OF PRINCETON MERCER BUCKS NEWS•PROGRAMS•IMPACT

This year, one full year into the pandemic, we are thinking “let my people go" - back to work, back to school, back to seeing friends and family, back to hugs and please “back to normal.”

And we are close. Thanks to the scientists, doctors, researchers and more.

Closer to the human connection we crave.

And thanks to all of you, we continue to feel close and connected to our community. We have heard your feedback on this newsletter. And we are happy to say we are expanding the content to give you more local Jewish news.

So when you set up the Seder plate in a few weeks, let’s reflect on this past year. Many of us have shed and shared tears (Karpas), some have suffered bitterly (Maror), and we are all ready for rebirth (Beitzah).

All of us send our warmest wishes to you and yours for a Chag Pesach Sameach!

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“Let my people go” is a famous refrain of the Passover holiday.

ADAR – NISAN 5781

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The PMB Federation Campaign for 2020-2021 is past the mid-year point and we need your help in reaching our ambitious goal of $1 million dollars. Following the successful November ‘Main Event’, with mentalist Sidney Friedman entertaining Federation Funders virtually, the Federation’s Campaign Cabinet and Federation staff have been hard at work holding a series of mini-telethons to raise additional funds. “While those events and activities have been relatively successful, there is a long way to go,” said Campaign Co-Chair Stephanie Will.

To date, the Federation is at just over 75% of its goal for a total of $755,200 in contributions to date, which includes almost $44,000 from the Federation’s Human Services match that took place at end of 2020. The economic effect of COVID has unfortunately impacted many of our normal community donors, many of whom have lost jobs or have had other detrimental impacts on their businesses. Mark Merkovitz, Federation Executive Director stated, “We know many families in our community are hurting because they have been impacted in one way or another by Covid and other economic issues, including families who are normal givers to Campaign. We as a Federation know what the community needs are, and we can direct the funds to the people who need it most. That is what makes Federation so important in these times.” What we have witnessed is that almost no one has been immune

from the devastating impact of the pandemic -- whether it is health or economics. “But unfortunately our community and Partner Agencies’ needs have never been greater, which means we all have to dig deep and encourage our normal givers to give more and find new donors in the community,” said Stephanie Will.

Over the March through June 2021 period when the campaign will come

to a close, Federation will be holding a number of additional events including more mini-telethons, a Passover appeal, a digital outreach through social media and other outreach activities. “We need the community

to continue to stay engaged on our important Federation

mission. Only your Federation can target the funds to those most uniquely in need in the community, who are suffering under the strain of COVID and other economic hardship,” said Brian Chevlin, Campaign Co-Chair. “When the phone rings at your home or on your mobile, please answer this important call for the PMB community,” continued Chevlin.

The Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks: The Federation’s Annual Campaign

As We Enter the Fourth Quarter of the PMB Federation Campaign, We are in High Gear, But We Need Your Help.

Jerry NeumannPresident

Stephanie WillCampaign Co-Chair

Brian ChevlinCampaign Co-Chair

Marissa TreuAdministration VP

Howard CohenAllocations VP

Michael FeldsteinIsrael / Overseas VP

Jeremy BlackMarketing VP

Adele AginTreasurer

Dan BrentSecretary / JCRC

Jason KraneEngagement

Don LeibowitzGovernance

Mark MerkovitzExecutive Director

Brandon AbelsonJudy AxelrodStacey BialowRob DavidsonEliot FreemanMarsha FreemanDan HerscoviciRobert LevineCarli MasiaCarol PollardElliot SambolRabbi Ben Adler

“ ”

FEDERATION BOARD 2020-21

GOAL$1,000,000

ADAR – NISAN 5781

$755,200

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Dear Community:

Welcome to Issue 2 of “Jewish Together Princeton Mercer Bucks”, which I am pleased to report, based on all the positive feedback that we received from you regarding our inaugural edition, has been expanded by 50% - by the adding of four more pages for lifecycle events, additional feature articles and advertising from local businesses.

I wish you and your families a kosher and joyous Passover holiday - Chag Pesach Kasher Vesameach (Hebrew) and a Koshern un Freilichen Pesach (Yiddish) - and we hope that you are remaining healthy and safe.

