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Vally of the Sun JCC to be Orthodox Union study renamed for Martin Pear program comes to Phoenix RICH SOLOMON | MANAGING EDITOR ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER e would be horrified if he was still living, I think.” reat launch of @SCP_Learning at the Yeshiva in Phoenix this week, “H Jonathan Hoffer, a partner at SMS Financial and Martin “Ga packed house!” read a Nov. 1 tweet from Jeremy Rovinsky. “All Pear’s son-in-law, was trying to imagine what his humble father-in- kinds of observant Jews — Litvish, Chabad, Modern, Sefardi, Bucharian law’s reaction would be to learning that the Valley of the Sun Jewish — coming together to master Hilchos Shabbos! #SCPrevolution.” Community Center is going to be named in his honor. “But I think In November, Phoenix became one of 28 new locations for the Orthodox he’d be so pleased for the community to honor him in this way and Union’s Semichas Chaver Program, an interactive halachah learning to see the impression he left on those who knew him.” program for men that teaches practical lessons in Jewish law and ethics in Pear was the executive director of the Phoenix Jewish Community six-month intervals. Center when it was located on Maryland Avenue, before it moved to the Rovinsky, a Phoenix resident and the dean and general counsel for Rabbi Gavriel Goetz instructing the first OU Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus and was renamed the Valley of National Paralegal College, was completing a two-and-a-half-year-long class held in Phoenix. the Sun JCC in 2002. His work ethic and compassion were legendary in halachah program nine months before the #SCPrevolution. At the time, PHOTO COURTESY OF JEREMY ROVINSKY an industrious community known for its empathy. he found himself wondering, “What’s next?” “It would be hard for him,” said Pear’s daughter, Rachel Hoffer, of As it turned out, SCP was next. Rovinsky heard about the SCP program, and between the one-night-a-week sessions, the building name. “But at the same time, I think he would also be the six month certification process and the abbreviated source material, he knew that it would be an accessible option. extremely proud and honored because he believed so deeply in the Jewish “I felt it would be manageable for a regular guy in the community to make it a success,” Rovinsky said. Community Center and peoplehood.” Hoping to launch the program in Phoenix, he sent an email to a generic address on the OU website and The renaming coincides with the VOSJCC’s new capital campaign received an unexpected response. The email he sent went directly to SCP founder Rabbi Elyada Goldwicht, who to support multiple improvements to the facility. Called “More J on the SEE OU PAGE 3 Way — Are You In?,” the campaign has already raised $2.5 million out of its total $10 million goal. The Hoffers were one of the many families in the community that the JCC approached about investing in its future. They agreed to gift a contribution to the campaign, and in the process worked to honor Pear’s selflessness. Lone Soldier letters “He wasn’t a leader who wanted to be the center of attention. He What are Phoenix’s children sending to Israeli soldiers just wanted to make a difference in community,” Rachel said. “He had a this year? Go to Page 13 to read the thoughtful passion for being with people and inspiring people, and having them put messages. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EAST VALLEY JCC their best foot forward and highlighting their strengths.” To VOSCC CEO Jay Jacobs, Pear’s name is associated with excellence, SEE PEAR, PAGE 2

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NATIONAL INTERNATIONAL ISRAEL Columbia and Tel Aviv launch dual- Israeli medical experts go to Date set for degree program Samoa to combat epidemic third Israeli elections HEADLINES PEAR can do all this behind the scenes and still have CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 families and friends who are proud of you.” Weiss was the one who suggested a capital passion and service connected to the center. campaign after he attended a JCC conference “And family is the Center,” Jacobs added. So in 2018. “It was very ingrained in me that in a tireless family man like Pear “exemplifies the order to maintain success we need to invest spirit of the JCC.” in people, programs and facilities. The board The facility will be renamed The Martin Pear decided we wanted to make this facility relevant JCC in the Valley of the Sun on Dec. 20 at 4 for the next 15 to 20 years and really invest in p.m. “This is about honoring Martin and the Martin Pear, former Phoenix JCC executive director, our future.” 2019 Phoenix Jewish News at the JCC of Binghamton in Binghamton, New JCC staff at these tireless agencies,” Jonathan York. On Dec. 20 at 4 p.m., the VOSJCC will be Honoring Pear and kicking off the campaign print dates Hoffer said. renamed to The Martin Pear JCC in the Valley of felt like a perfect marriage. “It’s about a guy In many ways, Pear’s legacy at The J was the Sun as recognition of Pear’s service to the who gave his life and service to the JCC, how community. PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL HOFFER January 4 June 7 already established even without a building community is always No. 1,” Weiss said. “What name, as he spent so much time at the JCC. me what he thought was missing from The J, we are trying to do in this campaign is show January 11 June 21 “I used to run the basketball league and and he was spot on. He was an amazingly pas- that those who have carried the community on January 18 August 9 I’d go home at 9:30 at night and he’d still be sionate, bright individual with terrific vision.” their back for many years — the Bill Levines, January 25 August 30* there,” said Jonathan Hoffer, who worked Jacobs said the renaming is as much about the Sheila Schwartzs, the Grossmans — we February 1 September 6 for Pear at the JCC. “He just made time for the community at large as it is about Pear. wanted to show that the next generation is everyone and everything. He embodied what “What we want people to take away from this ready to step up and follow their lead.” February 8 September 13 the JCC is all about. He was a true mensch. is that every generation in a JCC creates the Youthful giving seems to be part of a February 15 September 20 A true community guy.” success of the next generation — and has the larger pattern. February 22 September 27 Others who worked with Pear felt the responsibility to.” “Ninety-eight percent of the money we’ve March 1 October 4 same way. Now Rachel and Jonathan Hoffer are cel- raised so far has been donated by people 55 “He was just a mensch,” recalled Gary Weiss, ebrating the generation that preceded them and under,” said Weiss, who’s truly pleased March 15 October 18 VOSJCC board chair. “He was an unbelievably — and honoring the centrality of the JCC in Pear will receive his due this way. March 29 November 1 nice man, a simple guy. You’d ask him his name their lives. “He was a super man — he always put April 5 November 15 and he’d say, ‘Marty Pear, like the fruit.’ He “I grew up as the daughter of a JCC execu- a smile on my face,” Weiss said. “When I April 12 December 6 was super friendly, loved everybody. He always tive moving city to city,” Rachel Hoffer said. attended his funeral, the way that his grand- had a smile and a great attitude.” “It became our family when we moved to these children and children spoke about him makes April 19 December 13 Pear worked tirelessly to see the JCC serve as new cities. It was the same for Jonathan; he me want to be a little bit more like Marty Pear May 3 December 20 a hub for Phoenix’s Jewish community. Now, played basketball and met his future business every day.” May 17 *Annual with membership at an all-time high and more partners at the JCC. This is about honoring “His life’s work was to give back to the May 31 Directory than 2,000 visitors a day, The J is closer than my father and all professional staff in the Jewish Jewish community,” Rachel Hoffer said. “He ever to fulfilling Pear’s expectations. nonprofit sector. They’re the ones that really was an unbelievable dad and mentor. He was “When I first got here, he was long retired,” make everything happen.” an inspiration for how we live our lives and how WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM Jacobs said. “But when we finally met, he told Jonathan agrees. “This is to show that you we teach our children.” JN

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2 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES OU restrictions and whether it’s acceptable to ben- learn on to their families. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 efit from the work of other Jews on Shabbat. “The whole idea is that you learn in class, responded personally to Rovinsky. Classes are held at Yeshiva High School every bring it back to your Shabbos table and discuss “Rav Elyada has been super approachable,” Wednesday. Each session starts with hypo- it with your family, and make Shabbos mean- Rovinsky said. “He’s so down-to-earth.” thetical questions, which Rovinsky, a lawyer, ingful, purposeful and enjoyable,” Goetz said. For four months, Rovinsky emailed ques- compared to a “mini bar exam.” Then the There are currently about 30 men regularly tions and Goldwicht answered them. Then class works through the passages and sources participating in the program. Rovinsky reached out to Rabbi Gavriel selected by Goldwicht, and ends with discus- “Another aspect of the program that’s really Goetz, the principal of Yeshiva High School sion questions to review what they’ve learned. important is building community,” Rovinsky of Arizona, to ask him to teach the program. WhatsApp provides a universal forum for said. “I’ve made new friends in the program Initially, Goetz worried that he would be discussing the material outside the classroom. who I never even knew before but who live a too busy with his responsibilities at the high Students in all 53 SCP locations around the few blocks from me.” school, but that quickly changed. world have their own study group on the app, SCP also connects students to the global “Now that I’ve started doing it, I really love and Goldwicht often joins in the conversation. Orthodox community. All 53 groups around doing it,” Goetz said. “I love learning with “I don’t know how he does it, but when the world study the same sources and the community members, I love sharing these people ask questions on the WhatsApp group, discussion questions every week. interesting and really practical topics.” Rav Elyada chimes in,” Rovinsky said. “I don’t “It just feels good to be connected with so In September, Goetz attended the Torah know if he ever sleeps, but it’s really amazing.” many other observant Jews around the country New York Day of Learning at Citi Field, where After each course, participants can take a and around the world who are all learning the Goldwicht trained him in the curriculum and written exam and receive a certificate of accom- same things, being presented with the same implementation of SCP. plishment and divrei bracha signed by HaRav questions, seeing the same sources, trying to “Elyada has started this program all over the Hershel Schachter, dean of Yeshiva University’s earn the same credential, all at the same time,” world, and it’s really amazing that we have it Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary in Rovinsky said. here in Phoenix,” Goetz said. “We have great New York City; Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar, He credits Goldwicht and Goetz with community members that come to learn former Sephardic chief rabbi of Jerusalem; and making the program a success. and study.” HaRav Zalman Nechemia Goldberg, chief jus- “This is a great program that makes you suc- The topic of the current lesson, which tice of the Rabbinical High Court in Jerusalem. cessful in this knowledge because it’s practical, started after Sukkot and will end before Beyond achieving certification, Goetz relevant and important to know,” Goetz said. Passover, is Shabbat law. Weekly lessons cover says that another goal of the program is “It’s a great accomplishment for everybody legal questions such as the specifics of cooking for the men in the classes to pass what they who does it.” JN

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LOCAL Director of new Arizona-Israel trade office visits Phoenix LEISAH WOLDOFF | CONTRIBUTING WRITER Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Currently there are more than 20 said. “I’m excited that the governor has group’s weeklong visit included meetings Israeli-owned companies that are operating made [the trade office] a priority.” few weeks into his new role as director with several Israeli companies and Israeli in Arizona in aerospace and defense, busi- Some of the similarities between Israel Ageneral of the new Arizona-Israel Trade officials, including former defense minister ness and financial services, and technology and Arizona that make it a good match are & Investment Office, Arizona’s first trade Moshe Yaalon. and innovation. developments in sectors such as agritech and office outside of Mexico, David Ya’ari is in Although he has visited Arizona several In 2018, imports and exports between water tech, Ya’ari said, as they provide an Phoenix this week and spoke to Jewish News times in the past, this week was Ya’ari’s first Arizona and Israel totaled more than $460 opportunity to share knowledge and create about the collaboration between the Startup visit representing the new trade office, which million, twice the volume since 2010, partnerships. Additionally, they have a similar Nation and the Startup State. is located in Tel Aviv’s business district. according to the office of the governor. climate, which is another attractive factor. Ya’ari, an entrepreneur and business During his visit, his itinerary included get- Ya’ari noted that it’s very reasonable to One goal he would like to accomplish leader with an extensive background in ting to know the team at the ACA, as well expect that amount to grow to $1 billion over the next year is a delegation of Israeli technology and finance, was selected by as meeting with local business leaders and over the next decade. business owners coming to Arizona to learn the Arizona Commerce Authority, which representatives from the universities and Ya’ari says that putting Arizona on the about all the benefits the state has to offer. governs the office. from many of the Israeli-owned companies map for Israeli businesses is a priority for The trade office was funded in the fiscal One of the first highlights came on Nov. already here. him. When a venture capitalist is looking year 2020 budget approved by the Arizona 19, at the office’s opening reception, Ya’ari “It is a pleasure to welcome the new to fund a tech company or when an Israeli State Legislature and creates a platform for said. A trade delegation of members of the director,” said Leib Bolel, president and company wants to expand to the American businesses in Arizona and Israel to increase Arizona Legislature and Arizona business CEO of the Arizona Israel Technology market, “I want them to think of Arizona.” international trade and foreign direct invest- leaders were among more than 150 people Alliance, who has worked closely with the “This would never have happened without ment opportunities. who attended. The delegation included State ACA over the years in building the relation- the leadership of the governor,” Ya’ari said, Ya’ari encourages Israeli businesses who Rep. Tony Rivero (R-Peoria), chairman of ship between the business communities in who he credits for making Arizona a great want to expand to Arizona and Arizona the House State and International Affairs Arizona and Israel. “We look forward to environment for companies to invest their businesses looking into Israel to contact him committee; Susan Marie, ACA executive continuing the mission of strengthening research and development dollars and try out at [email protected]. vice president for strategy; and Glenn commerce and investment between the new prototypes. “There’s lots of innovation “I want people to know that we’re Hamer, president and CEO of the Arizona two states for the years to come.” and lots of partnerships to develop,” Ya’ari accessible and that we want to engage.” JN

