INSIDE Jewish

Community Volume 52, Number 2 • Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 Foundation It’s a pages 10-11 SMALL WORLD Sublime After All Two grade school friends reunite, after years Moments of apart, in the same community Calm eorge Skadron and Harold B. Albert are both Jewish In- dianapolis natives. They celebrated their bar-mitzvahs at the Ruckle Street Beth-El Zedeck Synagogue under page 9 Rabbi William Greenfield and attended high school Gtogether at Shortridge High School. Harold and George also lived two doors apart on Park Avenue during the WWII years. For college, they went their separate ways; Harold studied at Indiana University while George went to rival Purdue University, and they both joined their respective Sigma Alpha Mu fraterni- This Year in ty chapters. But it wasn’t until 44 years later, that they reunited across the country in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where they helped build the first Jewish Community Center. This year, George and Jerusalem his wife, Vivian, were honored with a community service award in Harold’s name. page 2 “It’s very humbling,” George said. “I have seen the list of people who have won the award in past years and they are spectacular. I am

SMALL WORLD continued on page 20 Jewish Organizations Express Shock of Alleged Antisemitic Attack against UNM Student Jewish organizations in New Mexico tions of . And, we encourage JFNM is a founding member of the were shocked to learn that a UNM stu- prosecutors to pursue hate crime charges New Mexico Alliance Against Hate dent, Roni Saponar, was attacked in an if the evidence in the case shows that the Crime which is working to promote alleged antisemitic incident at a party on student was attacked by the group be- stronger hate crime law through the leg- May 7. According to the police report, cause of his Jewish identity.” islative process. (For more information the 19-year-old was allegedly targeted The Jewish Federation of New Mex- see page 6.) Lennick stated: “When any due to his Jewish identity and was as- ico’s CEO Rob Lennick stated: “We person in our community is attacked be- saulted by a group of six individuals. He firmly condemn this horrendous attack cause of any aspect of their particular sustained a closed head injury and was of a UNM student – beaten specifically identity – it is an attack on our entire treated at the hospital. because he is Jewish - as we condemn all community. We invite people across our “We are outraged and appalled by hate crime and hate based assaults. No state to join together in condemning this the violent attack against a University one should be subjected to this kind of brutal attack and all hate in all forms.” of New Mexico student and the alleged violence and degradation. We are work- Hillel International, the Jewish stu- antisemitism that prompted the attack,” ing with our partners in law enforcement, dent organization based in Washington said Scott Levin, regional director, ADL the Attorney General’s office, the ADL, D.C., closely monitors , and Mountain States Region. “It is abhorrent leadership at University of New Mexico found a post on describing the that anyone would be attacked simply and Hillel House in bringing the perpe- attack. It immediately alerted Sara Ko- because of who they are. We strongly en- trators to justice and making sure such plik, director of the Aaron David Bram courage law enforcement to fully inves- attacks do not happen in our communi- tigate this assault, including the allega- ty.” ATTACK continued on page 4 Not what to think.

Grades 6 - 12 How to think. sandiaprep.org 2 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S CORNER DogTV, Power Rangers, MobilEye of reference, Jerusalem is mentioned democracy, our Jewish destiny, our driver assistance, snowmaking, the in the Tanach 669 times and Zion, 154 ability to achieve Eban’s “authentic cherry tomato, PlayStation 3, An- times, which helps to illustrate how fulfillment” of our historic covenant swers.com, HP Indigo, Kindle plat- Israel is undeniably at the root of Jew- would be mortally damaged. We are form, fire wall, Windows XP, dental ish consciousness. We need to help a small number within the greater hu- This Year in Jerusalem: laser, ViaDerm, Sambucol, Copaxone ensure that continues for the future. man family, barely half of one percent for MS, PillCam, Asilect for Parkin- Second, Abba Eban refers to, of the world’s population. The exis- Join the Jewish son’s, interferon proteins, prediction “destination.” Israel is our spiritual tence of just this one country in the of quarks, formulation of black holes destination, the place where one can world that can maintain its full Jewish Federation’s Journey entropy, OrCam, Iron Dome, flexible experience the ultimate fullness of religio-cultural essence is paramount By Rabbi Dr. Rob Lennick, stent, and many other discoveries. a Jewish life, immersed in Hebrew, to preserving our future. CEO Jewish Federation Israel is important for the better- where the national holidays are the The most amazing part of Israel is of New Mexico ment of the world. Jewish festivals, where the Bible is simply being there. We are excited to Israel is also essential for the full- constantly alive and its history every- announce that JFNM will be leading a Israel is very much on my mind. est expression of our unique Jewish where around us to be seen and felt. community journey to Israel (assum- It is so ironic that while anti-Zi- moral destiny. In 1975, Abba Eban, Israel is also the safe haven and desti- ing we have the all clear here in the onism continues to foment in many Israel’s leading diplomat of the 20th nation for every Jewish person in the USA and Israel regarding Covid-19), places here in the USA and around the century wrote in : world who is under threat. from December 19 to 31, 2021. This world, Israel remains a role model in “Zionism is nothing more - but also Third, Eban speaks of Israel as the will be a wonderful experience for its response to Covid-19, in making nothing less - than the Jewish people’s “instrument” where the Jewish people everyone – individuals, families, first peace and economic alliances with sense of origin and destination in the can seek, “the authentic fulfillment of timers, and veteran visitors. nations across the Arab world, as a land linked eternally with its name. itself.” This expresses so beautifully It will be a terrific opportunity to leader in entrepreneurship, and as It is also the instrument whereby the the essence of Zionism as I under- create special bonds and memories an astounding source of technologi- Rabbi Dr. Rob Lennick Jewish nation seeks an authentic ful- stand it: Israel is the crucible in which within our diverse Jewish communi- cal, scientific and medical discovery. fillment of itself.” the Jewish people play out the sacred ty. There will be no solicitations. We Modern Israel is a marvel! population, Traditional Jews account Among the host of definitions of experiment in creating a society that will meet our Israeli partners and the The state of Israel is also a com- for 38.5%, and the remaining 20.1% Zionism, I find Eban’s statement most reflects both the universal and partic- B’nai Menashe community. We will plicated place with the intersection of are Orthodox/ultra-Orthodox. This poignant. First, he references, “ori- ularistic ethical aspirations expressed have discussions with representatives secular values and traditional Jewish diversity of perspectives about Jewish gin.” We have had an unbroken pres- in our traditions. from the government and journalists. religious authority. It is a parliamenta- law and tradition makes for compli- ence in Israel for nearly 4,000 years, I am reminded of Ahad Ha-Am We will visit the highlights across the ry democracy with a structure similar cated politics, intense public debate many scholars date our origins from (Asher Zvi Hirsch Ginsberg), the country, participate in an archeologi- to Britain, and yet also defined by the and a painstaking process of change. the early second millennium BCE. 19th century Zionist essayist who de- cal dig, share Shabbat in Jerusalem, strong influences of longstanding re- How many unresolved elections has Our ancestors from that place were scribed a future for Israel deriving and be on the go with many other fun ligious hegemony. Some might call it Israel had in recent times? Four elec- initiated into a covenant that led to out of a renaissance leading to the and interesting adventures as we share a bifurcated society with both secular tions without a final outcome in two our emergence as a people and then creation of a creative, democratic, the beauty and wonder of our home- and religious courts, where matters of years, and perhaps a fifth. This is just a nation. Our stories, our Tanach, our diverse religio-cultural Jewish center land. personal status like birth, marriage, one indication of its complexity. religious seasons and celebrations, in Israel. Mordecai Kaplan later envi- The Jewish Federation will hold an divorce, conversion and death are And yet, in spite of, or perhaps be- and many of our Jewish family rituals, sioned Israel as the hub of a wheel – informational meeting about the trip under Orthodox Jewish authority and cause of this societal dynamic tension, are eternally rooted there - in that little driving and inspiring Jewish life in all by on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 most other matters are driven through Israel is also a hub of renaissance and sliver of geography, about the size of forms everywhere – and essential for at 7 pm. Please go to: www.nmisrael- secular means. But there is no doubt, has created for the world an amazing New Jersey. the survival of the Jewish people as a exodus2021.org to register for this whether secular or religious – Israelis list of inventions and new discoveries. Even when our sovereignty was whole. Aspiring to and supporting this informational meeting, check out the take pride in the essential Jewish na- Here is a quick, eclectic sampling: denied to us over the course of four vision is a cornerstone of our Jewish details, and download the brochure ture of Israeli life as they believe in The cell phone, drip irrigation, desali- millennia, we never stopped inhabit- Federation purpose and ethos. about this exciting journey. We hope their open democracy. nation, ReWalk exoskeleton, WAZE, ing Eretz Yisrael, always building our My response to anti-Zionists like you will join us. Let’s make “This I read recently that Jewish Israelis Babylon – translation system, USB homeland, deepening our connection JVP and others who promote a purely Year in Jerusalem,” a reality. break out into three sectors: secu- flash drive, Intel 8088 first PC CPU, with its spiritual echoes and visions. secular Zionism, is to respectfully ex- lar, traditional and Orthodox. Secu- temporal logic, RSA public key Nor did those exiled ever cease yearn- press my deepest concern, that were Am Yisrael Chai! lar Jews make up 41.4% of the Jewish encryption, Nanowire, Intelligym, ing for their return. And just as a point Israel to be a heterogeneous, secular

The trip you have been waiting for! Join the Jewish Federation of New Mexico and our entire community for an "Exodus to Israel" Experience of a Lifetime!

Well-Being Join us for a virtual informational meeting on Conversations June 9th at 7 PM For the meeting Zoom link and more Thursdays, 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm information about this exciting journey go to: Join Stacey McMullen, Social Services Manager for the Jewish Care www.nmisraelexodus2021.org Program for weekly gatherings to discuss how you are attending to your wellbeing and what you are learning from life during these uncertain times.

Email [email protected] to RSVP. Zoom link will be emailed upon RSVP. Free. Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 3

JOSHUA HABERMANN | ARTISTIC DIRECTOR UNLIKELY PARTNERS 2021

FESTIVAL July 18 through 3 DISTINCT PROGRAMS August 6, 2021 WITH 11 PERFORMANCES. IN SANTA FE OF special interest: THE JEW AND THE GENTILE: Salamone Rossi and Claudio Monteverdi Program Sponsored by Stephen and Jane Hochberg Explore the compositions of Jewish composer Salamone Rossi (1570-1630) and his Christian counterpart Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643). Both employed at the Court in Mantua, Monteverdi and Rossi came from different backgrounds, but they shared a common musical language. Excerpts from Rossi’s Hashirim Asher Li-Sh’lomo and Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610 demonstrate that our common shared artistic heritage is greater that our cultural divisions. Sixteen of the Desert Chorale’s Early Music specialists will be joined by period instrumentalists: Maxine Thévenot, Organ; Stephen Redfield, Violin; Lorenzo Colitto, Violin; and Katie Rietman, Cello.

Sunday, July 18 at 4 pm Concert Sponsored by Catherine and Guy Gronquist Tuesday, July 27 at 8 pm Wednesday, August 4 at 8 pm Stained glass: L. Bradford Prince, the 14th Governor of New Mexico Territory (1889 to 1893) and a lay leader of The Church of the Holy Faith, spearheaded a drive to build a church for the young parish. As told by the docents at Holy Faith, “Prince and others sought out ten businessmen in Santa Fe who were then TICKETS ON SALE JUNE 1 encouraged to donate $100 each for building the structure. Other generous donors LIMITED CAPACITY included several members of the local Jewish community, including Abraham Staab whose home became the neighboring La Posada de Santa Fe. Holy Faith (505) 988-2282 or desertchorale.org memorialized its Jewish friends with the crescent-shaped stained glass window over the entrance. Central to the window’s design is a Star of David. To this day, Due to COVID-19, safety protocols have been put in place. the window makes apparent such interfaith collaboration.” Photo: Zina Jundi Seating is limited and capacities have been modified. 4 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 Antisemitic Incidents Remained at Historic High Across US: Incidents targeting Jews in New Mexico slightly increased, according to ADL report and other marginalized communi- the U.S. requires other forms of ist and hate-motivated violence, reporting. ties being blamed or scapegoated analysis as well, including but not the federal government and states • School districts should promote for spreading the virus. After the limited to public opinion polling, should significantly increase the anti-bias, bullying prevention and pandemic became more widespread assessments of online antisemitism, non-profit security grant program Holocaust and genocide education starting in March, incidents of van- and examinations of extremist ac- funding and institutional security programs in elementary and sec- dalism and assault decreased. Ad- tivity, all of which ADL offers in training and outreach. ondary schools. University lead- ditionally, antisemitic incidents at other reports, found at adl.org. • Governments should provide law ership should respond firmly and ntisemitic incidents re- schools and colleges dropped sig- enforcement officials with the tools forcefully to antisemitic acts on mained at a historically nificantly as learning moved online. How ADL is Responding and guidance they need to prevent college campuses, including inci- high level across the United A In January and February of 2020, ADL has a comprehensive ap- and effectively identify, investigate dents that target Jewish students States in 2020, with a total of 2,024 antisemitic incidents in schools, proach to addressing antisemitic and respond to hate crimes, while because of their actual or perceived incidents of assault, harassment and colleges, and universities were re- incidents and behavior. This in- providing trauma-informed com- support of the state of Israel. vandalism reported to ADL (the ported at significantly higher -lev cludes prevention efforts through fort and assistance to individual • In response to the rising threat of Anti-Defamation League). While els than they were during the same youth education as well as work- victims and community members. domestic extremism in the wake of antisemitic incidents declined by period in 2019. As the pandemic ing to enact laws that will improve Additionally, law enforcement the January 6 insurrection at our na- four percent nationwide after hit- became known and spread, edu- federal, state and local prevention agencies should use data from the tion’s Capitol, ADL recently creat- ting an all-time high in 2019, last cation, businesses and religious tactics and response to antisemitic FBI, Department of Education, ed the PROTECT plan, which out- year was still the third-highest year services moved online, and ADL hate crimes and all forms of hate and NGOs such as ADL and Stop lines a comprehensive, bipartisan for incidents against American noted an increase in incidents of violence. AAPI Hate to anticipate where hate approach to address this pernicious Jews since ADL started tracking antisemitic “Zoombombing” – the ADL also partners with law en- incidents are most likely to occur threat. such data in 1979. intentional disruption of live vid- forcement to raise awareness of ex- and to proactively contact commu- The ADL audit includes both ADL’s annual audit of antisemit- eoconferences. In 2020, ADL re- tremist threats and help law enforce- nity members and institutions to criminal and non-criminal acts of ic incidents showed little change corded 196 incidents of antisemit- ment professionals recognize and strengthen relationships and collab- harassment and intimidation, in- in New Mexico compared to 2019. ic videoconferencing attacks. Of disrupt potential threats. ADL like- oration. cluding distribution of hate propa- There were eight reported incidents those incidents, 114 targeted Jewish wise provides education and train- • Congress should give the Justice ganda, threats and slurs, as well as in New Mexico in 2020 compared institutions such as synagogues and ing every day to students, reaching Department the tools it needs to vandalism and assault. Compiled to seven in 2019. schools. young people at a time when they support law enforcement agencies using information provided by vic- Among the reports the ADL In 2020, ADL counted a total of are most vulnerable to bullying and in strengthening their practices and tims, law enforcement and com- mountain states region received in 2,024 antisemitic incidents across social pressures. ADL works with capacity to investigate and report munity leaders, and evaluated by 2020 pertaining to New Mexico the U.S., a four percent decline victims and universities to respond on hate crimes by enacting the Jaba- ADL’s professional staff, the audit were: A parking lot on the campus from the 2,107 incidents recorded to antisemitic harassment and other ra-Heyer NO HATE Act. Congress provides a regular snapshot of one of the Jewish Community Cen- in 2019. There were 1,242 harass- worrying incidents on college cam- can advance its goals by requesting specific aspect of a nationwide ter was vandalized with swastika ment incidents, 751 acts of vandal- puses. Finally, ADL’s No Place for an accounting from the Attorney problem while identifying possible and SS graffiti, a banner was hung ism, and 31 assaults. For the first Hate and Words to Action programs General of law enforcement agen- trends or changes in the types of over an overpass on Interstate 25 in time since 2017, no fatalities were teach understanding and promote cies’ hate crime reporting practices, activity reported. This information Albuquerque that read, “Why are reported. ADL’s audit recorded 331 inclusivity in schools and on cam- and by directing state and local law assists ADL in developing and en- Jews banning free speech?” Also, a antisemitic incidents attributed to puses. enforcement assistance to programs hancing its programs to counter and synagogue received a harassing and known extremist groups or individ- In response to the historic rise in and efforts that improve hate crime prevent the spread of antisemitism antisemitic email. uals inspired by extremist ideology. antisemitic incidents over the past investigation, record-keeping and and other forms of bigotry. “Far from being a thing of the This represents 16 percent of the four years, ADL has made the fol- past, antisemitism is an existential total number of incidents. White lowing policy recommendations: threat to the safety and security of supremacist groups were responsi- • Public officials and civic leaders Jewish individuals and communi- ble for 277 antisemitic propaganda — from the president, to governors, ties across the region and country,” distributions. attorneys general, mayors, other said Scott Levin, ADL mountain In 2020, there were 327 report- civic leaders, and law enforcement states regional director. “Data from ed incidents at Jewish institutions authorities — should use their in- ADL’s audit, combined with state such as synagogues, Jewish com- fluence to speak out against- an and federal hate crime reports, munity centers and Jewish schools, tisemitism and all forms of hate and demonstrates that we cannot let an increase of 40 percent from 234 extremism. down our guard. We will redouble We are home, not home-like. in 2019. Of that total, 264 were • Federal, state, and local author- our efforts to confront antisemitism incidents of harassment, 61 were ities should provide funding for and hate, but we cannot do it alone. incidents of vandalism and 3 were security hardening and enhance- Antisemitism must be a concern incidents of assault. ments for at-risk houses of worship, for all people of goodwill and con- The audit offers a snapshot of schools, community centers, and science.” one of the ways American Jews other non-profit institutions. At a The year was dramatically im- encounter antisemitism, but a full time of increased attention to white pacted by the COVID-19 pandem- understanding of antisemitism in supremacy, antisemitism, extrem- ic, which led in some cases to Jews

New Mexico's Dementia Experts

ATTACK continued from page 1 his family who have been impacted by this terrible hate crime.” Arbors Hermosa Sierra Vista Hillel House at the University of New Mexico. She For his part, the young man at the center of this Las Cruces Santa Fe Santa Fe issued the following statement: “We are focused on attack also has a message for our community. In a providing support to Roni Saponar in his recovery and brief interview, Roni Saponar stated: “I feel inspired (575) 382-5200 (505) 474-8031 (505) 986-9696 addressing anti-Semitism within the campus and our to create as much awareness as I can about this issue.” community. All of the Hillel family sends its warmest He continued: “It is very important to me that people VISTALIVINGCARE.COM wishes for a full and complete recovery to Roni and aren’t scared to be Jewish.” Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 5

IPS

ARMED PATROL – ARMED RESPONSE – K-9 SERVICES “ T H E R I G H T C O M P A N Y A T T H E R I G H T T I M E. ” w w w . i p s g l o b a l . c o m • 5 0 5 – 8 9 7 – 2 4 2 0 6 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The Jew Not Sitting Next to You in Shul By Ilene Weiss Arc was attending a Tashlich cere- Moral Minyan, I have had the op- ty for you or a young person you and quickly found a different date. mony at the Rio Grande, meeting portunity to be involved with lo- know, you can find more details and Later during that campaign when For many of us, seeking to create in a small group to mark this ritu- cal and national electoral work, the application here: https://www. scheduling came up that again con- change is an important way we first al together. We brought together as well as to focus on and support jewishpartnership.us/jeremiah. flicted with Shabbat, she was the connect to our Judaism. It is in es- our Jewish traditions and ritual local issues pertaining to decarcer- This is a great opportunity to put first to step in on our behalf. Being sence, our holy work. We are taught with our deep desire for revolu- ation, abolition, immigration, and passion into practice -- pass it on! seen and welcomed in these ways values such as avodah (service or tionary change. We are a volun- education. It has been wonderful to The work I do with Bend the Arc means a lot. I feel the strength in worship) and gemilut chasadim teer-led group of Jews, affiliated be able to do all of this in a Jew- does not happen in a vacuum. We our partnership with others. (acts of loving kindness) to guide us and non-affiliated, mobilizing our ish space. As a Jew and an activist, select campaigns and issues that We are also a community for in how we live our Judaism - both community to resist, show up in I have found a place where I can are aligned with local groups most one another-- lifting each other up, in temple and beyond, when we are solidarity, and win power for our show up as myself. It has offered impacted by systemic oppression, offering a virtual shoulder to lean “praying with our feet.” progressive vision of a country that me a deep sense of solidarity. It and anti-Black on and a comrade for supportive We live the cycles of social activ- lives up to our values of justice and also brought me more fully into my racism. We focus on joining the kvetching. Occasionally we run ism guided by the seasons and holi- equality for all. Judaism as I work with others more work already happening and bring into one another at actions or leg- days, which offer us a rhythm of the Our Moral Minyan in New Mexi- steeped in Jewish traditions I may our Jewish community into the islative offices without planning Jewish year. We equally live these co is part of a network of over twen- not understand, or even have heard fight. Showing up as a group lets and it is always a welcome coinci- cycles through election seasons and ty-fiveminyanim across the country of. folks know we are aligned and in dence— sort of a pop-up minyan! uprisings of social movements. who organize locally. Nationally, Bend the Arc is continuing to that there is power. Our members Each of our actions begins and ends During the last year, I have be- Bend the Arc (BTA) builds, ampli- grow this work through the Jeremi- know they can come to the group with a check-in and community come active in Bend the Arc: Jew- fies, and activates the full power of ah Fellowship —an organizing and for support in the work they are do- building steeped in Jewish rituals. It ish Action New Mexico, a group American Jews — the people, re- leadership development program ing outside the minyan as well. We is clear that taking the time to do the started in 2019 as an outgrowth of sources, and prophetic tradition — for young Jewish adults, aged 22- prioritize partnership so we can be opening and closing work not only the founding members’ immersion in the transformation of our coun- 32. This fellowship is a nine-month part of building community power focuses and solidifies our members in the study of racism and white su- try to be inclusive, equitable, and program, investing in the next gen- in New Mexico. I have experienced but it builds deeper relationships premacy from a Jewish perspective. actively supportive of the dignity eration of Jewish leaders to gain this partnership first-hand through with the groups with whom we are In fact, our first public event was of every person, while connecting skills in community organizing, our work with the Working Fami- partnering. held to mark Tisha b’Av, a day of Jews to our communal purpose build power in their communities lies Party New Mexico to organize Our people have been rising up Jewish mourning, reflecting on the and commitment to justice. We are and join a cohort of leaders across Get Out the Vote campaigns. to fight for justice for generations, link between the historical mourn- a home for 21st century American the country. We are really excited to At one point, a partner organi- giving us the blueprint. It is in our ing of the destruction of the First Jews to live their values and take be participating in the Jeremiah Fel- zation we were working with on a traditions. We invite you to join and Second Temples with the cur- meaningful action toward creating lowship here in New Mexico for the campaign scheduled a training for us to learn more about our current rent injustices around us in our own a more just, equal, and compassion- first time and are actively looking us on a Saturday. When we shared campaigns and how you can get in- community. ate America for all of its residents. for interested folks to apply. If this that some of our members ob- volved: https://www.bendthearc.us/ gamelsky new cards:Layout 1 9/26/08 9:07 AM Page 1 My first introduction to Bend the As a member of our local BTA sounds like an exciting opportuni- serve Shabbat, she was intrigued newmexico_signup

JFNM Statement Regarding Attacks LEE GAMELSKY ARCHITECTS P.C. on the Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities By Rabbi Dr. Rob Lennick, CEO hateful intent of the perpetrator can be fully proven, a year or two more may be added to the sentence 2412 MILES ROAD SE We have witnessed, yet again the horror of hate for the primary crime at the discretion of the judge. ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87106 crime in our country, as those who have been em- The court also has the option to impose restorative 505.842.8865 FAX 842.1693 boldened in recent times to traffic in hatred have justice requirements like community service, coun- [email protected] brought murderous violence to the Asian American seling and making restitution. www.lganm.com LEE GAMELSKY AIA, LEED AP and Pacific Islanders communities. In a year that There is a growing coalition in our state that in- has seen hate crimes against communities of color, cludes the NAACP, the Holocaust Museum of New the Jewish community, the LBGTQ community, the Mexico, the Chinese American Citizen’s Alliance, AAPI communities and others reach new heights – Equality New Mexico and the Jewish Federation of we must continue the vigilant work together to stop New Mexico working together to strengthen our hate the epidemic of racism and hatred raging in our crime law. Changes might include creating stronger country. sentencing guidelines and especially, calling for the The Link is a community newspaper, published since 1971 as a service We in the Jewish community grieve for our AAPI mandate to impose restorative justice requirements. by the Jewish Federation of New Mexico. It focuses on Jewish life in New brethren and share their outrage at the murder of We are also exploring the possibility of proposing Mexico, and is committed to seeing Jewish life thrive. Asian women in Atlanta in March and the ongoing a stand-alone hate crime bill so that the enhance- Publisher: Rob Lennick, CEO Submissions: hate-driven incidents directed at their communi- ment approach will give way to treating hate crime Jewish Federation of New Mexico (JFNM), 821-3214 Letters to the editor, articles, or other information to be considered for publication must be sent with return ties. Stop AAPI Hate reports that there have been at as a crime unto itself. Over the next year we look Editor: Sara Koplik, Ph.D. address and phone number and signed by the author. least 3,975 racially motivated attacks on the AAPI forward to working with other communities at risk Editorial Board: Marvin Gottlieb, Ph.D., E-mail submissions are preferred. The editor reserves communities in the in the last twelve to expand our coalition to bring about these needed Ron Duncan Hart, Ph.D., the right to edit or deny publication to submissions. Sabra Minkus Materials sent to The Link will not be saved or returned months – and the number is much higher consider- changes. We invite all who concerned about this to Sarah Newman unless accompanied by self-addressed, stamped ing the many incidents that never get reported. join us in this grassroots effort. envelope. All letters, readers forums and opinion Contributors: lene Weiss, Scott Melton, Maya Savin pieces solely reflect the opinions of the authors and In Atlanta, while some offending reports suggest We, in the Jewish community steadfastly stand Miller, Andrew Balis, Rev. Erica Lea-Simka, Judah Bot- not the opinions of The New Mexico Jewish Link, nor the perpetrator didn’t display the usual elements of up against all forms of hate and racism, and today zer, Rabbi Paul Citrin, Sarah Rachel Egelman, Susan of its publisher, the Jewish Federation of New Mexico. Jo Keller, Diane Joy Schmidt, Shelly Prant, Phyllis Wolf, These serve as a forum for the New Mexico Jewish a hate crime, the fact is, he targeted a specific group stand in firm solidarity with the AAPI communities. Emily Blaugrund Fox, Eli Follick, Sybil Kaplan, Marsha community and The Link strongly urges submissions. of people. Our experience tells us that this is a hate And although it is important to recognize that the Berkowitz Johansen. Send submissions via e-mail to sarakoplik@unmhillel. org or via post to crime. It points out the challenges in the current state suffering perpetrated through racism and hate are Production: Christine Carter, Envision Graphics The New Mexico Jewish Link, of hate crime laws which usually require very specif- uniquely experienced by each and every victimized Wire service: Jewish Telegraphic Agency 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109. ic qualifications. community – we believe, the only path forward is to The New Mexico Jewish Link is published quarterly. Address: The New Mexico Jewish Link Postmaster: Send address changes to Here in New Mexico, our hate crime statute ad- stand together! 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87109 JFNM, 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE dresses it as an “enhancement,” meaning it is added For more information, please contact Rob@Jew- Albuquerque, NM 87109. All letters, readers’ forums, opinion pieces and on to other primary crimes like vandalism. If the ishNewMexico.org. advertisements solely reflect the opinions of the authors and not the opinions of the New Mexico Jewish Link. Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 7 Yom HaShoah, the Myth of the Model Minority and a Future Generation too often, genocide continues. economics, medicine, and science. and into the suburbs. And where If not now, when? We were fully integrated, assimi- we weren’t welcome, we built our Remarks to the Jewish Com- lated, intermarried into a society, own. We remember the Holocaust and munity Yom HaShoah Holocaust that for the most part, embraced us the six million Jews who lost their Memorial Day Commemoration and our contributions and achieve- The Jew, lives. We honor them and the sur- on April 7, 2021: ments… or so we thought. kind of white, vivors and their children and the In a world that is so heavily di- We were the model minority. kind of acceptable… for now. trauma we carry with us as a peo- vided, Yom HaShoah stands out How much we enjoyed that status ple. And we learn from that trauma as a reminder that the world as we when we had it. How surprised We think we are okay with our and memory, that we are not alone. know it can change in an instance. were we when we learned how ten- model minority status. Some of There are others today all over the When we as Jews think of the Ho- uous and fleeting that status became us can even pass for white, until world and yes, even here at home, locaust, we intentionally focus on when the economic and social tides we walk into a synagogue and the who face the fear and trauma and the six million Jews who were ex- turned. Once again, we became the unthinkable happens. And then we memory of genocide. terminated in the camps. scapegoat, the demon, the stranger, remember, we might be a model Yom HaShoah is not just a re- We rarely discuss the seven mil- the unwelcome, the vermin. How minority, but our status as a model membrance of our past, but a re- By Scott Melton lion Soviet civilians, three million could it happen so easily that the minority is tenuous at best. minder to us that it is our place Soviet POWs, 1.8 million non-Jew- dignity and safety we had fought We continue to witness to stand up and be the ally to op- Recently, I was asked to speak ish Polish civilians, 312,000 Serb for and won was taken away over- state-sponsored ethnic, racial, na- pressed people at home and abroad. about the meaning of Yom HaSho- civilians, 250,000 people with night. tional, and religious cleansing and For if any one group becomes the ah for future generations. The disabilities, 250,000 - 500,000 After the war, only a handful of genocide around the world. So, scapegoat or focus of ridicule, ex- following are some thoughts and Roma, 1,900 Jehovah’s Witnesses, Jews remained behind, most sur- what makes the Holocaust unique? ile, blame, we, as Jews, know that observations on what the Shoah and 70,000 criminal offenders and vivors left for anywhere but Ger- What makes us as Jews unique? none of us is free until all are free. means for us as a community, and a-socials (communists, socialists, many. For Jews who came here, it We raise up our voices, as our We remember the past in order to also as individuals moving forward homosexuals). (US Holocaust Mu- was a fresh start. A new start. But brothers and sisters did in Warsaw. create a brighter future for all. in a turbulent world. seum 2021). we faced many of the same obsta- “Sag nie dass du den letzten Weg Having spent a great deal of time As Jews, we take this opportu- cles. Restricted communities: signs gehst!” Never say you walk the fi- Scott Melton is on the faculty of immersed in German language, nity to stop and remember who we clearly stating, no Jews allowed. nal road! We rebuild ourselves time Bosque School. He serves on the culture and history, my perspective are and from where we came. This and time again. As American Jews, board for Breaking the Silence NM, is mostly that of an historian. But day is a day of remembrance, a day But we are educated, we stand with those who have also works with New Mexico Thrives, it is also that of someone who is an of reflection, a day of sorrow, but We are literate, faced annihilation. And we walk and is a certified facilitator for Afro-German Queer Jew. I realize also a day of something else. We are vocal. with the oppressed as our brothers ADL’s Words to Action program. that my lens on history, and spe- Ours is a story of survival. From and sisters, because we know the He also serves as the secretary cifically the Holocaust, is possibly the destruction of two temples, for- And we remembered the Sho- words of Hillel all too well. general on the board of directors different from that of many. eign occupation, expulsion into the ah, and we vowed never again. of the World Congress of GLBT I see the atrocities of the Holo- diaspora, expulsion from our ad- We stood up for ourselves and we Im ‘ein ani li, mi li? Jews: Keshet Ga’avah. From 1997 caust not only in terms of Jewish opted homes, Inquisition, pogroms, found allies. We excelled and tried Uchshe’ani l’atsmi ma ani? to 2009, he was an issue expert on lives that were eradicated, but also demonization, blood libel, we have to assimilate. But our status was al- V’im lo achshav eimatai? independent living, long-term care, as another example of a set of peo- survived it all, and we honor those ways tenuous. We made it through Im lo achshav eimatai? end-of-life, and workforce issues ple consolidating power by identi- who did not survive. the ‘50s and McCarthyism, but for AARP. He has an MA in German fying, vilifying, dehumanizing, and But let us also remember that many a career was destroyed. If I am not for myself, who will studies and critical theory from the ultimately eradicating those who World War II was but a moment be for me? University of Arizona and complet- are different. ago in historical terms. The Ho- The Jew, But if I am for myself alone, ed his thesis at the Europäische The myth of white superiority locaust is unique in history and the Communist, what am I? Akademie Otzenhausen, Germany. (or any other dominant population) in Jewish history. The Nazi party the radical. And if not now, when? creates a synthetic valid (appropri- unabashedly sought the complete ate for procreation, space, freedom, eradication of the Jewish people, We heard the call during the Civ- prosperity) and casts ‘others’ as a and it did so meticulously. So proud il Rights movement of the 60s. We threat to the existence, integrity, were they of ridding the world of joined our African American broth- and homogeneity of that synthetic, us, they kept impeccable records of ers and sisters, holding hands and imposed norm. the experiments, atrocities, intern- declaring we shall overcome. We would like to think the Ho- ment, and ultimate Vernichtung or locaust was a racist anomaly in hu- erasure of our existence. The Jew, man history. Sadly, it is not. There And the irony is that it happened the radical, have been all too many instances in a country where we had enjoyed the social justice warrior. of entire peoples, cultures, and lan- citizenship, had fought alongside as guages that have been completely fellow Germans in World War I. We We made it through the social Your Generosit wiped off the face of the earth, most not only enjoyed relative econom- revolutions of the ‘70s and finally ic, academic and social freedom in the signs that barred us began to y notably since the expansion of Eu- ropean power across the earth. All Germany, we made great contribu- fall. We assimilated. We intermar- tions to German society, culture, ried. We moved out of the ghettos Assure Our Success We offer our thanks tod the Jewish Federation of New Mexico, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Albuquerque, Congratulations to Jonah Minkus on his and the entire Jewish community. graduation from Bosque School. We are so proud of you! PO Box 1762 · Albuquerque · NM · 87103-1762 www.nmholocaustmuseum.org 8 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 Healing and Remembrance: Trudie Strobel and her Tapestries of the Holocaust By Maya Savin Miller camps, and stitching would go on that; I knew that if people every- to save Trudie again as she began to where could share this experience, My parents are secular Jews. As tell her story in needle and thread. it would be a wake-up call to the a young child, I had to beg to go The first time I entered Trudie’s disastrous effects of intolerance, to Hebrew school in southern Cali- living room and saw her amaz- xenophobia and exclusion that con- fornia. When my folks finally gave ing tapestries, I knew I was in the tinue to plague our world. Indeed, in, they sent me to Chabad. I loved presence of a master. I had read a hate crimes are rising within our Chabad, but as I got older, I could lot about the Holocaust growing own borders while memories of the no longer resolve their creationist up, and I had written about geno- Nazi atrocities are fading. More- views with my own. We then joined cide and dehumanization, subjects over, the last living survivors, now a Conservative temple, a storied old that haunt me. But hearing Trudie’s in their eighties and nineties, have congregation that had been hang- stories and studying her artwork such a short time left to share their ing on year after year. I loved that was the kind of profound learning personal experiences. congregation, and the rabbi, Arielle experience—tangible, illustrated, The magnitude of statistics such Hanien, has been one of the great personal-- that could not be quan- as six million perished can easily mentors of my life. When I when tified. Taken together, Trudie Stro- wash over us as intangible abstrac- preparing for my bat mitzvah, bel’s body of work paints a portrait tions, but to bear personal witness studying issues of dehumanization of an artist who survived the brutal to the story of one human being and genocide, Rabbi Hanien ar- waves of racism and xenophobia who survived the most horrific ranged for me to meet Holocaust that sought to kill her. That Trudie childhood experiences is the most survivor Trudie Strobel. can tell her story in thread is noth- visceral way to communicate what Trudie Strobel is a child survivor ing short of miraculous. Trudie’s I see as the modern moral impera- of the Holocaust who wanted to tapestry work is a gift to us and tive: A call for tolerance. forget. For many years, she refused future generations. She is a “tape- My dream was to bring this work to talk about her experiences as a storian” whose work is a testament to the public in a proper gallery prisoner of the Nazis. But the si- to the healing powers of art and a setting where Trudie’s story could (Left to right) Author Jody Savin and Artist Trudy Strobel, photo from lence caught up with her and even- cautionary reminder of the cost of be experienced intimately by Jews Facebook tually pushed her into a crippling silence. and non-Jews alike. And so, I ap- depression. Stitching coats for the Yet this amazing work had nev- plied for a grant from the Dragon Strobel: A Life in Tapestry.” With survivor like Trudie, experience Nazis had enabled Trudie’s moth- er been seen by the public. I knew Kim Foundation to launch a travel- that and several subsequent grants, her work, and know her story, then er to save both of their lives in the right away that I wanted to change ling exhibition which I call “Trudie “A Life in Tapestry” is now in its maybe little by little, and together, third iteration, and I hope it will one we can begin to sow the seeds of day come to an exhibition space a more tolerant and compassionate near you. society. Until that time, I recommend the Maya Savin Miller is a senior book about Trudie’s life and work, at Polytechnic School in Pasade- written by my mother Jody Savin, na California. She heads the poet- and released last year by Prospect ry department of jGirls Magazine Park Books. It is called Stitched & and is a nationally ranked World Sewn: The Life-Saving Art of Holo- Schools debater. Maya’s prose and caust Survivor Trudie Strobel and poetry have appeared in many pub- can be found at any bookstore or lications. Her writing has been rec- online bookseller. ognized by Princeton University, Racism and xenophobia con- Columbia College, Scholastic, Li- tinue to pollute our communities, brary of Congress. She was a 2020 infect our politics, and infest our finalist for Los Angeles Youth Poet way of life. But xenophobia, by Laureate. And her story, “Trud- definition, is born of fear-- fear ie’s Goose,” adapted to film by of the unknown, the different, the award-winning Israeli filmmaker, unknowable. If we can make the Liran Kapel, was a finalist in last unknowable knowable, if we can year’s Cannes Film Festival Amer- humanize the dehumanized, if the ican Pavilion Showcase. perpetrators of racism can meet a Simcha: Aaron Bell Bar Mitzvah Aaron Jordan Bell was called to the Torah on May 15, 2021 to become a bar mitzvah at historic Temple Aaron in Trinidad, Colo- rado. Temple Aaron is one of the oldest synagogues in the country still active, having been founded in 1879. He chanted the Torah portion BaMidbar, (in the desert), where Moses conducts an or- ganized census of the tribes of Israel. Among other stories in this parsha, we are introduced to the priestly blessing, which, Aaron and his decedents are to confer upon Israel. The parsha symbolizes the repeated act of counting and love. One counts and recounts that which he cherishes. Bell is the son of Jon and Sherry Bell, and brother to Alec Bell, who reside in Albuquerque. Aaron attends James Monroe Middle School and enjoys playing Little League and being with his Scottish terrier named Whiskey. His roots in New Mexico and Col- SIMCHA continued on page 9 Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 9 Sublime Moments of Calm By Andrew Balis society fades from consciousness. not have imagined what would Earthlings Again, I am alone, having begun happen in that time: half a million I wake up in the middle of the living by myself shortly before the Americans dead, mass protests for By Rev. Erica Lea-Simka How can we breathe life into night, as I have done many oth- first cases of Covid-19 emerged racial justice, an incumbent pres- ourselves, one another, and the er nights. My house is empty. It in New Mexico. Come morning, ident defeated at the polls, a sys- “At the time when Hashem earth, after the very essence of is dark, and I am alone. I estimate I will have nowhere to go, no one tematic assault on American de- made the heavens and the earth, life has become a symbol of fear, the time to be around 3 or 4 am, to see. My passions and ambitions mocracy. For now, the end of the there was still no wild bush on violence, and destruction? though I cannot know for sure. are, at present, out of reach, and in pandemic is in sight. the earth nor had any wild plant All who breathe are responsible Silence permeates my bedroom, a few hours, I will settle into my The despair that gripped the sprung up, for Hashem had not for the air, so we are responsible disrupted only by the soft murmur restricted, nigh Sisyphean daily country a year ago seems gradually yet sent rain to the earth, and for ourselves and one another. of nearby traffic bleeding through routine. But for these few sublime to be receding, and an atmosphere there was no human being to till I can’t breathe until you can the windows above my head. Slow- moments, the world is immaterial, of hope is taking root in its place. the soil. Instead, a flow of water breathe. Just as Hashem pulled ly, my eyes adjust to the ambient and I am at peace. Yet, I wonder how much of our would well up from the ground the earthling to make two halves, light from the streetlights peeking I know it will not last. Any mo- waking nightmare we’ll remember. and irrigate the soil. So, Hashem what harms one harms us all as through the folds of my blinds. I am ment now, some force beyond my It remains to be seen whether we fashioned an earth creature out of we share the same Creator. Peace overcome by a strange and novel control will conspire to obliterate learn the lessons of this pandemic: the clay of the earth and blew into with Creation begins with peace feeling: calm. the calm in which I’ve cocooned that our fates as human beings are its nostrils the breath of life. And among our own species, human- Of all the feelings and emotions myself. The silence will be pierced intertwined, and that the systems the earth creature became a living ity, our fellow earthlings. COVID that have defined our collective by the lupine howl of distant mo- and institutions that sustain our being… Hashem made the earth has reminded us what our ances- experience of this pandemic (lone- torcycles, the darkness, destroyed lives and happiness are fragile. creature fall into a deep sleep, and tors knew- what happens to one liness, despair, fear, anger, hope) by the illuminated screen of my Likewise, I wonder whether we’ll while it slept, They divided the impacts all. When one state or this one has, for me at least, prov- smartphone. For now, however, develop a strange nostalgia for life earth creature in two, then closed even nation relaxes its COVID en the most alien and inscrutable. I enjoy this reprieve: a pause not in isolation. up the flesh from its side. Hash- precautions its neighbors suffer. It is a feeling at once terrible and only in the dreadful, all-consum- In the coming years, we may find em then fashioned the halves into You and I make we, and only we wonderful, liberating, and yet more ing reality of the pandemic, but the ourselves yearning for its simplic- male and female, and presented together as one can breathe life isolating, still. constant deluge of digital stimuli, ity and sense of inconsequence. them to one another.” [Genesis into our reality as we practice It is a complete absence of mean- and the onslaught of daily routine. We may long for the cacophony 2:4b-7,21-22; Inclusive Bible tikkun olam in harmony with the ingful stimuli, in which the din of I recently received my first dose of “normal” life to subside, and to Translation] Creator. confused half-truths and material of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine. I retreat back within ourselves, to re- COVID is a betrayal of all I Find breath wherever we can to non-choices that define post-indus- could have only dreamt of this mo- capture those sublime moments of have been taught. Breath creates sustain this holy work or repair - trial (and, soon, post-pandemic) ment a year ago. I likewise could calm. life - from Genesis to today, from in flowing water’s oxygen, in one CPR to wind. But then COVID another, from the Source of all taught us that breath can be fa- Breath. We are one. I wait with tal when those dreaded infect- you until we as people can exhale ed moisture particles pass from in shalom together. The Wonders of Hebrew person to person. Since before the pandemic began in the Unit- Rev. Erica Lea-Simka has By Judah Botzer again with the Resh and Chet we see in the ed States in 2020, we have col- served Baptist and Mennonite flower the spirit of the fruit, the progenitor of lectively heard cries of “I can’t congregations in Wyoming, Tex- Imagine a language that does not just help new life. breathe” from African-Americans as, North Carolina, and Wash- express thoughts but helps bring understanding Bread is Lechem: Lamed, Chet, and Mem. on the receiving end of police vi- ington DC. She began serving the to the very words spoken and thus to the sur- The paleo-Hebrew Lamed is a shepherd staff. olence. The very Earth that cra- Albuquerque Mennonite Church rounding world. For Jews that language is in Again, Chet and Mem stand for life. Bread is dles us cries out “I can’t breathe” in November 2017, and lives with our very backyard. truly the staff of life. as we choke ourselves with more her Jewish wife and their two res- Hebrew letters are more than just sounds The word for spaceship earth is Cadur and more CO2. We can’t breathe. cue doggies. RevEricaLea.org along a linear path. Every letter means some- HaAretz, the ball of earth. Six hundred years thing. Two letters combined form concepts ago, the prognosticators of a flat earth, most cer- which build off each letter’s unique qualities. tainly, did not know Hebrew. I will focus on the SIMCHA from page 8 Most Hebrew letters have a three-letter root. word Cadur, ball. Caf is a palm of the hand. On orado began in the early 1900’s, Often, though, words can stem from a two-let- its back, like the letter C on its back, Caf forms when his paternal great-grandfa- ter root. The middle letter of a three-letter root a bowl, a container. Dalet represents ther Morris Bell, three of Morris’ can form two-letter roots both from the right both a door and birth. Dalet, backwards, brothers, and one sister immigrat- and to the left. These two sides having formed spells Teled, she will give birth. An upside ed to Colorado from Lithuania. two new words, often bridge the two new con- down cursive Dalet shows a pregnant woman His paternal great-great uncle cepts to lend understanding to the three-letter The Dalet symbol in paleo-Hebrew is a triangle, Jack Bell married Blanche Cohn root. the very first door we all emerge from. Ca- who was from Trinidad. Rabbi Furthermore, quite profoundly, the let- dur has Cad on the right side and Dur on the Leopold Freudenthal officiated ters Yud, Heh, and Vav, the very letters of the other. Cad is a vessel, and Dur, as in Midurah, their wedding at Temple Aaron. Lord of the Universe, continually weave in and is fire. Are we not on a molten vessel hurtling Aaron’s great-grandfather Morris out of the other nineteen consonants breath- through space? married Ethel Victor in Denver. ing in new life. I will draw upon four familiar These are not random coincidences. Hebrew Later, when Morris attained his words to demonstrate this phenomenon: womb, is the true epitome of intelligent design. Intel- U.S. citizenship, his address was flower, bread, and ball. ligent and wondrous, the very first letter, Alef, in Trinidad. The word for womb is Rechem: Resh, Chet, makes that abundantly clear. Backwards it Trinidad and Temple Aaron and Mem. Resh as in Breishit, in the begin- spells Fela, the wonder, beckoning us to be on carry the memories of Aaron’s ning, Chet for Chaim, life, and Mem, for May- the lookout for the wonders all around us. family in a longstanding sanc- im, water, explicitly describe the amniotic sac. Judah Botzer has been teaching Hebrew for tuary boasting an old European Aaron Bell With the Vav connecting the Resh and the Chet, the last 45 years. He also prepares students for feel constructed of red brick and we have Ruach, spirit. Thus, in the womb we bar and bat mitzvahs. He grew up in Cleveland, stone, an onion twist dome and towering stain glassed windows built over have the spirit of life. , moved to Israel where he served as a a 100 years ago also known as the oldest temple west of the Mississippi. The word flower is Perach: Peh, Resh, paratrooper in the Israeli Defense Forces and As Aaron was called to become bar mitzvah; around 50 family and and Chet. There in the Peh, the mouth, of the has lived in Taos County for the past 30 years. friends surrounded him. He also had his ancestors smiling down from flower, we have the beginning of new life. Contact him at [email protected] and above. The bar mitzvah service on Saturday was officiated remotely by The Peh and the Resh produce fruit, Pri, and (575) 751-0779. Rabbi Harry Rosenfeld, and Cantor Barbara Finn via Congregation Al- bert’s Zoom feed. There was also a Friday Shabbat service led by Rabbi Robert Lennick and Cantor Michael Linder in Trinidad. 10 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 Community-wide Effort to Assure Jewish Tomorrows Achieves $5.6 DONOR Million in Endowment Commitments New Mexico’s LIFE pating in the program. SPOTLIGHT & LEGACY participants Deborah Avren, continue to help build board chair of HaMa- Diana and Jeff Paul endowments to support kom shared, “LIFE & the organizations and LEGACY has been causes near and dear to important to us be- their hearts. Despite the cause it has given so pandemic, and perhaps many of our members because donors recog- a chance to step up nized the importance of and be counted, for planning for unforeseen today and for tomor- future challenges, the en- row…It is an affirma- dowment initiative made tion of commitment Being Jewish and having a Jewish on many fronts. on behalf of this tiny community has always been import- Three years into the but devoted commu- ant to Jeff and Diana Paul. The couple four-year LIFE & LEG- nity in Santa Fe.” joined Congregation Albert in 1991 Shirley Morrison, LIFE & LEG- after their daughter was born. Since ACY initiative: 276 do- ACY participant HaMakom Hazzan nors committed to make Cindy Freedman add- then they have been active members, a legacy gift to one or ed, “LIFE & LEGA- board members, and have been very more local Jewish organizations, and 60% CY has brought to mind, heart and action involved with the Sisterhood and of those commitments are formalized. The the awareness and delight of demonstrat- Brotherhood. Temple Albert gave total estimated value of endowment gift ing in the continuity of Jewish life them a Jewish place to raise their daughter, where she could have Jewish friends and a Jewish commitments reached $5.6 million with in New Mexico.” education. The Pauls are regulars at Cafe Shabbat and other services every month (both in over $426,000 received-to-date. A total of LIFE & LEGACY promotes after-life- person and virtual). almost $100,000 in incentive grants will time giving to benefit Jewish organiza- Jeff and Diana are leaving an after-lifetime gift to Congregation Albert’s endowment be- have been provided to the participating tions. The nationwide program, launched cause they understand how important having a Jewish community and religious community organizations as they strengthen connec- by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, em- have been to their family. As Jeff said, “one of the best ways to keep Jewish history and cul- tions with their donors and build a culture phasizes stewardship and formalization of ture alive is to keep synagogues and congregations alive.” The Pauls were excited to partici- of legacy giving to sustain our Jewish legacy gifts and promotes collaboration pate as LIFE & LEGACY donors because it’s a program anyone can participate in; it doesn’t community for generations to come. that strengthens our entire community. matter how much you give, it matters that you are involved. Congregations Albert, B’nai Israel, Ha- LIFE & LEGACY NM is funded by the Jeff retired as the director of recreation therapy at the VA Medical Center in 2007. Diana is Makom, Nahalat Shalom, Temple Beth Grinspoon Foundation, the Jewish Com- an “almost” retired professional bookkeeper. Shalom as well as the Jewish Care Pro- munity Foundation of New Mexico and Aviva Maxon, JCF NM summer intern, interviewed Jeff & Diana, and worked with them to gram, JCC, Jewish Federation of NM and the Jewish Federation of New Mexico. create this donor spotlight. NM Jewish Historical Society are partici-

ENCUENTRO STUDENT $15,000 in Grants SPOTLIGHT to Support Maria Regina Castillo Betancourt Refugees Encuentro, an Immigrant and Refugee Assistance Fund grantee, & Immigrants received support for its adult edu- cation programs, including teach- A Jewish community response to the welfare and safe- ing English as a second language ty needs of immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees in (ESL) for citizenship classes. Albuquerque and New Mexico continued for a fourth Maria Regina Catillo Betan- year. The Jewish Community Foundation of New Mex- court has been a student at En- ico awarded grants totaling $15,000 to six nonprofit cuentro since 2016. Over the agencies in April. years, she successfully complet- The Foundation made grants from its donor-supported ed English as a second language Immigrant & Refugee Assistance Fund to: Albuquerque (ESL) classes, high school equiv- FaithWorks Collaborative for the Albuquerque asylum alency, ESL for citizenship, and seekers food box distribution program; EL CENTRO de graduated as a home health aide. Igualdad y Derechos for inclusive COVID relief advo- She has served as an Encuentro cacy; New Mexico Asian Family Center for support for volunteer, emceed several com- young families with children; La Plaza de Encuentro for munity-wide events, participated their English classes for citizenship; New Mexico Immi- with El Centro in the legislative grant Law Center for their pro bono and volunteer pro- process and civic engagement, gram; and United Voices for Newcomer Rights for the supported phone calls for the Refugee Wellbeing Project. home health program and, on Jan- Donors interested in contributing to the Immigrant uary 8, 2021, became a citizen of and Refugee Assistance Fund to help provide grants in the United States. 2022 can donate online via the “Donate Now” link on “Now that I am a citizen, I have a sense of security and safety that all people deserve to have. With my top of the Foundation’s home page, jcfnm.org. For ad- legal status, comes a freedom to do everyday activities such as advocate for my grandchildren in their ditional information, contact Erika Rimson, (505) 348- schools, obtain a driving license or enter a federal building without fear. Thanks to Encuentro, I’m proud 4472, [email protected]. to have the opportunity to vote and elect people who represent me.” Maria Regina Castillo Betancourt (Reprinted with permission from Encuentro) Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 11 Thank You for helping create a bright future. L’Chaim New Mexico – Shine On! We’re grateful to those who have made commitments to sustain our NM Jewish community with a gift in their will, trust, retirement account or life insurance policy.

The Abeles Foundation, Kathy & Rick Abeles Emily Blaugrund Fox Sylvia & Richard LaPan Lois & Tom Ruby Lisa G. Adelman The Joseph C. & Esther Foster Foundation Margery Lazar Laurie & Harvey Ruskin Carolee & Harold Albert Doris Francis-Erhard Charna Lefton Ahava Broock & Howie Sagrans Dorothy Corner Amsden Hazzan Cindy Freedman Linda Lefton Naomi Sandweiss Rabbis Jenny & Neil Amswych Talia Freedman Loretta Lamar & Rabbi Dr. Rob Lennick Ellen J. Satz Samantha Lapin & Dale Atkinson Emily & Noah Freedman Frances Levine Misha Sauceda-Halliday Deborah Avren Carla Freeman, z”l Norma Libman Jane & Arnold Schamban, z”l Nikihanna Baptiste Debra Wechter Friedman & Howard Friedman Laurie & Angela Lindendill Mark Schechter Carole Beckhoff, z”l Myra Segal & Tom Friedmann Mina Jo & Michael Linver In memory of David A. Schnitzer, z”l Julia & Lance Bell Cheryl Ganch Leslie & Chip Livingston Barry Schrager Rimson Bernstein Family Ronnie Chavez & Andrew Gans Cynthia & David London Paula Schwartz Rhea Bertelli, z”l Sonya Priestly & Art Gardenswartz Cindy & Neil Lyon Paula & Mel Schwartz Melissa Binder Shirley & Harold, z”l Gardenswartz Jess Fulton & Emet Ma’ayan Meryl Manning Segel & Ron Segel Paula, z”l & David Blacher Rabbi Dov Gartenberg Ruth Ma’ayan Deborah S. Seligman Nancy & Cliff Blaugrund Sy Baldwin & Sheila Gershen Kathleen Kahn Mahon, MD & William P.J. Mahon Joan Shandler Billie Parker & Gay Block Elliot Gerson Gabrielle Maisels Colin Shaw Jamie Blosser Linda Schoen Giddings & Daryl Giddings Steven P. Margulin, CPA, CFP Danielle & Bob Shelley Lori & Bryan Bobrick Linda & Ed Goff Josie Lopez & Alan, Anila & Sydney Marks Judith & Martin Sherman Tania & Wayne Bobrick Sandy Gold Nancy Koenigsberg & Dan Matthews Beverly & Rabbi Jack Shlachter Eva & Edward Borins Michael Gold Marina Efroymson & Eric Maxon Judy Brown & Henry Shonerd Yael McKeever & Rabbi Deborah Brin Beth Goldman Rachmana Rivqa AKA Claudia B. Meyers Patricia & David Shulman Marcelle Grant & Alan Brody Larissa Myaskovsky & Russell Goldstein Dorothea Migliori Leora Jaeger-Siegel & Malcolm Siegel, Ph.D. Cherri Hudson-Brown & Jeffrey Brown Ellen Goldstein Drs. Karen & Phil Milstein Atma Wiseman & Joy Silver Meredith & Michael Brown Gary Goodman Sabra Minkus Marian & Abe, z”l Silver Christine & Harvey Buchalter Len Goodman Beth, z”l & Steve Moise Ann & David Simon Helene Silverblatt & Robert Buser & Family Gail & Marvin Gottlieb Ruth Shore Mondlick Elisa & Toby Simon Charles Buxbaum Jean & Bob Gough Jenny & Jason Moran Rosalie & Stuart Simon Diane D. Buxbaum Havi & Dave Graeber Janice & Marshall Moranz Rae Lee Siporin Patricia Carlton Marcia Greenbaum Shirley Morrison Vivian & George Skadron Emma & Bob Casey Paul Greenbaum Ann Morrison Paul R. Sklar Nori Yonack & Robert Choate Helen Grevey Rabbi Ben Morrow, z”l Robert Spitz Diane & Alan Chodorow Adrienne & Damien Grieser Andy Moss, z”l Marilyn & Stanley Stark Rabbi Paul & Susan Citrin Barbara & Philip Gudwin Riette Mugleston Steve Stearns Rachel Cogent Glorya Hale Jennie L. Negin Robin & Scott Steinberg Stuart Cohen Karen & Richard Hammer Pat & Dan Newman Wendy Steinberg Cantor Beth Cohen Margaret Elliston & Fred Harris Sarah R. Newman Thomas W. Strain, MD Richard Cook Gloria Abella Ballen & Ron Duncan Hart Diane (Dena) Palley Marcia Torobin Rhonda Manthei & Jessica Corley Betty Lee & Dr. Keith Harvie Janice & Stuart Paster Drew Tulchin Meta Hirschl & Bob Davis Terry Lee Heller Diana & Jeffrey Paul Deborah Tyroler Lynn McKelvey & Glenn Dickter Jill Heppenheimer K.R. Perlow Anne Owen McCormick & Alan Wagman Sandra & David Dietz Jay Hertz, z”l Lynne & Jerome Pfeffer Brenda & Ken Warner Melissa K. Drolet Jessica Herzstein Batya Podos Iris S. Weinstein Madeline Dunn Ethel Hess Marci & Kevin Powers Wells Family Fund Eleanor Edelstein Eileen Grevey Hillson & David Hillson Shelly & Gary Prant Nicole & Jim Werkmeister Andy Edwards Mindi Horwitch Noel Pugach Nancy & Ronald Winger Mimi Efroymson Tova Indritz Elaine Meizlish & Barbara Radov Sarah J. Winger Steven G. Farber Randee B. Kaiser & David S. Janik Anna Rayne-Levi Phyllis & David Wolf Halley S. Faust Catherine Joy Sidney P. Redner Carolyn & Aaron Wolf Toby Fedoravicius Judith Kaiser, z”l Liz Levine & Andrew Resnick Ellen Light & Marc Wunder Sunny Sonnenschein & Stuart Feen Debra Terri Kane Sandra P. & Clifford E. Richardson Margaret B. Yonack Cynthia Feiden-Warsh Rabbi Min Kantrowitz Arlene, z”l & Ira Rimson Judith Zabel Stephen Feinberg Susan Jo Keller Deborah Weinberg & Lou Ringe Paula & Jerold Zieselman Margrethe & William Feldman Bo Keppel Julie Rivers Anonymous (34) Barbara (Bobbie) Ferrell Ellen & Mike Kivitz Joan E. Robins Joanne & Art Fine Shelley & Herb Koffler Robin Fisher Roffer z”l of blessed memory Elynn & Martin Finston Nunzio M. LaCarrubba Marjorie Rogers As of 4/15/21 Linda & Martin Fisher Michelle Laflamme-Childs Steven A. Rogers Names in bold have formalized their Suzanne Breslauer & Norman Flax Barbara & Heath LaMont Jane Wishner & Robert Rosenberg commitments Harold Folley Bernice & Hesh, z”l Langner Robert Rubenstein

The first three years of New Mexico’s LIFE & LEGACY initiative generated an estimated $5.6 million in future endowment gifts for local organizations – with $426,000 realized-to-date! Participating organizations: Congregation Albert u Congregation B’nai Israel u Congregation Nahalat Shalom u HaMakom u Jewish Care Program JCC of Greater Albuquerque u Jewish Federation of New Mexico u New Mexico Jewish Historical Society u Temple Beth Shalom

How can YOU join us to help assure Jewish tomorrows in NM? Contact a participating organization or Erika Rimson, Jewish Community Foundation of NM [email protected] – 505.348.4472 • jcfnm.org/legacy Jewish Community Foundation of NM is a beneficiary agency of Jewish Federation of NM 12 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 JCC Simchas: Announcing New Staff Roles and Promotions By Shelly Prant Since moving to Albuquerque seven years title. with older adults. She looks forward to cre- ago, Emily has worked at the UNM Foun- From the NYC area originally, Phyllis ven- ating exciting programs which engage, teach The JCC is pleased to announce a series dation and then served as executive director tured to the Midwest for a bachelor’s degree and entertain this population. of exciting promotions for our development of the Albuquerque Museum Foundation. in psychology and theatre from Beloit Col- and programming staff. Emily Blaugrund She has two adult children, Christina, who lege, Wisconsin and a master’s degree in so- Maya Siler Fox has been hired as our chief development lives in Italy with her husband and 3 sons, cial work and business from the University of Arts and Culture Program Administrator officer. She brings extensive fundraising and Taylor, who’s a captain in the Air Force Chicago. She and her husband, David, have Maya be- knowledge and experience to her position. Reserve flying the F22 and a pilot for Del- been married for 36 years, and they have two gan her Jew- In addition to donor cultivation, Emily will ta Airlines. Emily loves being back in the adult sons, Dylan, senior operations manager ish communal be identifying grants and leading the NM Southwest, closer to her large family here for Alorica, and Miles, VP business banker at professional Humanitarian Awards Event. Phyllis Wolf is and in El Paso. She looks forward to meet- First Citizens, both in Albuquerque. career at the also recognized for her longstanding leader- ing members of our community and working San Anto- ship of the Arts, Culture, and Education De- together to ensure that our JCC is sustainable Jill Patruznick nio, TX JCC, partment (ACE) and now will become the for the future. Cultural Programs Coordinator upon grad- chief programs officer. Jill Patruznick will be Jill has been in- uating from taking a more substantial role in the cultural Phyllis Wolf volved for many Trinity Uni- department, and will share responsibilities Chief Programs Officer years in Jewish versity there. with Maya Siler. Phyllis began community life. She served her tenure over She started her for 5 years in Emily Blaugrund Fox 15 years ago as professional career various roles, Chief Development Officer program direc- with the Jewish all of which greatly contributed to her hitting Emily was tor of the cultur- Federation of Las the ground running in 2018 when she joined born and raised al department. Vegas, NV. Given the Cultural team of our JCC. She and her in El Paso and In short order, her love and pas- husband Dr. Dan Levin moved here for his is a graduate of Phyllis devel- sion for working post-residency fellowship. Maya grew up in the University oped a robust with youth, Jill Santa Fe, so their adjustment was easy. Her of Texas and roster of events, went on to work valuable contributions during her tenure have worked in the programs, class- for Hillel at UNLV. She has been employed included coordinating our Wednesday pro- banking indus- es, festivals and at our JCC since 2018, originally hired as gram for older adults, and running both the try. Emily relo- series - including Book Fest and visiting au- coordinator of ABQ NoshFest. Jill has also Film and Book Fest’s websites, ticketing, and cated to Spring- thor series, Film Fest, Nosh Fest, Hanukkah helped coordinate the Latka Vodka event and social media. field, MO where Fest, art shows, older adult programming, the NM Humanitarian Awards. Maya and Dan are moving to Charleston she lived for 25 language, art, and Jewish interest classes. She has been married for 21 years to Kev- for two years so that he may complete anoth- years and raised Under her leadership the department evolved in and relocated to Albuquerque with their er specialized cardiology fellowship. She is her family. She to its current iteration: ACE (Arts, Culture, daughters in 2013. They recently celebrated expecting a baby soon. Maya is thrilled to be served on the board of the start-up of the Dis- Education). Phyllis also heads up media re- their youngest Mylah becoming a bat mitz- able to begin motherhood in a new city while covery Center of Springfield and subsequent- lations for the JCC - authoring articles, press vah and are overjoyed that Samara will be staying connected to our JCC in her new, ly became its executive director/CEO for 13 releases, marketing pieces and coordinating traveling to Rome in the fall to attend John more limited role, which will have an admin- years. She was awarded the Governor’s (Mis- broadcast media appearances. For her dedi- Cabot University, followed by Tulane Uni- istrative focus. We are delighted that she will souri) Award for Economic Development for cated years of programming excellence and versity in the spring. Jill’s current position continue to serve our community from afar. the Discovery Center of Springfield. initiative, she is recognized with this new at the JCC has expanded to include working JCC Community Garden – A Dream Taking Root By Phyllis Wolf

The concept for the community garden was seeded two years ago by Shelly Prant, CEO, Eric Maxon, JCC past president (2018-2020), Marina Efroymson and Summer Minger from HomeServe, knowing they were looking to support a community project which in- spired them. We presented our vision: a place where people of all ages could garden together to serve the less fortunate, learn, grow, and gather in a place that would be both beautiful and purposeful. The garden would serve as a place to educate our community about cultiva- tion, composting, sustainability, and water harvesting. HomeServe subsequently provid- ed $5,000 to launch the intergenerational community garden. The JCC Community Garden is inspired by the enduring value of tikkun olam, repair- ing the world, l’dor v’dor, the imperative that we pass on our earth from generation to generation, and shomrei adamah, we are guardians of the earth. The plans for the garden were developed by the steering committee: Melanie Mayo and Marina Efroymson, co- chairs, were joined by Sonya Priestly, Jim Folkman, and Sherman Levinson, using a 3,000 square foot area on the southeast side of the former Schechter day school. The plan encompasses three phases. Phase one is complete with five fruit trees growing, an umbrella and picnic table for shade and benches for relaxing. Phase two has already begun and will include a pergola, supply shed, planters, composting, a water feature and vegetables. All the produce grown will go to Shalom House and the greater com- munity. Al Brody and his family provided a very generous gift as did Jim Folkman’s Foundation For Building which covered the expense of GroundWork Studio architects who rendered the drawing. For further information, call Shelly Prant, JCC CEO at (505) 332-0565, ext. 4449. To make a donation, go to Jccabq.org and select the Donate button. Please come by and see the progress this enthusiastic and hard-working committee has made! Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 13

How to Attend Celebrating Exceptional Individuals: This year the event will be held in two ways: Honorees and event sponsors will attend The 2021 New Mexico Humanitarian Awards in person at the JCC; while ta- By Emily Blaugrund Fox and of Greater Albuquerque. It rais- She started Keshet in 1996 ble sponsors and ticket holders Phyllis Wolf es critical dollars to support the with the mission of utilizing the will attend the event virtually. Family Enrichment Center pre- arts as a catalyst for change, and Tables and tickets are on sale The 2021 New Mexico Hu- school’s families-in-need, many one year later began teaching now. Please consider inviting manitarian Awards (NMHA) cel- of whom are children of essential dance in NM’s juvenile prison a group to create a table for ebration will be held on Sunday, workers, as well as the JCC’s tik- system. She developed Kesh- $1,500 or purchase individual August 15. NMHA was created in kun olam projects. These provide et’s M3 program (Movement + tickets for $150 each. 2008 to honor New Mexicans who critical community services and Mentorship = Metamorphosis). Table sponsors and ticket have demonstrated an exemplary include meals for HopeWorks, M3 includes accredited, move- purchasers will be able to en- spirit of humanity. Organized and and collections for Roadrunner ment-based curriculum taught joy special treats at home. For sponsored by the JCC, in con- Food Bank, Title I schools, Lock- in the on-site high school within table sponsors, you can host up junction with outstanding local er 505 and Haven House. Pro- the juvenile prison, which fo- to 10 guests and the JCC will community partners, NMHA cel- ceeds from this event will also cuses on math, science, literacy, provide one themed appetizer ebrates those who have selflessly support Camp Chai scholarships Shira Greenberg and conflict resolution skills, in platter of your choice for your devoted themselves to help oth- (the JCC summer day camp) for addition to maintaining student/ enjoyment during the event. ers. Each award recognizes the families-in-need. Camp Chai will year. A more complete descrip- mentor relationships throughout Platters will be designed espe- pursuit of humanitarian goals, in- be running this summer at 50% tion of their humanitarian contri- and beyond the parole and rein- cially for this event by Gour- cluding the promotion of human capacity. butions will be highlighted at the tegration process. met to Go, and M’Tucci’s. th welfare, care and compassion, event on August 15 . In 2016, Keshet began the They can be delivered to your social reform, philanthropy, and The 2021 Humanitarian Shira Greenberg, founder and process of codifying and shar- home by JCC staff/volunteers values-based investing. Award Honorees artistic director of Keshet Center ing the M3 program nationally, or picked up at the JCC. Ticket The NMHA event honors three The NMHA steering commit- for Dance and the Arts, will re- piloting in five cities across the purchasers will have an op- outstanding humanitarians doing tee, is chaired by JCC board mem- ceive the Harold B. Albert Award United States. In 2019, Kesh- portunity to come by the JCC extraordinary work in the state of ber, Debra Wechter Friedman. for Community Service. This et’s Arts and Justice Initiatives to pick-up Eldora Chocolate New Mexico. NMHA also honors This year’s honorees were chosen award recognizes those whose formally expanded to include Treats to enjoy for dessert. a Jewish community leader with by secret ballot’ and tallied after service to the Jewish communi- policy/advocacy, return-to-work Reserve your table or tick- the Harold B. Albert Award in discussion of the merits of each. ty reflects the highest integrity, opportunities, field research, and ets now by calling or emailing recognition of outstanding com- We are thrilled to announce that love and compassion for others, the development of a cohesive Emily at [email protected] munity service. In addition to Fred Nathan, founder/executive and a demonstrated commitment network of arts and justice part- or (505) 332-0565, extension identifying and awarding these director of Think New Mexico; to the ideals of Jewish life. Ms. ners throughout the state. More 4450. Every dollar raised helps exceptional individuals and or- Mary Martinez, owner of Home Greenberg’s accomplishments in of Ms. Greenberg’s many contri- strengthen our community. ganizations, this event is also an Instead; and the NM Immigrant service to others so clearly war- butions to our community will be important fundraiser for the JCC Law Center will be honored this rants this recognition. shared at the event. 14 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 Presenting the Miller Introduction to Judaism Course ism. The course is a dive deep into tikkun olam), and spiritual practices free to new Congregation B’nai at B’nai Israel will start on Tuesday, Jewish tradition, heritage, culture, (musar, kavanah-intentionality). Israel members who join in the October 5, 2021, 7-8:30pm, with and ideas to extract the most power- • Basic Hebrew reading skills in- 2020-2021 year. All B’nai Israel weekly Tuesday evening classes ful concepts to help us find meaning cluding the ability to phonetically members receive significant dis- meeting through May of 2022 for a in our lives today. As an affiliate of read Hebrew words of easy to mod- counts on tuition. Scholarship is total of 35 hours of interactive learn- the Miller program, Congregation erate difficulty, as well as recognize available for persons in the com- ing. B’nai Israel will be able to offer one certain frequently used prayer book munity considering the program. Congregation B’nai Israel will of the outstanding curricula on Ju- and Biblical Hebrew terms. Our goal in bringing this excellent hold an open house on August 15 daism to our membership as well as program to Congregation B’nai Isra- and September 12 to share informa- the wider community. Who is MITJ for? el is to offer to our members and to tion about the program, its curricu- • Congregation B’nai Israel mem- potential members a path not only to lum, and the learning experience. What do MITJ participants bers and members of the Jewish a better understanding of Judaism, Meanwhile, if you are interested in learn? community who wish to gain a com- but to create a space for our mem- the MITJ program, please indicate • The major events and trends in prehensive understanding of Juda- bers to study and grow Jewishly to- your interest by signing up at the Jewish history, from the Biblical pe- ism and to fill in gaps in their Jewish gether. The course also offers a path following link. You will be eligible riod to the present day, and under- education. to conversion to Judaism for loved for an early bird discount which we Rabbi Dov Gartenberg stand their significance for Jewish • Intermarried and intercultural ones and friends who have decided will announce late spring or early self-awareness. couples who are seeking to explore to formalize their ties to the Jewish summer. The Miller Introduction to Juda- • The major festivals of the Jew- the role Judaism will play in their community. Most of all the MITJ Link for those interested in ism Program (MITJ) will be offered ish calendar, along with their basic lives and the lives of their children. program offers a life transforming learning more about the 2021- again at Congregation B’nai Israel stories, themes, observances, and • Non-Jewish individuals who opportunity to learn about Judaism 2022 New Mexico Miller In- in the 2021-2022 year. This highly spirituality. are curious about Judaism and are for persons in our community and troduction to Judaism Program: regarded national program, devel- • The rituals of the Jewish lifecy- seeking alternatives to their faith of in our state. Tuition rates will be https://www.signupgenius.com/ oped and implemented originally at cle, including ceremonies to mark origin. announced this summer. Currently, go/8050545AAAC2DA4F85-cbiadult American Jewish University in Los birth, adolescence, marriage, and • Persons who are considering we are preparing to offer MITJ as For more information on the Angeles, offers an experiential and death. conversion to Judaism or Jews who an in-person class with the option Miller Introduction to Judaism or to engaging, welcoming and meaning- • The practices of Jewish dai- are seeking to reconnect to Jewish of participating remotely. Our Zoom request an application contact vol- ful learning path into Judaism. This ly observance, in ritual practices life and community. format enables people from all over unteer, Suzanne Savage by calling class is for people who have a curi- (Shabbat, kashrut, and prayer), This class is open to the wid- New Mexico to participate. her at (505) 600-5530 or email: Su- osity and desire to learn about Juda- ethical (tzedakah, gemilut hasadim, er community. The program is The Miller Introduction Program [email protected]. Who Loves Ya, Baby? Rabbi Paul Citrin

One of my favorite TV shows of the mid-1970s was Kojak, the lollipop ARE YOU A sucking, bald, New York cop starring Telly Savalas. His signature line was, “Who loves ya, Baby?” The question implied “I love ya!” But, Kojak nev- er used the first person pronoun. FAMILY During the last few years, I have noticed that many people say upon ending a visit or a phone call "Love you." My question is what happened to the "I" before the verb? CAREGIVER? One answer to my question may be found in the calligraphy of the first word in the Book of Leviticus. That first word is Vayikra, with the final letter, aleph, written smaller than the other letters in that word. Why is the last letter shrunken or reduced? Vayikra means “God called” (to Moses). Caregiving for a loved one The letter aleph is also the first letter of the word ani which means “I.” Chassidic teachers claimed if you want to be able to hear the divine voice can be overwhelming and calling you, you must shrink your I, your ego. We may derive from this a isolating. This group provides similar message about “Love you.” Removing our self, our “I” could mean we are focusing more on the a compassionate space for person we are addressing than on our own ego. That may be commend- caregivers to gain emotional able and the true gateway to loving another person. On the other hand, the immediate impression I get from “Love you” is support and information. a spectrum of messages. Dropping the “I” may suggest embarrassment to fully express tender emotion. A casual “Love you” can become a per- functory sign-off. “Love you” apparently has good intention and positive sentiment, but omitting “I” seems to undermine or displace the message. The full sentence, "I love you" is meant to establish a balance between Take a step to care for the subject and the object. I can only love you out of my own personhood. I can only love you by recognizing that your humanity is wholly equal to yourself – come to the free and like my own. Authentic love is manifest through subject and object Caregiver Support Group giving full verbal expression, and through I and you being present and doing for one another. Aside from my difficulty with "Love you," I write this piece because our ancient Jewish love holiday is coming on July 24th. On the Hebrew calendar, that date is Tu b’Av (the fifteenth of Av). Talmud Ta’anit tells us it was a day on which young single women put on white dresses, went into Tuesdays, from 2-3pm Israel’s fields and vineyards to chase after the young men they fancied who Preregistration required (505) 348-4451 were harvesting grapes. The text also says the girls did this on Yom Kippur as well (beats fasting!) Tu b’Av is our ancient Jewish equivalent of a com- bined Valentine and Sadie Hawkins’ Day. We men, on July 24th will gladly accept gifts, red wine, roses and dark chocolate, from the women in our OPEN TO ALL lives. Certainly, such remembrances will answer, “Who loves ya, Baby?” Jewish Federation of New Mexico | 5520 Wyoming Blvd NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 | jewishnewmexico.org Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 15

Jewish Complementary Despite Pandemic, Mitzvah Projects Education: Moving Forward Continue at Congregation B’nai Israel Story and photo by Sarah Rachel Egelman By Sarah Rachel Egelman details. Rabbi Sacks also wrote, “educa- Virtual learning has not been tion means teaching a child to be Even with the challenges After more than a full year with without its benefits. At my school curious, to wonder, to reflect, to of being physically distanced online learning and looking ahead we have brought in guests from enquire. The child who asks be- and during a year of virtu- to some in person possibilities, around the country and from Is- comes a partner in the learning al classes, the students at the congregational Jewish youth edu- rael to speak on everything from process, an active recipient. To cation has done a lot of reflecting living in Israel, to social justice ask is to grow.” Academy of Jewish Learning and learned a great deal. Across issues, to Yiddish folktales. We As we stand poised to embrace at Congregation B’nai Israel the country, synagogue to syna- have collaborated on events and a “new normal” with Covid-19, were focused on helping oth- gogue and home to home, Jewish lessons, Zooming with a school we are charged with strategizing ers through a series of mitz- families and educators have risen in Georgia and with other schools a new normal of Jewish educa- vah projects. to meet new challenges, rethink in Albuquerque. We have taken tion in which we partner with The school year started Hebrew School models, and think private virtual museum tours in our learners to foster the kind of with a non-perishable food creatively about what it is we New York City and done artistic curiosity, wonder, reflection, and drive which collected over 93 pounds of food for Roadrunner Food hope our young learners gain. Hebrew art lessons with a rabbi in inquiry that helps them achieve Bank. October became “Socktober” with a sock collection for unhoused As I wrote in the winter 2020 Pittsburgh. their learning goals, helps ensure people served by A Light in the Night, bringing in about 70 pairs of issue of this publication (“Innova- We hope to continue to think a strong Jewish future, and nur- new, warm socks. The year ended with a book drive. Students, fami- tion, Compassion and Resilience beyond our school walls, even tures proud and knowledge young lies, friends, and congregants donated over 175 books to incarcerated in Jewish Complementary Educa- when we return to learning in- Jews. youth at the Bernalillo County Juvenile Detention Center and over 300 tion”), “in this space of tension, side them. Moving to a very vi- Sarah Rachel Egelman is the books for the Animal Humane Thrift Store. Most mitzvah projects at of worry, and uncertainty, Jewish sual platform has also meant we school director for the Academy the school are conceived of and organized by the Confirmation students. educators have found that creativ- have been able to better represent of Jewish Learning at Congrega- ity, compassion, and community the real diversity of Judaism by tion B’nai Israel. are not only necessary tools but selecting images and videos that habits of the mind and heart that show Jews of all ethnic, cultural, will ensure that young Jews will racial backgrounds and all body continue to find the connections types. This is another habit that that are key to Jewish identity is imperative to continue to cul- and practice.” Months later, and tivate. looking ahead toward possible Rabbi Jonathan Sacks was oft re-openings of school doors, it is quoted from his 1999 book, Will essential that what educators have We Have Grandchildren; “The learned about our work continues fate of the Jews in the diaspora to inform what we share with our was, is and predictably will be, students. determined by their commitment There have been myriad obsta- to Jewish education.” This pres- cles to overcome: How to work sure on Jewish complementary through Hebrew primers? How do education to ensure the future of we sing together on Zoom? How the Jewish people is common. A important is it to have cameras on perspective shift, as we are cur- during virtual school? What about rently experiencing, is perhaps a families without reliable tech and way to meet this goal with all the Wi-Fi? What about children who rigor, joy, , and honoring struggle with attention and focus of learners we can muster. Indeed, while online? For each issue, educators brain- stormed, researched, discussed, innovated and pivoted to new modes of instruction, use of new tools, new lesson plans, new cur- riculum. And, perhaps most in- terestingly, they found new goals and objectives. This year teach- ers, clergy, and families have sought out approaches to engage young learners where they are, physically and emotionally, and with the diverse Judaism and per- sonal Jewishness they bring to us. In short, this year successful Jew- ish education has been student centered and circumstances have forced educators to look critically at objectives and curriculum. This work is, and should be, ongoing, setting a new standard. The wrinkles are not ironed out yet, but the ironing itself is valu- able work. We should continue to strive for enlightened approaches 4401 Indian School Road, NE to Jewish education that is both Albuquerque, NM 87110 broad in its worldview, inclusive Tel. (505) 266-0155 in its recognition of Jewish identi- www.bnaiisrael-nm.org ty, and still focused on curricular 16 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 HaMakom’s Book Club Flourishes in ZoomLand By Susan Jo Keller joined the group in the past year. The book choices lean heav- A table in a quiet library was ily toward fiction, although Dr. once big enough for a comfort- Schoen Giddings noted that the able meeting of the HaMakom club did read a number of non-fic- Book Club in Santa Fe. tion books to complement the But it would be a tight squeeze Santa Fe Jewish Film Festival’s if that room had to accommodate focus on Jews from Arab coun- the readers who have flocked tries. Those titles included “The to the group’s discussions since Aleppo Codex” and “Spies of April 2020. No Country” by Matti Friedman; As so many other organizations “Out of Egypt” by Andre Aciman have learned during the pandem- and “My Father’s Paradise” by ic, if you Zoom it, they will come. Ariel Sabar. And come they do — former Not surprisingly, many of the day’s headlines. because she is not Jewish. But Another book-club regular, HaMakom members, friends and books touch on Israel, which Ms. When the pandemic start- she was intrigued by her friend’s Deborah Avren, who is HaMa- relatives, both Jews and non- Carlton finds particularly appeal- ed, the club pivoted quickly praise for the quality of the dis- kom’s board president, said, “We Jews, from Connecticut and Cal- ing. to Zoom format, missing only cussions. continue to monitor the Covid ifornia, from Mexico and Maine, “Either they are set in Israel, one meeting scheduled for the “She said that it was very well situation and the need for com- and even, on occasion, from Isra- like ‘Three Floors Up,’ which I Monday when New Mexico first run, and she was right,” Ms. Ev- munity safety. And, we are very el. While the in-person meetings enjoyed immensely, or the char- shut down. ans said. “This is the rare book hopeful and excited that when drew a half-dozen participants, acters have connections to Israel The transition was facilitated group that does a good job of in-person gathering becomes a the Zoom screen has regularly and/or travel there,” she said. “I by HaMakom’s Hazzan, Cindy sticking to the topic.” valid option, we will joyously be been filled with three times that don’t know if it’s a ‘Jewish thing’, Freedman, who has immersed Dr. Schoen Giddings suggested meeting in our new home in the many. but the inner life of the characters herself in mastering the technolo- that Zoom is a factor in keeping upper sanctuary of Temple Beth Linda Schoen Giddings found- drives the plot as much or more gy, to enhance the congregation’s the discussions focused. “Maybe Shalom.” ed the HaMakom club several than the actual events. The people music-filled Shabbat services. because all of us aren’t from the At least one of the club’s years ago with two guiding con- seem very real, very human, if A highlight of the pandemic same place, not all from HaMa- long-distance fans is thinking cepts: It would read books with flawed, and their reactions to the year reading list was “Apeiro- kom, the focus is on the book, not ahead to the time when regular Jewish content and it would be events are very real.” gon” by Colum McCann. chatter.” in-person meetings resume. Ms. egalitarian, with choice of books Unlike many book clubs, the “I’m particularly grateful for So what’s next for the club as Evans wants to schedule a trip to and leadership of the discussions HaMakom group does not lay having read this book, which people begin tiptoeing out of Santa Fe for a face-to-face con- rotating among members. out its reading list a year in ad- brought home to me the person- ZoomLand and back into the real versation with the book lovers she That approach is one of the vance. That gives it the flexibility al cost of the Israeli-Palestinian world? has come to know via her com- club’s great strengths, members to pluck a title from the current conflict,” said Charlotte Evans, “I have no predictions at the puter screen in Connecticut. say. best-seller list as it did for the calling it a “gripping story pre- moment,” Dr. Schoen Giddings Information about the book “It guides me to books I might March meeting with “To Be a sented in absorbable bites.” said, although she plans to ask the club and all HaMakom events is not know or read otherwise, and Man,” the new short-story col- Ms. Evans comes to the meet- members if they would consider available on its website: hama- also gives me the motivation to lection by Nicole Krauss, or to ings from Connecticut, after an outdoor meeting in the sum- komtheplace.org or via email and read them with a discussion in re-read an older book like “The joining the group at the recom- mer. [email protected]. the offing,” said Pat Carlton, a Human Stain” by Phillip Roth mendation of a friend. She wasn’t HaMakom board member who whose contents resonate with the looking for a Jewish book club Calling All Jewish Storytellers in New Mexico

Are you looking for a The very first New Mexico Jewish Storyteller’s Festival will be held Religious School where from October 22 – 24, 2021. Whether you are a seasoned performer or new to storytelling, we are looking for you! your child will experience The festival will take place during a storyteller’s Shabbaton, and will Judaism through run from Kabbalat Shabbat on Friday evening to Sunday early after- noon. We are particularly looking for people who have stories about experiential, creative, being Jewish in New Mexico, whether contemporary, family histories, or adapted folktales; we are looking for stories from members of our and integrated learning? community whose voices are not always heard. If you are interested in performing or offering a workshop or some NAHALAT SHALOM, Albuquerque’s Jewish Renewal Congregation, offers an combination of the two, we are now accepting submissions. We are es- education program including Torah, Hebrew, Jewish Life Cycles, Music, Art, pecially, but not exclusively, interested in stories and workshops which deal with the themes of Vayera, the weekly Torah portion. These themes Values and Prayer, and customized bar and bat mitzvah, all facilitated by include D’var Torah and midrash on Vayera, angels and prophesy, wel- experienced and committed teachers. coming the stranger, family dynamics, covenant, meeting the divine, and Shabbat stories. GAN for pre-school to 1st grade However, if you have something else to offer, please let us know. If you want to submit a proposal for a workshop or performance, please CHEDER for grades 2-8 include the following: Name, physical address, phone number(s), email, text and preferred way to reach you. A short proposal telling us what We welcome your family - wherever you are on the path of Judaism. Come build you’d like to do and what experience you’ve had in storytelling and/or community with us as your children learn about our precious Jewish heritage. facilitating workshops. If you are interested in performing, please send a short video with an example of your storytelling or direct us to a sample on social media, YouTube or website. To register for next year or ask questions about the program Proposals should reach us no later than May 31, 2021. Please send contact Batya Podos, Education Director your proposals and questions to: Batya Podos, festival director, at bat- [email protected] [email protected]. This program is sponsored by Congregation Nahalat Shalom and sup- ported by a grant from the Jewish Federation of New Mexico. Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 17 An Interview with Suburban Souls Author Maria Espinosa By Diane Joy Schmidt and aunt who were quite invasive and abusive DS: And then, carried from generation to on an emotional level. She had no firm sense generation. Then there’s Hannah, Gerda’s “I’m proud to say, I’ve just turned 82,” of who she was, no firm sense of identity, or daughter. says author Maria Espinosa. “I’d love to take self-esteem, really, only the sense that she was ESPINOSA: Hannah runs away to get a painting class or a sculpture class. But, no, looking for something from Saul, her husband, away from her mother, away from the chaos no, I just feel, ‘Maria, you haven’t finished that he could not give her. He was all enclosed at home. Gerda, meanwhile, is going crazy your work yet. You have X number of novels, in his own suffering, how he struggled so hard with her daughter’s absence. She begs her to stories you’ve got to complete, and you’ve to make a go of it. So, ‘why couldn’t she do come back. got to do your damnedest to get them out in the same?’ DS: Should Hannah feel guilty about what the world. And that’s what you were born DS: Does Saul find his way? is happening to Gerda? on earth to do. When I was much younger, ESPINOSA: I think he’s a very valiant soul. ESPINOSA: I don’t know. She probably I wanted to be a dancer and actress, a singer, He stands by Gerda at the very end. You know will feel guilty about it. Yes. But, she also felt anything but a writer.” Asked if it takes a kind he’s going to be there for his children. You that she had to leave Gerda, in order to sur- of courage to write, Espinosa replied, “Oh, know he’s going to stand in and do what he vive, herself. very much so. Even more so as you get older, can. Whether he finds another woman, who This interview was first published by Lilith th to go against the prevailing currents and to Maria Espinosa (Photo credit: knows. Magazine at Lilith.org on April 30 , 2021. write what you need to write, Diane Joy Schmidt) DS: So, it’s about fulfillment through rela- whether it’s popular or not.” tionship? Maria Espinosa (born Paula Cron- Happily for us, Espinosa ESPINOSA: He’s kind of ESPINOSA: A lot of it is. A lot of it is also bach) is a novelist, poet, and translator as has continued to write, and stuck. So many men that are the outer world. I mean, the Holocaust was a well as a teacher. Her publications include her fifth and most recent really burdened by their role huge movement where one culture was trying five novels: her fifth and most recent nov- novel, Suburban Souls, was being the provider of a fami- to annihilate a whole other culture. When you el, Suburban Souls, Longing, which re- just published by Tailwinds ly, and by their careers, from grow up feeling that a whole group wants to ceived the American Book Award, Dying Press. It tells the story of the ‘50s on. It was their role to kill you just because of who you are, because Unfinished, which received a Josephine Jewish German Holocaust be the provider of the family, to you’re Jewish, or whoever you are, it does Miles Award for Literary Excellence from survivors in 1970’s San provide the finances, to keep the something to your psyche. And I think in my PEN Oakland, Incognito: Journey of a Francisco. family going, their ego and their own life, even though I’ve never been a Holo- Secret Jew, and Dark Plums. www.Mari- All her books have sense of self depended so much caust survivor, I am in a historical sense, be- aEspinosa.com Jewish themes, unex- on what their role was in the outer cause I feel it is embedded in my cells and my pectedly so, she says, as world, and it was so easy to ignore chromosomes, all the memories of past perse- Diane Joy Schmidt is an award-win- her parents were delib- the woman home with the kids. ‘She cution, the pogroms, all the times I have to flee ning screenwriter, journalist, essayist and erately unobservant. has it easy.’ for my life, in other lives and other bodies, in photojournalist. Her literary photo-essays Espinosa’s previous DS: There’s a lot of sensuality, sex, my ancestors’ lives. So there it stays with you. recently appeared in Another Chicago novels include Longing, which won the fleshiness of them. And then, Ger- DS: That leaves a person with a void? Magazine (“A Red-tailed Hawk”), and last the prestigious American Book Award. Born d a comes to that extreme, wanting to kill ESPINOSA: I think more a sense of dan- year in Sweet and Geometry. A five-time Paula Cronbach, she met the Chilean writer her children. As I read, I felt myself inside ger. You don’t feel at one with the mainstream Rockower Award winner, she writes for Mario Antonio Espinosa Wellmann in Paris each character. culture, ever. At any moment to have to flee. the New Mexico Jewish Link and the Gal- and entered a turbulent marriage. She lived in ESPINOSA: Then the book works! Yes, Passports, always in order—my mother’s side lup Independent and her work has also ap- the Bay area most of her adult if you did, because some people might be of the family was that way. peared regularly in the , life, and moved to Albuquerque nine years repelled by Gerda. You have to have a stern DS: Are you saying that the effect of the Hadassah Magazine, The Intermountain ago when her daughter Carmen, a dancer and backbone to say, ‘Okay, I’m going to look into Holocaust was to make a person (even in Jewish News and The Navajo Times. In social worker, also moved here. this disturbed character.’ America) feel unwanted, that they had no 2020, she received an M.F.A. in Screen- Suburban Souls explores the psycholog- DS: With Gerda, it was easy to fall into her business being here? writing and New Media from Antioch ical terrors of modern domesticity. But each logic. It was perfectly valid up to a point, and ESPINOSA: Yes, in a subliminal sense, an University Santa Barbara and her new character is drawn with such empathy that the then it just got away from her. unconscious if not a conscious sense, very screenplay Mitzi Gets It has just received reader is able to see them in a forgiving light. ESPINOSA: A lot of her disturbance came much. Writer-Recommend from the Austin Film Saul and Gerda tear their marriage apart, leav- from her family. Her parents died when she DS: And that could erode one’s own— Festival. DianeJoySchmidt.com ing a mark on their teenage daughter, Hannah, was very young, she was raised by an uncle ESPINOSA: —confidence. who loves them both. As the reader is drawn into this tumultuous world, we find our own struggles illuminated, forgiven, and explained Congregation Albert School of Jewish Studies in the particular terrors brought about by the Creating a kehillah kedoshah (spiritual learning community) for students and their families isolation and sterility of a modern suburban lifestyle. Espinosa thinks of her books as psycholog- ical. In discussing Suburban Souls, Espinosa said that while she had thought she was writ- Join us! ing about people she had known in the Bay 20212022/5782 Area, she came to realize the story was really about her mother’s life in the suburbs: www.congregationalbert.org ESPINOSA: My mother felt quite trapped in her role as a suburban housewife. And the suburb is a character itself in the novel be- Family Open House August 22thClasses begin August 29 cause the suburb was a place that sprang up, th right after World War II, a place of housing Programs and classes for Pre-K-12 grade for children, families, fathers who came home from the war; a place where newcomers who Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings had no roots there came. People like my moth- er, like Gerda, were in this town where they Values•Hebrew•Bar/Bat Mitzvah•Torah•Celebrations had no history or family, had no grandparents, no cousins, no sisters or brothers. Nobody For more information contact: around to offset fear, isolation, and the tre- mendous burdens it puts on the family. There [email protected] or call 505-883-1818 was no one to relieve that pressure. Education Director Rachel White Sternheim, M.A.Ed DS: And Gerda’s husband, Saul? 18 The New Mexico Jewish Link Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 Recipes from the Garden for Health and the Three Weeks By Eli Follick we remember the destruction of I pick what’s ready, I’m thinking oil. Stir in the coriander, lemon and 1 gram of protein. The ac- the Temples in Jerusalem. During about preparation. Sometimes, peel, and lemon juice. Add vege- tive compounds in garlic can help More than a year has passed this time, in many years past, I have to add some store-bought tables to pan and stir to coat. lower blood pressure and improve now, and it seems like a century. many other tragedies struck the items. This makes about 8 servings as cholesterol levels - an added ben- While I am fully vaccinated, Jewish people. Most of the daily For sure, I’ve had some unusu- a side dish or about 4 servings as efit of a very low-calorie addition it seems that the experts still prayers we say include some spe- al meals. However, anyone who the main meal. Each single serv- to any savory recipe. caution against stopping all the cial sections devoted to remem- has ever tasted just-ripe string ing has 46 calories, 4 grams of If I feel I need some more pro- precautions they told us about. bering how bad it all was. On the beans or peas or tomatoes off the good carbohydrates, 2 grams of tein, I’ll include a four-ounce But it’s almost summer and 9th of Av, the saddest day of the vine, will agree that this kind of fiber, and 1 gram of protein. Each piece of fresh salmon poached in the weather is glorious. I am so Jewish calendar, we read Megil- meal is special. of these ingredients contributes a wine/water mix. If it’s a lunch grateful to have made it until now las Eicha. It is five chapters of These recipes are what I’ve a host of additional nutrients in- meal, I might add a cup of low- and I am able, once again, to en- solid mourning for a way of life made and they work for me. cluding antioxidants and miner- fat cottage cheese. Both of these joy the birds singing, the trees in that was no more. For the last You will see that you can easily als. uncomplicated recipes are easy to bloom, and the flowers showing 2,000 years, we have been await- substitute other vegetables or add assemble and don’t take a lot of off their colorful petals. Passover ing the coming of Moshiach so some more into the basic recipe. Broiled Zucchini Slices prep or cooking time. Perfect for and Shavuos are behind us, ev- the Temple can be rebuilt, and all I think it’s important to have fun 2 cloves of garlic, minced a long day of enjoying summer- erything is back in place, and the the services detailed in the Torah trying variations. 2 tbs olive oil time fun. various foods are there to savor. can be restarted. ½ tsp dried rosemary My health has improved on a I’m even thinking about a little From the end of the 9th of Av, Mixed Vegetables with Lemon ½ tsp black pepper mostly plant-based eating plan. bit of careful traveling. It’s been we all move forward. The mourn- ½ pound green beans cut into 2 ¼ tsp salt I have lost weight, improved my so long since I planned and pulled ing is over. We can enjoy the inch pieces (about 2 cups) 2 medium zucchinis cut length- blood pressure, and haven’t had a off a day or two of traveling about summer and its many gifts. By 2 cups of cauliflower florets wise into ¼ inch slices cold in more than two years. that I’ve had to make notes to the first of May, I have planted 1 medium red sweet pepper cut myself about what to bring along. a small garden in my backyard. into 1 inch pieces In a saucepan cook garlic and It’s almost like stepping out the Mostly vegetables and some 2 tbs olive oil olive oil over medium heat for 30 door for the first time. After this showy flowers and by July, some ½ tsp ground coriander seconds. Stir in rosemary, pepper, Challah Baking is really over, I’m planning to of the crops have come in. Since ½ tsp finely shredded lemon peel and salt. Drizzle mixture over erase the Zoom application from I have tried to include as many 4 tsp lemon juice zucchini and toss to coat. Arrange By Marsha Berkowitz my computer! plant-based food choices in my zucchini in a single layer in a Johansen When I check the calendar, I eating plan as possible, the way In a large saucepan, cook green 15x10x1-inch baking sheet. Broil am reminded that there is a three- I work it is whatever is ready to beans, covered, in a small amount about 5 inches from heat for 5-6 Sweet scents rising, week period during the summer pick is used that day. of lightly salted boiling water for minutes or until tender, turning synagogue kitchen. that requires careful observance. My favorite crops include var- about 8 minutes. Add cauliflower once halfway through broiling. Fresh baked challah, This year, it begins on June 27, ious leaf lettuces, tomatoes, peas, and sweet pepper, cook 5 min- This makes about 4 satisfying smells like heaven. the Fast of the 17th of Tammuz, string beans, cucumbers, radish- utes more or until vegetables are portions. Each serving has about and ends on July 18, the Fast of es, zucchinis, various peppers, crisp-tender. Drain vegetables. In 75 calories, 3 grams of healthy Team of bakers kibbitz. the 9th of Av. This period is when Japanese eggplant, and herbs. As the same saucepan add the olive carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, Mix, blend, fold in unique flavors of raisin cinnamon, green chile. From My Kosher Jerusalem Kitchen Fresh egg slathered into Challah on My Mind Crevices of soft dough. By Sybil Kaplan 2 cups lukewarm water 6. Turn dough out onto lightly 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Slide next challah 5 cups bread flour floured work surface. Cut in half Grease a baking sheet. Inside an open oven rack. Jessamyn Waldman is founder 2 ½ T. extra-virgin olive oil and let rest for 5 minutes. Roll each 2. Place yeast, water, sugar and of Hot Bread Kitchen and grew up 2 T. honey piece into a 32-inch rope. Form salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until Time each loaf. Throw mitts on quickly. in Canada. This is her recipe for 1 T. kosher salt each rope into a coil; tuck ends un- yeast and sugar dissolve. Add egg Bread ready, in top oven. a Sephardic Jewish challah. Hot cornmeal for dusting der the coils. and mix. Bread Kitchen is a nonprofit in 2 large egg yolks 7. Transfer coils to a baking 3. Add oil and flour and mix to Open the doors slowly. east Harlem that trains women for sheet. Cover each loaf with a bowl. a smooth dough. Let rise to double Lift out browned, crusty professional careers baking many 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Let stand one hour until loaves in bulk. Push down. Grease a large delight. types of breads – including Moroc- Oil 2 small cookie sheets and dust nearly double in bulk. bowl and add dough, turning so Place on the cooling rack. can msemen, Persian nan-e barbari, with cornmeal. 8. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and entire surface is oiled. Cover and and Jewish challah – which are sold 2. In a skillet, toast sesame, cara- 1 T. water. Brush egg wash over refrigerate. Now they kvetch about it all. in retail outlets and online. Many way and anise seeds until fragrant, loaves, let stand 30 minutes. Brush 4. Divide dough into 3 parts and Length of time challah bakes. products are based on traditional 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and with egg wash again and sprinkle place on baking sheet. Let rise to Where they’re cooled. and ethnic recipes contributed by let cool. with reserved 1 T. seeds. double in bulk. Braid as you like. How they’re placed inside the trainees themselves. 3. In a small bowl, combine yeast 9. Bake loaves side by side in Brush with egg yolk. Sprinkle bags. All participants are paid during with 2 T. water and let stand until preheated 400 degree oven 30 min- poppy seeds on top if using. Bake their enrollment in a 100-hour cu- thoroughly moistened, about five utes until golden and sound hollow in preheated 350 degree F. oven 1 Baking challah might just linary training course, which in- minutes. when tapped on bottom. Transfer to hour. replace cludes classes in “English, kitchen 4. In a bowl with electric mixer racks and let cool. Sybil Kaplan is a journalist, au- A missing nutrient lost inside math, bakery science, professional fitted with a dough hook, combine thor, compiler/contributor/editor of Each one of our souls. skills, and management.” All grad- flour with olive oil, honey and re- My Mom’s (z”l) Sabbath Challah 9 kosher cookbooks (working on uates are placed with culinary em- maining warm water. Mix at low 1 challah a 10th) and food writer for North Marsha Johansen lives in Al- ployment partners. speed until very soft dough forms. 1 package (or 2¼ t.) dry yeast American Jewish publications. She buquerque. Her collection of Add salt, yeast and all but 1 Ta- 1 cup lukewarm water lives in Jerusalem where she has poems called Around the Edg- Sephardic Challah blespoon of seeds. Mix at medium led weekly walks of the Jewish food es was published in 2018. Her ¼ cup sugar writing has appeared in The 2 round loaves speed until dough is supple and ¾ t. salt market, Machaneh Yehudah, in En- smooth, about 10 minutes. glish since 2009. She wrote the ko- New York Times Magazine, 3 T. sesame seeds 1 beaten egg DailyDrunk, PoetryLovers. 1 ½ T. caraway seeds 5. Using oiled hands, transfer ½ T. oil sher Jerusalem restaurant features com, SadGirls Club and 1 ½ T. anise seeds dough to a piled bowl, cover with 3 ½ cups flour for Janglo.net, the oldest, largest the Fixed & Free Poetry An- 1 envelope (or 2¼ t.) active dry plastic wrap and let stand until 1 beaten egg yolk website for English speakers from thology and elsewhere. yeast dough rises, about 1 hour. poppy seeds (optional) 2014 to 2020. Summer 2021/Kaitz 5781 The New Mexico Jewish Link 19 Rescuing Hot Meals for Israeli Seniors in Need: The Jewish Federation of NM Supports Leket Israel’s Pioneering Efforts jor Israeli cities – the equivalent of tinues Joseph. “The only one of its support those in real need.” 250 tons of food that would have kind in Israel known to be working “We are proud to consider the otherwise gone to waste!” to provide vulnerable elderly re- Jewish Federation of New Mexico “Sadly, for most, the repurposed siding in government hostels with an important partner in our work to food received by them is their only a source of daily nutrition. We promote food security among the hot meal and source of protein for have established significant part- elderly while also helping reduce the day. The provision of healthy nerships with Israeli businesses, waste by ensuring perfectly good food to the elderly, many of whom caterers, hotels, and over 60 IDF food doesn’t end up in landfills,” can no longer cook, also creates bases. No other country in the concludes Joseph. an air of happiness and a greater world maintains a nationwide part- feeling of dignity among recipi- nership with its armed services to Leket Israel operates the coun- ents who look forward to a daily rescue surplus food. In addition, try’s largest food rescue network. hot meal. Eating in a communal the project mobilizes dozens of on- To learn more about the organiza- area in the hostels encourages the going volunteers providing them tion’s important work, please visit residents to get out of their rooms with an important and meaningful their website at: www.leket.org/ and to meet other seniors in a so- social service activity helping to en or email: [email protected] cial setting – providing them with much needed companionship!” “Food rescued on the routes is delivered either directly to the participating hostels and senior centers or to distribution hubs for overnight cold storage. The meals are reheated in stainless trays the Seniors in Israel are in a very allow them to live in dignity. following day and then transported precarious situation. According to The Jewish Federation of New in thermal containers to the varied the National Health and Nutrition Mexico has targeted its support to sites by our drivers where they are Study (Mabat Zahav), one quarter assist seniors residing at the Abar- put out on hot trays and served for of the elderly living in Israel are banel Government hostel in Beer lunch,” explains Joseph. nutritionally insecure. Addition- Sheva which houses 50 residents Hubs have been established in al studies show that one in three each living in a small one room Dimona, Be’er Sheva and Ris- senior citizens is giving up heat, apartment. Nearly all residents are hon Letzion, Arad, and Nahariya. food or medicine due to personal from the Former Soviet Union and Working through its hub in Rishon economic hardship. Improper nu- have little family support. Those Letzion, Leket Israel has also set trition can lead to increased health that were fortunate to find employ- up several distribution points for problems requiring additional ment after making Aliyah worked home delivery to seniors, most medicines and care, further exac- in low paying jobs, retired into having mobility difficulties and erbating their economic and per- poverty and live off social security. who would otherwise not receive sonal struggle. “The project is vital to the phys- a daily hot meal. The rescue and To help address the problem, ical and emotional well-being of delivery process is monitored by Leket Israel’s “Hot Meals for Vul- these seniors,” says a passionate Leket Israel’s professional staff to nerable Seniors” initiative, proud- Joseph Gitler, Leket Israel’s found- ensure that food safety standards ly supported by the Jewish Feder- er and president. “This year the are maintained at each stage of the ation of New Mexico, is rescuing project will rescue and redistribute collection and distribution process. surplus prepared food on dedicated an estimated 425,000 hot meals to “The project is really unique, in- meal collection routes from hotels, vulnerable seniors across nine ma- novative, and collaborative,” con- corporate cafeterias and IDF bas- es for redistribution to elderly Is- raelis. To date, routes have been established in the Be’er Sheva/ Shifta, Eilat, Haifa/Akko-Nahari- ya, Jerusalem, Kiryat Gat, and Tel Aviv regions. 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SMALL WORLD continued on page 20 Indianapolis,” Harold said. to the University of New Mexico that fair. Vivian is past executive direc- the opening ceremony, a permanent Harold said his Indianapolis child- suggested he spend his days leading tor of the Jewish Federation of Fort community service award was estab- very proud of my accomplishments hood rabbi, Rabbi Greenfield, -in up to retirement in Albuquerque Wayne, and once in New Mexico, lished in Harold’s name. This annu- in our community.” stilled in his congregants a powerful as an adjunct professor. One of his became instrumental in building the al award was founded to recognize Both Harold, George and Vivian message, which jumpstarted his phil- fraternity brothers was a part of a Jewish Community Foundation of those whose service to the Jewish are no strangers to Jewish philan- anthropic journey. mainstay family in the New Mexico New Mexico. Both George and Viv- community reflects the highest integ- thropy, and for those who know Har- “As a Jew, we have a responsibil- Jewish community. He insisted that ian believed it was important to be a rity, love for one’s fellow man and old or live in Albuquerque, there’s ity to be involved and to give back,” he have dinner with his family and part of the Jewish community. commitment to the ideals of Jewish no wonder that a community service he said. other members of the community “It’s my heritage,” George said. “I life. Harold was also the first recip- award was named after him. Harold was only in Albuquerque to learn more about the area and its am a Holocaust refugee and I came ient of the award. Each year since, for a short period of time before he Jewish connections. During the din- here as a very small child. My par- very deserving individuals were giv- Harold’s Story started to push for more Jewish in- ner, he was told that the best person ents were resettled in Indianapolis en the award, and this year, the Skad- Harold and his wife, Carol, who volvement and Jewish activities. to talk to was Harold Albert. and it’s important to contribute to the rons were honored with the annual were high school sweethearts, both Since 1960, Harold has been the pres- “I told them ‘I once knew a Har- continuity of our people and the only award at a virtual dinner on Oct. 14. had jobs lined up in Indianapolis ident of almost every Jewish organi- old Albert many years ago from In- way we can do that besides through The event had more than 500 partici- after they graduated college and got zation. In the 1970s, he formed four dianapolis. Is it the same Harold Al- the synagogues is through communi- pants, and of course, Harold was the married in 1960. His parents then to five new non-profit Jewish- cor bert?’” George said. ty endeavors.” one to present them with the award. moved to Albuquerque. When he porations, including Jewish Family And it sure was. George obtained At the University of New Mexi- “George and Vivian’s outstand- went to visit, he said he thought it Services and the Jewish Federation. Harold’s number and after 44 years, co, George and Vivian founded and ing service has not only been in the was the Garden of Eden; the most He insisted on building a JCC. In the the two reunited once again. funded a semi-annual lecture series Jewish community but for the com- beautiful city he has ever seen. The 1980s, he raised money through per- That wasn’t the only reconnec- on contemporary Jewish studies. The munity at-large,” Harold said. “I was day he arrived in New Mexico, he sonal solicitations, grants and a loan tion George would encounter around series brings Jewish lecturers to the honored and thrilled that they were picked up a newspaper, searched for from a local bank. He got 200 fam- that same time. He reconnected with college to discuss Jewish issues and chosen as this year’s honorees.” job openings and found a new career. ilies to pledge to join the JCC once a woman named Vivian, whom he is attended by several hundred pro- Both George and Harold are now When Harold arrived in Albuquer- it was built and started informational knew many years prior from India- fessors, students, the Jewish commu- retired and remain close friends. que, the first thing he did was ask meetings and committees. napolis. Both had come out of long nity and the community at-large. They have a weekly chess game, about the local Jewish organizations. marriages. The magic happened which George taught Harold how to He quickly learned that the entire George’s Story quickly, and they were married. The Harold B. Albert Community play many years ago. Jewish community was run by one George graduated college and be- Once in New Mexico, the duo Service Award This article was originally woman in what he described was a gan working at universities and lab- joined Harold’s efforts of spear- In 2000, Albuquerque’s JCC was published in the Jewish Feder- Jewish Community Center (JCC) oratories as a physicist all across the heading the creation of Albuquer- finally opened to the public. It is ation of Greater Indianapolis without walls. United States. In 1998, when he was que’s JCC. George was influential 55,000 square feet and is current- Federation News Magazine, “I was looking for the same type working at the University of Illinois, in developing cultural programs for ly at membership capacity. Harold March/April 2021 issue, and is of environment that I grew up with in looking to retire, he was connected the JCC, including the Jewish book was named the first president and at reprinted with permission.