In the midst of the ongoing pandemic, the theme of Passover - which commemorates the passage of the Israelites in Egypt from slavery to freedom - takes on a whole new dimension. The pandemic is yet one more adversity that we have been called upon to overcome, that some have referred to as the “11th plague.” And, now we enter the second straight year where many families will gather for the traditional Seder holiday experience in front of the computer screen, rather than around the dining room table.

Our continuing COVID-19 lockdown could be considered the modern-day equivalent of “slavery”, and the completion of the vaccination process (hopefully in the coming months) will bring us one step closer to the “freedom” component of the holiday.

As to our local Federation activities, it has been an extremely busy and productive year so far, and I am particularly grateful for the continued financial support from you - our committed donors - as well as for the dedication and hard work of our Officers and Board members. A brief reminder of our two-part Mission Statement is in order:

1) to provide financial assistance to our Jewish brothers and sisters in need, whether they are local, in Israel or around the world; and;

2) to provide communal leadership, education and advocacy - to our local Jewish Community.

Our Annual Campaign is on target for meeting its goal - thanks to the continued strong leadership of Campaign Co-Chairs Stephanie Will and Brian Chevlin as well as their Campaign Cabinet - and despite the economic challenges facing this country at this time. And our reinvigorated Women’s Philanthropy Team, lead by Stephanie Will, Marsha Freeman, Beth Frieder, Carol Pollard and Marissa Treu are in the process of planning virtual events for the balance of the year (see page 9).

Finally, I wish to highlight three of Federation’s current pursuits (Allocations, Programming and Strategic

Initiatives), which will

help to underscore the

volunteer work being

done behind the scenes

in fulfillment of both

prongs of our Mission

Statement, as follows:

1) Allocations - The

Allocations Committee,

a standing Committee

of Federation, under the capable leadership of VP -

Allocations, Howard Cohen, is currently completing

its detailed review and analysis of various Grant

requests received annually from Jewish non-profits

in our catchment area. This work is an extremely

important part of Federation’s fiduciary obligation

to appropriately allocate your donated dollars. (see

page 12 for information on the application process);

2) Programming - In light of the shutdown of in-

person programming, our VP - Israel/Overseas

Michael Feldstein is chairing an ad-hoc Programming

Committee designed to facilitate enhanced and

unique programs. There are two significant projects

scheduled to occur - the Accounts of the Holocaust

virtual program (April 18th) and a local Sukkah

Village project (September 21st-28th);

3) Strategic Initiatives - I have formed an ad-hoc

Strategic Initiatives Committee - under the capable

leadership of Board members Dan Herscovici and

Brian Chevlin (both of whom possess extensive

corporate planning expertise) - with a two-fold

objective: 1) to review the 2019 Strategic Plan

(prepared pre-Pandemic) and make any necessary

enhancements as well as recommendations for

implementation - with a focus on the ongoing

interaction of Federation with the entire Jewish

Community; and 2) to develop a blueprint for what

our local Jewish Community will look like in the years

and decades ahead. More details to follow in our

Summer Newsletter.

Thank you again, and a Happy Passover to all!

Jerry Neumann, President

Neumann’s News: President’s Update

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Since 1911, the JCC has served as a welcoming hub for the community, dedicated to enhancing Jewish life for all ages through engaging social, cultural, recreational programs and services. The JCC has found new innovative ways to connect people and be a community builder during these challenging times. The pandemic has fueled their mission to expand offerings with a diverse range of virtual “gatherings” for isolated seniors and families. Even more, beginning this year the JCC is now the facilitator of the PJ Library & PJ Our Way programs which are proudly supported by the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks. They now offer both virtual and socially distant creative programs for families to celebrate the Jewish holidays and meet other Jewish families in the community. The JCC’s highly esteemed Abrams Camp is gearing up for their 61st summer season filled with exciting adventure, Jewish values, positive role models and powerful bonds of friendships.

The JCC is unwavering in their commitment to turn everyday minutes into Jewish moments that are remembered for a lifetime.

JCC of Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps: Engaging and Connecting with the Community

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On Passover, we join with family and friends at the seder table to recall the story of our exodus from Egypt. The seder reminds us to look to our past and our traditions to inform our present and instruct us about the future. One such tradition is to welcome the stranger into our homes. Many believe this to be an extension of a core Jewish value, to care for others through tzedakah, or charity.

