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FIGHTING ADDICTION PASSOVER Inspired by personal loss, Dessert, breakfast ideas sober house founder and Sephardi recipes for hopes to save others the Pesach holiday

MARCH 27, 2020 | NISSAN 2, 5780 | VOLUME 72, NUMBER 14 $1.50 Synagogues become Community plans for smaller, virtual communities more intimate Passover seders ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER

hat does a Shabbat service look like with no congregants? How ith two weeks until Passover, the Greater Phoenix Wdoes one study Torah via a computer screen and a video link? This WJewish community is anticipating muted celebra- week, as people hunkered down in the Greater Phoenix area amid the tions amid COVID-19 concerns. With the rise of social COVID-19 pandemic, many synagogues had to find out. distancing and synagogues closing through the end “Everyone’s staying connected, that’s the goal,” said Rabbi Micah of March, people expect smaller family celebrations to Caplan of Congregation Or Tzion. “The goal is to have a connection for take the place of community seders and large hosted everybody and to have different outlets that we can provide for people gatherings. who really are yearning for some prayer and happiness and community. For many, canceling large seders can be especially Those are the things I think that people are looking for.” disheartening because it’s one of the most anticipated Congregation Or Tzion started livestreaming services on Friday night holidays of the year. and Saturday mornings, as well as Thursday’s minyan. The synagogue “There’s a reason why Passover is the most popu- also offers videos and a weekly blog to help members stay connected. lar festival in Judaism,” said Cantor Seth Ettinger of “These are the times that we’re living in, but we’re very grateful that Congregation Beth Israel. “This is the time that we we have technology like this,” Caplan said. “Even though physically we remember from when we were little kids that all of our are separated by social distancing, we’re still united as a group spiritually family would get together and each of us had ownership on things.” and emotionally. It might feel eerie or strange because the room is empty, A kosher for Passover food display at Fry’s Marketplace in but the room is full, because we know everybody’s there. Everyone’s there SEE SEDERS, PAGE 3 Scottsdale. PHOTO BY ELLEN O’BRIEN watching and everyone is there participating.” Debbie Blyn, executive director of Temple Chai, said that even before the synagogue became virtual only, many regular congregants were already making the choice to stay home and participate via livestream. Cookie goodness “The world has changed dramatically this week. I think by last week, Girl Scouts teamed up with members of Temple Chai and ABLE Financial to we all saw it coming, but it has changed dramatically,” she said. “It’s very donate boxes of cookies to refugees this month. Pictured from left are Girl Scout Isabelle Jacobs, Jenny Tatum from Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, frightening, and it’s not a place any of us want to be.” and Girl Scout Chloe Main. Temple Chai has been livestreaming services for over a year — “that is CHRISTIANNE MENESES JACOBS very much part of our culture now,” Blyn said. Nevertheless, when the SEE VIRTUAL, PAGE 2

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NATIONAL INTERNATIONAL ISRAEL UJA-Federation of New York to assist Musical ambassador wants to El Al is preparing to bring New Yorkers with over $23 million break down barriers with art Israeli travelers home HEADLINES VIRTUAL municate and stay connected.” because of the technological limitation. It in a CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 She said congregants are responding well, way deepens our understanding of the subject synagogue recorded a message from Rabbi but “everybody has a different level of comfort and even our connection with one another, Mari Chernow and Cantor Ross Wolman with technology.” because it forces us to make an extra effort so on Monday, March 16, Blyn said the room “We’re all in it together, experimenting to speak, to really be in tune with the class itself didn’t feel the same without the congregation together,” Chizeck said. “I read something and with the participants of the class.” present. that really resonated with me, which was we Overall, the rabbi is hopeful that online ways “It’s the first time I can remember us ever need to be patient with one another and our- of learning and connecting will broaden the streaming something that had nobody in the selves as we go through this uncharted territory ways in which people are able to relate. room. It felt very, very different,” Blyn said. together and know that not everything will “Generally speaking, I think people should 2020 Phoenix “We’ve gotten good feedback and we had a lot work perfectly and that we will support each be looking for a new language that they will of engagement, but it’s a very, very different other in doing what we can and getting to the learn, a new way of connecting that will expand Jewish News type of engagement.” level that we wish to.” their horizon in general,” Allouche said. “I Nevertheless, Blyn said Temple Chai will Congregation Beth Tefillah has also moved think it could be the beginning of a new era Print Dates continue to share content to help community its services and classes online, with a virtual in Jewish learning, in Jewish connection and members stay engaged. prayer service twice a day and classes for in spirituality in general, where people learn to January 10 August 7 adults and children. The synagogue is using speak multiple languages to one another and to “We’re going to be regularly putting stuff January 24 August 28** Facebook, Zoom and YouTube to reach its God. And a language that is not just physical out like that to engage with our community February 7 September 4 and as a way for our clergy — even though they congregants and will soon launch a website but a language that is virtual, a language that can’t connect one on one — to help people to host online activities and classes, as well as a is emotional, a language that is heart to heart February 21 September 11 with the spiritual nourishment that they need virtual counseling platform. and soul to soul.” March 6 September 18 Rabbi Pinchas Allouche kicked off the online On Wednesday, March 18, Ahavas Torah and engage with our kids as well,” Blyn said. March 20 October 2 learning program with a class on “Controlling announced that the shul would be closed until In the midst of the shift to online learn- March 27 October 16 ing, Temple Emanuel of Tempe is installing our anxieties and navigating through uncertain further notice. In a letter to the community livestreaming abilities for the first time as well as times” on Wednesday, March 18. He said there on Thursday, March 19, 10 Orthodox rab- April 3 October 30 using other online tools to connect. The clergy are both pros and cons to the new format. bis, including Rabbi Ariel Shoshan of Ahavas April 17 November 6 “It feels different on multiple levels. First, Torah, announced the closing of all shuls and made a video for Erev Shabbat that was shared May 1 November 20 when you’re in a room full of people, I think shared guidelines for staying home, postpon- via email and Facebook, and Saturday morning May 15 December 4 Torah study will be available by Zoom. most people can sense the energy in the room ing simchas and canceling all minyanim and “We’re experimenting right now. We’re or even becoming tuned with the body lan- gatherings. June 5 December 18 testing different formats, seeing what reso- guage of people, and that does not exist on “The magnitude of this decision should June 5* a device, on Zoom, on any type of virtual impress upon every member of our community nates with people and what they respond to, July 10 *Best of Magazine what they’re looking for,” said Gerri Chizeck, class. So it’s harder on that level to connect to the seriousness of the situation. Life cannot July 31 **Annual Directory managing director of Temple Emanuel. “We’re people,” Allouche said. “On the other hand, proceed as usual, significant lifestyle changes using combinations of social media and Zoom I think that we are forced to listen more in an must be made,” the rabbinic statement said. and streaming — whatever we can to com- online class, to connect more with one another “At the same time, this is our opportunity to WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM

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2 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES respond as Jews should under such difficult of using technology not only to study, but to was from a father who texted me that when circumstances and proceed with the comfort stay connected. services started, it was just him on the couch. of knowing that we are fulfilling the will of “An important element besides learning is And by the end of the service, he was joined Hashem.” making sure that people who are stuck perhaps by his wife and his four daughters and all six All classes at Ahavas Torah, including the at home alone or in small groups don’t feel of them were sitting there together, enjoying twice daily Daf Yomi class, a daily class based on isolated,” Shoshan said. “Our get-togethers the Shabbat, and that it was a very meaningful the Chofetz Chaim’s teachings on the power of will focus sometimes on just being together experience.” speech and a weekly class on Nesivos Shalom, and making sure that everyone is OK.” He emphasized that social distancing doesn’t have moved online using Zoom. The Torah Temple Kol Ami held its first livestreamed have to be isolating. A Jewish Cemetery that cares center’s first Zoom class on Thursday, March Shabbat service on Saturday, March 14. The “We can be physically distant, we don’t have about the Jewish Community 19, had over 75 participants, and on Sunday synagogue has had the ability to livestream for to be socially distant,” Schneider said. “We’re the synagogue held its first virtual story time. about a year and a half and previously used the all trying to do the best we can to support each “With thanks to G-d, a Jewish person can technology to record bar and bat mitzvahs. other and help each other and be there for each live his essential Jewish life under all conditions. This is the first time it has shared a public other in our most vulnerable way.” The home has always been the primary sanc- livestream. Caplan advised community members to take tuary of Jewish life and for the time being we While streaming from the empty sanctuary advantage of online tools that help the com- have now brought even more Torah learning with cantorial soloist Emily Kaye, Rabbi Jeremy munity stay together and support one another. and prayer into its holy walls,” wrote Shoshan Schneider asked congregants to send messages “My advice would be to find their con- in an email. “Although nothing can replace and photos so that he knew they were there nection, to find their connection Jewishly,” • Jewish Owned and Operated • Sidewalks at Every Grave being together, computers are helping us for throughout the service. Caplan said. “Judaism teaches us: Don’t sepa- • Jewish Owned and Operated sure. We have already had some experience “It was incredible to engage with the con- rate yourself from the community. It’s one of • Caring Professional Staff • Intermarried• Paved Sidewalks Families Throughout –Welcome with this, as last summer we recorded video gregation in real time and know that they were those values that’s been around for a long time. No Need to Ever Walk on a Grave messages in our ‘Summer Spirituality’ series home. I had people text me pictures of them Don’t separate yourself from the community, • Intermarried Families Welcome to help our community stay connected while in their living rooms, or on their parents’ beds, be a part of us, stay connected. That’s what • Beautiful(480) Open-Air 585-6060 Pavilion for Services many were traveling.” in front of the TV, streaming, feeling very con- Judaism expects from us: We stay connected 24210• Caring N.and 68thProfessional Street, Staff Phoenix Shoshan also emphasized the importance nected,” Schneider said. “My favorite quote no matter what happens to our people.” JN (off Pinnacle Peak Rd) mtsinaicemetery.com(480) 585-6060

