah, get ready to walk and read. Sara Hindin-Mor of Southfield, gets her pull-sled and baby carrier ready to set out on the path with Matanel, 5, Lavi, 1, and Ranan, 3. Six-year-old Aiden, Jaclyn, and 9-year-old Lily Arslanian; and Marcy Silver, all of Farmington, warm up with hot cocoa.
vat, written by Detroit native Doba Rivka Weber and illustrated by Phyllis Saroff. “The book’s pages were printed, with permission from the publisher, on large posters and attached to wooden posts,” Eliefja said. “The families went from post to post reading the book as they walked. They would read the story, thinking about the points brought out on ‘thoughts to ponder’ slips and try to figure out some funny tree-related riddles as well.” THE SEARCH WAS ON Each child received a gift bag with snacks and instructions for a scavenger hunt for the seven species of fruit and grain mentioned in the Bible that were hidden throughout the trail “When the kids spotted the items, they simply placed a fruit-scented sticker on their bag,” Eliefja said. “With every holiday so far during the pandemic, we’ve been trying to think out of the box how to create safe family programming,” Eliefja said. “We wanted to bring the joy of
these holidays to all, so people can celebrate their Judaism in a safe manner. We did Shofar in the Park, Sukkah in the Park, a Chanukah donut truck and the virtual Menorah in the D, and now Tu b’Shevat in the Park as well.” Rosenbaum, who said Tu b’Shevat is her favorite holiday, joined the walkers at Heritage Park. “They were so happy to see other humans and were so grateful to have something physical to do outside, even though it snowed the entire time,” she said. “It was the perfect place for the event, since Tu b’Shevat is all about being outside and being amidst the trees.” At the end of each of the two trails, participants were poured piping hot cocoa to warm themselves up after a frigid Story Walk. “We had a crazy blizzard on one of the days, and freeeezing cold on the other,” Eliefja said. “But people came out and were so thankful to have something to enjoy safely with their families.”
Rebecca Erbelding, a historian, archivist, and curator at the United States Holocaust Rebecca Memorial Erbelding Museum, will be delivering the 31st David W. Belin Lecture in American Jewish Affairs virtually on March 16. Her lecture will explore Raoul Wallenberg’s work on behalf of the War Refugee Board in Budapest, Hungary, as revealed by U.S. government records. Wallenberg, one of the most famous Holocaust-era rescuers, was only 32 years old when he was arrested by the Soviets and disappeared in January 1945, 10 years after graduating from the University of Michigan. “My goal is to restore the context of Budapest, the context of Washington, the relationships between all these events and people, and to explain how the chaos of the Holocaust and the war limited the possibility of carrying out any preconceived plan for his rescue work,” explained
Raoul Wallenberg as a U-M freshman
Erbelding. Her book, Rescue Board: The Untold Story of America’s Efforts to Save the Jews of Europe, won the 2018 National Jewish Book Award in the category of Writing Based on Archival Material. She stresses that the most important message from the book is the impact public and private pressure can have on the United States government. For information or to register, visit myumi.ch/belin-lecture.
Friends of the IDF Create ‘FIDF Live’ Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is introducing “FIDF Live,” a philanthropic initiative that aims to take audience engagement to a new level in the face of ongoing limitations posed by the pandemic. FIDF Live will provide an alternative to in-person experiences and bring awareness of FIDF’s cause and activities to a broader audience. As long as its supporters are unable to physically gather at FIDF’s community events and galas, travel to Israel on
FIDF’s missions, visit soldiers on Israel Defense Forces (IDF) bases or meet them in the United States, FIDF seeks to bring Israel to its audience and offer direct access through this new platform. The FIDF Live show, hosted by American standup comedian and author Joel Chasnoff, will air 30-minute episodes on FIDF’s website every other week at 8:30 p.m. The biweekly series debuted Feb. 17. To watch FIDF Live, visit fidf.org/fidflive. MARCH 4 • 2021
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF KKC
FACES&PLACES
Feeling the Warmth Despite the Cold
The only thing better than receiving gifts at the Drive-By was when 7-year-old Ember Miller of St. Clair Shores had the chance to see Sensei Michael, one of KKC’s martial arts therapists, live versus on Zoom.
Lena Kaczur and her younger sister, Stana, came to the event with their parents, Amanda and William, from Canton to receive gifts and see friends.
Volunteer Mariah Shaver, 16, from Highland, Mich., helps distribute gifts to the kids.
Huntington Woods residents Lisa Bronstein and son, Evan, a seventh-grader at Hillel Day School, volunteering to distribute gifts at the KKC Drive-By. Evan has chosen KKC as his mitzvah project for his bar mitzvah later this year.
Mother-daughter volunteers, Becky and Mackenzie W., of Rochester, working one of several gift stations at the KKC event.
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Kids Kicking Cancer welcomes kids to Valentine’s Day Drive-By.
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BRYAN GOTTLIEB CONTRIBUTING WRITER
right sunshine helped mitigate the winter chill for volunteers and staffers of Kids Kicking Cancer, who braved temperatures in the low-20s on Feb. 14, during the nonprofit’s Valentine’s Day Drive-By event for pediatric oncology patients. Founded more than 20 years ago by Rabbi Elimelech Goldberg, the organization serves the needs of children battling cancer through its Martial Arts Therapy programming. According to KKC officials, nearly 160 children and their parents attended the drive-by. “The kids and families each received brand new toys, games, books and more,” said Cindy Cohen, director of global program-
ming for KKC. “We were also able to give away socks, thanks to Bombas, masks provided by Love Your Melon, winter hats, puffy coats, heart-shaped cookies and s’mores kits.” The program, made possible in cooperation with Impact100 Oakland County, concluded later that day with a collective Zoom call when families gathered to play games and make s’mores. “I liked getting to give the kids a bunch of toys and books,” said 12-yearold Evan Bronstein of Huntington Woods, who volunteered at the drive-by with his mother, Lisa. “I think KKC is really nice and they do great things for kids with cancer.”
Rehan Taria, Paige Girdley and Brittney Silverman, all medical students at William Beaumont School of Medicine at Oakland University, volunteering at the KKC Valentine’s Day Drive-By event.
Children at JCC Celebrate Tu b’Shevat with Family Trees DANNY SCHWARTZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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PHOTOS COURTESY JCC SARAH & IRVING PITT CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
tudents of JCC’s Sarah & Irving Pitt Child Development Center created family trees in honor of Tu b’Shevat, which staff have plastered along the hallways of the center. Staff sent home all the basic materials the families would need to create the trees and asked them to sit with their children and talk about what trees provide and what they enjoy doing outside in nature. The families created the trees together and the students brought them to school. Shannon Hall, director of the Center, did a short “walk in the trees” during a Facebook Live stream on Jan. 28 for all the children and their families to see the trees in the building. Parents are
not currently allowed inside the building due to COVID restrictions. “Usually, families take a really long time picking up their children because they’re looking at all the wonderful family trees, but this year with them not being able to come into our building, we felt like this was such a great way for the children to ‘see’ their families inside of our building,” Hall said. “It’s been really a different year due to the pandemic and this has brought so much happiness to them. “A lot of our families were very appreciative because it’s been a long time since they’ve been inside our hallways,” Hall added. “This has just been a really fun way to celebrate Tu b’Shevat.”
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1. Zelda, age 2, and Yoela, age 23 months, Kimmel. 2. Gabrielle Blechman, age 4. 3. Kaylee Budai, age 1.5. 4. Terran Merker shows off his family tree. 5. Jordyn Monson, age 4. 6. Charlotte Bogorad, age 3.
Puzzled by the Cold Weather?
Hadassah offers 500-piece jigsaw for indoor fun. DANNY SCHWARTZ STAFF WRITER
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till agonizingly bored from the isolation of the pandemic? Running out of things to watch on Netflix? Hadassah Greater Detroit may have the cure. Hadassah is having a jigsaw puzzle fundraising sale, which ends at noon on March 31. The puzzle has 500 pieces, measuring 13 x 19 inches. The picture on the puzzle is from one of the covers of Hadassah Magazine, showing the founding women of Hadassah with women in the Israeli Army. Puzzles are $36 each. Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, represents approximately 4,000 Greater Detroit area women. Mandy Garver, a co-vice presi-
dent of philanthropy, said the fundraiser money is going to Hadassah Medical Organization’s general fund. Puzzles can be purchased online at hadassahmidwest. networkforgood.com/ events/25667-greater-detroit-puzzle-sale and are available for pickup or delivery. Contact Garver at mandy.garver@gmail. com to arrange a time to pick it up at her house or she’ll drop it off. Shipping is available for an additional $10 per puzzle. “It gives you something to do together with your family,” Garver said. “It’s a nice indoor thing when you’re trying to figure out what you can do while the snow is still on the ground here, that’s indoors and isn’t putting you at risk.” MARCH 4 • 2021
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BUSINESS
Preparing for the ‘Big Day’
Boutique gym studio goes online, adds new program for brides-to-be.