At the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Mercer, we serve as a trusted resource to those who are dedicated to the giving of tzedakah. Our donor advised funds (DAF) offer a simple, flexible and tax-efficient way to give to charity. A DAF is like a philanthropic bank account, where you set aside money for charitable purposes. Through a fund, you can recommend grants today to your favorite Jewish or secular charities, and you can also fulfill your after-lifetime commitments too. In 2020, 470 grants were made from Foundation funds to more than 215 different charitable organizations.

A recent survey of those currently using a DAF at our Foundation shared the following top four reasons why others should consider opening a fund.

➡ It’s an easy way to make charitable gifts

➡ It feels good to give through a Jewish organization

➡ It’s a smart way to give because of the tax benefits

➡ It’s gratifying to know that – through my fund – I support our local Jewish community

In today’s world, there are many ways for you to be charitable – by volunteering your time and talents, partaking in food and clothing drives, and by giving financial support to meaningful causes. When one gives through a DAF at our Foundation, each grant recipient knows that the gift is from someone in the Jewish community, since the actual grant check is from the Jewish Community Foundation. Many of our donors have established DAFs with our Foundation, instead of choosing another financial institution, to purposely act and give in a Jewish way. Their choice reinforces what the Passover seder teaches us each year, to remember the stranger and to care for people and causes in need.

Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Mercer: Giving Through a Jewish Lens

To learn more or become a supporter visit www.jccpmb.org or call (609) 606-7070.

To discuss giving through a Jewish lens and the other benefits of using a DAF, please contact Linda Meisel at linda@foundationjewish.org or Amy Zacks at amy@foundationjewish.org. To learn more about the Jewish Community Foundation, visit us at www.foundationjewish.org.

ADAR – NISAN 5781

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Residents at Greenwood House and Greenwood House Abrams Residence are receiving dozens of letters a day, and all it took was a social media post on Facebook.

“Our new Pen Pal Program is a welcome surprise for our staff, residents and patients,” says Greenwood House Executive Director, Richard Goldstein. “Just a week after the post and we had reached over 27,000 users,” says Richard. “I think we can safely say that a virus has caused our new program to go viral!”

Thanks to one motivated lady and dedicated Greenwood House supporter, Carli Masia, who proposed an idea that could be wonderful and engaging for our residents and the community, our Pen Pal Program was born.

The Pen Pal Program connects people of all ages from literally all over the country with Greenwood House. Our activities department snapped photos of interested residents holding the sign made by Carli, we launched the post on Greenwood House’s Facebook page, and voilà – letters, poems, photo albums, artwork and cards arrived!

“We’ve been pleasantly overwhelmed with the correspondence we’ve been receiving,” says Richard. “The program has been quite a surprise, and the letters coming from all over, bringing so much joy for our residents. We are now going to connect pen pals with our home care clients as well.”

“What was truly wonderful was when the residents wrote to a pen pal and then received their first responses back. Talk about smiles. Joseph, a short term resident and I were ecstatic when he wrote to his pen pal, Athena, and

he received a 4-page letter back from her. Pen pals were something the two of them shared they both did in the 1970s and welcomed seeing it making a comeback," commented Sherry Smith, Director of Marketing.

“It’s been truly uplifting to see how the letters have brightened our residents’ day,” says Carli. “We are social beings, so even when the note is from someone they don’t know, it reminds them someone is thinking of them. It may seem like a small thing, but if you want to make someone’s day, let them know you’re thinking of them. It makes all the difference.”

Studies show that finding ways to stay connected has a direct impact on mental health and improves well-being. “General words of encouragement to hang in there as things looked so different this past year, reassuring the residents, our families and community we love them, want them to be well, and that things will gradually get back towards normal,” suggested Cara Willis, Director of Social Work at Greenwood House, to our writers.

“Simple notes or handmade cards go a long way in assisting the impact of social isolation,” says Richard. “We’ve seen the positive impact it’s had on our residents … it’s been heartwarming.”

Carli says this is a great project for families, especially those with children, who are searching for different activities to occupy their time.

Greenwood House: Pandemic Pen Pal Program Goes Viral!

The pandemic has taken an emotional and mental toll on our community. Even as there are moments of progress with the vaccine, the slow roll out has heightened anxieties and fears once again.

JFCS understands that the unknowns, the worries, and the ongoing isolation can be hard to tackle on your own. The agency is here for the entire community with mental health resources and supportive programs.

