The group S tudents for Justice in Palestine at the University of Pittsburgh has demanded the university’s Student Government Board pressure the school to divest from weapons manufacturers connected to Israel, disclose the contents of its investment portfolio and undergo an annual public auditing process.
Those demands were culled from two referendums advocated for and promoted by SJP during last year’s student government elections and were part of a lengthy screed voiced by several students wearing keffiyehs at a November SGB meeting.
Jwanted to work in public safety. More specifically, Lando wanted to be a police officer. He had to wait a little while, though, until his age caught up with his ambition.
Although Lando grew up in a family of business professionals, he was fascinated by the police. As a child, he loved to play cops and robbers with several friends, who all made a pact to fight crime when they grew up.
“I’m the only one that made anything of myself,” he joked. “The others are surgeons.”
And while it was his dream to be a police officer, the Squirrel Hill native knew when he graduated from Shady Side Academy that he’d have to wait until he was a little older to join the boys in blue.
So, Lando became a volunteer EMT and paramedic while attending the University of Pittsburgh, working toward a degree in its
Once he graduated, Lando’s dream came true when he became a Pittsburgh police officer in 2000, one of only three Jewish members of the more than 1,000member force; he served as both a police officer and paramedic.
He spent the first five years of his career working out of the Zone Two police station in the Hill District.
His excitement at being assigned to what was then considered the “lead zone” quickly faded when he learned his initial beat was in “the parked car,” meaning he would have to sit throughout his shift in a car in Point State Park.
“My first assignment was to drive this ridiculous baby car around the park,” he said. “People would point and laugh. It felt like a play car not a police car. I couldn’t wait to get on the street.”
The first question, which asked if the university should divest from weapons manufacturers connected to Israel, was approved by 60% of the total voters — 2,220 students of the approximate 3,700 undergraduates who voted in the election.
The second question, calling for Pitt to disclose its investment portfolio, was approved by 80% of the total voters — approximately 2,960 students of the approximate 3,700 undergraduates who voted.
About 20,000 students were eligible to vote, meaning the first referendum passed with the approval of approximately 11% of those eligible to vote; the second by approximately 14%.
SJP has been ramping up its advocacy against Israel since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on the Jewish state and Israel’s response. The group promoted and helped organize the encampment outside of the Cathedral of Learning on university property in 2024, which, at times, included violent clashes with law enforcement, leading to several arrests. SJP was suspended for six months last year after a protest at the Hillman Library.
p Jason Lando has been nominated by incoming Mayor Corey O’Connor to serve as Pittsburgh's police chief.
Photo courtesy of Jason Lando
Headlines
Blending flavors and friendship, Challah for Change yields sweetness for local college students
By Adam Reinherz | Senior Staff Writer
Jewishcommunal life in Oakland is growing — better yet, rising — thanks to students who regularly bake and braid challah on Thursday nights at Hillel JUC. Twice a month, nearly 100 young adults gather inside the organization’s Forbes Avenue building for a familiar activity that fosters connection and growth.
Challah for Change is “one of the most impactful events” available to students on campus, Hillel JUC Executive Director Dan Marcus said. “It’s about Jewish heritage. It’s about socialization, and it’s something that students can learn to do now and take into their future lives.”
Participants need not be bakers or even know how to read a recipe. All that’s required, Jacob Ross explained, is a commitment to wearing gloves and giving back.
The University of Pittsburgh student and Challah for Change president said he first became active in the group five semesters ago as a freshman. At the time, “I was just braiding and I didn’t really know anyone.”
Ross missed having his own oven and baking, so he asked about getting more involved. He was told about an open position on the Challah for Change board, and that the position enabled him to work in the kitchen.
The mechanical engineering student eagerly accepted. Two years later, he now oversees the group and strategizes with staff on innovative ways to enhance the experience.
With nearly 100 students routinely braiding and baking challahs on Hillel JUC’s third
floor, Sami Weiss said games and raffles add to the uplifting vibe.
“It’s just a good time,” Weiss, Hillel JUC’s Greek life and IACT coordinator, said during a Nov. 13 program. “People come, have fun, braid up some interesting flavored challahs, and really enjoy spending time in community.”
Flavors at the recent event included plain, dill pickle, caramel apple and Neapolitan. Previous varieties have included salt, everything but the bagel, garlic and s’mores.
A spreadsheet system ensures enough challahs are made for students to both purchase a loaf immediately following the event ($3 for plain, $4 for flavored) or even the next day on campus.
This semester, about 210 students have volunteered to either braid, bake or sell challah, Ross said.
Challah for Change a “really good way to be involved with Jewish life here on campus.” Not only does the event afford a “chill space to go to hang out with friends, but I have the opportunity to give back to my community.” Challah sale proceeds support the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry and other charities, Hannah Feldman, Hillel JUC’s Jewish student life director, said.
Harrison Romero, a Pitt student majoring in political science, said the “social factor” is certainly a draw, but “it’s just great that we’re able to do this for a good cause and make a difference.”
The two-hour event gives students a “break from our schoolwork and the stress from school,” said Pitt freshman Kira Friedel. Since arriving at Pitt in the fall, Friedel has
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p Balls of dough as well as students are a regular sight at Hillel JUC in Oakland.
Photo by Adam Reinherz
Headlines
By Adam Reinherz | Senior Staff Writer
With her constant cries for unity, and safe return of all hostages taken on Oct. 7, 2023, Shelly Shem Tov became a familiar face to those following news in Israel. Shem Tov, whose son Omer was abducted by Hamas terrorists from the Nova music festival and held captive for 505 days, described efforts to secure his freedom and the blessing of seeing him come home.
Relying on photographs, videos and vignettes, Shem Tov, 52, told more than 200 Pittsburghers how she and her husband, Malki, were among the founders of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an organization assembled in the aftermath of Oct. 7 to support families and advocate for their loved ones’ return.
A stark realization spurred the formation of the group.
“Nobody was answering us — not the police, not the army — no one,” Shem Tov said, “We are together. We have the power to bring Omer back.”
Even before joining forces with fellow families of abductees, Shem Tov said she prayed. “I went to Omer’s room, and I locked his door, and I started to speak with God, and I told him, ‘God, I don’t have control about the things that happened to Omer, but please, let me understand what is in my control.’”
Shem Tov sat on her son’s bed and gained an understanding.
“It appeared to me,” she said. “Positive thinking creates positive reality.”
When she opened her eyes, she saw a messy bedroom. Shem Tov resolved to leave the room as is, and told her husband and their two other children not to clean it either.
“Omer is coming back home, and he will arrange his room by himself,” she said.
Later that evening, Shem Tov reentered her son’s room. She placed masking tape over the light switch and wrote in Hebrew “Do not turn off the light.”
For 505 days, Omer’s room stayed lit. When he finally returned home following his Feb. 22, 2025, release, the Shem Tovs held a party. After everybody left, Shelly S hem Tov told her son to go to his room.
He didn’t clean it, she said to a chuckling audience at Shaare Torah Congregation, but he “took the clothes from the floor and put them in the washing machine.”
The next thing Omer did was remove the “masking tape, and he turned off the light,” Shem Tov said. That moment “was pure happiness.”
Throughout her Nov. 23 address, Shem Tov recounted various attempts to secure release of the hostages, including meeting President
Donald Trump. These efforts, along with regular addresses at global events, made Shem Tov a recognizable member of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. Still, she credited partners worldwide with aiding the endeavor and implored Pittsburghers to continue helping bring back the three deceased hostages in Gaza: Dror Or, Master Sgt. Ran Gvili and Sudthisak Rinthalak.
Shortly before Shem Tov’s Pittsburgh speech, The Times of Israel reported the Hostages and Missing Families Forum will shut its Tel Aviv offices and offer “remaining financial resources” to the Or, Gvili and Rinthalak families, “who will decide for themselves how to spend the funds.”
For Pittsburghers, Shem Tov’s visit marked another point in a surreal period. Between the Oct. 7, 2023, abduction of 251 people and the Oct. 8, 2025, ceasefire announcement, local residents routinely gathered on the corner of Darlington Road and Murray Avenue in Squirrel Hill to sing, pray and
highlight the hostages’ plight in Gaza while demanding their safe return.
Shem Tov acknowledged those efforts.
“We couldn’t do it without you,” she said. “Thank you for everything you did for us, for being our voice, week after week, for praying for Omer, for us, for being supportive, for speaking.” Despite 6,000 miles separating Pittsburgh and Israel, “you feel my pain, and you pray for me and for my Omer.” The hugs now exchanged at home, “you have a part of that.”
Shem Tov told attendees the connections created, and the goodwill offered in the aftermath of horror, must not cease.
“We are writing, now, the history — and it’s not only the history of Israel, it’s the history of Am Yisrael (the Jewish nation).” This story should be driven by a power to be “united, to be good to each other, to understand each other — even when we don’t agree.” Disagreements in Israel and across the Diaspora must not be consumed by anger,
she continued. “The most important thing is that we need to love each other.”
Two years of activity instilled certain lessons, Laura Cherner explained.
Speaking to attendees of the Nov. 23 program, the Community Relations Council director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh said that by attending hostage gatherings, donning yellow pins, hanging up posters or “not letting people forget that they’re human beings being held,” Pittsburghers continued shining light on the issue.
Squirrel Hill resident Wendy Levin-Shaw called Shem Tov’s remarks inspiring and said they were another reminder to “support people who are living through this.”
Fellow Squirrel Hill resident David Levy agreed, and said, “It’s the minimum we can do.” PJC
Adam Reinherz can be reached at areinherz@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
p Shelly Shem Tov speaks to Pittsburghers on Nov. 23, 2025.
Photo by Adam Reinherz
Headlines
In Finland, small Jewish community seeks sizable engagement
By Adam Reinherz | Senior Staff Writer
HELSINKI — If a small community makes a sound will the world listen? There are fewer than 900 Jews in Helsinki, Finland. The hodgepodge of multi-generational Finns, ex-pats, Israelis and other Europeans vary in religious identity and engagement. Jewish communal touchpoints include weekly choir practice and synagogue attendance. Few gatherings — whether involving song, study, prayer, school-related meetings or challah bakes — attract more than 40 people. Most meetups, like those in a new kosher cafe, welcome closer to a dozen participants.
Chaya Votkin, the Jewish community’s president, dreams of growth.
Statistics, though, are secondary to residents collectively recognizing the distinct beauty of contemporary Jewish life and committing to its continued enhancement.
Votkin offered insight while seated inside Cafe Kesher. Located in the basement of the Helsinki Synagogue, the area surrounding the coffee bar and pastry shop was abuzz. On several tables near the cafe’s kitchen, 15 women prepared Shabbat loaves in memory of the mother of the community’s rabbi. A few feet away, a couple sipped drinks and
studied Hebrew. In an adjacent space, three other adults parsed rabbinic texts, while about 10 parents discussed an upcoming Israel trip for students at The Jewish Community School of Helsinki, before community members organized an impromptu prayer service.
A floor above the subterranean activities, nearly 30 talented sopranos, altos and tenors serenaded a guest.
The choir, according to Kenneth Rubanovitsch, 62, gives members a
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FONDLY, LISA & HERKY POLLOCK
community to belong to as well as a way to stay connected with their history: “Many of the people here are descendants of former choir members.”
Rubanovitsch joined the group in 1985. His grandmother was among the founders.
Choir origins, according to Votkin — who is also a member — date back more than a century.
At the time, the Finnish Jewish community was barely beyond its infancy.
No easy way out
Pointing to a small crown above the Helsinki Synagogue’s ark, Boel Dondysha, a communal secretary, described the arrival of Jewish Russian soldiers in the early 19th century.
After 25 years of service to the Red Army, she said, Jewish soldiers, called cantonists, were permitted to settle in what is now modern Finland. Despite their presence, these landsmen had limited opportunities. An 1869 decree identified permissible occupations and places of residence. Violation warranted expulsion from Finland. Only after Finland attained independence in 1917 did its nearly 1,000 Jewish inhabitants receive equal rights.
On the eve of World War II, there were about 2,000 Jews in Finland — most emigrating from Eastern Europe. With Finns experiencing fewer than 25 years of independence from Russian rule, memories of occupation and persecution loomed. Remembrance became reality when Soviets invaded Finland on Nov. 30, 1939.
Three months of war generated substantial loss, as nearly 24,000 Finns (almost 2% of the population) died, 11% of Finland was annexed by Russia and almost 430,000 residents had to evacuate their homes, according to author John Simon. When the Germans arrived in Finland offering food and arms in 1941, Russia had already reneged on mutual assistance pacts with the Baltic states. Having occupied Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, and portions of Finland, Soviet threats were palpable. For most Finns, the “choice was simple.”
As a co-belligerent to Nazi Germany, Finland — and its 300 Jewish soldiers — battled Russia from 1941 to 1944. During this period German authorities requested Finland deliver its 2,000 Jewish residents. Prime Minister Johann Wilhelm Rangell refused, reportedly telling SS Chief Heinrich Himmler, “We have no Jewish question,” according
to Yad Vashem.
Protection of Jews in Finland wasn’t absolute, though. Eight Jews, who had fled Austria, were secretly given to the Gestapo on Nov. 6, 1942. Finnish residents protested and ensured similar transfers ceased; however, seven of the eight Jews were killed in the Auschwitz concentration camp. In a separate exchange, 70 Soviet-Jewish prisoners of war were sent to Germany. The Jews, according to historians, died in German custody.
For their bravery and military service to Germany, three Finnish Jews were awarded the Iron Cross. All three Jews declined the honor.
Cloud cover
Nearly eight decades later, World War II still casts a shadow.
Michel Beniard, 79, recalled relocating to Finland from France 45 years ago.
Those active in Helsinki’s synagogue were “veterans of the Second World War, and they were a very close community,” he said. There was a “gap,” not only among generations but between Finns and foreigners, with the former “primarily speaking Swedish.”
“Some families were very openminded and very nice, but it was a bit strange,” he continued.
Synagogue practices were strictly Orthodox, however, the people were not. And then there was the “problem” of having joined the Germans during the war, Beniard said. “There was a bit of shame.”
As decades passed, communal dynamics shifted. Several changes appeared in classrooms, said fifth-generation Finn Daniel Weintraub, a history teacher at Helsinki’s Jewish school.
When the school started more than a century ago, many students came from families familiar with Jewish practices. Today, the non-confessional school, which follows a Finnish curriculum, has a larger responsibility.
Shmuel Beniard, rabbi of the Helsinki Jewish community, recalled speaking with a student who’d never heard of Rosh Hashanah, didn’t know about a shofar but somehow knew about dipping apples in honey.
Finnish scholar Mercédesz Czimbalmos, 34, spent two years studying “Minhag Helsinki.” Her research, and service in Helsinki’s chevra kadisha, led her to conclude the majority of community members couldn’t differentiate
p Chaya Votkin, president of the Jewish Community of Helsinki, sits inside Cafe Kesher, a new meeting place in Helsinki, Finland.
Photo by Adam Reinherz
p Student artwork decorates The Jewish Community School of Helsinki.
Photo by Adam Reinherz
Headlines
Security app Go Vigilant launches after input from Federation security team
By David Rullo | Senior Staff Writer
Do you want to receive real-time alerts for local, national and inter national events?
As the saying goes, “There’s an app for that.”
Go Vigilant bills itself as an “all-in-one personal safety platform built by experts from the front lines of national security, law enforcement, and emergency response,” with the goal of keeping users “prepared, informed and protected no matter where you are in the world.”
To do this, the application is divided into five areas:
• Academy, which aims to help users master critical safety skills and includes professional-level courses in things like first aid and active shooter response
• Intel, providing real-time safety alerts and intelligence updates
• Secure communications, featuring end-to-end encrypted messaging and secure information sharing with teammates and family, and the ability to send SOS messages and set rally points in emergencies
• Safety tracking, allowing users to monitor real-time threat alerts and live location tracking
• AI Travel Companion, letting users virtually chat to check if an area is safe or request a full travel briefing
Go Vigilant co-creator and CEO Ellie Pikula said she and co-creator Christopher Fox were working for the State Department when they discussed the idea of the app.
Pikula grew up in Pittsburgh and attended the University of Pittsburgh before moving
to Hoboken, New Jersey, with her husband. She worked at the State Department for about four years before co-founding Go Vigilant.
“We were working a missing person case for someone that had been captured abroad and we got frustrated,” she recounted. “So
much red tape existed in the government and security space. We thought we could design something that has less red tape and would keep people safe.”
The app — available in both the Apple and Google Play stores — was created with input from many different pilot partners, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. The partners provided feedback and suggested new features.
Pikula said she already had a connection to Federation’s Community Security Director Shawn Brokos through her time at the State Department. Both Pittsburgh and the Federation, she said, immediately came to mind when were seeking partners.
