Jewish Community News www.jfedps.org The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert Adar/Nissan 5781 - March 2021 Landside Vote: Senate Votes 97-3 Making U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem Permanent The bi-partisan amendment was approved 97-3, with the only objectors being Democratic Senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Tom Carper. By World Israel News In a landslide vote February location in Jerusalem in 2018 after and indivisible capital of the Jewish 4, 2021, the Senate approved a over 20 years of bipartisan effort State of Israel, and it should remain budget resolution amendment and Sen. Hagerty and I are clear in there,” said Hagerty. “As former making the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem our efforts to ensure it stays there. U.S. Ambassador to Japan, I know permanent, so that it could not be Israel is a true friend to the United how important it is to recognize the moved out of Israel’s capital in the States and I look forward to many core concerns of our allies, and it future. more years of friendship.” embassy functions that have moved was a travesty that our government “Pleased the Senate The amendment, co-sponsored by to Jerusalem,” and Sanders said he ignored U.S. law and declined overwhelmingly passed the 21 Republicans led by James Inhofe would “take into consideration” to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s amendment Senator Hagerty and of Oklahoma, was added to the moving the embassy back to Tel capital for so many decades.” I introduced to make sure the U.S. massive $1.9 trillion budget bill the Aviv. The Trump administration decision Embassy to Israel remains located Senate passed as part of President The amendment sets aside funding to move the embassy and recognize in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel,” Joe Biden’s relief package. The bi- to maintain the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem as Israel’s capital sparked tweeted the bill’s co-sponsor, partisan amendment was approved Jerusalem making it harder to wild predictions that violence would Republican Senator Jim Infofe of 97-3, with the only objectors being reverse the move of the embassy erupt across the region and set the Oklahoma. Democratic Senators Bernie Sanders, from Tel Aviv. Biden had said he was quest for peace back by years. “I am proud to introduce legislation Elizabeth Warren and Tom Carper. not, in any case, going to move the However, not only did the embassy to protect the U.S. Embassy from During the election campaign embassy. move shatter the myth that it would relocation or being downgraded,” Warren said that “if Israel takes steps “The Trump Administrationcause major conflict, but two years Inhofe said “It was an honor to see counter to peace, I am prepared kept its promise to move the U.S. later, Israel signed peace treaties the U.S. Embassy moved to its rightful to freeze or reverse the limited Embassy to Jerusalem, the eternal with five Muslim countries. New Israeli Drug Cured 29 of 30 Moderate/Serious COVID Cases in Days By of Israel Staff A new coronavirus treatment Hailing a “huge were moderate or worse, and all It uses exosomes — tiny carrier being developed at Tel Aviv’s breakthrough,” 30 recovered — 29 of them within sacs that shuttle materials between Ichilov Medical Center has the hospital three to five days. cells — to deliver a protein called successfully completed phase 1 said Prof. Nadir The medicine fights the cytokine CD24 to the lungs, which Arber has trials and appears to have helped Arber’s EXO- storm — a potentially lethal immune spent decades researching. numerous moderate-to-serious CD24 substance Professor Nadir overreaction to the coronavirus “This protein is located on the cases of COVID-19 quickly recover had been Arber infection that is believed to be surface of cells and has a well known from the disease, the hospital said administered responsible for much of the deaths and important role in regulating the on February 5. to 30 patients whose conditions associated with the disease. continued on page 2 OF THE DESERT

continued from page 1 the storm — the lungs — so unlike the former coronavirus czar, immune system,” said researcher other formulas… which selectively said the research “is advanced JEWISH FEDERATION Shiran Shapira of Arber’s lab. restrain a certain cytokine, or and sophisticated and may save BOARD OF DIRECTORS The protein helps calm down operate widely but cause many coronavirus patients. The results of Roberta Nyman, Board Chair the immune system and curb the serious side effects, EXO-CD24 is the phase 1 trial are excellent and Phil Glass, storm.The drug is designed to treat administered locally, works broadly give us all confidence in the method Treasurer & Allocations Chair moderate and serious cases of the and without side effects.” [Arber] has been researching in his coronavirus and is given to patients The medicine will now move on lab for many years.” Stephanie Ross, Secretary via inhalation directly into the lungs. to further trial phases, but hospital He added: “I am proud that at Celia Norian, Past Co-Chair “The preparation is inhaled once officials were already hailing it as a Ichilov we are… possibly bringing a Bruce Landgarten, a day for a few minutes, for five possible game-changer in fighting blue and white remedy to a terrible Chief Executive Officer days,” Arber said. “The preparation serious COVID-19 illness. global pandemic.” Jackie Cohen Ron Langus is directed straight to the heart of Ichilov director Roni Gamzu, Lori Fritz Bernard Reiter Arnie Gillman Gary Schahet Bobbi Holland

Table of Contents Vol. 47 • No. 8 Community Calendar 16, 17 Passover Calendar 23 Federation 2,-4, 19, 24 Legacy 6 Woman's Philanthropy 12 Have a Nosh 21 PJ Library 22 School Listing 11 Simchas & Classifieds 22 Temples Listing 16 Tributes 15 2 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Return on Investment leadership, we have tightened the supporting the Jewish Federation work, and I’m grateful to the donors focus of our core priorities, ensuring is one of the best ways to take care of and supporters who make it possible Bruce that the philanthropic investments the Jewish people locally and around for the Federation to impact our that we make – and the contributions the world. community in these vitally important Landgarten of our donors and investors – can have What follows are highlights of our ways. Jewish Federation the most impact. Federation “DNA” and priorities If you are currently a Chief Executive Some of the outcomes of this process for the year ahead and into the contributor, THANK YOU. And if Officer will be no surprise to anyone who future. You will be hearing more you haven’t supported the Jewish knows us or values our commitment to about these priorities from me and Federation recently, or at all, I Dear Friends, a strong Jewish people and community in our communications, especially in encourage you to learn more about This has been an unsettled and in Greater Palm Springs and beyond. terms of how the Federation makes what we are doing and the impact unsettling time - a continuation of a Other outcomes will reflect a slight a critical difference in these impact we…and you…can have. season of unrest. We are divided on shift in priorities – such as expanding areas, and they will be framing our Thank you. many levels and about many things. our work in ensuring a secure Jewish upcoming Grants and Allocations…a It seems, sometimes more often than community and countering anti- process that will be taking place over not, that the forces of self or particular Semitism and hate in places where the next few months. interest are likely to overpower we can make a real difference. Once again – I’m proud of our the stickiness of communal good Across the board there is a renewed and cohesion. This is where Jewish focus on how we can ensure “Return on Federation comes in – and why I am Investment” – a smart, strategic return so proud of our work. on our philanthropic investment… This past fall we began a process to so that our community knows that better identify needs and priorities in our Jewish community and define where the Federation has a vital role to play. The bottom line is that the Jewish Federation is in the key position to JAFI -Jewish Agency for Israel help address some critical needs and challenges in our community. Our Jewish Today it has an annual budget of Through a community survey, Federation almost $400 million and its projects roundtables with community leaders, d i s b u r s e s include caring for the frail aged and and discussions among our Federation funds in vulnerable youth in the Former Soviet two major Union, with mentally and physically categories. handicapped youth in Israel, poverty On one hand we address and intervention programs for struggling respond to the needs and promote families and supporting IDF soldiers’ programs in our local community; and transition back to civilian life. then, partnering with other Jewish JAFI’s network of overnight summer Federations and Jewish organizations camps in the FSU have navigated throughout the United States and the health and safety concerns of around the world, we support the COVID-19 public health crisis, projects in Israel and assist with the recognizing the importance they play care of Jews in need throughout the in the Jewish education of the region. world. These programs foster Jewish values One of our longest affiliations is in overlooked and underserved with the Jewish Agency for Israel populations, creating future Jewish ( JAFI), an organization established leaders in Israel and in countries in 1929 to assist Jews worldwide. around the world. JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 3 JEWISH 2021 Tamarisk /Federation COMMUNITY NEWS Golf Day A Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert VOL. 47, No. 8 EDITORIAL Bruce Landgarten, Chief Executive Officer Miriam H. Bent, Editor Bailey Communications, Layout & Design

JCN STATEMENT The Jewish Community News seeks to provide news and feature material of special interest to its readership, and to create a heightened sense of Jewish identity through the dissemination of information about people, events and issues at home and abroad. The JCN seeks to serve as a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions in the Jewish community.

The JCN is published monthly, ten months a year by the Jewish Federation of the Desert, 69-710 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270, 760-324-4737, fax 760-324-3154.

ARTICLES & ADVERTISING, Miriam H. Bent, Editor 760-323-0255 e-mail: [email protected]

