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FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | ADAR 7, 5781 | VOLUME 73, NUMBER 11 $1.50 Schools and Phoenix-area residents start new synagogues adapt businesses during pandemic NICOLE RAZ | STAFF WRITER Purim celebrations rin Finger was ready for the biggest youth sports league Aseason yet: 2,500 kids had jerseys and were assigned to different sports teams. They were on rosters and scheduled SHANNONto Zoom LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR to compete. It was April of last year, just when the COVID- 19 pandemic began to wreak havoc and “everything came enee Joffe had to do a double take when she walked crumbling down.” Then, people wanted their money back. Rinto one of Congregation Kehillah’s classrooms recently. “This is my sole source of income for my family,” he said. “I’m Preserved on the white board was a lesson about Tu B’Shevat sitting in my office saying, ‘This is not going to work. I have to — the students’ last pre-pandemic lesson. do something, and I have to do something fast.’” “That blew my mind when I looked at the whiteboard, Today, Finger still runs the i9 Sports Arizona franchise he and I’m like, ‘Oh my God! That’s the last thing they taught started seven years ago, but he also sells wood-fired pizza from in person,’” said Joffe. a pizza trailer. Business is going so well that he is looking to Purim planning this year coincides with the first anniversary turn it into a franchise. of COVID-19, and Joffe said seeing the remnants of that It’s no secret the pandemic devastated businesses across lesson left her with a “weird feeling” realizing that a year has Greater Phoenix. Arizona had the fourth-highest rate of business already passed. closures in the country relative to the number of total businesses Typically celebrated with costumes and parades, this year in the state between March and July of last year, according to Purim’s preparations may seem a bit subdued. But across a Yelp survey. Greater Phoenix, people are planning to keep things festive But Finger, like several people in the Jewish community, where they can. Purim is a difficult holiday to do over Zoom, according to was able to change course by starting a new business since the Rabbi Alicia Magal of the Jewish Community of Sedona and pandemic started. the Verde Valley. Other holidays can be adapted, but for Purim, Finger got the idea of operating a pizza truck after seeing one “you need that raucous energy in a room looking at each in a park in the Sky Crossing neighborhood. He asked a few other,” she said. Adapting that feeling to the small rectangle questions of the pizza truck operator and learned business was booming. Finger knew his lead soccer instructor at i9, Codey Marina Awerbuch sings Shabbat songs with her daughter, of a computer screen takes some doing. Sophie, to children ages 3 months to 5 years old at Cactus Park “This year it’s about finding the essence of the Purim Stetler, had a background in in Scottsdale, as part of a weekly Friday morning tot Shabbat. celebration and saying what’s really needed here,” Magal said. the culinary world and asked if SEE BUSINESSES, PAGE 3 PHOTO BY REBECCA FEINMAN “Purim’s a little mad; it’s upside down and backwards,” (and in that vein she’ll write her name backwards on her Zoom screen). She’ll encourage her congregants to wear funny hats Celebrating Jewish holidays and unmute themselves at critical moments. There might not be groggers, but people can put beans in a tin can, bang a pot at home has silver linings with a spoon or honk a horn. Magal has a wooden frog with Na’amah Segal Karas lights Shabbat candles on Friday, a bumpy back that she will turn into a percussion instrument Feb. 5, 2021. Since the pandemic started, she has become by gliding a stick over it. more observant. To read more, go to p. 19.

She’ll choose sections of the megillah PHOTO BY BRADLEY KARAS to chant, sections when people should SEE PURIM, PAGE 2

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NATIONAL INTERNATIONAL ISRAEL Dr. Fauci among seven laureates of 2021 UAE swears in its first Israel, Cyprus announce Dan David Prize honoring public health ambassador to Israel ‘green passport’ travel agreement PURIM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 make noise, sections when people should sing. The celebration will be scaled back, but she wants attendees to be fulfilled. Meri Thomason, a congregant, chose Purim backgrounds for the congregation to use, making the Zoom megillah reading more festive. She plans to ask for donations of hamantaschen people make in their Purim baking class to include in a basket she’ll drop off for families. She might not be able to organize a synagogue-wide mishloach manot, but she wants “to do the mitzvah.” Meri Thomason shows off her Purim costume in 2020. PHOTO COURTESY OF MERI THOMASON This year, people will have to look for what’s underneath the carnival of Purim — with its students, a hamantaschen workshop with a chef hidden and revealed elements, said Magal. and the big casino night replete with Purim 2021 Phoenix “Sometimes you have to look and find where shpiels, trivia, poker tables and other games. God is in this place, this encounter when we’re Joshua Rips, one of Hillel at ASU’s Jewish Children play together at the Martin Pear JCC’s Jewish News no longer at the foot of Sinai with its thunder Life interns, is in the midst of planning for the Purim parade a year ago. PHOTO COURTESY OF MARTIN PEAR JCC — but there are whispers of divinity that can virtual casino night, which he hopes will bring Rabbi Tzvi Rimler, organizer of C’Teen, will Print Dates be found at any moment. That is one of the people out who just want to relax. help with the all-school Zoom holiday. Kids will good things about Purim.” He’s realistic about keeping things on Zoom dress up and show off their costumes, maybe Last year’s Purim decorations were still up for now. “I don’t foresee a future where we can learn a new song or two and play games, like January 8 August 6* in the Hillel offices at Arizona State University, go back to our ‘normal’ until the fall,” he said. Rimler’s creation “Jewpardy.” January 22 August 20 when Rabbi Suzy Stone, campus rabbi for “A stay-at-home Passover is going to be what “We’ll try to make it as fun as possible for Hillel at ASU, was finally allowed back in over the doctor ordered.” everyone,” Zappa said. February 5 August 27 “Having a celebration at all,” is what Cory the summer. “It looked like Pompei — a relic At Congregation Beth Tefillah, Rabbi Blumstein, Hillel at ASU’s vice president of February 19 September 3 from before,” she said. Pinchas Allouche is planning multiple services Jewish Life, is looking forward to. He is ready “Purim was the last in-person event last year, throughout the day and evening in order to March 5 September 10 and it’s a huge event for us.” to see all their hard work pay off, and expects accommodate in-person but socially distanced Hillel’s Purim casino night is one of the it to go well simply because they’ve become March 12 September 24 megillah readings. largest flagship events of the year, a time when much better at planning virtual events over Instead of passing out mishloach manot March 19 October 1 Jewish students — religious and secular — the last year. at the synagogue, he and others will take join together for an “amazing experience,” At Desert Jewish Academy, on the campus of March 26 October 15** Stone said. Temple Beth Sholom of the East Vally, Emily hamantaschen, food, costumes and games April 2 November 5 This year’s events will be virtual, but Stone Zappa remembered that Purim was the last to congregants to “bring Purim joy to feels good about the plans for a Purim festival in-person event before the campus became “a their homes.” April 16 November 19 week culminating in a virtual casino night. ghost town.” “Judaism doesn’t have to belong to the May 7 December 3 Even with students’ Zoom fatigue, she believes “It is pretty weird that it’s been a year,” she synagogue,” Allouche said. “It can and it that the social nature of the event will re-create said, “but we’re pretty excited — anything to should be brought home too.” May 21 December 17 a lot of the same feelings students have about add some spice and something different to our Before COVID, people felt that holidays had June 4 Purim in a normal year. kids’ days is fun.” to be celebrated at the synagogue, he said. But “We’re doing a lot more than we have in the Normally, the students would collect items the way COVID has turned the focus inward July 9 *Best of Magazine past,” Stone said. “We have to be more creative for mishloach manot baskets, but this year the forces us to see things differently. **Annual Directory in finding what makes Purim a celebration.” staff is doing it, and they’ll put them in front “There’s something special and intimate The week includes an examination of the of the school for people to pick up without in bringing God home that we did not WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM holiday, a gift basket delivery for about 200 having to enter the building. appreciate before.” JN

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2 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM BUSINESSES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 42nd Anniversary