“I thought she [Brokos] would be a great fit. She is so smart when it comes to safety and protection and what the community needs,” Pikula said. “At that point, tensions were really high and there was a heightened need for security within the Jewish community.”
Pittsburgh, she said, seemed like the perfect place to find out if Go Vigilant really added value to community members.
Eric Kroll, Federation’s deputy security director, said Go Vigilant was in the beta testing stage of the app when he began using it.
He suggested some things that the Pittsburgh team would like to have added, he said, and overall, he’s found the app to be very useful.
“Especially if you’re traveling, even internationally. It starts giving updates of incidents and emergencies going on around you. It gives you situational awareness,” he said.
Kroll also liked the ability to contact someone through the app and “basically
say, ‘I’m in distress.’”
Go Vigilant was made for those with a need for security information, including individuals and families, Pikula said. The goal is to provide the right amount of verified information to keep the user updated without becoming overwhelming.
Some of the app’s competitors rely on user-generated alerts, which leads to flooded feeds that often feature misinformation, she said.
“We try to focus on a wider array of things that aren’t just violent crime-specific.”
When an emergency occurs, Go Vigilant can help tamp down users’ fears, Pikula said, because they receive verified information, including news articles.
Understanding what information people need is an important part of the app, which also includes things like transportation disruptions and power outages, she added.
A quick look at the feed when this story was being written included a tornado warning in Austin, Texas, a report from a local news source about a shooting, protests in India, a power outage in Ohio and even a report that authorities in Germany were disposing of a World War II-era bomb.
Earlier that morning there was information about a car accident that closed the Parkway East during morning rush hour. Users also can filter the information seen, selecting the severity and radius from their home.
“We really want to provide a holistic intelligence feed of things happening,” Pikula said. PJC
David Rullo can be reached at drullo@ pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
Superior Court rules swastika not material defect in home
Aswastika and German eagle tiled into the floor of a Beaver County home do not represent a material defect and the building’s seller was under no obligation to inform potential buyers of the hate symbols, according to the Superior Court of Pennsylvania.
The ruling comes after Lynn Rae Wentworth appealed a decision by the Court of Common Pleas of Beaver County Civil Division, which reached the same decision.
Wentworth and her husband, Daniel, purchased the house last year and discovered the swastika and eagle when they removed a rug in the home’s basement that had covered the symbols. They sued the home’s previous owners for the cost to remove the tile.
The home’s seller, Juergen M. Steinmetz, asserted through his attorney, Albert Torrence, that the swastika is an ancient
symbol used by many cultures and that it wasn’t a defect. Further, the defendant argued, the rug wasn’t affixed to the floor
and could have been removed at any time, allowing possible buyers to examine the floor.
A judge agreed, ruling against Wentworth. Wentworth said she was “super disappointed with the decision,” and that she was surprised by the judge’s ruling.
The current homeowner said she isn’t sure if she’ll appeal the decision again, noting that she “doesn’t see the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania overturning it.”
Instead, Wentworth said she may lobby state legislators to write a change in the law that would make hate symbols material defects.
“It might be better to propose and pass legislation that can really have an impact,” she said. “That’s where there’s more power than going through another round with the court and spending money to get the answer.”
As for the floor, Wentworth said she planned to remove the symbols once she was certain the court proceedings were over. PJC
— David Rullo
p Go Vigilant provides real-time alerts to help users remain situationally aware.
Photo courtesy of Ellie Pikula
p Homeowner Lynn Rae Wentworth was shocked to discover a tiled swastika beneath a rug in the home she recently purchased.
Photo by David Rullo
Calendar
Submit calendar items on the Chronicle’s website, pittsburghjewishchronicle.org. Submissions also will be included in print. Events will run in the print edition beginning one month prior to the date as space allows. The deadline for submissions is Friday, noon.
q SUNDAYS, NOV. 30-DEC. 28
Join Chabad of Squirrel Hill for its Men’s Tefillin Club. Services and tefillin are followed by a delicious breakfast and engaging discussions on current events. 8:30 a.m. 1700 Beechwood Blvd. chabadpgh.com.
Join a lay-led online Parashah study group to discuss the weekly Torah portion. No Hebrew knowledge needed. The goal is to build community while deepening understanding of the text. 8:30 p.m. For more information, visit bethshalompgh.org/online-parashah.
q MONDAYS, DEC. 1-DEC. 29
Join Congregation Beth Shalom for a weekly Talmud study. 9:15 a.m. For more information, visit bethshalompgh.org.
Join Temple Sinai for an evening of mahjong every Monday (except holidays). Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience, you are sure to enjoy the camaraderie and good times as you make new friends or cherish moments with long-term pals. All are welcome. Winners will be awarded Giant Eagle gift cards. All players should have their own mahjong cards. Contact Susan Cohen at susan_k_cohen@yahoo.com if you have questions. $5. templesinaipgh.org.
q TUESDAY, DEC. 2
The Klezmatics return with their beloved Happy Joyous Hanukkah Tour, honoring both Jewish tradition and bold musical reinvention. It’s a Hanukkah concert like no other: a celebration of light in dark times, where ancient stories meet new melodies, and community is built through dance, laughter and shared song. $30-50. 7 p.m. City Winery, 1627 Smallman St. klezmatics.com/tour-1.
q TUESDAYS, DEC. 2-JUNE 30, 2026
Join Beth El’s Rabbi Alex Greenbaum and his Bible/Talmud Adult Education class for a thought-provoking weekly session of Bible and Talmudic study. This program is available both in person and virtually. Call the office at 412-5611168 to receive the Zoom link or to make an inperson reservation. 10:30 a.m. 1900 Cochran Rd. bethelcong.org.
q WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3
The JCC and the Jewish Women and Religious Freedom in Pittsburgh Project, sponsored by the JWF of Greater Pittsburgh, present “Affirming All of Us: Gender, Religious Freedom, and the Role of the Jewish Community,” an in-person discussion on gender, inclusion and community allyship.
6:30 p.m. Free but registration is required. JCC of Greater Pittsburgh, 5738 Forbes Ave. bit.ly/aboutgender.
q WEDNESDAYS, DEC. 3-DEC. 10
Join Chabad of the South Hills for a new JLI course, “The Kabbalah of Meaning,” exploring Jewish wisdom for finding the purpose that connects parts of life. No previous Jewish learning required. Online or in person. This course will satisfy the continuing education requirements of physicians, health care professionals, psychologists, social workers, LMFTs and LMHC/LPCs. 7:30 p.m. chabadsh.com.
Join Chabad of Squirrel Hill for the JLI Course, “The Kabbalah of Meaning.” Explore Jewish wisdom for finding the purpose that connects all parts of life with the JLI course, “The Kabbalah of Meaning.” This course will satisfy the continuing education requirements of physicians, health care professionals, psychologists, social workers, LMFTs and LMHC/LPCs. 9 p.m. $90. 1700 Beechwood Blvd. chabadpgh.com/jlicourse.
q WEDNESDAYS, DEC. 3–DEC. 31
Bring the parashah alive and make it personally relevant and meaningful with Rabbi Mark Goodman in this weekly Parashah Discussion: Life & Text. 12:15 p.m. For more information, visit bethshalompgh.org/life-text.
Join Chabad of the South Hills for Baby Loves Shabbat, music and movement for ages 0 to 3. Challah making and Shabbat songs. 3:45 p.m. 1701 Bower Hill Road. chabadsh.com.
q THURSDAY, DEC. 4
Chabad of the South Hills presents the South Hills Great Challah Bake. Bake one loaf to take home and the other to share. 7 p.m. $25. 1700 Bower Hill Road. chabadsh.com.
q THURSDAYS, DEC. 4, JAN. 8, FEB. 5
Join Rabbi Amy Greenbaum and the Beth El community for the all-virtual Beth El’s Virtual Hope and Healing Program on the first Thursday of the month. This is a safe space to chant, breathe, pray for healing and seek peace. Feel free to keep your camera off and just listen. Call the office at 412561-1168 to receive the Zoom link. 5:30 p.m. Free. bethelcong.org.
q SATURDAY, DEC. 6
Families with young children are invited to attend Shabbat With You and spend Shabbat morning at Fifth and Morewood (Rodef Shalom) for a fun and engaging Shabbat morning service followed by lox, bagels and play time. 9 a.m. $5 per family. rodefshalom.org/shabbatwithyou.
Tree of Life Congregation announces the premiere of season 2 of The Torah Studio, with special guest Rector Jonathon Jensen of Calvary Episcopal Church. He and Rabbi Myers will lead a discussion of
We provide expert help with long term care planning, powers of attorney, wills, trusts and special needs. We help you implement legal and tax strategies to protect your wealth during your life and afterwards.
the Torah portion during Shabbat services, 9:45 a.m. Levy Hall, Rodef Shalom, 4905 Fifth Ave. treeoflifepgh.org.
q SUNDAY, DEC. 7
The Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle invites you to join the Chronicle Book Club for its discussion of “Hostage” by Eli Sharabi. 1 p.m. Email drullo@ pittsburghjewishchronicle.org for registration link.
Chabad of the South Hills invites you to attend the Miracle Makers Olive Press. Enjoy a toddler zone, latkes and treats. Co-sponsored by CKids and PJ Library. 4 p.m. $10 child. Register by Nov. 26. 1700 Bower Hill Road. chabadsh.com/olive.
Join Chabad of Squirrel Hill for “An Evening with Eli Sharabi.” Hear his story of survival and learn about his unimaginable strength and unwavering hope. 7 p.m. $18. Location to be provided. chabadpgh.com/sharabi.
q WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10
Join Classrooms Without Borders for Exodus 1947 and the Legacy of Survival: Heroism, Agency and Nation-building and hear a story of resilience, resistance and renewal in the shadow of the Holocaust. CWB Scholar-in-Residence Avi Ben-Hur will facilitate a discussion with Professor Aviva Halamish on how the survivors of the Exodus transformed loss into leadership. Halamish will share the untold story of their impact on the making of modern Israel. 7 p.m. Free. 4905 Fifth Ave. cwbpgh.org/event/exodus-1947.
q SATURDAY, DEC. 13
Join in community and enjoy a smorgasbord of dairy delights at the Cheese Ball, a causal and cheesy evening to support Shaare Torah Congregation. A cocktail hour will be followed by a presentation by Brent Delman, “The Cheese Guy.” Participants will indulge in a selection of cheese pairings while learning about the kosher cheese business and what it takes to acquire some of the best kosher cheeses in the world. Heavy appetizers, along with wine, beer and a specialty cocktail are included. All food will be chalav yisrael. Casual attire. 7:45 p.m. Learn more and register online at shaaretorah.net/event/cheese.
q SUNDAY, DEC. 14
Join Temple Ohav Shalom for Shalom Tots: Jelly and Jammies. Bring your own cozy comforts and
The Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle invites you to join the Chronicle Book Club for its Dec. 7 discussion of “Hostage,” by Eli Sharabi.
From Amazon.com:
mhm@ahmpc.com 4927 William Flinn Highway Allison Park, Pennsylvania 15101 We make house calls!
join them for a Hanukkah pajama party with custom-filled sufganiyot from a fillings bar, play a game of pass the parcel and sing Hanukkah songs in the candlelight. 10 a.m. Free. 8400 Thompson Run Road. templeohavshalom.org.
Join Chabad of the South Hills for the Annual Chanukah Festival including a grand menorah lighting, latkes, mobile game truck, music, donuts and firetruck gelt drop. RSVP to be entered into a raffle to win Chanukah swag. 5 p.m. Dormont Pool parking lot, 1801 Dormont Ave. chabadsh. com/menorah.
Join the Tree of Life Congregation for their outdoor menorah lighting. 5:30 p.m. Corner of Wilkins and Shady Avenues. treeoflifepgh.org.
q TUESDAY, DEC. 16
Tree of Life Congregation is partnering with Calvary Episcopal Church, Parkway Jewish Center and Temple David for this year’s Pittsburgh Penguins Jewish Heritage Night. Menorah lighting will occur during intermission and there will be kosher food stands and post-game photo opportunities. 7:30 p.m. PPG Arena. adamato@ pittsburghpenguins.com.
q WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
Chabad of the Souths Hills invites you to its Grand Chanukah senior’s lunch. Enjoy a delicious kosher lunch with hot latkes and a presentation by the Jewish Association on Aging and AgeWell Pittsburgh. $5 suggested donation. 1 p.m. Preregistration strongly suggested at 412-278-2658. 1701 McFarland Road. chabadsh.com.
q SATURDAY, DEC. 20
Join Chabad of the South Hills for Drinks & Dreidels, a Chanukah soiree. Enjoy a strolling magician, donuts, latkes, hors d’oeuvres and signature drinks. 7:30 p.m. $25. 1700 Bower Hill Road. chabadsh.com/dreidel.
q SUNDAY, DEC. 21
Tree of Life Congregation will join Calvary Episcopal Church for a joint Hanukkah and Christmas celebration. Tree of Life congregants will join their friends from Calvary to celebrate the holidays with pageantry and of course, food. 11 a.m. Free. Calvary Episcopal Church, 315 Shady Ave. treeoflifepgh.org. PJC
“On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists stormed Kibbutz Be’eri, shattering the peaceful life Eli Sharabi had built with his British wife, Lianne, and their teenage daughters, Noiya and Yahel. Dragged barefoot out his f ront door while his family watched in horror, Sharabi was plunged deep into the suffocating darkness of Gaza’s tunnels. As war raged above him, he endured a grueling 491 days in captivity, all the while holding onto the hope that he would one day be reunited with his loved ones.
“Eli Sharabi’s story is one of hunger and heartache, of physical pain, longing, loneliness and a helplessness that threatens to destroy
the soul. But it is also a story of strength, of resilience, and of the human spirit’s refusal to surrender. It is about the camaraderie forged in captivity, the quiet power of faith, and one man’s unrelenting decision to choose life, time and time again.”
Your hosts
Toby Tabachnick, Chronicle editor
David Rullo, Chronicle senior staff writer
How it works
We will meet on Zoom on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 1 p.m.
What to do
Buy: “Hostage.” It is available at area Barnes & Noble stores and from online retailers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It is also available through the Carnegie Library system.
Email: Contact us at drullo@pittsburgh jewishchronicle.org, and write “Chronicle Book Club” in the subject line. We will send you a Zoom link for the discussion meeting. PJC
www.pittsburghjewishchronicle.org
Headlines
Imam leads walkout over Jewish participant at CUNY interfaith event
Jewish groups and government officials condemned an incident at a recent interfaith event held on the campus of the City College of New York, at which a Muslim leader reportedly led a student walkout against the Hillel director after saying he refused to be “sitting next to a Zionist,” JTA reported.
The incident took place earlier this month and was first reported by the Times of Israel, which obtained a recording of the event hosted by the college’s Office of Student Inclusion Initiatives.
The imam let loose a series of remarks about Shariah law and “the filthy rich” before stating, “I came here to this event not knowing that I would be sitting next to a Zionist and this is something I’m not going to accept. My people are being killed right now in Gaza.”
He then added, “If you’re a Muslim, out of strength and dignity, I ask you to exit this room immediately.” Roughly 100 students followed him out the door, according to the report, and the chaplain hosting the event expressed disbelief.
“This is not dialogue — it is harassment,” the Anti-Defamation League’s New York chapter wrote on X. The chapter’s director Scott Richman called the incident “a truly disgusting display of raw antisemitism not only by the imam but by the huge crowd of people there for an interfaith event who followed him out
the door because a Jew was present.”
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul blasted the walkout as “antisemitism, plain and simple.”
Hochul’s Republican opponent in next year’s governor race, Rep. Elise Stefanik, called CUNY “a hotbed of antisemitism.”
CUNY said it was aware of the incident and was investigating.
German auction house calls off ‘shameless’ sale of concentration camp artifacts
An auction house in Germany canceled the sale of hundreds of items that belonged to Holocaust victims a day before it was set to take place, JTA reported.
The Felzmann auction house planned to offer 623 artifacts, including letters from concentration camps and documents detailing Nazi crimes, in the western German city of Neuss last week. After outcry from a Holocaust survivor group, the auction was canceled and its listing disappeared from the house’s website.
The auction was canceled shortly after being condemned by the International Auschwitz Committee, a group of survivors based in Berlin. The group’s executive vice president, Christoph Heubner, called the sale a “cynical and shameless undertaking” that left survivors “outraged and speechless.”
“Their history and the suffering of all those persecuted and murdered by the Nazis is being exploited for commercial gain,” Heubner said in a statement. He demanded the auction house cancel its event, saying the contents “belong to the families of the victims” and “should be displayed in museums or
Today in Israeli History
Dec. 1, 1932 — Palestine Post prints first edition
memorial exhibitions.”
