Cleveland Kesher, Winter 2025

When Gene’s* wife, Ellen*, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, he felt lost and unsure where to turn.

Thanks to support from the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and Jewish Family Service Association — a Federation beneficiary agency — Gene and Ellen received personalized care navigation services designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Now, they have guidance, resources, and the reassurance that they are not alone. Your donation to Campaign ensures Gene and Ellen –and hundreds like them – continue to get the support they need.

*Names have been withheld to protect client privacy.

Weiss elected University Heights mayor

Cleveland Kesher

Michele Weiss will be the next mayor of University Heights after winning the Nov. 4 general election.

Weiss received 1,981 votes, or 56.63%, with challengers J. Chauncey Hutton getting 1,306 votes, or 37.34% and Philip Atkin picking up 211 votes, or 6.03%, according to final, unofficial results from the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections.

She will be sworn in on Jan. 1, 2026.

Yeshiva World News reported that Weiss will become the first female Orthodox Jewish mayor in the U.S.

Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan has served University Heights since 2018. He announced in January that he would not seek a third consecutive term, stating in a news release that “every goal has been met.”

Brennan replaced incumbent Susan K. Infeld, who served from 2010 to 2017, to earn his first term in office. For his second term in 2021, he defeated Barbara Blankfeld, Ken Simmons and Atkin.

Weiss, 50, has served on city council for nine years and currently serves as vice mayor.

She has lived in University Heights for 28 years and received both her undergraduate degree in accountancy and her M.B.A from John

Carroll University in University Heights. She is the controller for the Hebrew Academy of Cleveland in Cleveland Heights.

Weiss is a founding member of the nonprofit, AMATZ Initiative, which provides professional development for the improvement of principals of schools, and holds board positions on YACHAD and the community relations committee at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood, according to her campaign website.

Brennan’s terms as mayor have brought conflict and clashes with residents and council members over the years.

In March 2024, University Heights Forward, a citizen-led nonpartisan political action committee, took steps to recall Brennan, citing unprofessional and inappropriate behavior, as well as defamation towards city employees, guests and members of city council in public forums but it never moved to a recall vote or other action.

During her time as vice mayor, Weiss often found herself in public and other contentions with Brennan. She took part in censuring Brennan twice in 2021 and in 2024, the Cleveland Jewish News previously reported.

Fuchs Mizrachi School breaks ground for expansion

Cleveland Kesher

Fuchs Mizrachi School celebrated its groundbreaking for expansion just at the start of the school year, marking the beginning of an 18-month construction project that will add over 40% of square footage to the existing building at 26600 Shaker Blvd. in Beachwood.

The groundbreaking celebration featured bounce houses, an ice cream truck, cotton candy and a decorate-your-own hard hats station, keeping in the construction theme.

Head of School Rabbi Avery Joel said at the morning ceremony that the expansion project represents the school’s commitment to growth and is a direct result of the community coming together.

“It’s really a privilege to stand here today with all of you at this groundbreaking,” Joel

| Photos / Cleveland Kesher

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said, while addressing the crowd of students, parents, staff and supporters. “This moment is really not about brick and mortar. It’s about vision and partnership.”

Calling the expansion an “investment in the future of Jewish education,” Joel opened his remarks at the ceremony by sharing a story from the final days of the 2024-25 school year as second-grade students watched the construction vehicles roll in during recess and tear down a student’s “second favorite tree.”

“I didn’t know we ranked trees, but in that moment, I was reminded just how deeply these spaces actually matter,” Joel said. “They’re not just wood chips and slides, they’re filled with the stories of our children. Their laughter, their friendships, and yes, even their second favorite trees. As much as we honor those memories, our job as a school is to keep building new ones to create more room for learning,

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growing and belonging.”

According to Joel, the expansion will increase the number of classrooms by 50% in addition to the building of intervention spaces, a cafeteria, a second gymnasium and STEM labs.