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4 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

LOCAL 2020 bill proposes mandatory Holocaust education in Arizona ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER memory that it deserves,” said Steve Hilton, “As a basis for teaching genocide, the A Jewish Cemetery that cares CEO and chairman of Meritage Homes Holocaust is the best example of a man’s about the Jewish Community nly 12 states currently require schools Corporation and a major sponsor and sup- capacity for evil and also for good,” Beller Oto teach students about the Holocaust. porter of Arizona Teaching the Holocaust. said. “It’s an incredible teaching tool from Michael Beller and Josh Kay, the founders The bill that Beller and Kay are proposing that perspective.” of Arizona Teaching the Holocaust, want to would require grade- and age-appropriate Beller and Kay both learned about the make Arizona state number 13. education on the Holocaust and genocides, Holocaust from friends and neighbors grow- “It’s important to me that Holocaust edu- but leave the specific education standards up ing up. Kay is the grandson of a survivor whose cation stay at the forefront,” Beller said. “We to the Arizona State Board of Education. entire family was killed in death camps. Beller’s want to ensure that it’s taught in order to “We don’t want the legislature setting next-door neighbor was a camp liberator who combat anti-Semitism and hatred.” education curriculum,” Beller said. “We want told of what he witnessed. • Jewish Owned and Operated The number of states that require Holocaust that to be left to the academics and educators. “When you have a direct relationship with • Sidewalks at Every Grave • Jewish Owned and Operated education has been growing slowly in recent The curriculum requirements are set by the a Holocaust survivor or somebody who • Caring Professional Staff • Paved Sidewalks Throughout – years. In 2014, five states had statutes requring Board of Education, and we want to stick to fought in World War II, your awareness level • Intermarried No Need to Ever Families Walk on a Grave Welcome it. By 2017, the number had grown to eight, that process.” is different than somebody who is grow- • Intermarried Families Welcome and legislators from 20 more states pledged The current History and Social Science ing up reading textbooks and is exposed to • Beautiful(480) Open-Air 585-6060 Pavilion for Services to introduce genocide education legislation Standards, adopted by the Arizona State Board campaigns of misinformation online,” Beller 24210• Caring N.and 68thProfessional Street, Staff Phoenix as part of the Anne Frank Center for Mutual of Education in October 2018, include World said. (off Pinnacle Peak Rd) Respect’s 50 State Genocide Education War I and World War II education in seventh Hilton’s father, Sam Hilton, was also a mtsinaicemetery.com(480) 585-6060 Project. grade and education on human rights and Holocaust survivor. “As the Holocaust becomes further in the genocides in eighth grade. The standards note “I can’t think of anything more important www.mtsinaicemetery.com rearview mirror and there are less survivors that “in addition to the study of the Holocaust, that I could do to honor his legacy than to e-mail: [email protected] around, it doesn’t get the attention and the other genocides should be studied.” SEE BILL, PAGE 9 24210 N. 68th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85054 (off Pinnacle Peak Rd)

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From Cuba, with love: JAN 15  7:30PM Federation returns from mission to Havana Jewish community ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS JOAN BY PHOTO

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2020 PASSAGES Cuban flags in Havana. n Nov. 24, a Jewish Federation “I was very impressed,” said Gary Seven Great Programs from January to March Oof Greater Phoenix mission trip Weiss, chairman of the board at the Valley Featured in the January PASSAGES: returned from Havana, Cuba, where they of the Sun JCC and one of 21 Federation met with leaders of three synagogues, vis- donors who went on the mission. “We’ve ited a Holocaust memorial and delivered always supported Federation, but I was clothing, medicine and other supplies to very impressed to see it firsthand. The DNA and the Origins and Migrations of the Jewish People the Havana Jewish community. work that the Federation and the JDC Presenter: Adam Brown “We send these missions so that our does is extremely important, and these Sunday, January 12, 2020 at 7:00 PM community can see the work that we communities would perish without it.” Ina Levine JCCampus, 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale do overseas and understand Federation Close to 94% of the Jewish population better and what we do, which is really fled after the Cuban Revolution ended in that we’re a fundraising organization 1959, and today there are only around that takes care of Jewish people all over 1,200 Jews in Havana. the world,” said Shoshana Greenberg, a “We just knew numbers before the trip, Sephardic, Mizrahi, and Persian Jews in America development associate at the Federation but now we were able to put all these Presenter: Saba Soomekh, PhD who went on the mission. faces with the stories that we were hear- Sunday, January 26, 2020 at 7:00 PM The Federation organized the trip in ing,” Greenberg said. “They’ve kept their Ina Levine JCCampus, 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale conjunction with the American Jewish community strong even though it’s tiny.” Joint Distribution Committee, a global Rachel Hoffer organized the trip to Jewish humanitarian organization to Cuba. As a 2019-’20 co-chair of the For tickets and info. visit bjephoenix.org or call 480.634.8050 which the Federation allocates money Jewish Federations’ National Young each year. The JDC has been sending Leadership Cabinet, Hoffer has gone on rabbis and community organizers to five study missions around the world, Supported in part by Cuba — along with food, medicine, and she wanted to share that experience school supplies and other material goods with others. — since 1992. “I’ve always been touched very deeply

6 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES to see the Federation’s work in these computer and a wheelchair to the different communities where otherwise community as part of the mission. the landscape of the community and the While the donations were appreciated, life of the people that were affected would “the biggest thing that we were able to sign up now! not be the same without our dollars,” bring was the feeling of acceptance by Hoffer said. other Jewish people in other parts of the The 21 donors visited three synagogues world,” Greenberg said. “They’re very in Havana: El Patronato, Centro Sefaradi isolated in Havana, and they feel excluded and Adath Israel. Members of the Havana from that global Jewish community.” community attend events and services at In addition to meeting the Cuban all three. Jewish community, the visitors toured “It’s not siloed the way it is in America, a cigar factory, tasted rum and visited where Jewish people are members of a con- museums and shops. They also visited gregation, and that’s where they go, that’s the Cementerio de la Union Hebrea where they stay,” Greenberg said. “There, Chevet Ahim, a Sephardic cemetery it’s such a small number of Jews that where a Holocaust memorial was August 31 - September 15, 2020 Jewish Heritage Tour: Central Europe with ASU faculty and staff

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The Federation group outside the Patronato Synagogue with suitcases full of donations for the community. Prague Wenceslas Square | Josefov Jewish Quarter | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER PHOENIX Theresienstadt even though there are three synagogues, dedicated in March 1947. Berlin Berlin Jewish Museum | Neue Synagogue everybody goes to all of them.” “It was an extremely successful trip,” Museum | Wannsee Villa | restored Rykestrasse The mission group attended Shabbat Hoffer said. “Everyone was really just Synagogue services and Shabbat dinner at El moved with the unity of this community, Patronato, where young adults and the strength of this community, and for us teenagers from the community led ser- to see our dollars at work was an honor.” guided sightseeing • escorted tours vices. Saturday evening, they performed The group also came back with a new lectures by ASU Faculty • 5 star hotels Havdalah with the Jewish community and understanding of the needs of the Cuban attended an Israeli dance performance. Jewish community. private transportation • estimated cost: €5700 “When we were at Friday night ser- “We came back as advocates for these vices, singing the prayers we sing here at people, for this community,” Greenberg Temple Chai, doing Havdalah like we do said. “We want to just get the word out jewishstudies.asu.edu/europe on Saturday, it just shows that we’re one to as many people as possible that this big community,” Weiss said. community exists, they’re there, they for more information and to reserve your spot The group also delivered clothing, need love. And they deserve it, they’re toys, 100 lbs. of medicine, a projector, a part of our people.” JN contact Lisa Kaplan at (480) 965-8094

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LOCAL Yeshiva High School of Arizona marks 10 years ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER Intensive Summer Program at en years ago, there were no day Jewish high school, or staying in Arizona Arizona State University’s Tschools beyond a junior high for boys and sending her son to a boarding school in the Phoenix area. after eighth grade. Critical Languages Institute “It was a revolving door in Phoenix,” “We thought, okay, what’s the third said Robin Meyerson, whose son gradu- option?” Meyerson said. “The third First-Year Course in Tempe, AZ ated from Yeshiva High School of Arizona option is that we stay in Arizona and May 26-July 10 in June. “For many, many years, families build a school.” just left in fourth or fifth or sixth grade.” Since her son attended the school, $1500 Program Fee Rabbi Gavriel Goetz and Rabbi Yossie Meyerson is thrilled with the school they ASU Tuition Waived Semel founded Yeshiva High School to fill built for him and other boys like him. 8 Semester Credits the gap in 2010. The school offers secular “The quality of education is superb and classes, including math, English, music the quality of the interaction between Scholarships Available and computer programming alongside the students and the teachers is amaz- Open to Everyone Ages 16+ classes in the Torah and Talmud. ing. They become part of your family,” On Wednesday, Jan. 8, the school will Meyerson said. Scholarship Deadline: January 20, 2020 celebrate its 10th Anniversary Dinner at David and Laurie Segal will receive Chateau Luxe. the Torah Visionary Award. David “has Website: cli.asu.edu “Without it, the community wouldn’t helped out from the beginning with his The Critical Languages Institute is a program of: be what it is right now,” said Dr. Mark passion and his commitment to wanting Gotfried, a board member of Yeshiva to have a Yeshiva in our community,” High School for the last three years. Goetz said. “He actually involves himself “It’s given a lot of legitimacy to different with the kids and he gives guidance to Jewish institutions all over Phoenix, and myself and shares his experiences with MyLegalEdge I think Phoenix is becoming known as a Yeshiva.” place where all aspects of Jewish life can Mark and Tami Einhorn will receive Wishes You and Your Family be celebrated.” the Hakoras Hatov Award for their years a Happy and Healthy The anniversary reception will start of work at the school. Tami Einhorn has at 6 p.m. The reception will feature worked at the yeshiva since it opened in h a n u k k a h guest speaker Rabbi Boruch Neuberger 2010, and her husband, Mark, volun- of Yeshivas Ner Yisroel, Baltimore, teered to teach computer programming Maryland, and four couples will be hon- at the school for years. ored for their involvement with Yeshiva David and Julia Almoslino, who Goetz High School and in the Jewish commu- says were involved in the school before it nity as a whole. even began, will receive the Community Charlie and Robin Meyerson will Service Award. The Almoslinos ensure receive the Ahavas Torah V’Chesed that breakfast is available for the students Award. Robin Meyerson was on the board every day. of the Jewish Tuition Organization in While the school holds a celebration of 2010 and convinced the JTO to approve learning each year, the 10th Anniversary a proposal from the yeshiva, which still Dinner will be a special event. The last receives scholarship money from the major occasion the school celebrated was organization. the first graduating class in 2014. “We’re very honored by the award, Today, the school has grown to teach There are times when you need a little help finding the right legal form for your situation. At MyLegalEdge, we because it’s a labor of love to give all those 22 students, and moved into a newly offer quality legal forms to give you the helping hand you need for your business and personal needs. hours of volunteer time to the things that renovated facility earlier this year. In are important to you,” she said. “I love addition to the high school program, the Our legal form selections include: estate planning, contracts, real estate forms, and many more. Visit our our Jewish community, and I thank God school also offers learning opportunities website at www.mylegaledge.com or email us at that he gave me the skill set and the time for adults and younger children. staff@mylegaledge.com. and the energy and the resources to be “There’s a lot of excitement, and it’s not able to give to my community.” just the boys that are here,” Gotfried said. MyLegalEdge She recalled planning for her son’s “There’s people of all ages that come in We Make Finding The Right Legal Form Simple www.jewishfreeloan.org www.MyLegalEdge.com | 1-877-651-2822 education and seeing only two options: to the study, to use this space and further (602) 230-7983 Moving the family to another state with a their goals in Jewish education.” JN