Codey Stetler, left, and Dough Rider Fire Crew Member Special! Kaiea Burnz prepare 45, 12” wood-fired pizzas for a drive Please stop by and say hi to Bruce. While you’re by birthday party in Glendale here, meet Vince and Tara who will be carrying on Saturday, Feb. 13. on Bruce’s legacy of excellent customer care. PHOTO BY ARIN FINGER Save 20% on complete pair of glasses with this coupon he’d be interested in starting a pizza business the information customers want to know, offer good thru March 31 2021 with him. such as which kits are appropriate for which Soon after, Dough Riders was born. age groups and the ins and outs of online See Our Newest Arrivals From: Finger offers a menu of 10 pizzas. from shopping, Feinberg said. And now they’re Christian Dior • Jimmy Choo • Silhouette • Maui Jim Sunglasses “Ricotta and lox” — which includes lemon- learning marketing. cream ricotta, capers, smoked salmon, dill Already, they’ve learned to use social media We are... We can... and arugula, to “Elote” featuring garlic such as Facebook and Instagram. Their next – Not in every shopping center – Often remember your name, and always oil, roasted corn, roasted poblano, bacon, platform will be TikTok. – Not on every corner greet you with a smile cilantro, Mexican cheese and lime crema. “My goal is to be the largest we can be,” – Never part of a large chain of stores – Treat you like family Finger has been selling pizzas at the occasional said Feinberg. “For me, it’s a second career.” – Not the “biggest, cheapest, or fastest” – Take extra time private event, including bar mitzvahs and Last March, Marina Awerbuch resigned – Not like any other optical – Special order just for you birthday parties, in addition to neighborhoods, from her full-time position as the program – Offer the highest quality, best service, breweries and farmers markets. manager at the Childhelp Children’s Advocacy honest, reasonable values & most beautiful selection of eyewear He thought the pizza trailer would be a Center to spend time with her 3-year-old son side business to help him and his family get and 6-month-old daughter. It was the same 32nd St. & Camelback • Biltmore Plaza by during the pandemic, but it’s going better week COVID began to shut down the state. than he thought. Finger is excited for the She transitioned to a part-time role instead, TAGER 602-957-1716 return of festivals and events post-COVID. wanting to have the opportunity to have fun Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. He’s already looking for three other franchise with her kids and “live the mom life” that she OPTICAL Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (extended hours upon request) owners in Greater Phoenix, and his sights are couldn’t while working full time, she said. set on expanding to the West Coast. “Then COVID hit and everything totally For Reut Oren and Orit Feinberg, former shut down,” she said. Like many other teachers at Pardes Jewish Day School, their moms, she started doing arts and crafts and pandemic-born businesses are a first foray into activities in parks. But she also came with the business world. a background in child development, had “We are so artistic, and business and art, lots of supplies and was able to incorporate it’s... I don’t know, for me at least, they don’t Jewish education. really go together,” said Oren, a former drama On Fridays, she would hold a Shabbat therapist at Pardes. A Jewish Cemetery that cares experience for children of two friends she was Oren and Feinberg are in the process of already quarantining with. They would sing about the Jewish Community setting up their company, Oops I Crafted. The songs and play with a parachute. pair, originally from Israel, have been making She decided to expand the group of children and selling DIY art kits since Chanukah. and, in August, she let other Jewish moms Feinberg left teaching after 20 years due to concerns related to the pandemic, and Oren know what she was doing. She felt seven to 10 @ Arizona’s Only Jewish left in 2018 before her son was born. kids would work. It started online but has since Funeral Home “I was thinking about a business, and Reut turned into a weekly tot Shabbat in the park. was thinking about a business, and we bounced For Rosh Hashanah she held her first paid @ Arizona’s Only Member of out ideas, and this was really something that event and promoted it on Instagram and the Jewish Funeral Directors incorporates everything for us — everything Facebook. Next thing she knew, she was of America that we like to do, and we could do it from approached by Modern Milk, Musicology and home and we know enough about it,” PJ Library, all looking to create partnerships. @ Arizona’s Only Jewish Owned Feinberg said. “I was just really doing it because I wanted & Operated Funeral Home With everybody being home and needing something for my daughter,” she said, but after • Jewish Owned and Operated @ Arizona’s Only Funeral Home something to do, Oren added, it seemed a she started partnering with organizations she • Sidewalks at Every Grave good opportunity for DIY art kits. They work realized it could be more. “I saw that this is Endorsed by the Entire for couples, families and many kids can do them something that could make a profit as well as Rabbinical Council • Caring Professional Sta alone while parents work. give me something to work on, and be with • Intermarried Families Welcome They’ve been selling string art, embroidery, my kids.” bird feeder, and cookie decoration kits, as well She hopes to partner with more agencies as kits that cater to interfaith families. They are looking for children’s programming, and also preparing art kits for Purim, which include post-COVID she hopes to partner with coffee (480) 585-6060 a kit to create mishloach manot. Kits range from shops to create mommy-and-me crafts and $24 to $40 and can be delivered, shipped or coffee events. 24210 N. 68th Street, Phoenix picked up. “It kind of started from just Shabbat in the (o Pinnacle Peak Rd) Diving into business has meant learning park, to me realizing it’s something I really love a lot of new things quickly. They’ve learned and enjoy doing — working with families and mtsinaicemetery.com to define their audience, to communicate the kids,” she said. JN

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LOCAL Jewish community in Greater Phoenix pays tribute to Black History Month NICOLE RAZ | STAFF WRITER

ebruary marks Black History Month, in regard to racism, and young Jews discussion this week called “Ending the Fand it’s important that Jews pay especially are asking, ‘How can I help?’ School to Prison Pipeline,” which was the attention, said Paul Rockower, executive We have a template and a history of a product of conversations and partnerships director of the Jewish Community powerful partnership.” that formed in the wake of the killing Relations Council of Greater Phoenix. It’s Arizona Jews for Justice launched a of George Floyd in police custody in important to “honor the struggle of the “Black and Jewish” dialogue series this May 2020. African American community,” he said, week to discuss how the communities NCJWAZ and its event partners, Black and to look back at our own history and can work to achieve justice and equity Mothers Forum founder Janelle Wood connection to the community. for each other. and Joanie Rose, outreach director for A photograph of Rabbi Abraham “These communities are deeply Stand Indivisible, chose education as Joshua Heschel and Martin Luther King, alienated from each other,” said Rabbi an avenue to begin their work together Jr. marching from Selma to Montgomery, Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, founder of AJJ. “because if you do not save the children, Alabama, in 1965 is often the symbol for the relationship between the Jewish and non-Jewish Black communities, but the relationship has changed over time. As part of his work with the JCRC, Rockower works to renew and strengthen ties. The Black community “stood by our side” after the 2018 Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, and Rockower said it’s important that the Jewish community is supporting the non-Jewish Black community in times of crisis as well. “How we get through these difficult times is through community connections and community support,” he said. There are several events that represent those connections this month, including a free screening Saturday by the Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival. Acknowledging Black History Month is “even more important” Marchers on Sylvan Street in downtown Selma, Alabama, at the start of the Selma to Montgomery March on March, 21, 1965. The following leaders are on the front row, wearing leis: John Lewis, Ralph Abernathy, Martin this year, said Barry Singer, the Luther King Jr., Ralph Bunche, Rabbi Abraham Heschel, and F. D. Reese. Sylvan Street was later renamed Martin festival’s co-executive director, Luther King Street. ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY. DONATED BY ALABAMA MEDIA GROUP. PHOTO BY WILLIAM MCCORMICK, HUNTSVILLE TIMES. noting the past year of protests Change the against racial injustice and police brutality. The purpose of the series, is to help build then you’re talking about a very bleak The free festival showing of “Shared bridges and “get to know each other.” future,” said Civia Tamarkin, NCJWAZ life of a child Legacies: The African American-Jewish Ilana Bruce, who is Black and Jewish, president. Civil Rights Alliance” is a nod to the attended this week’s discussion and sees Tamarkin, Wood and Rose are now in foster care. Black Lives Matter movement and it as a good first step in understanding thinking about creating task forces to the shared history between the Jewish each other’s needs. focus on specific areas of advocacy. For more information visit and non-Jewish Black communities, She said the anti-Semitism she’s “The discussion was not intended CreditsForKids.org or Singer said. The documentary explores experienced in the Black community, to merely acknowledge Black history,” call 602-930-4665 historical lessons of African American and and the racism she’s experienced in the Tamarkin said, adding that Floyd’s death Jewish cooperation while fighting bias Jewish community are proof that there is and the issues around it are a “community and racism. a lot of work to be done. problem and tragedy that needed to be Shari Rogers, the film’s director, told “We have so much common ground addressed, and early in the year so that we Detroit’s Jewish News in November that needs to be brought to light,” she could begin to make changes.” that it is a critical time for members said, adding that common ground is Ultimately, she hopes the NCJWAZ of the Jewish and non-Jewish Black not about “the oppression Olympics.” partnerships will bring diverse communities to remember their alliance. Rather, she said each group must communities together to work for aask-az.org “We need to work together on today’s acknowledge the other’s struggles and common goals, including fighting civil rights issues,” Rogers told the decide how, as allies, they can help each white supremacy. 2320 N 20th St, publication, noting the groups worked other prosper. “We are all facing the same stain on Phoenix, AZ 85006 together to pass the Voting Rights Act The National Council of Jewish Women society today and against humanity,” of 1965. “The world is watching now of Arizona hosted a Black History Month she said. JN