SEDERS questions and learn together.” “Seders, traditionally, for hundreds and www.mtsinaicemetery.com CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Ettinger plans to find a way to share Passover hundreds of years have only just been with e-mail: [email protected] with Pilgrim’s Rest, possibly with a video of family, and that’s what they’ve returned to this 24210 N. 68th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85054 Jane Wabnik normally looks forward to him and Pastor Terry Mackey discussing the particular year,” Meyerson said. "We should (off Pinnacle Peak Rd) hosting a seder for at least 14 friends and ritual objects and performing the symbolic continue to have our seder and continue to family members. parts of the seder. do the Haggadah and continue to make it a “It’s always been a lovely time together. Other community members are also finding beautiful family affair and do what we’ve always Next year, I hope.” ways to celebrate with smaller gatherings. done for 3,500 years.” Wabnik decided on March 14 to cancel her “I think that a lot of families are not going Ettinger even sees an upside to this year’s seder, the same week that many synagogues to get together to celebrate with their guests, more intimate seders. were closing and community events were so that’s going to be more of a very intimate “The silver lining of this is we get to actually being canceled. kind of celebration. That’s going to be the talk to each other now,” Ettinger said. “We’re “It just made the most sense to do that and biggest change,” said Rabbi Michael Beyo of not going to want a 30 minute seder just so that to be safe, especially because my home is not the East Valley JCC. “Another change will be we get all the stuff done and get to the food. large, so we would have been sitting very close that people are not going to be able to find the We are missing human contact so much that together, passing things around,” she said. food that they are used to finding.” I’m sure that’s going to change the mindset of For Alan Zeichick, this Passover will also Zeichick, for one, isn’t letting the corona- people to say, wow, we don’t care how long this look much different than in previous years. virus interfere with his plans for the holiday. goes, we just want to talk to each other. And “The biggest change for us is the seder. “We are observing Passover completely,” I think that’s an amazing positive for people Since we are empty nesters and our son lives Zeichick said. “We’ve done most of our to look and to see who is really here with us at far away, we typically do one synagogue Passover shopping, and will be cleaning the this time that maybe wasn’t last year.” community seder, and one seder at a friend’s house, changing dishes and so on shortly.” Zeichick was also hopeful that the holiday house,” Zeichick said. While there won’t be as many guests as usual, would provide some respite from recent stress. For Cantor Seth Ettinger, coronavirus con- he hopes that a few friends will still be able to “Nothing will stop our observing Passover, cerns meant canceling plans for CBI to host celebrate together. and indeed, in this time of trouble, it’s comfort- an interfaith seder with Pilgrim’s Rest Baptist “Maybe we’ll have a couple friends over, but ing and important to maintain a normal life,” Church and the Arizona Jewish Historical we’ll just do something ourselves,” Zeichick Zeichick said. Society, which would have brought together said. “We can maintain our social distance." And as Ettinger pointed out, there is always more than 300 congregants from the church Wabnik is planning on just three guests for next year. and the synagogue. Passover: herself, her husband and a family “That’s why we say l’shana haba’ah, next “There was a lot of sadness, and it wasn’t friend. year may we be in Jerusalem, because we will an easy decision to make,” Ettinger said. “We’ll do kind of a mini seder, nothing very have the opportunity, thank God, to do it But “just because we cannot be together long,” Wabnik said. again,” Ettinger said. “L’shana haba’ah, next physically doesn’t mean that we still can’t Robin Meyerson sees the small seders this year, may we all be together physically. That’s tell the story to each other and ask year as a return to tradition. the goal.” JN

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LOCAL Amid coronavirus, mental health professionals struggle with a pandemic of fear SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR she’s Snapchatting them and letting them “pleasantly surprised they’re coping pretty know she’s here. adequately so far,” though he acknowledges hile COVID-19 is taking an obvious Daniel Levi, a licensed clinical professional that “cabin fever is inevitable.” toll on physical health, with more W counselor, said he has seen anxiety increase, Time for telemedicine? than 17,000 deaths worldwide, its emotional because the “theme of uncertainty is dominat- While Silver is someone who would rather impact is at least as intense. Many people are ing mindsets.” He acknowledged that people meet with people in person to get a better anxious and uncertain — afraid they or their who have conditions such as anxiety disorders, sense of what’s going on, Jung says now is the loved ones may be sick, afraid for their bank PTSD and any trauma-related conditions time to explore telemedicine. She was an early accounts and retirement plans, afraid of how have had those magnified as things get more proponent of the technology and has seen the long they’ll be trapped inside and generally intense. risks and rewards of a digital setting. afraid that whatever future awaits after the virus Levi wants to “help people get grounded She said that while the younger generation may be very different from the past. and get their minds cleared again.” is much more comfortable and are digital Experts say forced lockdowns can trigger Some therapists recognize that they are natives, older people may have “integrated mechanisms in the human body a bit like also at risk. to the land of online media,” but they still imprisonment. Adrenaline and hormones Judith Freilich, a psychiatrist at The may not be comfortable with a therapeutic such as cortisol are released, triggering acute Meadows, writer and someone who has been interaction online. stress. Blood pressure, the heart rate and pupil through trauma herself, said, “Even as expe- Jung said that people benefit when she is dilation all increase, generating a classic “fight rienced as I am, this is bringing up anxiety, as able to extend the “therapeutic space” with a or flight” instinct. it has for most people.” Listening and com- client by giving homework through a portal The American Psychological Association forting as much as possible are key to helping which makes it a longer interaction. However, has coined a new term for the stress created people get through this, she said, as is trying funding for these sessions is not uniform, by the unprecedented situation: “Coronavirus to stay positive, even though it isn’t easy and which leads to some difficulties for counselors Anxiety.” can’t be constant. and their clients. Mental health experts are on the frontlines Room for hope Levi, who is relatively new to Scottsdale, dealing with this second pandemic of fear, and Others have found their clients to be said that telemedicine has been something the Jewish News spoke with several Jewish managing fairly well. he’s relied on as he travels between here and mental health professionals about what people Joan Matlock, a licensed marriage and Chicago. He said that for it to be equal in are telling them. family therapist, has been pleasantly surprised therapeutic terms, you have to have had a ses- Initial responses because people haven’t been “as freaked out sion or two in person so that the connection is Audrey Jung is a licensed professional coun- as you think they might be.” Rather, she said, a lot stronger once you’re using video. selor who has been in practice for 25 years. it’s an added layer to what they’ve already been He also pointed to some potential prob- Having worked closely with first respond- going through. lems. For example, there are factors that can ers, she knows how important it is to make “I’ve really noticed some of the resiliency in compromise people such as if a mom is sitting herself available to people so they can process some of my clients, especially those who suffer with her kids nearby while she is talking to him. whatever they’re going through. from anxiety. They can put it in perspective Those are things that will have to be managed “At this point, I’m just trying to help people because they’re not feeling the physical effects, for it to be as effective as in-person sessions. cope,” she said. so they’re using the opportunity to use the ‘I had to stabilize myself first’ People are trying to come to some form skills they’ve developed,” she said. Matlock said that self-care is particularly of acceptance of what is going on. Over the Jack Silver, the director of training and important in this moment, but it often gets course of a week and a half, she has witnessed Jewish counseling for Jewish Family & shunted to the side, especially by women who patients go from thinking this is merely inter- Children’s Service, handles many older adults are used to taking care of others. Focusing on esting to suddenly worrying that “we can and said since Tuesday, March 17, he has been ourselves doesn’t mean we are being selfish. never leave our house again.” meeting with them by phone. So far, he said, “Taking care of ourselves is part of tikkun “People are trying to figure out how they’re “nobody is overly anxious or wigged out,” olam,” she said, which is a novel concept for working to squish the curve, so to speak,” and they seem more worried about the stock people. Jung said. They’re “mucking” through it. market and toilet paper than becoming ill. “I’m in the boat with everyone else; that Some are looking around and feeling uncom- The people he talks to are doing a good job never leaves my awareness,” Matlock said, SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS where all your friends can see! fortable and hurt and angry about what people keeping informed about health recommenda- acknowledging that she had to stabilize herself around them are doing, while others are break- tions, and Silver encourages them to keep before she could help her patients. Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Births, Engagements, Weddings ing it down into increments of how they’re doing that, offering himself as an example. Meditation, mindfulness and breathing going to deal with it, she said. He’s encouraging them to use self-calming techniques are recommendations all the Milestone announcements Jung, who works with the post-confir- techniques like good, deep breathing. are an added bene t for subscribers. therapists stressed to deal with the anxiety For subscription details, mation class at Temple Emanuel in Tempe, Silver said following CDC guidelines to COVID-19 has created. They practice these contact [email protected]. where she’s a member, usually talks to kids flatten the curve is good advice, and it’s impor- about dating and relationships. Right now, tant not to catastrophize. Thus far, he has been SEE MENTAL HEALTH, PAGE 18

4 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

LOCAL Local podcasts offer new way to connect ELLEN O’BRIEN | STAFF WRITER Community Kollel, said his podcast is a way “It’s very time consuming to produce the more messaging from the clergy via podcast. to share the unedited experience of a live class, podcast, each stage is a significant investment I see that there’s potential with youth group abbis in the Greater Phoenix area are tak- complete with questions from students. of time,” Isaacs said. “But the feedback that using the podcast. Hopefully it will continue Ring to the airwaves to reach congregants, “I do like for listeners to listen to what I’ve gotten from people who listen to it, and grow.” students and anyone else who is interested people are asking, because it could be that whether it’s people locally or people in other One reason that podcasts are a good way to in learning more about the weekly Torah that’s what the listeners are thinking to ask cities or even some people in other countries, reach people, Bronsteyn said, is that they’re portion. themselves,” Bronsteyn said. mainly Israel, the feedback that I’ve gotten available to those who might otherwise not With three local podcasts — Temple Solel Bronsteyn uploaded the first episode of has been so encouraging and gratifying that have the time to listen, learn or attend a class. of Paradise Valley’s eponymous podcast, Rabbi “Parsha Classes” in November 2019. His it makes all the effort worth it.” And with many people practicing social dis- Yisroel Isaacs’ weekly “10 Parsha Points,” and episodes cover topics ranging from humility At Temple Solel, podcast editing is simply tancing, it also offers them an alternative to Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn’s biweekly podcast and inspiration to medical procedures and a matter of cutting out the sermon from the attending in person. “Parsha Classes” — the community has joined alternative futures. livestream of Erev Shabbat services. “It’s a very good tool given the current the boom in podcasting that’s taken place over Isaacs of Beth Joseph Congregation has “Really what we’re doing is nothing spec- environment,” Bronsteyn said. “People want the last decade. been publishing a weekly podcast, “10 Parsha tacular,” Pishko said. “It is just the sermons, to come and participate in a class, but they feel “It just started as a way to document the Points,” since August 2019. In each 20-30 we’re not doing any added music, we’re not apprehensive about being with other people.” sermons that are given in our Erev Shabbat minute episode, Isaacs offers insights on selling ads, we’re not using it as a fundraising And for someone looking for the right services by our clergy,” said Temple Solel that week’s Torah portion from a Modern tool, but there’s potential to do all of those podcast, Isaacs said, there’s a near-infinite executive director Peter Pishko. “Every once Orthodox perspective. things.” variety of podcasts for different interests and in a while, you get a call saying, ‘Hey, can I get “The idea is to discuss meaningful aspects Pishko hopes that Solel will be able to take communities. a copy of the sermon that was delivered last of the weekly parsha with a contemporary advantage of that potential and expand its “Practically speaking, they’re nearly end- night,’ or ‘I’d like to share the sermon with relevance, that relate to issues that address what podcast offerings in the future. less,” Isaacs said. “There are topics where somebody.’” it means to be a human being, what it means “I think there’s potential for more, I just there’s not enough people interested in them Bronsteyn, who has over 400 recorded to be a Jew in America in 2020,” Isaacs said. think that so far, we have not taken it to the to get a local audience, but if you add all the hours of classes since he arrived in Arizona While the editing process is a bit intensive, next step,” Pishko said. “As we continue down English speakers in the world, it is enough of in 2000 and began lecturing at the Phoenix Isaacs said the process is worth it. this new reality, I think there’s potential for an audience to build a community around.” JN Passover Dinners From AJ’s Bistro

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CONNECT Linda Luth continues to exercise at home. PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDA LUTH to your Jewish community.