Drop-In Hours are available Monday through Friday. Any community member can reach out to connect with one of our counselors for a 30-minute support session. Drop-in hours can offer callers coping skills for managing the uncertainty and anxiety surrounding the ongoing pandemic, serve as a safe space to share frustrations or fears, or can simply be an understanding, supportive sounding board. Hours are Monday,

Wednesday, and Fridays 10 AM – 12 PM and Tuesday and Thursday 5 – 7 PM. Call JFCS at 609-987-8100 and Dial 0 to be connected for drop-in support.

In addition to the expanded services through drop-in hours, JFCS continues to accept new clients for their counseling program. Services are currently provided via phone or video call and the agency accepts most private insurers as well as Medicare, Medicaid and uninsured individuals. Many clients have found the teletherapy option to be more convenient as they can connect with a counselor from the comfort of their home.

JFCS recognizes the pandemic will have a lasting impact and will continue to prioritize the mental health of the greater Mercer community through programs available to all who need them.

JFCS is here for our community, call us at 609-987-8100 and learn more at www.JFCSonline.org.

JFCS: Healing with Mental Health Support & Counseling

To send a note to a Greenwood House pen pal, simply write “Dear Greenwood House Friend” and mail it to Greenwood House, Pen Pal, 53 Walter Street, Ewing, NJ 08628

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SERVES 6

Mina is the ladino word for pie. This Passover dish, common throughout the Sephardic world, is almost too good to be true. Once the matzo is soaked and baked, it magically transforms into something more like traditional pastry than unleavened bread. Mina has great vegetarian potential and can be filled with anything from eggplant to spinach and cheese to potatoes. But I like the way the matzo soaks up the fat and juices from ground beef in this version. The mina is topped with the fruit-and-nut condiment so crucial to the Passover table: charoset. Cardamom is used to flavor coffee and in sweets throughout the Middle East, but the cardamom-coffee combination works perfectly in savory recipes like this one. The cardamom is super piney and fragrant, with a sweetness that balances the roasty, bitter coffee and the rich, salty meat.

FOR THE CHAROSET: Combine the carrots, apple, walnuts, cilantro, horseradish, raisins, vinegar, and salt in a medium bowl. Toss to combine. Set aside.

FOR THE MINA: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Brush the bottom of a 10-inch cast iron skillet or a baking dish with oil.

Heat the 1 tablespoon oil in another large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring to break up the meat, until it begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the onion, garlic, and salt and continue cooking until the vegetables have softened but not browned, 5 to 8 minutes more. Add the coffee and cardamom and stir to combine.

Soak the matzo in warm water until pliable, about 1 minute. Line the bottom of the oiled cast iron skillet with the matzo, breaking up the pieces as needed to completely cover the bottom and sides of the skillet. Spoon the beef mixture over the bottom and cover the top with more matzo, pressing at the edges to seal. Brush with the beaten egg and bake until the mina is golden brown and crisp, about 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes.

Invert the mina onto a serving platter. Slice into wedges and serve topped with the charoset.

CHAROSET 4 carrots, peeled and grated 1/2 apple, peeled and grated 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons fresh horseradish

2 tablespoons raisins

1 tablespoon white vinegar Kosher salt

MINA 1 tablespoon canola oil,

plus more for brushing

1 pound ground beef 1/2 onion, diced

5 garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon finely

ground coffee 1/2 teaspoon ground

cardamom

4–6 sheets matzo

1 large egg, beaten

MINA WITH GROUND BEEF, CARDAMOM AND COFFEE

SERVES 8

INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup olive oil 2 cups chopped onions 1 tablespoon sweet paprika 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 5 cups roughly chopped red bell peppers (about 4 large)1 cup peeled, grated carrots (about 2 carrots) 1/2 bunch cilantro (1/2 cup chopped) 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or garlic scapes

RED PEPPER SALAD

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, about 10 minutes. Add the paprika and stir, cooking for another minute. Add the vinegar and red peppers and continue cooking until the peppers are very tender, about 10 minutes. Add the carrots, chopped cilantro, sugar, and salt and stir to combine.

• Transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse until coarse. Serve hot or chilled. Before serving, top with chives or scapes and the remaining cilantro.

MichaelSOLOMONOV

Passover Recipes by

Award winning Chef and Owner of ZAHAV restaurant in Philadelphia

ADAR – NISAN 5781

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Rabbi Benjamin Adler, Adath Israel Congregation

Rabbis' Reflections: Insight on this Upcoming Passover

“Let all who are hungry, come and eat; let all who are in need, come and share the Passover meal.” These words found in the Haggadah teach us that we are not truly free until everyone enjoys the freedom that we gained thousands of years ago when our people were released from Egyptian bondage. This year I hope that we will bring these words to life by doing all we can to help others achieve liberation. As Jews we have a responsibility and an obligation to work for social justice.