8 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

BILL LOCAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 help see this bill get passed,” he said. of County School Superintendents or the Surveys show that awareness of the Arizona School Boards Association. Holocaust is declining in the United States. “No one’s told me that they oppose it, but Arizona State student leaders A study commissioned by the Conference on generally those groups oppose anything that Jewish Material Claims Against Germany in could be seen as a mandate or an imposition,” support Jewish peers after February 2018 found that 22% of millennials Beller said. — defined in the study as anyone ages 18 to And if it reaches a vote? 34 — haven’t heard or weren’t sure if they’d “We don’t anticipate that there will be much anti-Semitic incidents JNS.ORG heard of the Holocaust, compared with 11% opposition once it gets to the floor,” Beller of all U.S. adults. And 31% of all U.S. adults said. “I don’t think anybody wants to be seen Although a vote was delayed until the and 41% of millennials also believed that the as opposed to Holocaust education.” tudent leaders at Arizona State next student government meeting, 60 number of Jews killed in the Holocaust was So far, Arizona Teaching the Holocaust SUniversity passed a resolution on or so students from Jewish groups across two million or fewer. has raised $5,158 on Facebook and gathered Tuesday, Dec. 3, expressing sympathy for ASU attended the event to speak out “Resoundingly, people will tell you that 1,251 signatures in support of the campaign. Jewish students on campus in the after- against the proposal. it’s not a problem, that Holocaust educa- As for Hilton, he’s “100%” behind Beller math of a student government campaign About 3,600 Jewish students are tion is already there,” Beller said. “But if it’s and Kay, and is so committed to making sure to support the anti-BDS movement, a enrolled at ASU, according to the campus already being taught, then no one should legislators know the importance of Holocaust Nov. 13 protest of Israeli soldiers and Hillel. Rohr Chabad at ASU also supports have a problem ensuring that the suggestions education that’s he been meeting with law- anti-Semitic flyers appearing on campus. Jewish students and faculty. JN become shalls.” makers himself. It stated that ASU students “have In January, the bill that Beller and Kay are “I take a lot of pride in our community expressed concerns over their own safety proposing will be assigned to committees in and I’ve been involved a lot of important on campus to the administration and the House of Representatives and the Senate. things, but I look at this as being one of the police force in light of recent events, Once each committee approves the bill, it will most important contributions I can make specifically Nazi [propaganda].” be brought before state representatives and to the community and to the state,” Hilton The Nov. 19 proposal urging the col- senators for a vote. said. “This could be an enduring legacy for lege administration to divest from Israeli If there is opposition to the bill, Beller not just Jewish children, but all children, so companies it may work with came after predicts that it will come during the com- that they could be taught the lessons of the a month of anti-Israel and anti-Semitic mittee hearings from the Arizona Association Holocaust.” JN incidents on campus. Arizona State University. CREDIT: FLICKR What can you learn about senior living at our Lunch and Learn? A whole bunch. Ask questions. Take a tour. Ask more questions. Try the food. Ask even more questions. You get the idea. It’s casual, it’s complimentary and you’re invited.

Maravilla Scottsdale’s next Lunch and Learn is Tuesday, December 17th at 11:30am. Please call 480.269.1952 to RSVP.

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JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 9 OPINION Editorials To the Editor A tikkun olam project close to home Trump’s SNAP judgment Chazak u’baruch to Lois Zeidman (may you be strong and blessed) on retiring from Cans Can — A e subscribe to the view the justice elimination of hundreds of thousands of rules, their very troubling impact fails to Tikkun Olam Project, which aided Rwandan fami- Wmust be tempered with mercy. recipients from food benefits means that temper justice with mercy. For example, lies with goats funded from her collecting cans and That holds true for decisions made by a lot of people will go hungry. the new rule takes away the right cashing them in, as well as other charity projects judges, by government and by each of As described by Mazon, the Jewish of states to adjust benefits to local around the world (“Recycling program founder us. And it means looking carefully at anti-hunger group, the cuts will affect economic changes through waivers. retires,” Oct. 30, 2019). A tikkun olam project a lot the collateral impact of decisions that the most vulnerable American com- And the new rules ignore the fact closer to home is giving bottles and cans to people affect people’s lives, and taking those munities: veterans, single mothers with that, even when the job market appears going through garbage. One woman told me she consequences into account. school-aged children, those living in strong, there are many — who because was saving up to send her grandson to Boy Scout Last week, the Trump administration rural America and those living on Tribal of advanced age and insufficient educa- camp. On a very hot Phoenix day I gave a fellow issued guidelines to eliminate some Lands. “The new guidelines will deny tion, chronic physical or mental illness, who was walking through the streets, sweat pouring 700,000 people from benefits they cur- SNAP benefits after three months to or the need to be a caregiver for elderly down his back, a bag of cans. A truck driver who rently receive from the Supplemental adults without dependents who are parents or sick children — cannot meet witnessed it climbed down from his cab and gave Nutrition Assistance Program. There unable to secure employment. The rule the work new requirements but still the fellow his empty Pepsi cans. I hope the driver are elements of the administration’s impacts not only single adults but also deserve support from a just and caring continued to give his empties away. These small decision and its explanation that appear defines those without dependents as any society. act show that someone cares. I usually speak with reasonable. But since the move ignores parent with children over the age of 6,” We join with those who have expressed the collectors and find out a bit about their lives. the dramatic consequences of the cut- according to Mazon. concern about this decision, and its Everybody can spread a little kindness with their old backs on the most vulnerable within our Provisions of the new rule are slated apparent tone deafness to the needs and cans and bottles. The prices may have gone down society, we think it is a mistake. to take effect on April 1, 2020. The challenges of vulnerable, low-income on what they get for these recyclables due to the SNAP is what used to be called “food administration says the changes will save Americans, how they cope with the trade war with China, but we can still give and it stamps.” Over time, the food stamps the country billions of dollars, that it realities of employment, poverty, life doesn’t cost you a cent. program has proven to be the least costly, will encourage recipients slated to lose and health demands, and the continuing Hershl Weberman | Phoenix, Arizona most direct way to help Americans fac- benefits to find a job, and will replace human need for food and sustenance. ing poverty and hunger. Any reduction a feeling of entitlement with one of We urge the administration to show in food benefits necessarily means that dignity in paying their own way. While more compassion, and to temper justice Flawed thinking more people will go hungry. And the we can agree with the theory of the new with mercy. JN Your editorial (“Voices of Division, Voices of Unity,” Nov. 27, 2019) appears to claim that peace can only come about through a “two-state solution.” It is flawed thinking to believe that Jewish towns The Shabbat bus has left the station anywhere are preventing peace. In light of the hun- srael’s secular founders believed they The new service created a network of doing it like thieves in the night.” dreds of rockets fired at Israeli civilian targets from Iwere making the state more inclusive public transit vans that enabled users to There are passionate, compelling argu- Gaza in November, there is no reason to believe when they ceded authority over religious crisscross the metropolitan Tel Aviv area ments on both sides of this issue. On the creation of a Palestinian state where the settle- observance issues to the new state’s small and beyond. balance, while we respect the rights of ments now are would result in peace of any kind. Orthodox community. As the country’s According to reports, some 10,000 religious residents to observe the Shabbat Islamic Jihad’s November attacks offered hundreds haredi population has grown, however, Israelis rode the free public transport that fully in accordance with their beliefs, we of vivid reasons of why a Palestinian state must not and its control over religious rules in the first weekend, largely skirting Orthodox also respect the rights of nonobservant be created. state have tightened, Israel’s religious neighborhoods. In response to the clear residents to live their lives free of com- For promoters of Israeli territorial concessions, establishment appears to have become demand, the city started using full-size pelled religious restraint. That doesn’t the withdrawal/disengagement from Gaza was more rigid, with no interest in compro- buses that were run more frequently. For mean that any religious practices of those supposed to set the precedent they hoped would mise. This has prompted an unsurprising many, it was about time. For others, it who observe should be compromised. soon be repeated in Judea and Samaria (West Bank). pushback from the majority less observant was a symptom of the abandonment of But it does mean that those who don’t Instead, Gaza has become the most graphic illustra- and non-observant segment of Israel’s the rule of Jewish law and a violation of want to observe shouldn’t be required tion of why relinquishing Judea and Samaria to the population. And that reality has led us and founding principles. to do so, as we see no strengthening perennially hostile and extremely corrupt Palestinian others to urge consideration of a separa- More likely, the move is a reaction to of Israel’s Jewish character through the Authority is a flat-out dangerous idea. tion of religion and state in Israel, or at the imposed Shabbat isolation of non- imposition of religious observance. Imagine how the rocket attacks against Israel least a more tolerant, pluralistic approach. observant Jewish residents who need Tiberias already has a free Shabbat in the wake of the Baha al-Ata killing would have There are always workarounds to the public transportation to get around, and bus line, and Ramat Gan and Ganei looked if the terrorist armies had instead been West status quo. In Israel, those workarounds a symptom of the vacuum left by Israel’s Tikva near Tel Aviv have announced Bank Palestinian Arabs, operating from inside a are called “facts on the ground.” On a moribund government after two incon- plans of their own. Each new fact on Palestinian state in the West Bank. Those November Shabbat last month, the Tel Aviv munici- clusive elections and a third one on the the ground challenges the status quo. rockets would be in easy range of the Western pal authority created precisely such facts horizon. “For many months now, there is Rather than becoming a religious-secular Wall, the Knesset and passenger jets landing at Ben when it launched a small Shabbat public no central government that can do some- battleground, we hope that the issue Gurion Airport. transportation service, designed to cir- thing,” said Shuki Friedman, of the Israel will be an opportunity for engage- Moshe Phillips, National Director cumvent the status quo prohibition of Democracy Institute. “The [municipality] ment, understanding and reasonable Herut North America (U.S. Division) public transportation on the Sabbath. may be violating the Sabbath but they are compromise. JN The Jabotinsky Movement

10 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM OPINION Commentary Let 2020 be the year of respect, kindness and courage CARLOS GALINDO-ELVIRA

he end of December is fast Nearly 60% of religious hate crimes were The spread of anti-Semitism is not with 51 schools across the state touching Tapproaching, and with it comes the thrill motivated by anti-Semitism. Since 1991, something seen in far-away places. It’s hap- the lives of over 50,000 students. of a new year starting. For some people this Jews have been the most common victims pening here in Arizona. It’s happening in Students participating with NPFH sign brings concerns for what may be: an increase of religiously motivated hate crimes in the the Greater Phoenix area. Time after time a Resolution of Respect at the start of in hate incidents and/or crimes and in hate United States. in 2019, we have witnessed the posting the school year. Within that resolution, speech both online and on the streets. The FBI also reported that anti-Hispanic of flyers or engraving of swastikas in both students pledge to seek understanding; Since the start of 2019, ADL Arizona crimes went up 14% — an increase for the public and private spaces. We cannot accept speak out against prejudice and discrimina- has called out anti-Semitic and hateful inci- third consecutive year. normalization of this hate symbol here or tion; support those who are the targets of dents from Flagstaff to Tucson 33 times by What should be the immediate response anywhere. hate; promote respect; not be an innocent standing up for Jewish, African American, in the face of these statistics? Tablet Magazine author Carly Pildis bystander when it comes to opposing hate; LGBTQ, Latino and Muslim communities. wrote what needs to be said every day: and recognize individual dignity and pro- • Industry leaders and elected We’ve expressed our reaction as “I believe we must stand up and fight mote intergroup harmony. officials need to take concrete action disturbed, offended, appalled, concerned, anti-Semitism. It is our patriotic duty, for From kindergarten to high school, stu- to stop extremism from spreading shocked, horrified, troubled and disap- anti-Semitism is a threat to all Americans.” dents declare their school is No Place for and harming society. pointed. Never have we been discouraged This is a time to preserve and strengthen Hate. • This threat needs to be called out by its as we’ve also seen the goodwill of many who our democracy — ensuring the protection In anticipation of 2020, wouldn’t it be name by the White House. stand up against hate and the rapid response of the First Amendment and interests of better for all of us to make resolutions • Social media platforms need to enforce by law enforcement. vulnerable communities. This, too, is our mirroring the ones made by these young their terms of service and take down In November, the FBI released 2018 data patriotic duty. people? We can, for the 365 days of the hate speech. on hate crimes. One way ADL seeks to make an impact on new year, respect one another’s opinion, act • All faith, educational and nonprofit orga- There were 7,120 hate crimes reported Arizona communities is through ADL’s No kindly to everyone and demonstrate courage nizations need to step forward and stand in 2018 — that’s 20 hate crimes per day. Place for Hate initiative. It provides schools in the face of adversity. together. The most numerous hate crimes were race- and communities with an organizing frame- Let 2020 be the year of respect, based. Nearly 50% were directed against This is a time for mobilization. This is a work for combating bias, bullying and kindness and courage. JN African Americans. time for courage. In 2018, we witnessed a hatred, leading to long-term solutions for There was a 42% increase in hate 23% increase of anti-Semitic vandalism and creating and maintaining a positive school Carlos Galindo-Elvira is the regional director for crimes against transgender people. harassment incidents in Arizona. climate. Currently, ADL Arizona partners ADL Arizona. Dangerous fee hikes for immigrants in the works