Danielle Wild, the newest board president and co-chair of the school’s capital and endowment transformation campaign, said at the ceremony that the school has had to turn away students due to limited space, so the expansion is necessary in order to allow rosters to grow.

“Here at Fuchs Mizrachi, we are in a beautiful building that was built to house an aspirational number at the time of 450 students,” Wild said at the ceremony. “This year, our enrollment will be 580, a number that nobody dared to imagine 15 years ago. With that amazing growth, we are currently in desperate need of additional classrooms, intervention spaces and gathering space, to name a few.”

According to Wild, the school has already received written or verbal commitments of $23 million toward the building campaign before construction even began.

This number, she said, is “an incredible accomplishment,” especially considering the school’s additional ongoing endowment campaign, in which $18 million has already been raised. Many thanks, she said, go to Stephen H. Hoffman and the Jack, Joseph and Mandel Foundation, among other donors and supporters including the Jewish Federation

of Cleveland, the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland, Beachwood Mayor Justin Berns and state Rep. Eric Synenberg from Beachwood.

“Realizing that asking donors for an endowment campaign and a capital campaign so close together would be difficult, the Mandel Foundation amazingly decided that for schools of capital needs, they will again contribute matching dollars to help with the capital campaigns needed to fund our construction needs,” Wild said. “For Fuchs Mizrachi, that meant an additional $12.5 million in matching funds for our building expansion project.”

Wild also thanked the Weiss family, who are supporting the school with an additional match where all donations in excess of $500,000 to both endowment and capital campaigns will be matched at one-and-a-half times, and donations for $5,000 to $500,000 will be matched double.

Hoffman, chairman of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, and Erika B. Rudin-Luria, president of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, both spoke at the ceremony as well, extending their gratitude for the school’s support and excitement for the expansion, of which would not be possible without community support, Joel said.

“This expansion is not the work of one person or one family,” Joel said. “It’s the result of a community coming together – the Federation, the Mandel Foundation, donors, parents, teachers and friends – each stone adding its strength, united to build something greater than ourselves.”

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RONALD

FLEETER President

Ronald J. Fleeter President

Campaign for Jewish needs chair Jaffa sees more to do as annual campaign closes

Cleveland Kesher

As the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s 2026 Campaign for Jewish Needs comes to a close on Dec. 8, Amir Jaffa looked back on his two years spent as campaign chair and spoke of what he still planned to accomplish before his term ends.

Jaffa, who was selected in 2024 to succeed Beth Wain Brandon as campaign chair, led the 2025 Campaign for Jewish Needs, which raised $38,087,175. His two-year term as campaign chair will end with the 2026 campaign, which kicked off on Sept. 7 and officially closes on Dec. 8.

“The Federation’s annual campaign raises much-needed funds to support so many of the wonderful institutions within Cleveland and, quite honestly, around the world,” Jaffa told Cleveland Kesher. “The goal is to raise as much money as possible for the community, locally and globally.”

Jaffa said while raising dollars is the “heaviest lift” of the campaign chair role, he also prioritized meeting people in the community.

“There’s no question about the fact that I’ve had the opportunity to meet some wonderful folks, from large donors to people who are running day-to-day organizations,” Jaffa said. “My top priorities as campaign chair have been to get out and meet as many people as possible, and to tell the stories of all the wonderful work the Federation does.”

Jaffa said educating potential donors on the full role the Federation has in serving the community has been the biggest challenge he

has faced during his term, but that helping people understand the ways they benefit from the Federation’s services – even if they do not realize they do – is an important part of earning campaign donations.

“A big part of making sure the community understands, at large, what the Federation does was an important role for me personally,” Jaffa said. “I know what they do, but even I have learned a lot over the last two years, and I believe the amount of people I’ve connected with, and will continue to connect with, to educate them is also critical, because I feel the community does not fully comprehend the breadth of what the Federation does.”

