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THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947 MARCH-APRIL 2020 | -- 5780

Violins of Hope • Grants from Jewish Long Beach •

Being Jewish – Opting In or Opting Out • YaShoah

• What’s Happening at the “J” • And so much more . . .

jewishlongbeach.org | MARCH – APRIL 2020 | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | VOL. 73 NO. 5 INSIDE

THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947 Laurie Raykoff JEWISH LONG BEACH PRESIDENT

Zachary 13 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Carol A. Beckerman EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

JEWISH long beach empowering Greater Long Beach/West Orange County since 1948 Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791 Phone: 562.426.7601 FAX: 562.424.3915 jewishlongbeach.org 4 5 18 /jewishlongbeach INSIDE CORPORATE SPONSORS @jewishlongbeach Become a Corporate Partner Today. Contact 562-426-7601 ext. 1007. 3 Grants Program – Created to Foster Collaboration The Jewish Long Beach grant making program fosters collaboration between organizations and the sharing of resources with the goal of bringing innovative programs and collaboration to our community. PUBLICATION & 3 Our Global Jewish Long Beach ADVERTISING Our guest contributor Richard Marcus shares what it means to him to be a in Long Beach. 562.426.7601 x1007 [email protected] 4 Remembering Those Who Perished The month of April provides us with many opportunities to honor those who perished during the . AD & COPY DEADLINE May/June 2020 deadline: 5 Men’s Philanthropy – Above & Beyond 2020 , 2020 A few captured moments from this very fun, fundraiser.

6 Making Prom a Special Night ISSN# 1525- 6847 Prom dresses and suits are needed to make teen dreams come true. 8 Being Jewish – Opting In or Opting Out Yitzchak Newman holds out hope that two recent acquaintances will decide to explore their neglected Jewish identities. Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Member 9 Jewish Long Beach Grant Spotlight Grants foster collaboration between The Hebrew Academy and Jewish Family & Children’s Services. ©2020 Jewish Long Beach 10 Alpert All Rights Reserved. 12 Community News - Hebrew Academy The appearance of product or 13 Community News - Hillel/CSULB Program establishment advertising in the 14 Greetings Donald J. Kaiser Jewish Community Chronicle does Investment Management not constitute an endorsement of 16 Tributes/In Memoriam A Registered Investment Advisor kashruth. Opinions printed in the Jewish Community Chronicle do 18 The Legacy of an Incomparable Leader not necessarily reflect those of the On February 2, 2020 we lost a beloved member of our community and Jewish Long Beach. The publication a legendary leader with the passing of Gene Lentzner. of a paid political advertisement does not constitute endorsement of any candidate, political party or political position by Jewish Long Beach or any employee. CANDLELIGHTING March 6 5:36 pm March 20 6:47 pm April 3 6:58 pm April 17 7:08 pm Cover Image: March 13 6:42 pm* March 27 6:52 pm April 10 7:03 pm April 24 7:14 pm ©2020 of Hope *March 8 Daylight Savings begins Candlesticks ©2020 eezy.com

2 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 OPINIONS NEWS JEWISH LONG BEACH Grants Program – Created to Foster Collaboration Zachary Benjamin | CEO Jewish Long Beach

Statistics from the Pew Research Center and emotional well-being of Hebrew Academy Orange understanding of Jewish various Jewish communities’ demographic studies County students. This project was offered jointly community within the broader have indicated that Passover is the Jewish with Jewish Family and Children’s Services of Long community, combating anti- in which the highest number of American Beach and West Orange County. Semitism, creating points participate. Indeed, many of us cherish childhood • Attendance of a Long Beach-area delegation, of contact for non-engaged memories of reading the Four Questions, slowly led by Beth , at the L’Taken Social Justice young Jewish families, and navigating our way Seminar in , DC. teen engagement. through the newly-learned • ’s “Staying Engaged in Jewish • Jewish Pluralism, Hebrew script. We Life Post-College” program, engaging young post- including programs Zachary Benjamin relished the adrenaline college in Jewish life. providing access to resources for rush we experienced as • Volunteer training for Ethel’s Chicken , a interfaith families, building bridges across Jewish we spotted the tiniest program of of Los Alamitos. denominations, and fostering inter-generational corner of napkin • Support for Jewish Family and Children’s relationships. peeking out from behind Services’ Holocaust Survivor Program, supporting • Engaging with Israel and the World, which a flower pot, realizing vulnerable, low-income survivors of includes building cultural bridges, partnerships, that we had found the living alone. and engagement with community groups and Scheur Menaker, ©JNA elusive Afikomen. We • And many more. organizations, plus incubator programs and other recall the retelling of the , the gradual While our Building Jewish Life Grants will programs that connect Long Beach and West consumption of the contents of the Seder plate, continue to serve individual organizations Orange County with Israeli business and , and the opening of the door for the , seeking funding for community-wide programs, as well as with other overseas Jewish communities. struggling against temptation to doze as the hour our Ignite the Power of Community Innovation We are committed to growing the pool of available grew late. Grants are designed for organizations working in grant funds and to expanding the diversity of Perhaps the most important function of Jewish partnership programs and organizations supported by our Long Beach is to help ensure that the type of to create grants, with the goal of significantly increasing joy in engendered by these opportunities funds available by more than double within the moments remain aflame in every Long Beach-area for Jewish next two years. We hope to accomplish this though Jewish , and that they are passed with pride engagement, both careful management of investments and more from generation to generation. A primary means education, and impactful financial resource development tactics, of fostering and engagement is service. including frequent features across platforms through our Building Jewish Life Grants and our This year’s that tell the stories of those impacted by Jewish Long Ignite the Power of Community Innovation Grants. funding Beach-funded programs, and how these programs Through these grants, Jewish Long Beach funds themes are igniting the power of Jewish community among projects and programs of Long Beach-area Jewish include: Long Beach-area Jews of all streams and walks of agencies and congregations that advance Jewish • Jewish life. identity, peoplehood, and service. Education, All of us at Jewish Long Beach hope that this Now in its second year, our grants program including Passover yields unforgettable Jewish moments for fosters collaboration between organizations and the young you and your families, and we look forward to being sharing of resources, bringing innovative programs engagement, part of your family’s Jewish journey, throughout the to our community and helping local institutions camp, Holocaust remembrance and understanding, life cycle, for generations to come. provide critical services. Programs supported last finding entry into the Jewish community, and year by Jewish Long Beach grants included: education across Jewish movements. • Small-group counseling and classroom • Community Engagement, including Olam workshops to support the mental health and and social justice partnerships, outreach to promote Our Global Jewish Long Beach Richard R. Marcus | Guest Contributor