CATHRYN MILLER-WILSON by 83% and establish new fees for asylum Ultimately, this administration is work and has no family to support him, he applications. This latter would make the prioritizing enforcement over integration relies on Supplemental Security Income to ulnerable immigrant communities are U.S. one of only four countries in the in the same way that our government has pay his rent. Vunder attack in the United States. world that would charge people to seek prioritized incarceration over education for However, due to a rule which requires The Trump administration has proposed asylum — people who have fled with lit- citizens. It is another example of a wrong- legal permanent residents to naturalize policies that will slap a series of fees on erally nothing but what they could carry. headed policy that creates more problems within seven years of arrival in order to immigrants, and then will use the rev- These changes will make it nearly impos- than it solves. The policy is also a blatant continue accessing SSI benefits, his SSI enue generated from these fees to fund sible for low-income immigrants to seek attempt to wrest power from minorities was recently cut off and he will need to the detainment and deportation system asylum or adjust their status to the next by affirmatively preventing low-income naturalize in order to regain his primary currently striking fear in communities of level for which they are eligible. immigrants from naturalizing and being source of income. While under the current immigrants across the country. In addition, in what is arguably an able to vote. These fee increases and the policy he would receive a fee waiver to Immigrant populations throughout unconstitutional end run around Congress, proposed elimination of fee waivers have cover the costs of applying for citizenship, the United States are being dealt a harsh the increased revenue generated through real consequences for immigrants like the the proposed rule change would preclude blow by United States Citizenship and these changes will be transferred to clients our team serves every day. him from receiving the waiver and require Immigration Services (USCIS) through Immigration and Customs Enforcement. For instance, one of the extremely he pay $1,170, almost two full months of a regressive tax on immigrants, refugees, Traditionally, USCIS processing fees are vulnerable Ethiopian asylees we serve SSI payments. Due to his low income and and asylees. The proposed fee schedule — used to fund the processing of applications arrived in the United States after fleeing the health issues, he risks homelessness. This which was published and opened to public filed. ICE’s budget, however, is proscribed Ethiopian civil war. He was granted asylum policy is taking a stable member of our comment on Nov. 14, 2019 — would exor- by Congress. Congress did not authorize in 2011, and received his green card four community and creating an unstable, crisis bitantly raise required fees that immigrants the amount of money that the president years later. After arriving in the U.S., he situation. How is that helpful to anyone? must submit to the U.S. government to file requested, so these rules defy Congress’ was diagnosed with diabetes and placed on The Trump administration claims that for various forms of immigration relief. It setting of fiscal priorities by extracting dialysis due to the resulting kidney prob- fees must increase by a weighted average would eliminate fee waivers for natural- more monies for ICE than was agreed to lems and other medical issues stemming of 21% in order to balance USCIS’ books. ization purposes, raise naturalization fees by Congress. from his diabetes. Because he is unable to SEE MILLER-WILSON, PAGE 12

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 11 RELIGIOUS LIFE

TORAH STUDY SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING DEC. 13 - 5:03 P.M. Diplomacy, self-defense and prayer DEC. 20 - 5:06 P.M. PARSHAT his native land and anticipates a hostile that happen. The security measures and VAYISHLACH SHABBAT ENDS welcome from Esau, whose decades-long procedures that we encounter at airports, DEC. 14 - 6:02 P.M. enmity has not diminished. His scouts events and public buildings are often an GENESIS 32:4-36:43 report the Esau is approaching with an inconvenience, but their ubiquity shows DEC. 21 - 6:05 P.M. army of 300 strong. Jacob’s threefold that we consider them a necessary if RABBI YISROEL reaction to this threat can serve as a unfortunate part of life. Many congrega- ISAACS guide to structure our response to the tions have organized members into teams Find area congregations at jewishaz.com, where you can also find our 2020 Community Directory. he last year contemporary Esaus that we encounter. that oversee security sometimes with the Thas sadly Jacob first tried the diplomatic help of an off-duty police officer. There introduced approach. After his first attempt failed, are Orthodox rabbis who allow, when we take to protect ourselves and our fami- tragedies into synagogues that North he persisted. He devised an elaborate necessary, some Shabbat restrictions to be lies are sufficient to protect us without American Jews have not had to suffer array of gifts sent with three groups of put aside in ways that enable congregants G-d’s help is not new: “If G-d will not before. Like the countless other acts of representatives. Each group would deliver to ensure shul security. build the house, they that build it labor anti-Semitism that have been perpetrated its expensive collection of livestock and Our community is fortunate to have in vain; if G-d will not guard the city, the against our people throughout history, a brief verbal message in which Jacob excellent free resources provided by watchman waketh but in vain” (Psalms these have left their unsightly scars on refers to his estranged brother in the organizations like the Federation and 127). The house needs a contractor; the Jewish psyche while we try to carry most deferential terms. Jacob’s ongoing Community Security Service. Each the city, a guard. But we must not have on with positivity and hope for a bet- diplomatic efforts suggest neutralizing community and congregation must assess the hubris to think we can do it without ter future. This week’s Torah portion the threat of anti-Semitism before it its own threat level and security needs G-d’s help. Increased synagogue involve- of Vayishlach contains some timeless escalates via education, bridge building but whatever they may be, Jacob’s ment, synagogue attendance and tefillah perspectives that can help us consider a and public relations. example shows us that ignoring the (prayer) can only help our cause. constructive reaction to these unfortunate Jacob also prepared in case of attack. issue is irresponsible. May our forefather Jacob’s example of events. He split the camp into two independent Aside from his diplomatic and defensive diplomacy, self-defense and prayer help Jacob had become a refugee of the groups so if one were attacked the other measures, Jacob deployed a third parallel us maintain our safety so we may carry land of Canaan and his parents’ home could escape. Later, he personally led tactic with a spiritual dimension: prayer. on and expand upon our great Jewish after he received his father’s blessings the approach in front of his family so he “And Jacob said, ‘O G-d of my father legacy. JN that were originally intended for his twin would be able to defend them against an Abraham … deliver me from the hand of brother, Esau. Esau became enraged attack. Jacob’s trust in G-d did not pre- my brother, from the hand of Esau, for I Rabbi Yisroel Isaacs is director of the Greater and plotted to murder him, so Jacob vent him from taking the threat seriously. am afraid of him, lest he come and strike Phoenix Vaad Hakashruth, rabbi at Beth Joseph fled for his life. Thirty-four years later, If we want our synagogues and other me [and strike] a mother with children’” Congregation and director of the Jewish Jacob returns with his large family to Jewish spaces to be safe, we must make (Bereshit 32). The feeling that the steps Enrichment Center.

MILLER-WILSON of crime, or someone who obtained rule would also introduce a $50 asylum require immigrants to pay to get their CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 their legal status by cooperating with law application fee. USCIS claims the fee day in court — the application for But that is only when taking into account enforcement in the investigation of a crime would “alleviate the pressure” on the suspension of deportation or special the extra resources the president wishes committed against him or her. Crime backlog of asylum applications, thereby rule cancellation of removal (increasing to divert to ICE rather than paying for victims who seek to bring over qualifying leaving USCIS employees more time and by 216%) and the request for a hearing on processing costs. This is a blatantly politi- family members have to pay 559% more, resources to perform other immigration a decision in naturalization proceedings cal strategy to prevent immigrants from $1,515, to ask for permission to get the duties. However, many people fleeing (increasing by 151%). In other words, accessing rights awarded with citizenship. family support that they may desperately extreme situations in their home coun- if an immigrant feels they had an unfair By raising naturalization fees by 83%, but need in the wake of a crime. tries and seeking asylum in the United hearing, they would have to pay an exor- green card renewal fees by only 25%, the Imagine being trafficked at a young age States do not have $50 to spare. USCIS bitant sum to appeal. If these proposed administration is encouraging legal perma- — 14 or 15, drugged and prostituted by acknowledges this fee is meant to cut back hikes go into effect, low-income immi- nent residents to remain at their current a violent American criminal for months on asylum claims, further evidence of the grants who don’t have the means to pay immigration status indefinitely. This would or even years, escaping, cooperating with administration’s flouting of international for a hearing or for their deportation to prevent them from accessing federal aid police to bring that criminal to justice and law which requires “non-discrimination, be suspended will be disenfranchised and for college, petitioning for relatives abroad then, in an attempt to start your life over as non-penalization and non-refoulement” potentially deported because they are and, conveniently, voting against President an adult, seeking to bring a beloved family of those seeking asylum. low-income. Trump in the next election. It will also member here to help you heal and being But this is exactly what this proposed This proposed fee hike could have deadly create a permanent class of residents who told that all that you suffered to bring rule does — it discriminates against low- consequences. Don’t let the fear win. The are disenfranchised, rendering integration the criminal to justice was not sufficient. income asylum seekers, it penalizes them public has until Dec. 30 to submit com- efforts impossible. Alone and traumatized with little skills and for being low-income and ultimately it ments about the proposed rule change. It is glaringly obvious that the proposed disrupted education, you have to find will result in their refoulement or depor- All are encouraged to submit a unique fees are meant to disenfranchise thousands more than $1,500 before bringing over tation to their countries of origin if they comment via the USCIS website. JN of immigrants in a classist and racist policy any adult who cares about you to help are unable to pay the fee to get the status disguised as a budget. you put your life back together. that allows them to remain. Cathryn Miller-Wilson is the executive director of The largest fee increase is for victims As indicated above, the proposed Two important proposed fee hikes also HIAS-PA.

12 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION

CHANUKAH Lone soldier Chanukah campaign MICHAEL COHEN

ore than 700 letters and pictures for lone Msoldiers serving in the Israel Defense Forces will make their way to Israel this month as part of the East Valley JCC’s Lone Soldier Project Hanukkah Greeting Letter Campaign 2019. Volunteers gave presentations at seven synagogue religious schools, two day schools, one preschool and two summer camps between Aug. 15 and Nov. 24 to speak to over Two lone soldiers holding their letters and wearing their new 550 students about lone soldiers. The volunteers also spoke to senior groups, who knitted hats. The first package was last sent month to the Lone wrote cards to the soldiers. Dania Chait of Temple Beth Sholom of Soldier Center in Israel. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE EAST VALLEY JCC the East Valley, whose sister was a lone soldier, raised funds for lone soldier centers and collected warm socks and T-shirts for the soldiers for her bat mitzvah project. One teen group, from Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple in New Brunswick, New Jersey, sent in a package of letters to the EVJCC. Lone soldiers are young adults from around the world who vol- unteer to serve in the IDF and have no family in Israel. About 7,000 lone soldiers currently serve in the IDF, with about 55% coming from 61 countries, including the United States. Since holidays are often a difficult time to be away from family, the Hanukkah Greeting Letter Campaign is designed to help brighten up the soldiers’ holiday. The letters were sent to three lone soldier centers in Israel and will be distributed to soldiers around the country during Hanukkah. Here are examples of some of the letters that were written to the soldiers. JN Dr. Michael Cohen is the coordinator for the East Valley JCC Lone Soldier Project. For more information, email [email protected].

Holidays for everyone: Make your home inclusive SHARON LANDAY have a way for guests to enter your home — game-changer when food is served. same considerations should be given to guests a ramp if necessary — and access to the room(s) Gifting: If you are planning a gift exchange with a visual impairment, hearing impairment ny time of year is the right time to ensure in which you will be entertaining. Have a quiet that includes children, or if you are buying gifts or other physical disabilities. When it comes to Aall guests are comfortable in your home. space — a space free from scent, with low for a child, consider their interests and abilities. intellectual disabilities, knowing what to buy I’m not suggesting you buy a new memory lighting — should a guest need a break. While we often use age as a measure for what to can be difficult. Enlist the help of parent(s), foam, pillowtop mattress, but rather look at Dietary: Are you offering your guests purchase, chronological age and developmen- a caregiver, friend or other trusted source. your space and your offerings, and do your snacks? A meal? Have you inquired about tal age are not always equal. You might have There are great gift guides available, includ- best to provide a welcoming environment for food allergies? a teenage guest who enjoys animated shows ing this year’s edition from Ellen Seidman of all of your guests. As we have learned over the last many years, from PBS. Maybe that young guest still loves the blog Love That Max. Her guide is full of Environment: Is there a barrier at your there are people whose lives can be threatened “Dora the Explorer.” In this example, a gift wonderful suggestions and can be found at front door that would prevent a wheelchair by mere exposure. Making sure you have card to iTunes would probably not excite the lovethatmax.com/2019/11/best-gifts-kids- — manual or power — from entering your a safe food space will show you care about recipient, but a coloring book of Dora might be teens-disabilities-2019.html. home? Are you planning to play music? Will your guests. Perhaps you have a guest with amazing. Alternatively, you might have a young Doing these things will cause your guests to it be loud? Will it stream through the house? food aversions, sensitivities or other sensory guest who is an avid fan of science and num- feel welcome and touched by your thoughtful- How about scents? Are you burning candles? issues. Understand if a guest brings his or her bers. Sudoku? “Big Book of Experiments ?” As ness. The holidays are a time for celebration, Wax melts? Do you have scented pine cones? own food and don’t be offended. If a parent you would with anyone, consider their interests but remember, not everyone can be happy And what about lighting? Do you have flashing has brought food for a child, be thankful when selecting a gift. If you have a guest that unless they’re in the right environment. JN lights? Bright lights? the child will have what he or she wants. has a physical disability, consider what he or she All of these elements make for a fantastic Children with sensory issues will often refuse can do before purchasing a gift. If your guest Sharon Landay is a student support specialist at Gesher Disability Resources, the interim religious holiday setting, but these same features might to eat food they are unfamiliar with. The is challenged in the area of fine motor skills, a school director at Congregation Or Tzion and the be overwhelming to some guests. Confirm you forethought of the parent is likely to be a calligraphy set would not be appropriate. These proud mother of Sophia and Samantha.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 13 Celebrate Chanukah early SPECIAL SECTION with Congregation Kehillah CHANUKAH Friday, December 20th: 6:00pm Latkes & light Hors d’oeuvre 6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat followed by an Oneg