ASHLEY ZLATOPOLSKY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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ith the COVID-19 pandemic presenting a need for many businesses to pivot their operations to survive, one industry rethinking its services is the world of fitness. For Jewish-owned boutique gym studio Fuse45, which has physical locations in Royal Oak and West Bloomfield, this meant taking their services online. Now completely digital, the gym studio offers Fuse Live, an online workout program available via a mobile app. Rather than holding classes onsite, owners and mother-and-daughter duo Karen Kelman and Samantha Kelman-Friedman polled their clients to gauge how they felt about safety in the pandemic. The results spoke for themselves: There was an interest in attending virtual classes and an opportunity to make it happen. Working with a software development company, the Kelmans rolled out the Fuse Live app last year, which includes their trademarked workout in a version that can be completed at home. This has allowed
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Fuse45 to branch out from beyond the Metro Detroit area, now seeing people sign up for their classes from as far away as Israel. Their latest digital addition to their business is Fuse Bride, a six-week program for brides-to-be. Launched in early February, the idea was born to help new brides feel confident for their big day. The Kelman mom and daughter have partnered with New York-based wedding expert Sara Greenberg of Forever Young Events to develop a multi-faceted approach that includes support, tracking and coaching, and of course, Fuse45’s trademarked workouts. WELLNESS STRATEGY “She has the bridal expertise, and we have the fitness expertise,” Karen Kelman says of the partnership with Greenberg. Together, they collaborated for many months to finalize how the program would look. Brides who sign up for Fuse Bride begin by receiving individual consultations with both the
COURTESY OF SAMANTHA KELMAN
Samantha KelmanFriedman at her wedding with her mother, Karen Kelman.
Kelmans and Greenberg. They then work together to develop a custom health and wellness strategy for the bride to practice during the six-week program. The goal is for brides to feel confident from the inside. “We don’t believe in fad diets or anything like that,” Karen Kelman, 57, explains. “We believe in making little changes in your world that create much larger changes, like drinking more water and getting more sleep.” She calls it “strategies to live your life,” tools that brides can use both during and after the program to lead healthy lifestyles. Each week, brides check in with Fuse45 for accountability. They receive both a wedding planning and health planning checklist that they can use to meet their goals. For an additional layer of accountability, Fuse Bride also includes a complimentary plusone so brides can invite a guest to the program for free. This can be the groom, the bride’s mother or even the maid of honor. In total, the six-week program costs $445. For a time when wedding planning is more challenging than ever, with many brides having to reschedule or postpone their weddings (and some multiple times), the Kelmans hope their program can offer encouragement for brides-to-be and make the process a little less stressful. “It’s aggravating, and it’s taking this very special time in their lives and making it challenging,” Karen Kelman says of brides planning a wedding during the pandemic, “We’re trying to help them smooth that out and create a different path that they can hopefully do [with their plus-one].” While the program is brand new, Kelman says it’s gaining traction and they’ve received a lot of interest both in- and outof-state. “I think it’s a great transition into our business,” she explains. “We’re really about starting from the inside-out and community. It’s about having camaraderie.” Now with Fuse Bride, Kelman believes the business, which often partners with different local Jewish organizations like Friendship Circle, can reach a new group of people who can then become a part of the larger Fuse45 community. “I think it’s going to be extremely powerful,” she says. “This is something that’s missing in this industry. I’m excited to see how this takes off.”
White-Collar Warrior From Jimmy Hoffa to Kwame Kilpatrick, attorney has seen it all. ASHLEY ZLATOPOLSKY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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fter a long and storied career as a white-collar criminal defense lawyer working with some of the most important cases in the last few decades, attorney Richard Zuckerman is back in town. Zuckerman, whose most recent assignment was serving three years as acting attorney general of the Tax Division of the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., is taking some time to unwind in Metro Detroit as he waits for his next big opportunity. It’s a strategy that has worked for the Yonkers, N.Y., native since the mid-1960s, when he graduated from the University of Michigan and spent four years in the U.S. Navy. Time and time again, interesting opportunities came knocking at Zuckerman’s door without him really looking for them. His career was a sort of a domino effect where one thing led to another, putting him in the right place at the right time. The journey began after his time with the Navy ended. Zuckerman attended Southwestern University School
of Law in Los Angeles where he took a mix of business and criminal law courses. He wanted to find a way to combine the two. “I didn’t want to pick one area over another,” Zuckerman said. “I took a lot of tax courses, and I liked tax.” One day, an opportunity to connect his two passions arrived. An employment placement signup sheet at his law school
uty chief of the organized crime section of the Criminal Division. “I decided that I could marry criminal law and corporate law by doing organized crime prosecutions,” Zuckerman said. “Not the violent stuff, per se, but the economic aspects.” He aced his interview and received a job with the DOJ, moving to D.C. for training. From there, a career in white
“I’M STILL INTERESTED IN PRACTICING IF THE RIGHT THING CAME ALONG.” — RICHARD ZUCKERMAN
showed that the Department of Justice was hiring. “It’s a one in a million chance to get hired by the Department of Justice at a law school,” he recalled. He decided to take a practice interview for it. At least, he thought it was a practice interview. Zuckerman sat down with a member of the DOJ. He expressed an interest in white-collar criminal law, and it just so happened that the person he interviewed with was a dep-
collar crime with a subspeciality of tax was born. HIGH-PROFILE CASES It was a fluke, he said, that eventually brought him to Detroit. In the mid-1970s, a department head mentioned that the Detroit Strike Force office had an opening. Having met his wife at the University of Michigan, Zuckerman asked to be assigned to Detroit. By January 1975, he was working in the Motor City.
During his time in Detroit, Zuckerman worked on some of the highest-profile cases in the city, including the 1975 disappearance of Teamsters boss Jimmy Hoffa and the income tax evasion of Detroit mafia captain Anthony Giacalone, among others. Zuckerman then spent 30 years as part of the Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn law firm, now Honigman LLC, in Detroit, mostly as head of its white-collar crime and government investigations practice group. He also represented the Detroit Free Press in the text messaging scandal involving former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, another high-profile case to add to his roster. In December 2017, Zuckerman left Honigman to accept his most recent position with the Tax Division of the DOJ in the Trump administration. He was part of the senior leadership of the department, directing some 350 lawyers and 150 support staff to carry out enforcement of the nation’s tax laws. His appointment ended on Jan. 20 with the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Now, Zuckerman has returned to his longtime home of Michigan with no plan other than to see what might happen next. As an integral part of the local Jewish community, Zuckerman was one of the founding members of Temple Shir Shalom, also serving on its board. He served on the board for the Detroit chapter of the American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science as well. “I’m still interested in practicing if the right thing came along,” Zuckerman says. “But I’m not in a great hurry to go back. I’ve decided to take it easy for a while and see what comes along.” MARCH 4 • 2021
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MAZEL TOV! JUNE 16, 2020 Adam and Amanda (Gorman) Berman of Huntington Woods, welcomed their beautiful son, Miles Seth (Tzvi Shalom). Welcoming Miles home was excited big sister Ellie and thrilled grandparents Alex and Vicki Berman of West Bloomfield, Judy and Bruce Gorman of Livonia, and overjoyed great-grandma Rena Berman of West Bloomfield. Miles is named in loving memory of his paternal grandfather, Morris Jerris; maternal grandfather, Saul Gross; and maternal great-grandfather, Herman Boraks.
Alexis Jane Berman, daughter of Jennifer and Tom Berman, will lead the congregation as she becomes a bat mitzvah at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Saturday, March 6, 2021. She will be joined in celebration by her sister Olivia, proud grandparents Kim and Ronald Berman, Kathleen and Jay Dreifus, Linda and Fred Walny, and greatgrandmother Bernice Berman. Alexis attends Detroit Country Day in Beverly Hills. As one of her mitzvah projects, she made and sold beaded bracelets and donated the entire $1,000 raised to the March of Dimes. This project was exceptionally meaningful to her as Alexis was a preemie. Landon Henry Halprin will lead the congregation in prayer as he becomes a bar mitzvah on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Temple Israel in West
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Bloomfield. He will be joined in celebration by his proud parents, Audra and Dan Halprin, and sister Brooke. Landon is the loving grandchild of Shirley and the late Stanley Halprin, and Cynthia and the late Calvin Moss. He is a student at Berkshire Middle School in Beverly Hills. As part of his mitzvah project, Landon hopes to teach children with disabilities the game of soccer once the pandemic restrictions end. Zera Elinor Levine (Zera Chava), daughter of Jennifer and Matthew Levine, will be called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Congregation B’nai Moshe in West Bloomfield. She will be joined in celebration by her sister Miriam and her proud grandparents Pat and Barry Levine of West Bloomfield, Sara and Bob Zielesch of Manistee, and Florence Kline of Clawson. Zera is a student at Norup International School in Oak Park. As one part
of her mitzvah project, she is collecting camping equipment for Tamarack’s Gear Share program. Sydney Hope Michaelson will chant from the Torah on the occasion of her bat mitzvah at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Saturday, March 6, 2021. She will be joined in celebration by her proud parents, Melissa Michaelson and Jeremy Michaelson, and brother Merrick. She is the loving grandchild of Margie Mellen, the late Robert Mellen, and Jackie and Ronald Michaelson. Sydney is a student at Hillel Day School of Metropolitan Detroit in Farmington Hills. As part of her mitzvah project, she raised money for the Bob Mellen Travel Fund for Camp Mak-A-Dream in Montana, to help send to camp youngsters who have and who have had cancer Matthew Jack Sherman, son of Keith and Lesley Sherman, will be called to the Torah as a bar mitzvah, Friday, March 5, 2021, at Temple Israel in
West Bloomfield. He will be joined in celebration by his sister Samantha. Matthew is the loving grandchild of Elaine and Carl Cohen of Windsor, Ontario, and Ruth and Alan Sherman of Johannesburg, South Africa. He attends West Hills Middle School in Bloomfield Hills. For his most meaningful mitzvah project, Matthew raised funds for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Tyler Isaac Witten will lead the congregation in prayer as he becomes a bar mitzvah at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Saturday, March 6, 2021. He will be joined in celebration by his proud parents, Jaimee and David Witten, and his brother Alex. Tyler is the loving grandchild of Joan and Jerry Frohlich, Floyd Witten and the late Irith Witten. He is a student at Millennium Middle School in South Lyon. For his most meaningful mitzvah project, Tyler delivered food for Yad Ezra in Berkley to help with food insecurity in our community.