Titled “System of Terror, Vol. II,” the catalog showed items dating from 1933 to 1945. The first part of a privately collected trove of Holocaust letters was sold by the auction house six years ago, according to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.
Many items came from the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps. A postcard from Auschwitz to Krakow in 1940 had a starting bid of $580, with a listing advertising the prisoner’s “very low inmate number” and their letter’s “very good condition.”
Other listings were expected to fetch much higher sums. A collection of 15 letters by a prisoner in the Ravensbrück camp started at $3,250. Another stash of letters between a Jewish family started at $14,000, described by the auction house as “rare” because “only a few Jews were alive” in 1943.
Beyond correspondence, the auction offered belongings such a yellow Star of David with “signs of wear,” three journal notebooks from an anonymous Polish Jew who survived the war, and identification documents of Jews who fled.
Mossad exposes Hamas terror plots across Europe
Israeli intelligence, in close cooperation with European authorities, has recently disrupted Hamas terror cells planning to target Jewish and Israeli sites across the continent, Jerusalem revealed last week, JNS reported.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, in a statement on behalf of the Mossad, said the disrupted cells were positioned to strike “on the day of command.”
Austrian security forces uncovered a weapons stash in Vienna in September containing pistols and explosives linked to Muhammad Naim, son of senior Hamas politburo member Bassem Naim, who is closely associated with top Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya.
As part of the investigation, it was revealed that the Naims met in Qatar in September.
The investigation is also examining the possible involvement of Hamas figures in Turkey in advancing terror attack plots, some of which have already been exposed.
Israel’s intelligence agency said Hamas has intensified efforts to build terrorist infrastructure in Europe since the Oct. 7 attacks, similar to Iranian proxy networks. The Mossad reports it is currently working to thwart dozens of planned attacks worldwide.
Tel Aviv launches new ‘Life Worth Living’ tourism campaign
The Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality has launched a new tourism campaign under the slogan “Tel Aviv: Life Worth Living,” highlighting the city’s resilience and vibrancy in the wake of Israel’s recent wartime trauma, JNS reported.
A video spot celebrates the city’s culture and nightlife with the line, “Every beat of music, every bright idea, every night out, every sunrise over the city – Tel Aviv, life worth living.”
Former government spokesman Eylon Levy promoted the campaign on social media, saying Israelis had “survived a near-death experience” and are now embracing life with greater passion, urging tourists to “come visit.” PJC
— Compiled by Toby Tabachnick
Items are provided by the Center for Israel Education (israeled.org), where you can find more details.
Nov. 28, 1945 — British report: Arabs keep selling land to Jews
The British Land Transfer Committee reports on the effectiveness of restrictions on Jewish land purchases under the 1939 White Paper. The panel finds that Arabs willingly have continued to sell land to Jews.
p A map from March 31, 1945, shows Jewishowned areas in red, while more than half the remaining land is state-owned or lacks title deeds.
Nov. 29, 1947 — U.N. approves partition
On a vote of 33-13 with 10 abstentions, the U.N. General Assembly passes Resolution 181, which calls for the partition of Palestine into separate Arab and Jewish states with an international status for Jerusalem.
Nov. 30, 1947 — Jews are attacked in Arab cities
The U.N. partition vote the previous day not only sparks violence between Jews and Arabs in Palestine — the first phase of Israel’s War of Independence — but also leads to riots against Jews across the Middle East.
The Palestinian Post, the precursor of The Jerusalem Post, prints 1,200 copies of its first, eight-page edition, designed to meet the demand for an English-language newspaper in Mandatory Palestine.
Dec. 2, 2010 — Carmel fire breaks out
Israel’s deadliest forest fire begins in the Carmel Mountains near Haifa when a teen discards a piece of charcoal outside the Druze village of Usfiyye. The fire consumes more than 8,000 acres and kills 44 people in four days.
Dec. 3, 1995 — Begin adviser
Shmulevitz dies
Matityahu Shmulevitz, a member of Lehi (the Stern Gang) and the director-general of the Prime Minister’s Office under Menachem Begin, dies at 75 one day after collapsing during a chess game in Tel Aviv.
Dec. 4, 2004 — Shinui leaves government
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon dismisses five Shinui lawmakers from his Cabinet because the secular party opposes his proposed budget. Shinui leader Tommy Lapid says the budget fails to cover basic needs. PJC
p Tommy Lapid expresses opposition to the proposed government budget during a Knesset debate Dec.
Headlines
Shalom Farms, almost a Jewish paradise
By Eric Lidji | Special to the Chronicle
In the outer reaches of Perry Highway in Wexford, where the addresses have five digits, there is a Taco Bell. Before it was a Taco Bell, it was a Burger King. Before it was a Burger King, it was where Dr. Jonas Salk lived while he worked on the polio vaccine.
If you visit the Taco Bell today, you will find a historical marker anchoring its parking lot, commemorating Salk’s work. According to the marker, while Salk was living at the site from 1947 until 1953, he used animals from the nearby Shalom Research Farms to test his vaccine. It is delightfully absurd to encounter the iconic Jewish word “Shalom” sharing this stretch of suburban sprawl with a purveyor of the cheesy gordita crunch.
Ben Paul Brasley established Shalom Farms on this land north of Pittsburgh at some point in the early 1940s. It was a working farm and later became his primary residence.
Brasley was a lawyer of a particular personality type: a private and somewhat eccentric Jewish bachelor whose chief creative outlet was philanthropy. (For other examples, see Abraham Lippman, Louis Little and Henry J. Goldstein.) The full story of Brasley’s life is too winding and wild for our purposes here, but I hope to return to him in the future.
Jonas Salk came to town from Ann Arbor in the late 1940s to work at the University of Pittsburgh. Having lived in the Michigan countryside, and preferring it, he settled in the rural outskirts of Pittsburgh. Brasley hired Jonas Salk’s brother, the veterinarian Dr. Herman Salk, to oversee the animal population at Shalom Farms. “I had charge of from 3,000 to 5,000 animals which included monkeys and mice,” Herman Salk later recalled. “They had to be in perfect health at all times or they could not be used in the polio serum tests.”
Counting the two Salk brothers, their families and Brasley, this unassuming patch of Pine Township farmland had no fewer than nine Jewish residents by the 1950 census. In a sense, their enclave was the earliest Jewish community in the northern suburbs, which is now the fastest growing segment of the Jewish population of western Pennsylvania.
Herman Salk moved to Palm Springs in 1954 and became a beloved veterinarian. The polio vaccine was released in 1955. Jonas Salk moved to La Jolla, California in 1964. With the vaccine finished, Shalom Farms had a supply of unused equipment and animals. For the next 20 years, Brasley sponsored a small laboratory, making blood samples available for scientific and medical research, often for free. (On the property today one can still find the grave for “Prince,” a presumably Jewish horse that died Apr. 9, 1965.)
During these years, Brasley increased his philanthropy. He watered the ground around his feet, focusing on the northern suburbs. He was among the leading donors for the new Passavant Hospital in McCandless Township. He gave land to the PineRichland School District for a high school
athletic field. He paid off the debt for the Mars Public Library.
Suburban development was climbing into the northern reaches of the county, including the first significant Jewish settlement in the area. A group of Jewish families started the North Hills Jewish Community Center in 1968. It incorporated in 1970 and spent the subsequent decade trying to raise funds and find property for a permanent synagogue.
In the mid-1970s, Brasley gave a portion of Shalom Farms to the North Hills Jewish Community Center. The property proved to be ill suited for new construction, lacking basic utility hook ups. The congregation ultimately purchased a former Assembly of God church on Duncan Avenue in 1979 and later sold the Shalom Farms property to pay down its mortgage. Around this time, the group changed its name to Temple Ohav Shalom.
Brasley left another section of Shalom Farms to the Hebrew Institute. The bequest included a clause requiring the organization to use the property within 90 days, and to use the property continuously without any gap longer than 90 days, or forfeit 50% interest to the United Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh. Brasley died in Aug. 15, 1981, which meant that the Hebrew Institute had to start using the property by Nov 13, 1981.
The High Holidays fell during that 90-day period, and so the Hebrew Institute fulfilled its initial obligation by constructing a sukkah on the property. It proposed a program of immediate projects including nature hikes, retreats and additional holiday celebrations.
By October 1981, the Hebrew Institute had developed an ambitious vision for Shalom Farms. For the “intermediate term,” it wanted to reopen its old day camp.
The Hebrew Institute had acquired Camp Kadimah in Evans City in 1958 but later sold the property. The proposed Shalom Farms day camp would accommodate Jewish campers each summer and would also host various adult Shabbatonim and Kallot throughout the year.
“Long-term” plans for Shalom Farms included a “Brandeis-type Institute” for immersive study, a “miniature Kibbutz,” a senior center and a national boarding Jewish high school.
The Hebrew Institute maintained continuous use of Shalom Farms by taking its summer camp to the property in 1982. Having met the terms of the will, a local Orphans Court judge awarded the Hebrew Institute free and clear title to the farm in December 1983. The following fall, the Hebrew Institute hired a full-time caretaker for the property.
Ron Brauner became the head of the Hebrew Institute in July 1985 and announced plans to use Shalom Farms for school programming. “Here we’d have programs for family education; Shabbat programs, retreats, Jewish summer camping; perhaps a model Kibbutz. We’ve identified many areas of development,” he told the Chronicle at the time.
That fall, the Hebrew Institute and the United Jewish Federation hired James P. Goldman of UDA Architects to conduct a feasibility study on the Shalom Farms property.
Shalom Farms was used sporadically over the next few years, but the Hebrew Institute was never able to achieve its greatest ambitions for the property. The 1980s were difficult years. Allegheny County lost nearly 10% of its population during the decade.
The United Jewish Federation reorganized local Jewish education in the late 1980s with the Joint Central Agency Task Force. It created the Jewish Education Institute in 1991 through the merger of the Hebrew Institute, the School of Advanced Jewish Studies, and Community Day School. As part of the merger, the United Jewish Federation sold the Shalom Farms property to Pine Township to clear outstanding Hebrew Institute debt. The township has since developed the property into a large and beautiful community park.
Earlier this summer, as a result of a scheduling mishap, I found myself reciting my morning prayers in Pine Community Park. As I was davening schacharis on a slight hillside overlook the park with its lake, its trails, its community center, its playground, and its bandstand, I felt gratitude for its beauty and sadness over the lost possibilities.
If the resources had been available in the 1980s, Shalom Farms today might resemble something like Adamah’s Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center in Connecticut — a beloved institution drawing a diverse Jewish population to our area for innovative programming. Instead, a different community has reaped those benefits for itself. PJC
Eric Lidji is the director of the Rauh Jewish Archives at the Heinz History Center. He can be reached at rjarchives@heinzhistorycenter. org or 412-454-6406.
p Pine Township takes pride in its connection with the polio vaccine and erected a commemorative plaque in 2013. Image courtesy of Rauh Jewish Archives
p Before the property was sold to Pine Township, Shalom Farms had a lakeside “manor” and barn. Image courtesy of Pittsburgh Jewish Newspaper Project
VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR
The Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle is proud to present the Volunteers of the Year for 2025. Their stories are incredibly inspirational. We hope you enjoy reading about the wonderful work these volunteers perform in our community.
Adat Shalom Synagogue
We proudly honor Marshall Dayan as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year. As board president, Marshall has led with dedication, revitalizing committees and strengthening our community. A longtime chair f the ritual committee, he is a steady presence at Shabbat services and Sunday minyan, often serving as gabbai and leading Shacharit during the High Holy D ays. Now retired, he is teaching fifth grade in our religious school, inspiring the next generation. Marshall’s commitment, humility, and deep love for our community embody the best of Adat Shalom. We are grateful for his service and are honored to recognize him as our Volunteer of the Year.
Beth El Congregation of the South Hills
Linda Kleinhans works quietly behind the scenes in ways that touch Beth El’s most senior congregants. She reaches out to members in need of friendship with regular phone calls through the acts of loving kindness committee. Through sisterhood, Linda also plans social activities for Beth El members who live at Concordia of the South Hills. Her work has led to close friendships with those around her. Linda can often be found helping others with shopping, t ransportation to medical appointments, and in-person visits. Beth El is strengthened by the gift of Linda’s time and talent that she willingly shares.
Beth Samuel Jewish Center Our Volunteer of the Year is Kenneth T. Frankenbery When Ken and his wife joined Beth Samuel in 2019, he immediately jumped in with both feet, from helping with building and grounds to leading our security committee. After becoming a Saturday morning regular, Ken converted to Judaism in 2023 and became a bar mitzvah shortly thereafter. He attends and volunteers for nearly every event. Ken retired three years ago after serving over 36 years with the Air Force. Instead of stepping back, he took on t he mantle of president in July. Ken has truly become an integral part of Beth Samuel!
The Branch
We proudly recognize Dr. Lorrie E. Rabin
A respected psychologist and community leader, Lorrie is dedicated to mental health advocacy and disability inclusion, which is vital to the people we serve. As a past president and member of the Jewish Residential Foundation board, Lorrie helped guide the organization through significant growth, program expansion, and rebranding. Lorrie continues to champion the Sally and Howard Levin Clubhouse, and support living programs and Jewish education efforts that serve more than 200 individuals and families. Lorrie’s clinical expertise, understanding of lived experience, and leadership have been invaluable to The Branch, where we are “Taking Inclusion to New Heights.” Thank you, Lorrie!
Chabad Jewish Center of
Campus–Pittsburgh. With unwavering dedication, Justin devotes his time and attention to checking in on Jewish students each day, ensuring they feel calm, safe, supported and cared for. His sensitivity to the unique needs of our students and his proactive awareness of campus dynamics make him an extraordinary ally. As a trusted liaison with the University, Justin consistently advocates for Jewish students by keeping us informed about campus events and helping us understand how those events may affect our community. His partnership strengthens our mission, and we are deeply grateful for the dedication and care he brings to our community.
Chabad of the South Hills
Ever since we met Yossi Rozenthal three years ago, he’s been a regular at Chabad of Cranberry. But Yossi doesn’t just attend. Yossi helps! Whether it’s building our sukkah, assembling the menorah at Cranberry’s municipal uilding, or delivering shmurah matzah, Yossi is always there, with a smile! Yossi also assists other community members in their time of need. We at Chabad of Cranberry truly appreciate his dedication, and May G-d bless him with the fulfillment of all his heart’s desires for the good!
Chabad Jewish Center of
Zale Levine a shining force within Chabad of Monroeville. Always ready to help, he brings unwavering kindness, a warm smile, and a sense of humor that lifts every room. Zale never waits to be asked, he jumps in, makes others feel valued, and constantly looks for ways to bring more volunteers into the “crew” circle. His spirit of inclusion and genuine kindness strengthen our community every single day. We are grateful and proud to honor him as our Volunteer of the Year.
Dr. Mark Grenadier is the true defini tion of a “mensch,” iving of himself with a generosity of spirit that touches every corner of Chabad. Whether he’s painting, repairing, or upgrading our new building at 1700 Bower Hill Road, or stepping up to sponsor an event or our weekly BLT (Bagels, Lox, and Tefillin), Mark treats Chabad with the same care and pride that he gives to his own home. A familiar face at services, he, along with his wife, Sheila — a past Volunteer of the Year — have brought countless moments of comfort to community members in hospitals and senior facilities. With deep gratitude, we are proud to honor Dr. Mark Grenadier as our Volunteer of the Year.
Chabad Young Professionals of Pittsburgh
Chabad House on Campus –
Officer Justin of the University of Pittsburgh Police Department has become an invaluable presence for Chabad on
in Pittsburgh and beyond. As a member of our annual dinner committee, she attends to every detail, so our honorees feel celebrated, and guests are inspired by our work to open minds and hearts. She has connected CWB with partners in Pittsburgh and Arizona, ensured our full inclusion in the 2023 Violins of Hope programming, and continually brings us new opportunities. She is a true friend who wants CWB to thrive.
Community Day School
Lisa Zeidner Marcus is an extraordinary leader whose dedication and generosity have made a profound impact on the CDS school community. A devoted CDS parent for many years, Lisa has a daughter in eighth grade and a son who graduated and now attends Shady Side Academy. As a valued member of our board of trustees and the chair of our development committee, she brings vision, passion and a steadfast commitment to strengthening CDS for today’s students and future generations. Her tireless efforts and unwavering belief in our mission inspire
Dr. Moshe Yaghoubian is a pillar of our community and the devoted co-gabbai of the CYP shul. His warm energy and friendly presence make everyone feel instantly welcome. Moshe brings thoughtful ideas that help shape our programs and a sincere, steady reliability that keeps everything running smoothly. Whether greeting people at the door, supporting services, or pitching in behind the scenes, he shows up with heart and humility. His creativity, kindness, and commitment strengthen CYP Pittsburgh in countless ways. Our community is brighter, warmer, and more connected because of him.