Saturday, December 21st: Break free from the blues this holiday season 10:00am Sippy Cup Shabbat/ KATHY ROOD Consider only spending cash or giving a active. And while the average person may Frozen Theme/Toddler aged children homemade present this year. only gain about a pound during the holidays, he holidays are a time to enjoy family, gift RSVP to Renee by December 18th this pound is one that most people never giving, parties and great food. However, • Take people at face value. With the holi- [email protected] T days comes an influx of family members and lose — and it adds up! In addition, exercise for some, the holiday season is far from being is great for mental health. MAKE IT A REALITY IN 2020! the most wonderful time of the year. Coined friends that you may only see once a year. Congregation Kehillah Israel Trip! the “holiday blues,” this condition should not Try to manage your expectations of people • Take up a hobby. Combat loneliness and Travel dates are Oct 19 – Nov 2, 2020 be taken lightly. that often have a negative effect on you. isolation this winter by picking up a winter According to the National Alliance on Limit your time with them, and if possible, hobby, joining a group or volunteering with Mental Illness, many people experience vary- surround yourself with people who make a local nonprofit. Plus, there’s no better way ing levels of anxiety or depression during the you happy. to make new friends! holiday season, especially those who already • Let it go. Don’t try to get everything done • Ask for help. If you know that you typically 5858 E Dynamite Blvd, Cave Creek have a pre-existing mental health condition. in one day. Set realistic goals. Make a list and have a tough time during the holidays, ask 602-369-7667 • [email protected] www.congregationkehillah.org Whether it’s the extra stresses and unrealistic try to check off two to three items every friends and family members to check in on expectations that accompany the season or the day. Delegate tasks when appropriate. It’s you from time to time. If you feel the need feelings of loneliness and sadness, the holiday perfectly okay to task others with sharing for more formal support, talking with a blues can be hard to shake. some of the holiday responsibilities. mental health professional can help. Talking Arizona has a population of approxi- • Get adequate sleep. A good night’s sleep about your struggles tends to put them in mately 6.7 million people. According to the is incredibly important to your physical and perspective. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services mental health. In fact, it’s just as important • Make a mental health crisis plan. For those Administration, close to 4.6% of adults live with as eating healthy and exercising. who have a mental health condition, be sure a serious mental health condition. However, to continue your therapy sessions. Don’t Wishing you and only 40.3% of adults with mental illness in • Don’t overindulge. There are countless skip one just because things are busy. And Arizona receive any form of treatment. opportunities to overindulge in rich food yours a joyous and if you’re taking prescription medications, Managing stress, and feelings of anxiety and alcoholic beverages during the holiday beware of the side effects of mixing your light fi lled Hanukah and depression, can be even more difficult season. Overindulging can lead to feelings medications with alcohol. JN than usual. Here are some practical tips that of guilt or shame, deflating your self-esteem. Enjoy your holiday season by practicing may help: Kathy Rood is the program manager of Jewish indulgence in moderation. • Avoid excessive spending. Plan ahead and Family & Children’s Service. For more information • . When you plan your holiday on services available through Jewish Family & set a budget for your holiday gift giving. Keep active Children’s Service, contact Kathy at 602-452- Stick to your budget and be responsible. schedule, allow yourself opportunities to be 4627 or [email protected]. My Chanukah miracle PAUL ROCKOWER who really believes she doesn’t belong to any I was literally in shock, as we chatted. I told community at all invariably kills herself, either them that they were the greatest Chanukah spent the morning wandering down by the by killing her body or by giving up her identity present could I receive today; they were liter- Icrashing surf along the Moroccan coast and and going mad.” ally my Chanukah miracle. They sang “Ma’oz through the medina alleyways of Rabat, feed- As I was finishing up the chapter, I heard a Tsur” and it was so unexpected that my heart ing the stray cats. sound that sent shivers down my back. thumped with emotion. After some morning work, I retired to sip It was Hebrew. As we walked out into the parking lot, they sweet mint tea and study French in the tea A large tour group of Israelis. In Morocco. gave me a big hug and wished me well. A house in the sturdy ochre kasbah. Filigree- Something unheard of 15 years ago when I gentleman said to me about how all the Jews covered metal doors guarded the Moorish arch studied in Rabat, when the second intifada all over the world are connected. I smiled and doors and windows of the whitewashed riad to smoldered. replied, “kol ha’olam kulo gesher tsar ma’od,” my eastern vantage. I could hear the Sephardi-accented Hebrew meaning “the whole world is a narrow bridge.” com Be heard. I finished my studies, and as the tourists piled of morocayim, and I was in shock. I closed my I ducked back into the medina, beaming into the tea house, I escaped to the gardens Kindle and began walking to the gates of the with joy and tears running down my face. I Email your to sit under jasmine and read “Speaker for the walled fort. The group was also leaving, and as I put my BluBlockers on to hide the streaking letters to Dead” by Orson Scott Card (of Ender fame): passed them, I said softly, “Happy Chanukah.” tears and I giggled to myself down the narrow lanes. It is such a curious thing to laugh and cry the editor. “Impossible. Every person is defined by the At first, the woman closest to me didn’t at the same time. It is a moment that comes communities she belongs to and the ones she understand. Ech? Chanukah? Huh? rushing out, like a confluence of two rivers. doesn’t belong to. I am this and this and this, I said it a few more times, then added a bit Such a curious thing, indeed. JN but definitely not that and that. All your defi- of phlegm: “Chanukah sameach!” nitions are negative. I could make an infinite Ah! The group immediately understood.

letters@jewishaz. Paul Rockower is the executive director of the Jewish list of the things you are not. But a person And we began chatting in Hebrew. Community Relations Council of Greater Phoenix.

14 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION How to make your $800 Donation Cost You $0 CHANUKAH And Help End Homelessness for Arizonans Chanukah memories $800 - $800 = $0 You donate $800 to the Your state taxes are Human Services Campus reduced by up to an Net cost to you and healthy latkes at www.hsc-az.org $800 tax credit ELI FOLLICK t’s the time of the year to celebrate the Peel eggplant and cut into small cubes. Place Ifestive holiday of Chanukah. My memories eggplant in a large pot and cover with water, *This is an example. Consult go back to my youngest years, maybe when bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes your financial advisor about I was 5 to 6 years old. And what I remember until tender. Drain well in a colander and place your specific situation. never left my mind or heart. on paper towels to dry. The excitement began with us gather- Puree cooked eggplant and measure puree ing around while Dad took down the big so you know how much flour to use. Chanukah box from the highest shelf in the Combine all ingredients. Heat oil in frying closet. He would open the box and start pan until very hot and drop mixture using ¼ parceling out the house decorations. It was cup measure. Cook about 3 to 4 minutes on us kids' job to decide where everything each side until crisp and brown. Serve hot. went and begin the pasting and hanging. We would see where more was needed and BAKED VEGETABLE LATKES we’d all get to work cutting and coloring. Yield: 40 patties. Serves 6-8 As busy as we were, we couldn’t ignore 1 ½-2 cups red or yellow or both peppers the aroma from the kitchen. We’d see ½ pound cleaned and trimmed raw Momma and Bubby busy mixing shredded spinach, chopped (2 cups) potatoes with egg and matzo meal and fry- 1 pound potatoes boiled, mashed ing latkes. It took two pans going steadily Freshly ground pepper to make enough for all of us. We would Vegetable oil each get to taste one or two to make sure 2 tablespoons olive oil everything was perfect. 1 ½ cups grated carrots When the dreidels came out, we knew 6 tablespoons grated raw onion the games would begin. After, of course, a 3 eggs lightly beaten fair distribution of foil-wrapped chocolate GIVE A 1 ½ teaspoons salt Your YEAR-END DONATION coins. This was serious stuff — you didn’t 1 cup matzo meal MEMORY will make a difference… want to lose all your coins. Somehow, that ALL YEAR LONG. never happened. Mince and saute peppers in olive oil until soft Do you have something that belonged Lighting the candles, and the songs, it (about 15 to 20 minutes). to someone you love sitting in a drawer. A ring that a daughter love to try on? seemed like an eight-day long party. Add all the remaining ingredients except A Fathers wedding band? Your support will help provide vegetable oil and let the mixture stand for 30 Each night, there were wrapped presents. A Grandfathers watch? interest-free loans for: And for a special surprise, sometimes there minutes or overnight (refrigerated). were jelly-filled donuts. We all knew about When ready to cook, bring to room Bring your memory in and let Burland’s · Adoption/IVF temperature. Make patties. Place on lightly the association of using oil-fried foods and clean it up and put it in a box for you. · Crisis Situations Medical/Dental Needs the miracle of Chanukah when the single greased baking sheet and place in preheated It’s a treasure you can give that will always bottle of oil, supposed to last one day, lasted 250-degree oven for about 10 minutes, turn put a smile on the face of a loved one. · Small Business Development eight days until new oil could be squeezed and bake another 10 minutes. This recipe by · Jewish Day School/Preschool from olives. We sang all about it. Tania Bobrick. And So Much More Now, nearly seven decades later, I remem- Anytime you can remove or reduce ber it all, but I’ve had to update a few things. high-calorie ingredients, you create a Please make your donation TODAY. Now, I celebrate with different, healthier healthier dish. Both of these recipes will options. I haven’t given up the memories, give you all the trappings of Chanukah I’ve simply added healthier choices. but won’t add to the degenerative diseases Memories are Priceless. (602) 230-7983 — diabetes, heart disease, liver problems www.jewishfreeloan.org www.jewishfreeloan.org EGGPLANT LATKES — that are responsible for 60 % of the con- (602) 230-7983 Yield: 12-14 latkes ditions that contribute to senior mortality. 3 medium eggplants Enjoy Chanukah, and remember that 4 large eggs nothing tastes as good as being thin — Making ne an ol memories fo oe 40 years. 2 tablespoons flour for each ½ cup and healthy — feels. JN 6102 N 16th St, Ste #10, Phoenix, AZ of eggplant puree Eli Follick is a recovered Type 2 diabetic and 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder a certified lifestyle trainer. He is dedicated to 602.277.7900 1 teaspoon black pepper helping people make healthier choices. This article www.burlandjewelry.com A minimal amount of oil for frying originally appeared in New Mexico Jewish Link. Tues-Fri: 10am-6pm • Sat: 10am-4pm • Sun-Mon: CLOSED