HOW TO SUBMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS Mazel Tov! announcements are welcomed for members of the Jewish community. Anniversaries, engagements and weddings with a photo (preferably color) can appear at a cost of $18 each. Births are $10. There is no charge for bar/bat mitzvahs or for special birthdays starting at the 90th. For information, contact Editorial Assistant Sy Manello at smanello@thejewishnews.com or (248) 351-5147 for information or for a mailed or emailed copy of guidelines.
SPIRIT
TORAH PORTION
Freedman 100th
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ose Fink Freedman of West Bloomfield celebrated 100 years on Feb. 18, 2021. Her loving and caring children, Michael and Nanci Freedman, and Wendy Freedman, all in Oakland County, helped celebrate by Zoom with family and friends all over the country. Besides Rose’s children, her loving sister, Sylvia Smaller; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and Brenda Saperstein wish Rose continued good health so they can all enjoy her wonderful disposition as she begins to celebrate her second century.
Kohler-Glogower
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harles and Darlene Glogower and Steven and Barbara Kohler of West Bloomfield are pleased to announce the engagement of their children, Rachel Natalia and Ian Emery. Rachel and Ian met at Hillel while in college, when both enrolled in a class to learn more about Israel. Rachel is a graduate of Oakland University and earned her master’s degree in social work at Wayne State University. She is employed as an outpatient therapist at Sollars and Associates Counseling and Psychology Services in West Bloomfield. Ian is a graduate of the University of MichiganDearborn and earned an M.B.A. at Wayne State University. He is employed as a banker at PNC Bank in West Bloomfield. Ian and Rachel are looking forward to their May 2022 wedding at Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills.
Forgiveness ... and Punishment
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n the Torah this week, experiment that looks at the we find one of our most different ways of thinking iconic stories. Moses is about God. Some faiths schmoozing with God on emphasize Divine forgiveMount Sinai, and the people ness, while others focus on are waiting below. punishment. Which works They’re waiting … better? they’re waiting … Among believers, the and they’re waiting difference is signifisome more … and cant. Those who believe they start to freak in a punishing God, out a little bit. The cheat and steal less Rabbi people then build a than those who believe Jennifer Lader golden calf to worin a forgiving God. ship in the desert, People who believe in Parshat Ki using the riches that Tisa: Exodus a punitive God, punish they plundered from 30:11-34:35; people less than those Ezekiel Egypt as they fled. who believe in a forgiv36:16-38. God is not thrilled ing God. (Shabbat about the whole At the very moment Parah) thing. God tells God tells Moses that Moses, “Now … leave the people are forgivMe alone, and my anger will en, Moses is reminded that be kindled against them so still the guilty will be punthat I will annihilate them.” ished. Because a world with“Wait,” Moses pleads out justice would be one before God. “Don’t forget without human forgiveness. about all the promises You The Torah allows us to play made in the past … to good cop while God plays Abraham, Isaac and Israel, bad cop and makes us feel your servants … if you wipe good about being compasout these people, you’re not sionate, understanding and a very good promise keeper, merciful to each other. are You?” Seeing God as just helps “Well, fine,” God says. us treat other human beings “You deal with them.” with kindness and love. Moses does, securing forSo, in these perilous giveness for the Israelites. times, let’s keep the faith; And yet, when he returns smile a little more; open to Mount Sinai, returns to our hearts and our minds, God’s presence, God says showing forgiveness to the to him: “I will have mercy people around us. on whom I will have mercy, Let’s leave the judgement and I will have compassion to the Judge. on whom I will have compassion.” God does not leave Rabbi Jennifer Lader is a rabbi at the guilty unpunished. Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. There is a fascinating MARCH 4 • 2021
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NOSH
DINING AROUND THE D
Pesach Dinner — Ready to Go ESTHER ALLWEISS INGBER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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ring on the fragrant matzah ball soup and sweet carrot tzimmes! Passover begins the night of Saturday, March 27, bringing with it the anticipation of enjoying traditional Jewish specialties. These five catering companies, in alphabetical order, promise to add delicious, homemade flavor to your observance and festive seder meal. BLOOM’S KOSHER CARRYOUT AND CATERING of Southfield bloomscatering@gmail.com (248) 914-1878 bloomskoshercarryout.com Order deadline: Tuesday, March 16, to Cookie Chimoff by phone, text, email and Facebook page Distribution: Primarily by delivery in Metro Detroit, on day and afternoon of Thursday, March 25, and afternoon of Friday, March 26 Owner: Cookie Chimoff • We have really good food in the tradition of Shirlee Bloom and her mother, Lil Bloom, before her. • We add new items but mostly stick with what we know people will like — everyone goes for our oldies but goodies. • Our home delivery service offers convenience.
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CHEF CARI KOSHER CATERING at Congregation B’nai Moshe (CBM) 6800 Drake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 770-6521 Chefcari.com Order deadline: Monday, March 15, by phone or online Distribution: Pickup is 5-8 p.m. Thursday, March 25, at CBM; or 10 a.m.noon Friday, March 26, at Wok In Cari Out, Chinese restaurant located in New Orleans Mall, 15600 W. 10 Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48075 Owner: Cari Herskovitz • We are offering a half turkey in addition to our whole turkey this year for smaller gatherings.
• Our homemade gefilte fish, veggie chopped liver and slow-cooked brisket are menu highlights. We only cook traditional food for Passover and so people really are waiting for it — plus our trifles, because they are so light and flavorful. • We are offering a fruit crisp this year and a slow-cooked rack of ribs. • We never freeze or prepare anything in advance. We are gluten-free. We don’t cook with any matzah meal/products, with the exception of matzah balls, gefilte fish and matzah-stuffed chicken (prepared on separate equipment). DISH KOSHER CUISINE at Congregation Beth Ahm (CBAHM) 5075 W. Maple Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (248) 539-8825 dishkoshercuisine.com Order deadline: 4 p.m. Friday, March 19, to Jenny@socialeventsonline.com Distribution: Pickup is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, March 26, at CBAHM Owner: Paul Wertz • We take pride in the taste, freshness and presentation of our cuisine.
HEIRLOOM CATERING & EVENTS at Temple Israel 5725 Drake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 (248) 661-5700 temple-israel.org/event/sedertogo Ordering deadline: Noon Tuesday,
R1-DJN-PenPistol-Ad.ai
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2/15/21
1:05 PM
With Pen and Pistol Heroines of the Holocaust
Virtual Program
7 pm Monday, March 15 Learn how thousands of women fought with dignity and defiance to save themselves and others. Featuring Professor Lori Weintrob of Wagner College. March 16, to Stephanie at stephanie@temple-israel. org. Distribution: Contactless curbside pickup at TI’s sanctuary portico entrance, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, March 26, with delivery available. Chef: Carole Wendling • We offer (non-kosher) traditional foods and special items — including gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options — all to enjoy in the comfort of your home. • Seder-to-Go, with all the Passover items required, is available for your first and/or second seder. • Our meals are packed in foil with easy reheating and cooking directions included. QUALITY KOSHER CATERING at Congregation Shaarey Zedek (CSZ) 27375 Bell Road Southfield, MI 48322 (248) 352-7758 QualityKosher.com Ordering deadline: Monday, March 15, by phone to Lisa or online Distribution: Free deliveries in Metro Detroit, in partnership with Star Trax Events, on Thursday, March 24 Owner: Daniel Kohn • Our food is made from scratch using recipes that have been refined and perfected over our 50-plus years in business. • Our Complete Seder Package for two makes it easy to order everything needed for a beautiful seder. • We’ve adjusted our portion size and menu offerings to easily order items for having a small seder. • We offer delivery service so people can stay home for their safety and convenience.