My first time in a outside the U.S. was in Israel over many years. I am blessed to have had families of Long Beach who when I lived in Nairobi, . It is not exactly the the opportunity to wrap my head (and heart) around had the vision to recognize a first place one thinks of when seeking a vibrant what it means to be a Jew in other parts of the world commonality of identity and Jewish life, but you may be surprised. where most people don’t realize they exist, then to purpose that transcends our The Conservative service was conducted entirely return home. I am so proud not just to be a Jew but differences! We sit together at in Hebrew, and, at that point in my life, I spoke to be a Jew in Long Beach. We look at communities the table to make decisions, none. The rabbi and I walked out together. A newly big and small, devout and secular, and build programs together, displaced New Yorker, as we exited he struggled to pray in each other’s , communicate his needs to the guard. I went to the celebrate together, and, far guard to translate for him, turning back to see the “You’re a California Jew who too frequently of late, mourn Rabbi’s shock. “You’re a California Jew who speaks together. Richard Marcus Swahili but not Hebrew?” I quickly learned I was speaks Swahili but not Hebrew?” We the , but just as Swahili the rule not the exception. speakers outnumber Hebrew speakers in Kenya, It was an energetic and engaged community of insular, and traditional and hybrid. We realize there Spanish speakers in our community far outnumber Kenyan, Somali, Ethiopian, Yemeni, and expatriate are Ashkenazim, Mizrahim, Sephardim, Kochinim, the Hebrew speakers. No matter. Let’s say it in western Jews in central Nairobi. Today, there is a and . We acknowledge what seems like Spanish, in Swahili, in , or in Malayalam. very active synagogue, a Chabad across town, such a painfully endless array of branches. We We are one people in Greater Long Beach, Israel, as well as a Kikuyu-speaking Kasuku Jewish debate shifting definitions of family. Yet, we see how and the world and the stronger for it. community 200 miles away on Lake Victoria. global differences create local diversity and robust I have since experienced myriad forms of pluralism. What a debt we owe to the great Jewish

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 3 JEWISH LONG BEACH NEWS EVENTS

Remembering Those Who Perished Sharon Kenigsberg | Director of Endowment & Community Development

Our 2020 Community Yom HaShoah while Nazi soldiers marched others to their deaths. Faces of Resilience, and the Human Spirit. Commemorative Candle Lighting and Holocaust When Weinstein opened the ’s case, he saw Curated by Freedman-Harvey, this exhibit Memorial Service will be held on , April 19, ashes. He thought of his own relatives, 300 of whom features the artwork of Bill Aron, Dina Dar and Dave beginning at 2:00 pm. The event is open to all and had perished, and was overwhelmed. He could Fox. The works tell stories of determination, hope, not bring himself to begin the project. By 1996, faith, resilience and the power of the human spirit Weinstein was ready. He put out a call for violins to thrive even after the darkness of the Holocaust. from the Holocaust that he would restore in hopes Dina Dar and Dave Fox were both born in . that the instruments would sound again, giving a They would have their identity and lives shaped by voice to the voiceless. the events of the Holocaust, and their artwork is a reflection of their resiliency to survive and to still We Will Hear the Voice of These Violins find beauty in life. Bill Aron will exhibit a selection For the Community Yom HaShoah Observance, of portraits of from the series on April 19, we are fortunate to be partnering “The Indestructible Spirit,” commissioned by with the Long Beach Symphony to have virtuoso the Rodgers Center for at violinist Niv Ashkenazi as our featured guest. Niv Chapman University in conjunction with The 1939 will be playing one of the restored violins on April Society. All of the artworks illustrate the strength of 19 for Yom HaShoah and then again the evening of the human spirit, and what each of us can achieve. April 25 for the Violins of Hope event at the Long There will be an Artist Reception, open to all, on Beach Symphony (for ticket information, see pg. 9) March 29, 3–5pm at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg will be held in the Lipeles Auditorium at the Alpert Niv Ashkenazi has captivated audiences Jewish Long Beach Campus. Jewish Community Center on the Weinberg Jewish with his heartfelt musicianship and emotional Long Beach Campus. performances. Praised for his “lush sound” and Gerda Seifer Yom HaShoah Fund This annual Yom HaShoah event is truly a “passionate playing” (CASA Magazine) and Jewish Long Beach has honored Gerda Seifer community effort with and from “formidable technical by naming the Yom HaShoah all the local participating in the powers” (Santa Barbara Fund in her honor. The fund memorial service. This year, the service will be News-Press), he has makes possible the annual led by Rabbi David of Temple Beth made several Carnegie Community Yom HaShoah and the program will feature virtuoso violinist Niv Hall and Kennedy observance program, as well Ashkenazi and the Violins of Hope. Center appearances, as other Holocaust education and has performed activities and programs. If you Violins of Hope in Europe, the Middle wish to continue the important Violins of Hope was created to celebrate the triumph East, and across work of memorializing the of the human spirit. The private collection of more . His Holocaust, please consider a than 60 violins, violas and cellos were rescued conviction that the donation to the Gerda Seifer from the ashes of the Holocaust. Collected by impact of music The Buried Violin has been underwritten by Jewish Long Beach. Yom HaShoah Fund. Please master violin artisan Amnon Weinstein and his son serves people beyond make your tax-deductible Avshalom in , the instruments have been the concert stage motivates him to collaborate on donation payable to: Jewish Long Beach and mail to restored so they can continue to tell the story of the projects that create a strong emotional bond with 3801 East Willow Street, Long Beach, CA 90815 or role of – particularly violins. his audience. call 562.426.7601 ext. 1314 to make your donation by In the 2019-2020 season, Ashkenazi will be the phone. Donations received by April 13, 2020 will be first ever Artist in Residence at the Younes and recognized in the printed event program. Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts (The Soraya) and will perform as a soloist with the Long Beach Symphony. 2020 Violins of Hope Local Events Adopted Violins The restored Violins of Hope were played by March 5 The Arlene Visions Jewish musicians during the Holocaust. These Dinner, Jewish Long Beach, instruments have survived concentration camps, Susanne Reyto, Speaker and many long journeys to tell remarkable April 19 Community Yom HaShoah stories of injustice, suffering, resilience and Observance, Alpert JCC survival. Every rescued instrument has a story to on the Weinberg Jewish Long tell. Posters with those stories will be part of the Beach Campus, Niv Yom HaShoah commemoration. Ashkenazi, violinist For Jews enduring utter despair and unimaginable In support of the Violins of Hope project our Instruments on display at the during the Holocaust, music offered haven and community has adopted two violins: April 6–19 L.A. Museum of the Holocaust humanity. The strains of a beloved supplied The Buried Violin has been underwritten by solace, even if only for a few moments. The chords Jewish Long Beach; Drs. Matthew Davis and Mark April 21 Stories of Hope at the also provided a vital reminder that even the most Dressner, along with the Alpert Jewish Community Aquarium of the Pacific brutal regime could not rob them of their faith. No Center, have underwritten the German Violin with April 21–25 Educational presentations at matter what, their could be free. the . (See page 5 for further details.) area schools and universities In some cases, the ability to play the violin spared April 25 Violins of Hope at the Terrace Jewish musicians from more grueling labors or even Yom HaShoah Art Gallery Exhibit Theater . Nearly 50 years ago, Amnon Weinstein heard In addition to attending the Community April 26 of Hope at First such a story from a customer who brought in an Observance, community members are encouraged Congregational of instrument for restoration. The customer survived to visit the Zena & Pauline Gatov Exhibition Art Long Beach the Holocaust because his was to play the violin Gallery from March 29 – April 29, 2020 to view

4 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 EVENTS NEWS JEWISH LONG BEACH