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JUNE 2, 2017 | 8 SIVAN 5777 | VOLUME 69, NUMBER 35 $1.50 Reflections on the Locals remember the Six-Day War 50th anniversary of DEBRA GELBART | CONTRIBUTING WRITER ith the 50th anniversary of the Six-Day War approaching, Jewish News asked Israelis now living in the Six-Day War WArizona to share their memories of that monumental clash. On June 5, 1967, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) made a pre-emptive strike against thousands of Egyptian RABBI JOHN A. LINDER | SPECIAL TO JEWISH NEWS troops massing at its border, destroying almost the entire Egyptian Air Force. Jordan and Syria soon joined forces with Egypt to attack Israel. By the time a cease-fire agreement was signed on June 11, victorious une 7, 1967 was my 10th birthday. Jews around the world Israeli forces had seized control of the Gaza Strip and the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt, East Jerusalem were celebrating. Now, I know my beloved mother would and the West Bank from Jordan, and the Golan Heights from Syria. Jgo to great lengths to make me feel special, but not even SEE WAR PAGE 12 my mom could orchestrate such hoopla over my first-decade milestone. Of course, while little Johnny Linder was getting lots of birth- Better Together day loving from my family and friends, the Jewish world was Phoenix creates riveted, unified and euphoric over Israel’s military reunification super partners of Jerusalem. Many of us grew up with David Rubinger’s now iconic upward Participants in the Better Together looking photograph of soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces Phoenix program, which pairs middle school students with se- 55th Paratrooper Brigade moments after bringing Jerusalem’s niors, gathered on May 21 for a holiest site under Jewish control for the first time in 2,000 years. banquet and to watch a documen- What an extraordinary moment. The nascent modern state of tary made by the students. Clock- Israel, against all odds, in what’s come to be known as the Six- wise from left, Adam Schwartz, Congregation Beth Israel Youth Day War, pre-emptively struck and defeated the surrounding Director Jessielyn Kreitzer, par- Arab countries that sought to destroy Israel and push her into the ents Cindy and Darren Schwartz, Mediterranean. Not only did Israel successfully defend herself, Better Together Phoenix Program Israel captured the Gaza Strip and the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt, Director Tami Simmons and Pat the West Bank (including East Jerusalem) from Jordan and the Bruner. See story on Page 6. Golan Heights from Syria. It was nothing short of biblical David PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTER TOGETHER PHOENIX and Goliath. Jews in the diaspora, from secular to religious, stood a little taller, elevated with pride over the near mythic victories Exercise in the time of the IDF in both the 1948 War of Independence and now the Six-Day War.

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NATION MIDEAST WORLD Dems, Trump protest terror payments Norway pressures Palestinians Jewish history and Dresden

facebook.com/JewishAZ twitter.com/phxjnews ofSHANNON LEVITTcoronavirus | MANAGING EDITOR aily routines are changing in ways “I exercise every day, and my gym bud- Call 602-870-9470 to subscribe Dvery few could have imagined a few dies tell me that I motivate them to ask months ago. Offices and schools are their doctors questions. They tell me I closed. There are no more happy hours am an inspiration. I think we inspire each at favorite bars and restaurants. Trips other,” she said. and meetings have been postponed or Luth last went to the gym on March 16. Are you an elderly ENGINEERS canceled. People are scrambling to figure She has an exercise bike she rides about person or couple out this year’s Passover plans and who will 45 minutes every day without fail. She looking for a even be at the seder. plans to add walks and investigate all the In all the complexity of adjusting to YouTube workout options. CAREGIVER/ a new reality, many people are likely “Everyone is being creative,” she said. relieved that they no longer have to The only class she won’t be able to do COMPANION PHOENIX, AZ, IS SEEKING: squeeze the gym into their busy day. It virtually is her Cardio Jam class, which can seem a burden to those who have a is a hard one to let go of. The Greater SENIOR SOFTWARE gym membership only to demonstrate Phoenix area has many hiking and bik- their good intentions. With most gyms ing trails that remain open, though that ENGINEER: shuttered, this is a guilt-free exercise option is difficult for Luth due to balance To architect over-the-air software holiday. issues post-cancer. But what about the so-called gym rats, “I am not ready for that,” she said. “I update infrastructure utilizing Uptane all those people for whom exercise is used to ride 10 miles every day before & Yocto with the controls team for the not a “should” but a “must.” There is my diagnosis, but because of my balance electric powersports veh & semi-trucks. a segment of the population who find issues I am afraid to fall.” themselves lost without a daily sweat. Luth shares her journey of survival and Cancer survivor Linda Luth is one of recovery with medical students in a pro- Req’s Bachelor’s degree in software those people. Saying she loves exercise is gram called Survivors Teaching Students engineering or related majors + 2 yrs an understatement. She sees it as one of through the Ovarian Cancer Research exp in developing enterprise-level the important reasons she is now healthy Alliance. She was set to participate in a after living through a stage 4 ovarian program with 2nd Act to reach even more • Excellent cooking & housekeeping skills software infrastructure. cancer diagnosis. Two years after a dif- people before the event was canceled. • Perfect driving record • Flexible hours ficult process of surgery, chemotherapy However, she’s not one to let this get the • Excellent references SEND TECHNICAL RESUME TO ATTN: and recovery, there is no longer any best of her. She didn’t let cancer change disease detected. Luth knew that exercise who she was, she said, and she won’t let HR, NIKOLA MOTOR CO., certainly couldn’t hurt, but she found it this circumstance either. Call Lupita at: 4141 E BROADWAY ROAD, to be something that helped keep her “You cannot keep an exercise fanatic PHOENIX, AZ 85040 physically and mentally healthy through down,” she said. “Where there is a will 602-481-2013 the long recovery. there is a way.” JN

6 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

LOCAL You should know … Sophia Gerber SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR and advance to a new level of competition all Even though you didn’t get past the while focusing on a science major in prepara- second round of your Final Four-related ewish basketball star may not be the tion for a career in medicine. She’ll have a competition, it sounds like it was pretty most familiar of headlines, but with packed schedule for sure, but she’s already intense. J PHOTO BY MAX PREPS 17-year-old Sophia Gerber, the appellation investigating some options to involve herself The Final Four and American Family applies. Gerber, a senior at Desert Mountain in the Jewish community on campus. Insurance host a 3-point contest and slam- What was the recruiting process like for High School in Scottsdale, a member of How did you get started with basketball dunk contest every year wherever the Final college ball? Congregation Beth Israel and 6-foot-tall and Maccabi? Four is taking place. We have to be voted The recruiting process for me was very dif- shooting guard, will be playing basketball I’ve been playing since I was 3 or 4. into it. ferent than most girls who go to a PAC 12 next year for the University of Colorado We’ve been members of the Valley of the I knew from the get-go that I had to use school. I started late in the process. I did not Boulder, an NCAA Division I program, Sun JCC as long as I can remember. I think social media as a platform, and social media think I was going to play Division I or college which means she’ll be in the big leagues of before I was born my parents were going is so important in today’s time. I feel that’s basketball in general until midway through college ball. there. My parents got introduced to Maccabi, one of the best ways to get information out my junior year. I was playing with the Arizona Whether Gerber will have the chance to so my older brother did it once before I did. quickly. I figured if I was able to have this Rebels for two years. When I realized that I was play in a March Madness game during her I competed in two of the U.S. Maccabi big social media campaign I would help get good enough to go Division I, I switched club years at CU is unknown, but already she’s games in Alabama and St. Louis, and I just myself out there. The first round was close. teams to 602 Lady Nation, and immediately been able to take part this year via a 3-point recently did the European Maccabi games in Basically, it was just social media, bothering I knew I was in the right spot. I was one of shooting contest. She advanced to the sec- Budapest this past summer. It was a really fun all my friends and relatives, every single day. the biggest girls on my team, and we played ond round amid stiff competition, and even time, probably one of the best experiences I know it was really annoying for them. I just some of the best teams in the nation, big Nike though she didn’t make the finals, she learned I’ve had basketball-wise. I don’t know a lot know I have a strong support group behind teams, girls that end up at amazing Division I a few things about social media and playing of Jewish basketball players, and to see them me now, because I would see people post- programs. on a big stage. from all over the world and to meet them and ing on their Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, The goal was to get good exposure, and She started out following her older talk to them and see how they live as young that I don’t really know that well or haven’t that’s when my recruiting started taking off. It started with some Division I schools in the brother’s03-10-013 lead playing11/20/13 in the 10:08 JCC MaccabiAM Page Jewish1 females on the other side of the world even talked to in a long time. It was cool Games, and now she’s about to graduate was an incredible experience. to see that. SEE YOU SHOULD KNOW, PAGE 18 Over 250 Kivel Residents Still Rely on Us Help Safeguard the Lives of the Frail, Elderly at Kivel he ssisted iing and Independent residents sered y the iel ampus of are are already among our communitys most ulnerale -02-43 adults when any disease is present he I epidemic greatly or mail to:Kivel Campus of Care:,3040 N.36th St.,Phoenix,AZ 85018 magnifies the threat or Call (602) 314-4002

o protect residents physical as well as mental health, there is an urgent All donations received under this pecial Program will be used need to purchase far greater uantities of supplies asks, gowns, face to underwrite essentialservices for the elderly who must rely on shields, sanitiers, disinfectants, etc than could hae een anticipated our Community’scollective generosity. he threat is real he need is real Name ______Please consider making a donation to help meet the potentially Street ______life-saving need. City ______State ___ Zip ______If this is something you would do for your parents or grandparents, do it for Telephone ______the residents of kiel E-mail ______s we hae done for the past years, iel will continue its mission of proiding uality serices to the frail, elderly of our community Amount of donation: $ ther In unexpected times like these, we are so grateful for your ongoing J Check enclosed payable to Kivel Campus of Care generosity and support — thank you! 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 ______