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 15 SPECIAL SECTION

CHANUKAH CHANUKAH Your child’s challenging ‘A Rugrats Chanukah’ behaviors: Tips for surviving remains a faithful adaptation and enjoying the holidays over two decades later RAUN MELMED to meet your child’s individual needs. MARISSA STERN AND RACHEL KURLAND do what a Maccababy’s gotta do!” olidays present opportunities for families • Stop activities before they become The cartoon is astonishingly accurate and Hto share traditions, activities and memories. overwhelming. tells the story of Chanukah in a way that is Though fun, things can get overwhelming. • Know and respect your child’s tolerance limits. clear and concise for kids (and to be honest, for Parents of typical children, along with those Tips for changes in routines adults, too). Scriptwriters David N. Weiss and with special needs, may find such events to be • Create a holiday or special event schedule and J. David Stem even took the liberty of using very stressful — and even avoid them. Others calendar. Chanukah-related puns, such as renaming Phil may choose to have one parent, or a caregiver, • Plan visuals and timers in advance making (of twins Phil and Lil) as Philistine. stay home to avoid exposing their children to changes predictable. Granted, they left out some of the gorier RUGRATS SCREENSHOT VIA JEWISH EXPONENT potentially challenging experiences or to avoid • Upon arrival, show your child where to take details of fighting a war, but we were surprised exposing others to their child’s challenging a break to make it familiar and comfortable or some people, nothing says the start of the in watching the episode how much of the story behaviors. before it is needed. Fholiday season better than classic movies, of Chanukah we actually forgot (sorry, Bubbe). What seems fun to some children can be • Have a scripted phrase such as “Oh look” with perhaps “It’s a Wonderful Life” taking Overall, this episode was insanely clever stressful to others. By anticipating challenges, to alert your child to changes or transitions. the honor of the most popular. for a kid’s show on Nickelodeon. We haven’t however, you might actually enjoy those times. • Be prepared — bring a survival pack includ- But for the Jewish millennials of today, laughed this hard at a Chanukah TV special Here are some tips that might help save the day: ing printed or picture schedules; high protein there’s another cult classic that gets us in the since the first time we discovered Adam snacks; extra drinks; restroom supplies like pre- Chanukah spirit: “A Rugrats Chanukah” — a Sandler’s “Hanukkah Song” — or probably Tips for surviving family gatherings special episode of the animated TV series • It’s not easy, but try taking care of yourself ferred toilet paper or wet-wipes; transitional since the first time we watched this show as objects; comfort items like a hat, blanket, Rugrats, which ran on Nickelodeon from 1991 toddlers. first. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, to 2004. exercise and nutrition. preferred electronics or favorite toys; indi- The bit where Lil suggests to Tommy — who vidualized supports such as noise-canceling For the two Jewish millennial writers of this thinks the menorah candles are for his birthday • Say no to events that don’t work for your article, now seemed like the perfect time to family. headphones, chew toys, music and books; (every night) — that “maybe you’re all growed and changes of clothing. revisit our favorite holiday flick — and it did up now and need to get a job” had us laughing • Feel comfortable scheduling a trusted caregiver not disappoint. to stay with your child for events they might • Provide supports for your child. Examples of to keep from crying because of the realness. physical supports could include preplanned The original episode aired on Dec. 4, 1996 The Yiddish phrases were flawlessly executed not tolerate. — to put that in perspective, we were just barely • Ignore comparisons, judgments and well- movement activities, quiet breaks from stimu- — “Oy gevalt!” exclaimed Tommy’s grand- lation or cues your child can use to request a 4 years old (sorry). father upon seeing that the newspaper used intentioned remarks made by people who The story goes that Tommy Pickles — the do not understand your child. Some family break. Visual supports could be picture cues, a picture of rival Shlomo instead a photo of checklists or picture schedules. lead rugrat always dressed only in a diaper, blue himself for an article about their synagogue members carry information cards about their crop top and no shoes (very practical) — is children’s conditions to give to people who • Provide a relaxation activity before and after Chanukah play. And the characters all pro- high stress activities celebrating Chanukah with his family for the nounced “Chanukah” with the exaggerated do not understand. first time, but he’s not sure what exactly the • Rehearse scripted responses to use when others • Respect your child’s tolerance for decora- “ch” of every non-Jewish friend you’ve ever tions — how they look, sound and feel. The holiday is or what it means. had trying to be sensitive and say the holiday interfere. For example, smile and say, “Thank Tommy’s Jewish mother is making potato you, but we just need some quiet time away same with activities: How noisy they can be, correctly but with much more phlegm than how many people will there be, what types pancakes in the kitchen (his cousin Angelica necessary. from people right now.” gets excited to eat pancakes for dinner, then • Family gatherings are not the time or place of activity is expected, how interesting it is to All the adult Jewish characters actually look your child or how competitive it is. is sadly disappointed to discover latkes are just like people we’ve encountered in our own to lecture or correct family members about potatoes). “The miracle is these things have autism, ADHD or any other special need. • Know when to stop. Recognize the early warn- synagogues, even the Pickles family. ing signs that indicate your child is uneasy. clogged our people’s arteries for 2,000 years, As far as we’re concerned, the Pickles are Tips for helping your child enjoy activities Have a preplanned exit strategy; rehearse yet we survive,” Tommy’s grandfather says. the Jewish family of the ’90s, illustrating the • Prepare and read stories that teach about the this with your child in advance. Be prepared Meanwhile, Tommy’s non-Jewish father tries troubles and tribulations interfaith families deal event. to leave before your child has a meltdown. to create a mobile menorah, which is as ador- with on a regular basis, but especially during • Don’t over-schedule events or activities. able as it gets for an interfaith family in the ’90s. the holidays. • Choose fun experiences that will not be Have fun in your family’s own way. Remember, They all go to synagogue (or, as Tommy As Tommy’s father gets ready to leave, he overwhelming. you know your child best. Trust your own calls it, the “synamabob”) where his Russian tells mom Didi he’ll meet her at the church, to • Select activities your child prefers. instincts and focus on having a good time. JN grandfather gets into some ruckus while acting which his father, Lou, says, “It’s a synagogue, • Rehearse and practice activities such as out the story of Chanukah and Grandma sits in Hanukkah boy!” greetings ahead of time. Raun Melmed, M.D., is director of the Melmed Center the pews knitting, as you do at shul. In all, 20 years later, it seems the miracle • Provide activities that offer a physical outlet in Scottsdale and medical director of the Southwest In the babies’ imaginations, they too act of Chanukah is that this special is every bit as for energy or aggression. Autism Research and Resource Center. He is the author out the story of Chanukah in biblical times, of a series of books addressing mindfulness in children iconic — and educational — as it was when it • Forewarn your child before the end of the including “Harriet’s Monster Diary - Awfully Anxious But complete with Tommy actually wearing first aired. JN activity. Have transition plans in mind. I Squish It,” where the titular character learns from her shoes (gladiator sandals) and playing Judah This article originally ran in the Jewish Exponent, a • Adjust the timing and pacing of activities bubbe how to manage stress. Maccabee himself: “A Maccababy’s gotta Jewish News-affiliated publication.

16 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION

CHARITABLE GIVING Consider a year-end gift to a nonprofit doing great work in your community KRISTEN MERRIFIELD

t’s the time of year when gift-giving the federal tax laws changed. Iis driven more by motivation than Heading into our advocacy efforts at obligation. the state legislature last year, the Seidman Beyond the heartwarming celebratory Research Institute at the W.P. Carey School gatherings of friends and family, it’s the of Business at Arizona State University time of year when nonprofit organiza- unofficially estimated that charitable giv- tions reach out to supporters and donors ing in Arizona could be more than $300 — current, past and new — to consider a million lower as a result of the federal and year-end gift, or investment, in agencies state changes to standard deductions. doing so much good work in communities In June, The Wall Street Journal reported large and small. that according to the annual Giving USA A year ago, the Alliance of Arizona report, “charitable donations by individu- Nonprofits led an effort — HB2757 — als dropped last year by the most since the to enact a new law in Arizona allowing financial crisis as tax-law changes and a taxpayers to continue to deduct dona- late-year stock-market dip dampened the tions to nonprofit organizations even if effects of the growing economy.”

EVEN WITH THE NEW LAW, THE NEED TO SUPPORT ARIZONA NONPROFITS — Keep the light of the AT WHATEVER LEVEL YOU’RE COMFORTABLE holiday burning bright WITH — REMAINS AS IMPORTANT AS EVER. for Jews in need here, they don’t itemize their tax returns. This The Giving USA report showed that in Israel and around legislation was needed because changes to giving by individuals in 2018 fell 3.4% federal tax laws nearly doubled the federal in inflation-adjusted dollars after four the world. standard deduction for single and married consecutive years of at least 2.4% growth. taxpayers. The Wall Street Journal also reported That federal change eliminated financial that because of the higher standard deduc- incentives to donate to nonprofits because tion, “about 16 million households were taxpayers wouldn’t need the deduction on expected to use the deduction in 2018, their federal returns. Arizona Governor down from 37 million under the prior Doug Ducey and members of the legis- law, according to the Tax Policy Center.” jewishphoenix.org/donate lature were forward thinking in voting People certainly don’t donate to HB2757 into law. nonprofits only to get a tax deduction. So, here we are, a year later, heading Most gifts are from the heart or because into the season of sharing and the only of a personal connection to a specific thing that’s really different is the date on nonprofit’s mission. the calendar. By that I mean, even with We’re hoping that, in combination with the new law, the need to support Arizona the ability to claim a deduction in Arizona, nonprofits — at whatever level you’re more individuals will consider being comfortable with — remains as important among those of us who want to continue as ever. making a difference through the worthy Data aren’t available to show total nonprofits doing such incredible work. JN dollars donated in Arizona during the most-recent tax season, but we’re pretty Kristen Merrifield is CEO at the Alliance of Arizona sure that the financial support was far Nonprofits. For information about nonprofit less than it would have been before agencies statewide, visit azgives.org.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 17 SPECIAL SECTION

CHARITABLE GIVING

SmartALLISON L. KIERMAN ways to give tzedakah is the season for tzedakah. Whether for Making a day of contribution is an easy way ’Tyear-end tax planning, or a desire to help to support the organization and its mission. those less fortunate, December is a great time If you are a guest at an event, a day of con- for charity. tribution is also a thoughtful way to thank

Maimonides noted — and scientific studies your event or table host. Allison L. Kierman gives advice to clients in her office. PHOTO COURTESY OF KIERMAN LAW have proven — that the act of giving benefits • Contributions sent after consideration: vehicle for the type of long-term charitable gift is intended to help leave or further the both receiver and giver. Once you have made No matter how you discover a new charity, commitments organizations require to donor’s legacy within the charitable organi- the commitment to perform the mitzvah of you should take some time to reflect on the carry on their missions. Donor advised zation. Of course, surviving family members tzedakah, it is helpful to identify the causes that organization’s goals. This includes review- funds provide substantial tax benefits and may also make a legacy gift to honor the resonate with you and align with your values. ing the organization’s website, evaluating are less expensive and less onerous than loss of their loved one. The legacy left is Below are a few considerations for making the types of programs the organization private foundations. The Jewish Community powerful, no matter the form. charity a more meaningful part of your life, and supports and even considering the orga- Foundation and many private financial firms for making your money go further. nization’s administrative costs. GuideStar. Arizona’s Jewish nonprofit organizations offer donor advised funds. • Make charity a family affair: Pooling org, CharityNavigator.org, Charitywatch. rely heavily on community support. There are money as a family, and voting on where and org and Give.org are all valuable resources • Establish a scholarship: Supporting an many ways to perform the mitzvah of tzedakah and all are beneficial and appreciated. Giving how to allocate those funds, is a great way to that can help you evaluate an organization’s alma mater or other favorite public or private should align with personal charitable goals teach children the importance of charitable performance in achieving its mission. Taking institution is a great way to invest in the and fulfill a personal desire to improve the giving. The process will also help you define time for consideration can help you feel future, establish a legacy and strengthen your community. JN your family values and philanthropic goals. comfortable with your donation and allows ties to a great organization. • Make a day of it: Attending a charity lun- you to make a donation to an organization • Legacy giving: Legacy giving happens Allison L. Kierman is the managing partner of cheon or gala is a great way to support your that resonates with you. upon a donor’s passing, but the planning for Kierman Law, PLC, an Arizona estate planning law firm based in Scottsdale. She's on the board favorite cause, or learn more about a new • Long-term commitments: Donor it often starts as a legacy gift during a person’s of directors at Congregation Beth Israel. Visit 03-10-013one. You should 11/20/13 be prepared 10:08 for “theAM ask.” Page 1 advised funds are becoming a popular life as part of their estate plans. The legacy kiermanlaw.com for more information. Over 250 Kivel Residents Still Rely on Us Your generosity will cost you $0 thru the AZ Tax Credit Program All donations to support: All donations received under this special Tax Credit Program will • • be used to underwrite essential services for the elderly who must Full Memory Care Program Resident Food Pantry rely on our Community’s collective generosity. • Jewish Services and counseling • Special off Campus Trips Donate on-line www.kivelcare.org or complete and FAX to: (602) 957-9493 or • High Holiday Meal programs • Enhanced assisted living staffing mail to: Kivel Campus of Care: Tax Credit, 3040 N. 36th St., Phoenix, AZ 85018 _____ Please send me the 2019 Tax Credit Forms Donate any amount up to $800 for couples filing jointly 1. ($400 for individuals) by 4/15/2020 via check, credit card or on-line at Name ______www.kivelcare.org Street ______Submit tax forms, which will be sent to you upon request,* with your 2019 Arizona City ______State ___ Zip ______2. Income Tax filing. For most, state income tax will be reduced by the amount of the donation to Kivel. *(Forms also available on-line via www.revenue.state.az.us) Telephone ______To participate, simply complete this form. You will be sent an acknowledgement for tax purposes. E-mail ______Include your donation among Charitable Contributions in filing your 2019 Amount of donation: $800 $400 Other $______3. Federal Tax return.Your federal tax may be reduced. J Check enclosed payable to Kivel Campus of Care Consult your tax advisor for details on how the tax credit will impact your filings. J Please charge this charitable gift to : J VISA J AMEX J MC J DISCOVER

Kivel Campus of Care is a non-profit, non-sectarian charitable organization (501(c)(3)) Card#______Exp. date ______3040 N. 36th St., Phoenix, AZ 85018 • (602) 314-4002 Signature ______