Classrooms without Borders
Sandy Rosen is an invalu able member of Classrooms Without Borders, generously giving her time to serve on commit tees, contribute thoughtful ideas, and strengthen our mission. Her steadfast commitment supports not only our team but communities
Congregation Beth Shalom
A Beth Shalom member since childhood, Robin embraces every volunteer opportunity to support her commuengage in Jewish life. Robin is always willing to lend a hand stuffing mailers, putting together Purim bags, being on the Havurah Committee, or helping in the kitchen to prepare breakfast for morning minyan. She is a devoted and active member of sisterhood, serving as the corresponding secretary, ensuring that messages of support and kindness reach those in need. From the synagogue’s kitchen to committee meetings, from organizing to supporting, she embodies the true spirit of volunteerism— finding joy in being needed and making a difference wherever she can.
Congregation Bet Tikvah
Kaitlyn Nuebel began volunteering for et Tikvah by playing the guitar for lay leaders who wanted accompaniment. While we still get to enjoy her musical skills at services, the work she does behind the scenes has grown to encompass so much more. By setting up equipment for every service and managing our tech employees and volunteers, she enables us to include those
Marshall Dayan
Dr. Lorrie E. Rabin
Yossi Rozenthal
Zale Levine
Linda Kleinhans
Kenneth T. Frankenbery
Officer Justin Reck
Dr. Mark Grenadier
Dr. Moshe Yaghoubian
Sandy Rosen
Lisa Zeidner Marcus
Robin Halpern
Kaitlyn Nuebel
Volunteers:
Continued from page 9
attending virtually. Her sense of humor brings much laughter to administrative meetings. Recently she has started taking on even more responsibilities, helping us navi gate social media and coordinating other musical volunteers.
Congregation Dor Hadash
Jim Silver played a vital role as a volunteer at Congregation Dor Hadash for almost a decade, serving at times as treasurer and finance committee member. He shepherded our finances through the difficult time after the 2018 synagogue attack and its impact on our congregation. Additionally, Jim tepped up to work with the four refugee families our congregation has sponsored. He became a trusted guide, helping them navigate state and federal benefits and taxes and ways to protect their financial information. While his efforts are not usually out front, his contributions have been integral to the life and vitality of Dor Hadash.
Congregation Kether Torah
VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR
Hebrew Free Loan Association of
We are proud to as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year. Even before joining the board in 2023, Jim jumped right in to plan
the new staff and bookkeeper to revamp the organization’s financial operations and move them online. Jim generously shares his expertise as a retired financial professional and former small business owner to support the organization’s growth in any way he can. When Jim isn’t working closely with staff and the board to provide financial stability and advance opportunities for people in our community, he is likely volunteering with Congregation Dor Hadash or spending time
Approximately eight years ago, Dina Capland noticed that the Kether Torah Shul was growing in numbers including families with children o f all ages. Without much fanfare, Dina started coordinating women and girls to supervise and lead the chil dren. Over the years, she has created a safe and warm environment with toys, Jewish books and other educational materials. You can see her in action every Shabbos and during the holidays praying, playing and directing the children in a positive manner.
team, to joining our daily Tefillah minyanim, to chaperoning trips to Washington, D.C. and New York, Tzvi is always ready to help. While Tzvi might jokingly claim that his “real” claim to fame is that his wife, Brittney, is our elementary school principal, in many ways the opposite is true. We rely on Tzvi every day to support so many of our programs, and his constant dedication is an essential part of our school community.
Hillel Jewish University Center
year at Rosh Hashanah. Michael donates his photography to our Friends All Around Silent Auction and leads a Walk4Friendship team. He knows every staff member by name and genuinely makes everyone feel valued and welcomed. While balancing his job at Bunny Bakes, he never misses a volunteer shift at the Friendship Circle. His commitment, warmth, and reliability make him truly exceptional — our circle wouldn’t be complete without him!
her first year as a speaker, she reached nearly 700 students and adults across Allegheny, Beaver, and Butler counties. Michelle shares her mother’s story as a indertransport survivor with wisdom and clarity, engaging audiences from middle school students and up. We are proud to recognize Michelle for her dedication to the
As a JAA board member emerE nid has given the Jewish Association on Aging countless hours of er community wisdom, problem solving skills and rational thinking, helping us through transitions, growth and change. Most recently, he has added a new “job” to her volunteer resume: a Mollie’s Meals driver and deliverer. This dynamic individual understands the vitality and far-reaching potential of the JAA on so many levels. Thank you, Enid, for your multi-faceted involvement. We are enriched
The Edward and Rose Berman Hillel Jewish University Center of Pittsburgh (Hillel JUC) congratulates exceptional s tudent leader volunteers Liv Shaw (Pitt student board
Julius Arolovich (CMU student board president last year and co-president this Dan Lehavi (CMU student board co-president). They have spent a significant amount of time as Hillel JUC ambassadors — engaging with other Jewish students, parents of Jewish students and university administrators. They have spent countless hours leading heir boards and planning amazing events so that Jewish college students could have Jewish experiences and a Jewish community. And they have done all of this while balancing rigorous academic schedules. Their dedication and efforts on behalf of Jewish students on their respective campuses have been remarkable, and we are grateful for their service.
Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh
Michelle Ultmann is one of the newest members of the Holocaust Center’s generations speakers’ bureau (children and grandchildren who share their families’ stories). She has already made a valuable impact. Just in 2025,
continue to inspire all of us at JCBA. Thank you, Bob, for all you do — for your time, your wisdom and your unwavering de dication to preserving Jewish heritage in Pittsburgh.
Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh
Amy Mallinger, a Squirrel Hill native and lifelong Tree of Life congregant, embodies the JCC’s mission and goals in her commitment and action against hatred. On Oct. 27, 2018, Amy’s grandmother, Rose Mallinger, was killed and her aunt, Andrea Wedner, was injured in the synagogue attack. As Amy healed, she realized the importance of speaking to students, so she helped form the REACH Speakers Bureau through the 10/27 Healing Partnership. Amy’s hope is that conversations about her grandmother, antisemitism and Judaism will help the high school students she engages with to enter adulthood carrying messages of acceptance, community and a commitment to take action against hatred of any kind.
Jewish Family and Community
Alan Gordon generously shares his time, leadership, vision and love of community with the Jewish Assistance Fund as a cherished volunteer. In his many roles over the years, he has been a devoted grantor, vice president and board member. We honor, celebrate, and appreciate his unwavering commitment to JAF. We count on him as we help the community navigate financial challenges and provide direct financial assistance weekly throughout the year. Alan has helped JAF increase economic security for so many in our Jewish community.
Jewish Cemetery & Burial Association of Greater Pittsburgh
We are proud to recogn ize Bob Katzen as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year. Bob’s d edication, wisdom, and deep commitment to Jewish co mmunal life embody the very essence of service and leadership.
As a longtime member of the JCBA b oard of directors and our board secretary for the past three years, Bob has de voted countless hours and boundless passion to our mission — helping guide JCBA’s development, strengthen our operations, and move the organization forward with purpose and vision. Bob’s leadership, compassion and commitment
Addison Hammond has been a dedicated and compassionate volunteer since June, 2024, while she was still in high school, making a meaningful impact across many areas of our work. From completing client satisfaction surveys to preparing welcoming hotel rooms for refugees, she’s shown that even small acts of service can create lasting change. Addison believes that “even the smallest bit of help is useful,” a mindset that has guided her through tasks like data entry, food deliveries and administrative support. Addison’s adaptability, warmth, and deep respect for others make her an invaluable part of our team. Her commitment to service and belief in opportunity for all truly embody the spirit of Volunteer of the Year.
Jewish Federation of Greater
Jane Rollman is the Federation’s 2025 Gerald S. Ostrow Volunteer of the Year. Jane is an exemplary volunteer who is passionate about the worldwide Jewish co mmunity. She serves as an officer on the Federation board of directors and as a member of the planning and impact committee. Jane served on the national young leadership cabinet and chaired the Young Adult Division, Women’s Division, and the Strategic Planning Committee. Pittsburgh is incredibly lucky to have a volunteer like Jane. We deeply appreciate the time, energy, and enthusiasm she brings to the Federation!
Friendship Circle
Michael Supowitz
Left to right: Liv Shaw, Julius Arolovich, Dan Lehavi
Michelle Ultmann
Enid Miller
Amy Mallinger
Jane Rollman
Addison Hammond
Alan Gordon
Bob Katzen
Jim Silver
Tzvi Friedman
Jim Silver
Dina Capland
Volunteers:
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Jewish Healthcare Foundation
Michael Ginsberg, brings to the Jewish Healthcare Foundation a rare blend of legal acumen, mentorship and visionary adership. A longtime advocate for education, quity and service, Michael has dedicated his career to guiding others by training lawyers worldwide and leading civic organizations. As JHF’s board chair, he inspires collaboration and strategic innovation, championing initiatives in patient safety, care for older adults, and workforce development. Michael’s steady leadership, generosity of spirit and commitment to empowering others embody the Foundation’s mission. JHF is deeply grateful for his contributions and his enduring vision for a healthier,
We are proud to nominate as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year in recognition of her exceptional work with esherKIDS. As a high school volunteer, Alia consistently shares her warmth, patience nd care, forming genuine connections and supporting both younger students and teachers with encouragement and respect. Her dedication shows in the thoughtful attention she gives to each student and in her willingness to help wherever needed. Our community is deeply blessed and grateful for Alia’s kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness.
everything run more smoothly. She not only gets things done with incredible reliability, but she supports others around her with a calm, can-do spirit that lifts the whole room.
Debby is also one of our greatest advocates in the community, proudly sharing OGK with her friends and family, and bringing new people into the kitchen to experience the joy of giving. Her commitment and enthusiasm have been essential in helping OGK grow, and we are honored to recognize her as Volunteer of the Year.
National Council of Jewish Women
Suzanne Schreiber has been a loyal and faithful volunteer with the NCJW Pittsburgh Children’s Room in the courts for many years. Suzanne truly “gets” human behaviors, especially children. If a child needs a nap, Suzanne can sense it and is our go-to person to help that child fall asleep and get needed rest. Suzanne is always willing to step up and give us an extra day if we need her. Suzanne’s consistent, empathetic attitude has been a true benefit to the children who have experienced things children should never have to witness. We are beyond grateful for Suzanne’s dedication to supporting NCJW Pittsburgh in caring for children and families.
Our Giving Kitchen
From the earliest days of Our Giving Kitchen, Debby Eisner has been a constant source of warmth, energy and dedication. Debby embodies the heart of OGK by showing up, jumping right in and quietly making
Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle
Anyone who Maureen Kelly Busis will not be surprised to learn that she also gives generously of her time nd talents to the Chronicle. Maureen collated and edited this Volunteers of the Year section as she has done in previous years. She is an auxiliary editor for the paper, sometimes informally in noticing errors and sometimes formally, as when she was with us at midnight in our offices putting to bed our first edition after the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting in 2018. Most weeks she shleps to make the bulk delivery of papers to the three JAA residential facilities. And, in a pinch, she has even helped with ad sales.
Rodef Shalom Congregation
We are honored to recognize Sabina Rosenfeld as our Volunteer of the Year. As a dedicated member of our community outreach and social action committee, Sabina coordinates and volunteers for numerous social action projects that extend b eyond our congregation in support of our wider community. She successfully leads our annual diaper drive benefiting the Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank, helps organize our fall sock drive, which provides local homeless shelters with their most requested item, and volunteers with ongoing initiatives in partnership with JFCS. Sabina, thank you for the lasting impact you continue to make on our community!
Sandy Rosen is a beloved pillar of the Pittsburgh community whose dedication to the Stand WithUs mission i s unwavering. She is consistently the first to volunteer at every opportunity, and that “never say no” attitude is just who she is.
Happy Thanksgiving
Alia Rapport
Suzanne Schreiber
Debby Eisner
Michael Ginsberg, JD
Maureen Kelly Busis
Sabina Rosenfeld
Sandy Rosen
Headlines
Volunteers:
Continued from page 11
Sandy doesn’t just show up; she puts her professional business expertise and respected community connections to use, ensuring our mission has a real, concrete impact. From successfully building the bridge between Violins of Hope and our Holocaust Education Center, to sitting on every planning committee, she is tirelessly dedicated. Her passion is unmatched, and she absolutely deserves this Volunteer of the Year honor.
VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR
our Temple Emanuel community, Howard volunteers to greet at Shabbat evening s ervices and organize yahrzeit plaques weekly to illuminate the names of those we are remembering. No matter what the project is, Howard can always be counted on to lend a helping hand. We are so thankful he is part of our community and we are proud to honor him with this recognition.
Temple Ohav Shalom
Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Temple Emanuel of South Hills proudly recog nizes H oward Friedman our volunteer of the year. As a member of our Temple Emanuel Retirees in Mitzvah Service (TERMS) group, Howard regularly volunteers to assist with food drive deliveries, set p events, and tend to Temple Emanuel’s gardens. Outside of TERMS projects, Howard also delivers sandwiches to the Washington City Mission for Temple’s monthly Team Sandwich program and even volunteered for last summer’s Maccabi Games! Within
Brian Kline has been a dedicated member f Temple Ohav Shalom since 1992. Over the years, he has taken n numerous leadership roles, including president of the men’s club, member-at-large on the oard, and, for the past six years, vice president of operations. Known for his steady presence and deep commitment to the congregation, Brian is also an active participant in the men’s club, and a Mason affiliated with Corinthian Lodge in the North Hills. A Penn State graduate with a B.S. in administration of justice, he brings decades of professional experience and a spirit of service to the life of the temple.
Temple Sinai
We are happy to honor Reesa Rosenthal!
Her warmth, dedication and joyful spirit shine through everything she does for our community. Reesa is a regular greeter at Shabbat and b’nei mitzvah services, always ready with a friendly smile and a warm welcome. Each month, she cooks and serves meals at East End Cooperative Ministry (EECM), showing care and kindness to our neighbors in need. She also serves as a shiva ambassador, offering compassion and comfort to congregants during difficult times. When Purim comes around, Reesa jumps right in — volunteering at the Purim carnival and performing in the Purim shpiel.
The Tree of Life
Andrew Stewart has been a steadfast community le ader in his commitment to rebuilding the Tree of Life. As a dedicated member of our board of directors, executive committee and construction committee, he has generously lent his expertise to help move construction forward on our beautifully redesigned, community-
centered building, which will begin in 2026. In the meantime, Andrew led the effort to build new offices for our staff, ensuring our work has a home as we await the permanent building’s completion. We are deeply grateful for his time, wisdom and the unwavering generosity he brings to our mission.
Yeshiva Schools
Two decades ago, Yosef Hashimi and his wife Tamar moved their family to join Pittsburgh’s Chabad community and to s end their six children to Yeshiva Schools. Ever since, Yosef has selflessly given of himself to benefit the Squirrel Hill community. In addition to coaching dozens of baseball and softball teams in Squirrel Hill Baseball, Yosef has served tirelessly on Yeshiva’s board of directors since 2020 and as Yeshiva’s treasurer since 2022. Yosef has spent countless hours bringing wisdom and reason t o the board’s decisions, improving Yeshiva’s fiscal discipline and financial forecasting, and displaying a special knack for resolving tough challenges. His contributions benefit Yeshiva beyond measure. PJC
Sabina Rosenfeld & Reesa Rosenthal
We appreciate both of YOU and all you do!
From all of us at your Rodef Shalom Congregation & Temple Sinai Family
Brian Kline
Howard Friedman
Reesa Rosenthal
Andrew Stewart
Yosef Hashimi
Jason Kunzman President and CEO
Merris Groff Chair of the Board
Headlines
Following that assignment, Lando spent time in the Narcotics and Vice unit beginning in 2005, including working a stint undercover. “I would go out and do drug buys,” he recalled. He was promoted to sergeant in 2007 before becoming a lieutenant in 2011. His final advancement occurred in 2014 when Lando became a commander. In the meantime, he earned a master’s degree in legal studies from the University of California.
While a lieutenant, Lando moved through most of the stations in the city.
“When you reach the rank of sergeant, you’re expected to be out on the street,” he said. “When you’re a lieutenant and commander, those positions have a lot of leeway, so if you want to be on the street and visible in the community, that’s your prerogative.”
Lando said he loved being in the community and with his officers, so he would go on calls from time to time.
It was that commitment to his team that led him to be one of the first officers to respond to the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting on Oct. 27, 2018.
Working as the citywide duty commander the morning of the attack, Lando had just left the hospital after visiting an officer involved in a car accident and was on his way home.