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4 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Bon Appetit Magazine Edits Hamantaschen Article By Shiryn Ghermezian, The Algemeiner As part of its “Archive Repair the previous version’s flippant tone in the article’s content was the haters … To create a hamantaschen Project,” Bon Appetit magazine and stereotypical characterizations description of the Jewish holiday that we could all enjoy, regardless changed the headline and content of Jewish culture.” of Purim. Writer Dawn Perry, who is of religious upbringing or tainted of a 2015 article about the The article’s original headline also Bon Appetit‘s digital food editor, Hebrew School memories.” Purim cookie hamantaschen and “How to Make Actually originally said “The story of Purim The response seemed unnecessary apologized for its “stereotypical Good Hamantaschen” was involves a bad guy, Haman, a nice to some users, who found characterizations of Jewish culture.” changed to “5 Steps to Really Jewish lady, Esther, and her ultimate nothing offensive in the article’s In an “editor’s note” published Good Hamantaschen.” Bon victory over his plot to destroy the original text or headline. at the start of the piece, the Appetit removed the sub-heading in Jewish people.” “What was supposed to offend magazine said, “The original version which the article’s non-Jewish writer Bon Appetit also deleted six me? I don’t get it. I always liked the of this article included language said in “full disclosure” that because sentences about Perry’s observation that was insensitive toward Jewish regular hamantaschen. I like the ones she attended “roughly three Bar that Jews and non-Jews alike on food traditions and does not align filled with poppy seeds,” wrote one or Bat Mitzvahs a weekend during the BA staff “could only call up user. with our brand’s standards … We 1992” and cooks professionally, she have edited the headline, dek childhood memories of dry and “I am mostly thought she could “at least weigh in and content to better convey the sandy hamantaschen that left your confused,” tweeted another. “… on the Jewish cookie department.” history of Purim and the goals of this mouth coated with a weird film,” because every hamentashen I have particular recipe. We apologize for Among other things changed and her desire to “convert the has been good?” Israel’s Inovytec Ventilator Coming to California By Abigail Klein Leichman, Israel21c Israeli medical device system for respiratory and cardiac system for emergency medical teams. firm Inovytec has signed a deal to emergencies; and the Lubo airway The company was founded in 2011. deliver 1,500 advanced portable management and neck stabilization ventilators to Global Medical Supply, a distributor that works with the state of California. The Ventway Sparrow breathing machines will be used to aid patients with respiratory illnesses during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. “When looking for a partner that could quickly supply us with allows for invasive or noninvasive the quality ventilators we needed, ventilation. Inovytec answered the call. Its This ventilator is already being used lightweight and durable ventilators in Covid-19 wards in Italy, Brazil and give patients the flexibility needed Israel. It is cleared for use in Canada, to be transported between wards Australia and the United States under or hospitals seamlessly,” said Edward FDA Emergency Use Authorization. Kim, a partner at Global Medical Udi Kantor, co-founder and CEO Supply. of Inovytec, said ventilators have “At the same time, Inovytec’s been an invaluable resource in recent ventilators are affordable, meaning months. we could care for more patients and “Looking beyond the pandemic, the lack of constant maintenance our ventilators will enable paramedics allows us to keep them in storage if and hospitals to safely and easily need be while knowing they will be transfer patients, and we look forward ready when needed.” to serving other medical facilities in The Ventway Sparrow weighs California and other states.” only 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) and Inovytec also makes the Sali first-aid JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 5 Biden UN Nominee Pledges to Combat Anti-Israel Bias, BDS, Iranian Threat Jewish News Syndicate U.S. President Joe Biden’s nominee strategy with them getting a nuclear weapon. the UNHRC in June 2018 after then- to be U.S. ambassador to the United for engaging with “We’ve seen a tremendous U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations pledged to combat the anti- countries that would amount of backtracking since” the Nations Nikki Haley cited the world Israel bias at the United Nations. appreciate having United States withdrew from the body’s “chronic” bias against Israel “I look forward to standing with Israel’s expertise 2015 Iran nuclear deal, she said. The as one of the primary factors for the Israel, standing against the unfair to support their withdrawal in May 2018 was followed withdrawal. targeting of Israel, the relentless development by reimposing sanctions lifted The United States defunded resolutions proposed against effo r ts.” Linda Thomas- under it, along with enacting new UNRWA in September 2018, claiming Greenfield Israel unfairly,” said Linda Thomas- Thomas- sanctions as part of what the Trump that the refugee agency, which serves Greenfield at her nomination hearing Greenfield, a 35- administration called a “maximum Palestinians, inflates the number of in front of the U.S. Senate Foreign year diplomat, expressed hope that pressure” campaign. Palestinian refugees and furthers the Relations Committee. “I look forward those countries that have normalized Thomas-Greenfield said America Palestinian refugee problem. Critics to working with Israel to develop a ties with Israel under the Abraham would work with its allies and other have also said that UNRWA has Accords—the United Arab Emirates, members of the U.N. Security inspired violence against Israel. Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco—“will Council to “ensure that we hold Iran Finally, Thomas-Greenfield also see some opportunities to be accountable.” expressed opposition to the BDS more cooperative at the U.N. and Additionally, she noted that the movement against Israel, saying that more supportive of Israel’s presence United States would rejoin the U.N. it is “unacceptable” and “verges on there.” Human Rights Council and the United anti-Semitic,” and “it’s important that On Iran, Thomas-GreenfieldNations Educational, Scientific and they not be allowed to have a voice assured that the Biden administration Cultural Organization, or UNESCO. at the U.N., and I intend to work will work to prevent the regime from The United States withdrew from against that.” To Battle , Facebook Announces Tool to Connect Users with Facts Jewish News Syndicate In an effort to contend with the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Holocaust denial on its platform, Cultural Organization, or UNESCO. Facebook announced that it will “Holocaust denial, Holocaust begin to connect users to a site distortion and the spreading with facts about the 20th-century of conspiracy myths about the atrocity that killed 11 million people, Holocaust generally have become including 6 million Jews. The Facebook tool connecting cornerstones in the vicious incitement “We honor the memories of the users to a website with facts about of anti-Semitic hatred on the part of victims and recognize the role we can will first be available in white supremacists, neo-Nazis and play to help fulfill the promise ‘Never English-speaking countries, including other extremist forces,” said WJC Again.’ We will begin to connect Australia, New Zealand, Canada, president Ronald S. Lauder in the people with authoritative information United Kingdom, Ireland and the Facebook statement. about the Holocaust,” said Facebook United States. It will be available in In October 2020, Facebook CEO in a statement. “Anyone who searches more languages and countries over Mark Zuckerberg announced that on Facebook for terms associated the coming months, according to the the platform would be banning posts with either the Holocaust or social-media platform. that deny or distort the Holocaust Holocaust denial will see a message That website to connect users with and would redirect users from posts from Facebook encouraging them factual information is aboutholocaust. that deny or distort the Holocaust to to connect with credible information org, which was created by the World “authoritative sources to get accurate about the Holocaust off Facebook.” Jewish Congress with the support of information.”

6 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Compassionate Conversations Congregation Beth Shalom Annual Scholars Program, Sundays, March 7 and March 14, 2021 Beth Shalom’s Annual Scholar- of Music project at UCLA’s Herb in-Residence Weekend has been a Alpert School of Music. He resides popular and engaging event in our locally and is a Beth Shalom member. Jewish community for the past nine These four eminent scholars and years. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Rabbi Sacks are all contributors the synagogue leadership has Rabbi Dr. J.B. Sacks Rabbi Dr. Richard Rabbi Dr. Shira Stern Rabbi Dayle Cantor Dr. Rhoda to the forthcoming volume Psalms Address BCC Friedman BCC Harrison reimagined and restructured this in the Key of Healing by Rabbi Address (Philadelphia, PA) and Care in a Virtual Age. She directs year’s program into an exceptional H. Rafael Goldstein, who died Rabbi Shira Stern (Marlboro, NJ). the Growing Older website. experience that will bring multiple in December. The book offers a On March 14, he will engage with Cantor Rhoda Harrison serves scholars from across the country method for gleaning meaning, Rabbi Dayle Friedman (Philadelphia, Congregation M’kor Shalom into the homes of Coachella Valley’s inspiration, hope and healing from PA) and Cantor Dr. Rhoda Harrison (Cherry Hill, NJ). Also a rabbi, she Jewish community and beyond. the biblical Book of Psalms, which is (Cherry Hill, NJ). Both hour-long focuses on her role as interpreter of We invite the community to join us scheduled for release this month. conversations will begin at 11:00 liturgical prayer. She is also a Pastoral These programs are free of online and take advantage of this AM (Pacific time). Care intern at Jefferson University exceptional learning experience. charge and the entire community Rabbi Richard Address directs Hospital. Cantor Harrison earned is welcome. Advanced registration Ken Hailpern, Spiritual Leader, Sacred Jewish Aging, a website which a Ph.D. in Jewish Studies at Towson is required. LINK to registration, Congregation Beth Shalom. offers resources for congregations. University. detailed information and He also hosts a weekly podcast, Rabbi Sacks is the spiritual sponsorship opportunities are Rabbi J.B. Sacks will conduct Seekers of Meaning, which is leader of Congregation Am HaYam available on the website: www. “Compassionate Conversations” devoted to issues of aging and (Ventura, CA) and serves as CongregationBethShalom.net or by with four of our nation’s spirituality as they impact families Education Specialist for the Stories calling (760) 200-3636. distinguished leaders in Jewish and congregations. healing and wellness at the 10th Rabbi Shira Stern has served as a Annual Scholars Program, held in pulpit rabbi, hospital, hospice and two webinar segments: March 7 and disaster spiritual care chaplain. She March 14 via Zoom. This initiative of is the Director of both the Joint Congregation Beth Shalom is made Chaplaincy Program of Greater possible by a grant from Jewish Middlesex County and the Jewish Federation of the Desert. Institute for Pastoral Care (NYC). These conversations will focus Rabbi Dayle Friedman has served on healing, spiritual care, the Book and advocated for seniors and of Psalms, and current challenges, has trained rabbis and chaplains. including the ongoing coronavirus She authored Jewish Wisdom for pandemic. On March 7, Rabbi Growing Older and coedited the Sacks will speak with Rabbi Richard forthcoming Jewish End-of-Life

JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 7 Ramat HaNegev Update The Jewish Federation of the Desert has been instrumental in providing facilities and programs that have enhanced life in Israel’s “desert frontier,” the Ramat HaNegev Regional Council, which is the governing entity over more than 20% of Israel’s land mass, in the south. Our recent projects have focused on children and youth programs. Two years ago we supported the building of their outdoor classroom, and this year’s Amazing tomato crop allocation is supporting their Center the need for economic assistance Enhancing the Children's Center for Children with Special Needs and and support for all group ages, with to address what the Center means Pitchat Nitzana’s children and youth initiatives such as online lectures, The Center for Children with Special Needs to them. Here are some of their programs. tours, virtual education, workshops, answers: “It calms me down and In their recent communications a joy-mobile, and more. This Center was established lets me learn new things” (one of they indicated the losses in Aside from the hard-hit to Israel’s by our partners at the Jewish the children); “the professional help international tourism to Ramat economy, a significant concern Federation of the Desert and has advanced the children with HaNegev, due to COVID 19, has been the dramatic effects continues to operate thanks to their their motoric skills. Which are so have been countered by Israelis on children, many of which have heartwarming, continued, generous important for their advancement” coming to the Negev as a desired been confined to their homes for support. During the past year, the (a therapist); “thanks to the center tourist location, attracted to the months on end. We are proud of Center has provided children with we learn about the children, breathtaking desert views and our innovative educators who have occupational therapy, Animal- understand their world, in a way, we open spaces. This is also translating found incredibly inspiring online assisted therapy, yoga therapy, can’t in the classroom” (a teacher). into families starting to move to the solutions providing personal and learning strategies, offering “we appreciate the support so much region, as detailed in the following support for each child. While professional support during school as it enables us to help the growing update; important decisions were made hours, and focusing on emotional early on, adapting various programs, wellbeing, personal growth, and need and demand of the children, provide professional and emotional As we navigate such uncertain some have managed to continue social advancement. During the support” (a staff member). times, we have placed emotional operating throughout the past year. quarantines, the Center offered and physical health at the forefront Such as the Center for Children with learning strategies via zoom and “ ... The Height of the Wings is of our efforts. Showcasing a high Special Needs, which remained advanced the collaboration and the Height of the dream...” Shlomit level of flexibility and ability to active for most of the year, and knowledge exchange with the Cohen Asif. quickly respond to the dynamic continued to provide the much- parents. reality. The council has addressed needed support for our children. We asked the children and staff 17,000 Israeli Holocaust Survivors Died in 2020, at Least 900 From COVID-19 By i24 News Nearly 17,000 Holocaust survivors published on the eve of International same age group (16%). In women, in Israel recognized by the Authority died in 2020, with 900 of the fatalities Holocaust Remembrance Day. the percentage of deaths from for the Rights of Holocaust Survivors. being attributed directly to the According to the bureau, the death contracting the disease was lower Among them, 850 Holocaust coronavirus pandemic, according to a rate stands at 17%, while nearly 5,300 than in men — 15% versus 21%. survivors have reached the age of new report released by Israel’s Central survivors have been infected by According to the Central Bureau of 100 and over, it was said. The average Bureau of Statistics in late January. COVID-19, a percentage similar to Statistics, at the end of 2020, there age of a Holocaust survivor in Israel The annual report is traditionally that of the general population in the were around 180,000 people living is 85. 8 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com While Skies Officially Shut, Exception Made for 300 Ethiopian Jewish Immigrants Newcomers taken from Ben Gurion Airport to 14-day quarantine period, but 6-year-old passenger in need of emergency heart surgery whisked to hospital By Cnaan Liphshiz, JTA Ben Gurion Airport reopened flight to Israel. duress while adhering to some briefly on February 12 for 302 “Now their dreams have come Jewish traditions. new immigrants from Ethiopia, true of finally reuniting with their Israel completed the airlifting of including a 6-year-old boy in need families in the Promised Land,” ICEJ another group of Ethiopian Jews of emergency heart surgery. President Jürgen Bühler said in a known as Beta Israel in the 1990s. The newcomers were taken to a statement. “We also have many The Israeli government has allowed 14-day quarantine period, but the Christians worldwide to thank for the Falash Mura to immigrate under boy was quickly moved to a local making this flight possible.” the country’s Law of Return for Jews hospital. The airport has been shuttered and their relatives. The Ethiopians, among about A girl smiles upon arriving from Ethiopia as her since January 26 as part of the 8,000 with Jewish ancestry awaiting mother kisses the ground at Israel’s Ben Gurion government’s attempts to curb the Airport in Israel on February 12, 2021. immigration to Israel, had been spread of the coronavirus. They are tested for COVID-19 in Gondar their arrival and chartered the plane slated to remain closed until at least prior to arriving, according to a that brought them. February 20. statement by the International From Gondar, the immigrants The Ethiopians, known as Falash Christian Embassy Jerusalem, or ICEJ, traveled on buses for 12 hours to Mura, are widely believed to have an evangelical group that sponsored Addis Ababa before the four-hour converted to Christianity under Auschwitz Vaccine Poster Puts Corbyn’s Brother in Jail By United with Israel Staff Former United Kingdom Labour against Jews, according to a 130- Party head ’s brother page report by the UK’s Equality and Piers was arrested in late January Human Rights Commission (EHCR). for posters bearing his name that Corbyn flat out denied the EHRC’s criticize vaccines using an image of findings and blamed a “political the Auschwitz death camp, where conspiracy” for the investigation, the Nazis slaughtered close to a Piers Corbyn and ‘Auschwitz’ poster prompting his suspension from the million Jews during the Holocaust. material in the form of a leaflet party, though he was reinstated in Piers’ brother, Jeremy Corbyn, being circulated in south London short order. in late January have made two was forced to step down from his The anti-Semitism that festered post as head of Labour after getting arrests,’” Jewish News added, on Corbyn’s watch did not evade trounced in national elections referring to the Corbyn arrest. reproach from some of the biggest following an anti-Semitism scandal The report continued, “The leaflet leaders in the Jewish community. that rocked the very core of his far- contained material that appeared to In a 2018 interview with The New left faction. compare the Covid-19 vaccination Piers Corbyn is an anti-vaccination program with the Holocaust.” Statesman, the late Rabbi Lord activist and “came up with the Another member of the Labour Jonathan Sacks, who served as the ‘concept idea’ for the poster which party, Neil Coyle, reported the Chief Rabbi of for 22 depicts Auschwitz but changes leaflet to the police, commenting he years, warned that Corbyn gives its infamous phrase at its gate was “absolutely sickened by anti-vax “support to racists, terrorists and from ‘Arbeit Macht Frei’, meaning conspiracy theory crackpot leaflets dealers of hate, who want to kill Jews ‘work sets you free’, to ‘vaccines put through some doors in SE17 and remove Israel from the map,” are safe path to freedom,’” Jewish to day.” adding that the Labour leader uses News reported. Under Jeremy Corbyn’s “the language of classic pre-war “Police confirmed ‘officersstewardship, the Labour party European anti-Semitism.” investigating reports of malicious committed “unlawful harassment” JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 9 ICC Chief Justice Says His Colleagues Were Wrong About Israel Ruling Judge Peter Kovacs says judges who ruled against Israel were wrong and jumped to conclusions not based in law. By Paul Shindman, World Israel News The senior judge at the sovereign State,” the judge wrote. numerous statutes and agreements International Criminal Court said “I agree neither with the and had only considered “‘pre- his colleagues were wrong about conclusion, nor with the Majority’s 1967 borders’ type formulas” that the Palestinians and Israel, issuing reasoning and analysis in reaching he said do not stand alone and a dissenting opinion February 7 such a conclusion,” he said. should have been read alongside detailing the mistakes they made. The Palestinians and other anti- the Oslo and other agreements Judge Peter Kovacs wrote that the Israel groups had petitioned the signed in 1993 and later. majority of his colleagues had erred court to charge Israel with war “Had we referred to the Oslo repeatedly in their interpretation crimes over not only military action Accords… this would have of the law when they ruled that ICC Chief Justice Peter Kovacs taken in Gaza following Hamas provided us with a more nuanced the ICC has jurisdiction in the appropriate in answering the rocket attacks on Israel, but they and, in my view, far more solid basis Palestinian territories, even though question before this Chamber, also claim that Israeli housing in for the decision,” Kovacs gave as the Palestinians are not a state and in my view, they have no legal Judea and Samaria is a “war crime.” one example. member of the ICC and Israel does basis in the Rome Statute and even The court ruling could pave the “We find ourselves in an not belong to the court at all. less so in public international law,” way for the court to prosecute ambiguous and delicate situation,” “I find neither the Majority’s Kovacs wrote in his dissension. members of the IDF for actions Kovacs wrote, noting in one section approach nor its reasoning Kovacs also criticized his the Palestinians claim were against that the large number of countries colleagues for jumping to international law. While the court treating the Palestinians as a conclusions, saying they were hinted it might also look at actions country did not legally turn it into wrong to assume that there was of the Hamas terror group, its a nation member of the ICC. such a thing as a state called arbitrary decision to consider the Reporter Eylon Levy noted that “Palestine.” Palestinians as an existing nation, Judge Kovacs’ intricately detailed “These formulas (‘early realization’ even though their only status is 163-page dissension is worth — in French: ‘en vue de la réalisation that of “observer-state” at the UN, reading because the criticism of the rapide’ – and ‘in preparation for angered both Israeli politicians and other judges’ ruling comes from a independence’) can hardly be the IDF. recognized legal expert who is not interpreted as referring to an Kovacs says the other judges connected to Israel at all. already existing, independent and failed to take into account Coronavirus: El Al Becomes World’s First Airline to Vaccinate Entire Staff By Gadi Zaig, The Times of Israel In a sign that we one day might personnel, inoculated against the flights to New York and Dubai, return to normalcy, El Al Israel virus. after winning a bid by Israel’s Civil Airlines has announced that all In a statement, El Al’s local Aviation Authority. employees that come into contact competitor, Israir, said 95% of its However, it was reported on Friday with passengers have been pilots had had received the dose of that Ben-Gurion Airport will be shut vaccinated, Israel Hayom reported the vaccine. down at least until February 21 in February 12. Another airline, Arkia Israeli an effort to lower the COVID-19 With this announcement, El Al has Airlines, announced around 70% of infection. made history for being the world’s its employees had been vaccinated The shutdown of Ben-Gurion first airline to have all of its relevant against COVID-19. airport may be extended. staff, including attendants, security On February 8 it was reported that personnel, pilots, and other service El Al is to operate direct emergency

10 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Analysis: BDS Proponents End Up Achieving Opposite Outcome By Bassam Eid, Jewish News Syndicate Despite all evidence to the Jews. They do nothing to improve all Palestinians who rely on Israel boycotting local businesses that contrary, detractors of Israel conditions for Palestinians. On for work. Take, for example, the provide good-paying jobs in our continue to make the case that the contrary, they often have the hundreds of Palestinians who were communities. forcing colleges and universities opposite effect. laid off when the manufacturing BDS exploits Palestinians, using us to divest from Jewish-owned For all of the divisive rhetoric company SodaStream was targeted as a prop to demonize Israel and the businesses in Israel can somehow spurred by outside groups, by anti-Israel boycotts. Jewish people for the benefit of a better the lives of Palestinians. Palestinians and Israelis are In 2015, under pressure from political agenda that has nothing to Brown University has become the interdependent, particularly when BDS activists, SodaStream closed its do with us. If BDS were to become latest U.S. campus targeted by the it comes to economic matters. factory in the West Bank and moved official policy for Brown University, BDS movement, and, as a Palestinian, Attempting to punish Israelisto a new facility in the Negev desert. it would go to show that it has I urge the Brown community not to for their supposed sins against What did this accomplish other than fallen prey to BDS propaganda— fall for it. Palestinians with divestment and 500 Palestinian workers losing their not a good look for an Ivy League Under the banner of “Brown sanctions actually harms Palestinians, jobs? institution. The Corporation of Divest,” and spearheaded by the tens of thousands of whom are SodaStream continues to grow Brown University must ignore radical Students for Justice in employed in Israel and work for and expand its product offerings Brown Divest’s demands and reject Palestine, anti-Israel campus activists Israel-based companies. around the world, while 500 BDS. are pushing for the Corporation of By boycotting Israeli-ownedPalestinian families lost their income. Bassem Eid is a Palestinian human- Brown University, the institution’s businesses, BDS is actually I challenge anyone to explain how, rights activist, political analyst and governing body, to divest from what jeopardizing the livelihoods of exactly, my people benefit from journalist. SJP calls “Israeli settler colonialism and apartheid” in a vote to take place this week. Israeli “apartheid” is nothing more than a political slogan that has nothing to do with reality, however I will be the first to acknowledge that conditions between Israel and the Palestinians are not perfect, but demonizing our Jewish neighbors is not the answer. Far from having any measurable impact on Israeli policies, the most frequent outcome of BDS campaigns—wherever they appear—is to spark anti-Semitism and create hostile environments for Community Schools Aleph Schoolhouse Director: Dina Pinson 73-550 Santa Rosa Way, Palm Desert Children 18 months through Elementary School Alephschoolhouse.org 347-721-8782

JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 11 Jewish Federation Women's Philanthropy The Jewish Federation’s Women’s on Amazon or joining that Monday, April Cultural Alliance is hosting a 3 part your favorite program, 12 and will honor virtual learning event honoring Jewish bookstore. The when you Jewish women women from Biblical times through book review RSVP for from RBG through Ruth Bader Ginsberg and the Jewish will be led by our local the Jewish activists women who showed up and changed co-chairs Jackie program we in the 60’s, 70’s our world in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s Cohen and will register and until today. through now. All sessions will be held Arlene Morse you for the That program will virtually. and Leslie New York be facilitated by Dr. Pamela Nadell The first session was February 8th, Pepper, Women’s Arlene Morse lecture as Julie Bornstein. facilitated by local Rebbitzin Sussie Philanthropy well. For further information on these Denebeim, with Jackie Cohen and Co-ordinator The third three events please contact Leslie. Arlene Morse, Co-chairs of this three and will take part of this [email protected] or at 760-324- part series. place virtually on Women’s series will take place on 4737. The second part Monday, March of this series will be 8th at 6:30 pm. a book review of In addition, Pam “American Jewish Nadell is lectur- Women- A History ing online about Leslie Pepper from Colonial her book o n Times to Today Monday, March 15, as part of Temple by Dr. Pamela Emanu-El in New York’s education Nadell. This book series. It is free to attend online and can be purchased Jackie Cohen to facilitate our local participants An Afternoon with a Remarkable Lady There has been she created OPI Nail Lacquers which an underlying subsequently was sold to COTY for theme in the close to 1 billion dollars! activities and Married with two children, Suzi programs and her husband’s Fischmann Family of Women’s Foundation focuses on education. Philanthropy/ As she has observed, “I strongly Cultural Alliance believe that education is one the this past year, most important things we can provide Suzi Weiss- despite the Fischmann our children. No one can take away pandemic; that of from you what you learn, and with celebrating women’s achievements. education comes so many other The program being offered on opportunities.” Suzi is a great advocate March 14 introduces us to another for women and her program promises remarkable, extraordinarily to be a fascinating afternoon. accomplished woman. Suzy Weiss- All women who have contributed a Fischmann was born in Hungary, the minimum of $180 to this year’s Jewish daughter of Holocaust survivors, Federation campaign are invited to and came to the United States as a participate. For women who have commitment this year, Leslie Pepper, looks forward to speaking with you. teenager. Fast forward to 1987, when not had an opportunity to make their Women’s Philanthropy Coordinator, Call her at 760-324-4737.

12 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Marvel Comics Apologizes, Wipes Anti-Semitic Image from Latest Issue of ‘Immortal Hulk’ By Algemeiner Staff Stung by widespread interpretation, to put it frankly, is wrote. “This was wrong, offensive, condemnation, Marvel Comics this that this is a visual play on the old and and hurtful in many ways. This is a week removed anti-Semitic imagery anti-Semitic trope of Jews running mistake I must own, and I am sorry from the latest issue of its Immortal the diamond business.” It described to everyone who I hurt by this. I am Hulk comic. the panel as “an incredibly overt working with Marvel to correct this, The issue, published in early anti-Semitic dogwhistle.” and I am using this lesson to reflect February, was slammed after some The issue’s artist, Joe Bennett, The offending panel from Marvel’s on how I approach my stories and ‘Immortal Hulk’ comic was removed after readers noticed that one panel subsequently apologized on widespread condemnation. my work.” featured the character Joe Fixit, in Facebook, writing that he had honest but terrible mistake” because Marvel said that it “fully control of Bruce Banner’s body, been including references to he was writing backwards, but he acknowledged this mistake was stepping into a jewelry store. famous horror movie directors added that he had “no excuse” for missed on our side as well.” The The name of the shop –throughout the series, and that the inclusion of the Star of David. legendary comic book publisher has “Cronemberg Jewery” – is seen in he had intended to feature a nod “I failed to understand this now wiped the Star of David and the reverse on the window above a to David Cronenberg in issue 43. troubling and offensive stereotype, writing from the store window in the Star of David. The site ComicsXF The misspellings of jewelry and and after listening to you all, I digital edition and is reprinting the said: “[The] only conceivableCronenberg, he said, were “an now understand my mistake,” he issue. Painted in Front of Cal Poly’s SLO Campus’ Jewish Fraternity House JTA Police in California are investigating Francisco and Los Angeles. after a Jewish fraternity at the “Let us be perfectly clear: behavior California Polytechnic State University that promotes any form of hate reported finding swastikas and other and seeks to make members of anti-Semitic graffiti painted outside its our community feel unsafe and house. unwelcome – especially in their own The symbols were scrawled in front home – has absolutely no place in our of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity community,” the university president’s house in California’s San Luis Obispo message said. County on Friday night, campus In 2018, Cal Poly made the authorities said. news because of a push to increase “We awoke to multiple swastikas funding to all student groups except and antisemitic statements spray- those with a “Zionist ideology.” painted on and in front of our house,” the fraternity wrote in an Instagram post on Saturday. University President Jeffrey Armstrong and other officials Saturday evening said in a statement that the incident was reported to the San Luis Obispo Police Department and an investigation is underway, according to The Tribune of San Luis Obispo County, which is located about halfway between San JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 13 Bipartisan Bill, Backed by Jewish Vets in Congress, Would Join US and Israel in PTSD Research JTA A slate of Democrats and Republicans invisible wounds from the trauma time. Inspiring further research Republicans, including two Jewish Michael Waltz of they experienced while fighting collaboration between our two military veterans, introduced a Florida and Lee for our country,” Luria said in a nations will establish an international bill that would join U.S. and Israeli Zeldin of New release. “Congress can uphold its brain trust invaluable to the researchers seeking to treat PTSD. York. Luria and end of the promise by facilitating servicemembers of both our great The bill introduced Thursday Zeldin are Jewish groundbreaking research to find countries.” and Houlahan’s Rep. Lee Zeldin treatments for post-traumatic stress Waltz and Luria advanced a similar would establish a grant program (R-NY) for American universities and father is Jewish; all disorder.” bill last year, but it went nowhere. nonprofits to team up with Israeli three are military veterans. Zeldin, the lead spokesman on Now the measure has Senate backing counterparts to research post- In the Senate, the sponsors are Israel issues for Republicans, said in and is getting off the ground early, traumatic stress disorder. Robert Menendez, a New Jersey the same release, “It’s estimated that suggesting it has a better chance of Its sponsors in the U.S. House Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas 20 US veterans per day take their becoming law. of Representatives are Democrats Republican. own life, oftentimes due to the Elaine Luria of Virginia and Chrissy “Too many of our bravest men invisible wounds of war and Houlahan of Pennsylvania and and women come home with we cannot afford to waste any

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14 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com All contributions received by the Jewish Federation for Tribute Cards are Tribute Card Donations placed in our special Tzedakah Fund, which provides direct monetary Sending tributes and memorials is a meaningful way to honor loved ones. intervention for needy Jews living in the Coachella Valley. Call 760-324-4737.

Honorarium Tributes • Jerry Abeles, in memory of your beloved wife • Dr. Gary and Jo Ellen Leifer, In memory In Appreciation For: Betty, from Bobby and Toni Garmisa, Eunice and of your beloved mother Maurine, from Cora Jerry Meister, and Nora and Jay Spak. Ginsberg, Margot and Jerry Halperin, and Sherry and Howard Schor. • Bernie Fromm, Donation to Fromm Youth • Cohen Family, Donation made to Fromm Enrichment Fund to Dad for your 86th birthday Youth Enrichment Fund in memory of Herb, from • Family of Richard Levin, In memory of from Davida Fromm, Reid Simmons and the kids. Barbara and Bernie Fromm. Richard, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, from Jerry and Lita • Joanne Hirschfield, With love and best wishes • Terry Cohen, In memory of your beloved Widran. for your birthday, from Richard and Barbara husband Hy, from Eddie and Jackie Cohen. Rosenfield. • Edith Familian, In memory of your beloved • Norman Libman and Family, In memory of your beloved wife Doris, from Cora Ginsberg, • Roberta Holland, With best wishes for a husband Arnold, from Richard and Barbara Margot and Jerry Halperin, Sanford and happy, healthy birthday, from Richard and Rosenfield. Rosemary Hertz, Ruth and Mal Kaufman, Eunice Barbara Rosenfield. • Hilary Friedman, In memory of Larry Siever, and Jerry Meister, Gail and Bob Scadron, and • Don and Reva Levy, In honor of your 70th from Barbara and Robert Paget. Sherry and Howard Schor. anniversary. Mazel tov! Aviva and Ron Snow. • John Goldenberg, In memory of your • Sally Schwartz, In memory of your beloved • Bob Scadron, In honor of your special beloved father Arnold Goldenberg, from Cora mother Cece, from Richard and Barbara birthday, from Leslie and Barry Usow Ginsberg. Rosenfield. • Lainie Weil, In honor of your special birthday, • Gus Hambas and Family, In memory of your • Marilee and Larry Spatz,, In memory from Leslie and Barry Usow. beloved wife Bernie, from Shirley Brown, Estelle of Pearl Lipton, beloved wife, mother and Rich and Eileen Snyder. grandmother, from Jerry and Lita Widran. Refuah Shleimah • Hammel Family, Donation made to Fromm Get Well Wishes To: • Ted and Elaine Stein, In memory of your Youth Enrichment Fund in memory of Ernestine, beloved mother Maurine, from Bobby and Toni from Barbara and Bernie Fromm. Garmisa, Cora Ginsberg, Libby and Buddy • Jack Goldner, Wishing you a speedy recovery, • Dr. and Mrs. Leonard Kaplan, In memory of Hoffman, Eunice and Jerry Meister, Sherry and from Libby and Buddy Hoffman. your beloved father Eddie, from Eunice and Jerry Howard Schor, Nora and Jay Spak. • Helen and Jim Lewis, Wishing you a speedy Meister. • Robin Torodor, in memory of your beloved recovery, from Sanford and Rosemary Hertz. • Joan Kramer, in memory of Harold Kramer, mother Judy, from Jackie and Eddie Cohen, and Memoriam Tributes from Larry and Cathy Pitts. Chickie and Claude Steinberger. Condolences Sent To: • Karen Lee and Family, in memory of Daniel • Emily Weiss, In memory of your beloved Lee, from Barbara and Robert Paget. father Arnold Goldenberg, from Cora Ginsberg.

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JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 15 March Shabbat Schedule Due to the uncertainties from the Covid Pandemic, we urge you to check online or call any temple or shul you are interested in attending to find out what is currently being offered. BETH SHALOM (Member, 760-770-7785 DESERT OUTREACH TEMPLE ISAIAH United Synagogue of Conservative “Taste of Shul” available Fridays on SYNAGOGUE Rabbi Steven Rosenberg Judaism) Zoom and Facebook live. Check Rabbi Jules King; Cantor Lori 332 West Alejo Road, Palm Springs, Ken Hailpern, Spiritual Leader website or call for additional Reisman Patterson. 760-449-0111. CA 92262, 760-325-2281. www. 79-733 Country Club Drive, services and classes being offered. Mailing address: P.O. Box 982, templeisaiahps.com. Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270. www. To access any activity, go to Temple www.congregationbethshalom.net CHABAD OF SUN CITY PALM Desert-Outreach-Synagogue.com. Isaiah’s website and click on link 760-200-3636 DESERT Virtual services held the second to desired service or program. Virtual Shabbat Morning Services: Rabbi Yonason Denebeim. and fourth Fridays at 7:00 pm Friday evening services accessed, 10:00 am, Zoom link on website: See Chabad of Palm Springs. on Zoom. For link and password as above, on website or directly CongregationBethShalom.net contact rabbi @desert-outreach- on Facebook ‘Temple Isaiah Palm For information, email CONGREGATION HAR-EL synagogue.com. Springs’ at 7:30 pm. Twice a month [email protected] or call (Member, Union for Reform we offer Shabbat Under the Stars 760-200-3636. Judaism) OR HAMIDBAR from our outside bima. Check Rabbi Richard Zionts; Cantor Rabbi David Lazar rabbi@ website to confirm which weeks CHABAD OF PALM SPRINGS & Joseph Gole. harelurjpd@gmail. orhamidbar.org. Virtual Kabbalat each month. Outside service also DESERT COMMUNITIES com Services Fridays at 6:30 pm and available on Facebook Live. Rabbi Yonason Denebeim & Rabbi 760-779-1691. New website: Shabbat morning services at 10:30 Shabbat morning Nosh and Drash Arik Denebeim www.harelurjpd.org. am. For information email info@ Virtual Torah Study Saturdays 425 Avenida Ortega, Palm Springs, Zoom Shabbat Evening Services orhamidbar.org. at 10:00 am via Zoom. “Jewish CA 92264 www.chabadpalmsprings. 5 pm with Rabbi Richard Zionts, University” from 1:30-3 PM also on com 760-325-0774 Ph.D., Cantor Joseph Gole, D.Mus. SUN CITY JEWISH SERVICES Zoom. No charge. RSVP requested. 5:30 pm: Pre-Shabbat services and a Guest Cantor. Discussion with Rabbi Kenneth Emert; Cantor offered online Friday afternoons. attendees before and after the Alan Scott. Virtual Services held TEMPLE SINAI (Member, Union Check website for information. Shabbat Services. the first and third Fridays at 7:15 for Reform Judaism) Saturday 11 am—Zoom Torah pm. Information: Contact Susan Rabbi David Novak CHABAD OF PALM DESERT Study with Discussion conducted Katzman, 760-641-0411 or email 73-251 Hovley Lane West, Rabbi Mendy Friedman by Rabbi Zionts. For Zoom invite SusanK92253gmail.com. Palm Desert, CA 92260. www. Call for information: 760-651-2424. email [email protected]. templesinaipd.org 760-568-9699. www.chabadpd.com 760-969-2153 TEMPLE HAR SHALOM, Go to templesinaipd.org for access / 760-969-2158 CONGREGATION SHALOM Idyllwild information. Friday evening services BAYIT (Reform) (951) 468-0004. 5:30 pm. Saturday morning Torah CHABAD OF RANCHO MIRAGE Rabbi Kenneth Milhander, 1320 W. www.templeharshalomidyllwild.org study 8:45 am; Shabbat morning Rabbi Shimon Posner Williams Ave., Banning, CA 92220. Email: services 10 am. 72295 Via Marta, Rancho Mirage, Contact 951-392-5380. templeharshalomofidyllwild@gmail. CA 92270. www.chabadrm.com com. BIKUR CHOLIM Erev Shabbat Services via Zoom A project of Chabad of Palm the third Friday of each month with Springs & Desert Communities Rabbi David Lazar. (Community Outreach) www.BikurCholimPS.com Every other Friday of the Rabbi Yankel Kreiman - month: Shabbat Candle Lighting 760-325-8076, and with Rabbi Emerita Malka Rabbi Mendy Kreiman - Drucker at 5:45 pm. Contact 760-567-6726.. templeharshalomofidyllwild@gmail. com for Zoom link to services. 16 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Community Calendar of Online Programs - March 2021 Email (preferred) Miriam Bent at [email protected] or call 760-323-0255 to have your events included in the community calendar.

Mondays: program: Rabbi Steven Rosenberg to register: [email protected] or date/time to be announced. Go to 2:00 pm - Chabad of Palm Springs/Sun and DAP-PrEP’s Andy Ansell invite 760-324-4737. See article page 12. havurahofthedesert.org and click on City: Virtual class: The Prayerbook, community to join their online RSVP online. See ad page 7. with Sussie Denebeim discussion on ‘HIV 101.’ See details in Wednesday, March 10 7:30 pm - Chabad of Palm Springs/ classified ad on page 22. 3:30 pm Har-El virtual film discussion Tuesday, March 16 Sun City: Virtual class: “The Prophets: of “Gut Shabbos Vietnam,” a All Day Federation Day at Tamarisk Stories that shaped our history” with Thursday, March 4 documentary film of a young Israeli Country Club. Women’s golf in the Rabbi Baruch (Boz) Werdiger. 7:00 pm Sabra Hadassah of the couple going to Ho Chi Minh City morning; men’s golf in the afternoon. Desert virtual meeting. Program: to establish a Chabad community See ad page 2 and registration form Tuesdays: Lorna Landvik, author, actress and there. Review and discussion led by on page 4. 7:00 pm – Chabad of Palm Springs/ comedienne. It is suggested that Rebbetzin Sussie Denebeim of Sun City: Virtual class: “Insights for those attending read her book “Oh Chabad of Palm Springs & Sun City. Tuesday, March 16 Daily Living, from the Torah” with My Stars” as she will be featuring it at E-mail [email protected] for 5:00 pm In anticipation of Pesach, Sussie Denebeim. the meeting. $20. RSVP to Treasurer ZOOM invite. Jewish Federation is again offering Nancy Singer: 760-345-7647. our community a free online holiday Wednesdays: Sunday, March 14 cooking program: Chef Michael 7:00 pm – Temple Isaiah Virtual Sundays, March 7 and March 14 11:00 am Beth Shalom 10th Annual Solomonov’s Passover Cooking “Dynamic Discussions” with Rabbi 11:00 am Beth Shalom 10th Annual Scholar Program. Compassionate demonstration. Contact the Jewish Steven Rosenberg. Attend by Scholar Program. Compassionate Conversations / Part 2: Rabbi J.B. Federation to receive your link for going to website: templeisaiahps. Conversations: Thought-provoking Sacks in dialogue with Rabbi Dayle the program: [email protected] or com and click on link. Offered twice a Dialogue Between Rabbi Dr. J.B. Sacks Friedman, BCC (Philadelphia, PA) 760-324-4737. See ad page 2. month. Check website for dates and and four of the national’s leaders in and Cantor Dr. Rhoda Harrison discussion topics/guests. spiritual healing. March 7: Rabbi Dr. (Cherry Hill, NJ). See article on page Sunday, March 21 Richard Address (Philadelphia, PA) 7 and ad on page 11. 11:00 am Temple Har Shalom/ Thursdays: and Rabbi Dr. Shira Stern, BCC Idyllwild pre-Passover Workshop 3:30 pm – Chabad of Palm Springs - (Marlboro, NJ). See article on page 7 Sunday, March 14 presented online by Rabbi David Virtual class: “The Mystical Parsha” with and ad on page 11. 2:00 pm Jewish Federation Women’s Lazar who will show and teach Rabbi Baruch (Boz) Werdiger. RSVP Philanthropy program for women from the Gross Family collection to Boz Werdiger, [email protected], Monday, March 8 contributing a minimum of $180 Judaica: “Suffering and Liberation or 760-550-5793 6:30 pm The Jewish Federation’s to the Jewish Federation Annual in Haggadah Illustrations.” 7:00 pm – Chabad of Palm Springs/ Women’s Cultural Alliance second Campaign. Online program features RSVP: templeharshalomofidyllwild@ Sun City: Virtual “Ask the Rabbi” with session of 3 part virtual learning one of the most dynamic, exciting gmail.com Rabbi Yonason Denebeim. event Honoring Jewish Women: Jewish women on the national scene Review of Dr. Pamela S. Nachell’s book today, Suzy Weiss-Frischmann. See Wednesday, March 24 Saturdays: “American Jewish Women, A History ad page 12. 3:30 pm Har-El: Sandra & Robert 7:00 pm Havurah of the Desert: from Colonial Times to Today” by Borns Lecture Series/Third program: Havdalah followed by film Jackie Cohen, Arlene Morse and Leslie Monday, March 15 through Dr. Judah Cohen, Director of and webinar discussions. For Pepper. (Note: Pam Nadell is lecturing Thursday, March 18 the Jewish Sacred Music program information and Zoom link: info@ about the book on Monday, March 15, Beginning 9:00 am Havurah at Indiana University: “Musical havurahofthedesert.org. part of Temple Emanu-El in New York’s of the Desert program “Shared Theater and Holocaust Memory: education series. It’s free to register Legacies” The African American- Understanding a Complex History.” Wednesday, March 3 and with your rsvp for our March Jewish Civil Rights Alliance. Free Contributions by Cantor Joseph Gole. 7:00 pm Temple Isaiah “Dynamic 8 event we will register you for this film screening available for three E-mail [email protected] for Discussions” Twice Blessed (LGBTQ) lecture). Contact the Jewish Federation days, with follow-up discussion ZOOM Invite See ad page 13.

JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 17 Social Media Superstar Launches Campaign to 50 Million Followers Against Anti-Semitism Martin: ‘As a girl of Jewish and Hispanic descent, I have received my fair share of hate on social media over the years.’ By Sergio Garcia, Arutz Sheva Social media superstar Baby Ariel spoken out against racism, bullying Baby Ariel will join the discussion as has launched a new campaign, calling and has been a champion for the a representative of her generation on her tens of millions of followers underdog. Her self-directed and at the Combat Anti-Semitism to spread awareness about anti- produced music video Wildside, Movement’s Annual Summit, taking Semitism and hatred. In a message pays homage to the trans community. place online on March 1st. across her social media platforms, She won the Teen Choice Award for Since Baby Ariel posted the video Baby Ariel reflected on the abuse “Choice Muser” in 2016 and 2017 on January 27th, it has been liked, she has received as a Jewish-Hispanic and has been cited as a top influencer Ariel “Baby Ariel” Martin commented on or shared by more woman and detailed how such hate, by Forbes, People and USA Today. again in too many places around the than one million people across Tik if left unchallenged, can culminate in In a video message, published world… We need to speak up now Tok, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. and white supremacism. In across her social media accounts, and do something about it, because it In just a matter of days, the campaign just three days, more than one million Baby Ariel revealed her own personal is spreading and it can happen again.” has succeeded in bringing a message of her followers have engaged in the experience of hatred, saying “As a Emphasizing Martin Luther King of tolerance and hope to a wide campaign. girl of Jewish and Hispanic descent, Jr’s quote that “Hate cannot drive audience. Baby Ariel, whose real name is Ariel I have received my fair share of hate out hate, only love can do that,” Sacha Roytman Dratwa, Executive Martin, is an American social media on social media over the years and Baby Ariel concludes by saying “let’s Director, Combat Anti-Semitism star, singer and actress. She currently trust me, it always hurts to get hate spread awareness, light and love Movement said, “We are delighted has 35 million Tik Tok followers, 9 because of who you are.” to drive out the hate,” urging her that Baby Ariel is taking this important step to engage young people in the million Instagram followers, 1 million She then warned about a “hate that followers to “Share your story of how fight against anti-Semitism and hatred. Twitter followers and her YouTube kills” and asked viewers to “Imagine you have received and overcome She is one of the most influential channel has 3 million subscribers. getting targeted, arrested and killed hate with the hashtag #smashhate global voices for a new generation. Baby Ariel released the first of several because of your religion or skin color, and #neveragain”. singles in 2017 and has written and your sexuality or because of your Sadly, social media is too often filled The campaign aims to increase with bigotry and intolerance and produced new music coming out disability.” Baby Ariel then described awareness among young people history shows us that such words in the summer. She has starred in a how “the Nazis murdered six million regarding the dangers of anti- are soon followed by acts of hate. number of TV and movie roles, most Jews and another six million Catholics, Semitism, racism and hatred, Baby Ariel is amplifying the voices notably in Disney Channel’s “Zombies Jehovah’s Witnesses, gay men and encouraging them to speak out of tolerance and respect, spreading 2” and an upcoming starring role in women and children with disabilities.” and take action against it. It is being the hope which will ultimately defeat the thriller “Oracle”. Since her rise In the video, she goes on to warn coordinated in partnership with the h ate.” to fame aged 15, Ariel has always “that same kind of hate is riding Combat Anti-Semitism Movement. Senior Iranian Cleric Calls for End to Hostilities with Israel “It’s time for the Iranian regime to cease inventing enemies that do not exist,” says opposition figure Abdol-Hamid Masoumi-Tehrani. By i24NEWS and Israel Hayom Staff A former senior Iranian cleric whose “ayatollah” title was revoked of Israel.” the country. spoke with Israeli media for the by Tehran due to disagreements The ex-religious According to the opposition figure, first time from Tehran, calling for an with the regime, told Israel’s Channel figure confessed the Islamic Republic is a “dictatorship end to hostilities between the two 12 News that he has «no problem» that his longtime that stifles dissenting opinions and countries and saying that the Islamic with the Jewish state. wish has been to freedom of expression.” Republic’s frequent talks about “It is time for the Iranian regime to travel to Jerusalem Ayatollah Abdol- “With God’s help, if I stay alive, I Hamid Masoumi- their intention to destroy Israel are stop inventing enemies that don’t and “pray at the Tehran would like to see the day when the “serious.” exist,” he asserted. “The Iranians Western Wall.” illogical hostility between Iran and In an unprecedented interview, and the Jews have many years Tehrani also added that since the Israel will end,” he concluded. Ayatollah Abdol-Hamid Masoumi- of friendship, I have not met any 1980s, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Tehrani, a current opposition figure Iranians who had a negative opinion Khamenei has been trying to “ruin” 18 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com Newswww.jfedps.org ews mmunity Tevet/Shevat 5780 - February 2020 mmunity Nwww.jfedps.org Co Jewish Co JewishTevet/Shevat 5779C - Januaryo 2019mmunity News Jewish Jewish C www.jfedps.org The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert ommunity The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert The Publicationterrorism of theand violent Jewish attack. Federation While of the Desert Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 - December 2019 HELP US KEEP The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert Partnering with ADL:the A Coachella World Valley of is notDifference a large News www.jfedps.org Run | Hide | Fight enough Jewish community to afford Cheshvan/Kislev 5779 - November 2018 Incident in Palm Springs Must Be a Call to Action Against Hate a full-time security director, our By Bruce Landgarten, Jewish Federation CEO The actions implied in these three Jewish Federation is dedicated to On a Saturday and spray painted on a sidewalk at of Mr. Weinstein’s building. utilized in recent years is their anti- words saves lives. It was proven 16 helping agencies prepare, mitigate, morning in late Florida State University, a tree in New Let me be clear: Graffiti and bullying training. Jewish Federation understanding. Workshops and months ago, when the Tree of Life The Anti-Defamation League and respond to a crisis as part of our October, Palm City, N.Y., a Jewish couple’s mailbox in vandalism will not be tolerated, and "fights anti-Semitism and all forms allocations and the proceeds from Assembly programs are provided Springs police Phoenix, and on it goes. the Jewish community rejects the Synagogue in Pittsburgh was the site (CSI), Communal Security Initiative.the Tamarisk Men’s Golf Tournament for students in Becoming-an-Ally, of the worst anti-Semitic attack on of bigotry, defends democratic responded to The swastika is the all-purpose hatred these symbols represent. ideals, and protects civil rights for We are committed to the continuationfunds ADL’s ‘A World of Difference Cyber-Ally, Peer Leadership and Peer reports of a swastika hate symbol, the mother of all hate While this may be an isolated incident, American soil. As horrible as the attack all.” Our desert Jewish community of efforts to help train and educateInstitute’ in which we bring into our Training, designed to give a voice to drawn outside the brands. There is no single explanation we cannot allow this behavior to on that Shabbat morning was, the local schools. This program offers the targets of bullying and prejudice, advancing self-sufficiency and has a long symbiotic history with the safety and security awareness. office of Weinstein for the new omnipresence of this become routine. Everyone has a anti-bias, bullying prevention, and build empathy in the aggressors and THE JEWISH security training given the leadership ADL, turning to them for direction (left to right)Secure Federation Community Board co-chairs Network has stimulating social entrepreneurship “Jerusalem is the heart of our heart, the andsoul Associates. of our soul.” —symbol. Elie Law Wiesel enforcement officers role to play in combating bigotry diversity training for students and inspire bystanders to become allies. as usual. People in coastal North San Diego County and members of the Pittsburgh Jewish and leadership when anti-Semitic Allan Lehmannbecome and Celia a proven, Norian, ADL’scritical partner A swastika drawn with a crayon was say bona fide neo-Nazis are growing —we must advocate, educate and Annie M. Ortega, and Federation CEO educators. Interactive, cutting Jerusalem: dropping their and Jerusalem. community in the preceding eighteen incidents have occurred in our In addition, our Federation reported by Palm Springs attorney bolder and more public, reflecting investigate until hate is no longer for Jewish Federation of theedge Desert, programs rooted in research partners with ADL to bring an it’s a headline, kids off at Dr. Marik Shtern, an Urban months unquestionably saved lives. community and taking advantage Bruce Landgarten. Robert Weinstein on a sign outside an increase in the influence of racist welcome in our society. 2020, our Jewish throughout theworking years. with our Federationto equip and participantsin to counter annual educational program to our a muse, a school, going to Geographer, is a visiting lecturer of their educational programming his office. While most people know ideology in the political conversation. At the Jewish Federation of On January 15, Patrick Daly, SCN; Jewish Federation Board Chair Roberta Nyman, SCN’s Brad Orsini, andThe Jewish ADL programtraining with that our our local lawprejudice enforcement and bigotry as well as community. This year’s program will symbol and work, shopping at UC San Diego, and a researcher Federation CEO Bruce Landgarten with three membersat Tree of theof LifeRiverside Synagogue Sheriff’s Department. made a something about the Holocaust, they Police say that many of the crimes the Desert, our CAST initiative Federation, in partnership with Secure community has agencies. focused on andSecurity Communitypromote positive human relations be Tuesday, November 27th, with an actual in the market. at the Jerusalem Institute for Policy have no idea how much horror, pain involve kids who are rebelling, aware (Combatting Anti-Semitism Today) Community Network, hosted a session As devastating as were the eleven practice of not carrying his cell phone through increased knowledge and Dr. Peter Simi. (See ad on page 4). city in which Perhaps that Research His fields of research are Remembering KristallnachtNetwork has also become our and fear is tied up with the swastika that the swastika is bad, but perhaps aims to prepare individuals to stand deaths, it could have been far worse. on Shabbat. Appreciating that without people work, is because seemingly intractable dilemmas with Geographies of Encounter, Urban “Before and After the Tree of Life: “community insurance policy.” When symbol. ignorant to the fact that it symbolizes up and fight for social justice while 75th Anniversaryhis phone he couldn’t – Denmark’s contact law Daring Rescue of Their Jews celebrate, Jerusalemites know a little secret: this bold new approaches. Geopolitics and Jewish-Arab from a peak in High Tor State Park in Lessons Learned” with Brad Orsini. The training given to Pittsburgh’s conflict in the Middle East heats up or Do people understand the links genocide. faced with hostile behavior, aiming to Israeli and Danishenforcement dignitaries in case of an emergency, m o u r n , city does not belong to one religion Panel Speakers include Chaya relations in Jerusalem. As a social New York to a picnic table outside the Orsini, a former FBI agent, was the Jewish community may have been the terrorism level rises in the United create, between the symbol and Nazi The symbol is used so liberally that public library in Choctaw, Oklahoma. spread a message of solidarity. marked the 75th anniversaryhe began carrying of the his phone … and or nation. Instead, the Jerusalemites Gilboa, Charlene Seidle and Dr. activist, Marik also specializes in the Director of Jewish Community Security prompted by rising anti-Semitism but States, we rely upon SCN to keep us innovate, cry, pray and play. On belong to her. Germany? Nobody predicted sometimes it’s hard to know its point. I’m especially disgusted that this We call for action motivated by COMMUNITY NEWS daring rescue of morehis call than to 7,000 911 on Jews October 27, 2018, country of 4 million people. Before Marik Shtern. sphere of community empowerment for the Jewish Federation of Greater it included basic survivalfrom techniques Denmark by boat to neighboring informed and assist us with taking the Sunday, January 20, 2019, the This interactive educational the outrage,Chaya Gilboahurt and was sadness born this in Changes in the swastika’s use reflect perpetrator, or group of perpetrators, freedom and tolerance, rather than the war, Denmark's small Jewish could now move against the Jews. and strategic consulting for third Pittsburgh, and had implemented and the rethinking of Swedenpriorities during The Worldwas War the firstII. Israel’s call to reach police. Leichtag Foundation is bringing a program will give participants an action has caused. There is an issue changes in the hate community. crayoned a swastika, a historic and hatred and fear. To learn more, call necessary measurespopulation and precautions was well integrated into In September Hitler approved the Jerusalem to an ultra-Orthodox sector organizations. President Reuven RivlinIt andis a matter Danish of record that Jewish unique perspective on Jerusalem experience of Jerusalem through of intolerance in America today. It’s Its users can be divided into two extreme emblem of hatred, in front 760-324-4737. security training protocols, beginning community learned that a moving to secure our facilitiesthe community. and people. On April 9, 1940, deportation of the Danish Jews. family. A social activist, she is We hope you will join us for Prime Minister Lars Loekkeinstitutions, Rasmussen Federations, It's onesynagogues, of the great almost to the Jewish Federation of the the lens of some of the city's most disturbing that it has happened, but broad categories: vandals — who in 2017, for Pittsburgh’s extensive target is much harder to hit, and on Germany attacked Denmark. From Werner Best of the SS, Hitler's chief committed to creating alternatives Jerusalem 2020: Beneath the paid tribute to the events in 1943 in unknown stories of World War II. In Desert. The program will be held creative residents and its profoundI’m not convinced it was planned or are by far the more numerous — and Jewish institutions (synagogues, JCCs, that horrible morning it was those JCCs, camps and day schools have then until 1945, Denmark was under in Denmark, received the final order within the realm of religion and Headlines for a peek into the world ceremonies at the small fishing town 1943, in German-occupied Denmark, at the Jewish Federation, beginning challenges. We’ll also hear frompremeditated. ideologues. schools, etc.) servicing the area’s were able to run that survived. been the target of hatred, extremism, German occupation. Most Danes were to proceed with deportation of Jews state, establishing Hashgacha Pratit, of social activists in Jerusalem of Gilleleje, some 50 kilometers (31 the Danish people find out that all at 11:00 am. There is no charge, but keynote speaker Dr. Jeffrey Solomon, Swastika use is on the rise, but Vandals mark the swastika pro-British and anti-Nazi, but they to death camps, on Sept.28, 1943. an alternative kashrut system and working to make a difference in 50,000+ Jews. Before the training,miles) north the Rabbi of Copenhagen. 7,500 Danish Jews are about to be reservations are required as space among those who understand it anonymously and covertly; they were also aware of the need to adjust The Nazis were prepared to deport President of the Andrea and Charles active in crafting egalitarian wedding one of the most important cities in The training made a difference. rounded up and deported to German is limited. least. The swastika has morphed into don’t display it at rallies in the town “The rescue of the Jews of to living in a German-dominated the 7,500 Jews, starting at 10 PM. on Bronfman Philanthropies (TBC) and ceremonies and other initiatives the world. We will also receive an Denmark is a remarkable event in concentration camps. Danish citizens The world seems to want violence a universal symbol of hate. People square. Some in this category are Europe. Danes and Germans quickly Oct.1, 1943. Georg F. Duckwitz, a luminary of Jewish philanthropy, that combine feminism and Jewish up-to-date briefing on the recent the history of the Holocaust, a bright spontaneously make their ownmedia platforms. The time for in Jerusalem. It expects and awaits it. didn’t give their lives fighting Hitler individuals, often adults, who don’t worked out the terms of occupation. German maritime attaché, leaked out about why he sees Jerusalem as identity. Jerusalem Municipal Elections which US Congress Debate Responselight in the to darkest Rising time in been human Anti-Semitism, coming decision: to America it's not since going Domestic to happen.thoughts and prayersTerrorism has passed — And today’s Jerusalemites are saying: an important philanthropic lab.for Nazi ideas to go unchallenged care about ideology and use the ( JCN) COMING TO King Christian X remained in Denmark, the order to Hans Hedtoft a Danish Charlene Seidle is the Executive are widely thought to be a preview By Algemeiner Staff history. Denmark is a shining example And it didn't. Risking their ownthe lives, time now is for action.” here at home. Hitler’s torch shows swastika as a psychological weapon on Intelligence & Counterterrorism before it was even called America unlike his fellow monarchs in Norway Social Democrat, who in turn warned Not us, not now. They refuse to act Attendees will be challenged, Vice President of the Leichtag of the trends that will be seen in of a country that stood at the side the Danes quickly rallied roundExperts to addressing the hearing no sign of burning out. against someone because of a in order to freely practice their and the Netherlands who fled to C.B. Henriques, the head of the Jewish out the script that’s been written delighted and surprised as they meet Foundation, a private independent national Israel elections to be held Two separate hearings at the titled “Confrontingof its Jewish the Rise community in Anti- during the save their fellow citizens, and almost In the recent past, swastikas have personal grudge or beef. Thanks to religion, escape persecution, and included Nathanescape the Diament Germans — and the establish Community. for them. Despite pressure from activists from across the spectrum of foundation committed to igniting in early 2019. Semitic DomesticHolocaust. Terrorism.” The Jewish people and the all of the country's Jews were able to US Congress in mid-January have executiveresistance director movementsof the Union in England.of The On September 29th, two days national and international leaders, Jerusalem’s multifaceted society andappeared across America. No place a combination of hate, ignorance state of Israel will never forgetbuild that,” a betterescape life the for clutches their families. of the Nazis and and inspiring vibrant Jewish life, examined potential measures that “The horrific rise in anti-Semitic Danish government continued to rule. before the projected round up on what Jerusalemites actually see on engage with thought leaders tacklingseems safe. The swastika has been and nihilism, the swastika has been Rivlin said. Yet now wefind are refuge under in assaultneutral Sweden. by Orthodox Jewish Congregations of legislators can take in response domestic terrorism is an issue that In August, 1943, a state of Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish New the ground is daily life continuing etched on parked cars in Miami Beach, painted, posted, scratched, chalked extremists, Denmark many of was whom a small are idyllic America — who argued that the Cincinnati, and Port Washington, N.Y., and inked on all manner of surfaces, to the recent rise in anti-Semitic has deeply affected my district, emergency wascontinued declared on page in Denmark, 2 Year, Dr. Marcus Melchior, the acting emboldened to act and often and the Nazis decided that they rhetoric and attacks across America. my community, and the whole chief Rabbi of the Krystalgaade encouraged by content on social On January 15, freshman Rep. Max New York City area,” Rose said in continued on page 21 chaired a session of the Rose (D-NY) a statement. “Jewish people have YOUR DOORSTEP Homeland Security Subcommittee The JCN, published by Jewish Federation of the Desert, has grown over the years. With a hard copy distribution of 10,000 copies and an online edition, thousands of readers living in Coachella Valley keep up-to-date on all things Jewish happening. It is important to our Federation‘s mission that we provide this paper free of charge to everyone in our community. But the newspaper is not inexpensive to produce. Paper and production costs have increased greatly over the past few years. We welcome donations to help offset our expenses. With your generosity, we can continue to offer such a top-notch paper to our Jewish community for many years to come. Thank you!

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JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 19 Itzhak Perlman, Rep. Jamie Raskin and a Blind Rabbi Highlight the Need for Disability Advocacy By Larry Luxner, JTA When Israeli-American violinist recent online panel organized as communities aren’t just something teacher at Chicago’s Oriole Park Itzhak Perlman debuted at Carnegie part of Jewish Disability Advocacy that would be nice to have, they’re School and a cabinet member Hall in 1963, he performed while Month. essential to ensuring the future of of the Jewish Federation of seated — a consequence of the Perlman was joined by a young our Jewish community,” Mark Wilf, Metropolitan Chicago. In 2009, polio that left him unable to walk synagogue pianist from New Jersey chair of the Jewish Federations’ doctors diagnosed her with without leg braces or crutches since with autism, a Chicago elementary board of trustees, said at the multiple sclerosis — a debilitating age 4. school teacher who has multiple February 3 event. “Given how few disease that’s not always apparent “I got a standing ovation, but The sclerosis, a blind rabbi and three in number we are as a people, to outsiders. New York Times reviewer wasn’t influential members of Congress, we need to make sure that we’re “I’ve always said I have an invisible sure if that was because of the way among others. pursing every avenue available to illness,” she said at the event. “There I played or because of the fact I The event was organized by engage as many Jews as possible.” are times when things are a struggle, was sitting down while playing,” the Jewish Federations of North One of those Jews is Rabbi Lauren and I’ve learned to hide it well.” recalled Perlman, now 75. “That America as a kickoff for 50 planned Tuchman, 35, who was ordained Perlman explained how it’s often thing followed me for two or three online events in February to in 2018 by the Conservative the person with disabilities who is years. Then people got used to me highlight disability awareness and movement’s Jewish Theologicaltreated as invisible. and they stopped talking about it.” advocacy ranging from “Israel’s Seminary as the world’s first blind “I used to go to the airport in The renowned musician and Disability Trailblazers” to “Making female rabbi. A resident of the a wheelchair. Right now, I’m in a conductor — the winner of 16 the World More Accessible During Washington, D.C., area, she speaks scooter because I don’t walk quite Grammy Awards, four Emmys and COV I D.” often about disability inclusion. as I used to,” Perlman said. “But the Presidential Medal of Freedom “One in four adults in this country “The Torah teaches us that we all people still look at you sitting in — spoke of his experience at a has a disability. That means inclusive stood outside Sinai collectively and a chair, and for some reason they received the Ten Commandments. stop talking to you, and instead This is one of the most important they talk to the person with you. DESERT HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL — if not the most important For example, at the airport, the — foundational events in our person behind the counter would collective experience as a Jewish ask, ‘Where is he going?’ It’s always people,” Tuchman said. the case.” She began reading at age 2, used Last year marked the 30th a Braille embosser in rabbinical anniversary of the Americans With school, and today employs a variety Disabilities Act, or ADA, a civil rights of software apps to help her read law that prohibits discrimination and study. against individuals with disabilities “Though we still live in a world in all areas of public life, including with many barriers,” Tuchman jobs, transportation and all places said, “with a lot of discrimination open to the general public. and challenges — particularly Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md., the in this past year of unparalleled House majority leader who challenge — ours is a tradition that sponsored passage of the ADA commands us to always make sure in 1990, described the landmark The Desert Holocaust Memorial is located in the Palm Desert we are including everyone, and legislation during the event last Civic Center Park at San Pablo Avenue & Fred Waring Drive. that we’re doing all we can to break week as “a grand instrument of Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit this moving down those barriers that preclude tikkun olam,” repairing the world, memorial, a place of remembrance and us from creating a society in which because it changed the way monument of hope. all of us can thrive.” Americans viewed their neighbors Shayla Rosen, 35, is a first-grade continued on page 21 20 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com continued from page 20 insurance coverage for telemedicine, whose physical abilities differed as well as more funding for nutritional Have A Nosh With Miriam from their own. programs that benefit low-income This will be our second year of a Thanks to the ADA, Hoyer said, Americans. “Pandemic Pesach” and I am feeling crosswalks with audible guides and “Many of my patients have sad as I think how Nat and I will once again not be sharing this special ramps are now taken for granted. disabilities of one sort or another. holiday with our dear friends. The New buildings are required to have But the reason I’m here is to go to rest of the year we manage pretty elevators. Wheelchair-accessible bat for people who need a hand well staying isolated at home, but ramps are standard at public — whether that’s a mom with two Pesach is different! buildings. kids trying to get by on one job or a In trying to decide which recipes to include for you I decided we all have meat and chicken recipes we can prepare, but Pesach But full equality remains child who needs special education,” desserts have special requirements. Chocolate is always a pick-me-up in sad elusive. With a disability-friendly Schrier told Darcy Hirsh, the Jewish moments, so chocolate desserts it will be! administration now in the White Federations’ director of government Wishing you a safe seder so that you will be well and here to celebrate in the House, Hoyer said, “Now is exactly affairs. years to come! Hag samayach Pesach! MHB the time for the disability advocacy “This is a time of really CHOCOLATE CHIP MIRACLE BARS community to carry forth the fight unprecedented need in our country. 2 cups ground almonds 2 eggs full inclusion, access and equality.” Supporting advocacy work for 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup chocolate chips Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., whose people with disabilities just makes Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 9” x13” pan. Lay a piece of parchment 25-year-old son, Tommy, committed sense to somebody who’s a mother, a paper (or wax paper) on bottom and grease too. Grind almonds in your food pediatrician, a member of Congress processor but watch carefully as you grind them, so they don’t become almond suicide Dec. 31 after a lifelong battle butter! Adding a little of the sugar in with the almonds helps with controlling with depression, said the issue of and frankly as a Jew who sees the the grinding. Mix ingredients together and spread in pan with spatula. Batter disabilities is particularly close to his humanity in everyone.” will be thick but do not add water. Just mix it well. Bake for 23 minutes. Cool heart. before cutting. “There are tens of millions of CHOCOLATE SPARKLE COOKIES people who have different kinds ½ lb. semisweet chocolate 3/4 cup ground almonds (take a of disabilities — whether they’re 3 Tbsp. pareve margarine, teaspoon from the sugar and grind in physical or mental — and we want a room temperature food processor) society that is open for everybody, 2 eggs “Confectioner’s sugar”: ¼ cup sugar 1/3 cup sugar, plus more for rolling mixed with ½ teaspoon potato starch and that promotes everybody’s Melt the chocolate (I do it in short bursts in the microwave oven). Cut the success and best health,” said Raskin, margarine into a few pieces and stir into the chocolate until melted. Beat the thanking the Jewish Federations eggs with an electric mixer, gradually adding the sugar until ribbons form. Fold for its advocacy efforts on Capitol in the chocolate-butter mixture. Gently add the ground almonds. Cover and Hill throughout the coronavirus refrigerate overnight to set. pandemic. Use a cookie scoop to form the dough into 1” balls. Roll the balls in granulated sugar, place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart and immediately place “Your work is more critical than in the oven. ever,” he said. “There’s going to be Bake until the center of the cookies is no longer wet, 10 - 12 minutes. When lobbying around telehealth and slightly cool, lightly dust the cookies with Pesach-acceptable “confectioner’s making sure that’s part of the solution. sugar” made by whirling together the ¼ cup sugar with ½ teaspoon potato Consider me a close partner.” starch in the food processor. Fellow Jewish lawmaker Rep. Kim CHOCOLATE COATED FIG-GINGER BALLS 1 Schrier, D-Wash., said she left her 2 cups dried black mission figs* /2 teaspoon ground cinnamon work as a pediatrician to go into (about 8 oz) 1 Tablespoon honey politics in 2017 “because I wanted 1/4 cup crystallized ginger (about 2 oz) Chocolate chips to melt for coating balls everybody to be able to afford Remove the stems from the figs and discard. Coarsely chunk the figs and put in a food health care.” processor with the crystallized ginger, cinnamon and honey. Pulse until ingredients are finely chopped but not processed into a paste. Roll the fig mixture into heaping Among other things, Schrier said teaspoon sized balls. Dip balls in melted chocolate, then place on a parchment paper she’s pushing for the next stimulus lined cookie sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate hardens! Makes about 18 balls. package now being debated *Other figs will work just as well. Mission figs just make a softer ball. in Congress to include greater JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 21 Simchas Candle Lighting Times

Congratulations to cousins were in Lithuania on a roots Friday, March 5 Shabbat Ki Tisa 5:03 pm Kevin Giser on his research trip. Their search took them Friday, March 12 Shabbat Vayakhel-Pekudei 5:08 pm recent promotion to a clerk in a small town who, when Friday, March 19 Shabbat Vaykra 6:14 pm to A s s o c i a t e asked about the family, pulled out (Note: Daylight savings time begins Sunday, March 14) Director of our Susan's column from our paper in Friday, March 26 Shabbat Hagadol 6:19 pm Jewish Federation ... which the searched-for relatives were Saturday, March 27 First Seder After 7:40 pm Hopefully many of mentioned! It is a small world! ... We Sunday, March 28 Second Seder After 7:41 pm you will remember listed Hy Cohen's passing (below) Susan Cohn, who Kevin Giser but did you know he had a brief wrote a genealogy stint as a pitcher with the Chicago We Mourn the Passing of... column in our paper Cubs in 1955? He later became a for a few years some high school teacher and coach in Hyman (Hy) Cohen, Marvin Helfgott, Rhoda Katz, Isabel Lutrin, 18-20 years ago. Van Nuys and was inducted into the Charles Nevil, Peter Palmer, Barbara Jean Roberts, Lisa Rudlin, She recently wrote Southern California Jewish Sports Buddy Shapiro, Phyllis Silver, Jill Mincer-Singer, Judy Torodor and a book, "The Art of Hall of Fame in 1996. Share your Pearl Upton. Our deepest sympathies to their families and friends. May the Mentor" and the Simchas with us. Email or call Miriam their memories endure as a blessing. Jewish Community Susan Cohn Bent at [email protected] or News is mentioned 760-323-0255. in it! She relates that two of her

PERSONAL ASSISTANT/ Classifieds PERSONAL AFFAIRS MANAGER Excellent local references. Bill JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE paying, reconcile bank statement, SUPPORTERS welcomed. run errands, drive to appointment. JFS has rewarding volunteer Computer help: MS Office, opportunities in its community QuickBooks, emails. Notary. 2 programs and is now accepting hours minimum. Trustworthy, applications for several positions. discreet, dependable. 760-408- Tribute cards provide a unique 5260. way to celebrate a special occasion or honor a loved one, all THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE while supporting JFS programs. If Swedish, deep tissue, and foot you’re interested in learning more reflexology modalities. Treat about volunteer opportunities yourself or someone you love to or supporting JFS through the a wonderful therapeutic massage. purchase of tribute cards, please Jewish Massage Therapist with over contact 760-325-4088 ext. 101. 30 years experience; nine in the desert. Will come to your home or MegaChallah WILL BE VIRTUAL at my location. Call Leora at 760- THIS YEAR but you will make a real 778-0068. challah for Shabbat! Ladies, save Thursday, May 20 at 6:30 PM to join a Temple Isaiah's TWICE BLESSED of DAP to discuss PreP/PEP, STIs and and conversation with all participants sisterhood of women making challah (LGBTQ) brings the first "Dynamic Co-morbidities Wednesday, March welcomed. No charge. Get Zoom link in our own homes! Information? Call Discussion" of Rabbi Steven 3 at 7:00 pm. Everyone welcome to at www.templeisaiahps.com or call 760-848-8250. Rosenberg as he invites Andy Ansell attend virtual program. Questions 760-325-2281. 22 • JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com The Rabbis of our community were Services: First Day: Sunday, March templeharshalomofidyllwild@ email: temple@templeisaiahps. invited to share what was being 28/10 am, led by Ken Hailpern. gmail.com com; 760-325-2281. offered by their congregations Second Day: Monday, March 29/10 Virtual Community Seder: Sunday, Virtual Community Seder: for Pesach. The information of am, led by Rabbi J.B. Sacks with March 28: Second night, 6:00 pm. Saturday, March 27: First night, those who responded is listed Congregation Am HaYam. Seventh Conducted by Rabbi Ererita Malka 7:00 pm. Conducted by Rabbi below. Recognizing that in-person day: Saturday, April 3/10 am, Drucker and Song Leader Shiranda Steven Rosenberg. Open to all. community seders would not be led by Ken Hailpern. Eighth day: Zee. Open to anyone. No fee but No fee. possible this year, a variety of Sunday, April 4/10 am, including donation appreciated. Services: First Day: Sunday, March options are being offered to honor Yizkor, led by Ken Hailpern. 28/10 am, led by Rabbi Steven the “community” component. Yizkor • OR HAMIDBAR: (Rabbi David Rosenberg. Eighth day: Morning services will be observed by Reform/ • CONGREGATION HAR-EL: Lazar) https://www.facebook. service and Yizkorv10 am. Liberal Rabbis on the seventh day (Rabbi Richard Zionts) Email: com/orhamidbarps; RSVP: info@ of Pesach; the traditional eighth day [email protected]. orhamidbar.org • TEMPLE SINAI: (Rabbi observed by the other congregations. 760-779-1691. Virtual Community Seder: David Novak). Link available at Virtual Community Seder: Saturday, March 27: First night, templesinaipd.org 760-568-9699. • BETH SHALOM: (Ken Hailpern) Saturday, March 27: First night, 6:30 pm. Conducted by Rabbi Seders: Limited to members, Seder and all services are virtual 5:30 pm. Conducted by Rabbi David Lazar. Open to anyone. No Temple Sinai is matching up on Zoom. Link available at Richard Zionts and Cantor Joseph fee, but donation appreciated. congregants for virtual seders. CongregationBethShalom.net. Gole. Non-members: Please Services: First Day: Sunday, March Services: Information: 760-200-3636. request Zoom invitation prior to 28/10:30 am, led by Rabbi David Yizkor will be part of Temple Sinai’s Virtual Community Seder: Sunday, March 22. Lazar; 7th Day Morning Service and regular Shabbat morning worship March 28: Second night, 5:00 Yizkor Saturday, April 3, 10:30am on April 3, 2021. Service begins pm: led by Rabbi J.B. Sacks and in • CONGREGATION HAR at 10 am; Yizkor should be at conjunction with Congregation Am SHALOM (Idyllwild): (Rabbi • TEMPLE ISAIAH: (Rabbi Steven approximately 10:50 am. HaYam of Ventura. Emerita Malka Drucker) RSVP: Rosenberg) templeisaiahps.com;

JCN • March 2021 • Adar/Nissan 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 23 JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE DESERT Nonprofit 69-710 Highway 111 Organization U.S. Postage Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Paid (760) 324-4737 Permit #113 Santa Ana, CA

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