More information at www.holocaustcenter.org/upcoming HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL CENTER ZEKELMAN FAMILY CAMPUS 248.553.2400
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ARTS&LIFE MUSIC
Gavri Yares
United in Song Musician-in-residence uplifts Downtown Synagogue. SUZANNE CHESSLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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abbi Ariana Silverman has been impressed watching her two children, ages 4 and 6, as they participate in remote Tot Shabbat services offered this year by the congregation she leads. The rabbi enjoys the way they have learned and enthusiastically sing along with Gavri Yares — new musician-in-residence for the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue — and she is uplifted when hearing her son and daughter repeat the songs on their own during the week. Through the current Zoom programming, Silverman gladly watches responsive reac-
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sing and play guitar, drums, tions from others, youths and bass and oud. As the pandemic adults, taking part in novel required virtual services, his musical initiatives. appearances became more reg“We have, as a synagogue, ular for Shabbat, Havdalah and been singing together, but holiday worship. Gavri brings an expertise that “The rabbi and I shape our we did not have, and that has services so they been very enrichserve the commuing,” Silverman nity,” said Yares, said. “Music DETAILS 36, who also holds brings another Instructions on way of being unitjoining a particular a full-time position as a music ed as our voices service on Zoom teacher for Huron are joining, and can be accessed Valley Schools. he has introduced the Friday after“Once COVID us to melodies noon before the is over, we’re lookwe didn’t know service by going ing at doing some before.” to downtownsynsinging circles, Last fall, Yares agogue.org/serworkshops and began appearing vices. other ways for twice a month to
people to come together.” A big motivation is preparing to celebrate the centennial year of the synagogue. “I plan on using my experiences to strengthen the Downtown Synagogue’s musical traditions while incorporating new melodies into prayer services for all ages and including local guest musicians,” said Yares, who was welcomed during Shabbat Shirah (song or poetry) in January. “Shabbat Shirah holds the Torah reading which contains the ‘Shirat Hayam’ or ‘Song of the Sea.’ Moses, Miriam and the children of Israel sang this song after successfully crossing the Sea of Reeds as they fled Egypt and slavery. That was our first Shabbat in Song, and we are planning monthly music-centric services.” Yares’ resume outlines a diverse background that includes similar work at synagogues in Washington, D.C.,
“I PLAN ON USING MY EXPERIENCES TO STRENGTHEN THE SYNAGOGUE’S MUSICAL TRADITIONS.” — GAVRI YARES.
and teaching positions at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Maryland. He also has performed in secular venues, touring North America, Europe and the Middle East while working with his brother, Ami. The Brothers Yares present Americana and Middle Eastern repertoire. Yares was a musician, prayer leader and teacher at Adas Israel Congregation and the historic Sixth & I Synagogue in D.C. As a lay leader, he was an active member of Ohev Sholom — The National Synagogue and DC Minyan. MUSICAL ROOTS “My musical interests were a product of the public schools I attended in New Jersey,” said Yares, whose main instrument is the bass. “When high school came about, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue professionally. “I had a lot of music teachers who also were professional musicians, and I was able to see that they could teach and perform. Because of that, I pursued a degree in music education at Rutgers University.” After graduation, Yares taught at a New Jersey public school and then took a hiatus in Israel, where he performed with ensembles
in addition to the one with his brother. The move to Michigan came in 2018 after his wife, Laura, accepted a religious studies professorship at Michigan State University. The couple are raising their two children — Nadav, 4, and Jonah, 1 — in Oak Park. “The hiring of Gavri will allow us to further the future of our thriving and growing institution, promoting the renaissance of Jewish Detroit,” said Arlene Frank, synagogue executive director. “Gavri’s deep commitment to our local Jewish community — paired with his musical and spiritual knowledge, experience and enthusiasm — will support the Downtown Synagogue’s growth as a hub of Jewish life in Detroit.” Silverman is pleased Yares applies his teaching skills, especially during Zoom services. “Gavri knows how to take kids off mute, and I watched children remind him when he omitted a regular part of a service,” the rabbi recalled. “He led them in what was omitted and taught them about encores.” As music becomes more integrated into Downtown Synagogue services, anticipated podcasts will make encores accessible to the community.
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ARTS&LIFE
fun, too,” she said. One of the books published in November, Chaim’s Juicy Mistake, originated with an idea from Burstyn’s friend Miriam Amzalak of Oak Park. The idea is to remind readers not only that everyone makes mistakes but to provide some guidance for caregivers on how to respond when kids screw up (take deep breaths, focus on solutions, pray and so on). She also published Out of Mind, which was originally serialized in The Circle, a magazine for Orthodox children. It’s about a girl in Detroit and a girl in Australia who share a “mind connection” despite having never met. “I’m from Australia and, of course, live here, so it’s kind of handy when I write about places I don’t need to do any major research for,” she said. Burstyn’s father, Nathan Greenwald, grew up in Oak Park, and she came to
Michigan in 1998 to stay with her grandparents, Lillian and Arthur Greenwald of Oak Park, and get to know her local family. “I ended up meeting and marrying my husband (Jaron), and have been here ever since,” she said. The Burstyns’ children range in age from 3 to 20. The eldest, Bentzi, joined the Israel Defense Forces in December. A second son, Yoni, 19, is studying at a yeshivah in Israel. Their three daughters, Raizel, Atara and Zahava, attend Yeshiva Beth Yehudah’s Bais Yaakov School for Girls in Oak Park, and her youngest son, Azriel, 3 is in a local playgroup. Burstyn has been homeschooling sons Avi, 15, and Binyomin, 12, since September 2019, “so we were 10 steps ahead of everyone else when schools shut in March,” she said. Burstyn says she considers The Surprise Carnival to be her “COVID book.” “I found a lot of comfort in writing The Surprise Carnival and focusing on something creative and fun. I worked on it for about three months in total, sometimes waking up at 4 a.m. to work on it until my kids woke up.” She said working on the book served as a distraction and gave her a sense of purpose during a “restless, anxiety-filled time.” Burstyn’s books are available from amazon.com and locally at Borenstein’s and Spitzer’s.
Moshe’s library. She realized that she could use only about half the books that had been moved from the congregation’s former home in Oak Park; the others were damaged beyond repair. Sherry Wasserman holds She also realthe children’s book she ized that the wrote about Shavuot. synagogue had no suitable children’s books about the springtime holiday of Shavuot. When she couldn’t find one she liked to purchase, she decided to write her own. Wasserman chose Ruthie Cisse to do the illustrations. Wasserman
had met Cisse, a New York artist, at a post-Shabbat kiddush at B’nai Moshe. Cisse’s grandmother, Adelyn Greenberg, is a congregation member. Wasserman’s heroine, Sarah, shows her love for the holiday — which celebrates the giving of the Torah to the Children of Israel — along with her happiness in celebrating it and her realization that she needs to join the ideas of personal freedom and responsible communal behavior in her own life. “Sarah is not just a little girl,” Wasserman said. “For me she represents every girl, every child, every person, male and female, since everyone received the gift of Torah at Mount Sinai. On Shavuot, we are all standing at Mount Sinai.” I Am Standing at Mount Sinai is available at amazon.com.
BOOKS
Writing for Kids Prolific author’s four new books make kids laugh — and think. BARBARA LEWIS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
R
Retired Librarian Publishes Kids’ Book About Shavuot BARBARA LEWIS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sherry Wasserman didn’t retire from librarianship when she left her position as head of adult services at the Oak Park Public Library in 1997 after 29 years. She simply moved to a volunteer position reorganizing the library at Congregation B’nai Moshe in West Bloomfield, where she has been a longtime member. Wasserman, 75, of Huntington Woods, said she first thought about doing such a book about 20 years ago while preparing to reopen B’nai
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BARBARA LEWIS
ochel Burstyn is at it again. The Southfield mother-of-eight, occasional Jewish News humor columnist and author of children’s books published two new picture books last fall and two more in late February. Almost all of her books have focused on Orthodox characters, reflecting Burstyn’s own Rochel Burstyn family and communal life. One new offering, a picture book called Benny the Bus Gets the Job Done (Israel Book Shop publications) is “what you get if you mix The Little Engine That Could with Thomas the Tank Engine and throw in a yarmulke,” she said. The other, The Surprise Carnival and Other Stories (Judaica Press), includes mostly lighthearted stories designed to make kids laugh out loud — “or at least to groan and think, ‘How corny!’ because those reactions are
A Life Story with Politics New WSU Press book is a look back at Holocaust historian Lucy Dawidowicz.
H
istorian Nancy Sinkoff read From That Place and Time: A Memoir, 1938-1947 by Lucy S. Dawidowicz and decided there was much more to tell about this 20th-century author, a Jewish and political public intellectual. Nancy Approval of Sinkoff Sinkoff ’s subsequent manuscript came from the Wayne State University Press, which last year published From Left to Right, Lucy S. Dawidowicz, the New York Intellectuals, and the Politics of Jewish History. The book was named a Natan Notable Book and received a National Jewish Book Award through the Jewish Book Council. “The Dawidowicz memoir basically covers her young adulthood,” explained Sinkoff, professor of Jewish studies and history at Rutgers University in New Jersey. “She lived until 1990, but it seems nobody knew that much about her except people interested in the Holocaust. “Her major achievement was bringing the culture and civilization of the Eastern European Jewish [population] and its merciless destruction to the English-reading public.” While Sinkoff delves into the Dawidowicz book The War Against the Jews 1933-1945, written in 1975 to tell about
the Jewish response in keeping ethnic communal life together in the context of World War II, politics becomes the main focus of the professor’s recent text. “Dawidowicz was a youthful communist, then patriotic FDR Democrat and ended her life as an independent neo-conservative urging the American Jewish community to vote for Ronald Reagan,” said Sinkoff, who did some of her research and writing during a semester as a fellow at the Frankel Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Michigan. Dawidowicz, whose values had her working with the American Jewish Committee and helping displaced persons, is described as a public speaker who expressed a belief that the greatest threat to Jews in her later years was the antisemitism she saw coming out of the Soviet Union and radical anti-Zionism. “My academic interests have been connected to Eastern European Jewish life,” said Sinkoff, who also has written Out of the Shtetl: Making Jews Modern in the Polish Borderlands. “Lucy S. Dawidowicz was witness to it. “Wayne State gave me freedom to make the book I wanted. I’ve included an appendix of 31 previously unpublished letters between Dawidowicz and various intellectuals, including Albert Einstein and novelist Allen Hoffman.”