Rabbi Jay M. Kornsgold, Beth El Synagogue

Rabbi Adena Blum, Congregation Beth Chaim

In every generation, we are instructed to retell the Exodus story as if we ourselves had been slaves. This year, as we struggle with the losses and limitations of COVID, we may feel like “strangers in a strange land,” cut off from friends and family, mourning the loss of loved ones, and worried about the future. As we chant the four questions, let us add a few more: What has been lost? What has been gained? Where can we experience the sweet amidst the bitterness? What brings us hope?

Rabbi Elisa Goldberg, Congregation Temple Micah

This Passover is unusual, not just because of COVID. After all, we did Zoom Seders last year. This year the first Seder falls on Saturday evening, which happens only about 12 times a century, and presents problems of Jewish law (how do we eat Shabbat challah if our homes are already bread-free?), but is also a reminder that our tradition has always confronted challenges. Through it all we have constantly found ways to survive and thrive. Even as we are apart again this year, we are together as one people.

A traditional name for the holiday of Passover is z’man cheruteinu—the time of our freedom. During this pandemic, many have mourned the loss of freedom. We miss our freedom to travel, to visit family and friends, to hold hands or give hugs. But Passover is more so a chance to celebrate freedom from: freedom from slavery, persecution, and tyranny. So this Passover, let us focus on our freedoms from: freedom from lengthy commutes, from forgetting someone’s name, from not having enough time to try a new hobby. And in acknowledging our freedoms from, may we truly feel free.

As we approach Passover this year, it feels like we are in Egypt. Our lives are so much narrower than they once were. Passover comes to assure us that God has always delivered us. We walked through the waters of the Red Sea, washed ourselves clean of the oppressive experience in Egypt, and moved into to a wilderness of an unknown world. Yet even there, we can breathe deeply and hope for the future - we can celebrate life. May this Passover be a celebration of hope and deliverance for us all. Chag Sameach!

Rabbi Jordan Goldson, Har Sinai Temple

I can’t believe that we face yet another Zoom Passover season! Yet again, we have to scale back favorite recipes, or maybe forgo special dishes. Once again, we do our family and friends the biggest kindness by being distant. No Passover hugs this year! But we have hope: we say at the end of the Seder: next year in Jerusalem. I think we need to add: next year, in post-COVID, with full tables of family and friends! Wishing everyone, near and far, a joyous and redemptive Passover holiday.

Rabbi Elliot Schoenberg, The Jewish Center

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Caden BialowThe most fun thing that I’ve gotten to do because I’m Jewish would probably be going to Israel for my cousins’ B’nai-mitzvah. When I was in Israel I had the luxury of participating in many cultural activities. My favorite of which, was visiting the Western Wall. I really enjoyed visiting the Western Wall because it allowed me to feel connected to my Jewish ancestry. I remember placing my hand on the wall as I said a prayer, and stuffing a written note into one of the spaces between the enormous stones. Going to a bullet factory was another highlight of the trip. The technology within the factory was very interesting to me, as I have a passion for engineering and mechanical design. Lastly, we went to the top of Masada and were able to see many ancient structures as well as watch my cousins’ B’nai-mitzvah service.

My favorite bagel order would have to be a whole wheat everything bagel with lox, cream cheese, and capers.

Brooke HornsteinIn December 2018, I was lucky enough to travel with my synagogue to Israel. The most interesting part of the whole trip was visiting the Negev Desert. As I struggled to walk up Masada, a 1,424ft mountain, I made deeper connections with my peers and took in the breathtaking view of the Dead Sea. We learned about the history surrounding the mountain and saw the beautiful natural fortress. Later that day, we drove to the Dead Sea. My friends and I ran into the salty lake, with our protective water shoes on, of course, and began to float. I could feel the salt on my skin for the rest of the trip; it was a reminder of the incredible adventure. I am honored to have experienced travelling to Israel, and I hope to go back soon to continue exploring my Jewish self.

My favorite bagel order is an everything bagel toasted with butter.