18 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION

CHARITABLE GIVING Give the gift of volunteering STEVE CARR

t’s the holidays, and beyond the planning and • Volunteers are almost twice as likely to Iexcitement surrounding family gatherings, donate to a charity than those that don’t gift buying and giving and simply celebrating, volunteer according to The Corporation for many Americans take time to volunteer. National & Community Service. Interestingly, a first-of-its-kind analysis from There are many volunteer opportunities at data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Human Services Campus, both during Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that despite the holiday season and throughout the year. nonprofits reporting record volunteer hours Among them: and charitable fundraising totals from 2002 to 2015, it’s not because more people are giving Human Services Campus time and money. • Post office: Assist clients in receiving and In fact, the report, “Where Are America’s sending mail. Offer basic campus and com- Volunteers?,” revealed that the number munity resource information. Stamp, sort of actual volunteers and the percentage of and purge mail. Americans annually donating to nonprofits is • Front desk specialist at the Brian Garcia down. Dramatically down. Welcome Center. Assist clients with initial The national volunteer rate fell from 28.8% questions. Learn about services for shelter, in 2005 to a 15-year low of 24.9% in 2015. housing and crisis situations. Assist with At the same time, the percentage of Americans basic office tasks such as making copies and YEARS donating annually dropped from 68.8% in organizing materials. 20 2000 to 55.5% in 2014. • Front desk specialist at Lodestar Day That means fewer people are doing more to Resource Center. Assist clients with day- make a difference in communities nationwide. to-day questions. Help clients connect The way to change those numbers is to 1) to services offered on the campus. Work volunteer and 2) donate, and there are plenty closely with security to maintain a safe envi- of opportunities to do both. ronment for both clients and staff. Hand “Volunteering during the holidays is often out hygiene items and restock supplies. a family tradition, and it’s also a great time to St. Joseph the Worker establish a year-round plan to give your time • Front desk assistant: Responsible for to worthy causes and nonprofits doing great assisting clients when they first enter. work in our communities,” said Steve Davis, • Clothing volunteer: Sort donated items development director at the Human Services including clothing, toiletries and tools; Campus, a 13-acre property near 12th Avenue identify and organize employment appro- and Madison where more than 15 nonprofit priate clothing. From our family to yours, wishing you a organizations collaborate on services, support healthy, light-filled and and program for men and women experienc- • Mock interviewer: Help prepare clients for ing homelessness. “Nonprofit organizations job interviews by creating as realistic an like the Human Services Campus, and the experience as possible. individuals we serve every day, could use the • Resume writer: Assist job-seeking clients by Happ Hanua! help throughout the year.” creating and editing resumes, cover letters According to VolunteerHub.com, “Our and emails and conducting employment www.jfcsaz.org | (602) 279-7655 ability to provide our time and expertise can searches. make an immense difference in the world • Job readiness workshop class instructor: around us and within the communities that Teach curriculum to aid in the successful we reside. The fact of the matter is without job search. volunteerism nonprofit organizations cannot • Computer lab volunteer: Assist clients who fulfill their mission and achieve their goals.” use computers for job searching purposes Here are three facts about volunteers and and oversees the computer lab. volunteering, also from VolunteerHub.com: Volunteering is an excellent way to give • Individuals between the ages of 35 and back and can truly make a difference in the 54 are the most likely to volunteer their community. JN time according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics. Steve Carr owns the Kur Carr Group. For more infor- mation about volunteer opportunities among the • Volunteers are worth on average $24.14 an 15 partners of HSC, visit the websites for Human hour according to an Independent Sector Services Campus at hsc-az.org and St. Joseph the study. Worker at sjwjobs.org.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 19 CALENDAR

Hope for Today: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Temple Chai MONDAY, DEC. 23 Small Sanctuary, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. Caring for our Loved Ones: 7 p.m., Temple Chai FEATURED EVENT Spiritual program of recovery for those who suffer Small Sanctuary, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. TUESDAY, DEC. 17 from the debilitating effects of chronic pain and A Jewish support and resource group for families chronic illness, based on the Twelve Steps of AA. and caregivers. No charge, but donations The Battle for Jerusalem, 100 Years in One Hour: For more information, contact [email protected]. welcomed. Conflict, Geopolitics & Chanukah: 7:45-9 p.m., Makor Weight Loss Workshop: Busting Diet Myths: 6 SUNDAY, JAN. 5 Synagogue, 13402 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite A120, p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Israeli Movie Series: 3 p.m., East Valley JCC, 908 Scottsdale. Jake Bennett presents the modern history Road, Scottsdale. Dr. Robert Ziltzer, M.D., FACP of N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Screening of “Arabani,” a movie about a Druze who returns of Jerusalem and relates it to the story of Chanukah. Scottsdale Weight Loss Center will discuss why some people gain weight, why people regain with his children to his native village after having No charge. To register, email [email protected]. been estranged from it for 17 years. Suggested weight, how to prevent weight gain and which donation: $5. For more information call diet(s) are really best. Free. 480-897-0588 or email [email protected]. Events SUNDAY, DEC. 15 WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18 Ladles of Love: 9 a.m.-noon, East Valley JCC, Family SATURDAY, DEC. 14 “But Now God is Not One”: Kabbalah as the Cry 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Volunteers MONDAYS Rides for Toys: 5-8 p.m., Hobby Lobby Parking of a Broken World Longing for Redemption: cook and deliver meals. To register, visit: 9-10:30 a.m., The Brunch Lot, 4710 E. Ray Rd., Ahwatukee. Children can 1-2 p.m., Temple Beth Shalom of the West Breakfast Babies: ride on a City of Phoenix fire truck or police car in evjcc.org/ladles-of-love. Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Speaker: Dr. Café, 15507 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 100, Scottsdale. A fun-filled morning gathering for exchange for donating a new, unwrapped toy or Warrior in the Kitchen Series: Hearty Instant Nathaniel Berman. Suggested donation of $18. parents and grandparents with babies or toddlers. clothing item (size newborn to 8-year-old boy or Pot Recipes: 10-11:30 a.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, Visit valleybeitmidrash.org for more information. Complimentary coffee and a chocolate-covered girl). The donations will go to at-risk children at 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Learn to Supporting Loved Ones with Depression: 6:30-8 strawberry with the purchase of any meal. valley charities. cook plant-based, one-pot meals. Tickets: $45 for p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Includes a story time picture book reading. SUNDAY, DEC. 15 members, $55 for guests. To register, visit: Road, Scottsdale. A panel of licensed therapists Call 480-398-7174 or visit brunchcafe.com Blood Drive: 8 a.m.-noon, Temple Emanuel vosjcc.org/instantpot. will discuss how to support loved ones with for more information. of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Men of depression, helpful resources and how to identify Israeli Movie Series: 3 p.m., East Valley JCC, 908 Baby dance classes: 9:15-9:45 a.m., Arizona Emanuel will host the Vitalant bloodmobile in the and recognize symptoms and warning signs of N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Screening of Sunrays Gymnastics & Dance Center, 15801 N. synagogue’s parking lot. Visit bloodhero.com and depression. Panel includes licensed marriage “Torn,” a documentary about a Polish Catholic 32nd St., Phoenix. For babies who are walking enter templeemanuel as the sponsor code to sign priest who discovers that he was born to Jewish and family therapists Jamie Pattee, Minon Maier up. For more information, call 602-565-3492 or up to age 2 ½. This baby dance class is a fun parents. Suggested donation: $5. To register, visit and Kelly Ontiveros. Tickets: free for members, email [email protected]. introduction to music, movement and dancing. evucc.org/movie-series. $5 for guests. To register, visit: Babies will dance to the music while using SUNDAY, DEC. 22 MONDAY, DEC. 16 vosjcc.org/supportlovedones. all kinds of different props and toys. Parent/ Oy Vey 5K at the J: 8 a.m.-noon, Valley of the Sun 6:30 p.m., Temple grandparent participation is required. Free. JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Family Breast Cancer Support Group: A Poetic Mythology for our Age of Anger? Advanced registration not required, limited to first event for runners and walkers of all ages. Kids Fast Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. Support The Furious Emergence of Gods, Devils, and 20 children who arrive. Call 602-992-5790 or Dash for ages 3 to 6 starts at 8 a.m., 5K Run/Walk group for Jewish women in their journey through Human Beings in Kabbalah and its Lesson for visit arizonasunrays.com for more information. for ages 7 and up starts at 8:30 a.m. Tickets: $30 all stages of breast cancer, including treatment Today: 7-8:30 p.m., Temple Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn for ages 7 and up, $10 for ages 3 to 6. Fee includes and recovery. For questions or to RSVP, contact Road, Phoenix. Speaker: Dr. Nathaniel Berman. THURSDAYS a long-sleeved race t-shirt, post-race snacks and Jessica Knight at [email protected] or Suggested donation: $18. Register at: Baby dance classes: 9:30-10 a.m., Arizona swag bag. To register, visit vosjcc.org/funrun. 202-359-6835. VBMTorah.org. Sunrays Gymnastics & Dance Center, 15801 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. For babies who are walking THURSDAY, JAN. 9 Living through Loss: 4:30-6 p.m., Temple Chai JACS: Support Group for Jewish Alcoholics, up to age 2 ½. This baby dance class is a fun Music in the Shadow of the Holocaust: 6 p.m., Small Sanctuary, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. 7:30 p.m. Addicts, and their Friends and Family: introduction to music, movement and dancing. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., No charge, but donations are welcome. Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Babies will dance to the music while using Chandler. Featuring pianist Carolyn Enger and TUESDAY, DEC. 17 Scottsdale. For more information, call the Shalom all kinds of different props and toys. Parent/ composer Daniel Asia and their respective works, Arts & Culture @ the EVJCC: 10-11:30 a.m., East Center or email [email protected]. “Mischlinge Exposé” and “To Open in Praise.” VIP grandparent participation is required. Free. Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. THURSDAY, DEC. 19 Advanced registration not required, limited to first tickets are $36 and general admission tickets are Speaker: Cantor Jonathan Angress of Beth $18 in advance and $25 at the door. For more The Life and Tragedy of King David: 9 a.m., East 20 children who arrive. Call 602-992-5790 or El Congregation. Topic: From the Bimah to Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. visit arizonasunrays.com for more information. details or to purchase tickets, visit evjcc.org/ Broadway. Suggested donation: $4. For more holocaustmusic or call 480-897-0588. Free, registration required. To register, visit: MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS information, email [email protected]. evjcc.org/open-beit-midrash. Meetings, Lectures & Classes Baby gym classes: 9-9:30 a.m., Arizona Sunrays Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group: 10-11:30 Talmudic Heroes: 10 a.m., East Valley JCC, 908 N. Gymnastics & Dance Center, 15801 N. 32nd MONDAYS a.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Alma School Road, Chandler. Cost: $14. To register, St., Phoenix. Parents (and grandparents) are Mahjong Mondays: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., East Valley Road, Scottsdale. This grassroots group will visit evjcc.org/open-beit-midrash. invited to bring in their babies, ages 6 months JCC, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Every meet every other Tuesday. Free and open to the to 18 months. This parent-child class uses Monday, except on Jewish or legal holidays. No community. Patient care not available during the EVJCC Interfaith Series: 11 a.m., East Valley JCC, tumbling mats, balance beams, parallel bars and RSVP is necessary. This free program is intended group session. For more information, contact the 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. President trampolines. Work on strength, balancing and for players with prior experience. Be sure to bring Desert Southwest Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Gary Smith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- coordination with your baby. Free. This is a “drop a current mahjong card and a set if you have one. Association at 1-800-272-3900 or alz.org/dsw. Day Saints will speak about their history, tenets in” class; advanced registration is not required. For more information, visit evjcc.org or and current challenges. Includes kosher lunch Call 602-992-5790 or visit arizonasunrays.com call 480-897-0588 Let’s Appreciate Art: Art All Around Us: 11 a.m.- after the presentation. $14 ($20 after Dec. 15). for more information. noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale WEDNESDAYS To register, call 480-897-0588 or visit: Road, Scottsdale. Monthly visual presentation by WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS ‘The Valley News’: 10-11:30 a.m., Valley of the Sun evjcc.org/open-beit-midrash. Baby gym classes: 9:30-10 a.m., Arizona Sunrays JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. The a docent from the Phoenix Art Museum. Topic: People of the Book Group: 2 p.m., Temple Chai Gymnastics & Dance Center, 3923 E. Indian School class focuses on current events and is led by Dr. Phoenix Art Museum Treasure and Teasers. Small Sanctuary, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. Road, Phoenix. Parents (and grandparents) are Michael Epner. No registration required. Speaker: Lisa Spahr. Free. For more information, contact Harriet at 480-481-7033 or A discussion about “Inheritance: A Memoir of invited to bring in their babies, ages 6 months THIRD SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH [email protected]. Genealogy, Paternity, and Love” by Dani Shapiro. to 18 months. This parent-child class uses Jewish War Veterans: 10 a.m., Arizona State RSVP to [email protected]. tumbling mats, balance beams, parallel bars and Veterans Home, 4141 N. S. Herrera Way, Phoenix. Let’s Knit: 1:30-4 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, trampolines. Work on strength, balancing and Scottsdale Post 210 welcomes all Jewish 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Knit caps Mature Mavens Dinner Out: 5-7 p.m.. Monthly coordination with your baby. Free. This is a “drop veterans to its monthly meetings. Refreshments and blankets to donate to recipients throughout dinner out at a selected restaurant, singles and in” class; advanced registration is not required. served at 9:30 a.m. Call 602-256-0658 for more the Valley. Meets every Tuesday. Free. For more couples welcome. To be seated with the group, Call 602-992-5790 or visit arizonasunrays.com information. information, visit vosjcc.org/events. call Bunnye at 602-371-3744. for more information.

