RUTH LITTMANN STAFF WRITER

JEFF shows appreciation for
its volunteers.

lana and Sara joined
their mother, Sharon
Anders.

Tom Aquino (next to Judi McGovern) owns Positive Duplication,
which assisted JEFF's books-on-tape project.

he frosting on the cake said it all: 'Thank You!' in
three different languages.
Jewish Experiences for Families on Aug. 3 hon-
ored more than 70 volunteers — Russian and Amer-
ican — for lending their helping hands throughout
the year.
Many of the volunteers are emigres who, in re-
cent months, have assisted even newer Americans
in the resettlement process. Several have partici-
pated as volunteers in other JEFF programs, like
the Great Purim Parcel Project, Chanukah party
and Russian books-on-tape.
Sponsored on behalf of JEFF's acculturation com-
mittee, which is chaired by Barbara Moehlman and
Barbara Nussbaum, the festivity featured tables of
fruits and sweets, as well as a balalaika performance
by husband-wife duo, the Zuts.
Gennady and Tatyana Zut resettled in Michigan
during the early 1990s. Their musical talent has
been showcased at local venues and downtown. T ast
week, when they performed for the JEFF gala, Gen-
nady and Tatyana played Jewish melodies.
"The new Americans were so thrilled because
they have heard balalaika music with Russian
tunes, but it was the first time they heard Jewish
music played on the instrument," said Ellie Slovis
of JEFF.
"This was really our chance to say thank you to
all those who've been involved in new American pro-
gramming, especially the new Americans them-

selves, many of whom have thanked us
and asked how they might get involved
in helping others the way they have been
helped," she added.
"Volunteering is a beautiful way for
them to become part of the Jewish corn-
munity."111

You!

k

Angelina Kluzner enjoyed the gala with her daughter, Kira.