4 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

LOCAL EVJCC offers virtual tours of Auschwitz NICOLE RAZ | STAFF WRITER from history and what your eyes and your senses on a tour March 2, and Steve experience.” Tepper, ACBVI’s executive direc- hree years ago, Rabbi Michael Beyo, the Wojcik conducts the tours in real time and tor, was among several people Beyo TEast Valley Jewish Community Center’s uses preexisting digital resources, including the invited on a VIP tour Feb. 7 to CEO, traveled to Auschwitz in person. Last fall, Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum’s virtual gauge interest. he traveled there again — virtually. reality panorama, archival historical footage and Tepper, though not visually View of Auschwitz on Aug. 14, 2018, the 77th anniversary of the The virtual tour was created by Jerzy Wojcik, recordings from drone flights, to accompany impaired, said he knew the tour Maximilian Kolbe's death. who lives in Poland and has been a certified his commentary. The tours also include an would work well for his group PHOTO BY BIURO PRASOWE LICENSED UNDER CC PDM 1.0 Auschwitz guide and educator for more than hour-long pre-tour seminar and a Q&A session. and clients because of its engaging audio stories of the Holocaust is around the bystander 14 years. The pandemic has halted travel and Wojcik reached out to Beyo late last year to elements and Wojcik’s willingness to provide and the upstander. And there are multiple paral- significantly impacted the number of people see if the EVJCC would be interested in part- even more description in his commentary to lels to how that exists inside our population,” visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and nering to promote the virtual tour in the United make accommodations. he said. “Our population on a daily basis is Museum, and Wojcik wanted to ensure people States and Canada. “I like the East Valley Jewish “Having been to two concentration camps, fighting for their ability, fighting for the right could still experience it. Community Center,” Wojcik explained. “What nothing replaces that feeling that you get when to fit into society.” “Auschwitz education has to be continued,” can I tell you?” you’re standing there,” Tepper said. “But I Now that Holocaust education will Wojcik wrote in a Facebook post last July, The EVJCC has a long history and high thought that the tour guide did an unbeliev- be added to the Arizona Department of when he also announced the formation of the caliber of Holocaust education as well as estab- able job of describing where we were, the Education’s administrative code, Beyo virtual tours. lished connections in the U.S. and Canada, said significance of where we were, and helping believes the virtual tour will become a Since launching the project, Wojcik estimates Beyo. “It’s easier for us to promote these tours contextualize it for the group.” “major program” to engage and educate he’s given 50 to 70 tours to people from all than an individual person sitting in his office in The first day he sent invitations to board the community. around the world. “I think virtual tours give a Poland,” Beyo said. and staff members only, and he received more “This is such a great opportunity to teach chance to tell the story of Auschwitz to a much In his first week of scheduling tours, Beyo than 20 RSVPs. Holocaust education in general and specifically greater and broader audience,” he said, noting said he has booked more than 20. The tour “It hasn’t even gone out to clients yet,” about Auschwitz, both during COVID, but that one of the tours was for a group of 250 is available to groups with a minimum of 25 he said. He is finding a lot of interest from also post-COVID,” Beyo said. “There are so students from India. people, the cost is $30 per person and discounts people interested in learning more about the many hundreds of thousands — or millions of Beyo described the virtual tour as having are available for multiple tours and schools. Holocaust with a desire to support agen- people maybe — that would want to have that an even greater impact on him than visiting in The EVJCC is also developing partnerships cies who are eager to accommodate the experience, but going to Auschwitz in Poland person. “Auschwitz-Birkenau is very sterile,” with businesses that would like to participate visually impaired. is not on their bucket list.” JN Tepper is one of a few Jewish ACBVI board Beyo said. “It’s difficult to imagine that in that or sponsor tours. The East Valley JCC will host two virtual Auschwitz same room thousands of people were tortured. A group formed by the Arizona Center for and staff members, and said there are lessons tours in commemoration of Yom Hashoah. For So it creates dissonance between what we know the Blind and Visually Impaired will be going from the Holocaust for everyone. “One of the more information, go to evjcc.org/Auschwitz-tour.

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JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 5 HEADLINES Our assisted LOCAL living is accredited for Parents experiment two reasons. with different options You. And for Jewish learning your family. NICOLE RAZ | STAFF WRITER

Because having the his was upposed to be the year confidence & peace of mind Tthat Andrea Unger’s 6-year- of accreditation is important. old son, Casey, began his Jewish That’s why La Siena is accredited education. “We always said we would by CARF International–an join the temple when our old- independent organization that est was starting kindergarten so sets exceedingly high standards that he could do Sunday school for care & service. We think you’ll and Hebrew school, just like we did when we were growing up,” find that our accreditation is only she said. one of the many reasons to take But the COVID-19 pandemic a good look at La Siena. changed those plans. Casey started kindergarten in August, but not ADERS’ C RE HO 20 IC 0 E 2 Sunday school. The Ungers are doing the best they can — con- 2 Call us today to learn more. N E D P L A C tinuing to read PJ Library books CARF-ACCREDITED INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING as a family, celebrating the major holidays, having a nice Shabbat 909 East Northern Avenue • Phoenix, AZ dinner when it's possible — but The Gottlieb children, Tyler, 2, Gavin, 5, Scott, 8, Brynn, 10, LaSienaSeniorLiving.com • 602.635.2602 virtual Sunday school didn’t seem and Ellie, 13, wear matching shirts that came with their PJ like the right fit, so formal Jewish Library Chanukah activity bags in December 2020. PHOTO BY JOLENE KUTY education is “on hold for now.” When it comes to Jewish learning dur- outdoor services on Saturday mornings ing a pandemic, parents across Greater in person and attending the New Shul’s Phoenix have had to decide what works. virtual Family Beit Midrash on Sunday For some, like the Ungers, formal Jewish mornings as well as classes through learning is on pause. For others, program- Lookstein Virtual Jewish Academy. ming from various sources has helped to “We’re taking a course on the 10 fill that gap. commandments, and we get together on Many families have been seeking out Zoom and talk about it, and then we do Jewish learning opportunities during the some independent work,” Kuty said. “It’s pandemic from PJ Library, which sends really easy and accessible.” She feels like free books to families once a month to her kids are getting the Jewish education help them build a personal Jewish library they normally would, but it’s been a lot of and organizes family activities and events. work to re-create. “Normally, the systems “That piece is missing for a lot of people are in place to create all of that,” she said. right now and they want to keep that Virtual options for Jewish learn- going,” said Marcy Lewis, PJ Library- ing are also still on the table for many Phoenix’s program director. “And a lot families. Rabbi Zari Sussman, director of families don’t know how to do it.” of lifelong learning and engagement at When Lewis organized a storywalk Congregation Or Tzion, said most of the for Sukkot, turning the storyline of families who were enrolled pre-pandemic a PJ Library book into an interactive are still enrolled. They’ve even gained a experience, she ended up providing six few families. additional hours of the activity to meet “Our attendance has been better than demand, based on how quickly slots were normal Sunday school — I’m assuming filling up. because it’s just easier to log on and log “I am hearing from parents that they off,” Sussman said. “We’ve had 60 to 70 want some tools to help them through children log on, which is more attendance this crazy time, and they still want to than we would get in person.” Or Tzion continue religiously,” Lewis said, add- offers Sunday school for kids in kinder- ing that families are also looking for safe garten through sixth grade and Hebrew things to do together. school on Wednesdays for kids in third Jolene Kuty said Jewish education is through seventh grade. just one of “all sorts of challenges” the “I’ve been amazed by the parents’ pandemic has created for her five kids, commitment to Jewish education dur- ages 2, 5, 8, 10 and 13. They’ve been ing the pandemic,” Sussman said. “This reading PJ Library books and partici- certainly was the year to let it go, and pating in PJ Library activities, going to they didn’t.” JN