Jaffa, a resident of Beachwood and congregant of Congregation Zichron Chaim in University Heights, said in a diverse community like Cleveland, the needs of people are everevolving. There are a few examples of this, he said, one being the difference in the amount of money the Federation needs to spend on security initiatives now versus just a few years ago.

“Mental health and food support are a couple examples of growing needs in the community, and the Federation’s involvement with these types of organizations has also grown,” Jaffa said.

Jaffa said some positive growth has occurred, too, such as in Jewish day schools.

Jaffa said his successor has not been named, and the Federation’s focus will turn to that next.

“We’re asking leadership at synagogues to get involved and help us reach more people,” Jaffa said. “We know there’s more opportunity, and certainly more donors, out there. With about a month left, the goal is to hammer phones, get a hold of people and get donations.”

To make a donation or learn more about the campaign, visit jewishcleveland.org/campaign.

Women’s Health and Wellness Expo attracts 350 women

Cleveland Kesher

Bikur Cholim of Cleveland held its 2025 annual Women’s Health and Wellness Expo on Nov. 10 at Green Road Synagogue in Beachwood, where 350 women heard experts discuss health care for women of all ages.

Rorie Weisberg, founder and CEO of Full ‘n Free, cookbook author and health and wellness coach, displays her book, “Food You Love That Loves You Back,” at Bikur Cholim of Cleveland’s 2025 Women’s Health and Wellness Expo on Nov. 10 at Green Road Synagogue in Beachwood.

“The perceived value of hosting this event is it gives us a chance to harness all the wonderful institutions in our community and show

and Chana

Dovid Ribakow, Dr. David Liska, chair of the department of colorectal surgery at Cleveland Clinic, Rabbi Alan Joseph, executive director of Bikur Cholim of Cleveland, Dr. Miguel Regueiro, chief of the Digestive Disease Institute at Cleveland Clinic, and Dr. Michael (Meir) Pollack, president of Bikur Cholim of Cleveland. | Photos / Cleveland Kesher

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Dr. Ira Taub, pediatric cardiologist at Akron Children’s Hospital, presents “Heart Health Matters: Essential Tips for Young Adults and Moms-to-Be.”

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Tamar Poupko Smith, regional manager of the Jewish Fertility Foundation in Cleveland, poses at the organization’s booth, where guests at Bikur Cholim’s 2025 Women’s Health and Wellness Expo could learn more about infertility awareness and familybuilding pathways. | Photos / Cleveland Kesher

what they have to o er, to form connections with them and to educate the women of our community,” Dr. Michael (Meir) Pollack, president of Bikur Cholim, told Cleveland Kesher about the third annual event. “We consider women the bedrock of our families. Women hold essential roles both in and out of the household, so we want them to be healthy and never neglect themselves. We want to show them what’s out there and be a resource for them.”

In a series of various presentations, doctors from University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic,

Akron Children’s Hospital and MetroHealth System shared resources about health concerns primarily facing women, like breast cancer, menopause and infertility. Some also discussed how dealing with other concerns, like heart health, Crohn’s disease and sustainable wellness, can look di erent for women.

Attendees also had the chance to receive signed copies of cookbook author Rorie Weisberg’s “Food You Love That Loves You Back,” and “More Food You Love That Loves You Back.”

Attendees had a chance to talk to vendors as well as enjoy a bu et-style dinner.

Serels kick starts Fuchs Mizrachi School’s soccer team

Cleveland Kesher

EvanSerels isn’t the type to stand up on a soapbox and give a moviesque monologue to inspire his team, and he isn’t exactly the “rah-rah” kind of guy either. Instead, the Fuchs Mizrachi School soccer player steps up as a leader and makes his team better by lending a helping hand to his teammates.

“I don’t really give speeches,” Serels told Cleveland Kesher. “In practice, I help my teammates improve with the things they need to work on. We’re not a super powerful kicking team, so we do that a lot in practice. I also help the coach out on what we need to do.”