PHOTO CREDIT JERRY ZOLYNSKY
SUZANNE CHESSLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
SEEKING TERRIFIC TEENS! The JN and the Jewish Community Center’s JFamily will once again shine the public spotlight on teens in our community with Rising Stars: Teens Making a Difference. 18 remarkable Jewish teens in the Metro Detroit area will be selected and featured in the April 29, 2021, issue of the Jewish News and recognized on the JN and JCC’s JFamily social media pages. Nominees must live in Michigan, identify as Jewish and be students in grades 9-12; they can be selfnominated or may be nominated by others today through March 17. Nominees should be recognized for impact, contribution and/or achievement in areas including (but not limited) to:
• Tikkun olam, volunteerism, social action, advocacy, philanthropy • Academics/education • Athletics • Music & arts • Business & entrepreneurship • Overcoming obstacles and challenges • Jewish growth and learning • Leadership To nominate yourself or a teen you know, go to thejewishnews.com and click on the Rising Stars button or to jfamily.jccdet.org/risingstars. The deadline is March 17.
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ARTS&LIFE CELEBRITY JEWS
NATE BLOOM COLUMNIST
Arsenio Hall and Eddie Murphy
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HOLIDAY’S WOES, SMALLVILLE REDUX, COMING 2 AMERICA The original Hulu film, the U.S. v. Billie Holiday, began streaming on Feb. 26. Holiday (19151959), an African American jazz singer, is most famous for singing “Strange Fruit,” an anti-lynching song written (1937) by Abel Meeropol. The FBI and others didn’t like her civil rights activism, and they used the excuse of her drug addiction to hound her for decades. The film heavily focuses on her long relationship (briefly sexual) with famous (Southern white) actress Tallulah Bankhead, played by Natasha Lyonne, 41. Superman & Lois, a new CW series, premiered on Feb. 23 and moved to its regular
time slot (9 p.m.) on March 2 (Catch-up on episodes via on-demand or CW website/ app). This iteration of the Man of Steel saga finds Clark Kent (Superman) and Lois Lane married with two sons and looking to live again in Smallville, Clark’s boyhood home. Emmanuelle Chriqui, 45 (Sloan on Entourage) has a recurring role as Lana Lang, an old friend of Clark who still lives in Smallville. Also appearing in a recurring role is Stacey Farber, 33. She plays Leslie Larr, a business honcho. Both actresses are
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Canadian. Chriqui’s parents were Sephardi Moroccan Jews who settled in Montreal. Farber grew up in Toronto and, like many Canadians, got her start with a big role on the popular Canadian series DeGrassi High: The Next Generation. Next year, she will also have a recurring role on Virgin River, a hit Netflix drama series. Coming 2 America, the much-anticipated sequel to the monster 1988 film hit, begins streaming on Amazon Prime March 5. The sequel has Eddie Murphy again playing Akem, the heir to
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the throne of Zamunda, an African country. Akem learns he has an “unknown” son in America as his father, the King (James Earl Jones), lays dying. The King urges Akem to go to New York City and bring this son (and heir) back to Zamunda. After his father’s death, King Akem, with his aide, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), travel to New York and are shocked to learn that Akem’s son is a savvy street hustler. The original film and the sequel were written by Murray, David Sheffield and Barry Blaustein, 65. The latter two were SNL staff writers while Murphy was starring on the show (1980-83). They also helped write The Nutty Professor (1996), a hit remake of a Jerry Lewis movie that also starred Murphy. Blaustein also directed Peep World (2010), a comedic film about a very dysfunctional Jewish family.
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PEOPLE | PLACES | EVENTS
GOVERNMENT INSIGHT MARCH 4 (8:15 AM), 12 (NOON) & 18 (8:15 AM). JCRC/AJC highlights legislators from different levels of government on Zoom to discuss their 2021 priorities. Each session is 45-minutes long, open to the community and includes a Q&A period. Free. This week will feature Rep. Andy Levin and Rep. Elissa Slotkin. Info: Lauren Garfield-Herrin, 248-6422641 or jcrcajc.org/events. TOUR ISRAEL NOON-1PM, MARCH 4 Temple Shir Shalom is offering a live, virtual tour “The Intifadas” with Rabbi Daniel Schwartz and Israeli tour guide Beni Levin. Learn about the intifidas while seeing Israel from different locations and gaining a deeper understanding of the geopolitical situation. There is a charge. To register: shirshalom.org/ event/israel-5.html or call 248-737-8700. ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL MARCH 4 & 14 The Sterling Institute for Jewish Studies and Modern Israel will sponsor. Films will be available for several days before the scheduled live virtual discussions. See list of films at jsp.msu.edu/ israeli-film-festival. ARTS LEADERS TALK 3 PM, MARCH 7 Join two of Detroit’s arts leaders, MacArthur Fellows Aaron Dworkin (founder of Sphinx) and Yuval Sharon (artistic director of
Michigan Opera Theatre) along with moderator Jaemi Loeb (senior director of Cultural Arts) for a fascinating discussion about how the innovative, entrepreneurial spirit of the region’s arts scene is already shaping the postCOVID landscape. On the JCC Cultural Arts YouTube Channel. Info: jbloeb@ jccdet.org.
HISTORY LECTURE 7-8 PM, MARCH 10 SIMONS AWARD 3 PM, MARCH 7 The Jewish Historical Society of Michigan will honor Geiga Weiss, head librarian and archivist of the Holocaust Memorial Center. Following the award, she will share cherished artifacts from the HMC’s archives, including Sonny Eliot’s football. Free, but donations are encouraged. Register at info@ michjewishhistiory.org. to receive the Zoom link to the event, which will be emailed the day before,
Dennis Bernard
INNOVATOR INTERVIEWED 7 PM, MARCH 10 The Jewish Historical Society will facilitate a Zoom conference platform interview with Dennis Bernard, president of the United Jewish Foundation. Gabriel Schuchman and Jared Rothberger will conduct this interview of the founder of the largest commercial banking firm in Michigan. Cost: $10 for JHSM members; $18 for non-members. Register by 9 pm March 9; a link will be sent: info@michiganjewishhistory.org.
JFS BOOK CLUB NOON, MARCH 10 Jewish Family Service will present a book discussion facilitated by Lynn Breuer. The book: Kimberly Williams-Paisley’s Where the Light Gets In: Losing My Mother Only to Find Her Again. $81 suggested donation. Register at jfsspotlightevent.org. Info: 248-592-2339. HISTORY LECTURE 7-8 PM, MARCH 10 The U-M Frankel Center for Judaic Studies will present the Louis and Helen Padnos Lecture: “The Historical Jesus in His Jewish Context.” Speakers: Amy-Jill Levine (Vanderbilt
University), Gabriele Boccaccini (University of Michigan) and Jeremiah Cataldo (Grand Valley State University). This conversation will be about the latest research on the historical Jesus and explore the implication for contemporary Judaic Studies. Registration required: umich.zoom.us/webinar/ register/5016080627119/ WN_srFRJezkTRahuYLDIv0 Pow. Info: JudaicStudies@ umich.edu. MUSEUM TOUR 11 AM, MARCH 10 Tikvah Hadassah will host a live museum tour from Israel in the Negev desert: “Ben-Gurion’s Desert Home.” This virtual tour is a unique opportunity for an intimate visit in the home of David Ben-Gurion, the first prime minister of Israel. Register by March 8. There is a $18 event fee. Register online at hadassahmidwest.org/ TikvahBen-Gurion or for questions, contact tikvah@ hadassahmw.org. Compiled by Sy Manello/Editorial Assistant. Send items at least 14 days in advance to calendar@thejewishnews.com.
MARCH 4 • 2021
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DANA LAUREN BERMAN, 55, of Birmingham, died Feb. 22, 2021. She is survived by her sons, Michael Hords, Kyle Hords and Andrew Hords; many other loving family members and friends. Interment took place at Beth El Memorial Park Cemetery in Livonia. Contributions may be made to the Michigan Humane Society or the American Cancer Society. Arrangement by Dorfman Chapel. DR. MARK BIEDERMAN (Melech Feivel), 59, died suddenly on Feb. 16, 2021, at his home in Laguna Beach, Calif. He was a husband, father, brother, friend and highly respected equine surgeon. Mark was a pioneer in the use of bone marrow transplants to heal leg fractures in horses, a breeder of race horses, owner of race horses, popular author, respected historian on the Holocaust and WWII, sought-after speaker, a regular part of the minyan, an avid hockey player and a talented marksman. As a child, he studied French so that he could communicate with French Canadians in their native tongue in what he anticipated would be his future NHL career. Mark never made it to the NHL, but he played goalie until the age of 59. Mark was a graduate of SouthfieldLathrup High School, Michigan State University (undergrad) and Michigan State College of Veterinary Medicine. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Dr. Biederman is survived by his wife, Randi; daughter, Larissa; brother, Eddie; nephew, Harrison; niece, Carson; his beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Shmueli. He was the son of the late Harry (Tzvi Hersch) and Sally Biederman, both Polish Holocaust survivors. Interment was at Harbor Lawn Cemetery, Costa Mesa, Calif. Rabbi Mendy Pachtiel officiated.