The Stories of Two Violins Violins of Hope

German Violin with Star of David – , 1924 tried to secure visas to any country that would offer could not bear to part with the violin. “Go home This violin came to the Weinstein’s workshop them a chance to leave Europe. with your violin,” said the clerk, “and come back in very bad condition. The signs on it indicate His plan to support the family upon arriving in tomorrow with another. But don’t tell anyone I said that it was played in the worst conditions so.” The Herrmanns gave the violin to a imaginable. The top has no varnish and the Dutch friend, Yan Molder, for safekeeping inside parts are crudely glued and nailed in and not a moment too soon. On June 23, an unprofessional way. It appears to have 1943, they were arrested and imprisoned been played in a camp or and was by the Nazis and sent to the feared Bergen- repaired in any way possible, perhaps to Belsen concentration camp. Molder was give the owner a little more time to play it. afraid the Nazis would find Jewish owned The Weinsteins decided to leave this violin property in his possession, so he gave it to as is, so that viewers can see the condition a musician friend, who was equally fearful of some instruments when they arrive at of the German’s wrath and buried the violin the workshop — and perhaps, in seeing it, in his garden. imagine what some of these instruments Miraculously, Heinrich and Ilse and their owners had to endure at the Herrmann survived and in 1944 they were hands of the German Reich. traded for German citizens being expelled Generously underwritten by Drs. Mathew from the British Mandate of . A Davis and Dr. Mark Dressner on behalf of the year later, after the war ended, the violin Alpert Jewish Community Center. The German Violin has been left unrestored as a reminder of what their owners endured. was exhumed and brought to them in Palestine. Though badly damaged, it was The Buried Violin their new home relied on spending his life savings repaired and stayed close to Heinrich who played it Heinrich Herrmann grew up in Schwabach and to procure a rare, 150-year-old handmade violin for the next 40 years. in the South of , where he by a famous atelier of the Klotz family in , This instrument has been generously sponsored by learned to play the violin on an old, inexpensive Germany. Travelling with large amounts of money Jewish Long Beach. Gypsy instrument. He studied law and became could prove dangerous, but upon arrival he could a judge, but lost his position following the sell the extraordinary violin and recoup his savings. implementation of the due to his His plan was thwarted however, when all Jews Jewish identity. Fleeing to , he became a in Holland were forced to register with the Nazi typewriter salesman and met his wife, Ilse. Heinrich regime and surrender their valuables. He brought clung to his old, inexpensive violin and often played the instrument and told the clerk that although he chamber music with friends. In the mornings, he had no problem parting with his belongings, he

Jewish Long Beach Men’s Philanthropy: Above & Beyond 2020

By all measure, the 160 attendees of Above & Beyond 2020 had a great time, honoring 11 amazing men from across the Long Beach/West Orange County communities, while sampling whiskeys, beers, fine cigars, and grazing at the food stations.

From the top, clockwise: 1. 2020 Above and Beyond Honorees 2. Above and Beyond Chair, Marcos Weinstein 3. Eli Ben Shmuel and Jeb Brilliant enjoy the whiskey tasting 4. Generations enjoying the evening together, Sy and Bob Alban 5. Daryl Phillips, past president 6. Comedian Avi Liberman 7. Mike Gerber and Bud Adams enjoying the cigar lounge

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 5 COMMUNITY RABBINIC REFLECTIONS NEWS Making Prom a Special Night

Women’s Philanthropy of Jewish Long Beach will be hosting the third annual and Glitz AND present Glamour Prom Boutique on Sunday, April 5, from noon–3 pm at Prom Dress the Alpert JCC on the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus. This year we are partnering and Suit Drive with Crest and have also received a generous Give every teenager in our community a chance to grant from the Port of Long Beach to help needy high go to Prom feeling amazing school students who could otherwise not afford to attend their senior prom. Event co- chairs are Suojanen WHAT TO DONATE: WHERE TO DROP OFF: and Sara Schmidt. Approximately 30–40 Prom Dress Mon- Sat 10-5 volunteers will be spending Bridesmaid Dress the day creating and staffing 17800 Woodruff Ave. the boutique. We expect to Evening Gown Bellflower, Ca 90706 provide clothing and accessories to 200–300 high school men and Suit women from the cities of Long Tie Beach and Bellflower. We also Mon-Sat 10-5 have volunteers who provide Dress Shirt onsite alterations. 6545 E. Pacific Coast Hwy. If you want to drop off Dress shoes/ Heels Long Beach, Ca 90803 clothing, please see the ad Purses/ Jewelry on this page for drop-off locations. In addition to Cards those locations, you can also Mon-Fri 9-5 drop off dresses, shirts, suits, shoes etc., at the Community Lauren Friedman on Sunday, Thank you Keller Williams Real Estate, Team Pennywise March 8, from noon–3 pm. 2883 East Spring St. STE. 100 to our We also will accept gift Long Beach, Ca 90806 Sponsor 562.506.3352

Contact for more information: at 562.805.0036 or [email protected] certificates to hair and nail www.jewishlongbeach.org Jewish Long Beach is a (501) (C) 3 TAX ID: #95-1647830 salons or other service/ www.olivecrest.com Olive Crest is a 501(C) 3 Organization TAX ID: #95-2877102 retail stores. There will be opportunities to volunteer the day of the boutique and in the preceding Advertise in the bi-monthly Chronicle and reach 7,000 it. If you would like to homes in the Greater Long Beach and West Orange County volunteer, please email: promdresslongbeach@ areas. For further information, e-mail: gmail.com. [email protected] for further information.