Sara HendersonThe most interesting thing I’ve gotten to do because I’m Jewish is research my ancestry. This was for a project at my religious school where we made a trifold explaining our family’s history. At first, I wasn’t sure how I wanted to approach this or do my research, but then I thought of interviewing my grandparents and asking them about their childhoods and memories. I was excited to call them and ask them questions about where they grew up, their favorite activities when they were my age, and their favorite stories, and their details about their family’s immigration. They were so excited to share with me and go into detail about their pasts, which made me happy. Overall it was a great experience, and now I understand my family and history much more.

My favorite bagel order is a toasted plain bagel with cream cheese and lox.

Hayden MasiaWhen I was in sixth grade, my family and I took a trip to Barcelona, Spain. During that trip, we explored the Jewish quarter of the city, where we learned that many Jewish people changed their last names to common objects or places to hide their identity during the Spanish Inquisition. We then learned that our last name, Masia, (pronounced M-Asia) is pronounced Ma-see-ah in Catalan, and means farmhouse! This suggested that our family might have had some roots in Spain and needed to change their last name. We also went to Gerona, where we saw many Jewish head stones carried from cemeteries used in the construction of a castle. While it was very sad to see these desecrated stones, it was interesting to learn about a part of Jewish history that I had never explored.

Also, my bagel order is a classic: everything bagel with cream cheese and lox!

Teen TalkTell us about the most interesting/fun thing

you’ve gotten to do because you are Jewish? And what is your favorite bagel?

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Princeton Lions Roar @ National Women's Philanthropy Conference -- VIRUTALLY LIMITLESS!This past January, the International Lion of Judah pivoted and ran a virtual conference. There were over 125 Jewish Federation Women's Philanthropy chapters and 4,800 women from across North America, who participated in the event, Virtually Limitless.

The conference was chaired by Jane Wilf (Greater MetroWest, NJ) and Heidi Monkarsh (Los Angeles). Locally, our conference chairs were Beth Frieder and Stephanie Will.

We had 22 women from our community attend the conference. Many of our Lions encouraged their daughters and nieces to attend the conference to support NEXT-GEN efforts. Our Lions heard from guest speakers Heidi Zak, founder of Third Love, Clea Shearer & Joanna Teplin, co-founders of the THE HOME EDIT and Stars of the hit Netflix show “GET ORGANIZED WITH THE HOME EDIT.” These Jewish entrepreneurs spoke about raising Jewish families, doing well while doing good and how their Jewish values have shaped their experiences developing and running their businesses.

We heard from leaders across the Jewish World on the critical work that is being done across the globe because of the funds raised by Federations. Speakers included … Amanda Katz, Exec Director of JCADA, who discussed efforts to end power-based violence,

empowering survivors and ensuring safe communities. Also, we heard from Julie Platt, chair of LIVE SECURE, Ariel Zwang CEO of the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and Amir Ahronoviz, CEO of Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI).

Our Lions then had the choice of spotlight break-out sessions covering topics such as MASA Israel Journey - an Israel immersive experience during a global pandemic and BDS and Antisemitism on Campus - how Federations support Jewish students, as well as other spotlights sessions included, Racial Equality in the Jewish Community and a JFNA partnership with JDC supporting Disability and Inclusion around the world.

The highlight of the conference was hearing from Sheryl Sandburg, COO of Facebook, a second-generation Lion of Judah, and the inaugural recipient of the RUTH BADER GINSBURG award. It was presented by Justice Ginsburg's granddaughter, Clara Spera, herself a Harvard Law School graduate and attorney.

The conference was a wonderful opportunity for all who participated. It reinforced our belief that as women, we can make an impact on changing the lives of others for the better. Collectively, our Lions, left the conference more energized and more committed than ever to supporting Women's Philanthropy at the Lion of Judah level.

The mission of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Mercer includes educating the community about, and responding appropriately to, instances of Anti-Semitism. We are here to help, but we need the community to alert us about untoward incidents, whether they occur at school, at work, or in public. Your report will be held in confidence if you wish.

Although we hope the need will not arise, we are ready to advise recipients of Anti-Semitic rhetoric or actions, to connect them with other organizations who can also help, to listen empathetically, or to collaborate in formulating an appropriate and effective response. Whatever you may need, we have your back. Just reach out to Mark Merkovitz, JCRC Executive Director, via email mmerkovitz@jewishpmb.org or call 609-524-9910.