And the striker guides by example, too, leading the Mayhem with three goals on the season. He was also named a Cleveland Jewish News-Les Levine High School Player of the Week this fall.

“Evan has led the team with exceptional leadership,” head coach Josh Harris told Cleveland Kesher. “His maturity, commitment and discipline on and off the field has laid the groundwork for another great season.”

And Serels is doing it all as just a sophomore, not only taking on such an important role as captain with the squad but also battling bigger opposing defenders who are both older and have played varsity for a few more years.

“Evan understands the importance of teamwork and has become more vocal this year, helping the younger players improve and excel at the next level,” Harris said.

Born in Boston before moving to Cleveland, soccer was the first sport that Serels took up as a child, taking the pitch at 4 years old.

“I was playing around with my dad or a friend, and then when we moved here I joined a rec league and started playing there,” he said. “I loved the game, so I just kept playing and

Evan Serels keeps his eye on the ball and wards off an opposing defender as he looks to go on the attack during a recent Fuchs Mizrachi School match. | Submitted photo

practicing to get better and progress.”

The sport was a natural fit for Serels, who liked being active and enjoyed the team aspect of the game. In fact, his favorite part of being on a soccer team is the “close bonds” he gets to share with his teammates along with getting to learn more about people and build better connections.

But he also wanted to help his teams win and grow as a player, and while he was quick on his feet, Serels knew he’d have to fine tune his game, he said.

“I used to be very fast as a little kid, so I would just run around people,” he said. “But I’m getting older and am playing way faster

opponents. I’ve had to practice my dribbling a lot, that’s the main thing, along with shooting from farther out and getting more power.”

He said another key aspect when going up against more experienced opponents is to boost up the physicality and not be bullied around on the field, a part of the game Serels takes pride in being strong at.

“I try to be as aggressive as I can,” he said. “I run through the ball if the defender has it, chase after him and sometimes I can get the ball and score. If I’m playing against a strong defender, there’s a give and go, pass the ball, I run and my teammates are good enough to make the pass, and that’s another way I score.”

While it’s brawn when Serels is on defense, he quickly uses his brain and high soccer IQ when on offense to help put the ball in the net, he said.

“When I get the ball, I take my time and space the field,” he said. “I used to play for (a

Get to Know Evan

Residence: Shaker Heights

Synagogue: Green Road Synagogue

Favorite Subject: Chemistry

Favorite TV Show: “All American”

Favorite Book: “Mockingjay” by Suzanne Collins

Favorite Pro Athlete: Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers

Favorite Jewish Food: Lachmagine

Favorite Jewish Holiday: Pesach

travel) team, and those kids are very good. The main thing I learned from there is that spacing and timing are the most important parts of the game. When I get the ball, I always look up to see if I need to attack or pass.”

For the future, Serels, who wants to keep practicing and improving his game, said that the Beachwood school hopes to get invited to a tournament to show what it is capable of.

Marketing Mastery: Expert Insights & Strategies

5 proven strategies to appear in ‘near me’ searches

Content provided by: Nachum “Nooch” Langsner

Here’s a scene that is happening all over the country right now.

John’s business has been serving the same neighborhood for almost 20 years.

He knows every regular customer by name and has built an excellent reputation through word-of-mouth referrals.

However, lately he has struggled to attract new customers, with fewer calling or walking through his door.

Meanwhile, John’s competitors are flourishing. They’re booking more customers than ever. Even the competitor that is 10 miles outside of town.

The reality is simple. While John provides an excellent service, it doesn’t automatically translate into online visibility.

Customers in his area who searched for precisely what he offered were unable to find John’s business.

It wasn’t visible for “near me” results.

Every day, millions of people search for local businesses using “near me” phrases, such as “pizza near me.” These aren’t potential customers who are browsing. They’re customers who are ready to visit, call or buy. Let’s look at how you can capture these valuable local searches for your business.

Below are five proven strategies to get found for ‘near me’ type searches.

HOW TO OPTIMISE YOUR BUSINESS FOR “NEAR ME” SEARCHES

Improve your Google business profile

It’s crucial to complete every section of your Google Business Profile. Essential elements include accurate NAP (name, address, phone number) information, business hours, categories and high-quality photos.

When

potential customers search for services “near

me,” they’re not looking for the best business in theory – they’re looking for the best

company they can actually find.

Choose the most relevant primary and secondary business categories that accurately describe your products or services.

Make time to regularly update your Google Business Profile with posts and offers, and keep all information up to date.

Use location keywords and signals throughout your site.

Optimize your website by naturally incorporating your location throughout your content.

You can add city or town names, neighborhoods and areas, and even regional landmarks.

Try to do this naturally, conversationally or helpfully, so it’s just a few times per page – you don’t want to overdo it.

You could even create location-specific service pages that target phrases like “Expert plumber in (neighborhood)” or “(service) near (local landmark), while providing genuine value to your visitors.

Additionally, ensure your on-page SEO (search engine optimization) is geographicallymodified.

Your title tags, meta descriptions, image alt tags and schema markup should all incorporate the areas you want to rank in.

Marketing Mastery: Expert Insights & Strategies

Deliver an excellent mobile experience.

The majority of “near me” searches are made on mobile devices and are often performed while someone is outside their home.

Your website must be optimized for mobile devices; otherwise, you risk losing out on these customers.

Ensure your website loads quickly, is easy to navigate, prominently displays your contact information, and uses click-to-call buttons that let visitors contact you immediately.

Build citations to boost your authority.

Consistent business listings across local directories, industry-specific websites, and community sites help establish local authority with search engines. Ensure each listing for your business uses identical NAP information. If you spot anything that looks out of place, take the time to correct the data.

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Consider adding listings on local business directories, chamber of commerce listings and neighborhood-specific websites.

Encourage location-specific reviews and engagement.

Reviews that naturally mention your business location, service area, or local landmarks help reinforce geographic relevance.

Don’t forget to ask customers to say their neighborhood or area when they leave you a review.

You should also engage with your local community through events or partnerships and create local content specific to your location.

The more you engage with your local area, the more opportunities you have to show search engines why you should be visible for “near me” searches.

START SHOWING UP WHERE YOUR CUSTOMERS ARE SEARCHING

The difference between businesses like John’s and his thriving competitors often comes down to local search visibility.

When potential customers search for services “near me,” they’re not looking for the best business in theory – they’re looking for the best company they can actually find.

By implementing these five strategies, you’re not just optimizing for search engines; you’re making it easier for ready-to-buy customers in your area to discover you at the exact moment they need your services.

The good news? You don’t need to tackle everything at once.

Start with your Google Business Profile today, then gradually work through the other strategies. Each improvement brings you one step closer to being the business that appears when your neighbors search for what you offer.

Your expertise and service quality deserve to get found – now make sure they are.

Nachum ‘Nooch’ Langsner is co-founder and chief

School SPOTLIGHT

CHAVIVA HIGH SCHOOL

Chaviva High School students gather for a school photo on the first day of the school’s eighth year, ready to begin a new chapter together.

Ninth graders Sarah Schwartz and Chaya Shira Liebowitz engage in collaborative learning, supporting one another as they take on new challenges.

Sulha Moritz, Rivkah Esther Corbett and Rebecca Moreno take part in a Lev activity making cinnamon buns, reflecting on how the process mirrors teshuvah and the lessons of personal growth.

Ahuva Belsky and Huvie Schabes collaborate with students to build straw structures symbolizing the strength, balance and partnership at the heart of the student–teacher relationship.

Students train together for Chaviva’s eighth annual Girls Only 5K, combining determination, teamwork and school spirit with every stride.

Content provided by Chaviva High School

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