JEWISHAZ.COM ` JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 7 COMMUNITY BRIEFS

LOCAL In less than a week, Feldman raised over Girl Scouts donate cookies to refugees JFCS takes action to protect $3,000 to donate to American Friends of Girl Scout Ambassador Troop 1991 from community from COVID-19 Magen David Adom’s Red Bag of Courage Pinnacle High School in Phoenix teamed Jewish Family and Children’s Service program. He originally planned to raise up with Temple Chai members Adam is keeping health care centers and $1,000 by selling his mom’s challah, but she Brooks and Lee Eisinberg from ABLE clinics open and continuing to serve knew she wouldn’t be able to make enough. Financial Group to donate 100 boxes of at-risk populations amid coronavirus Instead, Chompie’s offered to donate all the Girl Scout cookies to charity, March 13. concerns. challahs he could sell, and with the help of a social media video, he reached his original With the help of individual donors, the “The work we do is more important $1,000 goal in the first 20 hours. girls increased the donation to 150 boxes. than ever,” said Gail Baer, vice president Feldman was able to donate one bag of Troop 1991’s donation went to Lutheran of philanthropic services for JFCS. supplies to Magen David Adom for every Social Services of the Southwest’s Refugee “As an agency that works with vulnerable thousand dollars he raised. Each of the three & Immigration Services program, which populations who are most at-risk, bags includes essentials like oxygen masks, offers employment and education support, we are adapting our programs and syringes and Band-Aids. “Everything they youth mentoring and case management reviewing alternative strategies to need to save a life,” Feldman said. to immigrants and refugees in Phoenix continue serving those who depend on Feldman also received a commemorative and Tucson. our services.” duffel bag for each donation he made. He Jenny Tatum, director of volunteer While health care centers remain open,

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELI FELDMAN COURTESY PHOTO plans to keep one bag with his name on it engagement at LSS-SW, said that children JFCS made some adjustments to other and is looking to donate the other two. in the daycare, preschool and after school programs and services. Some, such as Bar mitzvah project raises money While Feldman’s bar mitzvah celebration programs were thrilled to have Girl Scout older adult in-home services, food pantry for Israeli ambulances was postponed due to the coronavirus cookies for snacks and to take home, while deliveries and family supervised visitation, For his bar mitzvah on March 14, Eli outbreak, he’s not entirely disappointed. the troop was excited to bring happiness will have service delivery changes. Other Feldman wanted to plan a project that would He said there would have been at least one to the children and their families. programs, such as bereavement group both help Israel and outdo his brother, so he downside to holding the party as planned: “We thank ABLE Financial for counseling, memory café and hospital took a suggestion from Rabbi Micah Caplan “It would have been harder, because we generously donating Girl Scout cookies to chaplaincy, will be suspended until further at Congregation Or Tzion: Raise money for would have had to have it really clean — the children and families,” said troop member notice. For more information, go to Israeli ambulance services. cleaner than normal. Really, really clean.” Isabelle Jacobs. jfcsaz.org. JN DON’T MISS OUT! Place your ad in the Jewish News BEST OF… Senior Life and Living Magazine Place your name among the best! Join us in honoring members of the Jewish community who make the Valley a vibrant place to retire. Publishing June 5, 2020

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8 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES LOCAL Beth El Mezuzah Online ceremony LTD is here! honors ‘track SUK-HUI DAILYMINYAN: • of Jewish • Unique Custom recovery’ Weddings SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR The labyrinth at Soberman’s Estate in Cave Creek. FashionsSpecial Occasions PHOTO BY SHANNON LEVITT Exquisite fabric, n an isolated patch of Sonoran A longtime member of Temple Chai, Idesert north of Phoenix sits a large Prager reads Rabbi Mark Borovitz’s trim, silk, & lace. SHABBATSERVICE: and unassuming house along with a few “Finding Recovery and Yourself in Torah” Custom tailoring outbuildings. Driving by, one would every day, and encourages the clients to & alterations for hardly guess that it is a residential treat- follow his lead. men's & women's ment facility that its founder, Mitch Prager realized that many people com- ADULTEDUCATIONONLINE: Prager, hopes might be an answer for ing to his facility are Jewish, and they’ve clothing. those struggling to beat addiction. But recently updated the curriculum with what had this been an option years ago, this is he terms “a track of Jewish recovery.” To just the kind of place that might have saved honor that, they are having a small blessing 7038 E. McDonald Dr. Prager’s brother and dear friend, who both ceremony and hanging a mezuzah March died of their addictions and who are the 25 with Rabbi Bonnie Koppell. Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 inspiration for his efforts. It was going to be a bigger event, but www.bethelphoenix.com | (602) 944-3359 After touring roughly 50 residential COVID-19 is a concern. “We don’t bury treatment centers around the country, our head in the sand about what’s going 480-951-1388 Prager has come to understand that while on in the world right now,” Prager said. there’s no panacea, providing enough “We know, and they (the men) want types of therapy is key. He said the recov- to share about and talk about that; we Vote for the Winners! ery “magic” might happen in art class, welcome them to do that because it’s working with horses, walking in a labyrinth therapeutic and healthy.” Voting closes Sunday, April 19 or even in plain old traditional therapy. He About the mezuzah, Prager said, decided his facility would have them all. “Shame on us that we waited this long.” Soberman’s Estate opened a year ago Marty Liebman, a team member in ADERS’ C RE HO replete with psychiatrists, medical and long-term recovery for 32 years, noted  IC  E nursing staff, as well as all the therapies that when he was facing his addiction,  that Prager found in his research. His people didn’t want to admit that “nice brother died of an overdose, and his long- Jewish boys” had these problems, which time friend died by suicide after a brief stint Prager said was his experience, too. “It was of sobriety. Those experiences, as well as considered a shanda,” Prager said. But he W I N E R his own struggle with alcoholism, taught has long since come to realize that as with N Prager first-hand what addiction does to any disease, “it does affect Jewish people people and how difficult it is to overcome. equally” even though “maybe we’re kind Prager saw a way he could help others by of ashamed to say that to the public.” building a facility with an all-hands-on- Prager said as proud as he is of the From your favorite restaurant deck approach. facility, “we’re just a link in the chain of to the best bagel… Five adult men are in residence at recovery. We don’t have any illusion that Soberman’s now, and the plan was to have when they leave here that it’s going to Day camp to your favorite 10 by this summer. The clients tend to be easy.” But the men do get a care plan doctor... be a bit older, and the population is kept that’s been developed by a team of people. Shabbat service to best at a minimum to develop sophisticated The addition of the mezuzah might individual programs. The lack of women be one more thing that makes the facil- nonprofit organization… in the house is, Prager says, a way to keep ity unusual, but for some of its residents, the men focused and able to open up. Soberman’s already is a blessing. Mark Although Prager and the men who Greenberg, a Jewish client currently in Go online and tell us what you think! inspired Soberman’s are Jewish, it is residence, was unequivocal when he said, readerschoice.jewishaz.com not a religious place, but it is spiritual. “This place is going to save my life.” JN

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 9 OPINION Editorials Staying mentally healthy during a pandemic ver the past several weeks, the and depression are all natural results of an making time for enjoyable activities; and coming up with creative solutions to stay OCOVID-19 pandemic has radically uncertain period with vast economic and connecting with others. connected. Synagogues are livestreaming changed our lives. With schools, houses societal change. We recommend readers take this advice services and learning opportunities. The of worship and most retail shuttered, Of course, we are all focused on our seriously. Jog in your backyard or walk Institute for Jewish Spirituality has hosted and with so many cities and states on physical health — every cough seems like up and down your stairs. Grab a yoga virtual meditation sessions, while Hazon lockdown, we all look for new routines a harbinger. But as we observe the guide- mat. Add perishable foods like fruits maintains a list of resources and sugges- and rituals that can approximate a sense lines provided by our local and regional and vegetables to your Instacart order. tions for wellness activities. Both the of normalcy. That’s not easy to do when Martin Pear JCC and the East Valley JCC most of us are working from home, and IF THE ISOLATION IS GETTING TO YOU, are working to create online resources on leaving the house only for necessities. It’s their websites, and the Martin Pear JCC also not easy to manage anxiety and stress KEEP IN MIND THAT THE JEWISH COMMUNITY has been granted access to a library of Les when the news is so grim. HAS BEEN COMING UP WITH CREATIVE Mills videos for fitness needs. While it all feels in some ways like a Programs like these can help us stay Hollywood blockbuster or post-apoca- SOLUTIONS TO STAY CONNECTED active and unwind from stress. We lyptic fiction, it’s all too real. If only we applaud these efforts and encourage the were sitting in a movie theater, munching health departments, it is equally impor- Get deep, consistent sleep. If the anxiety development of more. on popcorn and Junior Mints. It will be tant that we pay attention to our mental overwhelms, consider scheduling a time Though practices like eating well, exer- a long time before we sit anywhere in health. The Centers for Disease Control each day for worrying, so that it doesn’t cising and sleeping deeply may seem small a group like that, and even a long time and Prevention has a page on its website persist all day long. Or call a crisis hotline in the face of a global pandemic, they can before new movies are made. And that on managing stress and anxiety during or set up a video conference with a mental help us keep our minds clear and our bod- knowledge — that our old lives are gone, this crisis. It includes recommendations health professional. ies healthy as we work through the stress. even if just temporarily — makes the situ- for taking breaks from news coverage and If the isolation is getting to you, keep in During this time of great uncertainty, let’s ation even more frightening. Fear, anxiety social media; eating healthy; exercising; mind that the Jewish community has been not forget to take care of ourselves. JN Coronavirus in Israel: ‘No shticks or tricks’ enjamin Netanyahu — Israel’s care- the Shin Bet, would use electronic means the legislative process. may be spreading disease.” Btaker prime minister who has now to enforce self-isolation on the popula- But according to Eugene Kontorovich, a But why wasn’t the measure reviewed by been through three elections in less than tion in an attempt to slow the spread of law professor at George Mason University the Knesset? Last week, Knesset Speaker a year, and still presides over a fractured the virus. That decree prompted much and director of international law at the Yuli Edelstein, of Likud, suspended all governmental structure — ended last more reaction and criticism than the unity Jerusalem-based Kohelet Policy Forum, parliamentary activities in the face of a week with an offer to opposition Blue government offer. the monitoring measure “was justified Blue and White threat to unseat him. and White leader Benny Gantz to join in The monitoring move has support- and legal and should serve as a model for Nevertheless, Israel’s Supreme Court a national unity deal with “no shticks or ers and detractors. The main concern is the United States. … During this and directed that the practice of monitoring tricks.” Under Netanyahu’s three-year be stopped until the Knesset develops coalition offer, he proposed himself as the an appropriate supervision mechanism. prime minister for the first year and a half, THE VIRUS IS CLEARLY A NATIONAL That shifted the pressure to Edelstein with Gantz taking over for the remainder and his Likud friends to reopen the of the term. After the term, Netanyahu HEALTH CONCERN THAT REQUIRES Knesset, so that the necessary systems of says he will quit. According to reports, A CLEAR AND COMPREHENSIVE government can move forward, and Gantz can’t accept the deal because his Israel can chart its course for fighting principal coalition partners won’t let him. HEALTH-DIRECTED RESPONSE the pandemic. But that’s not all that’s on Netanyahu’s Meanwhile, on Sunday, Israel saw its plate. He must also deal with COVID-19 first coronavirus death, and has reported and its increasing threat to the safety and about civil liberties; detractors feel that other epidemics, the government has the more than 950 coronavirus infections. security of the Israeli people, including before giving security services the power right to curtail many fundamental liber- The virus is clearly a national health Israel’s Arab population. Responding to to monitor people in their day-to-day ties. One person’s rights end where they concern that requires a clear and compre- the view that the virus poses a major secu- lives, the personal privacy vs. citizen begin to endanger others. This informa- hensive health-directed response. It’s not rity issue, Netanyahu announced earlier health issue should be considered by a tion is used to save lives, by finding people the time for governmental, big-brother last week that the government, through Knesset committee and vetted through who have been unwittingly exposed and “shticks or tricks.” JN