6 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

LOCAL New Limmud AZ set for its first virtual event Trained with SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR 12 million

eghan Jalowiec is still figuring real-life Mout the ins and outs of Emamo, Limmud AZ’s scheduling software, and sounds its annual day of learning on Feb. 21 is fast approaching. This year, the event will for better be virtual and, despite a year of experience with Zoom calls and online events, a few understanding hiccups remain. “We give patience to our participants People gather for Limmud AZ’s day of learning in with less e ort. person one year ago. PHOTO COURTESY OF MEGHAN JALOWIEC and ask for patience from them,” said Jalowiec, one of Limmud’s three Hava Samuelson, director of the co-chairs. “Our community is very Center for Jewish Studies at Arizona understanding and we appreciate that.” State University, will talk about the More clarity. So far, the event is on track to have connection between Judaism and ecology similar participation rates as previous — something she’s been studying and More hearing. More life. years. She’s happy with the numbers, but writing about for two decades. it’s not the most important thing. Judaism brings a distinctive approach to Introducing the new Oticon More™ “It’s great to have a large attendance, the issue, she said, and she will highlight but if everyone has fun and learns Judaism’s “deep ecological wisdom” and ● New research tells us the brain can handle access to the something, that’s how we measure how it can be applied to the climate crisis. 1 success,” she said. She will also discuss how Judaism conveys full sound scene to naturally make sense of sound Limmud AZ started in 2015 in the knowledge that all things “are deeply ● The Deep Neural Network in Oticon More gives your response to the Greater Phoenix Jewish intertwined and interconnected.” brain more of the information it needs to decipher the community’s desire for more learning Vicki Cabot is speaking about issues intricate details of relevant sounds opportunities and is part of a global surrounding the First Amendment and network of learning conferences aligned freedom of religion. She will focus on the ● Oticon More delivers 30% more sound to the brain with Limmud of North America. role religion, specifically Judaism, plays in and increases speech understanding by 15%2 This year, speakers were invited instead the public square. of applying. The speakers — authors, To that end, she will introduce specific The benefit is improved speech understanding educators, clergy and lay leaders — Supreme Court cases and go through with less listening eort and the volunteer their time. the historic significance of each. She will ability to remember more. Rabbi Debbie Stiel of Temple Solel examine details about how the courts represents relatively new clergy, while are dealing with religious freedom in Get more out of life. Get more out of your hearing aid. Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz and the face of COVID-19 and how some in Rabbi Pinchas Allouche are familiar the Jewish community view the public Call to schedule your veterans. Both are Orthodox, and health issue as abrogating their freedom complimentary hearing SCHEDULE Jalowiec said they’re always invited, to gather for religious purposes such as given their eloquence in educating and with weddings and funerals. assessment.* Upon YOUR engaging people from all walks of life She thinks people might have a lot to completion, receive a about Judaism. say given new interest in the Supreme RISK-FREE Amy Fish will talk about her personal Court in the wake of new judicial $20 Gift Card.* TRIAL† TODAY! development book, which isn’t typical appointments. “It’s terrific that more Limmud fare. “But I really pushed for it people are keyed in to what the court because it’s part of a thread of standing does,” she said. “I’d just like to add up for yourself and for the downtrodden, something to the conversation.” which is a Jewish principle — so why While she looks forward to the event, not?” said Jalowiec. she will miss certain aspects of being in This year, there will be 25 diverse person. “The hardest thing for everybody lectures. The topics range from Yiddish is missing the conversation piece,” she 888.280.7443 children’s literature to a look at what the said. “I want people to engage and Talmud has to say about advocating for express themselves, and I encourage CASA GRANDE ● CHANDLER ● GLENDALE ● MARICOPA immigrants. people to participate.” MESA ● PHOENIX ● SCOTTSDALE (4 LOCATIONS) Yanklowitz, president and dean of On a positive note, said Jalowiec, a Valley Beit Midrash, plans to talk about virtual event allows people to attend from hearinglife.com the public side of Judaism. While faith is anywhere in the world. She isn’t certain WHEN CALLING, MENTION CODE AG60-1 TO RECEIVE YOUR OFFER personal, he said, “Judaism has universal how people will react, but she’s curious Ask about our special financing o er. moral teachings that when lived robustly to see the comments come in. Right now, can truly transform the world.” the plan is to be back in person for 2022, Together we will take these precautions: He will touch on a variety of political “but we’re open to feedback,” she said. requiring face masks, asking pre-screening questions, performing issues. “The world is burning and we “If virtual is what the community wants temperature checks, sanitizing surfaces and practicing social distancing. need to proudly and loudly amplify going forward, we’ll listen.” JN 1O’Sullivan, et al (2019). Puvvada, K. C., & Simon, J. Z. (2017).2 Compared to industry-leading Oticon Opn S™. *See oƒce these beautiful central ethical teachings for details. †Risk-Free Trial begins on the date of purchase. If you are not completely satisfied, you can return it within the trial period for a full refund or exchange. Trial periods vary by state. See oƒce for complete details and restrictions. This o‘er is in society and in the world at large,” he Registration is open until Feb. 21, the day of the available at most HearingLife oƒces. Check with your local provider. O‘er expires 2/28/21. Information within this o‘er may vary or be subject to change. said, via email. event. For more information go to: limmudaz.org.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 7 BRIEFS