20 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM CALENDAR MONDAY-FRIDAY, DEC. 23-JAN.3 Chanukah Winter Break Shemesh Camp: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., SUNDAY, DEC. 15 Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Storytime with Temple Emanuel of Tempe: Scottsdale. Day camp for grades K-4 with art, 1 p.m., Changing Hands Book Store, 6428 S. sports and swimming. For exact dates, visit vosjcc. McClintock Drive, Tempe. Celebrate Chanukah REACH HIGHLY EDUCATED, AFFLUENT READERS IN THE VALLEY org/events. For more information or to register, with stories and songs with Rabbi Dean Shapiro call 480-634-4949 or email [email protected]. from Temple Emanuel. Website Print E-Blast Facebook WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25 TUESDAY, DEC. 17 Page Views Readership Subscribers Followers Spies in Disguise: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Studio Movie Baking Class: 7 p.m., East Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma Grill, 15515 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale. Spin the School Road, Chandler. Holiday baking class with 40,000 15,000 4,500 3,795 dreidel, make crafts with PJ Library and watch chef Melinda. Registration required. Tickets: $18. the much anticipated movie Spies in Disguise Register at evjcc.org. featuring Will Smith. Tickets: $15 for members, WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18 $20 for guests. Registration required by Dec. 13. Family celebration: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Temple Upcoming Special Sections For more information or to register, visit vosjcc. Emanuel of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. org/programs or call 480-481-7090. Celebrate Chanukah with latkes, crafts, dreidel Shabbat derby and a singalong. Chanukah FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH Sharing the Light: A Communal Interfaith First Fridays: 6:30-8 p.m., Beth Emeth Holiday Concert: 6:30 p.m., Pilgrim Rest Baptist Greetings Synagogue, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. Church, 1401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Join the December 20 Begins Nov. 1. Traditional Friday night services Arizona Jewish Historical Society, Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church and Congregation Beth Israel with a twist; each month a special aspect, theme for an interfaith concert featuring Christmas Send holiday greetings or prayer from the Shabbat evening liturgy is and Chanukah music from Jewish and African- and help Jewish News focused on. Questions about the service, and American spiritual traditions. Free, no readers celebrate the Jewish prayer in general, will be answered to reservation required. help each person. No fee, open to everyone, holiday season with this Jewish and non-Jewish alike. For beginners and FRIDAY, DEC. 20 special section. experienced members. For more information, call Chanukah lunch for seniors: 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Center for Senior Enrichment at The Palazzo, 623-584-7210 or email [email protected]. 6250 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix. Lunch and menorah FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH lighting with Rabbi Nitzan Stein Kokin from Beth Kavana Café: 8:45 a.m., Congregation Or El Congregation. Musical entertainment by Gal Business/ Tzion, 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale. This is an Drimmer, an Israeli guitarist and vocalist. Cost: $10. informal opportunity to learn with Rabbi Micah To RSVP, contact [email protected] or call Ask the Expert Caplan prior to Saturday-morning services. 602-943-2198. December 20 A light breakfast will be served. For more EVERY NIGHT OF CHANUKAH information, visit congregationortzion.org or call Town of Carefree Chanukah Celebration: Content devoted to the 480-342-8858. 5:30 p.m., Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy Valley’s dominant industries, St., Carefree. Menorah lighting will be led by a EVERY SATURDAY economic trends and Torah Express: Noon, Congregation Or Tzion, different community group or family each night. 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale. On Shabbat First night festivities hosted by Temple Chai innovative entrepreneurs mornings, during the congregation’s Kiddush and the Jewish Social Group of Cave Creek and publishes monthly. Ask the Carefree. Gift bags will be available for children lunch, join Rabbi Micah Caplan and other Expert allows local business every evening. For more information, visit Jewish professionals and teachers from the christmasincarefree.com/menorah-lighting. people to share insight from community for an in-depth study of the Torah their field of expertise. portion of the week. No RSVP required. For more Seniors information, visit congregationortzion.org or call FRIDAY, DEC. 27 480-342-8858. New Year at The Palazzo: 1 p.m., Center for Senior SATURDAY, DEC. 21 Enrichment at The Palazzo, 6250 N. 19th Ave., Home Design/ Sippy Cup Shabbat: 10-10:45 a.m., Congregation Phoenix. Performance by singer/impersonator Kehillah, 5858 E. Dynamite Blvd., Cave Creek. Tom LaGravinese. Champagne and cake will be Real Estate served. Free. To RSVP, contact carol.goldstein@ This special Shabbat morning is designed for jfcsaz.org or call 602-943-2198. December 20 parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles of toddler-age children and is open to all families in FRIDAY, JAN. 3 Whether you’re in the Celebrate Arizona: History of Sunnyslope: 1 p.m., the community. Welcome the first day of winter business of repair and and prepare for the beginning of Chanukah with Center for Senior Enrichment at The Palazzo, Shabbat music, dancing stories and more. RSVP 6250 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix. Ed Dobbins shares renovation or buying and to Renee by Dec. 18th at 602-369-7667 or via the history of Sunnyslope, an area in north central selling homes, showcase Phoenix known as an early haven for sufferers email at [email protected]. of tuberculosis. No charge. To RSVP, email carol. your company to readers MONDAY, DEC. 23-FRIDAY, DEC. 27 [email protected] or call 602-943-2198. throughout the region. Winter Camp Ages 2-pre-K: Camp Rimon Katan Arts at the East Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. For more information, visit: WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS AND JEWISHAZ.COM evjcc.org/camp. SUNDAYS, DEC. 25-JAN. 19 Old Jews Telling Jokes: 2 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 MONDAY, DEC.23-FRIDAY, JAN. 3 p.m. start times, Herberger Theater Center, Contact your sales consultant to schedule Winter Camp Grades K-9: Camp Rimon Gadol 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. The Off-Broadway at the East Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma School Road, comedic performance visits Phoenix. For more your advertising at 602-870-9470, ext. 2, Chandler. For more information, visit: information about the show or to order tickets, [email protected] evjcc.org/camp. visit playhouseinfo.com or call 602-252-8497. JN

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 21 COMMUNITY

A Chanukah miracle Phoenix Sings brought together eight congregations for a A bull by the horns Chanukah singalong on Sunday, Dec. 8, followed by a menorah The Arizona Jewish Historical Society honored Marnie and Harvey Dietrich, left, with the Jerry Lewkowitz Heritage Award and a cake in the lighting and a sufganiyot buffet. shape of a bull’s head at the “Boots & Bling”-themed 2019 Heritage Award Gala on Nov. 16. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARIZONA JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY PHOTO COURTESY OF CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL

The mensch's workshop Children from the Chabad of Phoenix visited The Home Depot and got to craft their own menorahs. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHABAD OF PHOENIX

Learning from Luther Alon Goshen-Gottstein, right, spoke about Martin Luther’s changing attitudes on the Jews and anti-Semitism at a Valley Beit Midrash event held at Temple Chai on Thursday, Nov. 21. PHOTO BY HERSHL WEBERMAN

This COMMUNITY page features photos of community members around the Valley and the world. Submit photos and details each Have you heard the buzz? week to [email protected] by 10 a.m. Monday. Scottsdale artist and photographer Linda Enger gave a presentation about her “Cross Pollination” series of artwork at a Nov. 26 arts and culture program at the East Valley JCC. PHOTO BY LEISAH WOLDOFF

22 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM MILESTONES

ENGAGEMENT DANIELLE LINN AND JARED SCHENKMAN Danielle Linn of Scottsdale and Jared Schenkman of Subscribe to Cave Creek announce their engagement. Parents of the bride-to-be are Melanie and Gregg Linn. Parents of the groom-to-be are Amy and Stuart Jewish News Schenkman. Danielle graduated from the University of Arizona in 2016 and works as a speech pathologist. Jared graduated from the University of Arizona in 2013 and is a mortgage banker. The wedding will take place in December 2020. f just OBITUARIES $4 Per Albert Mendy Sarko, age 63, died of heart failure on Nov. 20 in his Tucson home, where he had resided for the past three years. A child prodigy, he was an accomplished musician who had studied music Month composition at the New England Conservatory, Yale and Columbia. Albert Billed as $48 a year. spent 10 years touring Europe playing with many well-known musicians. He played several instruments; he was best known as a pianist, playing jazz music, some of which he wrote himself. Music was his true love and he enjoyed teaching as well as performing. A true artist that marched to his own drum. His father, Emanuel Peter Sarko, passed away in December 2007. Albert is survived by his mother, Elaine Weingarden Sarko, of Scottsdale; sister Suzen Sarko; and nephews Stephen Ravet and Brandon and wife Sigi Ravet.

SARALYN ROSE LASNER Saralyn Rose Lasner, 81, died Dec. SHARE YOUR 2, 2019. She was born in Oakland, ENGAGEMENT, WEDDING, California, and lived in Phoenix. BIRTH, BAR/BAT-MITZVAH She is survived by her spouse, Harvey Lasner of Phoenix; and her son, Bert ANNOUNCEMENT AND ANY Lasner of Phoenix. OTHER SIMCHA ON BOTH Services were held on Dec. 5, 2019, at JEWISHAZ.COM AND THE Beth Israel Cemetery and were officiated WEEKLY JEWISH NEWS... by Rabbi Laib Blotner. Arrangements by Sinai Mortuary of FOR FREE. Arizona. Memorial contributions can be made JEWISHAZ.COM to Chabad of Mesa at 941 South Maple, Mesa, AZ 85206.

JIM WAXENBERG Jim Waxenberg, 74, died Sept. 23, 2019. He was born in Davenport, Iowa, and lived in Scottsdale. He was a member of Temple Solel. jewishaz.com/month He is survived by his spouse, Tobee Waxenberg; daughter Natalie Waxenberg; son Andy (Hallie) Waxenberg; brother Stuart Waxenberg; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morrie and Irene Waxenberg; and his brother, 602-870-9470 ext. 1 Howard Waxenberg. Services were held on Oct. 3, 2019, at Temple Solel and were officiated by Rabbis Jond Linder and Emily Langowitz. Arrangements by McDermott-Crockett Mortuary of California. Memorial contributions can be made to Jim Waxenberg Youth Fund, Temple Solel, 6805 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253. JN

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2019 23 Leave the Lasting Legacy of Jewish Journalism

HEADLINES | 6 SPECIAL SECTION | 17 ake a chari a le dona ion o e wish News and hel PITTSBURGH MEMORIAL EVENT FAMILY MATTERS Pittsburgh residents, Treating pediatric pain with su or e wish communi j ournalism. celebrities and dignitaries opioids and helping children gathered to honor Tree of and teens navigate the pitfalls Life victims of social media Recen gif s hel ed su or he kind of re or ing ha has consis en l won he a er man honors including mul i le awards from he American ewish ress NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | KISLEV 8, 5779 | VOLUME 70, NUMBER 60

Associa ion and he kind of cri ical communi co erage Jewish organizations $1.50 ha ou e come o e ec from he ewish News. keep prisoners from Educators, parents, grapple being forgotten with talking to children NICK ENQUIST | STAFF WRITER JANETabout PEREZ | trauma MANAGING EDITOR lthough Jewish prisoners make up less than 1 percent of By making the Jewish News a benefi ciary of your will, Athe prison population nationwide, Rabbi Menachem Katz t’s become a depressingly familiar continues to maintain contact with prisoners to help provide what Irite that parents must go through they need, such as religious texts, prayer services, and to make with their children every time rus r e iremen accoun or life insurance olic ou sure that they are treated fairly. there is a mass shooting. But But his work is not easy. for Jewish parents, the massacre Jewish inmates in Arizona, for instance, have refused to meet at a synagogue in Pittsburgh will e crea ing a hilan hro ic legac ha will hel with Katz, who works with Jewish prisoners all over the country, has burned with the anguish of because of the fear of white nationalist gangs. thousands of years. “We wanted to come visit them, but they said, ‘No, that will be Children have heard and talked sus ain he i ran oi ce of e wish Ari ona. h e her too dangerous for you,’” said Katz, the Aleph Institute’s director about shootings in schools and of Military and Prison Outreach in Florida. “In Arizona, there is malls, but talking about a shooting a concern with white supremacy.” According to Katz, there are currently 40 Jewish prisoners in SEE TRAUMA, PAGE 2 ou read us in rin or online lease hel us con inue Yeshiva School girls pray outside Tree of Life. the Arizona state prisons and 20 in federal institutions.

A 2016 ADL report listed California and Texas as having the PHOTO BY JIM BUSIS highest concentration of white supremacist gangs, followed our commi men o ringing ou he local e wish news by “problem” states of Oklahoma, Indiana, Missouri, Oregon and Tennessee. Arizona’s problem is not as big, but still has an Election update impact on prisoners and visitors. Almost a week after Election Day, three-term U.S. Rep. Kyrsten our communi c oun s on. But that has not stopped the Aleph Institute from providing Sinema has been declared the winner in the race to fill the seat of retiring U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake. She was in a tight race with its services. Republican U.S. Rep. Martha McSally. Sinema is Arizona’s first woman U.S. senator. She is also the first Arizona Democrat to be elected to the upper chamber in 30 years. Two races with Republican Jewish candidates remain undecided. Visit jewishaz. SEE PRISONERS, PAGE 3 com for election updates.

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24 DECEMBER 13, 2019 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM