THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947 NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 | HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET 5781

The Abraham Accords • The Emotional Pandemic of 2020 • Share Your Flame and Make a Difference • Supporting One of the Lost Tribes During a Pandemic • My Jewish Long Beach Story • Name Three Positives • Who Am I? jewishlongbeach.org VOL. 74 NO. 2 INSIDE

THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947 Edie Brodsky Jewish Long Beach President Zachary Benjamin Jewish Long Beach Chief Executive Officer Carol A. Beckerman Editorial Coordinator 7 JEWISH LONG BEACH EMPOWERING GREATER LONG BEACH AND WEST ORANGE COUNTY SINCE 1948 Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791

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@jewishlongbeach INSIDE CORPORATE SPONSORS @jewishlongbeach Become a Corporate Partner Today. Contact 562-426-7601 ext. 1008. 4 Share Your Flame to Make a Difference jewishlongbeach.org Isaac Waksul believes that: “You can’t take it with you, so you should create a situation that will help you do well and leave a legacy.” 5 Year-end Giving in 2020 Can Still Be a Win-Win for You and Editorial & Advertising Your Charity 562.426.7601 x1006 There are many ways to use current and deferred assets to help the [email protected] causes you care deeply about. AD & COPY DEADLINE 6 Supporting One of the Lost Tribes During a Pandemic Donor support through the COVID-19 Relief Fund allowed Jewish Long Jan/Feb 2021 deadline: Beach to provide a grant to Degel Menashe in , enabling the nonprofit December 7, 2020 to assist 500 B’nei Menashe families in facing food insecurity. ISSN# 1525- 6847 7 My Jewish Long Beach Story – Aaron Kern, MD My “Jewish Long Beach” story began when Leslie and I joined the 1999 Federation trip to Israel. Long Beach Area Chamber 8 The Emotional Pandemic of 2020: “Choose Life!” of Commerce Member The detritus from the last six months of trauma is incalculable – medically, Donald J. Kaiser socially, financially, and emotionally. Investment Management A Registered Investment Advisor 9 Name Three Positives The appearance of product Are you able to begin and end your days by naming three positives? or establishment advertising 9 Who Am I? in the Jewish Community Identity confusion is very common with many immigrants and Chronicle does not constitute specifically . an endorsement of kashruth. Opinions printed in the Jewish 10 Community News Community Chronicle do not necessarily reflect those 11 Alpert Jewish Community Center of the Jewish Long Beach. The publication of a paid The Hebrew Academy – Synchronous Education Goes Live 12 political advertisement does 13 Dedicated Leadership Keeps Beach Hillel Strong not constitute endorsement of any candidate, political 14 Tributes party or political position by Jewish Long Beach or any 15 In Memoriam employee.

Cover photo: SHABBAT CANDLELIGHTING ©2020 Eliyahu Yosef Parypa-Shutterstock November 6 4:36 pm November 20 4:28 pm December 4 4:25 pm December 18 4:28 pm Candlesticks ©2020 eezy.com November 13 4:31 pm November 27 4:26 pm December 11 4:26 pm December 25 4:32 pm Chronicle ©2020 Jewish Long Beach All Rights Reserved.

2 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 CONVERSATIONS JEWISH LONG BEACH From the CEO’S Desk – The Abraham Accords Zachary Benjamin | Chief Executive Officer, Jewish Long Beach As a historically tempestuous developed Sunni states and Iran, a Shiite theocracy, to exist largely obsolete and irrelevant. election season hits its are rooted in fundamental differences in their The recent moves in this diplomatic chess match crescendo here in the United interpretations of how Islam should be studied have generated a number of intriguing questions. For States, an intriguing, more and practiced. Perhaps ironically, this Muslim- instance, will Qatar, Iran’s closest Arab ally, double positive geopolitical scenario world domestic dispute has created conditions in down on its alignment with Tehran and Hamas, is playing itself out across which the Arabs’ need to mitigate Iranian influence or will it follow the threat of geographic isolation the Middle East. Throughout now supersedes their cultural proclivity to act as a toward warmer relations with its Arab neighbors its seven-plus decades of political protector of the stateless Palestinians. Saudi and Israel, thus distancing itself from the Iranian existence, Israel has fought Arabia and its neighboring Arab Gulf states now find Mullahs? Will Europe continue to use the increasingly Zachary Benjamin to secure its seat at the table themselves under a similar brand of existential threat dubious specter of illegitimacy to pressure Israel into of nation-states. Rejected at birth by its neighbors to that which Israel has so successfully held at bay acquiescing to Palestinian statehood demands, or will and eyed with caution by its European allies, Israel for the better part of a century. Furthermore, Israel the European Union (E.U.) take a more egalitarian tact has relied on its own innovative spirit and military and the Gulf states share a common geopolitical as the Arab perspective on the issue shifts? prowess, as well as the raw survival instinct of the boogeyman in Iran, which despite crippling economic The question of how to achieve Palestinian statehood Jewish people and the political protection of the sanctions from the West, has managed to gain an in a manner that enhances regional security also still United States, to thrive in a region characterized by begs for a just solution. However, with the Arab world perpetual sectarian turbulence. . . . the Abraham Accords and the geopolitical appearing to align with Israel, perhaps the Israelis will Israel’s strengths in the military, intelligence, shifts they represent are to be unequivocally finally have partners with whom to blaze a pragmatic economic, and scientific sectors—as well as its welcomed by us as Jews, regardless of domestic trail to an agreement for a lasting peace. creation of a literal agricultural oasis in one of political aliation and how we vote in the 2020 All of us who are committed to the long-term the world’s harshest desert ecosystems—have U.S. elections. welfare of the Jewish people understand that Israel drawn the interest of other regional actors, many must remain a steadfast, secure bulwark against the of whom have sought to enhance their own security increasingly disruptive foothold on the Arabian deadly persecution of Jews, wherever they may reside. and economic infrastructure through clandestine Peninsula and in the Eastern Mediterranean. Should Israel ever cease to exist, global Jewry would relationships with the Jewish state. Until now, most This perfect storm of shared need for self- likely eventually follow in disintegrating. Thus, the of these countries have maintained hostile public preservation has yielded the Abraham Accords, a Abraham Accords and the geopolitical shifts they postures toward Israel, denying its right to exist and blockbuster agreement between Israel and Arab represent are to be unequivocally welcomed by us as refusing to establish normal diplomatic or trade ties. League members the United Arab Emirates and Jews, regardless of domestic political affiliation and However, recent decades have seen a sea change Bahrain to establish normal diplomatic and economic how we may plan to vote in the 2020 U.S. elections. in the security priorities of the Arab, largely Sunni relations, doubling the number of Arab states with Yes, the accords were brokered by the White House, Muslim Persian Gulf states, which have traditionally which Israel now enjoys formal ties. Perhaps just but we should resist any temptation to view them stood as a bloc in solidarity with the Palestinian as remarkable as the accords themselves is the fact through a partisan political lens. The reality is that cause, thus denying themselves the benefit of fully- that despite pleas from the Palestinian Authority to regional security conditions necessitated an Arab- developed military-industrial alliances with Israel. condemn the agreement, the Arab League, which has Israeli détente. Were a different U.S. administration Iran and its surrogate in the Levant, Hezbollah, have historically defended the interests of the Palestinians, in place, Israel and its new Arab allies would still have emerged as clear and present threats to the stability refused to comment, tacitly endorsing this seismic established these ties, whether brokered publicly by of the oil-rich Gulf states, which have observed with regional realignment. the U.S., Egypt, Jordan, or the EU. increasing alarm the havoc that Iran has wrought The accords represent not only an enhanced As we continue into 5781 and look toward the secular in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. These proxy battles firewall against Iranian aggression, but also the New Year, we would be wise to celebrate that which comprising the warming war of wills between Iran relegation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to the enhances the ability of the Jewish people to continue and Saudi Arabia have crept closer to Saudi, Emirati, margins of the regional priority list. Meanwhile, each to thrive from generation to generation. Furthermore, and Bahraini shores and have levied increasing of these agreements is an anchor for Israel in the let us relish this unprecedented opportunity to build demands on Gulf-state defense resources. bedrock of the international community, rendering bridges with other Semitic peoples, rooted in goodwill The deep and lethal rift between the largely well- the conversation surrounding its legitimacy and right and a mutual commitment to tikkun olam.

Join Jewish Long Beach and the Alpert Jewish Community Center on “At the heart of Wednesday, December 2 at 5:00 pm what it means to be a Jew is to for a FREE virtual Chanukah cooking demonstration. Learn how to make ask questions.” Apple Shrub, Abe Fisher’s Potato Latkes, Roman Artichokes with Arugula and Olive Oil, Poached Salmon, and Sfenj with Cinnamon and Sugar with Michael Solomonov, executive chef Sandy and co-owner of Zahav, the 2019 James Eisenberg Sasso Beard Foundation award winner for Outstanding Restaurant. Sit back, relax, The Chronicle welcomes your letters to the editor, and don’t forget to take notes. articles and opinion pieces. Please send your Pulitzer- worthy materials to [email protected]. Register for this free cooking demo via jewishlongbeach.org/cooking-demo. We cannot guarantee if, or when, they will be published. Submissions may be edited as needed.

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 3 JEWISH LONG BEACH LEAVING A LEGACY Share Your Flame to Make a Difference Sharon Kenigsberg | Director of Community Development, Jewish Long Beach

Just as a person lights one candle from another and the original flame is not diminished, so too, we are never lessened when we pass on our internal “flame” to another person. Numbers Rabbah 13:19 Most of us have been shaped by early experiences which led him to where that influence how we approach the world. For Isaac he got involved with stage managing, Waksul his internal flame is a passion for leaving a lighting and set design. This, in turn, legacy that will provide educational programs, tools led him to become the manager of and technologies that will impact young children the Atlanta Ballet for three years, as from 0-5 years of age. Isaac attributes his lifelong well as other work with theatre, dance drive for working hard and achieving success to and music staging. He also invented events in his early years. He believes the years from equipment for the stage. Isaac was 0-5 are the most impressionable and that excellent always inventing things – resulting in educational opportunities during those years lay the the ownership of five patents! seeds for success later in life. Isaac again asserts that his instinct Isaac’s story starts in Israel, where he was born. to have no fear and to trust his own His mother was from Poland and her entire family abilities had to come from somewhere perished in the Holocaust except for one sister in deep inside that was ingrained in America. Some family circumstances necessitated him as a child. He was willing to take Isaac, at age 15, coming alone on a boat to the United risks and so his career continued in States to live with his aunt and uncle in Brooklyn. Hollywood where he worked on several Photography by Arnold Zigman. The journey took two weeks and Isaac remembers movies for television. While movie production did pulling into New York Harbor during a huge snow not quite suit him, he then ventured into the world of reading programs; educational and playground storm. He had never seen snow in his life. This was corporate event production, eventually forming his equipment; funding of educational technologies; only the first of the challenges he would face in his own company, Waksul Associates Inc. This creative parent education, and arts and culture education. new environment. agency produced large-scale innovative projects for Special priorities may include at-risk and financially Isaac was enrolled in Lincoln High in Brooklyn. the likes of Apple and IBM. Where did this success challenged students and those with special needs. Not knowing a word of English, it would have been come from? According to Isaac, it “very likely molded Isaac’s wish is that grants from this fund will be easy to hang out with the many Israelis at school, during his 0 to 5 year experiences.” broadly distributed to have the most impact. speaking a language with which he was familiar. But Now retired from his company, Isaac wants to Leaving a legacy, no matter what size, is important in his youthful wisdom he chose the harder route, give back to the community. He shared, “My life has to the future of our community. Jewish Long Beach pursuing the academic track in high school which he been lucky. The world has given me a lot. Goodness can partner with you to develop your own unique amazingly was able to finish in two and a half years. came to me and I want others to have the same plan. Isaac cares about Jewish philosophy and is Isaac is convinced that his inner drive came from opportunities.” proud to be both Israeli and Jewish. He reflected, “You “something right” in his early childhood. To that end, Isaac plans to leave a legacy gift that can’t take it with you so you should create a situation After graduating from high school, Isaac went will fund the Waksul Educational Endowment that will help you do well and leave a legacy.” to State University of New York/Buffalo to study through Jewish Long Beach. This Endowment will Our community thanks Isaac for sharing his Industrial Arts. It was there that he was introduced bring together educational professionals to develop internal flame. to theatre - it changed his life. It was Isaac’s desire to programs that will impact young children up to age be open and try new things, ideas and experiences, 5. Programs could include parent/teacher training;

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4 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 PLANNED GIVING JEWISH LONG BEACH Year-end Giving in 2020 Can Still Be a Win-Win for You and Your Charity Sharon Kenigsberg | Director of Community Development, Jewish Long Beach

Open a Donor Advised Philanthropic Fund (DAPF) Do you give to multiple L’dor charities over the course of a year? Would you be interested 2020It has been said in many ways, but no matter how V’dor in having one convenient way you phrase it, 2020 has been a very tumultuous to give to all your charities? If so, then a Donor year. However, for many, the year-end is still an Advised Philanthropic Fund (DAPF) may be for you. opportune time to consider financial and tax By opening a DAPF at Jewish Long Beach before planning strategies. As the laws change each year, it December 31, you will be able to receive a charitable is important to check with your advisors to review tax-deduction this year. your investment portfolio and consider tax, financial A DAPF allows you the flexibility of opening and charitable giving strategies before December 31. the fund in one year and then using this fund to There are many ways to use current and deferred recommend distributions to any IRS approved assets to help the causes you care deeply about. nonprofit organization when it is convenient for Giving a gift through Jewish Long Beach allows you to you. If you write multiple checks to several nonprofit designate gifts for multiple charitable organizations. organizations over the course of a year, then a DAPF A few strategies appear below. allows you to centralize your charitable dollars into one account. Your personal DAPF is established by making a The CARES Act and minimum contribution of $2,000 in cash or securities to Jewish Long Beach. Additional contributions of IRA Distributions Whether you are starting a family of your The CARES Act enacted to any amount can be made at any time and are also tax deductible. Many donors choose to fund their DAPF own or newly retired, you can provide a provide COVID-19 relief contains vibrant future for generations to come. A a provision that enables the with long-term appreciated securities. legacy gift can help safeguard your values current deduction of up to 100 percent of adjusted gross income and sustain the programs and organizations for cash gifts to charity (other that are most meaningful to you and your than donor-advised funds, supporting organizations, Make an Annual Gift loved ones. and private foundations). Individuals considering The challenges of 2020 mean that more than ever, your annual Planning a bequest with Jewish Long Beach large cash donations may find this one-year lifting is easy and may provide tax benefits for your of the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) limitation to gift allows us to help others. For estate. There is no wrong stage in your life to be beneficial. The new age for being forced to take instance, a gift to Jewish Long a Required Minimum Distribution payments from Beach provides, through our make provisions designed to impact the IRA’s, 403b, 401k and 457 plans is now 72. However, Impact Grants, an essential safety future of our community. the Qualified Charitable Deduction is still available net of services. From vital educational resources and from the age of 70 ½ and is an excellent way to remove support for the community and organizations that IRA assets from your estate if you are charitably need it most during these trying times. inclined. Many donors have used the IRA charitable Invest in what rollover to transfer funds from their retirement accounts directly to qualified public charities. We are Here to Help you believe in. Whatever type of gift or Gifts of Appreciated whatever organization(s) you Start planning your future and Jewish legacy choose to support, the Jewish today. Stocks and Securities Long Beach professional staff Ask us about: Bequests, donation of With the possibility (post- is available to help. Through election) of a substantial our free personalized donor appreciated securities, donor advised increase in the capital gains tax services we will work with you funds, endowments, as well as gifts in kind. rate, clients with appreciated and your professional advisors to help you meet assets may want to consider your charitable goals. For questions or to schedule selling before year-end in an appointment please call Sharon Kenigsberg order to lock in more favorable tax rates. Another at (562) 426-7601 ext. 1008 or email sharonk@ option is to consider donating those appreciated jewishlongbeach.org. JEWISH assets to charity to take advantage of the larger LONG BEACH EMPOWERING GREATER LONG BEACH deduction based on the fair market value of the AND WEST ORANGE COUNTY SINCE 1948 asset at the contribution date, rather than selling the Disclaimer: Much of the information in this article Sharon Kenigsberg asset, paying capital gains taxes that might be due comes from the Jewish Federations of North America and then contributing the proceeds. (JFNA). JFNA and Jewish Long Beach do not provide 562.426.7601 ext. 1008 If you are interested in gifting stocks for charitable tax advice. Please consult with your professional [email protected] purposes, Jewish Long Beach can help you arrange a advisor before taking any action. direct transfer into our brokerage account. Photograph copyright 2016 Jonathan Levine/JFNA

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 5 JEWISH LONG BEACH IMPACT REPORT

Supporting One of the Lost Tribes During a Pandemic Melanie Edwards | Manager of Marketing and Outreach, Jewish Long Beach

In March 2020, as the world struggled to deal with In an interview, Halkin explained that for the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of years, this community has preserved Jewish Long Beach quickly responded. The goal ancient Israelite traditions in India without having was to meet the needs of communities both locally clear knowledge of their origin. In the wake of the and across the world through the newly established British colonial army, Halkin added, when Christian COVID-19 Relief Fund. One such community was the missionaries arrived in Northeast India in the early B’nei Menashe in Northeast India. 1900s, many of the inhabitants became Christianized. This group has been severely impacted by the As they learned more about the Bible, they began to pandemic, leaving many unemployed, lacking both recognize many of the stories, folktales and songs food security and access to government welfare that had similar parallels to the traditions passed programs that other more developed countries have down by their ancestors in their pre-Christian tribal religion. Beginning in the 1970s, as the belief of their Israelite heritage spread, a small group decided to live Jewishly and adopted an Orthodox Jewish way of life. They did so with the help of Rabbi Eliyahu Avichail, a rabbi dedicated to searching for possible descendants of the Lost Tribes and facilitating their return to their ancient roots. Then in the 1990s, after a long exile, small groups of the B’nei Menashe community started their return home to Israel. The transition from a Third World country like India to a modernized and highly developed society in Israel has presented significant challenges. “The first B’nei Menashe to arrive in Israel thought they were coming to a biblical country,” says Halkin, who in 2017 helped initiate an oral history project that led to the establishment with more than 15 metric tons (nearly 35,000 of Degel Menashe. “Since then, pounds) of their daily staple of rice. they’ve been exposed to the It is hoped that these families will be able to fulfill realities and complexities of their dream of immigrating to Israel in the near Israeli life, but they still have an future. “The B’nei Menashe story,” Halkin says, “is a enormous sense of coming home fabulous episode in . The survival of after 3,000 years of exile. As there remnants of a biblical tribe and its memories for the are no in India, the first 3,000 years in which it lived in isolation from the rest thing they have to do in Israel of the Jewish people is is undergo a Jewish conversion, a remarkable tribute which itself is a difficult process,” to the tenacity of our Halkin added. Many B’nei people’s identity, as is provided their citizens. Of the approximately 10,000 Menashe also arrive to Israel lacking the tools, skills the B’nei Menashe’s B’nei Menashe in the world today, between 4,000 and or education needed to make a successful transition determination to 5,000 have immigrated to Israel, and the remaining to Israeli society and its workforce. The remaining return to us. We hope members live in the Indian states of Mizoram and B’nei Menashe in India face bureaucratic challenges that Jewish Long Manipur, near the border with Myanmar. Although to join their families in Israel. Most recently they have Beach will want to they claim descent from the Tribe of Menashe, one of faced significant hardships furthered by the COVID-19 continue to be a part the “10 Lost Tribes” of Israel, their adoption of Jewish pandemic as many have been reduced to poverty and of this story.” practice dates only to the 20th century. food insecurity. Jewish Long Beach There is striking evidence that for thousands of years Degel Menashe responded to the crisis in the will continue to their ancestors preserved ancient Israelite traditions spring and early summer by launching two rounds of respond to the needs dating back to biblical times. Many of these traditions a food relief program in Manipur and Mizoram. The of organizations and are connected to a legendary ancestor, today identified operation was met with many challenges including agencies impacted by them as Menashe, according to Hillel Halkin, author total lockdowns that prevented food transport to by the COVID-19 of “Across the Sabbath River: In Search of a Lost Tribe local communities and delays in gaining permission pandemic. If you of Israel.” Halkin is currently the chairman of Degel to circumvent them. This summer Degel Menashe would like to contribute to the COVID-19 Relief Menashe, an Israeli nonprofit organization, founded received a grant from Jewish Long Beach that aided Fund, please visit https://jewishlongbeach.org/ in November 2019, to support the advancement of their third round of food distribution, helping the ways-to-give/donation or call Yolanda Placencio at the B’nei Menashe in both Israel and India. organization provide 500 B’nei Menashe families 562.426.7601 ext. 1314 to donate by phone.

6 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 SPOTLIGHT JEWISH LONG BEACH

My Jewish Long Beach Story Aaron Kern, MD | VP Governance, Jewish Long Beach Board

Both my parents were born celebrate with him. He was completely alone and, I was named after my father’s closest friend, and raised, until 1939, in Vienna. worse, received no support from the community. Aaron. Aaron had escaped from Germany. He Although they lived relatively Of remarkable note, his parshah was Lech Lecha. loved to share with me how his German name had close, their families did not And so he did go forth, leading a very successful been “Adolph” and how lucky I was he had changed know each other until my career and raising a wonderful family. it! We celebrated all the holidays together with our parents ultimately met in New I was born in Glendale, CA, and raised in the extended Jewish family, but the highlight was always York. conservative synagogue, Temple Ner Tamid in Pesach. I try to follow in my father’s footsteps but My mother, Trudy, was only the San Fernando Valley where I became a Bar Seders are just not the same without him and his 8 years old when her parents Mitzvah. I later became active in United Synagogue best friend, Aaron. sent her to the United States, and she has no I was not engaged recollection of her time in Vienna. She suppressed in Jewish life all memories prior to life in New York. On the other during my college hand, her sister, my aunt, who was 13 at the time, years and did not has a complete recollection of the events. join a synagogue My maternal grandfather was in the grain again until after I business. His enterprise was thriving and expanding was married and at the time it was confiscated by the Germans. He had two children. was arrested shortly after the Anschluss in 1938. My wife, Leslie, With the prospects of being jailed for a year, not and I joined Temple to mention the political situation, he and my Beth David in grandmother decided to send my mom and aunt Westminster more elsewhere for safety. The options were either Israel than 20 years ago, or the United States. Given the presence of family where both of our in the U.S. but none in Israel, the choice was made. daughters, became My aunt recalls the day my grandmother took them B’not Mitzvah. I to the train station. While parting home wasn’t easy Youth, and enjoyed Camp Ramah in Ojai. While involved myself with the Temple Board for several years for my aunt, she was old enough to understand the my parents were not particularly religious, they and ultimately served in the capacity of President. need. When their train departed, my aunt cried and my brothers, Danny, David and I did attend My “Jewish Long Beach” story began when her heart out but my mother was totally silent and Shabbat services until we went off to college and Leslie and I joined the 1999 Federation trip to just played with her doll. They wouldn’t see their were imbued with Jewish values. My parents had Israel. From my participation in this trip, my parents for another 10 years. an extended family of friends, most of whom were parents’ experiences, and my affiliation to Beth also survivors. David, I understand how important it is to be a When my father was in his 60s, he decided part of creating and sustaining a strong Jewish to see if he could visit his childhood home. community. He contacted the then owners who were After this initial trip, I became involved with unwilling. Subsequently, while on a cruise, our Israeli Partnership committee and attended he met a Viennese couple who, after hearing some meetings in Israel. I went on to serve on my father’s story, said they would try and the Federation Board from 2008 – 2014 and the facilitate a connection and, indeed, a visit Foundation Board from 2016 – 2018. I am also active was ultimately arranged. with Men’s Philanthropy and am currently the VP of Upon arriving to his childhood home, Governance on the Jewish Long Beach Board. my parents quickly developed a close Leslie and I are both members of the Jewish relationship with the present residents. Long Beach Legacy Society, and I sincerely hope Their daughter, Lilly, aged 10 at the you will join me in supporting and sustaining our time, was so fascinated by the history great Jewish tradition. My father’s history is well documented. He of my father that she wrote an article in a remembered vividly his childhood home and life. local newspaper. His father was a successful businessman owning Subsequently, my a garment factory. The family lived in a nice father’s history apartment and lacked for nothing. Dad’s childhood, became her passion. much like my aunt’s, was typical prior to the Lilly, now 25, a Anschluss. He went to school, had lots of friends, Fulbright scholar etc. Afterward, he recalls how he was no longer able with master’s to attend school and his former friends shunned degrees in history him. Although his parents, like many others, and journalism, apparently recognized the danger too late, my has done extensive father was fortunate. His parents had the wisdom research. She to send him to France for safety with the intent of recently completed rejoining him in the U.S. Unfortunately, his parents a book about his and his brother were unable to follow and perished life and their in one of the camps. relationship, My father, Arthur, ultimately boarded a entitled “Arthur kindertransport and arrived in New York. Within and Lilly.” It will just a few weeks after his arrival, he became a Bar initially be published Mitzvah. While this is normally a joyous occasion, in German and, for him it was not a celebration. It was a bittersweet hopefully later, in moment since he had no family or friends to English.

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 7 COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS The Emotional Pandemic of 2020: “Choose Life!” Synagogue Jim Linden, PhD | Professor Emeritus, California State University, Long Beach Directory Beit HaLev (I) or 3 on a 10-point scale. If to handle trauma and loss. “I have put before you life P.O. Box 2279 something would have upset We can choose to have hope and death, blessing and curse. Seal Beach, CA 90740 Contact: Rabbi Galit Levy-Slater us we may have jumped to that things will get better. We Choose life—if you and your Phone: 562-493-2680 Email: [email protected] a 4 or 5. These days, because can choose to hold on to the offspring would live by loving Website: www.galityomtov.com­­­ of the turmoil in our world, blessings that we still have in the Eternal your God…you Beth David (R) 6100 Hefley St. our base level is closer to a our lives. In Viktor Frankl’s shall have life and shall long Westminster, CA 92683 5 or 6, and what would have seminal book, “Man’s Search endure upon the soil…” Contact: Rabbi Nancy Myers Phone: 714-892-6623 been a minor frustration for Meaning” he writes that ”Choose Life” is what God Email: [email protected] turns into a stress level of no one can take away our tells our people. Viktor Frankl Website: www.templebethdavid.org Chabad of Los Alamitos & Cypress (O) at least a 7 or an 8. Tempers freedom to think. As Frankl echoes this eloquently, as 12340 Seal Beach Blvd. Suite B-219 says, “We can choose to vanish does Dr. Eger. Even when we Seal Beach, CA 90740 can flare, frustrations feel Contact: Rabbi Shmuel Marcus overwhelming and depression in the dark, or we can choose are in the darkest of times, Phone: 714-828-1851 Email: [email protected] seems to be rampant. to kindle the light. Everything when there seems to be no Website: www.chabadlosal.com A large part of the can be taken from a human end to the suffering of so Chabad of West Orange County/ Congregation Adat Israel (O) The traumatic events of the emotional pandemic has being except one thing—the many, we can—indeed, we 5052 Warner Ave. to do with loss, which is last of the human freedoms, must—reach deeply into Huntington Beach, CA 92649 last six months have come Contact: Rabbi Aron David Berkowitz at warp speed: A worldwide one of the major causes of to choose one’s attitude, to our souls and embrace the Phone: 714-846-2285 Email: [email protected] virus that has killed more depression. A child loses choose one’s way.” stunningly liberating attitude Website: www.chabadhb.com than a million people; a spate her toy and is inconsolable. Indeed, we can look to to hold on to hope, to treasure Congregation Lubavitch (O) 3981 Atlantic Ave. of murders that has reignited A loved one dies, and we the portion of the Torah we whatever blessings we still Long Beach, CA 90807 passions and long simmering cry. Look at the enormity read on Rosh Hashanah for have in our lives, and to know Contact: Rabbi Yitzchok Newman Phone: 562-596-1681 angers about racial of losses that so many of us spiritual guidance, and learn that what we think and how Email: [email protected] oppression; the ugly hatred are all dealing with these that our attitude during we feel is something that Congregation Shir Chadash (I) 6440 Del Amo Blvd. of white racism; protests days: fewer social contacts; this emotional pandemic we alone can control. That Lakewood, CA 90713 Contact: Rabbi Mariana Gindlin around the country that no in-person entertainment, can be informed by God’s we can not only survive this Phone: 562-429-0715 have increasingly polarized including sports, movies and admonishment to “Choose emotional pandemic, but that Email: [email protected] Website: www.CongregationShirChadash.org the nation; and a national music; we can’t hug our loved Life” (Deut. 30, 19-20): we can prevail. Congregation Sholom of election that has gone from ones outside of our personal Leisure World, Seal Beach (C) Mail to: the ridiculous to the absurd— bubbles; huge financial losses PO Box 2901 for many; and, for too many Here are a few suggestions that may be helpful in your Seal Beach, CA 90740 from the first “debate” last Meet at: Clubhouse 3, Room 9 month, to learning that our people, the loss of health and quest to choose life during these difficult times: 1421 Northwood Road Seal Beach, CA 90740 President is infected with loss of life. • Call a friend you haven’t spoken with in a while— Fridays 7:00 PM, and Saturdays 9:30 AM Contact: President Carol A. Stern Levine coronavirus. This piece is Adding to these losses maybe someone from college or high school. Phone: Direct - 562-505-3622 are the daily fears that we • Take COVID-safe walks. Exercise a bit more vigorously. Phone: Membership - 562-430-7040 being written on October 8th, Email: [email protected] are all living with. “Can I • Listen to music you love…maybe a month before the election. P’nai Or (I) By the time you read it, who go food shopping? Is it safe even some oldies from 3955 N. Studebaker Road Long Beach, CA 90808 knows how else the world to eat at an outside patio when you were younger. Email: [email protected] might have changed. restaurant? Can I fly to see • Tell your family and friends that Shul By The Shore (O) 3801 E. Willow Street The detritus from the last my kids or grandkids? Is my you love them and wish you could Long Beach, California 90815 six months of trauma is cough or fever a symptom of see them in person. Contact: Rabbi Abba Perelmuter Phone: 562-621-9828 incalculable – medically, COVID-19? Is it safe to send • Try cooking some new recipes, Email: [email protected] socially, financially, and my kids to school?” This especially healthy ones … and Website: www.shulbytheshore.org Temple Beth Ohr (R) emotionally. I believe we combination of depression even not so healthy ones. 15721 E. Rosecrans Ave. and anxiety is a recipe for • Consider taking up a new La Mirada, CA 90638 are in the midst of not only Contact: Rabbi Mark Goldfarb a health pandemic, but an serious emotional trauma. hobby-like gardening, or sewing, Phone: 714-521-6765 Email:[email protected] emotional pandemic of I do not pretend to have a or playing an instrument, or reading different kinds of books. Website: www.tbolm.org unprecedented proportions. solution to these emotional • Learn new games – Mahjong, or scrabble, or bridge. Temple Beth Shalom (C) challenges. But I have some • Have a COVID-safe visit with a friend in a park or a 3635 Elm Avenue I see it every day when I Long Beach, CA 90807 speak with my therapy thoughts that might help large patio if you have one. Contact: Rabbi David Cantor Phone: 562-426-6413 clients. I see it in my friends. reduce the pain just a little • Call Jewish Family and Children’s Service where you Fax: 562-426-7824 Email: [email protected] I see it in my own family. that so many are feeling can connect with an empathetic counselor and possibly Website: www.tbslb.org join a (virtual) group of others who are looking for And I feel it myself. So many these days. I recently read. Temple Israel (R) of us in our Long Beach a beautiful memoir by Dr. social connections. 269 Loma Ave. Long Beach, CA 90803 Jewish community, as well Edith Eva Eger, a survivor Above all, do not give up hope that you will get through Contact: Rabbi Scott Fox Phone: 562-434-0996 as in the global community, of Auschwitz who is now, the losses and sadness that have afflicted so many of us this Email: [email protected] have been affected. at age 93, a psychologist past year. Website: www.tilb.org Because of this emotional in La Jolla. Dr. Eger writes Temple Ner Tamid of Downey (I) 10629 Lakewood Boulevard pandemic, many of us are that we all have choices in h Downey, CA 90241 ors ip • Contact: Rabbi Daniel Mehlman exquisitely vulnerable to how we respond to trauma, STAY W P Phone: 562-861-9276 ca J • du tio Email: [email protected] even ordinary stressors frustrations and losses. E n L • Website: www.downeytemplenertamid.org s • i

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8 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 RABBINIC REFLECTIONS COMMUNITY Name Three Positives Rabbi Dr. Mark Goldfarb | Temple Beth Ohr, La Mirada

When our dinner with my family.” and reproductive freedom. itself: Life is uncontrollable. Jewish liturgy is filled with children These pandemic days have The deaths of George Floyd, Our ancestors lived during expressions of gratitude: I am w e r e challenged us all greatly. We Breonna Taylor, and others times of great uncertainty grateful to be alive, grateful younger have had to learn to do things that give rise to questions and upheaval of social for what health I do have, and we differently and do work anew about racial justice in our order. Families, communities, grateful to be a sentient being, gathered – online or with limited society. The peaceful protests cities, and countries, were grateful for creation, and as a family employees on hand, adding of those deaths, which turned often devastated by wars, more. The very name of our around stress to our lives. Some of violent. The anger and epidemics and pandemics. religion, Judaism, and what the dinner table (before us saw our jobs disappear frustration of citizens spilling Families routinely mourned we call ourselves, Jews, comes having to leave for evening through no fault of our own! over into acts of violence the death of young children from the name of Judah. The meetings or events), Deb When we try to escape against others. and parents often faced the meaning of the name of Judah and I engaged them in a these pressures through TV, It would be easy for us to then unknown terrors of is “one who gives thanks.” recap of the day. We asked YouTube, or social media descend the slippery slope polio. How did they face their We even have a holiday set our children to “name three outlets, we get hit with all of cynicism and self-pity. uncertainty given the absence aside for the sole purpose positives of the day.” Some the terrible things going on We might feel ourselves of medical technology and of expressing gratitude: the days, the responses came in the world! Flooding along entitled to cry out like the resources that we now have? holiday of Sukkot. fast: “I made a new friend.” the US Gulf Coast. More than Prophet Isaiah, “Woe is me! How did they persevere Life will always be filled “I got an A on my project.” “I 200,000 Americans dead I am undone!” Though our through those calamities? A with uncertainty. So let us understood a complicated from COVID19 – a disease individual memory might be look into Jewish liturgy and express gratitude for the topic the teacher was originally predicted by our short, our collective memory tradition is most telling. certainty we know in this explaining.” Other days were government leaders to be as Jews and as humans Given all that the Jewish moment. For that is truly more difficult: “My friend less serious than the flu. A spans generations. Standing people have experienced in the only control we have in helped me when I dropped mass shooting in Rochester, at this point in history, this world, one might expect life – we choose how we will my books.” “My teacher NY. The death of Justice we have the advantage of our liturgy to be filled with respond. took the time to help me Ruth Bader Ginsburg — a perspective. Looking back expressions of grief, loss, Are you able to begin and understand my mistake on stalwart supporter of the over human time, one harsh, anger, and questioning. On end your days by naming the test.” “I’m home having rights of women, minorities, indisputable reality presents the contrary, almost all of three positives?

Who Am I? Nelli Greenspan | Director of Admissions and Marketing, Hebrew Academy of Orange County

After almost generation born here, who Israeli friends only. It was surrounded by Jewish buzz. long as you live in America, 16 years of sees itself as American first? so easy to celebrate holidays Now I have to be the role model give it a chance. Americans, living in Are we ever going to be part together even though we used for my children and bring all don’t judge us too quickly. We the U.S., I of American society and different traditions. You learn this Jewish pride into my own might still have a heavy accent, received my adopt it as our own? to accommodate them all. I home - and not just for the High and we might sometimes be citizenship. To be able to share my own still thought that I was going Holidays and Chanukah, but too loud, but we know how to Then I twist on these questions, I back home, to Israel. Shabbat, Independence Day, hug, and step up to help when discovered will use my personal story. Only when I moved to Memorial Day, and more. you need us, without the need that when someone asks I moved here a year after California to be closer to When my kids come home to schedule a month away. We me who I am, I hesitate, not my father passed away. I was my sister, my only sibling from the Hebrew Academy are decision-makers (Israeli knowing how to answer. Am a Hebrew and Judaic studies here, then got married to an singing the same songs that I Defense Forces Training – we I an American Jew, Israeli- teacher in with the American Jew, and had my own grew up with, they have more are all “commanders”). American, Israeli-Sephardi... plan to save some money for kids, did I realize that it’s time information and facts about For my fellow Israelis, open and in what order? one year and travel to South Judaism, but I realize it’s up to the community around Identity confusion is America, my dream trip. not enough. As a family, we you, volunteer, and donate very common with many I quickly realized that it decided to get more involved when you can. Google can immigrants and specifically is so easy to get lost here if with the local community, teach our kids the definition Israelis. This is regardless of you don’t belong to a Jewish Israeli community, and the of kindness, but only we can someone’s reasons for leaving community that accepts you American community by model it. Speak in English Israel. Israelis tend to create the way you are with your recruiting the entire family when you are around non- their own ”mini Israel.” We heavy accent. to volunteer at the Israeli Hebrew speakers, be more work very hard to surround After three years, I moved American Council Orange sensitive to them and don’t ourselves with Israeli friends to Miami to pursue my County’s celebration for criticize them because you who speak the same language, Master’s Degree in Jewish Yom Ha-Azma’ut, or taking have to schedule with them in without worrying about the Education and Jewish Studies to admit that my life is here. classes from the Israeli- advance for a cup of coffee. It is accent or being misunderstood. in English. While working As an ambassador of Israelis American Council on how to a good thing: you will never be We listen to Israeli songs, stay in another Jewish School, I and a Zionist, I have a big become a better leader, while double-booked this way. And up-to-date about the news in realized that I was about to responsibility – to strengthen my kids are watching me and to all the Jewish organizations Israel, and learn how to cook lose the Israeli in me -- the the connection between participating in the class. we have around us, you are authentic Israeli recipes. sense of humor, the warmth, Americans and Israelis. Volunteering in the Jewish the core of keeping us as one There are two questions the passion and free-spirit But there was something Israeli communities only nation. Make sure you listen here: Is this enough to and everything else that else that changed in me – I helped me see the beauty and to the Israelis. They want to be strengthen our identity and distinguishes us from others. realized that I took for granted the richness of both cultures. part of you. We are one. pass it on to the second So I surrounded myself with being Jewish and growing up My message is this: Israelis, as

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 9 COMMUNITY CONGREGATIONS ORGANIZATIONS It’s Showtime Temple Beth Ohr | La Mirada

You are invited to an online screening of “O My God” by Anat Gov. The film is directed by Howard Teichman and features Mike Burstynn, Marla Spassoff, and Joseph Rishik, in association with West Coast Jewish Theater. This virtual event will take place Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020 from 7-8:30 pm (PST). This event will be on YouTube. Upon receipt of payment, you will be sent a private link. Tickets are $36 per household. For more information please visit tbolm.org or contact Leslie Berger at 310.871.8498 or by email: [email protected]. Services Online Beit HaLev | Seal Beach

November Regular livestream Shabbat services every Friday at 6:00pm and Saturday at 10:30am. On Friday, November 6, the service will also include a Kristallnacht Observance.

December INFORMATION Regular livestream Shabbat services every Friday at 6:00pm PT and Saturday at 10:30am PT. From Thursday – Thursday, December 10 – 17, Beit HaLev will When: 11/10, 11/11, 11/18, 12/2, 12/9 livestream a Musical Chanukah Menorah Lighting service for each night of the 5:30 p.m.—7:00 p.m. pt holiday. Where: Live webinar with Q&A Livestream services are accessed from the following websites: http://www.galityomtov Cost: Free. Registration required.

https://www.facebook.com/galityomtov Register: aquariumofpacific.org/aquaticacademy https://www.youtube.com (Channel: Shabbat Shalom LIVE!) (562) 590-3100, ext 0 Beit HaLev also broadcasts on Zoom. For an invitation, Meeting ID and passcode, contact Rabbi Galit Shirah: 562. 715.0888 or email, [email protected]. Jewish Genealogical Society Orange County

November 22 at 10:00am PST – Judy Baston: Jewish Genealogy in Lithuania Judy Bastin was awarded the 2015 IAJGS Achievement award in recognition for her tireless work as a LitvakSIG board member, moderator of the LitvakSIG Discussion Group, member of the JRI-Poland Board, Lomza Archive Coordinator, and moderator of the Lodz Area Research Group and BialyGen Virtual and In-Person discussion groups. Judy was also involved in editing/proofreading Yizkor Book Beth David | Westminster for Ciechanowiec, Eisiskes, and Ostrow Mazowiecka, and is a sought- December after speaker. Get the link to register in advance by emailing [email protected]. Sunday, 11/8, 11:30am Zoom Q&A with Dr. Tarece Johnson

NEW DATE AND TIME: December 20 at 10:00am PST Thursday, 11/12, 2:00pm Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Myers – Virtual or in Person Lara Diamond: Finding Family in the Old Country: Getting Friday, 11/13, 7:30pm Choir and Veterans Shabbat – Virtual Adult and Junior Creative When Records are Scarce Choirs singing European borders were fluid, meaning that records for one family could have been written in many languages and Saturday, 11/14, 9:00am Torah Study with Rabbi Myers – Virtual or in Person kept in disparate locations. Lara Diamond will examine one large family that lived in the area, which now spans the Ukraine/Romanian border. Thursday, 11/19, 4:00pm Virtual Levi Strauss exhibit, Contemporary Jewish While they lived there, it was part of Hungary, then Czechoslovakia, Romania, Museum – A History of American Style then Hungary again, the Soviet Union and Ukraine. Records from this area were kept in multiple languages and are currently held in several modern countries and Saturday, 11/21, 9:00am Body, Mind and Spirit Shabbat – Stretching at the different archives within those countries. What ended up being a very large family Temple or at home on Zoom. Virtual or in Person was reconstructed using a variety of methods, including synagogue records, vital December records, census enumerations, Holocaust documents, Yizkor books, DNA and more. Saturday, 12/5, 9:00am Torah Study with Rabbi Myers – Virtual or in Person This talk will discuss the wide variety of resources used to reconstruct this family over the course of decades, bringing the family back to the 1700s and Saturday, 12/5, 10:30am Hanukkah Tot Shabbat – Virtual or in Person tracing distant cousins across the world. Lara Diamond has researched her roots in Eastern Europe using records Thursday, 12/10, 12:00pm Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Myers – Virtual or in Person from the Russian and Austro-Hungarian Empires. She is president of the Jewish Genealogy Society of Maryland, has leading roles in JewishGen’s Subcarpathian Friday, 12/11, 7:30 pm Hanukkah Service with both Beth David choirs singing and Ukraine SIG groups, and runs projects collecting documentation from virtually multiple towns. Her Jewnealogy blog is at https://larasgenealogy.blogspot.com. For further information, please email [email protected] or call Get the link to register in advance by emailing [email protected]. 714.892.6623 or [email protected].

10 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 ALPERT JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER COMMUNITY

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JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 11 COMMUNITY HEBREW ACADEMY Hebrew Academy – A Synchronous Education Program Goes Live Bryn Harari, PhD | Principal, Hebrew Academy

After an unprecedented and successful transition to B”H distance learning last March, the Hebrew Academy of Orange County swiftly transformed and re-imagined itself again to re-open its doors in September. Nearly 300 students participated in a synchronous program that has given parents and students the most expansive and inclusive opportunities for learning during this Pandemic. The Hebrew Academy offers an educational program that differs from many others, providing both onsite instruction and distance learning synchronously (at the same time). While many schools offer a hybrid program, where parents must choose one option for the whole year, and where students may only have the option of learning in-person for part of the time, Hebrew Academy students were warmly welcomed back on campus for a full in- person program. The students started the new year knowing that teachers and the school were prepared to adapt and respond to any situation that might arise, ensuring that students would have access to seamless and uninterrupted learning throughout the year. To make this possible, classrooms were prepared with state-of-the-art technology that enables teachers to teach students in the classroom while engaging students at home via Google Meet. Teachers are trained on numerous platforms to ensure seamless consistency, as well as safe and secure access. To support parents, a teacher was hired to assist parents and students as they learn from home. This teacher contacts each family at the start of the day to ascertain that they can access the technology, that they are aware of what the assignments are and have access to materials. The teacher is also able to provide additional tutoring or instruction where needed. In addition to providing continuous and uninterrupted learning, this model of education has powerful implications for a changing educational landscape. For students such as Shoshana in Long Beach, a third-grader who is learning at home because someone in her family is vulnerable to the virus, this opportunity meets her needs for inclusion and belonging. Shoshana said, “Although I can’t be at school myself, I still feel part of the class, and I get to see my friends every day.” These options for distance learning represent just some of the ways this award-winning school has responded to the unique demands of the day. Students Leading-Edge Environment Next Generation Skills learning on campus returned in September to find a campus transformed, with indoor classrooms Rigorous Curriculum Personalized Instruction re-imagined, outdoor classrooms available, lunch STEAM Program Social-Emotional Education and play areas that allow for small cohorts and distancing, as well as touchless facilities. Many of Athletics Electives Israel Education these developments have been made possible by generous grants and partnerships with local Jewish Jewish Literacy philanthropic organizations, including Jewish Long Beach and the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County. It is no surprise that the Hebrew Academy has been able to pivot and flex as effectively as it has during these challenging times. After all, the school has been serving Jewish students throughout Orange County and Long Beach with a variety of innovative programs for more than 50 years!

Hebrew Academy Orange County • 14401 Willow Lane • Huntington Beach, CA 92647 • 714.898.0051 • www.hacds.org

12 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 HILLEL COMMUNITY Dedicated Leadership Keeps Beach Hillel Strong ChayaLeah Sufrin | Executive Director, Long Beach Hillel

During these unusual times, non-profit organizations rely on their boards more than ever. Using board members as thought partners, community liaisons, and organizational guides is crucial to keeping our organizations strong. Beach Hillel is lucky to have a dedicated group of lay leaders who understand the important work we are doing for our Jewish students in the Long Beach area. Under the leadership of Board Chair Dr. Felice Adler-Shohet the Hillel board has expanded in numbers, transitioned to virtual meetings, implemented new bylaws and an employee handbook, and helped raise enough funds to keep Hillel programming alive. The Beach Hillel board includes two California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) faculty who are liaisons to the students and broader campus community, Dr. Jeffrey Blutinger and Dr. Suzanne Perlitsh Wechsler, long time board members Linda Simmons and Neil Wasserman have served on the Beach Hillel board through big changes and were adamant about keeping Hillel a central part of the Jewish community. Beach Hillel is lucky to have alumni serving on the board as well. David Rosen, Nicolas Lippa and Deni Volkoff all enjoyed and Deborah Moss joined the board in 2018/2019 with a deep commitment Hillel as students and to supporting Jewish student life not only at CSULB, but also Long Beach City now work to ensure the College, Cypress College, California State University, Dominguez Hills, Cerritos current students have College, and El Camino College. the same experiences We welcome our new board members for 2020/2021: Ken Schlesinger, Dr. they did in the past. Daphne Zagnoev, Dr. Suzanne Perlitsh Wechsler, Scott Newman and Carol Adams. Beach Hillel Student Thank you to the entire board of directors for your dedication to Beach Hillel! President David Rowe L’chaim! sits on the board as a Editor’s note: Jewish Long Beach is proud that Hillel board members voice of the students. David Rosen, Nicolas Lippa, Deni Volkoff and Carol Adams are also alumni Melissa Carr of the Alpert New Leaders Forum as are Board Chair Felice-Adler-Shohet and Kreitenberg, Solly Hess, Executive Director ChayaLeah Sufrin.

Project Manager/President (562)233-9934 [email protected]

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JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 13 COMMUNITY TRIBUTES

JEWISH JEWISH AJCC JFCS JFCS LONG BEACH LONG BEACH FROM JEWISH LONG CAMPUS CAPITAL FUND ALPERT JCC GENERAL GENERAL FUND IN MEMORY OF BEACH BOARD, IN MEMORY OF DEVELOPMENT FUND IN MEMORY OF • Jay Leff LEADERSHIP & STAFF • Muriel Lipeles IN HONOR OF • Lory Glickman Beloved Father IN MEMORY OF Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law • Avi Hayon on her Bat Beloved Wife to Karin Polacheck From Gail & Tom Levy • Mark Zotstein & Great Grandmother Mitzvah to Marvin Glickman From Roberta & Dr. Barry Rabin IN MEMORY OF Beloved Father to Rich & Amy Lipeles to Judi & Gordon Lentzner IN MEMORY OF • Jay Leff to Suzanne Smith From Judi & Gordon Lentzner From Linda & Howard Vogel • Jay Leff Beloved Father IN HONOR OF Beloved Father to Karin Polacheck MAZEL TOV SENIOR ADULT MEAL • Geoffrey & Sandra Carr • Laurie & Robert Raykoff to Karin Polacheck From Ronnie & Bob Kaplan on your 60th Anniversary on the birth of their grandson DELIVERY PROGRAM From Joyce & Mike Greenspan IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF Parker James Jennison IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF • Jay Leff Beloved Father • Jason From Arlene & Rick Freeman • Miriam Lazzar & Rose • Jay Leff Beloved Son Levin Beloved Father to Karin Polacheck MAZEL TOV to Elizabeth Roberts From Phill Lazzar to Karin Polacheck From Joanne Ratner & Wayne • Lindsey & Gary Fields From Judy Leff Slavitt IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF on the birth of their • Helen & Reuben IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF • Jay Leff • Jay Leff Beloved Father granddaughter Faye Aviva Natelson • Jay Leff Johnson Beloved Father Beloved Father to Karin Polacheck From Dr. Bernard Natelson to Karin Polacheck From Arlene & Rick Freeman IN MEMORY OF to Karin Polacheck IN MEMORY OF From Pattie & Marc Davidson From Kathryn Miles IN MEMORY OF • Zelda Paymar • Lory Glickman IN MEMORY OF Beloved Wife • Bobby Kronick From Judy Lober MERVIN N. GLOW • Jay Leff & KREIDA FAMILY to Marvin Glickman Beloved Father & Grandfaher IN MEMORY OF Beloved Father to Jann Kronick Gath & • Jay Leff ASSISTANCE FUND IN MEMORY OF to Karin Polacheck IN MEMORY OF • Linda Silverman Chance Gath to Karin Polacheck & From Susan & Bruce Whelan From Judi & Gordon Lentzner • Jay Leff Beloved Wife Randy Leff IN MEMORY OF Beloved Father to Ronald Silverman THINKING OF YOU From Robyn & David Ritz • Jay Leff to Karin Polacheck MAZEL TOV • Dr. Gail Levy, Amy & Troy IN MEMORY OF Beloved Father From Jen Conroy • Jay Leff to Karin Polacheck • Laurie & Robert Raykoff From Judi & Gordon Lentzner WENDY MANASSE & to Karin Polacheck From Jeannie & Bob Alban on the birth of their grandson IN HONOR OF IN MEMORY OF DAVID WIESE FAMILY Parker James Jennison From Shirley & Arnie Ostrow • Avi Hayon’s Bat Mitzvah • Jay Leff FUND MAZEL TOV IN MEMORY OF IN MEMORY OF to Judi & Gordon Lentzner • Jay Leff Beloved Father • Lindsey & Gary Fields From Lyn & Joel Epstein to Karin Polacheck • Jay Leff on the birth of their granddaughter to Karin Polacheck From Michele Berro Beloved Father Faye Aviva Johnson IN HONOR OF From Jill Rosenberg HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Karin Polacheck MAZEL TOV • Avi Hayon’s Bat Mitzvah For AJCC tributes please call: • Stella Ungar From Ronnie & Eric Feldman • Rita & Barry Zamost to Rabbi Oren Hayon & 562.426.7601 ext. 1414 From Joan & Marty Flax For JFCS tributes call: 562.427.7916. on the birth of their granddaughter Julie Lentzner Hayon Leah Emery Cooper From Lyn & Joel Epstein GET WELL SOON IN MEMORY OF • Rita & Ron Botwin • Esther & Barbara Thinking of you both, sending Beloved Sisters, Sister-in-law & Aunts warm wishes your way. to Dr. & Mrs David Urstein GENERAL FUND From Judi & Gordon Lentzner IN MEMORY OF BIRDIE’S KIDS • Muriel Lipeles CAMPERSHIP FUND Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law to Rich & Amy Lipeles IN MEMORY OF • Victor Cohn From Karen & Tim Strelitz to Susan Cohn IN MEMORY OF From Larry ZEEZO Campbell • Bobby Kronick Beloved Father & Grandfaher For Jewish Long Beach tributes call: to Jann Kronick Gath & 562.426.7601 ext. 1314 Chance Gath From Karen & Tim Strelitz IN MEMORY OF • Jay Leff Beloved Father to Karin Polacheck From Lea & Dennis Gerber 2020 CAMPAIGN IN MEMORY OF • Pearl Feldman From Michele Cohen

14 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020 IN MEMORIAM NEWS COMMUNITY

MAY THEIR MEMORY BE A BLESSING

Mark Zotstein Ruth (Paddy) Kaller We extend our condolences to the families and friends of those who have recently lost Lory Glickman Jerome (Jay) Leff a loved one. Sandy Horner Linda Silverman If you know of someone who has recently passed and would like them recognized in Barbara Ivler Dodie Robbins our publication, please send your request to: [email protected]

INPERSON SERVICES Friday nights at 6pm and Saturday mornings at 10am. Services are held outside on our patio with socially distanced seating. Masks and temperature checks required.

ZOOM Weekly Havdalah service & Social Hour Saturday nights after Shabbat. Check our website calendar for exact times.

STREAMING You can also watch our services from the comfort of your home on our streaming channel. Streaming of services is funded in part by a grant from Jewish Long Beach.

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO CONNECT WITH TEMPLE BETH SHALOM

For more information about our services and programming and for the livestream and zoom links, please visit us at tbslb.org or call (562) 426-6413.

3635 Elm Avenue—Long Beach, CA 90807

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG | 5781 HESHVAN – KISLEV – TEVET | 15 The Jewish Community Chronicle Non-Profit Organization Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus U.S. Postage 3801 E. Willow Street, Long Beach, CA 90815 PAID Permit No.129 Postperson please deliver by 10/31/20 Long Beach, CA Address Service Requested

TEMPLE ISRAEL LONG BEACH providing safe and meaningful reform jewish services, education and programming during these challenging times COME LEARN WITH US! Temple Israel’s Joys of Jewish Learning program is a proud past recipient of The Union for Reform Judaism’s Congregations of Learning Award. The entire community is invited to join us for any and all classes, most of them at NO COST!

This year we are looking forward to exploring “RESILIENCE, COMFORT AND CONNECTION” Download our fall catalog and be part of our learning community! THIS YEAR’S CLASSES INCLUDE: y y Cooking Classes y Music & Theater y Guest Scholars y Film Screenings & y AND MUCH MORE! Discussion

FROM ISAIAH TO JEREMIAH: SEEKING COMFORT STRIVING FOR RESILIENCY How Jerusalem Became so IN TROUBLED TIMES PART ONE Important to the Jewish People Wednesdays at 7:00 pm Sunday, December 6 at 7:00 pm November 18, December 2 & 9 Sunday, November 8 at 12:30 pm Licensed Educational Psychologists Greg and In this class, we will reflect on our experiences Lisa Endelman will explore resiliency through the Join Danny Ehrlich for a guided virtual tour in the during COVID, review other times in Jewish history development of competency based personal growth. Old City of Jerusalem. We’ll step back 2,700 years when similar challenges have been faced, and learn After defining the concept of resiliency, they will to the days of the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah about what our tradition has to offer for support and offer strategies to help with the development of grit, who walked and taught there. Please RSVP to the making meaning during such troubled times. Please growth mindset, scout mindset, and other related Temple Office (562) 434-0996. RSVP to the Temple Office (562) 434-0996. skills. Please RSVP to the Temple Office. WE ARE A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE REFORM CONGREGATION INSPIRING JEWISH LIFE IN LONG BEACH FOR OVER 96 YEARS! TEMPLE ISRAEL LONG BEACH 269 LOMA AVENUE • LONG BEACH, CA 90803 • 562.434.0996 • WWW.TILB.ORG

16 | CHRONICLE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2020