LOCAL

Holocaust survivors get second vaccine at press conference On Feb. 12, Sheryl Bronkesh, president of the Phoenix Holocaust Association, received her second COVID-19 vaccine alongside Rise Stillman and Frieda Allweiss, both Holocaust survivors. Initially, the three were scheduled to be vaccinated Monday, but their appointments were moved up by the Arizona Department of Health Services so the event could be broadcast live. Dr. Cara Christ, ADHS director, was on hand to vaccinate all three. In January, Bronkesh worked with Rep. Alma Hernandez (LD-3), Kathy Rood, program manager for Jewish social Rise Stillman, a Holocaust survivor, receives her services at Jewish Family & Children’s second COVID-19 vaccine from Dr. Cara Christ, Service and Christ to assist Holocaust director of Arizona Department of Health Services. PHOTO BY SHERYL BRONKESH survivors and their spouses who were having troubles navigating the state’s Jen Zak’s daughter, Zoey, is one of website to book vaccine appointments. Zappa’s students at DJA, and when she More than 40 survivors and their spouses discovered that her employer, PayPal, have been vaccinated since last month. was looking for nominations of educators “We do consider everybody over the who had gone above and beyond during age of 75 important, but we also know the pandemic, Zak asked her daughter that these individuals are survivors of a for advice. very tragic situation,” Christ said. “We Zoey Zak responded immediately that wanted to make sure that they were it should be Zappa. able to continue to survive in the face of “She is a great teacher who loves all of another tragic situation.” her students,” she told her mother. “She When Bronkesh let ADHS know she stays calm in challenging situations.” was being asked by multiple members of Zak, a single parent working from the press to allow survivors’ vaccinations home, has been grateful over the past to be filmed, the department facilitated months to Zappa and the other teachers the three appointments and held a press at DJA for providing enthusiastic and conference at which Christ, Bronkesh engaging lesson plans virtually. and the two survivors could speak and “As a parent, I have admired her answer questions. work to keep students safe, immediately “Quite frankly, I’ve done a lot of shifting in light of rising cases with speaking in my day but I have never speed,” said Zak faced that many cameras,” Bronkesh PayPal’s “We Love Our Teachers” said. “Fortunately, I don’t have a fear campaign is a way “ to show a small token of public speaking, but there were a lot of appreciation for those who have stood of cameras.” Once Christ and Bronkesh out to us and impacted our families and spoke, Christ vaccinated the survivors and communities in a positive way amidst Bronkesh. While they waited 15 minutes all those challenges,” said Ashley Ollie, to ensure there were no bad reactions, the community and employee engagement survivors answered questions. representative for PayPal, via email. Since news broke of her work, Bronkesh “We’re looking forward to putting a has received several calls from people in smile on Emily’s face and thanking her for other states looking to do the same thing the impact she has on our local families for survivors. She is grateful for all the and the community.” help she received, especially from Rood At Friday’s Zoom event, DJA teachers, who is someone many survivors know students and administrators watched and trust which makes the process easier. as Zappa was praised for her work and “Kathy helped when I got overwhelmed presented with a plaque and check for and has been helping tremendously,” $250. “For being an awesome teacher,” Bronkesh said of the more than 70 was the message in the check’s memo line. appointments they’ve made. “This has “Thank you so much,” said Zappa Come socialize been a monumental amount of work.” during the Zoom presentation. “I’m speechless.” with us Local teacher honored for her efforts Zappa knew that she had been chosen during pandemic before Friday, but the check and honorary On Feb. 13, Emily Zappa, teacher and plaque were a surprise. With tears in her jewishaz.com ◆ jewishaz.wordpress.com head of school at Desert Jewish Academy, eyes she thanked her “awesome” class. ◆ facebook.com/JewishAZ twitter.com/phxjnews received a special thank-you plaque and “It’s what I wake up to and look forward instagram.com/phxjnews ◆ pinterest.com/jewishaz check for $250 from PayPal for being one to,” she said about teaching her students. of five local teachers who have made a “Let’s have a pizza party,” she laughed positive impact on the community during and thanked Zak, fellow teachers a difficult year. and PayPal. JN

8 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM HEADLINES

LOCAL You should know … Erika Neuberg SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR advocate for the US-Israel relationship that fit How can you improve upon the work of the with my broader beliefs. previous commission? rika Neuberg spent 25 years in private To help promote democracy and good I am deeply appreciative of the efforts of Epractice as a clinical psychologist before things for the world, I spent over 30 years the previous commission. Ten years ago they transitioning to a life-coaching practice three involved in AIPAC and pro-Israel politics worked very hard, but they struggled from years ago. Over the course of her professional — to some degree. It really trains people to the beginning because they didn’t all enter life she carefully honed her listening and stay laser-focused on a policy issue and to see the process with the same vision in mind. The negotiating skills. She now stands ready to things through a nonpartisan or bipartisan Arizona Constitution is very clear about our use both as part of the Arizona Independent lens. It’s the combination of my psychological requirements for redistricting — it’s not open Redistricting Commission. background and my experience with AIPAC to personal interpretation. There’s a hierarchy: It’s been 10 years since the state’s Erika Neuberg speaks in front of a crowd at Con- that helps me work with everybody. We’re first responsible to fulfill all voting acts gregation Beth Tefillah, her synagogue. PHOTO COURTESY congressional and legislative districts were OF ERIKA NEUBERG How can you ensure Arizonans that and requirements, then we’re creating districts drawn, and with new census figures being something as technical and consequential with equal population, then geographic issued, Neuberg threw her hat in the ring to and it’s best for us not to bring emotions into as redistricting will be a fair process? compactness, then communities of interest, serve as the IRC’s independent chair. Along this process at all actually, We are going to make every effort to be as and the very last requirement — if all these with two Republicans and two Democrats, she The more we apply data, facts, science and transparent and as accessible as possible. At other criteria were satisfied — we consider will draw new districts for the state determining the Constitution and leave emotion out, we’ll every meeting so far we have been collecting competitiveness of districts. how voters will be represented. She won her get a better product. public comments. We’re a little bit restricted If you go back and really study the way they position with unanimous support, which could The early months are focused on building right now with COVID and meeting did their work, they didn’t see eye to eye on be a boon for her efforts in bridging the state’s the commission from the ground up really, it’s virtually. We can’t have people come and the constitutional priorities. I made it very political divide. entirely independent so we’re addressing things publicly testify. But we’re tapping into a wide clear how I interpreted the Constitution and A political science major in college, Neuberg like updating a website, finding office space, range of public opinion. how I would lead the process. Given that I was is also a student of history and recognizes hiring our staff, those kinds of things. It’s going Shortly, we’ll begin to go out into the selected unanimously by the Commission on that for democracy to thrive, voters need to to be a little logistical for a while. We’ll also be community and meet with all different Appellate Court and unanimously by the four feel secure that their voices will be heard. hiring attorneys. A very important part of the communities of interest, all over the state, to commissioners. I see that as collective bias that She is ready to foster consensus with her new process will be hiring mapping consultants. understand their needs and their perspectives. we’re all on the same exact mission. colleagues as well as to listen closely to what At least we’re a little clearer about the rules Our hope is to have everything as organized the public has to add. You’re going to be talking to different that we’re going to follow. and the infrastructure in place so that as soon Neuberg spoke to Jewish News about what communities? as the census data comes out, we can hit the How can you ensure transparency? inspired her to get involved in the sometimes We’re going to make sure that we’re meeting ground running. JN “full contact sport” of politics and how her with rural communities that have very different There’s an agenda that by law we’re required background helps her to bring people together needs, communities on the border that may to put out to the public 48 hours in advance, and find common ground. have unique challenges and our tribal nations and the public has an ability to know each ENGINEERS that have unique needs. Different religious and every week what topics are going to be Why did you want to be involved in this discussed. And we’re limited to only discussing process? groups may have different needs and different ethnic groups in our state need to have those items on the agenda so the public Over the last few years I have become isn’t left out. They have the opportunity to increasingly concerned about the tone and representation. There are different economic levels, and real urban blighted areas. participate as much as possible. tenor of our public discourse. I see a rise in We want a transparent and accessible process. identity politics, a rise of a tribal mentality, and There’s no one agreed upon definition of IS SEEKING THE FOLLOWING And I can be a helpful conduit to encourage I see less productivity and civility on Capitol what a community of interest is. And we will ENGINEERING TALENT IN PHOENIX, AZ: the community to learn about our process and Hill. I’m somebody who takes action when listen to all groups. to engage in political expression and engage TECHNICAL SPECIALIST, CAE NVH: there’s something that concerns me. I began Do you have confidence you and your in government. Lead vehicle projects for NVH dev & analysis of to think a year ago of what I can do to help colleagues can effectively listen to so many full vehicle system and subsystems. Req’s Masters The process can get in the weeds, so how the country that I love and that affords me so disparate communities? degree in Mech., Industr., Manuf., Structural Eng., many freedoms. I am a good listener, and I will listen to would you describe the big picture? or closely related w/ 2 yrs exp as a mech, NVH CAE I have particular political expertise of bringing feedback on the left, right and middle. With the The basic foundation of democracy is or structural Engineer. Travel req’d. Republicans and Democrats together and the open meeting laws in Arizona, we’re actually representation of all different communities redistricting process could use somebody somewhat limited and I’m not able to really of interest. If the job isn’t done properly SR. MATERIALS ENGINEER: who is truly independent and beholden to do much work directly with my commissioners the people of our state won’t be adequately Responsibilities include material selection, nobody, somebody genuinely committed behind the scenes at all. All work is done in represented. That’s just foundational. development, & validation of materials for automotive application. Req’s Masters degree in to the common good, somebody with the the public eye. My skills will have to be used For me, the opportunity to serve my state material science, Chem. Eng, or closely related skill sets to be resilient and fight through in those public meetings. I’ll try to keep the that I love and believe in is an incredible what is oftentimes a challenging, tense and honor. I encourage the entire community to w/ 2 yrs exp in materials selection, validation, temperature down. development, analysis, and reporting. mistrustful process. The commission that narrows down the learn about and be involved in the process and I talked with a couple of people to get their applicants and selects the finalists did an partake in American government. The more LEAD BODY CONTROLS ENGINEER: we understand and the more we do together, perspective about ways I can make a difference excellent job of picking people. And the Lead the body-controls software-dev team and I got positive feedback from both the left state leaders who picked the four other that helps break down barriers, because the including task management, coordinating and the right. They recommended I put myself commissioners, my four colleagues, are people process is bringing people together for a development needs, managing software releases, up for service to the state. of great character and have a background of shared goal. and providing technical leadership in software What in your background gives you the getting things done. They’re mature, seasoned That’s something that can be really positive development using Simulink. Req’s Masters degree in Elec., Soft., Mech. or closely related w/ 2 yrs exp. confidence you can do this? people and I have a really good feeling about and exciting. or Bach. degree and 5 yrs exp. Travel req’d. My psychological background has led me our ability to be collaborative and avoid some With all the recent political news and anxiety, to have the skills to bring different groups of of the nastiness that can happen. do you feel added pressure? SEND TECHNICAL RESUME TO ATTN: people together. Politics is a full contact sport and these are This has to be done. Our mission is the HR, NIKOLA MOTOR CO., And I also credit the American Israel Public very serious issues. We fully expect things to get same and is equally necessary whether there’s 4141 E BROADWAY ROAD, Affairs Committee. I ended up getting involved heated, but I have a lot of confidence in the political drama out there or not. This is a PHOENIX, AZ 85040 in AIPAC in my very early 20s as a way to five of us that we are in it for the right reasons. process that’s just fundamental to democracy