A NOTE ON OPINION We are a diverse community. The views expressed in the signed opinion columns and letters to the editor published in the Jewish News are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the officers and boards of the Jewish Community Foundation, Mid-Atlantic Media or the staff of the Jewish News. Letters must respond to content published by the Jewish News and should be a maximum of 200 words. They may be edited for space and clarity. Unsigned letters will not be published. Letters and op-ed submissions should be sent to [email protected].

10 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM OPINION Commentary Afraid of the unknown? Three ways to reduce your panic

RABBI PINCHAS ALLOUCHE and our loved ones from the coronavirus itself, as it is evolving in the known present. Germany, where Jews were hiding from the pandemic. Yes, we should keep good And sadly, we then forget that what matters Nazis. It read as follows: “I believe in the n my weekly Friday call with my dear hygiene at all times. We ought to refrain most is what is now.” sun, even when it isn’t shining. I believe in Ifather, he shared with me a powerful anec- from attending public events if we are exhib- Will the coronavirus continue to force love, even when I am alone. I believe in G-d, dote that resonates profoundly during these iting any signs of illness. And we must ensure people into quarantine? Will the govern- even when He is silent.” uncertain times. that our homes, offices and organizations are ments of our world take any additional With a trembling voice, the survivor then The late Lubavitcher Rebbe once advised held to the highest standards of sanitization measures? Will we be affected, in spite of all said, “Although nothing will compare to the a man, who felt sick, to seek the advice of as recommended by our local health experts. of the necessary steps we are undertaking? evil I faced during the Holocaust, the silence two distinct doctors. “Be very careful about your lives,” the Will the stock market continue to fluctuate of G-d is, once again, heard today. Why is The first doctor diagnosed the man with Bible warns us (Deuteronomy 14:5). so frantically? No one really knows. this pandemic happening? I don’t know. a disease, and he recommended that he Indeed, we must treat the health of our We know that every day is filled with But in spite of G-d’s silence, I still believe in undergo a thorough medical treatment. Him, and my trust in Him is unwavering.” bodies with utmost vigilance and care. Yet, infinite treasures that will never return. The second doctor asserted, with great con- This brave hero is correct. Notwithstanding the health of our minds ought to be treated Every moment is filled with opportunities fidence, that the man is completely healthy the many questions we may have, G-d is still in the same way too. that beg to be actualized. Every hour holds and need not worry. in charge. There is little we can control. But But how can we maintain a healthy mind- within it blessings that impatiently wait to The man, now confused, returned to the He remains the “Master of the Universe,” set when panic threatens to destabilize our be unleashed. Every one of us has family Rebbe to ask whose advice he should follow. as Jewish liturgy states time and time again, The Rebbe’s response was poignant: “Your world? How can we not succumb to fears members and loved ones that deserve our who “controls all aspects of His creations.” body should follow the advice of the first when facing the unknown? unreserved love. So, at this fateful moment of our history, doctor. Go ahead and treat yourself, as he The answer, I believe, is rooted in So, let us throw away our fears and infuse it would behoove us to internalize this idea, suggested. But your mind should follow the Judaism’s revolutionary approach to fear, our every moment, every encounter and and meditate on the saintly words of King advice of the second doctor. And instead of conveyed in the following three ideas: every opportunity with undivided attention, Solomon (Proverbs 3:5-6): “Trust in the filling your mind with anxieties, think posi- What matters most is now. purpose and joy. Lord with all your heart and lean not unto tively, as if you were completely healthy.” My dear mentor and world scholar, Rabbi Trust in G-d with all your heart. your own understanding. In all your ways How brilliant. And how relevant to our Adin Even-Israel Steinsaltz, once shared Not long ago, I had the immense privi- acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your turbulent times. with me that, “We are often so preoccupied lege of meeting a Holocaust survivor who paths.” Without a doubt, we too should take all with our plans for the unknown future, that reminded me of the stirring line that was necessary precautions to protect ourselves we no longer have time to experience life found on the walls of a cellar in Cologne, SEE ALLOUCHE, PAGE 12 1918 to 2020: A great-granddaughter’s perspective

SHARON TAYLOR My great-grandmother, lovingly remem- 4,800 corpses lying dead in the fields there, The war’s end failed to bring relief. Even bered as Bubbe Hudia by her grandchildren, where days before the wheat harvest had as the flu spread across the globe, a new am descended from a singularly resilient was born in 1864 in eastern Galicia, today’s just begun. Cholera, typhoid fever and Polish-Ukrainian war brought fighting and Iwoman. western Ukraine. In 1910, Galicia was home dysentery spread across Galicia, and the violent pogroms to the cities, towns and Recently, my fascination with geneal- to 872,000 Jews, the ancestors of many of destruction of the fall harvest ensured win- villages that were once a part of Galicia. ogy led me to examine her life in the years us living in the United States today. ter food shortages. Despite ongoing violence and a spreading leading to the flu pandemic of 1918. Until Well before 1918, Hudia was a proven Back and forth The Great War ebbed and pandemic, Hudia and her remaining family today, studying family history had been survivor. Three famines and two periods flowed over the little place my family called found a way to survive. my conduit to long-dead ancestors whose of mass starvation left her stunted and her home. Hudia and the Jews of Mariampol Throughout the flu pandemic of 1918, DNA determined the color of my eyes and legs so badly bowed that she had difficulty survived a brutal Russian occupation, these are the things that Hudia and the embedded within me an optimism that walking. When Hudia was 47, my great- looting, pogroms and the fighting that family in Mariampol didn’t have — an colors every aspect of my life. grandfather died suddenly, leaving five accompanied Austria’s recapture of the intact home, food and access to the most Now, it has forever changed my perspec- children and a granddaughter in her care. town. In 1916, Bella died, leaving Hudia basic medicines and medical care. Replacing tive on the current situation. Her oldest daughter, Bella, was already and Sura Leah to care for her three young worn-out shoes was impossible, and schools Two years ago, I immersed myself in married with children of her own. children, suddenly orphans cut off from were rarely open. Letters pleading for help family history, starting with the year 1772 Within a year, the family began to their father in America. chugged slowly across the Atlantic Ocean and the acquisition of Galicia by the Austro- emigrate, but the start of the First World Galicia was full of Jewish orphans. In a and war-ravaged Europe. Hungarian Empire. By some strange turn War left Hudia stranded in a continent at cablegram to New York, representatives Survival depended on mutual support, of the universe, this past December my war along with her 9-year-old son, grown from the Joint Distribution Committee the charity of others and faith that the end studies had advanced to 1918, the year of daughters Bella and Sura Leah, and three begged for assistance crying, “Tenthousand to their suffering was just around the corner. the great flu pandemic that killed an esti- young grandchildren. (sic) war orphans are left penniless.” This brings me to the coronavirus mated 50 million people worldwide. This My ancestral shtetl Mariampol (today Clothing was so scarce that aid workers pandemic of 2020. may be obvious, but everyone alive today Mariyampil, Ukraine) became the site of resorted to making garments out of donated While I may get sick of beans and rice is descended from someone who survived fierce fighting before falling to the Russians. flour sacks to cover the children’s gaunt that catastrophe. On Sept. 3, 1914, a newspaper reported bodies. SEE TAYLOR, PAGE 12

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 11 RELIGIOUS LIFE

TORAH STUDY SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING MARCH 27 - 6:28 P.M. APRIL 3 - 6:33 P.M. ‘In these uncertain times ...’ PARSHA VAYIKRA Egypt and the arrival to the promised grocery shopping and in-person wor- SHABBAT ENDS land, they are neither here nor there. ship. Your rabbis are sacrificing hospital MARCH 28 - 7:23 P.M. LEVITICUS 1:1-5:26 Instead, they seek to create order, rou- visits and shiva minyanim and face-to- APRIL 4 - 7:29 P.M. RABBI SARA tine and structure from the deep, deep face meetings with wedding couples and MASON-BARKIN wilderness. The rules have changed. Their conversion candidates. Singles are sacri- authority has changed. They listen not ficing dates. Children miss their friends. Find area congregations at jewishaz.com, where his is the only to Moses, their leader, but also to Teachers learn to teach in a room without you can also find our 2020 Community Directory. Tphrase I have the God of their ancestors who is neither students and doctors put their fear aside heard more than tangible nor visible. And yet Vayikra, the and their gloves on as they care for their any other over the past week or so. As Book of Leviticus, which we begin this patients one by one. It is uncertain whether the goodness every business I have ever frequented week, details God and the Israelite people In these uncertain times, one thing has that has come out of this pandemic will sends emails to let customers know their in a new and emerging relationship. become clear: We too are learning how to continue when the danger has passed. Will new protocols with regards to COVID- This week’s parsha is focused on the transcend space. Through our korbanot, the ways that we have drawn closer to one 19, each begins with these words: “In korbanot (sacrifices). “The priest shall turn we have found other ways to likrav, to another through these sacrifices become these uncertain times ... we will be sanitiz- the whole into smoke on the altar as a draw close. The two words share their our new way of life, or will they fade to ing, we will deliver to your doorstep, we burnt offering, an offering by fire of pleas- root letters — kuf, resh, and bet/vet. It’s memory? When the children return to will maintain 6 feet of distance between ing odor to the Eternal” (Lev 1:9). The not a coincidence. We have sacrificed school and the parents back to work, and people, we will be closing …” and so Israelites are learning how to transcend our physical meetings, and drawn nearer we are no longer afraid of the shopping on. The world as we’ve always known it space. They are learning how to come to one another through text, through cart handles or the germ-covered door- seems to have come to a halt, and we lay close to One they cannot see. They are social media, through phone check-ins knobs, will we still make time to check in in limbo, many of us at home, wondering taking moral action: expiating their sins and notes left for our neighbors. Our with our neighbors and take long walks what the future will hold as we figure out and addressing their guilt through the act children write happy messages in chalk with our families? how to spend our days when our routines of sacrificial burning, sending the smoke on the sidewalks, sweet surprises for the The end of the story is still uncertain. have been so utterly disrupted. What of their gift up toward a God they believe many folks who walk by. Families spend When we are able to come face to face uncertain times, indeed. to be residing in the heavens above. hours taking long walks together. Dogs once again, may we not forget the close- As the Israelites wander through the These uncertain times have been are happier than ever, spending whole ness we shared in this midbar, as we midbar (the desert), they too are navigat- marked by our own sacrifices. We have sac- days with their owners. Hikers, keeping transcended the distance between us. JN ing their own uncertain time. A liminal rificed public gatherings, and comforting proper social distance, greet one another Rabbi Sara Mason-Barkin is the associate rabbi at generation, between the escape from touches. We have sacrificed school, work, with unusually warm smiles. Congregation Beth Israel.

ALLOUCHE TAYLOR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 And as we do so, let us pray to Him, the mood “in the streets of Israel,” as our pains of its aftermath before it’s over, I have a steady source of following prayer: nation was recovering from the devastating “It is our choice,” I answered my friend. food. I’m stuck inside my house, but I “Master of the universe, may you be over- Yom Kippur War. Rabbi Lau responded We can join the sad choir of our world’s have a house, a bed with warm linens and a come with mercy upon us and all the world’s that people are asking, “Ma i-ye, what will prophets of doom and perpetually ask, clean source of drinking water. There isn’t a inhabitants, and protect us from all harm, and be?” Upon hearing these words, the Rebbe “What will be?” Or we can choose to march cure for the virus yet, but I have medicines rescue us from every sickness, disease, plague grabbed Rabbi Lau’s arm and passionately to the empowering and cheerful tune of that, in 1918, Bubbe Hudia couldn’t have and pandemic. May all patients infected with replied, “Jews don’t ask: ‘What will be?’ “what we are going to do.” imagined. I should also mention the little the coronavirus be completely cured. May it Jews ask: ‘What are we going to do?’” Therefore, may I suggest that we sub- device that is constantly in the palm of my be Your Will, O Compassionate G-d, Healer If Moses had asked, “What will be?” stitute every emotion of anxiety with an hand, ready to connect me to friends and of all, to abolish all harsh and evil decrees. instead of confronting Pharaoh and implor- action of goodness. Every physical hug family anywhere in the world. And, unlike And may You help us and redeem us for the ing upon him to “let my people go and not given for the fear of spreading germs my great-grandmother, I am fortunate sake of Your kindness. Hear now please the serve G-d,” our nation may have endured ought to be traded with a mental hug of enough to be able to help others. voice of our plea, for You hear the prayers of many more years of slavery. unconditional love and care. Every hand In the cruel face of this pandemic, it has all; blessed is He Who hears prayer.” If Rabbi Akiva had asked, “What will be?” not shaken for the same reason ought to be become clear to me that somewhere in in lieu of dedicating his life to his people, replaced with a hand that is extended with my DNA, I have inherited Hudia’s faith Ask not what will be — ask what will our leaderless ancestors may have suc- a kind deed that shakes and lifts up souls. in a brighter future. Perhaps my driving we do cumbed to the evil decrees of the Romans, And every empty space that is created with curiosity surrounding family history was “What will become of our world?” some- and our people may have been reduced to a distance of suspicion, should be filled planted within me for just this moment, to one asked me just yesterday. the relics of history. with our relentless commitment to creating give me strength and to show me that that After gathering my thoughts, I shared And if the late Lubavitcher Rebbe had heart-to-heart relationships that will unite I am descended from a tenacious survivor, with my friend the story about a meeting in asked, “What will be?” and not revolution- our world instead of dividing it. a singularly resilient individual. Chances are 1974 between the late Lubavitcher Rebbe ized our generation with the call of “what Let us fight evil with goodness, apathy that if you’re reading this, you are, too. JN and Israel’s Chief Rabbi Lau. we are going to do,” our parents may with love, passivity with positive action and Sharon Taylor is a member of Gesher Galicia, During the course of their conversation, have buried themselves in the sorrows become ourselves the answer to the ques- an international society for Jews with Galician the Rebbe asked Rabbi Lau what was the of the Holocaust and the unfathomable tion of “what will be?” JN ancestry. She lives in Pennsylvania.

12 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION The Board of Directors and Staff of the Jewish Community Foundation PASSOVER wish you and your family a Ideas for Passover breakfast HAPPY PASSOVER! KERI WHITE | CONTRIBUTING WRITER Through telling our story we reveal a continuum linking our people from hen it comes to Passover, the seder But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer generation to generation. However you celebrate, have a meaningful Passover. Wgets all the press. And for good rea- or starve. There are plenty of tasty, sustain- son — it is kind of the Super Bowl of holiday ing, healthy options that will keep you going meals. But there are a number of other meals until lunch while staying true to the rules. that must be consumed during the holiday Yogurt offers a great start toward a or we would get awfully hungry. solid breakfast; you can take it in a num- Today we are here to talk about Passover ber of directions from sweet and fruity to breakfasts. Taking chametz out of the “most vegetable-savory. Ditto “matzah scramble” important meal of the day” encourages — keep it super traditional with the stan- some creativity. For many of us, breakfast dard matzah brei, or be creative with tasty means toast, cereal, oatmeal, a granola bar, additions. And for this week, we say toast, muffins — basically all the things that we schmoast. Matzah is a swell substitute bed eschew during the observance of Passover. for mashed avocados, nut butters or jam.

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COPRID / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS IMAGES / GETTY / ISTOCK COPRID Empowering people YOGURT PARFAIT, SWEET to enjoy living longer. Serves 1 abandon the next week. This recipe suggests a layering of the This offers a basic framework, but you ingredients in a glass, which looks pretty can get as creative as you like — or as but requires some effort. I understand adventurous as your pantry permits. Swap that mornings can be hectic, and this out plain or fruit-flavored yogurt, add tastes just as delicious with all of the whatever fruits or nuts you have on hand. ingredients dumped in a bowl, mixed and I tend to avoid citrus fruits like oranges gobbled up in a hurry. and grapefruits here because the acidity can be a little harsh with the tang of the 2/3 cup vanilla yogurt yogurt, but if you like the combo, then 2/3 cup fresh or dried fruit — be my guest. berries, chopped apples, grapes, The decision on whether to add seeds raisins, dates, etc. presents a divide between Sephardi and 1/4 cup nuts — almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, Ashkenazi Jews. Kitniyot, which includes etc. and/or seeds such as sunflower, things like sunflower seeds, sesame seeds pumpkin, flaxseed, chia and legumes, are permitted among many 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup Sephardim, but not in the Ashkenazi tra- Sprinkle of cinnamon dition. Depending on your background and your family custom, use or don’t In a glass or parfait bowl, layer the ingredients, use them. starting with the 1/3-cup yogurt, 1/3-cup The nuts provide plenty of heft and fruit, half the nuts, a drizzle of honey and a crunch so if you avoid the seeds I sprinkle of cinnamon. Repeat, ending with a Learn more at SunHealth.org promise you won’t miss them. And sprinkle of nuts, cinnamon and honey and enjoy. you can dump them in with reckless SEE BREAKFAST, PAGE 14

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 13 SPECIAL SECTION BREAKFAST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 YOGURT PARFAIT, SAVORY Serves 1 this in a pretty glass, then just chuck it all in a bowl and dig in. I tend to gravitate toward sweeter fla- vors at breakfast, but my husband prefers 1/3 cup plain yogurt savory. I created this version for those of 1/3 cup assorted vegetables — you who have a palate similar to his. chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, The concept is the same as above: Use peppers, parsley what you have on hand and what you like. I omit the nuts in this version; to me, the Pinch salt/pepper texture and flavor of the nuts don’t quite 1 teaspoon best-quality olive oil marry with the veggies, but if you love nuts in this context, or if your tradition In a glass, layer 1/3-cup yogurt, 1/3-cup embraces seeds during Passover, then feel vegetables, a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle free to add them. of salt and pepper. Repeat, topping with a If you don’t feel like artfully arranging drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy.

YEARS20

Matzoh scramble MARGOEEDWARDS / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS MATZAH SCRAMBLE Serves 2 Heat the oil in a skillet and add the onions This version uses caramelized onions with the salt and pepper. Cook the onions over and goat cheese, but you can get as low heat until caramelized, about 15 minutes. creative (or plain) as you like. Tomato/ While the onions cook, whisk the eggs in olive/feta; cheddar/broccoli; provolone/ a medium-sized bowl, then break the matzah spinach; and mascarpone and fig are all into small pieces and add it to the eggs. Allow fair game. it to soak for a few minutes. Add the goat cheese — spoon it into the mixture in small 2 teaspoons oil 1/2 onion, coarsely chopped bits. Pinch salt/pepper When the onions are caramelized, add the 2 sheets matzah egg mixture to the skillet and scramble until 4 eggs cooked, about 2 minutes. 1/2 cup goat cheese Serve immediately. JN

14 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION

PASSOVER

Forget brisket and sponge cake: Feast on Sephardi food this Passover LINDA MOREL | CONTRIBUTING WRITER hing you ike many modern women, Michelle Azar Aaron juggles many balls. is a L She is a singer, actress and writer of her one-woman show, “From Baghdad to Brooklyn,” which explores her father’s childhood in Iraq and her Brooklyn-born W Ashkenazi mother. Azar Aaron has received awards for her work and has appeared in many television shows and musicals. Add rebbetzin to her list of credits. Her husband is Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills Senior Rabbi Jonathan Aaron. She is raising two musically talented teenage daughters. She is now juggling another ball — preparing for Passover. Because she’s drawn to her father’s life in Iraq, Sephardi recipes and customs are integral to her Passovers today. Her favorite charoset hails from Yemen. It’s infused with ginger and cayenne pepper, which impart spicy flavor, sweetened with dates and honey. She makes heuvos haminados, hard-boiled eggs, a must at Sephardi holiday celebrations. P “I put eggs and onion skins in the oven all night,” Azar Aaron said. “After they’re A cooled and dry, I write everyone’s name on an egg with a Sharpie. At seders, you S R crack your egg on someone else.” It’s a friendly game beloved at Sephardi Passovers. S VE “Our seders are interactive and playful,” she said. “They start in the guest house in O our backyard.” Scallions are used to symbolize the way Egyptians whipped Hebrew slaves. Everyone hits the person beside him with a scallion. The seder service and first courses occur in the guest house. “We then put on the sprinklers, so everyone gets a little wet running into the house,” she said. Just in time for the main course and dessert. She always bakes an orange date almond torte. “There’s lots of oranges in Sephardi cooking,” she says. “We finish by singing a Persian style of ‘Dayenu.’” “I’ve never touched the ground in Iraq, so it’s odd this attachment I have to my father’s homeland,” she said. But she is keeping the memory of Passover customs alive from a country where most Jews have fled.

A YEMENI CHAROSET | PAREVE ½ teaspoon of water. Cover the saucepan and Yield: about 2/3 cup heat over a medium flame for 1-2 minutes or until the water nearly evaporates. Watch This zesty charoset tastes best when carefully so the ginger doesn’t get scorched. made a day or two in advance. Reserve. Fit a food processor with a metal blade. Equipment: a food processor Cut the figs and dates into 2-3 pieces. Move them to the bowl of the food processor. Add 1 inch piece of ginger root the ginger. Grind the mixture until a sticky 6 dried calimyrna figs paste forms. Add the remaining ingredients 6 pitted dates and pulse the food processor on and off until 2 tablespoons sesame seeds all ingredients are well combined. 1 heaping tablespoon honey Remove the charoset with a spatula. Refrig- Pinch of cayenne pepper erate it in a container with a lid. It lasts three weeks or longer when refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving. Peel the ginger root. Dice it and then chop it. Move it to a small saucepan and add SEE SEPHARDI, PAGE 17

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 15 SPECIAL SECTION

SEPHARDI BEST WISHES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

FOR A HAPPY CHICKEN TAGINE WITH PRUNES AND ALMONDS | MEAT PASSOVER Yield: 8 servings

This tasty stew is typical of Moroccan Jewish cuisine. Because Sephardim eat rice during Passover, this dish is often served with rice.

Equipment: a Dutch oven

1 cup blanched, slivered almonds (480) 409-5924 1½ inches of ginger root BARTONSPECTORWEALTH.COM 1 onion 2 tablespoons olive oil, or more if needed Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Stratos Wealth Partners, Ltd., a registered investment advisor. Stratos Wealth Partners 8 bone-in chicken thighs and Barton Spector Wealth Strategies are separate entities from LPL Financial. Kosher salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste 1½ cups chicken broth, or more if needed 1-2 cinnamon sticks 2 cups pitted prunes Happy 1 heaping tablespoon honey Optional: Rice, prepared according to package Pass  ! directions for 8 servings. MATCHING Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cover a baking sheet YOUR LIVING with aluminum foil. Scatter the almonds on the foil, mak- ing sure they don’t overlap. Place the almonds in the oven SPACE TO and bake until golden and fragrant. Watch carefully as YOUR LIFESTYLE almonds burn easily. Remove the almonds from the oven and bring them to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container at ANNAPUSTYNNIKOVA / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS room temperature for up to two days before preparing the tagine. Return the ginger, onion and chicken to the Dutch oven. Pour in the Peel the ginger root. Dice it and then chop it fine. Chop the onion chicken broth. Add the cinnamon. Cover the Dutch oven. Over a low Jodi Geiger – 602-321-4149 Ov 30 ye s into small pieces. Drizzle oil into the Dutch oven. Place it over a flame, simmer the chicken for 30 minutes. Add the prunes and honey, Mitchell Geiger – 480-236-5934 of p tn ship in medium flame until the oil is warm, about 1 minute. Sauté the ginger stirring to incorporate. If they are not covered with liquid, add more Email: [email protected] l e & business and onion, stirring often, until it is fragrant, about 2 minutes. With a chicken broth a tablespoon at a time. Cover the Dutch oven again. www.thegeigers-azhomesales.com slotted spoon, remove the ginger and onion and place it temporarily Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the prunes are tender and the on a plate. chicken is cooked through. Check every few minutes to see if the broth Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper. Move the chicken to the is evaporating. Add more, if needed. This can be made to this point Dutch oven in two batches. Add more oil if needed. Sauté until golden two days ahead, refrigerated and reheated over a low flame. brown on all sides. Turn off the flame. With tongs, move the chicken Place the rice in a mound in the center of a large deep platter, one to a platter. Let the oil and chicken fat cool to room temperature. Pour with a generous rim. Using tongs, place the chicken thighs around off as much as possible. Some oil will remain. the rice. Spoon the broth and prunes over the chicken. Sprinkle the Meanwhile, start making the rice, if using. almonds over the chicken and rice. Serve immediately. THANK YOU To our readers for supporting HAPPY Jewish News’ advertisers!

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16 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION First night Wednesday April 8th, 2020 HEUVOS HAMINADOS | PAREVE not too close to heating elements. Preheat the (LONG COOKED EGGS) oven to 225 degrees. Yield: 12 eggs Scatter half of the onion skins into the pot. Place 6 eggs on top of them. Scatter another Dinner Served at all Sephardi celebrations, third of the onion skins into the pot, followed these creamy textured eggs are superior by the remaining 6 eggs. Place the remaining Full Basic Individual in flavor to hard-boiled eggs. onion skins on top. Pour in enough water to TRADITIONAL MEAL DINNER MEALS cover the mixture by 4 inches. Don’t worry if $279 Serves 8 $235 Serves 8 $34.95 Each Equipment: a large stainless steel or the eggs and onion skins shift. Drizzle on the (min. 6 people for other stain-resistant pot that can go on oil, which will keep the water from evaporating takeout pre-orders) the stovetop and inside the oven. It during cooking. STARTER ENTREE VEGETABLE Served with Matzo Plate should come with a tight-fitting lid. All Dinners Include: & Charoses Kosher Cover the pot and bring it to a simmering SOUP POTATO DESSERT Wine or Grape Juice boil. Remove it from the heat for 2 minutes. 1-2 cups of onion skins, gathered from Place the pot inside the oven for 8 hours. PICK UP YOUR PASSOVER DINNER TO-GO MENU onions on hand, from friends Remove the eggs carefully with a slotted spoon FOR YOUR CELEBRATION AT HOME TOO! or from food stores. Red onion skins and place them on paper towels to dry. The eggs are advantageous as they turn will be brown or reddish brown, representing the eggs a brilliant color. Passover’s roasted egg. 12 eggs Serve the eggs warm, at room temperature 1/4 cup vegetable oil or refrigerate until serving. The whites will be CurbsidePICKUP Place a shelf on a middle rung of the oven, so tinged sepia brown. To reheat, boil them for that the pot you’ve chosen will be centered and 3-5 minutes. Call ahead for curbside pickup and store hours. ORANGE DATE Pour off the water and dry the oranges with paper towels. Cut the oranges into 8 pieces, GLENDALE TEMPE PV MALL SCOTTSDALE CHANDLER ALMOND TORTE | PAREVE 623-344-3104 480-557-0700 602-710-2910 480-860-0475 480-398-3008 Yield: Serves 8 including their skin. Remove any coarse pith and all the seeds. Reserve. View Passover menus at chompies.com/passover-menu/ Typical of North African Jewish cuisine, Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Coat the this moist cake is steeped in the fragrance springform pan generously with oil. Sprinkle a of refreshing oranges. teaspoon or so of sugar into the pan and shake it to coat as evenly as possible. Discard any excess sugar. Reserve. Equipment: A food processor, a 9 1/2-inch Assemble the food processor again, using the springform pan, and an electric hand mixer metal blade. Cut the dates into 4 pieces and then chop them. Move them to the food processor 1 cups blanched slivered almonds bowl. Add the orange pieces, including the peel. 1 ½ cup sugar, plus more for dusting Grind the pieces until a somewhat-coarse puree 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon forms. Reserve. 2 large navel oranges with flawless skin Take 2 eggs and separate the yolks from the Vegetable oil for coating whites. Place the egg whites and ¼ cup sugar 1/2 cup pitted dates, preferably medjool into a medium-sized bowl. Using an electric 6 large eggs hand mixer, beat until stiff, shiny peaks form. Do not overbeat or the egg whites turn watery. Fit a food processor with the metal blade. Place Reserve. the almonds and ¼-cup sugar in the bowl of Add the 4 whole eggs, the 2 reserved egg the food processor. Grind the nuts for about yolks, and the remaining sugar into a large 30 seconds. Then pulse on and off until the mixing bowl. With the electric hand mixer, mixture resembles coarse sand. Sprinkle in the beat until the mixture turns airy and light. Be cinnamon and pulse briefly, until combined. patient, as this takes several minutes. Beat in the Move the nut mixture to a bowl and reserve. orange-date mixture and the almond mixture Clean the food processor parts. until well combined. Fold in the beaten egg Wash the oranges with a little liquid soap and whites and combine on the mixer’s low setting rinse well. Move the oranges to a medium-large until no trace of the egg whites remain. Using a saucepan. Cover them with water. Place the lid spatula, move the mixture to the prepared pan. on the pan and bring the water to a boil over Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the torte is a medium flame. Turn the flame to low and lightly browned and the center springs back simmer the oranges for about 40 minutes, or when gently tapped with a forefinger. Cool to until softened in the center. Add more water, room temperature. Gently run a knife around if necessary. Discard the cooking water. the edge of the cake to separate it from the pan Add cold water and a couple of ice cubes to before releasing the spring. Serve immediately the saucepan to let the oranges cool through. or wrap it well in foil and serve the next day. JN