“I was passing through Squirrel Hill when the call came in,” he recalled. “They say everything happens for a reason. Under any other circumstance, I would have been at home in bed or drinking coffee and nowhere near the scene, not on duty, but I was coming back from an unrelated incident when the call came in.”
Lando was familiar with Tree of Life
Lando: Continued from page 1 Group: Continued from page 1
Following the protest, the group sent a letter to hearing board members who were deciding if the group should be disciplined. Pitt said SJP attempted to influence those deliberating on the case by distributing the open letter, which was signed by sympathetic students and faculty members.
The suspension was eventually lifted by a federal judge three weeks before it was scheduled to expire.
SJP has long accused the school and its administration of being complicit in genocide, an anti-Zionist trope that has gained momentum among pro-Palestinian groups on college campuses since Oct. 7.
It is unclear if Pitt invests money in weapons manufacturers with ties to Israel, meaning at least one of SJP’s demands and the question asked in the March referendum might be moot.
The demands by SJP are the latest salvo from the group, which has used the judge’s decision in the suspension case as confirmation that it has been persecuted by the university, and to take aim at Pitt's student government board, which it accused of inaction.
In an Instagram post titled “Addressing SGB’s inaction,” the anti-Zionist student group wrote that it met with SGB privately. According to the post, SGB told SJP it had no power to force the school’s administration to act on any position.
That last point was confirmed by university spokesperson Jared Stonesifer, who said in an email to the Chronicle that SGB is an
Congregation — it’s where he attended Hebrew school and celebrated his bar mitzvah, and his grandfather still attended Shabbat services there weekly. What he didn’t know at the time was that his grandfather stayed home sick that day.
Maryland. Even while there, he still thought of Pittsburgh and the city still remembered him. He was a finalist for Pittsburgh’s chief of police in 2022, but Mayor Ed Gainey eventually nominated Larry Scirotto, who resigned amidst controversy.
Lando believes in building relationships. Because of that, he said, community policing is imperative.
“Joyce [Fienberg] would pick him up every Saturday at the Maxon Towers and drive him to the Tree of Life where they would go to services,” Lando said. “That morning was the first I recall in 20 years, since my grandmother died, that he missed minyan. He told her, ‘I just can’t go today.’ She went to the synagogue and was killed.”
For Lando, the days immediately following the shooting were meaningful because the city came together.
“Now there is a very strained relationship, not just between Jews and Muslims or Democrats and Republicans, but every time you turn on the news there is division,” he said. “In 2018, people were dropping off food baskets or stopping by to say thank you to the police officers for being there and doing their jobs — running into that synagogue. And now we’re talking about defunding the police. It’s a weird feeling.”
While he wouldn’t want to relive the tragedy, Lando said the unity was heartwarming.
The veteran commander left Pittsburgh in 2020 to become the police chief of Frederick,
Earlier this month, Lando was nominated for the role of Pittsburgh’s police chief by incoming Mayor Corey O’Connor. Lando said it’s the only role for which he would leave Frederick, where he has a “supportive mayor and a city that truly loves and appreciates its police department.”
Lando is aware of tumult in his hometown’s police force and the possibility of City Council imposing a contract requirement for police chiefs. That doesn’t concern him because he isn’t viewing the job as a steppingstone or one he will give up anytime soon.
“I wouldn’t leave where I am now if I wasn’t serious about coming home and being in it for the long haul,” he said. “I want to try and get things turned around.”
His priorities include keeping the community safe, continuing the downward trend of violent crimes, dealing with the budget and equipment of the force, community relations and police wellness.
Lando believes in building relationships. Because of that, he said, community policing is imperative.
“independent, self-governing organization” that advocates for student interests, but “any action by the Student Government Board is independent of the University and should not be interpreted as an endorsement by the University.”
Included in SJP’s Instagram post are other demands of SGB. Those include:
• “Transparency and peer oversight in all of the university’s decisions towards us, the students.”
• A “public declaration of non-compliance with ICE on Pitt’s campus.”
• Publicly condemning the “continued violence and discrimination towards Muslim, Arab and Palestinian students on Pitt’s campus.”
Stonesifer said that the university has not received any reports of ICE activity on campus. It has issued guidelines online to the
“We have to be creative how we do it. We can’t lose those relationships,” he said.
And police mental health — which he championed in Frederick — must be a priority, he said. It’s something he believes can help with community relationships.
“When you see it break down, the root is often because officers are stressed and struggling — going through divorce, drinking too much, doing double shifts. If you put them in a situation where they have to handle a potential critical incident and they aren’t in a good frame of mind, aren’t healthy, those things tend to go sideways,” he said.
He is also intent on growing the force, which he acknowledged will take time and effort.
“That is not an overnight fix,” he said. “I told people I come with a big heart, a love of the job and strong work ethic, but I don’t come with a magic wand. It’s going to take a lot of work to get the staff where it needs to be, but one of the priorities is to get our police stations back to where there are no part-time police stations.”
Lando said he and O’Connor are “very much in alignment in our priorities and our visions for the city.”
The presumptive police chief, who will be moving to the South Side when he returns to Pittsburgh with his partner, Troy, said he plans on forging a strong relationship with the Jewish community, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh’s security team.
“We have a great relationship with our synagogues in Frederick, and I am confident that will happen in Pittsburgh,” he said. “As soon as I hit the ground running, we’ll start having meetings and getting everyone looped in. I look forward to that.” PJC
David Rullo can be reached at drullo@ pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
the allegations but said that the “safety and well-being of all our students and community members is a priority embedded in everything we do.”
Pitt also stressed that it is committed to helping ensure students feel safe and it investigates all reports affecting community safety.
During the November SGB meeting, SJP took umbrage that SGB previously made a statement against antisemitism, but has not made a similar statement condemning the alleged offense against the Palestinian student. SJP claimed that SGB told the group it was waiting to release a future resolution.
No matter the ongoing tension between SJP and SGB, Stonesifer said that Pitt is committed to ensuring “all of our students feel supported throughout their experience at the University.”
community about what to do if approached by officials from Immigration and Customs Enforcement or other government agencies.
The university also monitors changes in policies affecting international students, Stonesifer said, including visa processing and “global events that may impact international students’ ability to study in the United States and to providing support strategies based on evolving circumstances.”
As evidence of “continued violence and discrimination” at the university, SJP alleged that last year a “female Palestinian student” had her car vandalized by hate speech — a note threatening her and using slurs. SJP alleged that a “short investigation” found a student to be guilty of the offense but police and administration officials said “they did not care and would not take action.”
The university declined to comment on
Senior leaders in Pitt’s Student Affairs office meet regularly with students and student organizations throughout the academic year, Stonesifer said, noting that all registered student organizations are provided with equal resources and support.
SJP and Pitt are still involved in litigation, although the judge who reinstated the student group urged the pair to find an amicable, out-of-court resolution.
SGB President Marley Pinsky did not respond to the Chronicle’s request for an interview.
In an email, SJP’s faculty adviser, Mohammed Bamyeh, told the Chronicle he wasn’t on Instagram and was unaware of SJP’s demands. He did not respond to multiple requests for an interview. PJC
David Rullo can be reached at drullo@ pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
p Anti-Israel encampment at the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning on June 3, 2024
Photo by David Rullo
Headlines
Challah:
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attended several Challah for Change events. She said she and her friends have enjoyed them so much they’ve brought non-Jewish peers as well.
“We’ve taught them how to braid challah,” Friedel said.
The program’s openness is part of its appeal, Rothstein said. “Challah for Change is a space that a lot of people can come to — whether you’re Jewish or not — it’s a really welcoming environment for anyone on campus who wants to come and just create challah, buy challah and give back to the community.”
Betsy Tinsley, a Pitt student majoring in molecular biology, said she started participating after hearing about it from friends.
“I have a lot of fun doing it. I am not Jewish, so I never experienced this growing up,” she said. “A lot of my friends are Jewish, so it’s nice to see what this is like for them.”
Tinsley credited the recurring event with providing a “good opportunity to actually get involved in the community, and, just in general, with community service.”
Finland:
Students participate for various reasons: some because they enjoy ritual; some because they miss making challah with their
families; some because they’re interested in baking. Regardless of why they attend, students discover this is a “great opportunity
to hang out with friends and get a break from the monotony of the normal school day,” Feldman said.
The joy of braiding, baking and being together should be savored, she continued. Often, people fixate on the “negative things” that circulate about Jewish life on campus. As opposed to focusing on antisemitism or anti-Zionism, it’s nice for people to know that at Hillel JUC “we’re still doing programs, and we have both Jews and non-Jews who are in this building braiding challah and bringing this ritual of Jewish practice to our community.”
Before evening’s end, with fresh baked challahs cooling on a nearby table, Marcus remarked on the scene.
“One of the most impressive things about the Challah for Change community is that it meets the ethos of Hillel JUC,” Marcus said. “It is peer-led and it is peer-run with guidance and support from the staff. Students here are learning not just how to be leaders in the present, but how to be leaders in the future.” PJC
Adam Reinherz can be reached at areinherz@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
Continued from page 4
halacha (Jewish law), minhag (custom) and “choice of convenience.”
Votkin recalled hearing from individuals perplexed by seeing a woman shake a lulav on Sukkot.
“They didn’t know women can also do that,” she said. Similarly, some people regard tradition so strongly they believe having gefilte fish on Passover is akin to “lighting candles on Shabbat.”
Sofia of Finland
Sofia Freudenstein, an Orthodox-trained rabbi, arrived in Helsinki weeks before the recent High Holidays.
Hired by Helsinki’s Jewish Community as its director of Jewish Life and Learning, Freudenstein, 27, quickly discovered the haziness between custom and law.
D uring Shabbat morning services, a chazzan employed tunes typically reserved for Rosh Hashanah in North American synagogues; it happened week after week. Whereas some communities apply melody to connote meaning and differentiate the seasons, she said, there isn’t that “nuance” here.
Freudenstein identified another oddity involving Birkat HaMazon, a post-meal blessing. In Helsinki, she said, community members conclude the text by singing “Oseh Shalom,” as if the verse is part of the prayer.
For months, Freudenstein has worked with Votkin, Czimbalmos and others to enhance Jewish knowledge.
She aided in the publication of “Birkon & Shiron,” a booklet of passages typically recited during Shabbat meals (“Oseh Shalom” is printed at the end of Birkat HaMazon).
The text ensures “learning possibilities are available for everyone — even in Finnish — even if they never come to shul,” Votkin said.
Half Hebrew, half Finnish transliteration, the booklet allows users to recite Kiddush, make Havdalah or read Hebrew without embarrassment. Even among those who attended the Jewish school, “there’s some kind of shame” in not knowing how to perform certain practices, she continued. “Birkon & Shiron” reminds Finns “Judaism is something that belongs to all of us — we own it, it’s our thing,” and with that understanding comes
acceptance of the past.
“What has been, has been,” Votkin said. “Now we think about the future, what we can do now.”
With the community’s headquarters, school and synagogue under the same roof, Freudenstein organized a Shabbat dinner, shortly after her arrival, for staffers. Along with a brief service and meal, professionals
dinners, Freudenstein started filling other gaps — even among a highly knowledgeable group.
Finland is touted for its educational system. Along with a commitment to ensuring developmentally appropriate instruction, Finnish teachers are required to have master’s degrees and pedagogical proficiency.
often afforded similar respect. One challenge, several Finnish teachers mentioned, though, was limited access to materials as few Jewish texts are available in Finnish.
After a teacher asked Freudenstein why people cover their eyes when saying “Shema,” Freudenstein created a source sheet with answers. The school teacher then translated it into Finnish for students.
Though Freudenstein was hired to deepen the community’s understanding, she’s been among its biggest learners.
“I think that a lot of people would maybe look at a community like this and say, ‘I should just make aliyah, or I should go move to New York City,’ but actually, living in a smaller Jewish community might actually be better for one’s observance,” she said. “When we’re in a North American Jewish community, there’s just so many things we take for granted as not being changeable. I think a community like this throws all that into question.”
Communal practices here aren’t simply a testament that “European Jewish life is possible, and not dead,” she continued. Residents’ varied undertakings are global reminders to consider one’s communal involvement: “Here’s a model.”
Helsinki hum
Speaking over the buzz of nearby activities, Votkin said she dreams of growth.
Speaking with Classrooms Without Borders travelers, teachers from Helsinki’s Jewish school described their venerated profession and admitted surprise that U.S. educators, especially within Jewish day schools, are not
Whether through the choir, prayer, buying a fresh frittata or any other avenue, Finns need greater engagement. But isolated involvement isn’t the point, she said. “I just want to encourage people to take initiative, to take responsibility, and to learn and enjoy Jewish culture — we have an amazing culture.”
Belonging to this community, and the Jewish people, changes every member. “If you’re just a customer, you can always complain that you don’t get enough services,” she said. “When you become an owner, you have to give something from yourself — you have to invest money, and time, energy and ideas — and then it becomes your own.”
A cooperative of 1,000 co-owners is “possible if we work toward it and we verbalize what we want,” Votkin said. That’s the key to connection “as a community and to the wider Jewish world.” PJC
Adam Reinherz can be reached at areinherz@pittsburghjewishchronicle.org.
p University of Pittsburgh students Amelia Morrison and Mackenzie Hoskinson help in the kitchen during a Nov. 13 Challah for Change event. Photo by Adam Reinherz
p Rabbi Sofia Freudenstein stands outside a Finnish coffeehouse. Photo by Adam Reinherz
p Community members pray in Helsinki, Finland.
Photo by Adam Reinherz
Time for the UN to salvage its credibility
The United Nations is in the midst of a profound crisis of legitimacy.
Nothing has more starkly illuminated this institutional decay than recent public comments made by Reem Alsalem, the U.N. special rapporteur on violence against women and girls. The comments were so reckless and so corrosive that they demand a decisive response from Secretary-General António Guterres and the world body he leads.
Earlier this month, Alsalem took to social media to cast doubt on the sexual violence, torture and gender-based crimes that survivors, investigators, journalists, medical personnel and multiple U.N. bodies have documented in connection with the Hamas-led terrorist attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Her post did not merely misinterpret the evidence. It flatly contradicted it and denied its existence.
This wasn’t a subtle disagreement between experts. It wasn’t a cautious request for further data. It was a public repudiation of a finding the United Nations itself has already codified.
In the latest annual report on conflictrelated sexual violence issued by the Secretary-General, Hamas is explicitly listed among parties credibly suspected of perpetrating patterns of sexual violence during and after the Oct. 7 atrocities. That designation is
echoes the tactics long used to silence victims of sexual violence: gaslighting, delegitimizing, casting doubt where the facts are already painful and clear. Survivors like Amit Soussana and Mia Schem, who spoke publicly about the brutality they endured in captivity,
The longer this silence continues, the more it signals a harrowing message: that the United Nations is willing to tolerate denialism when the victims are politically inconvenient.
not handed down lightly; it reflects extensive review of information and witness testimony, and an assessment that grave concerns exist regarding sexual violence committed by members of the organization.
For a U.N. special rapporteur on violence against women to dismiss these findings is not only indefensible. It is shameful and signals a contempt for the international body’s own standards. It directly undermines victims and survivors who have displayed unimaginable courage in recounting their experiences. And it tears at the already fraying fabric of trust that the world places in the human rights mechanisms of the United Nations.
Most disturbingly, Alsalem’s rhetoric
or Ilana Gritzewsky, who briefed the Security Council earlier this year, deserve a U.N. advocate who listens and not one who erases them.
This is not merely poor judgment but a breach of mandate. Special Procedures mandate holders are bound by a Code of Conduct that requires impartiality, accuracy, respect for victims and strict adherence to U.N. standards. Alsalem’s recent statements run counter to these obligations in both letter and spirit. Her pattern of commentary raises legitimate and concerning questions about bias. These are questions that now jeopardize the integrity of the very mandate she is entrusted to uphold.
For Guterres, this is a moment of truth.
The United Nations cannot continue insisting it stands with all survivors of conflict-related sexual violence while allowing one of its own senior experts to publicly contradict official findings and demean victims whose suffering the institution itself has acknowledged. The contradiction is morally obscene.
Alsalem cannot represent women and girls anywhere after these disgraceful remarks. The United Nations must initiate a process to replace her with someone capable of restoring the neutrality, professionalism and integrity that this mandate demands.
The mandate on violence against women and girls is too important to be entrusted to someone who undermines survivors and contradicts the agency’s own documented findings. The secretary-general must act. The longer this silence continues, the more it signals a harrowing message: that the United Nations is willing to tolerate denialism when the victims are politically inconvenient.
The world is watching. Survivors are watching. Unless decisive action is taken now, the United Nations will once again demonstrate that its greatest enemy is its own failure of moral courage. PJC
Ambassador Danny Danon is Israel’s permanent representative to the United Nations. This article was first published on JNS.