6 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 NEWS COMMUNITY

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 7 COMMUNITY RABBINIC REFLECTIONS NEWS Being Jewish – Opting In or Opting Out Synagogue Rabbi Yitzchak Newman | Rabbinic Contributor Directory Two chance meetings the office of a prominent generations. It is no surprise Rabbi Yitzchak Beit HaLev (I) broadcast personality a that our members are opting Newman, Head P.O. Box 2279 got me thinking. As I was of Hebrew Seal Beach, CA 90740 Contact: Rabbi Galit Levy-Slater visiting a good friend in a similar experience occurred. out of being involved in Academy; Phone: 562-493-2680 home overlooking the ocean, By his invitation, I joined the community in larger Rabbi, Email: [email protected] his Jewish acquaintance a meeting with this friend numbers. The engagement of Congregation Website: www.galityomtov.com­­­ Lubavitch Beth David (R) happened to be there. The, and another individual. In the past was not sufficient to 6100 Hefley St. Westminster, CA 92683 almost weekly, visits with the middle of our discussion keep our members active. chance Contact: Rabbi Nancy Myers about a Jewish-related In stark contrast to my Phone: 714-892-6623 my friend always generated happenings Email: [email protected] lively conversation, including a subject, he quipped to his chance encounters, are those but intentional choices. Website: www.templebethdavid.org session of study and . I friend that he wouldn’t planned visits with alum of In fact, statistics reported Chabad of Los Alamitos & Cypress (O) 12340 Seal Beach Blvd. Suite B-219 enjoyed a warm conversation understand these matters, the Hebrew Academy Jewish by the Jewish Population Seal Beach, CA 90740 Contact: Rabbi Shmuel Marcus about his acquaintance’s life to which his friend quickly Day School who graduated Study find that Jewish day Phone: 714-828-1851 story. replied “Why? I am Jewish!” almost 40 years ago. For Email: [email protected] school education is the Website: www.chabadlosal.com He had traveled the world This certainly sparked instance, one is a prominent strongest determinant, by Chabad of West Orange County/ living in opulent areas in an animated conversation. lawyer in the entertainment far, of involvement in the Congregation Adat Israel (O) 5052 Warner Ave. Europe, had major real What I discovered was that industry for one of the major Jewish community. Students Huntington Beach, CA 92649 Contact: Rabbi Aron estate holdings, and was in he grew up just a few miles studios. In addition to giving who, in their early years, Phone: 714-846-2285 the middle of producing two from my home in Dorchester, his children a Jewish day learn in a Email: [email protected] Website: www.chabadhb.com movies. It was quite apparent – a lantsman school education, he has environment that teaches Congregation Lubavitch (O) that he felt very successful at that. Although he was taken a leadership role in the Judaism and models Jewish 3981 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90807 in life. As I was holding a Mitzvahed, he had no Jewish community, including values, grow up to be proud Contact: Rabbi Yitzchok Newman Phone: 562-596-1681 pair of in my hand, I involvement in the Jewish serving as president of a well-educated Jews who Email: [email protected] asked him if he knew what community since his arrival Jewish day school in Los remain in our community for Congregation Shir Chadash (I) they were. After he said that to California 40 years earlier. Angeles. a lifetime. 6440 Del Amo Blvd. Lakewood, CA 90713 he had no idea, I asked him In both cases their children Another visit brought me As for the two fine Contact: Rabbi Mariana Gindlin Phone: 562-429-0715 if he ever had a Bar were not encouraged to to a leading cardiologist who gentleman who I recently Email: [email protected] to which he replied to the connect to their Jewish roots. has also made the smart met by chance, they accepted Website: www.CongregationShirChadash.org It has become quite clear choice to send his children Congregation Sholom of negative. my offer to put on tefillin and Leisure World, Seal Beach (C) I came to find out that through these and numerous to a Jewish day school and is say a prayer. After a rather Mail to: PO Box 2901 he was a child of holocaust other firsthand encounters very active in his temple. lengthy conversation urging Seal Beach, CA 90740 Meet at: Clubhouse 3, Room 9 survivors who had given him that, increasingly, our members With thousands of alum of them to engage Jewishly, I am 1421 Northwood Road no background in his heritage. are disappearing from our the Hebrew Academy over a Seal Beach, CA 90740 hopeful that they will connect Fridays 7:00 PM, and Saturdays 9:30 AM In his 60-something years, Jewish community. If this 50-year period, I have visited to the Jewish community. If Contact: President Carol A. Stern Levine Phone: Direct - 562-505-3622 he had made little connection holds true with the older hundreds of our students they were younger I would Phone: Membership - 562-430-7040 to the Jewish community. folks it is even a greater and the involvement and have enrolled them at Email: [email protected] P’nai Or (I) Just a little while later, in reality with our young leadership I find are not Hebrew Academy. 3955 N. Studebaker Road Long Beach, CA 90808 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pnaior.org Shul By The Shore (O) Congregational Activities 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, California 90815 Contact: Rabbi Abba Perelmuter The Journey Begins with Purim Online Paint As You Like Camp JCA Shalom Holds Phone: 562-621-9828 Email: [email protected] the First Step On Monday, March 9, at On Sunday, April 19, an Informational Session Website: www.shulbytheshore.org P’nai Or will be gathering 6:00pm, Beit HaLev will Temple Beth will host Camp JCA-Shalom will Surf City Synagogue (C) to tell the story of Passover Services held at the HB Central Library present a livestream Purim filmmaker, Ryan Fenton- be hosting an informational 7111 Talbert Ave. on Thursday, April 9th, Shpiel, “Everyone Can’t Be Strauss as he presents his meeting about its Summer Huntington Beach Phone: 714-596-2220 while using of ” by Meredith Shaw award-winning documentary, 2020 programs at Temple E-Mail: [email protected] our ancestors as a Patera. The live, interactive, Paint As You Like.” Beth Shalom, on Tuesday, Temple Beth Ohr (R) 15721 E. Rosecrans Ave. for coming out of our own online play will be on The movie is about his March 10, 6–8pm., led by La Mirada, CA 90638 personal “.” Along Facebook.com/galityomtov father, Camp Director Joel Charnick. Contact: Rabbi Mark Goldfarb Phone: 714-521-6765 with the traditional four and YouTube.com on the artist Email:[email protected] questions we ask ourselves: channel, “Shabbat Shalom Website: www.tbolm.org Temple Beth Shalom (C) What are you a slave to? LIVE!” All the parts will Fenton. 3635 Elm Avenue What does it mean, both be played by Rabbi Galit R y a n Long Beach, CA 90807 Contact: Rabbi David Cantor communally and personally, Shirah. takes an Phone: 562-426-6413 Fax: 562-426-7824 to leave bondage and gain The livestream emotional journey through Email: [email protected] freedom? Services for the 1st and his father’s life as an artist, Website: www.tbslb.org We are looking forward 7th Days of Passover are while exploring universal (R) 269 Loma Ave. to going on the Passover on Thursday, April 9 at themes. What is success? Long Beach, CA 90803 Contact: Interim Rabbi James Simon journey with you. It’s time to 10:30am and Thursday, What is failure? What is art? The event is open to Phone: 562-434-0996 Email: [email protected] come out of . April 16 at 10:30am on This program is part of parents and kids. Camp staff Website: www.tilb.org Please go to our website Facebook.com/galityomtov TBO’s Adult Education and camp alumni will be Temple Ner Tamid of Downey (I) www.pnaior.org for further and YouTube.com on the Lecture Series and is open onhand to answer questions. 10629 Lakewood Boulevard Downey, CA 90241 details and to make a “Shabbat Shalom LIVE!” to the public, free of charge. Free pizza with RSVP Contact: Rabbi Mehlman Phone: 562-861-9276 reservation. Channel. A pdf is Refreshments will be to Lori Brockman, Family Email: [email protected] available on Rabbi Galit’s served. RSVP to Temple Relations Coordinator Website: www.downeytemplenertamid.org Facebook page (Facebook. Beth Ohr 714.521.6765 or by 818.889.5500, ext. 111. (C)=Conservative (I)=Independent com/galityomtov). email to [email protected] (O)=Orthodox (R)=Reform

8 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 NEWS COMMUNITY Jewish Long Beach Grant Spotlight: Hebrew Academy and Jewish Family & Children’s Services Wishing Your Family Pattie Davidson | JFCS Director of Development and Communications a appy assover On page 3 of this issue of As a result of this partnership, We value our relationship H P the Chronicle, Jewish Long our students from grades with The Hebrew Academy Beach CEO Zach Benjamin K-12 have been able to receive and share a common goal of describes the collaborations individual counseling, targeted ensuring that students have Judi & Arthur Gelb & Family being fostered by the grant- small group workshops, and the support they need to be making program initiated by explicit social emotional successful as they mature Jewish Long Beach. One of the skills training as part of into adulthood,” said Kathryn grants awarded helps fund their standard curriculum. Miles, JFCS executive director. a partnership between The In a Jewish school that is JFCS Clinician Monica Mittal Hebrew Academy and Jewish committed to whole child adds, “My role as a counselor Wishing You a Family & Children’s Service education, this component of is to guide students as they of Long Beach & West Orange our program is invaluable. The successfully navigate their County (JFCS). professional counselors are academic, emotional and eaningful eder For five of the last six as skillful as they are caring. personal development. We M S years, this grant has provided Their work has expanded the work individually and in small partial funding for JFCS’ capacity of our and groups to give students a safe presence on the campus of administration to support and supportive environment & a Wonderful The Hebrew Academy to the emotional needs of our to develop skills in conflict provide counseling services to students. The counseling resolution, coping strategies, students and their families. program at JFCS has enabled and communication tools. Passover Dr. Bryn Harari, principal us to reach our goals and live These skills can be used of The Hebrew Academy is into our vision for whole child throughout their lives.” an enthusiastic supporter of education,” said Harari. the school’s partnership with “We are so pleased to be Rosecarrie & JFCS. “The Hebrew Academy awarded this grant from JLB has benefited tremendously to have our counselors on from the counseling program campus each to work Dr. Alan Brooks grant from Jewish Long Beach. with students as needed.

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 9 COMMUNITY ALPERT JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

MESSAGE FROM THE AJCC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As spring approaches, we find ourselves moving into another season of . Tu B’ is behind us and ahead are Purim and Pesach, followed closely by . Although we don’t ordinarily think about it, there are a of interesting connections between Purim and Pesach. They are both, stories of : Purim is about the salvation of the Jewish people from the genocidal plans of , and Passover is about the salvation of the Jewish people from the Egyptian Pharoh.

In addition to Purim and Pesach being connected, they also have something very important in common—the emphasis on . On Purim, we are instructed to give to the poor. On Pesach, the tells us that even the poorest person was given four cups of for the Seder. Jews traditionally provide wine on the eve of Pesach so that everyone can celebrate the Seder properly.

Since both Purim and Pesach celebrate survival and redemption, it is traditional to have large, festive meals. On both holidays, hospitality is featured, and great care is taken to include all members of the community. Here at the J and at every synagogue in the area, we make sure that there is a place for everyone during Passover. This is because survival and redemption include the entire community, no matter what age, tax bracket, or family situation. And when celebrating survival, we want to make sure we celebrate as a community, bringing everyone together. So, if you need a seat at a Seder—or you know someone who does—please reach out to me or your local synagogue. There is always a place for you.

There are a lot of opportunities for the community to come together and help give back during this spring season of survival and redemption. At the J, we give out shalach manot (Purim baskets), and for Passover we pack up meals for Senior Outreach to ensure our community members who are homebound have food. You can also donate to our Mitzvah to Matzah campaign to help us provide holiday food and baskets for our seniors.

I hope that on Purim and Passover—and all the days in between—you will take some time to reflect on how we as a community work together to make sure everyone is welcome and how you, personally, can help ensure that our community continues to thrive. L’Shalom,Jeffrey Rips SENIOR ADULTS JEWISH LIFE & CULTURE Dr. Susan Mathieu, (562) 426-7601 x1721 Dana Schneider-Chanzit, (562) 426-7601 x1067 [email protected] [email protected]

Purim Luncheon, Sponsored by NCJW Ladies Craft, Games and Wine Night Wednesday | March 11 | 12pm Thursday | March 12 | 6:30-8:30pm Delicious Dairy Luncheon with delicious Hamantaschen. Entertainment by Join us for a ladies night. Connect with women in our community and local singer song-writers, “Feter & Lisa”. They play a mix of original and creative enjoy crafts, games, wine and snacks. $15 in advance | $18 at the door arrangements of country, bluegrass, Americana Southern Rock and . FREE Passover Cooking Class with Dana Wednesday | March 25 | 6-8:30pm Senior Luncheon Learn to make some fun Passover foods, candied matzah, potato , charoset, Wednesday | March 25 | 12pm matzah bri and bitter herb salad. Enjoy a glass of wine while we cook together. Healthy veggie pizza, caesar salad and fresh seasonal organic fruit cup. Hands on learning, try all the foods we make and go home with printed recipes. Entertainment by, “The Retro Swing Band”. They specializes in Jazz, Swing, Everyone must register in advance. $36 Members | $50 Non Members Standards, and Ballroom dance music from the early 20th century. $7 Members | $8 Non Members Yom HaShoah Art Gallery Show March 29-April 29 Passover Outreach - Can you help? Faces of Resilience, Faith and the Human Spirit: Bill Aron, Dina Dar & Dave Fox Monday | April 6 9:30am Packing | 11:00am Driving Yom Hashoah Art Gallery Reception: Sunday | March 29 | 3-5pm Our Passover outreach program is for senior adults who are homebound or who are living in skilled nursing facilities. We are packing and driving in the morning. Can you drive and/or Pack? Beginning Mah Jongg Class Please contact Susan Mathieu at [email protected] or (562) 426-7601 x1721 Mondays | April 20, 27 & May 4 | 6:30-8:30pm Join us for this beginners class series that will teach you to play American Enjoy a Beautiful Passover Luncheon & Passover Program Mah Jongg. Students will learn tile recognition, strategy and rules. Each student Wednesday | April 15 | 12pm receives an official NMJL playing card and will be able to “ your Mahj On” Ball Soup & Schmura Matzo, Slow-Roasted and Gravy, Potato Kugle, with friends by the end of the series. $75 Members | $95 Non Members Green Beans, , Charoses, Assorted Macaroons Beautiful songs and led by Dana Schneider Chanzit, Director of Jewish Life & Culture The Band is looking for additional band members! $7 Members | $8 Non Members They are in need of a drummer, a saxophonist, a clarinet and violin players. Interested, please call Gordon Lentzner at (562) 972-2100

3801 East Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815 www.alpertjcc.org • (562) 426-7601

10 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 ALPERT JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER COMMUNITY

Follow Us On SOCIAL MEDIA @AlpertJCC @Alpert_JCC

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 11 COMMUNITY HEBREW ACADEMY Celebrate Hebrew Academy Visionary Dinner

The Hebrew Academy is proud to announce that our annual Visionary Dinner will take place this year on Sunday, March 1, 2020, at the magnificent Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills. We are honoring very special people who value the vital importance Leslie and Mark Werksman of : Mark and Leslie Werksman who will be receiving the Visionary Award, and receiving the Partners in Education award will be Morris and Sharon Silver. We will also have our Hebrew Alumni, which will represent the graduating class of 1992-1993 and receive the Young Leadership Award for their accomplishments Sharon and Morris Silver in the community. The evening will again be hosted by television personality Elon Gold, along with a special guest entertainer. The Visionary Dinner is the Hebrew Academy’s major fundraising event and the signature evening of the year. The event celebrates Jewish education and the continued accomplishments of the Hebrew Academy that serves over a thousand youngsters annually. The funds that are raised benefit the school’s scholarship fund, insuring that all children, regardless of their background, will have access to the exemplary educational and social programs that the organization offers. Over a million dollars is distributed annually through the scholarship fund. The evening opens with appetizers and wine tasting in a stunning courtyard of the Four Seasons followed by a spectacular Four Seasons dinner leading to awards, entertainment, and the pleasure of the Hebrew Academy’s young ! We welcome everyone to socialize, meet the Hebrew Academy’s leading supporters, make important connections and demonstrate a commitment to Jewish education in the Hebrew Academy way. If you are interested in attending this event and/or want more information, please call Jenny at the Hebrew Academy at 714.898.0051 ext. 223 or cell: 909.559.5674 email [email protected]. We look forward to greeting you on Sunday, March 1, 2020, to celebrate together.

Award Winning Academics in a Genuine Jewish Environment 14401 Willow Lane • Huntington Beach, CA 92647 • 714.898.0051 www.hacds.org Camp Silver Gan Israel: www.campsgi.com

12 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 HILLEL NEWS COMMUNITY Things are Happening at Hillel CSULB Jewish Studies Program Beach Hillel staff, students and The Comedy of Betrothal board members were thrilled to CSULB Jewish Studies Program is very pleased to present a rather different honor super donor James Breslauer program. In the spirit of Purim, on March 10, starting at 7:30pm, at the Alpert at the Above and Beyond 2020 Jewish JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus. we will offer readings from Long Beach, Men’s Philanthropy and discussion of a historic (play). Fifty years before Shakespeare Event on February 6. wrote The Merchant of Venice, Leone Thank you to Jim and Liz for their de’ Sommi wrote Tzahut bedihuta de- wonderful support of Hillel! kiddushin (The Comedy of Betrothal), the oldest known Hebrew-language play. It combines features of Italian commedia What do you do on dell’ arte with elements from biblical the first day of the new and . This interactive semester? Hang out at performance-symposium examines the Beach Hillel! Comedy against the backdrop of the history of the Jews of and explores Students love our new Leone de’ Sommi’s dramatic art; his use of classical Jewish sources; and the space on campus. They significance of the Comedy of Betrothal’s location in Sidon, . can enjoy snacks, , The readings will be in English with samplings of Italian and Hebrew a filtered water machine, for , all done in a free-flowing irreverent manner that is entertaining, our own Jewish library and use the printer set up for their use. humorous, and informative. Presenters: Ariane Helou (UCLA), Erith Jaffe- Berg (UC Riverside), Elsa Martinez (UCLA), and Kokin (UCLA Beach Hillel just returned and Universität Greifswald). from an 11 day trip to Israel with 23 CSULB student Making Sense of Contemporary Israeli leaders! These students After three national elections in less than two years, not to mention pending spent their winter vacation indictments of Prime Netanyahu and a new American peace plan, exploring Israel, as well as contemporary Israeli politics are more intricate and confusing than usual. the Palesinian Authority, Our April speaker, Dr. Dov Waxman, will help sort it all including a beautiful visit to when he speaks on April 22 at 7:30 pm, at the Alpert JCC. the Kotel. Dr. Dov Waxman is the new Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Chair in Israel Studies at UCLA, where Student leaders and the Hillel he also directs the UCLA Y&S Nazarian Center for Israel staff enjoyed their last night in Studies. He joined the UCLA faculty in January 2020. Israel by visiting the ancient city Professor Waxman’s research focuses on the conflict over

of . Dr. Dov Waxman Israel-Palestine, Israeli politics and foreign policy, U.S.- Israel relations, American Jewry’s relationship with Israel, Jewish politics, and anti-Semitism. He is the author of dozens of scholarly articles and four on Israel and the peace process, most recently, The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: What Everyone Needs to Know. Jewish Studies events are free and open to the public – no need to RSVP. For further information email [email protected]. Suffrage! A History in Word and Song On Sunday, March 15, join the NCJW at the Alpert Jewish Community Center for a rollicking evening of historical protest songs and impassioned pleas in honor of the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote! Come hear Susan The Long Beach State chapter of Students Supporting B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Harry Burn, Sojourner Truth, Alice Paul Israel welcomed LTC Ret. Eyal Dror of the IDF to talk and many more. The performance is part of the Long Beach about Operation Good Neighbor, in which Israel Suffrage 100 organization’s year-long commemoration of the helped Syrian civilians suffering during the civil War. centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. , giving women the right to vote. The first 100 people signing in at the event at the performace will receive a Susan B. Anthony $1 coin!

Beach Hillel Student President David Rowe, 7:00 - 7:25pm Registration and refreshments enjoying a very special moment at the . 7:00 - 7:15pm NCJW LB Election 2020-21 slate – for members 7:30pm - 9:00pm Performance in auditorium followed by refreshments We are asking for recommended donations of $10 – 20 to cover 14401 Willow Lane • Huntington Beach, CA 92647 costs; no one will be turned away! www.hacds.org 714.898.0051 Camp Silver Gan Israel: www.campsgi.com This event is open to the Public. Parking is free.

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 13 COMMUNITY PASSOVER GREETINGS

Happy Wishing Happy Passover Passover our amily Y F Barbara, Mark and Keith Jessie Butler & Family Ruimys,Golds, A Happy Wolfe Hoffmans & Hardys Passover! From the Staff, Chag Pesach Chag Board & Volunteers of the S a m e a c h Pesach BARBARA AND RAY ALPERT Sameach JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF LONG BEACH Cecelia & Danny Danziger

Chag Pesach Sameach Wishing Bob & Sandy Rips From Our Your amily to our F Y Family Wishing Family, Wishing a Happy Your Family You a Happy Passover Passover Sadie & A Happy David Sacks Andrea & Don Kaiser Passover! & Family

Barbara & Leon Shoag Chag Pesach Sameach Wishing Carol Klein & Family You a Happy Wishing Your Family Wishing Your Family Passover A Happy Passover A Happy Passover Susan & Renee Simon Family Bobbi Gershon & Family Mark Paletz 䀽 �   ✡ � 䀽 ✡ � 䀽 �   ✡ �  䀽  er Happy P  䀽 ssover  Happy � ov  assove 䀽  � �    a P s r r P as   s 䀽  � y sov a ✡ � Ha  e pp  � �  er  ✡ ppy 䀽 ✡ v ✡ Ha  P � Passo sso �   䀽 ✡   Happy  �   �   ver  Happy Pa 

14 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 PASSOVER GREETINGS COMMUNITY

Wishing Your Wishing Chag Pesach Family a Happy Your Family Sameach Passover A Happy assover Jeffrey, Lauren, Ellie, P ! Wishing & Rips Shirley Ross Our Jewish Community, On Passover, May Wishing You and Here, in Israel You Be Blessed and Around with appiness Your Family a H the World, Sandy & Daryl Phillips Happy Passover a Joyful, Sara, Rich, Max Peaceful and Isla Brown Leslie & and Healthy Jamie, Joshua and Kern Thea Holzman Passover

Wishing From the Your Family Happy and Joyful Board, Leadership, a Happy Passover! and Staff of Passover Jewish Long Laurie & Beach Arlene & Robert Raykoff Rick Freeman 䀽 �   ✡ � 䀽 ✡ � 䀽 �   ✡ �  䀽  er Happy P  䀽 ssover  Happy � ov  assove 䀽  � �    a P s r r P as   s 䀽  � y sov a ✡ � Ha  e pp  � �  er  ✡ ppy 䀽 ✡ v ✡ Ha  P � Passo sso �   䀽 ✡   Happy  �   �   ver  Happy Pa 

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 15 COMMUNITY TRIBUTES

JEWISH IN MEMORY OF 2020 ARLENE 2020 ABOVE AND LONG BEACH • Birth of your grandson • Gene Lentzner SOLOMON VISIONS BEYOND Barrad Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law IN HONOR OF BEING IN RECOGNITION OF GENERAL FUND to Nancy & Jeff Barrad to Judi & Gordon NAMED A WOMAN OF BEING NAMED AN IN MEMORY OF From Jewish Long Beach Board, VISION HONOREE • June Rubin Lentzner Leadership & Staff From Sanford & Linda Simmons • Ava Weiss–AJCC • Howard Weiss–AJCC to Steve Rubin MAZEL TOV IN MEMORY OF • Florence Sudakow–Beth • Robin Harrison–Beth David From Judith Adams • Birth of your granddaughter David • Asher Litwin–Congregation IN MEMORY OF • Gene Lentzner Gabriela Maycie Anthony Beloved Husband & Father • Ronya Fajnland– Lubavitch • Eddie Perlstein to David & Marcia to Ann, Alan & Jay Congregation Lubavitch • Eli Benzaken–Hebrew Beloved Husband • Fran Itkoff–Congregation Academy to Elaine Perlstein Senteno Lentzner From Jewish Long Beach Board, From Sanford & Linda Simmons Shir Chadash • Mike Greenspan–Jewish From Jewish Long Beach Board, Leadership & Staff IN MEMORY OF • Chanie Perelmuter–Hebrew Family & Children’s Service Leadership & Staff Academy • Richard Marcus–Jewish IN MEMORY OF • Gene Lentzner GENE LENTZNER Beloved Husband & Father • Gail Levy–Jewish Family & Long Beach June Rubin LEADERSHIP FUND Children’s Service • Jim Breslauer–Long Beloved Wife to Ann, Alan & Jay IN MEMORY OF Lentzner • Lauren Friedman and Beach Hillel to Herman Rubin • Gene Lentzner From Karen & Tim Strelitz & Family Rachel Suojanen–Jewish • David Valtierra–Shul by From Jewish Long Beach Board, Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law Long Beach Leadership & Staff IN MEMORY OF the Shore to Judi & Gordon • Gene Lentzner • Linda Simmons–Long • Doug Kotkin–Temple IN MEMORY OF Lentzner • Michael Isadore Reiss Beloved Husband & Father Beach Hillel Beth Ohr From Lea & Dennis Gerber to Ann Lentzner • Sherri Sobel–National • Ned Gaylord–Temple Beloved Father & Father-in-law IN MEMORY OF From Arlene & Rick Freeman Council of Jewish Women to Linda Klein & Lynn • Gene Lentzner Beth Shalom Zdonek N MEMORY OF • Marilyn Yassin–Sharon- • Barry Mitnick–Temple Beloved Husband & Father • Gene Lentzner Carmel Hadassah From Jewish Long Beach Board, to Ann, Alan & Jay Israel to the Lentzner Family • Lisa Bermundo–Shul by Leadership & Staff Lentzner From Binnie & Jack Berro IN MEMORY OF From Susan Stuhlbarg the Shore From Lea & Dennis Gerber 2020 ANNUAL FUND • Rhea Dersh IN MEMORY OF • Donna Berglas-Hess– Beloved Mother GERDA SEIFER YOM Temple Beth Ohr IN MEMORY OF • Gene Lentzner HASHOAH FUND • & Herbert Sugarman to Cindy Schein Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law • Dorothy Shapiro–Temple From Jewish Long Beach Board, THANK YOU Beth Shalom From Larry Sugarman to Judi & Gordon • Jean Feldman IN HONOR OF Leadership & Staff • Ann Martin–Temple Lentzner From Gerda & Harold Seifer • Zach Benjamin IN MEMORY OF Israel • Irwin Schultz From Lyn & Joel Epstein THANK YOU From Jeffrey S. Winston IN MEMORY OF • Kenny Schlesinger From Binnie & Jack Berro Beloved Father & Father-in-law IN HONOR OF BEING • Gene Lentzner From Gerda Seifer Jewish Long Beach tributes: to Carl & Janet Schultz NAMED A WOMAN OF Beloved Husband & Father THINKING OF YOU 562.426.7601 ext. 1314 From Jewish Long Beach Board, VISION to Ann Lentzner & Family • Diane Guest Leadership & Staff • Gail Levy From Ruthie & Al Rudis From Gerda & Harold Seifer IN MEMORY OF From & Larry Raful IN MEMORY OF THINKING OF YOU • Duane Craven • Gene Lentzner Beloved Husband • Julie Alban Beloved Husband & Father From Gerda & Harold Seifer to Sheila Craven to Ann, Alan & Jay From Jewish Long Beach Board, THINKING OF YOU Lentzner Leadership & Staff • Shirley Feiwell May their memory be a blessing IN MEMORY OF From Lyn & Joel Epstein From Gerda & Harold Seifer • Duane Craven IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF Frieda Rapoport Caplan • Gene Lentzner Beloved Husband • Gene Lentzner Duane Craven to Sheila Craven Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law Beloved Husband to Judi & Gordon From Linda & Sanford Simmons to Ann Lentzner Rhea Dersh IN MEMORY OF Lentzner From Gerda & Harold Seifer Joel Friedland • Damian From Judi & Arthur Gelb IN MEMORY OF Beloved Husband IN MEMORY OF • Barbara & Gene Lentzner to Erin Medina • Gene Lentzner to their family Damian Medina Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law From Jewish Long Beach Board, From Gerda & Harold Seifer to Judi & Gordon Eddie Perlstein Leadership & Staff IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF Lentzner • Thelma Teitel Michael Isadore Reiss From Leslie & Aaron Kern • Norman Slomann From Gerda & Harold Seifer June Rubin to Gail Webster IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF From Arlene & Rick Freeman • Gene Lentzner • Nancy Speizer Gail Francine Rudnick Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law IN MEMORY OF Beloved Mother Irwin Schultz • Norman Slomann to Judi & Gordon to the Family to Gail Webster Lentzner From Gerda & Harold Seifer Norman Slomann From Daryl & Sandy Phillips From Sandeep Hindupur IN MEMORY OF Thelma Teitel MAZEL TOV IN MEMORY OF • Barbara Alpert • Gene Lentzner • Birth of your great- Beloved Mother We extend our condolences to the families and friends of those who grandson Levi Joseph Barrad Beloved Brother & Brother-in-law to the Family have recently lost a loved one. If you know of someone who has to Helen Barrad to Judi & Gordon From Gerda & Harold Seifer recently passed and would like them recognized in our publication, From Jewish Long Beach Board, Lentzner please send your request to: [email protected] Leadership & Staff From Daryl & Sandy Phillips

16 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 TRIBUTES COMMUNITY

JFCS IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF • Marion Stein • Gene Lentzner • Charlotte Moskowitz • Norman Solommann Beloved Mother Beloved Husband & Father Tommy Nernan From Joyce & Mike Greenspan GENERAL FUND to Matt & Terra Stein to Ann Lentzner & Family IN MEMORY OF IN HONOR OF From Shirley Ross Gene Lentzner For AJCC tributes please call: • Gary & Lindsey Fields From Deb & Rob Feldman IN MEMORY OF MARCIE BALAN From Joyce & Mike Greenspan 562.426.7601 ext. 1414 From Jenna Fields • Katherine Alexander BLAKEY FUND IN HONOR OF PRINCESS Beloved Mother IN MEMORY OF ABBY’S NAMING • Jean Blakey • Britney & Aaron Krugman to Suzie Alexander & Gary Stolzoff Beloved Mother Wishing Your From Binnie & Jack Berro From Deb & Rob Feldman to the Blakey Family HAPPY TO From Paul & Marie Brindze • Gail Levy IN MEMORY OF To make a JFCS tribute, please call: From Marlene Beach, Barbara & • Jacob Wander Family a Happy 562.427.7916 Lee Shoag to Carol Wander IN HONOR OF From William Wander • Rabbi Mark & Deborah IN MEMORY OF AJCC & Healthy Goldfarb • Frieda Caplan PAULA BLUM SENIOR From Binnie & Jack Berro Beloved Mother ADULT FUND IN HONOR OF to Jackie Caplan IN MEMORY OF Passover • Norma Stein and JFCS Wiggins and Karen • Charlotte Moskowitz Board of Directors 2020 Caplan From The Playmates From Binnie & Jack Berro From Myrna & Len Simon IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF • Charlotte Moskowitz Bobby Kronick, Jann • Paul Weiss • Richard Slavett From Jean & Frank Dayak Beloved Husband Beloved Partner IN MEMORY OF to Margie Weiss to Andrea Jacobs • Charlotte Moskowitz Kronick-Gath, Chance Gath From Deb & Rob Feldman From Gail & Tom Levy From Joan Scarcella The Bob Baldwin Memorial Fund Grants for Teens/Young Adults for Travel and Study Programs to Israel APPLY TODAY FOR A GRANT SHARON KENIGSBERG 562.426.7601 ext. 1008 [email protected]

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 17 COMMUNITY IN MEMORIAM The Legacy of an Incomparable Leader – Gene Lentzner

Coalition which provides members who represent our generation of leaders. This also an obligation to ensure health care to disadvantaged tradition’s imperative to seek led them in 2016 to create that what you have done in children. He also co-chaired justice wherever it is needed, the Lentzner Fellows your lifetime continues. the Long Beach Human to take on challenges and Program, of what is now Bequests and other Relations Commission and build bridges to communal Jewish Long Beach, which Legacy gifts enable the helped establish the Human organizations. provides funds to mentor community to get through Dignity Program. He has At the inaugural Legacy future leaders. Since 2016, hard times and in good times sat on many boards and of Leadership event 14 individuals are proud to these gifts enable us to further has worked as an ally in the honoring Gene for his work call themselves Lentzner strengthen our institutions.” African American, and also celebrating his Fellows and they have been Gene also said that “if we On February 2, 2020 and Cambodian communities. 85th birthday, Gene shared serving in instrumental roles believe that what we worked we lost a beloved member Gene was deeply the following words about on the task forces that led for was important, we should of our community and committed to his work within how much he loved working to formation of Jewish Long leave a legacy that builds and legendary leader with the our Jewish Community and for the community, “My Beach and on other strategic perpetuates what we stood for.” passing of Gene Lentzner. from the early days of the experience in doing this boards and committees. Matt Gene was known in the Federation was a dedicated has been incredible. I have Paretsky, Lentzner Fellow, Long Beach Community for fundraiser for the annual learned a great deal, eaten and now chair of the Jewish his tireless work combatting campaign and went on some wonderful meals and Long Beach Community bigotry, , inequality and to become president of the I have actually been able to engagement committee said, hate crimes. He served as both the contribute. We can all help “Gene Lentzners support president and treasurer of the and Jewish Community each other. Most of all we can and commitment to the CCEJ (California Conference Foundation (now Jewish Long learn to live together. And development of future of Equality & Justice), which Beach). He also served as a that would be my greatest generations of Jewish learners established the Gene Lentzner past president of Temple Israel. birthday wish”. had a direct impact on me and Human Relations Award, helped enable me to contribute presented to persons whose Pursuer of Justice Building the Future of the to our community in many work at the grass roots level Gene’s dedication led the Jewish Community ways. I sat at the Federation contributes to the betterment Federation & Foundation to Gene and his wife, board table with Gene Gene has truly inspired of human relations. create the The Rodef Tzedek Ann, felt strongly that the many times and was always others and was a shining Gene served as the Chair (Pursuer of Justice) Award, Jewish Community could impressed and moved by his example for all Jewish leaders, on all three major Boards at of which Gene was the first not survive into the future engagement and dedication he will be deeply missed by St. Mary Medical Center. He recipient in 2007. This without the cultivation to our community”. Another all who knew him. Let us founded the Healthy Kids award honors community and training of the next fellow, Sunny Zia remarked, remember his words and “Thank you Gene for giving deeds and carry on his legacy. me the Jewishhonor ofCommunity a lifetime Print GeneAd – USis survived& by his in being one of your first beloved wife of 68 years, Ann LentznerIt's fellows. simple You to inspired customize Lentzner, this ad sonsfor your Jay Lentznerlocation. all of us to emulate you and and Alan Lentzner, daughter- Taking care of your lasting1. Click legacy "Change in L’Dor Document in-law " Nancy at theLentzner, top of the page and updategrandson to include David size, Lentzner, date and each other is what V’Dor. 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Click "Finish" to generate a PDF with crop marks. EDEN MEMORIAL PARK Judi & Gordon Lentzner have awarded annually to an MISSION - HILLS Then, click “Download" and select “Original" or endowed “Moderate"the Jewish Longfor a print-readyemerging file.leader, providing GromanEdenMortuary.com Beach Major Gifts Events. her or him with funding to 800-522-4875 In the OR, February click “Save" 2016 to continueattend the workingJewish Federations later. Chronicle articleYour adhighlighting will appear ofin MyNorth Documents America’s >General Drafts. the creation of Lentzner Assembly or another Fellows Gene stated “I Jewishly-focused conference believe that while you are or workshop. Those wishing here you should give and to contribute to this fund can FD 1070 / COA 450 participate to the best of do so at jewishlongbeach.org your abilities. However, it is or by calling 562.426.7601.

18 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020 EVENTS NEWS JEWISH LONG BEACH

Chag Pesach Sameach Deborah & Rabbi Mark Goldfarb

Thursday @ 8 am Shabbat Service @ 6 pm Shabbat Service @ 10am Sunday Minyan @ 9:15am

3635 Elm Avenue Long Beach, CA 90807 Phone: 562-426-6413 Website: tbslb.org

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5780 ADAR-NISAN-IYAR | 19 The Jewish Community Chronicle Non-Profit Organization Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus U.S. Postage 3801 E. Willow Street, Long Beach, CA 90815 PAID Permit No.129 Postperson please deliver by 3/29/20 Long Beach, CA

TEMPLE ISRAEL LONG BEACH

We strive for Temple Israel to be like ’s tent, open on all sides, welcoming to all. In keeping with that philosophy, everyone who wishes to be a supporting member of our community is welcome, regardless of the amount they are able to contribute.” Temple Israel Board of Directors ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE WEEKEND WITH Robert Saslow, Calligrapher and Designer Friday, March 13 - Sunday, March 15 Friday, March 13 Shabbat Dinner and Presentation: The Wonder of Hebrew Letters Cost: $18/dinner (Please RSVP to the Temple Office by Monday, March 9)

Saturday, March 14 at 1:00 pm Hebrew Calligraphy for Beginners: A hands-on workshop. Suggested Donation: $18 Robert Saslow is a -based calligrapher Sunday, March 15 at 9:45 am Jewish Color Values: A hands-on workshop. and designer, who specializes in the creation of Suggested Donation: $10 ( contracts) and Hebrew EVERYONE WELCOME! calligraphy.

CREATING PRAYER, SONG THE JEWISH LIFECYCLE BEIT T’SHUVAH’S PRODUCTION OF AND SPACE A JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC FREEDOM SONG Tuesdays at 7:00 pm Wednesdays at 7:00 pm Sunday, March 22 at 11:00 am March 10, 31 and April 7 March 11, 18, and 25 By interweaving a with personal Join Bill Shafton and Linda Keiles as we take stories of addiction, Freedom Song poses one stark Join Cantor Hass in this three-part series as an innovative dive into the using it as question: “What are you a slave to?” Don’t miss we embark on a spiritual and musical journey, this incredible performance. inspiration to create our own prayers, music and exploring precious lifecycle moments and the Suggested Donation: $10 ultimately our own Shabbat service. Cost: none music that accompanies them. Cost: none Please RSVP to the Temple Office WE ARE A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE REFORM CONGREGATION INSPIRING JEWISH LIFE IN LONG BEACH FOR OVER 95 YEARS! 269 LOMA AVENUE • LONG BEACH, CA 90803 • 562.434.0996 • WWW.TILB.ORG

20 | CHRONICLE | MARCH – APRIL 2020