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 17 HEADLINES MENTAL HEALTH a Jewish Renewal group in Phoenix, said CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 that “mental health and spiritual health are absolutely connected.” She suggested that things themselves as well. dealing with anxiety in a way that’s spiritually REACH HIGHLY EDUCATED, AFFLUENT READERS IN THE VALLEY Levi finds comfort in nature and finds him- based is helpful. self going to the desert, hiking and meditating. Silver spoke of one client who attends Website Print E-Blast Social Media “That keeps me cleaning out and recharging.” Chabad and has received significant support Page Views Readership Subscribers Followers Freilich said that something as simple as from them because they call and check up 40,000 15,000 4,500 7,152 breathing is important. She explained that on him, making him feel important. But people who have experienced trauma often he acknowledges for a lot of Jewish people, react by automatically holding their breath, religion isn’t their first line of support. and right now when we’re trying to keep our Though that may be, Freilich said, “it does Upcoming Special Sections respiratory systems safe and protected, it’s take an element of faith and awareness of the important that they fight that instinct. larger community to realize that things can Passover She said that walking slowly, letting your be lived through that do not feel livable in April 3 feet touch the ground, breathing into your the moment.” whole body while getting energy down to the ‘Time for the world to develop its soul of the feet where it connects to the earth Show your support of empathy muscle’ the Jewish community will be helpful. Freilich knows that all of this is subject by wishing them a Happy Mental and spiritual health are to change and that what we face is a great Passover! This issue will connected unknown. But, she said, “It’s also a chance for have an additional 2,000 Levi, who belongs to Ahavas Torah and people to take really good care of themselves,” circulation to households Makor in Scottsdale, said that it is important and that in itself is “a gift to the world. People in targeted growth areas. to focus in on gratitude and build spiritual are reaching out to each other.” connections. He is reminded that to think the “What I would hope for is that there would coronavirus or any disease runs the world, “is be connectedness and compassion for your antithetical to Jewish tradition.” fellow beings rather than a grab-it-for-yourself Freilich, who is part of Ruach Hamidbar, attitude,” she said. JN Senior Lifestyle April 3 YOU SHOULD KNOW You’ll be a science nerd and a jock? CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 Yes. There’s not a lot of athletes that From home health aides are in the sciences, and I like STEM and and financial planners to West Coast Conference. At the very last took a lot of STEM in high school. I’ve realtors, Senior Lifestyle tournament of my career, Colorado con- known since fourth grade I wanted to go to is the perfect venue to tacted my coaches and said they loved me, medical school. showcase your products and they contacted me shortly after. and services for older I took my visit in December and I only Do you think you’ll want to join any Jewish Phoenix area took two schools, Colorado and Cornell. I Jewish groups on campus once you get residents. just loved CU. I loved it there, and I knew there? it was perfect. That’s not a typical recruiting I do. I was looking into Jewish orga- process to start that late, but it worked out in nizations and clubs at CU. They have a the end. I’m really grateful for that. pretty big Jewish population there which is great for someone coming from out What’s the significance of your jersey Camp & of state and not knowing anyone that’s number? going there except my basketball team. I’m School Guide My older brother loved watching the going to look into it and try to join some April 3 Phoenix Suns and, in particular, Steve Nash. He wore No. 13, so when he started my brother Jewish clubs and maybe look into going to Hillel for some of the holidays since Parents are making wore No. 13. When it was time to decide my I’ll be pretty busy. decisions for next summer jersey number, I wanted to be just like him but and next year now! not make it obvious. So I flipped the numbers You said you’ll be the only Jewish player Showcase your offerings and I was No. 31. I’ve been No. 31 every year on your team. How do you feel about to Jewish News readers. of middle school and high school up to this past that? year. Unfortunately, I’m not going to wear that I think it’s cool. Some people look at it number in college. I’m going to wear No. 44. as a negative, but I look at it as a positive. 31+13 is 44. At Colorado Nos. 31 and 13 were One, it makes me unique. A lot of bas- JEWISHAZ.COM both taken, and I wanted to keep the same idea ketball players are the same, and it sets me so I put them together. apart from everyone else. I can represent Contact your sales consultant to schedule What will you be studying at CU? the Jewish basketball community through your advertising at 602-616-0697, Outside of basketball I will be studying what I do on the court. And I can hope- [email protected] what’s called integrated physiology on the fully inspire other Jewish female basketball pre-med track. players to pursue their dreams. JN

18 MARCH 27, 2020 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM MILESTONES Edward (Ed) Jay Finger passed away at home on BIRTH March 9, 2020 at the age of 74. His wife, children, EMMA ROSE FEINMAN grandchildren, special friend Pepa and beloved Emma Rose Feinman was born dog Chance were by his side. Ed was born and March 8, 2020. She is the daughter of raised in Brooklyn, New York. He attended Rebecca and Matt Feinman of Phoenix. American International College in Springfield, Grandparents are Jeff and Linda Massachusetts where he received his Bachelor Schotz of Phoenix; and Robyn and or Arts in economics. He moved to Arizona with Michael Feinman of Agoura Hills, his wife, Gale in 1972. Together they built a very California. Emma has one sibling, successful landscape construction business. Ed Noah, 3. moved and expanded the business to Las Vegas in 1988. He retired in 2013 to spend more time with his wife, children, grandchildren and Chance in Arizona and travel as much as possible with Gale. Aside from his family and friends, he found his greatest love on the ocean – BIRTH sport fishing. It was a love that began as a child for him and he passed that AXEL KINGSTON SOLOMON love onto his two sons. Axel Kingston Solomon was born Ed lived large in all that he did – from his big and genuine smile and laugh on March 11, 2020, to Demi and Rich – to his generous heart and soul. He was always willing and eager to lend a Solomon in Scottsdale. helping hand wherever he could. Axel has one sibling, Jackson Thor Solomon, 2. He will be missed sorely by all who had the privilege to know him. Rich Solomon is the general manager Ed is preceded in death by his mother, Helen and sister, Joan. He is survived of the Jewish News. by his beloved and devoted wife Gale of 49 years, his children Josh (Nicole) and Arin and 5 grandchildren, Chloe, Landan, Noah, Isaac and Rhett. Contributions in Ed’s memory are suggested to Hospice of the Valley and East Coast Humane Society.

ENGAGEMENT DANIELLE MENDELSON AND CHASE SCHOTZ – FOR SALE – Danielle Mendelson and Chase Schotz of Scottsdale have announced Come socialize MT SINAI their engagement. Parents of the bride-to-be are Shelly with us CEMETERY and Edward Mendelson of Dallas, Companion Space in Ruth Section Texas. Parents of the groom-to-be are jewishaz.com Linda and Jeff Schotz of Phoenix. End Plot • Facing East Danielle graduated from Arizona jewishaz.wordpress.com State University in 2017. She works in facebook.com/JewishAZ BELOW TODAY’S property management. Chase gradu- ated from Arizona State University twitter.com/phxjnews MARKET VALUE! in 2015. He works in real estate instagram.com/phxjnews All Offers Entertained investments. The wedding will take place on Oct. pinterest.com/jewishaz Includes Companion Monument 18, 2020, in San Diego, California. Call 602-478-0547

OBITUARY SHARE YOUR JOYCE REILIN COHEN Joyce Reilin Cohen, 83, died March 10, 2020. She was born in Rochester, New ENGAGEMENT, WEDDING, York, and lived in Phoenix. BIRTH, BAR/BAT-MITZVAH She is survived by her daughters, Susan Mallery, Mindy Greenberg and Lisa ANNOUNCEMENT AND ANY Dubnow; her son, Michael Cohen; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. OTHER SIMCHA ON BOTH Joyce was an active member and contributor to Beth El Congregation, participating JEWISHAZ.COM AND THE in various chavurah groups. She was also a lover of the arts — avidly supporting and attending productions at the Phoenix Theatre Company, Herberger Theater Center, WEEKLY JEWISH NEWS... Phoenix Symphony, Arizona Opera and Phoenix Art Museum. FOR FREE. Services were held at Beth El Congregation. JEWISHAZ.COM Arrangements by Sinai Mortuary of Arizona. JN

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS MARCH 27, 2020 19 Leave the Lasting Legacy of Jewish Journalism

HEADLINES | 4 SPECIAL SECTION | B1 Make a charitable donation to Jewish News and help HONORING VETS Jewish War Veterans Post BAR/BAT BREAKDOWN support Jewish community journalism. 619 throws a baby shower for What's hot and what's not in pregnant servicewomen the festive, harried realm of bar and bat mitzvahs in 2019 Recent gifts helped support the kind of reporting that has consistently won the paper many honors, including multiple awards from the American Jewish Press NOVEMBER 15, 2019 | CHESHVAN 17, 5780 | VOLUME 72, NUMBER 4

Association, and the kind of critical community coverage Coyotes’ CEO to $1.50 that you’ve come to expect from the Jewish News. receive ADL Torch Temple Chai tackles problem of Liberty Award of drug addiction | JENNIFER MARSHALL | CONTRIBUTING WRITER ELLEN O’BRIEN STAFF WRITER

DL Arizona is gearing up for its annual Torch of Liberty t Temple Chai, Rabbi Bonnie Koppell Award ceremony, its flagship fundraising event to recog- Ahas helped families struggling with the By making the Jewish News a benefi ciary of your will, A threat of drug addiction, and she’s seen the nize and reward those who are doing the most good for the community. tragic consequences of substance abuse. “The Torch of Liberty is our annual event where we honor “We regularly, in our own little Temple trust, retirement account or life insurance policy, you extraordinary individuals who exemplify the principles of the Chai family, have had multiple losses from ADL,” said Carlos Galindo-Elvira, ADL Arizona regional direc- overdoses,” Koppell said. “I don’t imagine tor. “Many of the individuals who we honor have shown civic we’re the only ones.” will be creating a philanthropic legacy that will help engagement, community involvement and a commitment to unite On Nov. 19, as part of its ongoing efforts people of all races, religions and ethnic backgrounds.” to help people struggling with addiction, the Shalom Center at Temple Chai is This year’s Torch of Liberty honoree is Ahron Cohen, the sustain the vibrant voice of Jewish Arizona. Whether president and CEO of the Arizona Coyotes. partnering with the Jewish Addiction Awareness Network and Jewish Family & “Ahron possesses an incredible biography that really aligns and matches that of the ADL,” Galindo-Elvira said. “He’s such a nice you read us in print or online, please help us continue person, and it’s been a pleasure working with him.” SEE ADDICTION, PAGE 3 “I’m incredibly honored and blessed to be receiving this PHOTO BY ELLEN O’BRIEN award,” Cohen said. “I’ve known some of the people who’ve our commitment to bringing you the local Jewish news come before me and won this. They’re icons of this community and people I deeply respect, such as Jerry Colangelo, David Bodney, ASU President Michael Crow, the late Senator John A sweet business venture McCain and the Arizona Diamondbacks CEO Derrick Hall.” our community counts on. When Mark Portnoy moved from Michigan to Arizona, he The Torch of Liberty Award, which is held every autumn, brought his taste for customized, boutique choclates with him. is deviating from its usual structure for 2019. According to The owner of Gayle's Chocolates in Cottonwood, which opened in June, talks recipes and family business this this issue. Go to Page 16 for more.

SEE ADL, PAGE 2 Contributions to the Jewish News, a 501(c)(3) PHOTO BY COURTNEY WORDEN KEEP YOUR EYE ON organization, are tax deductible. Seek independent jewishaz.com professional legal advice before making any change

NATIONAL to your plans. Troops to remain in Syria INTERNATIONAL Men sentenced for beating of rabbi ISRAEL ‘Tomb of the Kings’ opens to the public

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