We won’t win a war for Jewish identity with press releases
perfect storm, just beginning to endanger us.
All of them converge on the same goal: weakening, confusing and ultimately erasing the Jewish people as a confident, unified nation.
We need to stop comforting ourselves with euphemisms. We are not facing a “surge in antisemitism.”
We are living through a war on the Jewish people — a sustained, coordinated, multi-front assault on Jewish identity, Jewish legitimacy and the very idea of the Jewish nation.
This war is coming at us from all directions: the jihadist world that targets us physically with war and ongoing terror; the political left that rationalizes and amplifies those attacks; and elements of the far right that recycle ancient conspiracies against the Jews and Zionists. All of them feed off each other. It is the
with sympathetic officials. All good and necessary, but painfully insufficient.
Those organizations are preparing for skirmishes while we face a full-blown
We are not merely survivors.
We are the only ancient indigenous people to return to our ancestral homeland as sovereigns, rebuilding our national life in full view of history.
And yet, tragically, the Jewish organizations that claim to be defending us do not grasp the scale or nature of this moment.
Most major Jewish institutions are still operating with a mindset suited to the late 20th century. They issue statements, commission reports, host conferences and request meetings
A tale of two goals
I’m not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but this past year, there were two goals that I set my sights on achieving.
I wanted to do a pull-up.
And I wanted to finish watching “Gilmore Girls” with my daughter.
Both of these goals required hours of
commitment, of showing up, even when I was tired, when there was laundry to fold, or more scholarly goals to pursue. I’ll admit that there were times when I thought I should just give up, moments when my ambition so exceeded my abilities that I felt like a fool for even trying.
But I am thrilled to report that with roughly five weeks to go until the end of the calendar year, my girl and I watched the final episode of Season 7. Oh, the sweet rewards of perseverance and tenacity.
And while I proudly accept your sincere esteem for my admirable sticktoitiveness, I
ideological and spiritual war against us. We cannot win a war of identity with press releases.
We cannot counter a generational propaganda machine by “raising awareness.” And we cannot defeat a movement that delegitimizes Jewish existence by continually defending our right to exist.
will also share that my pull-up is still stubbornly lacking in its up
When I started going to the gym over a year ago, I was able to hang on the bar and let my feet dangle in a manner that no one would refer to as impressive. After a few months of this, I graduated to swinging my feet erratically while making unattractive noises. And today, I can pull myself about a fraction of an inch toward the bar twice in a row before passing out on the gym floor. Turns out that perseverance and tenacity are lying creeps who tease you into thinking you can do stuff if you just continue showing up. Jerks.
Defense alone is a losing strategy. The Jewish people cannot afford to be perpetually reactive. Too many Jewish organizations cling to a deeply flawed strategy: focusing almost exclusively on Holocaust education, memorial programs and museum visits as the antidote to antisemitism. But this well-intentioned approach has become counterproductive. It reduces Jewish identity to victimhood, unintentionally reinforcing the very narratives our enemies exploit, portraying Jews as weak, traumatized and perpetually on the defensive. Instead of empowering Jews, it empowers antisemites by centering our people around suffering rather than strength. What we should be promoting is the opposite: the extraordinary Jewish story of the 20th century, victory, resilience and purpose. We are not merely survivors. We are the only
I like going to the gym. It’s social, it gives structure to my week, and I hear that it can be rewarding. Though it’s often hard to hear the people who are saying this over my own unattractive sounds. It is motivating, if not exceedingly humbling, to never be the strongest or fastest person in the room. Sometimes I start gym-karaoke just to feel better about myself. And while my rendition of “Livin’ on a Prayer” is tight, it’s not enough to get my head above that bar.
I also love the challenge of trying to win
Guest Columnist
Danny Danon
Guest Columnist
Avi Abelow Guest Columnist
Kally Rubin Kislowicz
Chronicle poll results: Epstein files
Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an online poll the following question: “Are you interested in the content of the Epstein files?” Of the 302 people who responded, 61% said yes; 20% said no; and 19% said marginally. Comments were submitted by 86 people. A few follow.
I’m interested in people being held accountable. I’m also interested in not having to hear about this anymore.
I’m about as interested in the contents of the Epstein files as I am in seeing how sausages are made. It nonetheless behooves us all, as American citizens, to know as much as possible about the kinds of people our president likes to pal around with, which in turn tells us about the kind of person he is.
I think this issue is moot and should be left private. It is a waste of government time. The time could be spent on other important issues such as health care/insurance. It will do nothing but open Pandora’s box.
ancient indigenous people to return to our ancestral homeland as sovereigns, rebuilding our national life in full view of history.
The Jewish story today is one of unparalleled moral courage and civilizational contribution. That is the narrative that should define us. That is what inspires. That is what disarms hatred. And that is what Jewish organizations must champion if we want to shape a confident, thriving Jewish future.
Not embarrassment about returning and resettling our ancestral lands in Judea and
praise from the gym instructors. They walk around the room while I jump on and off boxes, swing kettlebells in the air, and dangle erratically, all while hoping that they will say something, anything, that will make me feel like I’m not the hottest of all the messes.
So far the closest I’ve gotten is, “Kally, I think you should try a scaled down version of this exercise.” But man if that doesn’t sound almost like approval …
When I have exhausted myself at the gym, I go home to soothe my tired muscles and aching ego on the couch with the iconic Lorelai and Rory Gilmore. My daughter and I began the noble pursuit of watching “Gilmore Girls” years
It is appropriate and necessary to consider the character of our leaders and luminaries. When public figures participate in cruel and criminal activity in private, we should
Samaria, but pride.
What we are confronting is deeper than politics or policy. It is a battle over meaning, purpose and narrative.
Our enemies are not just attacking Jewish bodies or Jewish institutions; they are attacking the core idea of the Jewish nation, our moral mission, our historic connection to our land, and our role as a source of ethical and spiritual light. They seek to make young Jews feel ashamed of their heritage, estranged from their people and confused about the most basic truths of our history. This is how civilizations are dismantled, through identity erosion.
This is why the growing Jew-hating anti-
reconsider whether they are the best people for their positions of influence and authority.
Yes, because I want the focus to be on the victims — the girls who were exploited, groomed and raped — getting justice. I want every rapist, regardless of their wealth and connections, to be held accountable for their horrific actions.
I don’t think we’ll ever see the real information.
Anyone who has paid attention to these predators for the past 20 years already knows the extent of the damage done to the trafficked girls. I would like it made public that our so-called “esteemed” men such as Prince Andrew, Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, etc., were busy getting away with this kind of abuse for years. #MeToo, like it or not, changed the milieu somewhat. Yes, name them.
What a sad commentary on our times that we are even facing this. And to add horror to the disgust is the perpetrator was Jewish.
semitism will not simply fade with time, elections or new campus policies. It will intensify because spiritual wars do not end through diplomacy. They end when one side is confident in its story, its values and its future.
The greatest strategic error Jewish leadership makes is assuming that the best response to hatred is explanation. It is not. The best response is unapologetic Jewish strength, rooted in purpose, identity and truth.
We must remind Jews everywhere that we are not a random ethnic group asking for tolerance. We are an ancient nation with a mission: to bring moral clarity, spiritual wisdom and justice into a confused world,
As I reflect back on the year, I think that a celebration of both my successes and my works-in-progress is in order.
ago. With relative consistency, we made time once or twice a week to sit and watch together. We debate the merits of various plotlines and male suitors. We cringe as characters make bad decisions. After an hour of feeling inferior at the gym, it feels extraordinarily good to judge others for their hot messiness.
As I reflect back on the year, I think that a celebration of both my successes and my works-in-progress is in order. I am planning a “Gilmore Girls” siyum (completion ceremony)
Decades of guidance from a true master coach
Coach Al Rose was not only the masterful coach of the JCC Sailfish for nearly 70 years; he also was the coach of the JCC Masters for over 50 years (“Still on deck: At 87, Coach Al Rose finds joy in every stroke,” Nov. 14).
For more than 40 years I have benefited from his coaching, attention to detail, psychology and social awareness. Adam Reinherz’s article was excellent as always, and skillfully described the comprehensive excellence of Coach Rose. Of course, Coach Rose is still coaching. It is in his soul. He is a master in every sense of the word.
David S. Pollock Pittsburgh
You have to wonder if the files were adulterated before release to protect or expose some falsely.
I would like to be able to finally know who is implicated and to what degree. Perhaps we can, as a country, have some closure. Maybe this will be less interesting once it is in the rear view and we can get on with more important issues facing our country.
If there are people who participated knowingly in the trafficking of underage girls, they should be prosecuted. But I think as a matter of interest, it’s overheated as a form of salacious entertainment, not justice.
Sunlight is the best disinfectant! PJC
— Compiled by Toby Tabachnick
Chronicle weekly poll question: Did you or will you discuss politics over Thanksgiving? Go to pittsburghjewishchronicle. org to respond. PJC
from our ancestral homeland. This truth has sustained us for millennia, and it is precisely this truth that our enemies fear most. History is painfully consistent. Every society that normalizes Jew-hatred eventually tears itself apart. Supporting the Jewish people is not merely an act of solidarity. It is an act of civilizational self-preservation. This war is real. It is here. And it is only the beginning. The Jewish future depends on how we choose to respond. PJC
Avi Abelow is host of the “Pulse of Israel Show” and CEO of 12Tribe Films Foundation. This article was first published on JNS.
where my daughter and I will go to a coffee shop and say witty things to each other at a very fast pace. Then I will take her to a local park and show her how little I have accomplished in the pull-up department. I might even hum a few bars about how Tommy used to work on the docks. She will cringe at my unattractiveness, and she will pretend with frightening conviction that she is not wildly proud of me.
I don’t know what this coming year has in store. My goals include spending less time
worrying about Iran and more time doing gym karaoke. I hope to find a new series to watch with my daughter. I will pursue the pull-up and continue seeking that ever elusive praise from the gym instructors. It’s good to have a range of goals; some attainable, some in need of a scale-down. Because there is nothing as unattractive as aimlessness (This is false! You can be as unattractive as you set your mind to. I believe in you!).
My boy Bon Jovi already told me that I’m halfway there, and that definitely sounds like approval. PJC
Kally Rubin Kislowicz grew up in Pittsburgh, and made aliyah from Cleveland to Efrat in 2016. This article was first published on The Times of Israel.
Life & Culture
Homestyle cornbread
By Jessica Grann | Special to the Chronicle
There is never a bad time of year to whip up a pan of cornbread. It’s always well received at barbecues, but I especially like it in the autumn and winter. Cornbread is just the thing to accompany Thanksgiving leftovers or a hot bowl of chili. My recipe is nondairy/pareve, but nobody can tell it’s missing butter and dairy milk. Over the years I played around quite a bit to get the soft, fluffy consistency just right.
This recipe only takes 5 minutes of prep time and can be mixed in one bowl by hand. It’s so easy to make from scratch that you’ll never need to buy a mix at the store again.
Growing up, I always added butter or honey to my cornbread, but there’s no need with this recipe since it’s slightly sweeter than your average cornbread and the crumb is moist and fluffy.
Ingredients
Serves 9-12, depending on the size you cut the squares
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup cornmeal
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
line it in one direction with parchment paper. The parchment paper allows you to grab the edges and lift the cake easily out of the pan.
Lightly whisk one egg plus one egg yolk with a fork before adding it and the oil to the bowl.
Mix well by hand with a spatula until the oil is fully incorporated into batter.
Allow this to rest on the counter for 10 minutes. I enjoy the grainy texture of cornbread but some recipes are a bit too dry for my taste. This bit of rest allows the cornmeal to soak up some of the liquid and the end result is a cakey texture.
Once the bowl has rested, pour the mixture into a prepared pan. Tap the pan a few times against the counter to allow any air bubbles to release before baking the cornbread for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Be careful not to overbake. The edges should shrink slightly from the sides of the pan. You can start checking on this about 25 minutes into baking.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven to cool.
Preheat your oven to 350 F and place the wire rack in the center.
Use an 8- or 9-inch square metal or glass pan for baking. Lightly grease the pan and
Add the flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt to a large bowl and whisk to combine. Stir in the sugar and your choice of vegan milk. I’m partial to unsweetened oat creamer, which is thicker and works well in place of whole milk for richness.
After 15 minutes, lift the bread out of the pan using the parchment paper and set on a cutting board. You can cut and serve this warm or set it aside for later.
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Enjoy and bless your hands! PJC
Jessica Grann is a home chef living in Pittsburgh.
p Homestyle cornbread
Photo by Jessica Grann
Life & Culture
491 days in Hamas’ hands
By Jeffrey Spitz Cohan | Special to the Chronicle
Has any book made a bigger splash in a shorter time in the Jewish world that Eli Sharabi’s “Hostage”?
Rushed into production and bookstores just four months after Sharabi’s release from captivity in Gaza, “Hostage” sold 100,000 copies faster than any Hebrew-language book in history.
The English translation arrived in the U.S. just six weeks ago and almost immediately appeared on a New York Times best-seller list. Within weeks, several Jewish friends had recommended the book to me, describing it as “compelling” and “impossible to put down.” Now I’m recommending it to others.
Why are so many people in both Israel and the English-speaking Diaspora reading and talking about “Hostage”?
I sense that Sharabi has tapped into a deep wellspring of Klal Yisrael. Not perfectly and probably not even intentionally, Sharabi has given voice to the trauma and pain we all feel to varying degrees in our post-Oct. 7 world, and that our Pittsburgh community has felt ever since Oct. 27, 2018.
In writing “Hostage,” I doubt that Sharabi sought to make himself an agent of healing for the community at large, even if he finds himself cast in that role. Rather, it seems his objective was simply to highlight the importance of Pidyon Shvuyim , the Torah mandate to free captives.
Among the 251 people kidnapped by Hamas, Sharabi was uniquely suited to write this book. His story pulled our heartstrings like no other. As you might recall, only after his long-overdue release did he discover that his wife and two daughters were among those murdered on Oct. 7.
Sharabi is not only the perfect person to write a book because of his tragic circumstances. As it turns out, he is also a fine writer.
“Hostage” is written with an extreme economy of language. Whether it’s attributable to Sharabi’s voice or an editor’s ruthlessness, the spare style is a perfect fit for the content. What happened to him was bad enough. There was no need to embellish or adorn his experiences.
He describes his 491 days of harrowing captivity in stark detail. He spent most of that time shackled, hidden inside Hamas tunnels. As you read about the deprivation, darkness, squalor, humiliation, hunger, pain and fear he and his fellow
captives suffered, you can’t help but wish that Israel had secured their freedom much sooner.
That said, if you’re expecting a critique of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza operation, you’ll be sorely disappointed. He doesn’t weigh in on the controversy, one way or the other.
But he does freely express his disdain for Hamas, which is obviously justifiable. Sharabi was never in danger of contracting Stockholm Syndrome. He viewed his captors as brainwashed barbarians. Yes, there were moments, here and there, of humanity, but only when a Hamas operative was alone with the captives. When among their fellow terrorists, the captors were cold and cruel.
In our current political climate, I found his contempt for Hamas and his unapologetic Zionism to be refreshing. For his first public appearance after his release, Sharabi draped himself in an Israeli flag.
Make no mistake: Sharabi is a liberal Zionist, like me and like so many of us. In this country, when speaking or writing about the conflict, we have to carefully measure every word, for fear of provoking an anti-Zionist backlash among our erstwhile allies on the left. As a survivor of a terrorist attack and of prolonged captivity, Sharabi has many burdens to bear, but having to sideline his Zionism isn’t one of
them, thankfully. You can’t help but feel heaping amounts of sympathy and admiration for Sharabi. His mental strength and will to survive were inspiring.
He is not trying to emulate Victor Frankl, the Holocaust survivor whose experience in a concentration camp became the basis of “Man’s Search for Meaning,” a mega-selling self-help book.
But readers are free to derive their own life lessons from Sharabi’s experience.
In “Hostage,” he recalls the moment when his captors moved him from a house to the tunnels. For good reason, he desperately wanted to stay above ground. Standing at the lip of a tunnel entrance, he thought about resisting, but he knew that he would be shot and killed if he didn’t comply. So down into the tunnels he went.
Even in that dire situation, though, Sharabi recognized that he was making a choice. In this case, a choice to survive another day. In our own lives, in our own far less dire situations, we always have a choice, too. Thank you, Eli, for the reminder.
No one can begrudge the success Sharabi has experienced with his first book. He has paid a horrible price, but he has squeezed from his suffering at least a few drops of redemption.
Buying this book, reading this book and talking about this book can be our own modest contribution to Sharabi’s mission to elevate Pidyon Shvuyim in our collective Jewish consciousness.