The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Mercer has your back, but we need your help…

Forum on Anti-Semitism Facing Jewish Youth in Our CommunityOn April 28th, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Mercer (JCRC) will hold our first forum on Anti-Semitism for parents and caregivers of Jewish youth. During this Zoom meeting, we will encourage parents and educators to share their experiences with Anti-Semitism in Greater Mercer and Bucks County schools, so JCRC can understand those challenges more completely and take steps to help parents and educators of Jewish youth of all ages be better prepared to respond to anti-Semitism and other hate speech.

ADAR – NISAN 5781

Women’s Philanthropy “Virtually Limitless Heart to Heart Virtual Mission” will take place April 20, April 27 and May 4. Open to all female philanthropists.

For more information reach out to Mark Merkovitz at mmerkovitz@jewishpmb.org

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JCC Of Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps Partners with PJ LibraryIn January, the JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps proudly announced its new partnership with PJ Library, this program is funded by the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks. The JCC now plays a key role in enriching the Jewish identities of families raising Jewish children, by inspiring families with engaging in meaningful Jewish social, educational, and communal experiences. With this new partnership together the two agencies will build a more vibrant Jewish community in Greater Princeton & Mercer County. The JCC team is led by Executive Director, Wendy Soos who put together a “dream team” managed by Jennifer Kravitz, JCC Assistant Director, and facilitated by Robin Smolarz, PJ Library Coordinator. Their years of Jewish programming and summer camp experience are the perfect combination igniting unique ideas for children and families to grow Jewishly together. Their signature monthly programs are called “PJ Play @ the J” and have already begun with a strong kickoff this year celebrating Purim together with live music, stories, and songs with Mr. Frank from Music Play Patrol. Then in

March, a creative time was spent with another free virtual interactive children's drawing workshop with Illustrator, Sean Rubin from the PJ March book titled "The Passover Guest." Watching

the children’s illustrative suggestions come to life live was a unique experience they will never forget. As the weather becomes warmer, the programs will move socially distant outdoors so that families can gather safely, meet new friends within the community and participate in programs focused on Jewish Holidays and traditions. Save the date of April 15th for their next “PJ Play @ the J” program, which will be held on the beautiful campus grounds of the JCC, to celebrate Yom Ha’azmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. Following that will be a program in May to welcome the seasonal holiday of Shavuot by exploring the great outdoors.

For more information and join the fun visit www.jccpmb@jccpmb.org/pjlibrary

ADAR – NISAN 5781

11www.jewishpmb.org •

B'nai Mitzvah: January - May 2021 Rebecca Slater Daughter of Rich & Katie Slater Jan 2 Beth ChaimEthan Silverberg Son of Adam & Elana Silverberg Jan 9 The Jewish CenterLexi Sambol Daughter of Elliot & Lana Sambol Jan 23 The Jewish CenterCaleb Willner Son of Bruce & Tiffany Willner Jan 23 Adath IsraelCooper Jacknow Son of Bret & Lisa Jacknow Feb 6 The Jewish CenterSam Schwartz Son of Adam & Leslie Schwartz Feb 20 The Jewish CenterHannah Shussler Daughter of Bethany Shussler Feb 27 Beth ElIsla Levy Daughter of Noah & Lynda Levy Feb 27 Beth ChaimFrancesca Portsche Daughter of Nicholas Portsche & Emily Hirsh Mar 6 Beth ChaimDaniel Rosenblat Son of Roman Rosenblat & Lisa Dobruskin Mar 6 The Jewish CenterLogan Miller Son of Jonathan & Dara Miller Mar 13 The Jewish CenterWilliam Frole Son of Jeff Frole & Pamela Adler Mar 20 Beth ChaimHadleigh Schneider Daughter of Barry & Allison Schneider Mar 20 The Jewish CenterKaelan Steele Bloom Son of Jeffrey & Bridget Bloom Apr 10 Beth ChaimJacob Winn Son of Daniel & Claude Winn Apr 10 The Jewish Center Caitlyn Grodsky Daughter of Jason & Elyssa Grodsky Apr 17 Beth ChaimJordan Grodsky Daughter of Jason & Elyssa Grodsky Apr 17 Beth ChaimMax Gertsman Son of Jake & Jennifer Gertsman Apr. 17 Beth ElEthan Zavaglia Son of William & Jacqueline Bray Mullen Apr 24 Adath IsraelAutumn Gallicchio Daughter of Jason & Ada Gallicchio Apr 24 Har SinaiJuliana Boorstein Daughter of Dr. Robert & Hidee Boorstein Apr 24 Har SinaiHayden Foster Nubile Son of James & Marje Nubile Apr 24 Beth ChaimIsabelle Bloom Daughter of Laura Bloom May 1 The Jewish CenterSarah Safronov Daughter of Victor & Rowena Safronov May 1 Beth ChaimJoseph Faiman Son of Casey & Karen Faiman May 1 Har SinaiAnna Kaufman Daughter of Adam Kaufman & Nicole Soffin May 8 The Jewish Center Joshua Pastor Son of Jonathan & Allison Pastor May 8 Beth ChaimEthan Feldman Son of Ilad Feldman & Rachael Cooper May 15 The Jewish CenterJeremy Schaffel Son of Jonathan & Jennifer Schaffel May 15 Beth ElDylan Spector Daughter of Evan & Michele Spector May 15 Beth ChaimSilvano Massa Son of Salvatore Massa & Jane Elefant May 22 Beth ChaimJoel Smolarz Son of Gabriel & Robine Smolarz May 29 Beth Chaim