CHARLOTTE J. CORNER, 83, passed away peacefully, in the presence of her children, on Feb. 18, 2021, after a nearly three-week battle with non-COVID pneumo-
nia. Charlotte was born Aug. 24, 1937, and grew up in Rocky Mount, N.C. She loved the Detroit Institute of Arts and served as a volunteer there for 20 years. She also loved the beach and had many fond memories of the shores of North Carolina. Her love of family and friends was evident in everything she did. Mrs. Corner is survived by her daughter, Ruthie (Harvey) Hurwitz; son, Stephen (Katie) Corner; grandchildren, Eli, Sam, Emily and Hannah (Joe). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phillip. Contributions may be made to the Detroit Institute of Arts, Temple EmanuEl or a charity of one’s choice. DONALD ROBERT EPSTEIN, 76, of Bloomfield Hills, died on Feb. 19, 2021. Donald graduated Harvard College in 1966 and received his law degree from the University of Michigan in 1969. He was past-president and CEO of Vesco Oil for 25 years. Donald just celebrated 50 years with the Michigan Bar Association. He was a senior partner at Sommers, Schwartz, Silver and Schwartz. Mr. Epstein was the beloved husband for 50 years of Marjory Winkelman Epstein; cherished father of Lilly Epstein (Alex) Stotland and Lena Rose Epstein; loving grandfather of Nathan Stotland, Elise Stotland and Emma Jules Medwed; he leaves loving nieces, nephews, cousins, a world of friends and many coworkers at Vesco Oil. He was the devoted son of the late Eugene and the late Elsie Epstein; sonin-law of the late Stanley Winkelman and the late Margaret “Peggy” Winkelman; brother of the late Richard Epstein. It is suggested that those who wish continued on page 40 MARCH 4 • 2021 JANUARY 2 2020
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OBITUARIES
OF BLESSED MEMORY continued from page 39
to further honor the memory of Donald Robert Epstein may do so by making a contribution to one of the following organizations: Yad Ezra, 2850 W. 11 Mile Road, Berkley, MI 48072, (248) 5483663, yadezra.org/donate; Hebrew Free Loan, 6735 Telegraph Road, Suite 300, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301, (248) 723-8184, hfldetroit. org; Temple Beth El, 7400 Telegraph, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301, (248) 851-1100, tbeonline.org/donation-page; Jewish Hospice & Chaplaincy Network, 6555 W. Maple, West Bloomfield, MI 48322, (248) 592-2687, jewishhospice.org. DR. SHERWIN FISHMAN, 89, of Tamarac, Fla., died on Sept. 12, 2020, after a long battle with
dementia. Dr. Fishman is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Laurice (nee Sorkin); Laurice’s children, Rabbi Jordan (Cynthia) Parr, Aric (Delta Besemer) Parr, Faith (Steve) Shapiro; grandchildren, Rebecca Parr, Sarah (Sam) Starobin, Asher (Vishakha Mathur) Parr-Besemer, Roqhalle Parr-Besemer, Aaron ParrBesemer and Luca Shapiro; sister, Phyllis Fishman of Las Vegas, Nev. Interment took place at Beth David Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Daniel D. Cantor Senior Center, 5000 Nob Hill Road, Sunrise, FL 33351.
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ANNETTE FREEDMAN, 99, of Middletown, R.I., formerly of West Bloomfield, died Feb. 17, 2021. She was very proud of her career as a school social worker in the Detroit and Birmingham school systems. Mrs. Freedman is survived by her daughters and sonsin-law, Donna Winkelman and Tom Easthope, and Laura Freedman and David Pedrick; son and daughter-in-law, Roy and Elizabeth Freedman; grandchildren, Larry and Julie Winkelman, Jeffrey and Keren Winkelman, Michael Winkelman, Rissa Freedman, Ara Freedman, Benjamin Pedrick and Geoffrey Pedrick; great-grandchildren, Alex, Max, Abby, Zev and Janna Winkelman; many stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren. She was the beloved wife of the late Gerald Freedman; the cherished mother of the late William Freedman. Interment was at Beth El Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to Wayne State University School of Social Work, Annette Sniderman Freedman Scholarship Fund, 5447 Woodward-Thompson Home, Detroit, MI 48202, cardinal.wayne.edu/wsugiving/ give.cfm. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. NORMAN KATANICK, 91, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., originally from Detroit, died Feb.
19, 2021. Norman was the kindest, most generous man in the
world. He liked everyone except the recycling truck driver, who Norman thought knocked down his mailbox but wouldn’t admit it. Every grandchild, niece or nephew will remember him giving them silver dollars when he saw them. His grandchildren thought he manufactured them in the basement. Mr. Katanick was the loving husband of Glorine (nee Kert) for just shy of 68 years; cherished father of Robin (Rick) Dissen, Karen Katanick (Mark Pasman) and Dr. Cindy Katanick; adored “Papa” of Sara (Matt) Warshauer, Gayle Dissen and Mitchell Kirschbaum; very special Papa Norman to Rachel and Tessa Warshauer; favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews. In addition, he is also survived by his beloved sister, Edith Farkas. Siblings who predeceased him were Gertie Hoberman, Irv Katanick, Bessie Kelman, Bill Katanick and Martin Katanick. GERALD “JERRY” KOWALL, 82, of Oak Park, died Feb. 23, 2021. Jerry was one of the 26 first cousins on his father’s side who grew up together in Detroit, offspring of the seven Kowall siblings — two men, five women — who immigrated as adults to the U.S. and Canada from Poland/Russia between 1913-1928. His grandparents, Moshe and Bella Kowall, came in 1930. Jerry’s father, Reuben Kowall, was the youngest, arriving in 1928. Isadore
Kowal was the oldest, immigrating in 1913 and gradually arranging for his five sisters, brother and parents to settle here, too. The grandparents’ home, 2754 Glendale in Detroit, was the gathering place for all the family for all holidays, daily and weekly visits, establishing a closeness between the cousins that continues. They were raised to look out for each other and to pass on those values to their own children. Jerry’s five aunts were Mary (Fill), Sarah (Goldbaum), Ethel (Kurian) Teible (Margolis) and Chaya (Mendelson). Many of the first cousins are gone now; sadly, just a few months ago, Cousin Herbie, Dr. Herbert Mendelson, died. Other surviving first cousins are Crownie Kurian Billik, Lucille Kurian, Esther Mollie Hartman, Marion Kurian Ratner, Esther Molly Margolis Fisher and Dr. Harold Margolis. Mr. Kowall is survived by his niece and nephews, Lisa and Steven Grossman, and Scott Faeder; great-nieces, Hilary and Lauren Grossman; sister-in-law, Madeline Kowall; many loving cousins. He was the loving brother of the late Harold Kowall, the late Alvin Kowall and the late Leatrice Faeder; the devoted son of the late Reuben and the late Frieda Kowall. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, 6735 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.
ROWENA HEATHER KRAKAUER, 65, of Austin, Texas, formerly of Detroit, died c 1993 Feb. 17, 2021. She is survived by her son, Gabriel Tabashnik of Tuscon, Ariz.; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Yehoshua and Dr. Sarah Krakauer; sisters and brothers-in-law, Sabrina Lynn and Dr. William Streusand of Austin, Melissa Beth Krakauer and Herb Ganz of Austin; other loving family members and friends. Contributions may be made to Capital Area Food Bank of Texas or Yeshiva Beth Yehudah. A family graveside service was held at Clover Hill Park Cemetery in Birmingham. Arrangements by Hebrew Memorial Chapel. JUDITH KRAVIS, 86, of West Bloomfield, died Feb. 22, 2021. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. James and Sandra Kravis, and Steven Kravis and Karen Sherman; daughters and sons-in-law, Helene and Charles Boldarini, and Hedi and Michael Carty; brother and sister-in-law, Sheldon and Shelly Schwartz. Mrs. Kravis was the beloved wife of the late Stuart Kravis. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association, 20700 Civic Center, Southfield, MI
OLD TRADITIONS. NEW TRADITIONS.
YOUR TRADITION.
Everyone experiences loss differently. And while there is a certain structure in Jewish funerals and rituals, it’s important that it brings something meaningful to all. We understand that. And we treat your family’s wishes with all of the respect and compassion they deserve. From guiding the arrangements without pressure to the memorial service and the appearance of the chapel itself, we are here, fully here, to meet your every need. It’s not the only way we help ease the burden of a loss. But it’s a special type of caring that makes a Dorfman difference.
30440 W. TWELVE MILE ROAD, FARMINGTON HILLS, MI 48334
248.406.6000 | THEDORFMANCHAPEL.COM
continued on page 42 MARCH 4 • 2021
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Some days seem to last forever…
We’re offering one that actually will.
You can honor the memory of a loved one in a most meaningful way by sponsoring a day of Torah learning at Yeshiva Beth Yehudah. During the coming week, Kaddish will be said for these departed souls during the daily minyan at Yeshiva Beth Yehudah. Your support of the Torah learning of our children and our Kollel’s Torah Scholars brings immeasurable heavenly merit. Please call us at 248-557-6750 for more information.
23 Adar March 7 Betty Barill Alexander Farber Norman Fill Sarah Horovitz Dorothy Beverly Levin Rebecca Lipshitz Sylvia Miller Channa Reitman Anna Silverman Beckie Traub Bessie Weinstein Wendy Weitzman Samuel Winograd 24 Adar March 8 Jerome Sylvan Baseman Sadie Bauman Abraham Deroven Rachel Leah Ellenson John R. Herman Max Kwartowitz Ida Mickelson Larry Posner Jacob Weinschenk Jacob Z. Welner Helen K. Wolson Frank Yorke 25 Adar March 9 Jessie Berris Celia Bresler Alex Goldberg David Heisler Sarah Kaplan Robert Levin Morris I. Medow Fannie Steinberg 26 Adar March 10 Rebecca Abel Isaac August Morris Balansoff Leizer Dzodin Nathan Grunt Max Newman Yetta Weinstein 27 Adar March 11 Frances Cutler Leonard Finkel Samuel E. Gottlieb Frank Greenwald
Rose Kaner Louis Kasoff Sam Levine Louis Patlow David Pessman Jack Pinchuk Abraham Riskin Tzeitel Schmidel Lillian Schwarcz Abe Schwartz Goldie Schweitzer Max Spoon 28 Adar March 12 Max Beal Sam Belkin Benjamin R. Berman Sam Brown Max Frazein Martha Garfinkel Rose Katz Jack Lewis Bella M. Rabinovitch Essie Rosenbloom Pearl Stein Benjamin Sussman 29 Adar March 13 Adolph Bassin Misha Bickoff Frida Klein Biegel Lisa Birman Rebecca Cohen Goldie A. Delidow Mary Ernstein Thelma Golob Abraham Holcman Jean Kaplan Anne Kosins Lillian Pitkowsky Herman Schultz Sarah Sherwin Louis Shoskes Minnie Shrager Hannah Usher
School for Boys • Beth Jacob School for Girls • Bais Yehudah Preschool Weiss Family Partners Detroit • Kollel Bais Yehudah • Maalot Detroit P.O. Box 2044 • Southfield, MI 48037• 248-557-6750 • www.YBY.org
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OBITUARIES
OF BLESSED MEMORY continued from page 41
48076, diabetes.org. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. EARL KRENTZIN, silver sculptor, 91, passed away Feb. 2, 2021, at his home in Grosse c. 1985 Pointe Farms. A 1947 graduate of Cass Technical High School, he earned a B.F.A. from Wayne State University and an M.F.A. from Cranbrook Academy of Art. A recipient of a Fulbright Grant, he did post-degree work at the Royal College of Art, London, 1957-58. A Tiffany Grant was awarded in 1966. Earl taught art at the University of Wisconsin and was a visiting professor at the University of Kansas and at Florida State University. He maintained a home studio and his work has appeared in one-man shows and group shows for more than 50 years. His artwork is part of private and public collections across the country, including Cranbrook Museum, Detroit Institute of Arts, Philadelphia Art Museum, Arkansas Art Center, St. Paul Art Center, the Museum of Contemporary Crafts and the Jewish Museum in New York City. Mr. Krentzin is survived by his wife, Lorraine; son, Alex Krentzin. He was predeceased by his siblings, Pauline Beckman, Etta Tuber, Nathan Krentzin and Lewis Krentzin. Due to the pandemic, all plans are incomplete.
RALPH LEVIN, 91, of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla, died Feb. 19, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Estelle Levin; daughter, Rona Levin; sons and daughters-in-law, Robert Levin and Stacy Mollison, and Michael and Maila Levin; grandchildren, Jason (Jeanne) Clinton, Bryan (Mary) Clinton, Ashley Wenson, Alyson Wenson, Alexandra Wenson, Brett Levin, Jessi Levin, Brittany Saghi and Brandon Gilbert; great-grandchildren, Brooke Clinton, Harper Clinton, Easton Clinton, Estelle Clinton,and River Noble; his loving caregiver, Jaleen Chambers. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, stjude.org; or Crohn’s and Colitis FoundationMichigan Chapter, 25882 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 102, Farmington Hills, MI 48336, crohnscolitisfoundation. org/chapters/michigan. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel. MICHAEL DAVID TOFT, 54, of West Bloomfield, died Feb. 18, 2021. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Michael was raised in Michigan. He graduated from Southfield-Lathrup High School in 1984 with honors. A proud Wolverine at the University of Michigan, he studied microbiology and
medicine and was in the top 6% of his medical school class. He also did medical research. An avid reader, a Jeopardy wiz, he was also an avid sports fan, including the Detroit Tigers; he also loved tennis; Tom Brady was his favorite football player. He played hockey with the Southfield Hockey program. A proud Jew, he received his bar mitzvah at Congregation Shaarey Zedek and then went to Israel with his family to celebrate. Michael was a brilliant, sweet, kind, caring and very courageous individual; he always did his best. Mr. Toft was the beloved son of Marlene Soverinsky Toft (an elementary school teacher) and Dr. Bernard Toft (a pediatric allergist); loving brother of Kenneth Mitchell (Brittany) Toft and Alyssa
Joyce Toft; dear uncle of Aaron and Franklin Toft; best friend of Joel Kaufman; cherished nephew of Dr. Louis (Sally) Soverinsky, Herbert (Marsha) Bishko of Ramat Aviv, Israel, Douglas (Gail) Lyon; cousin of Stephen and Linda Jacobson, Mark and Lisa Soverinsky, Jerry and Jana Soverinsky, and Randy and Brenda Soverins, Bracha Goslin, Debbie Goslin, Michael Goslin, Shirli Bishko (and family) and Ronit Bishko (with son, Mordechai and daughter, Esther) of Ramat, Aviv, Erin Lyon and Kyla Lyon (and her two sons); second cousin of Arica Jacobson (fiancé, Ryan Levine), Rachel (Joel) Goldstein (and their children, Yahra and Gedalia), Joshua Jacobson, Marni Jacobson, Rebecca, Mara and Ellie Soverinsky, Melanie, Michael and Nathan Soverinsky, Max Soverinsky.
He was the grandson of the late Aaron and the late Rayetta Soverinsky, and the late Harry and the late Clara Toft; nephew of the late Marilyn Soverinsky, late Isaac (late Beatrice) Goslin. Contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association for research to find a cure for Type 2 Diabetes, 20700 Civic Center Drive, Suite 100, Southfield, MI 48076. A family graveside service was held at Clover Hill Park Cemetery in Birmingham. Arrangements by Hebrew Memorial Chapel. MIRIAM HOLLANDER WEBERMAN, 95, of Farmington Hills, passed away on Feb. 19, 2021. She was born in Toledo, Ohio, on Oct. 29, 1925. After moving to New York, N.Y. as a child, Miriam and her family
moved to Detroit in 1942. She graduated from Central High School and received a B.A. and M.A. from Wayne State University, working her way through college while employed by the Packard Motor Car Co. and at the Wayne State library. Miriam married her beloved soulmate Harry Weberman on Oct. 31, 1948, and she had three children. Harry passed away in 2015 at age 93. Miriam was an esteemed and proud public educator. While raising their three children, she first taught secular subjects at a yeshivah in Detroit, then became a classroom and critic teacher in Detroit, a reading specialist in Warren and then principal of Walled Lake Elementary School, from which she retired in 1991. She also instructed teachers to teach reading at continued on page 44
WE ARE THE COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME We combine tradition and personal service in a modern world
ENTERING OUR SECOND CENTURY OF CARING AND RESPECTFUL SERVICE HebrewMemorial.org | 248.543.1622 | 800.736.5033 | 26640 Greenfield Rd, Oak Park, MI 48237
MARCH 4 • 2021
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OBITUARIES
OF BLESSED MEMORY continued from page 43
Madonna College. She was a proud feminist and Democrat, was always fascinated by all things Jewish, and was a devoted member of Congregation B’nai Moshe for 65 years Mrs. Weberman is survived by her three adoring children, Bernie (the late Rachelle Levitt) of Washington, D.C.; David of Vienna, Austria, and Freya of Huntington Woods; brother, Leo Hollander (Harriett) of Farmington Hills; five cherished grandchildren, Melissa Weberman, Emily Weberman, Philip Helfrick, Talia Helfrick and Lucie Weberman; many dear friends, other relatives and former colleagues and students. She was predeceased by
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her brothers, David (the late Giselle) and Martin (Jodie); brother-in law, Herbie Weberman (Joyce); and sisters in-law, Francis MacInnes (the late Kenzie), Betty Silverman (the late Larry) and Ruth Blumberg (the late Harry). A celebration for all friends and family to honor Miriam will be planned once it is safe to do so. Contributions may be made to Congregation B’nai Moshe or the Walled Lake Public School System. Arrangements by Hebrew Memorial Chapel. DR. RICHARD D. WILLIAMS, 88, of Bloomfield Hills, died Feb. 23, 2021. He is survived
by his loving companion of 30 years, Carol Cooper; daughters and sons-in-law, Judy and Mitchell Weiner, Margie and Marc Davis, and Janet Weinberg; grandchildren, Lauren and Jason Touleyrou, Andrew Weiner, Mallory Weiner, Justin and Jeannette Davis, Janey Davis, Rachel Weinberg and her fiancé, Austin Brooks, and Louis Weinberg; sister and brotherin-law, Nancy and Raymond Silverman; Carol’s children, Rochelle and Michael Kowalski, and Jason Cooper; Carol’s grandchildren, Paris and Kevin Lining, Ian Cooper, Lindsay and Nic Gilbert, and Carly and Joe Corey; Carol’s great-grandchildren, Langston Lining, Kylie, Olivia and
Emersyn Gilbert, and Hayden Corey; other loving family and friends. Dr. Williams was the beloved husband of the late Marian Ruskin Williams and the late Anne Loewy Williams. He was also predeceased by Carol’s son, Mark Cooper. Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity-Detroit Alumni Chapter, P.O. Box 251304, West Bloomfield, MI 48325, aodetroit.org. Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.
KDONLEY1 VIA WIKIPEDIA
RASKIN PINTEREST
THE BEST OF EVERYTHING
LEFT: A Royal Oak homeowner has another of the statues. CENTER: Chief Pontiac is now at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. RIGHT: A statue now graces the Clarkston Union.
A Yesteryear Fun Site with Dining for All
Native American-themed Hedge’s Wigwam featured a cafeteria-style buffet.
I
t seemed like their first visit to the famous old landmark on Woodward and 10 Mile, Pleasant Ridge … And for certain, if youngsters were with the customers who came to Hedge’s Wigwam. On the roof was a simulated giant wigwam … From 1927 until 1967, this wigDanny wam meant two Raskin Senior Columnist things to the people of Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills. To the residents, it meant they were home … To others, it certainly indicated to them some very good food for dinner. The entrance to Hedge’s Wigwam was guarded by some of the sternest looking wooden Native Americans, similar to what you would see outside of a cigar store of yesteryear.
Many eyes were opened further … Especially those of youngsters there for the first time at the long, gleaming counter laden with food. There were the famous chicken pies, roast prime ribs, a big pan of spaghetti, a pile of fish fillets, etc., plus a pot of mashed potatoes, crispy green salads, fruity salads and a lot of vegetables… Many youngsters would rush to the lavish section filled with pies, cakes, tarts and ice cream. No fieldhand after hours of hard work in the fresh air possibly could have devoured the food many guys and gals would possibly gulp down … Everything was so tasty and wholesome. The inside of Hedges was pretty much the same all year. While attacking the heaping plate of food, there were lots of interesting things at which
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folks could look … The inside was finished in a rough-hewn log cabin type décor … The walls were hung with interesting Native American regalia and paraphernalia. Few will forget its tables … They had scenes from early Indian life depicted right under the glass … There were leaves, moss and birchbark, and brightly colored moths and butterflies … The chairs were hand-carved, just like in a pioneer’s cabin. There was a gift shop … and you can be sure that if any of the kids were along, many parents bought him or her a birchbark canoe with “Hedge’s Wigwam” stamped on the side. MARKOS GOULAS, new owner of Uptown Parthenon, is the nephew of Tom Goulas, who was erroneously named as owner in a previous column … Markos’ father, Athanasios Goulas, is Tom’s brother.
Nibbles
RESTAURANT PROSPECTIVE owners and managers need employees to run their businesses… It makes sense to treat them well so they’ll satisfy the customer … Good waitpersons often tell customers their names for a special, friendly touch … They take orders as soon as possible after giving diners time to study the menu … Some waitpersons have a sixth sense about proper timing and don’t keep asking for dining orders when customers are relaxing over a cocktail. OLDIE BUT GOODIE … The beautiful waitress asked what he would like … She slaps him in the face and walks away boiling … A gent seated nearby starts laughing while telling him, “It’s quiche … not quickie!” CONGRATS … To Leon Spitz on his 75th birthday. Danny’s email address is dannyraskin2132@gmail.com.
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Looking Back
From the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History
A Hero of World War II
S
eventy-six years ago, on Feb. 23, 1945, Joe Rosenthal, a photographer with the Associated Press, took one of the most iconic images in American history. The photo, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography, showed six United States Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi on the Pacific island of Iwo Jima. The image from the photo was later depicted in 3-D for the Marine Corps Memorial statue in Washington, D.C. The flag raising was in the midst of the famous and horrific battle to wrest Iwo Jima from the Imperial Japanese army during Mike Smith WWII. After a six-week struggle, Alene and Graham Landau there were 26,000 American casuArchivist Chair alties; nearly 7,000 of them were killed in action. Recently, while cruising the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History, among the hundreds of stories about Detroit Jews serving in the military I ran across an obituary in the June 28, 2002, issue of the JN for William J. Weinstein, major general in the United States Marine Corps. Weinstein was in the fight at Iwo Jima. Weinstein was born in Detroit Dec. 9, 1917. He graduated from Wayne State University Law School in 1940 and enlisted in the Marines in July 1941. Weinstein was commissioned a second lieutenant six months later in January 1942. Weinstien’s first assignment was commander of a rifle company commander. As such, he fought in several battles, including Saipan and Tinian in the southern Pacific Ocean as American forces “island hopped” toward Japan. In 1945, as an operations officer for the Marine Corps Fourth Division, Weinstein was engaged in the battle of Iwo Jima, one of the toughest and most famous battles in Marine Corps history. In between battles, Weinstein married Evelyn Ross in 1944. They had two children, Michael and Patricia; Michael was born while William was overseas. Evelyn tragically passed away at the early age of 51. Weinstein later married Rose, who was his wife when he died in 2002 (I think her maiden name was Godwin, but I cannot
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confirm this fact in the Archive). After the war, Weinstein remained in the USMC Reserve. He rose through the ranks until he was promoted to brigadier general in 1967, the first Michigander and only the second Jew to hold that rank. In 1971, he was promoted to major general, a rank he held until his retirement in 1975. Weinstein was also awarded numerous medals during his stellar military career. After the war, Weinstein was a prominent lawyer in Detroit for many years, the senior partner in Weinstein, Kroll and Gordon P.C. He was a director of the American Bar Association and a fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers. He was also an active member of Congregation B’nai David. And, having lost many members of his father’s family in Poland at the hands of the Nazis, Weinstein was a staunch supporter of Israel. In 1994, he was given the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanities Award for Israel Bonds and was in the Prime Minister’s Club. Among other honors, in Detroit, Mayor Roman Gribbs declared Aug. 12, 1971, to be William J. Weinstein Day. Maj. Gen. William Weinstein was a credit to the USMC, and to Detroit’s Jewish community. As Marines would say: “Semper Fi.” Want to learn more? Go to the DJN Foundation archives, available for free at www.djnfoundation. org.
JOE ROSENTHAL OF THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
accessible at www.djnfoundation.org
MAIN ENTRÉE
*Each Platter serves 10-12 People
Roasted Beef Brisket Platter
Passover Price $100.00 ea.
With caramelized onions and gravy
Beef Tenderloin Platter
$174.99 ea.
COOKED TURKEY Amish
10 lbs. 15 lbs. 20 lbs. 25 lbs.
Whole $85.00 $110.00 $140.00 $175.00
Sliced $95.00 $120.00 $150.00 $185.00
Kosher
10 lbs. 15 lbs. 20 lbs. 25 lbs.
$100.00 $140.00 $200.00 $250.00
$110.00 $150.00 $210.00 $260.00
Garnished with vegetables and horseradish sauce
Baked or Poached Salmon Platter
$100.00 ea.
With Mustard Dill sauce
Boneless Grilled Chicken Platter Grilled Vegetable Platter
$65.00 ea. $49.99 ea. $69.99 ea.
Small (serves 8 - 12) Large (serves 20 - 25)
SALADS
Sm. feeds 6-8, Med. feeds 15-20, Lrg. feeds 35-40
Greek
$30.00 sm. $45.00 med. $65.00 lrg.
Feta Cheese, Tomatoes, Beets, Olives, Red Onions, Cucumbers, and Pepperoncini with Greek Dressing
Michigan Salad
$35.00 sm. $55.00 med. $75.00 lrg.
Blue Cheese, Chopped Walnuts, Dried Cherries with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Caesar
$30.00 sm. $45.00 med. $65.00 lrg.
Fresh Romaine, Homemade Croutons, and Parmesan with Caesar Dressing
House Cucumber, Grape Tomato, Red Onion, and Chick Peas with Ranch Dressing
Quinoa Salad Spinach, Raisins, Carrots, Onions, Red Peppers and Quinoa with Lemon Vinaigrette
$30.00 sm. $45.00 med. $65.00 lrg. $35.00 sm. $55.00 med. $75.00 lrg.
SIDE DISHES Vegetarian Chopped Liver Chicken Chopped Liver Chicken Broth Matzo Balls (4 pack)
Latkes
$1.99 ea.
(made with matzo meal)
Gefilte Fish Matzo Kugel Noodle Kugel (Sweet) Mushroom Potato Kugel Charoses*
$5.99 ea. $7.99 lb. $7.99 lb. $7.99 lb. $9.99 lb.
*Fresh Apples, Nuts, Wine, and Cinnamon
Vegetable Kishka Kasha Pifaf
VEGETABLES Mashed Potatoes Roasted Red Skin Potatoes Roasted Sweet Potato Chunks Glazed Carrots Roasted Vegetables Green Bean Almondine Peas & Mushrooms Tzimmes
$11.99 lb. $11.99 lb. $7.99 qt. $5.99 ea.
$5.99 lb. $5.99 lb. $6.99 lb. $6.99 lb. $5.99 lb. $5.99 lb. $5.99 lb. $6.99 lb.
Call Catering Department to place order. 24 hour notice needed.
248.855.0007 32906 Middlebelt Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs, may increase your risk for food-bourne illness. Prices subject to change without notice.
$7.99 lb. $5.99 lb.
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