The Chronicle Book Club will discuss “Hostage” on Dec. 7 on Zoom. To get the registration link, email drullo@pittsburgh jewishchronicle.org. PJC
Jeffrey Spitz Cohan lives in Forest Hills and writes on Substack at inalignment. substack.com.
p Released hostage Eli Sharabi reunites with his mother Chana and sister Osnat at an army facility near the Gaza border after 491 days in Hamas captivity, Feb. 8, 2025. His wife and two daughters were murdered by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7, 2023.
Photo courtesy of the IDF
Life & Culture
Jewish Community Legacy Project guides congregations through sustainability, mergers and last chapters
need for an organization that could help demographically challenged congregations all over the country.
congregations in how best to spend leftover funds, including those from the sale of their synagogue.
By Deborah Weisberg | Special to the Chronicle
When the heartrending decision was made to close Temple Hadar Israel — Lawrence County’s last synagogue — the congregation turned to a Georgia-based nonprofit for help in navigating the emotional as well as logistical challenges.
The Jewish Community Legacy Project spent two years guiding the congregation through its transition from a bricks-and-mortar entity to a far-reaching philanthropic presence.
“The goal is to keep Jewish life vibrant in Lawrence County and beyond,” said congregation past President Sam Bernstine, 69, of the scholarships and social service programs that define Hadar’s legacy locally and in Israel.
“JLCP was so holistic in their approach. There was no ‘doom and gloom’ about shutting things down. It was a realistic and optimistic planning for the future, and it happened in stages.”
It also was done with sensitivity, given Hadar’s 130-year-old roots.
“Closing is such an emotional roller coaster you need a neutral third party to help you make the best, rational decisions,” Bernstine said. “It’s not a complex process, but it can be difficult.”
Several western Pennsylvania synagogues, in Jefferson Hills, Latrobe, Monessen, Oil City, Uniontown and White Oak, sought JCLP’s guidance through their final chapters.
Others currently are receiving help to stay open, whether through reorga nizing, downsizing or merging. They are in Ambridge, Bradford, Butler, Carnegie, DuBois, Eastmont, Erie, Greensburg, Indiana, Johnstown, Meadville, Washington, White Oak (Gemilas Chesed), and Pittsburgh (Young People’s Synagogue).
“We meet congregations where they are,” said Bernstine, who is now president of the JCLP board. “We work to extend life until it’s not sustainable.”
JCLP was founded in 2010 by David Sarnat, retired president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, who saw the
“We work exclusively with small congregations, one on one,” said JCLP president and CEO Noah Levine, of Marietta, whose staff includes three part-time planners.
In 2017, 89 congregations across the country sought JCLP assistance. Since then, the number has nearly tripled.
“Some want help with sustainability. Some have a specific request, like where to donate their Torahs,” Levine said. “And some will tell us ‘We know we have to close but we don’t want it to be chaotic. We want the dissolution to be done in a respectful, planned way.’”
Besides helping congregations define action steps, JCLP provides follow-through “so the burden of implementation is not solely on the congregation,” Levine said.
Tasks include donating important documents and other items to the Rauh Jewish Archives at the Heinz History Center or the American Jewish Archives in Cincinnati, finding new homes for Torah scrolls and other sacred items, and guiding
“We suggest setting up endowments that reflect the congregation’s values, whether it’s supporting a food bank or sending kids to Israel,” Levine said. “Recycling assets perpetuates the congregation’s legacy and helps Jewish communities going forward.”
An important consideration is the perpetual maintenance of graveyards.
“Most synagogues in small towns have cemeteries, and so there’s often the question, who will take care of them,” said Jeff Finkelstein, president and CEO of Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, which has partnered with JCLP and the Jewish Cemetery and Burial Association of Greater Pittsburgh to ensure that funding is available for preservation and care.
Western Pennsylvania, with its historical proliferation of small towns, has served as a blueprint for JCLP’s mission, said Finkelstein, who is a member of the JCLP board.
“Given the number of small Jewish communities in our region, we are a model
for what JCLP can do in the rest of the country to keep struggling synagogues afloat. When the time comes to think about legacy, Noah and the team at JCLP work with congregations in a beautiful way.”
With encouragement from JCLP, Parkway Jewish Center in Eastmont found an unconventional way to sustain itself and even attract a couple of new members.
The congregation sold its building to lease space in an office complex at Penn Center West that includes a worship area with Torah ark, access to extra room for High Holiday services, and a small kosher kitchen. The congregation also is permitted to set up a sukkah.
“Noah guided us through uncharted waters,” said the congregation’s President Lynda Heyman. “He has a sweet demeanor … never telling us what to do … but making suggestions and acting as a sounding board as we explored multiple options.”
In Washington County, Marilyn Posner began working with JCLP a decade ago in her role as president and legacy chair of Beth Israel Congregation.
“We’re both sustaining and dissolving,” said Posner, of what has been a gradual process involving the sale of the synagogue and rabbi’s residence, and the particularly painful disbursement of artifacts and artwork.
“I knew in my heart that all these objects would continue to live; they just weren’t going to live here. That was very hard for me. We worked with Noah and his team for five years to ensure they would go to new homes where they are needed and appreciated. Our bimah went to Illinois.”
A scholarship has been established for Jewish students at nearby Washington & Jefferson College, and Friday night services, conducted via Zoom, consistently attract at least five worshippers.
“Noah was great in that, whenever we came up with a problem or concern, we had someone to use as a sounding board,” Posner said. “He’d say ‘These are all the options in the world and we are here for you for all of them.’ We felt confident that JCLP would tell us the right way to go.” PJC
Deborah Weisberg is a freelance writer living in Pittsburgh.
p Parkway Jewish Center sold its building in 2022 and leased a new space.
Photo by David Rullo
p Beth Israel Synagogue’s building in Washington, Pennsylvania, was sold in 2024.
Photo by David Rullo
p Temple Hadar Israel’s former religious chairman Art Epstein, left, and former President Sam Bernstine prepare to ship a Torah to Houston as they prepare to close their congregation in 2017. Photo courtesy of Sam Bernstine
Life & Culture
AI has a reputation for amplifying hate. A new study finds it can weaken antisemitism, too.
By Philissa Cramer | JTA
Every day, it can seem, brings a fresh headline about how AI chatbots are spreading hateful ideas. But researchers tasked with understanding antisemitism and how it can be stopped say they have found evidence that AI chatbots can actually fight hate.
Researchers affiliated with the Anti-Defamation League’s Center for Antisemitism Research trained a large-lan guage model, or LLM, on countering antisemitic conspiracy theories, then invited people who subscribed to at least one of those theories to interact with it.
The result, according to a study released last week: The users soon believed in the antisemitic theories less, while at the same time feeling more favorable about Jews as a group. And the effects were still strong a month later, even without further engagement with the LLM.
The researchers are hailing the finding as a breakthrough in the quest for identifying actionable strategies in the fight against Jew-hatred.
“What’s remarkable about these findings
p AI chatbots trained on debunking antisemitic beliefs can reduce them in users, researchers found in a study released in November 2025.
is that factual debunking works even for conspiracy theories with deep historical roots and strong connections to identity and prejudice,” David Rand, a Cornell University professor who was the study’s senior author, said in a statement.
“Our artificial intelligence debunker bot typically doesn’t rely on emotional appeals, empathy-building exercises, or
“Do something today that your future self will thank you for.”
anti-bias tactics to correct false beliefs,” Rand continued, referring to practices frequently employed by advocates seeking to fight antisemitism, including at the ADL. “It mostly provides accurate information and evidence-based counterarguments, demonstrating that facts still matter in changing minds.”
Matt Williams, who has headed the Center for Antisemitism Research since its founding three years ago, says the study builds on a growing body of research that views contemporary antisemitism as primarily a misinformation problem, rather than a civil rights problem.
“We need to think about antisemitism less like feelings about Jews, and more like feelings about Bigfoot,” he said in an interview. “And what I mean by that is, it’s not ‘Jews’ that are the problem. It is ‘the Jew’ as a function of conspiracy theory that is the problem. And the relationship between ‘Jews’ and ‘the Jew’ in that context is far more tenuous than we might want to think.”
Calling conspiracy theories “malfunctions in the ways that we make truth out of the world,” Williams said the study showed something remarkable. “People can correct those malfunctions,” he said. “They really can, which is super exciting and really impactful.”
The study emerges from the ADL’s relatively new effort to come-up with evidence-based ways to reduce antisemitism, working with dozens of researchers across a slew of institutions to design and carry out experiments aimed at turning a robust advocacy space into less of a guessing game.
The new experiment, conducted earlier this year, involved more than 1,200 people who said on a previous ADL survey that they believed at least one of six prominent antisemitic conspiracy theories, such as that Jews control the media or the “Great Replacement” theory about Jewish involvement in immigration.
The people then were randomly assigned three different scenarios: A third chatted with an LLM programmed by the researchers to debunk such theories, built within Microsoft’s Claude AI model; another third
chatted with Claude about an unrelated topic; and the final third were simply told that their belief represented a “dangerous” conspiracy theory. Then they were all tested again about their beliefs.
Members of the group that chatted with what the researchers are calling DebunkBot were far more likely than members of the other groups to have their beliefs weakened, the researchers found.
DebunkBot was hardly a panacea for antisemitism: The study found that those who believed in more antisemitic conspiracy theories experienced less change. And Williams notes that the study found only that belief in antisemitic conspiracies was reduced, not rooted out entirely.
But he said any strategy that can cut against what researchers believe has been a widespread explosion of belief in conspiracy theories is a good thing.
The proportion of Americans subscribing to conspiracy theories over the last decade has reached as much as 45%, more than twice the rate that had held steady for 70 to 80 years, Williams said.
“To me, the increase in that level of saturation is far more concerning than any particular conspiracy theory moving through different generations,” he said. “I don’t think that we’re going to ever create a world in which we go under 15% — but going from 45 back to 30 or 25 seems more doable.”
The new study comes as AI models vault into widespread use among Americans, raising concerns about their implications for Jews. When Elon Musk launched a model of his own earlier this year called Grok, it immediately drew criticism for amplifying antisemitism — kicking off a pattern that has played out repeatedly. Soon, the company apologized and said it would train its model to avoid the same behavior in the future. Criticism of Grok is still widespread, but it no longer praises Hitler — though even last week it reportedly told one user that the Nazi gas chambers were not designed for mass killing, prompting an investigation by French authorities.
Chatbot training is seen as essential for delivering high-quality AI results. DebunkBot can be found online on its own website now, but Williams said efforts were underway within the ADL to convince the companies operating major AI platforms to incorporate its expertise.
“There’s far more receptivity than not, by any stretch of the imagination,” he said, while noting that the work was early and he could not share many details.
Whatever happens with that effort, Williams said, the new research demonstrates that combatting what’s sometimes called the world’s oldest hatred is possible.
“AI and LLMs — those are tools, right? And we can use tools for good and for evil,” Williams said. “But the fact that we can subject conspiracy theories to rational conversation and arguments and actually lead to favorable outcomes is itself, I think, relatively innovative, surprising and extraordinarily useful.” PJC
Image by Getty Images
Sometimes the best thing to do is simply get out.
You may be comfortable at home, relaxed and at ease. Your life may be filled with family, friends and tradition. So, you may wonder: Why get out?
If you are secluded or withdrawn, it makes sense why there’s a need to get out. If a person is on social media and devices and lost in their own world, they also might need to get out.
But why a student immersed in his or her studies? Why the outgoing, friendly, family man? Why do they need to get out?
love in the middle of a dry and parched world.
There were the fruits of mitzvahs, warm homes of Torah and wellsprings of divine connection. Jacob was the perfect student incorporating and learning it all.
He was in heaven on earth, and yet he had to get out. And to where? To a far, cold and angry land.
So why go out? Why does our Torah portion demand we get out?
We all must get out because G-d gave each and every one of us a mission, a shlichut — a charge to help another make the world a Beer Sheva, an oasis of life.
One human or one place in this world that is still dry, cold or searching, is a call for us to get out.
Get out and do something to help bring warmth, life and Torah to this
Living a nice life, with meaning and purpose, should be sufficient. A life with Torah, keeping Shabbat and kosher is what we all aim for.
So why get out?
Jacob went out from Beer Sheva.”.
wisdom and life that his father, Isaac, and grandfather Abraham had dug and cultivated. Beer Sheva had become an oasis in the desert, the source of G-dly life. A place of kindness, learning and
individual or place.
This is our mission and call from G-d to each man and woman: Get out!
Get out of your perfect cocoon and change and perfect His world. You have been
Rabbi Elchonon Friedman is the spiritual leader of Bnai Emunoh Chabad. This column is a service of the Vaad Harabonim of
Obituaries
BERNSTEIN: Frances “Fran” (Babe) Greenberg Bernstein, age 94, of Churchill, passed away peacefully on Nov. 22, 2025. Born on Sept. 1, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Celia (Farber) Greenberg. Fran grew up in Pittsburgh and graduated from Peabody High School in 1949. Beloved wife of the late Leonard Bernstein; the cherished sister of the late Anne Harris, Rebecca Goldman and Saul Greenberg, and adored grandmother of the late Lauren Bernstein. Fran’s proudest role was as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, but she also worked various retail businesses over the years. She loved to travel, exploring both the United States and around the world with favorites being Mexico, Israel, Italy, Russia and Singapore — and she shared her experiences through stories that brought her family closer together. Known for her quick wit and remarkable memory, Fran served as her family’s historian, ensuring that traditions, milestones and connections were never forgotten. Her greatest joys were her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family and her faith were always at the heart of her life, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and storytelling that will be treasured by all who knew her. She is survived by her sons Gary (Lori) Bernstein and Bill (Debbie) Bernstein; grandchildren Celia (Gene) Livshin, David Bernstein, Ally (Bobby) Chajson, and Alec (Emily) Bernstein; and great-grandchildren Leni, Daphne and Caleb Livshin and Elle Chajson. She is also survived by her dear cousin, Shirley Bernstein, and will be lovingly remembered by her nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, cousins, extended family, many friends and her beloved grand puppies, Rooney, Mishka and Blue. Services and interment private. Her memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved her. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Blood Cancer United. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com
KATZ: Julia Katz: Feb. 7–Nov. 19, 2025. Beloved wife of Ronald “Ronnie” Katz. Loving mother of the late Tracy Katz (TJ) and late Stephanie Katz. Daughter of the late Bessie Hering. Services and interment were private. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com
activities with enthusiasm. As a young man, he and his friend, Carl Levy, taught themselves to ski in Schenley Park by studying how-to books from Carnegie Library. He skied into his 80s and sailed into his 90s. Larry loved being with family and friends at the Conneaut Lake summer home he commissioned in the early 1960s. He recently celebrated his 100th birthday there. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone whose love and care surrounded Larry throughout the final years of his life. May Larry rest in peace. Donations in Larry’s honor may be made to Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank, Planned Parenthood, or the Jewish Community Center. Services were held at Ralph Schugar Chapel Inc. Interment at the Beth Shalom Cemetery. schugar.com
MITTLEMAN: Edward Mittleman, on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Beloved son of the late Sidney L. and Marilyn Mittleman. Loving brother of Barbara Mittleman and the late Mark Mittleman. Uncle of Liora and Rachel Diamond. Edward was a man who appreciated music, the outdoors and games of skill such as chess and bridge. He appreciated his supportive friends. Graveside service and interment were held at Temple Sinai Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com
Robert Arthur Paul, a dedicated business leader, civic figure and philanthropist in the Pittsburgh community and beyond, passed away peacefully on Nov. 15, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on Oct. 28, 1937, in New York City to Isadore and Ruth (Goldstein) Paul, Bob excelled academically from an early age. Placing a premium on education, he earned his Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University in 1959, his Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 1962 and his Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School in 1964 where he was a Baker Scholar.
Professional leadership: After graduating from college, Bob began his career at Ampco-Pittsburgh Corporation and its predecessor, Screw & Bolt Corporation, as a plant foreman in Gary, Indiana. He proceeded to work there for the remainder of his 50-plus year career alongside his father-in-law, Louis Berkman, and his brother-in-law, Marshall Berkman, rising to the level of chairman and chief executive, which he maintained until 2015. He continued to serve as Ampco’s chairman until 2016 when he assumed the role of chairman emeritus. As a key member of the team, he played a pivotal role in the company’s
Please see Obituaries, page 24
LEVINE: Lawrence (Larry) Levine, who celebrated his 100th birthday Aug. 31, 2025, passed away Nov. 17, 2025. Larry, a man of few words, was a man of decisive action. Brave and tenacious, he was his family’s anchor, a loyal friend and a dedicated contributor to his community, providing support without judgment. Survived by his loving children: Barbara Levine-Ritterman (Robin) of New Haven, Connecticut, Harry Levine (Roberta Mintz) of Pittsburgh, and Richard Levine (Leslie) of Pittsburgh; eight grandchildren: Alex Levine (Yvette Levine) of Pittsburgh, Sophia Levine of Hollywood, California, Peter Levine of West Hollywood, California, Casia Levine of East Hollywood, California, CeeJay Levine of Morristown, Vermont, Lizz Levine Welhouse (Matt) of Waterford, Michigan, Maya Levine-Ritterman of Boston, Massachusetts, and Joshua Levine-Ritterman of New Haven, Connecticut; great-grandson, Kai James Levine Welhouse; his brother, Stanley (Patty) Levine, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. His beloved wife of 72 years, Claire Berland Levine, passed away in 2022. Larry was born and raised in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh and graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School. His studies at Carnegie Tech were interrupted by WWII; he was drafted into the Army Jan. 11, 1944. A year later, he was wounded behind German lines during the battles of the Colmar Pocket in Alsace, France. Larry made his way back to safety and was awarded a Purple Heart. Upon his return to Pittsburgh, Larry continued engineering studies at Carnegie Tech. When his father, the late Harry Levine, developed Hodgkin’s disease, Larry left Carnegie Tech to join the family business, Levine Bros. Hardware, in Homestead, Pennsylvania. When his father passed away in 1952, he became a partner with his brother Stanley Levine, operating the business for more than 50 years. Larry and Stanley also managed their family’s real estate holdings and collaborated with their cousins in developing the Duquesne Village Shopping Center in West Mifflin. Larry was community oriented, serving in major roles with the Rotary Club, Steel Valley Arts Council, the Homestead Chapter of the National Association for Colored People, and the Homestead Economic Revitalization Committee. He was a founding member of Temple David in Monroeville. Larry and Claire were politically engaged, participating in marches in support of civil rights and against the war in Vietnam. They were supporters of Planned Parenthood and the ACLU, among many other causes, and gave generously to many charitable and political entities. The couple enjoyed traveling, often with close friends, and visited Alaska, the Amazon, Antarctica, Israel, England, Ireland, France, Spain, Peru and India. Larry was an Eagle Scout who pursued outdoor
Jewish Association on Aging gratefully acknowledges contributions from the following: A gift from ... In memory of...
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Randy Malt .Marian Malt
Shirley E Preny . . . Beloved Departed, Morris Krantz
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Elinor and Sanford Zaremberg Samuel Zaremberg
Contact the Development department at 412-586-2690 or development@jaapgh.org for more information. THIS WEEK’S YAHRZEITS —
Sunday November 30: Leo L Americus, Fannie Bowytz, Karen Kaplan Drerup, Irving Gibbons, Clara Helfand, Eva Herron, Jennie W Mogilowitz, Jack Myers, Louis Sadowsky, David Louis Smith, Martha Spokane, Samuel Srulson, Dena Stein, B William Steinberger, Sylvia E Swartz, Sari R Talenfeld, Betsy Mark Volkin, David A Weiss, Ida C Wise, Anna Zacks
Monday December 1: Nettie R Broudy, Pescha Davidson, Israel Levine, Max Mallinger, May Schachter, Ben E Sherman, Sophie Patz Strauss, Louis Thomashefsky, Charles Wedner
Tuesday December 2: Dr Solomon Abramson, Max Adler, Saul Cohen, Ethel Simon Cooper, Robert Davidson, Chaya Dobkin, Marcella Dreifuss, Nathan Fireman, Ruth Hirsch, Isador Katz, Bessie Levine, Lena Riemer, Sara Berkowitz Rozman, Etta M Sigal
Wednesday December 3: David Ackerman, Alan Adler, Bertha Lillian Berliner, Simon Blatt, Morris Braun, David Breman, Sarah Cramer, Gussie Finkelstein, Jacob Firestone, Sol Z Heller, Rebecca Hoffman, Hyman Kalovsky, Ithamar Lando, Frances Elling Levine, Morris Levine, Tema Lewinter, Sam Makler, Benjamin Mitchel, Esther Bluestone Morrow, Jacob Offstein, Elly Mars Goldstein Resnik, Sam Sacks, Silas J Simensky, Ethel Solomon, Jack Talenfeld, Dr Louis Weiss, Bessie Zakowitz, Samuel Zaremberg
Thursday December 4: Max Blatt, David H Fischman, Walter Frank, Fern Halpern Kaye, Lawrence L Lifshey, Edward C Meyer, Sam Salkovitz, Harry B Saltman, Harry Soltz, Abe Stolovitz, Samuel Tufshinsky, Jacob Winer
Friday December 5: Eleanor Bergstein, Thomas Berlinsky, Maurice A Berman, Sybil Young Cherington, Henrietta Chotiner, Bessie C Cohen, Hyman Cohen, Gertrude Dugan, Joseph O Goleman, Helen Gusky, Meyer Leff, Marian Pearl Malt, Leona Mandel, William Nathan, Hyman Parker, Samuel Silverman, Anna R Weil
Saturday December 6: Flora Breverman, Harry A Cohen, Lillian Cohen, Sol M Cohen, Morris D Golden, Myron (Bunny) Klein, Edward Lamden, Pvt Joseph Mandel, Louis J Rubenstein, Fannie Solomon, Edward E Strauss, Blanche Strauss Zionts
Obituaries
Obituaries:
Continued from page 23
growth and earned a reputation as a highly regarded leader in the steel industry. Bob’s professional life was defined by his strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence-values he carried with him throughout his career.
In addition to his work with Ampco-Pittsburgh, Bob served as president of The Louis Berkman Company, where he oversaw private investments across a wide range of industries on behalf of his family. These investments spanned from heavy industrial manufacturing with businesses like Meyer Plows, a leading snowplow manufacturer, to financial services. As an early investor in the banking industry in western Pennsylvania through First National Bank of Washington, he guided its growth through its combination with Union National Bank, Integra Financial Corporation, and ultimately through its sale to National City Corporation. He was also a longstanding director of Echo Real Estate Services. His business acumen and success earned him a nomination to the Pittsburgh Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
The Pittsburgh Steelers was a lifetime passion for Bob, a season ticket holder since 1970. In 2009, he became a minority partner and had the pleasure of celebrating a Super Bowl XLIII victory at the very beginning of his engagement with the team.
Philanthropic and civic leadership: Bob was deeply committed to philanthropy. His philan thropic passions centered around healthcare and education. In healthcare, he served as a board member of the Jewish Home for the Aged in Pittsburgh and a board member of Montefiore Hospital. He became chairman of Montefiore in the late 1980s and helped lead its sale to Presbyterian University Health System which ultimately became the cornerstone of UPMC Medical. He maintained a board position there for 10 years and actively and successfully chaired its investment committee. As well, he served as a board member for his synagogue, Rodef Shalom Congregation. His love of education and belief in its benefits led to a lifelong commitment to Cornell University where he served in myriad roles. He was elected to the board of trustees in 1990 and was named trustee emeritus and presidential counselor in 2002. During his long tenure, he chaired the investment committee and served on the executive committee and the committee on alumni affairs and development. He was a member of the College of Arts & Sciences advisory council for over two decades, co-chaired the “Creating the Future” campaign, and joined the College of Veterinary Medicine advisory council in 2006. Active with the Class of 1959, he chaired the 50th reunion campaign major gifts and gift planning committee. With a strong desire to support students, Bob established the Robert and Donna Paul Academic
Advising Fund at Cornell, which encourages and recognizes excellence in academic advising. He and his wife also underwrote the Robert A. and Donna B. Paul Director of Advising at the College of Arts and Sciences. In Pittsburgh, Bob was elected a University of Pittsburgh trustee in 2004 and served until 2013. While there, he served on the executive, health sciences, and investment committees. From 2007 to 2013, he co-chaired Pitt’s historic $2 billion “Building Our Future Together” capital campaign. He also served as chairman and trustee of the Fair Oaks Foundation (which was dedicated to supporting charitable causes throughout the Pittsburgh area), life trustee of the Jewish Healthcare Foundation, and vice president and trustee of the Louis and Sandra Berkman Foundation.
Family: Bob is survived by his wife of 63 years, Donna Berkman Paul; his children Laurence E. Paul (Kathleen), Stephen E. Paul (Nancy), and Karen Zimmer Paul (Norman M. Powell); and his seven beloved grandchildren, Zachary and Julian Paul, Spencer, Matthew and Claire Paul, and Jonah and Tyler Zimmer.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Cornell University’s Robert and Donna Paul Academic Advising Fund. Gifts can be made online — giving.cornell.edu/ways-togive/ — or checks can be sent to Cornell University, Box 37334 Boone, IA 50037-0334. Please reference fund number 196311 or indicate that the gift is in memory of Robert Paul. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com
With heavy hearts, the Pardes community extends our May his memory be a blessing and a source of strength
The Board, Faculty, Staff, and Students of the Pardes
We are heartbroken to announce the untimely death of our beloved Jeremy Shapira on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Husband of David Gilinsky; son of David Shapira and the late Karen Shapira; stepson of Cynthia Shapira; brother of Laura Shapira Karet (Tom Karet) and Deborah Shapira (Barry Stern); tepbrother of David Busis (Catherine Blauvelt) and Hillary Busis (Michael Palmieri). Jeremy was a most fabulous uncle to Will, Charlie and Alexa Karet, and to Pearl, Kayla and Matan Shapira-Stern. He is survived by uncles and aunts Daniel and Barbara Shapira, Ralph Shapira, Bonnie Sun, Edith Shapira and Mark Schmidhofer, and Robert and Andrea Adler; by many beloved cousins in the Shapira, Schmidhofer and Adler families; and by members of the extended Gilinsky family. Jeremy was a dedicated and loving friend, and a master at bringing those he loved together — sharing his irrepressible spirit, infectious enthusiasm, warmth and laughter. He embodied an ethic of service, applying his keen sensitivity to the needs of others in both his personal relationships and his professional work in community service and human relations. His memory and legacy will live on through the lives of those who loved him and those he served. Memorial contributions can be made to The David Gilinsky and Jeremy Shapira Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation (pittsburghfoundation.org/fundsearch), The Pittsburgh Foundation, 912 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Floor 10, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 and The David Gilinsky and Jeremy Shapira Fund of Jewish Community Foundation (together.jewishpgh.org/donate/?name=give), Jewish Federation Foundation, c/o David Gilinsky and Jeremy Shapira Fund, 2000 Technology Drive, First Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Services were held at Rodef Shalom Congregation. Interment B’nai Israel Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com
Howard Jay Weiss (1953-2025). A proud graduate of Monessen High School, the University of Pittsburgh and Freeman School of Business at Tulane University, Howard (“Howie”) Weiss, age 72, of Lakewood, Ohio, died on Nov. 1, 2025. His parents, Joseph and Esther Weiss, preceded him in death. Among his childhood friends, he is still fondly remembered as easy-going, amiable and caring. He quietly achieved distinction on the football field, in the swimming pool and on the student council, serving as council president during his senior year of high school. After completing an MBA at Tulane in New Orleans, Howie spent more than 40 years in accounting and financial-officer roles in the automotive industry in Texas, Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi, later settling in Fairhope, Alabama, a small city with a rich history on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. Howie loved the fresh catch from the nearby Gulf of Mexico, and his specialty was preparing fish tacos. Howie retired to the Cleveland area in 2023 to be close to his older brother, Malcolm, and his brother’s extended family. Their time together was meaningful but sadly too short. Howie leaves behind his cherished daughters, Elizabeth and Caroline; his siblings and their spouses, Dr. Malcolm Weiss (and Patti Corna), Marsha Bramowitz (and Dr. Alan Bramowitz) and Gail Weiss (and Jeffrey Stone), and their children; multiple cousins, and many friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him. Burial was held privately. Donations in Howie’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice, to the Cleveland Clinic neurology department, or to serve the hungry at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 3602 Bridge Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44113 (please specify “meal program”), where Howie derived much satisfaction volunteering his time. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com PJC
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Life & Culture
By Noah Hirsch-Rechter | Forward
In 2023, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts opened a permanent Judaica gallery, the country’s third at a general — read: non-Jewish — institution. A year later, Houston’s MFA followed suit. And, just last week, the Toledo Museum of Art, in Ohio, continued this Judaica revival of sorts by acquiring a 12th-century Afghan kiddush cup for a cool $4 million, a record for a ceremonial object of Judaica. (The previous high was $1.6 million, for a Rothschild Torah Ark.)
Sharon Liberman Mintz, International Senior Specialist in Judaica at Sotheby’s, New York, presided over the sale.
“This object ticked all the boxes,” she told me over Zoom. “It’s close to 1,000 years old, and except for a little bit on the lip, which has been repaired, it’s in astonishingly good condition.” The finely crafted silver cup is the oldest of the 25 medieval Judaica relics left in the world. Mintz sometimes asks people how many such artifacts they think have survived; their guesses are invariably too high, and she would know. “I counted them,” she said, chuckling a little.
The Toledo Museum of Art had been
searching for an object that embodied the “connectivity” of the pre-modern era, said its director, Adam M. Levine, over email. The cup would make an excellent narrative device, therefore, calling attention to the largely forgotten medieval Jewish community of eastern Khorasan, modern-day Afghanistan; to the many fruitful exchanges between Jews and Muslims in the region; and to the crucial medieval trade route that sliced through central Asia, the Silk Road.
It was only recently that the Jewish
contribution to Khorasan, an important hub of medieval silver production, was unearthed, thanks to the discovery of a multilingual cache of letters, prayers and legal documents known as the Afghan Geniza. These confirmed not simply that Jews existed in the region, but also revealed the extent of their collaboration — culturally, linguistically, financially — with non-Jews.
The kiddush cup’s elegant Arabic and Hebrew motifs illustrate this nicely. Alongside the Hebrew name of the object’s owner — Simcha,
or in English, joy — are a series of Arabic dedicatory phrases that also appear on other relics from the period, Mintz said. The word surur, “joy” in Arabic, is written twice, which likely is a reference to Simcha’s name, and is why Sotheby’s called the artifact the “Cup of Joy.”
The artifact is wide, flat and often mistaken for a bowl, Mintz added, but is in fact “the shape of wine goblets at the time.” And dotted along the cup’s rim are several teardrops so large they look almost cartoonish, each containing a bird — a pattern that appears on a number of other Khorasanian objects, too. Levine was likewise taken in by the cup’s various influences; they seemed, to his mind, a kind of thumbnail version of the Jewish Diasporic experience. “It represents such a compelling story of cultural exchange,” Levine said. “And it speaks not only to the religious commingling along the Silk Road, but also expands the narrative we can tell about this period in Khorasan.”
Mintz’s enthusiasm for the relic is so infectious that even an oppressive medium like Zoom can’t dampen it. “To be in the presence of something so old, that had such meaning, and that was so often used — it’s electrifying,” she said. “When people look at it, they’re just mesmerized.” PJC
This story originally appeared in the Forward.
kiddush cup Photo courtesy of Sotheby’s, via the Forward
Community
Sweet visit
Annual remembrance
Staffers from the Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh visited the Sally and Howard Levin Club house, a program of The Branch, in an effort to learn about programs and nonprofits supported by the umbrella organization. While on site, visitors made Rice Krispies treats and Thanksgiving-themed arts and crafts.
The Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh held its annual Kristallnacht commemorative program on Nov. 10 at Rodef Shalom Congregation. More than 190 people learned how approximately 20,000 Jewish refugees escaped Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II and found refuge in the Chinese port city of Shanghai. The evening featured a screening of the PBS documentary “Harbor from the Holocaust” and a panel discussion with Iris Samson, co-producer of the film, and Cindy Berg-Vayonis, whose parents and grandparents survived the Holocaust after finding refuge in the Shanghai
Loaves of love
Chabad of Squirrel Hill hosted a fall baking event celebrating good neighbors and friends.
Saluting service
The Nov. 20 program, co-sponsored by Stand With Us, honored Maria Caruso, a choreogra pher, producer, academic and creative entrepreneur who founded Bodiography.
City Controller Rachael Heisler moderated a discussion between Community Day School students and retired Air Force veteran and current Pittsburgh paramedic Dan Sprouse on Nov. 11.
Levels
Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh students learned about pH in the human body and varying levels of pH in household items.
p Hands-on learning
Photo courtesy of The Branch
p From left: Jessica Wawrykow, science teacher and U.S. Army veteran; City Controller Rachael Heisler; Pittsburgh paramedic Dan Sprouse; and Vaughn Peterson, CDS security director and retired U.S. Marine Photo courtesy of Community Day School
Ghetto.
p Documentarian Iris Samson, Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh’s Emily Loeb and speaker Cindy Berg-Vayonis Photo courtesy of Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh
p
Photo courtesy of Julie Paris
The soul of the matter
Chabad at Pitt welcomed students for a discussion on souls.