LIFE CYCLE

Births Adam Philip Zatz Grandson of Irving & Janet Zatz Jan. 19 Beth Chaim

Deaths Muriel Goldstein Jan 1Edward Kaplan Jan 4Evette Katlin Jan 5Dorothy Cambon Jan 6Rabbi Dr. Yosef Green Jan 8Rebecca Van Praag Jan 8Edward Lemack Jan 9Stephen Borrus Jan 10Betty Barnett Jan 11Patrica Gould Jan 11Michael Cooper Jan 12Paula Alexander Jan 12

Mandy Rabinovich Jan 12Jack Boshak Jan 13Ernestine Urken Jan 13Hedy Tellerman Jan 15Regina Mayer Jan 21Helene Mermelstein Jan 21Allen Applebaum Jan 25Frances Baum Jan 30Nelly Toll Jan 30Lirisa Shumakher Feb 2Toby Ludmer Feb 2Morris Blum Feb 2

Rita Kravitz Feb 8Barbara Lefcourt Feb 9Michael Simon Feb 15Florence Banks Feb 16Marion Roemer Feb 17Ruth Lubitz Feb 17Fredrick Cohen Feb 17Elizabeth Joseph Feb 22Jack Warren Feb 26Edward Bershad Feb 26Michael Blaustein Mar 1Stanley Rosenberg Mar 4

ADAR – NISAN 5781

Be Part of a Traditionthat honors those who’ve passed

1534 Pennington RoadEwing Township, NJ 08618JOEL E. ORLAND, Senior Director NJ Lic. No. 3091MAX J. ORLAND, Funeral Director NJ Lic. No. 5064

OrlandsMemorialChapel.com(609) 883-1400

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www.JewishPMB.org609-219-0555

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Chag Pesach Sameach

UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

*Note: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before

UPCOMING EVENTSPortraits of Moral Choices During the Holocaust • April 18th @ Noon

Lessons for Humanity from stories of Perpetrators, Bystanders and Upstanders.

Heart 2 Heart Virtual Mission • April 20th, 27th May 4th A JFNA Women Philanthropy virtual three-day mission to Israel open to all Women Philanthropists.

A Virtual Mission to Latin America Jewish Day Schools • May 5th @ 7pmVisit live with, students, teachers and parents attending ORT Jewish Day Schools

in Panama, Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City.

First and Second Day of Passover* March 28th & 29th Seventh and Eighth Day of Passover* April 3rd & 4thYom Ha'Shoah (Israel Holocaust Remembrance Day) April 8th

Yom Ha'Zicharon (Israel Memorial Day) April 14th Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) April 15th

Lag B'Omer* April 30thShavuot* May 17th & 18th

GRANT APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTEDThe Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks is excited to announce that we will be

accepting Grant Applications starting April 1st for grants to be used for 2021-2022*. The Federation is inviting Jewish nonprofit organizations serving the Princeton Mercer Bucks

community to apply. if you are interested in applying or have questions, please email Mark Merkovitz at mmerkovitz@jewishpmb.org or call him at 609-524-9910. (*7/1/21 through 6/30/22)

As we recall the bondage of our ancestors that shaped our past and rejoice in the freedom we have inherited, the Board and Officers of the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks

wish you and your family a meaningful, hope-filled and safe Pesach celebration.

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