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 9 OPINION Editorials Beyond Donald Trump ‘Soft-core’ Holocaust denial enate Minority Leader Mitch attackers of the Capitol who tried to stop e have commented before on during World War II, in which the SMcConnell joined 42 other Republican the counting of Electoral College ballots. WPoland’s effort to reframe authors wrote that Edward Malinowski, senators in voting to acquit former presi- All of this while the commander in chief Holocaust history, and to whitewash the the mayor of a Polish village, allowed a dent Donald Trump on the charge of did nothing to end the attack. involvement of Polish citizens in Nazi Jewish woman to survive by helping her incitement of insurrection. The 57-43 vote The House managers’ presentation was atrocities during the Holocaust. The pass as a non-Jew. But the woman is also in the Senate failed to meet the two-thirds polished and prepared, and was tighter effort attracted attention a couple of quoted as saying the mayor may have majority required, and Trump was acquit- and more compelling than in Trump’s first years ago, with the passage of Poland’s been complicit in a massacre of local Jews ted in his second impeachment trial. But impeachment trial a year ago. Contrast “anti-defamation law,” which made it by German soldiers. the theater didn’t end there. Nor do the that with the last-minute Trump defense unlawful to claim that Polish citizens were For that, the historians were sued consequences for Trump. team, all of whom seemed remarkably out responsible — individually or collectively for “violating the honor” of the mayor Shortly after casting his “no” vote, of their league. Nonetheless, the defense — for Nazi war crimes, including the — who was acquitted of complicity in McConnell took the Senate floor. In a pre- did present arguments that seem to satisfy death of some 3 million Polish Jews. The the murders in 1950 — by “providing sentation that could have been co-written their demanding client and provided cover law made the violation a criminal offense, inaccurate information.” And the two by the House managers, McConnell for Republicans reluctant to convict. punishable by up to three years in prison, researchers have been accused of “defiling excoriated the former president, saying he But in the end, Trump has been thor- and declared that it could be enforced the good name” of a Polish hero, which was “practically and morally responsible” oughly discredited. And he has shattered anywhere in the world, regardless of supposedly harms all Poles. for the attack on the Capitol on Jan 6. the Republican Party. It will be interesting local laws. The ensuing international The decision, which is being appealed, McConnell went on to explain that he to see how party faithful go about putting outcry eventually caused the law to be is seen as a test of the controversial defa- voted to acquit only because he does not the pieces back together over the next two modified, to make such “defamation” a mation law. But the pursuit of the case believe that the Constitution permits the years. In the meantime, Trump is in for civil offense. shows that Poland is heading further impeachment of a president who is no some rough times ahead. In addition to Poland’s anti-defamation effort won a into xenophobia and self-blindness, longer in office. reported criminal and regulatory investiga- victory last week, when a Warsaw court where mention of an individual’s guilt is Reasonable people can debate the con- tions being pursued in multiple states, the ruled that two authors must apologize seen as an attack on the nation’s honor. stitutionality of the impeachment effort, Trump brand itself is under siege. Banks for tarnishing the memory of a Polish That dangerous attitude supported and even whether the Senate should have and businesses have cut ties, and Trump villager in their book. While the claim in the recently reported questioning of voted to convict. But it doesn’t really is reportedly struggling to find quality the lawsuit focused on allegations about Katarzyna Markusz, a journalist, on sus- matter. The tightly orchestrated trial led professionals to work with him. the actions of a single person, the ruling picion of “slandering the Polish nation” by Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) was an For the good of the country, however, it is all about “national honor,” and the for writing that “Polish participation in overwhelming indictment of Trump, is time to move on. We don’t need further Polish government’s campaign to absolve the Holocaust is a historical fact.” beginning with evidence that made clear investigations of Trump’s role in the Jan. 6 every Pole of complicity in the Holocaust Grabowski, the historian, put it this (in McConnell’s words) “the intensifying attack, or the distraction of Congressional and recast them as innocent victims of way: “The Holocaust is not here to crescendo of conspiracy theories orches- committees trying to extract their retribu- Nazi occupiers. help the Polish ego and morale. It’s a trated by an outgoing president who tion. Instead, the Biden administration Quite simply, Poland seeks to establish drama involving the death of 6 million seemed determined to either overturn the needs to focus on its packed agenda, and national honor through historical amne- people — which seems to be forgotten by voters’ decision or else torch our institu- efforts to reinstate some degree of bipar- sia. Holocaust scholar Deborah Lipstadt the nationalists.” tions on the way out.” tisan governance in Washington. calls the Polish approach “soft-core We have a sacred responsibility The House managers painted a vivid As for Donald Trump — even though Holocaust denial.” to remember, which is part of our picture — aided in part by the selfie-happy the Senate exonerated him, we suspect The Warsaw case concerned “Night “Never Again” commitment. And if mob — of how close members of Congress that history and the vast majority of the Without End,” a 1,700-page book by that means exposing the bad actors in and the vice president came to the guns, American electorate will judge him much historians Jan Grabowski and Barbara Poland or anywhere else, it must baseball bats and bear spray carried by the more harshly. JN Engelking about Polish collaboration be done. JN Commentary Beware: Arizona’s anti-Semitic abortion bans

CIVIA TAMARKIN

mong the so-called abolitionists who want abortion “Regardless of what happens here be concerned about godly government. Amarauding mix criminalized as murder and anti-abortion in D.C.,” he said to the crowd, his We serve Lord Jesus Christ and he orders of white nationalist, groups and individuals associated with group was working in 13 states, “with godly government.” neo-Nazi, Christian domestic terrorism, including a convicted legislation that’s consistent with Sixteen days later, on the 48th militia and QAnon clinic bomber. scripture — that is, in fact, very Christian anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, insurrectionists Jeff Durbin was also there. A pastor legislation that would criminalize Arizona Republican state Rep. Walt storming through the Capitol on Jan. at Apologia Church in Mesa and the abortion.” Revealing that such legislation Blackman introduced draconian anti- 6, calling for the hanging of then-Vice founder of End Abortion Now, which was coming to Arizona, he noted, “It’s abortion legislation requiring the death President Mike Pence and hunting harasses clinics and tries to persuade about the Gospel.” penalty for mothers and doctors. Behind down House Speaker Nancy Pelosi local lawmakers to create sanctuary cities Beside him, a man with the group him was Durbin. with seeming intent to harm, were for the unborn, Durbin live-streamed a Red State Reform who sounded like the Initially, my friends and colleagues prominent anti-abortion militants. The report from across the street as throngs Commander from “The Handmaid’s Stop The Steal rally brought together scaled the building. Tale,” added, “As Christians, we need to SEE TAMARKIN, PAGE 12

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

10 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM OPINION Commentary Working together to help Holocaust survivors

SHERYL BRONKESH

rotecting Holocaust focus to how we could help local survivors We now have several survivors who appointment for a vaccination. Psurvivors is manage the pandemic. When masks tell their stories virtually to classrooms PHA went to work calling all survivor uniquely important. were shown as one of the best ways to around the state. members and gathering pertinent They represent survival prevent transmission but were in short Last month when vaccines became information. We included Kathy Rood, and resilience — and supply, members of the association available to those 75 and older, we Jewish social services manager at Jewish most importantly, they sprang into action. Soon we had many checked in with survivors to see if they Family & Children’s Service who are the remaining eyewitnesses to the people pitching in. Susan Lane, the had appointments only to learn — not works with many survivors. Together, horrors of the Holocaust. As eyewitnesses, daughter of two Holocaust survivors, surprisingly — that online scheduling the partnership of PHA, JFCS, and they are vitally important in educating turned her seamstress skills to sewing was daunting. ADHS has scheduled more than 40 future generations about the lessons of cloth masks. Member Rhonda Greenberg One survivor had secured an survivors for vaccines, plus appointments the Holocaust and what happens when donated fabric and elastic. We provided appointment at 3:45 a.m. at State for non-survivor spouses and their hate goes unchecked. no-cost masks to all survivors and Farm Stadium. The thought of a caregivers. Numerous volunteers have Some local survivors have health also sold masks to support our 90-something-year-old driving to an given generously of their time to vulnerabilities — not just because of their programming. unfamiliar location in the middle of the help with transportation to the State age or medical conditions, but also due To help with the isolation we were all night triggered me to email Arizona Rep. Farm Stadium. to the extreme malnutrition and physical feeling, we started regular check-in calls. Alma Hernandez for help. Through her As president of PHA, I am beyond torture they survived. Board member Elaine Goldenthal ramped advocacy, a Zoom meeting was scheduled grateful for the help provided our Phoenix Holocaust Association up a phone tree to regularly call survivors. with a staffer in the governor’s office. community of Holocaust survivors by believes that one of our most important Our monthly Café Europa luncheons While his information was helpful, we Rep. Hernandez, Christ and her staff, responsibilities is caring for the needs of went on hiatus. By May, we were voiced our concern that survivors — the Kathy Rood and JFCS, as well as our our remaining survivors. Pre-pandemic, delivering Café Europa in a bag to the youngest of whom is nearing 80 — members who have heeded the call to we focused on the social needs of survivors, doorsteps of survivors. One month we would be unable to navigate the online help in many ways. harnessing their experiences to teach the even included a roll of toilet paper with appointment system. By collectively protecting the lives next generation, and remembrance of each meal. The next day, I heard from of Holocaust survivors, the entire those lost in the Holocaust. Then we tried to help those who were Dr. Cara Christ, director of the community is enhanced. JN How things have changed in the willing to take the technology plunge and Arizona Department of Health Services. past 12 months. get set up on Zoom so they could join in She and her staff would help any Sheryl Bronkesh is the president of the Phoenix Since last March, PHA pivoted our the new world of virtual programming. Holocaust survivor obtain an Holocaust Association. #JDAIM — Make the 'A' stand for action

AMY HUMMELL

ebruary has a variety the agency opened its first residential help finding a friend who can assist with acceptance and inclusion. Fof noteworthy home for individuals with disabilities. a child's participation in a program. For You will easily see how action not qualities: the shortest In 2007, Simchat Shabbat was created that, the Friendship Circle is wonderful, only fits in but is a natural progression month, Black History in partnership with Congregation Beth but it could and should be so much to a month of celebrating disability. Month, Valentine’s Day, Israel, and in 2008 came a special needs larger. Gesher social group takes place The rewards outweigh any doubts Arizona Statehood and, Shabbat in a Box. The year 2010 was the on Sunday afternoons with members and you may have, especially when Jesse as of 2009, Jewish Disability Awareness, first b’nai mitzvah for adults, and in 2014, staff. While an occasional guest presenter teaches you about space or Robbie tells Acceptance & Inclusion Month. education professionals assisted with joins in on the fun, the volunteers are the about his adventures and asks if you It all started when two members of the testing for students in Jewish day schools missing piece. are jealous. Jewish Special Education International who required aides as an accommodation. It is not for a lack of asking; it is simply Gesher members are smart, kind and Consortium presented the idea of selecting All these community services brought our lives are so busy. We understand — funny. Gesher activities are interesting a specific month for all communities to about the desire to change the name of the that’s life. and entertaining, but we are not the only raise awareness and share resources on agency to reflect the mission more widely. Now we are asking for you to change group with events and activities planned the topic of disability. The Council for In 2017, Gesher Disability Resources your life — just a little. The pandemic has for the special needs community. Look Jews with Special Needs (CJSN), founded was unveiled along with Gesher Model taught us about hiking, puzzles, cooking to Jewish National Fund’s Special in in 1985 by Becca Hornstein and Joyce Seder and a special needs community and binge-watching shows. We spend Uniform program, JFNA’s disability Berk-Lippincott, was one agency already dance for adults. hours with our “friends” from “Grey’s advocacy, Matan, RespectAbility, leading the way. The programs and services are rooted Anatomy,” “The Queen’s Gambit,” Jewish Family & Children’s Services Hornstein served on the Consortium within the overarching category of “Fauda,” “The Crown” and so many and at your synagogue’s religious and helped prove the need for worldwide inclusion. Being Jews who believe in more. What about spending one hour a school for ways to take action and be inclusion and understanding. Since it tikkun olam as well as mitzvot and week or even one hour a month making a friend. was working in Arizona, which at that tzedakah, inclusion, awareness and connections with real people and taking For many individuals and their families, time was the Wild West, she knew it acceptance practically roll off the tongue. action to make new friends? managing a disability is their way of life. could work everywhere. The goal was for But what about action? For those of you asking how to do One hour a week or even one hour a Jews of all ages with any disability to be Taking action is also a cornerstone of that and what to say to someone with month takes awareness, acceptance and able to participate in the mainstream of Jewish life where we stand up for what a disability, we can talk you through it, inclusion to the next level. #JDAIM21 Jewish life. we believe in and watch out for our make suggestions and even offer a training and beyond! JN When families of individuals with special neighbors and friends. We all know the session. Or just do the simplest thing needs asked for services, CJSN responded. Amy Hummell is the executive director of Gesher power of friendship, and we can always and look to your heart. What do you like Disability Resources. In 1989, it helped Jewish children adapt use more friends. to do? How do you want to be treated? For resources, visit inclusioninnovations.com; to and enjoy Jewish Camp. In 2001, The No. 1 request Gesher receives is for Then go back to the words awareness, jewishtogether.org/jdam; and gesherdr.org.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 11 RELIGIOUS LIFE

TORAH STUDY SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING FEB. 19 - 5:59 P.M. Assimilation is the wrong choice FEB. 26 - 6:05 P.M. PARSHAH TERUMAH hundreds of thousands of Jews to disappear why? What terrible thing did they do to SHABBAT ENDS EXODUS 25:1-27:19 from amongst our people. deserve such a horrific decree against them? FEB. 20 - 6:55 P.M. Here we clearly needed defiance. Our sages teach us that the Jews began to RABBI YOSSI LEVERTOV FEB. 27 - 7:01 P.M. Most of us would much rather not assimilate, they acted as if living in Shushan have to choose between standing up or and Persia was their birthright, their land hroughout blending in. However, there are times and their people. Their mistake was that history, due to in our lives when we experience this they adopted the Persian culture and way Find area congregations at jewishaz.com, where T you can also find our 2020 Community Directory. governmental or internal conflict and have to make a of life, customs and traditions. societal pressure, conscious decision: Do we treasure our Just a couple of years later they were Jewish values and culture were usually at own Jewish value system or assume an allowed to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. odds with the surrounding environment, assimilationist mentality by blending into Unfortunately, very few wanted to leave to correct the spiritual source of the evil and so Jews always had to make one of two the American melting pot around us? their comfortable homes in exile and move decree, namely the Jewish surrender to a choices: defiance or compliance. There is a constant tug of war between to Israel; so assimilated were they after just foreign way of life and living. He would One known example happened defiance and deference; how do we navigate 70 years of living in the diaspora. not bow his head to anything contrary to during the time of the destruction of the these challenges? Mordechai realized that the root of this Jewish belief. second Temple, when a group of Jewish This question was always relevant to the terrible decree was not political, it was Thus, Mordechai was encouraging rebels refused to listen to the pleas Jewish people, but all the more so in our not just the wicked Haman, it was not the Jewish people to correct their ways and warnings of the Jewish sages to age of extreme social media sharing and ordinary anti-Semitic motivation. Rather, by changing to a “fight and not flight” strike a deal with the Romans, which public pressure to express our opinions and it stemmed from something much deeper; approach, as to how they practice would have spared them from the feelings. What is the proper approach for a it came about because of the Jews’ desire their Judaism. To always stay enemy’s wrath. These rebels burned vast Jew today in 2021? to assimilate and become Persian, as was strong and maintain Jewish traditions, and quantities of food supplies and other We are close to the joyous holiday of the case in Europe in the 19th century to recognize that our salvation is not in essentials that would have sustained the Purim, so let us glean some answers from and various other exiles throughout the hands of man, but in the hands of G-d. city for years in order to force the Jerusalem the Purim story, which despite taking our history. Purim reminds us that nature is just a population to fight for their lives against place thousands of years ago, is just as Therefore, if the decree against the Jews facade hiding the true source of this world; the Romans. relevant today. was because of a spiritual malady, then the ultimately G-d is in control. Taking up that position was a The Jews in Persia lived very comfortably, antidote has to be a spiritual renaissance. This was true then and certainly complete disaster that unfortunately as a thriving community, well integrated This was the reason Mordechai first went true today. led to hundreds of thousands of deaths into the local Persian society. They held to gather the children to pray together with Fortunately, we are blessed to live and the destruction of Jerusalem — in this political power; Esther was the queen him and to teach them Torah. in a country that gives us the freedom case the great sages suggested compliance. and Mordechai, the leader of the Jewish Only afterwards did he use his connections and encourages us to live as practicing More recently, as a response to relentless community, was even credited with saving in the palace. Jews, enabling us to be “a light unto European anti-Semitism, there were efforts the king’s life from an assassination attempt. He also refused to bow down to Haman, the nations.” JN by some in the Jewish community to Yet, seemingly out of nowhere, the Jews even though that would endanger not assimilate into Western Europe’s culture. were threatened with nothing less than only his life but the lives of all the Jewish Rabbi Yossi Levertov is the director of Chabad of This too was a colossal failure that caused genocide. The question begs to be asked, people. Why? Because Mordechai sought Scottsdale.

TAMARKIN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 around the country laughingly dismissed hospitals from referring or consulting As Arizonans, as Americans and of any law that gives preference to or the bill as “Arizona craziness,” until I on abortion and contraceptives, these especially, as Jews, it is imperative that forces belief in one religion. insisted this was no aberration — not bills are moving swiftly through the we sound alarms and rise up to defeat Reproductive justice, the human right in a state that boasts some of the most Arizona Legislature. They effectively these bills from becoming law. The battle to have a child or not have a child, and to extremist anti-abortion laws in the county. remove protections in current law for goes beyond a woman’s right to bodily raise that child in a safe, viable, sustainable Not in a state that long has been a test ending a pregnancy or experiencing autonomy and reproductive justice. This environment is the framework through run for anti-abortion laws. Not in a state pregnancy loss. By designating a fetus as is a fight to fend off an encroaching which National Council of Jewish Women that was first to mandate 24-hour waiting a person, this bill could turn anyone who theocracy and protect our religious advocates for social justice. But the periods, forced sonograms, a plethora of is pregnant into a criminal. freedom as Jews. And that is not an imminent danger posed by the extremist intrusive patient questionnaires and more Worse, a bill that provides full protection alarmist overstatement. anti-abortion legislation demands required medical reports filed with the and immunity to a doctor who chooses Jewish law is clear that life begins at we shift the paradigm and recognize state than any other field in the practice to opt-out of treating a patient because birth and that there is no personhood what is happening through the lens of medicine. of a religious objection and makes no until birth, according to the Mishnah of anti-Semitism. As expected, the first-degree homicide exception or accommodation for a (Ohalot 7:6). Judaism also teaches The nexus between Christian bill, SB 2650, was just the start of an life-or-death medical emergency. The that the mother’s life comes first and ideologues, white supremacists and anti- onslaught of radical, restrictive bills — collateral damage from legislatures that the fetus may be sacrificed to save abortionists has been developing for 40 all intended to outlaw abortion and and courts intervening in reproductive her life, unless the baby’s head has years. We saw it explode on Jan. 6 and contraception by granting personhood health care and the tragic consequences already emerged. we see it erupting in Arizona and other to a fetus at every stage of development. of religious refusal of patient treatment Our freedom to practice Judaism states. Unless we do everything in our is being trampled by Arizona’s anti- Fertilized eggs, zygotes, embryos abound across the country. Studies power to stop this force, we might well and fetuses would have full rights, show a direct correlation between U.S. abortion personhood legislation. There is face a new Inquisition as Marranos on the privileges and protections as people under maternal mortality rate and lack of access no subterfuge, no misunderstanding. The road to Gilead. JN Arizona law. to abortion and the full spectrum of bills represent expressed and purposeful From requiring burial or cremation reproductive health care. Not surprisingly, strategies to enshrine Christian beliefs Civia Tamarkin, president of National Council of for aborted remains and prohibiting the United States has the highest into law and they blatantly violate Jewish Women, Arizona, is an award-winning abortions for genetic abnormalities, to rate of maternal mortality of any the Establishment Clause of the First journalist and filmmaker of the documentary banning medical schools and university industrialized country. Amendment, which prevents the passage “Birthright: A War Story.”

12 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION

WONDERFUL WEDDINGS Matchmaking during a pandemic

MICHELE CZOPP

y plan in 2020 was eliminate someone after only one meeting Mto create a private when they should understand that most office space to meet people don’t feel comfortable opening and interview Jewish up right away. I encourage singles to singles seeking a partner. be open to going on more than one Mitzvah Matchmaker, the complimentary date. Connections don’t always happen Jewish matchmaking program I launched immediately. Sometimes it is shared just a year earlier, was busier than ever. experience that bonds people and brings But just as the installation of the glass them closer. walls and door were being finalized, the I have found my true passion in COVID-19 pandemic broke out. connecting people. Sometimes it has Within a week, my two adult daughters turned out to be a business contact and flew home from their respective cities not necessarily a romantic match, but I to work and study remotely for what feel there is always common ground when ended up being many months. My special people from the same culture and religion needs son stopped going to his day get together. program, and our diamond and jewelry My goal for next fall is to resume business was closed for six weeks. It meeting singles in person in my newly felt like life for everyone came to a renovated office space located at The screeching halt. Promenade in Scottsdale. Rabbi Pinchas Suddenly, my matchmaking website Allouche of Congregation Beth Tefillah started getting inundated with requests advised me to provide my matchmaking for appointments. During the pandemic, services complimentary since it’s a people were isolated and lonely. A new couple sits together talking and passing time. "COUPLES" BY BEST COUPLES IS LICENSED UNDER CC BY-SA 2.0 mitzvah. Pandemic or not, that’s what But they also had more time not living I’ll continue to do. JN in the rat race, and they realized they open-air restaurant or home patio — even they usually follow up with me to give consciously wanted to prioritize seeking at a park. However, when it was too hot a report, which helps me to learn more Michele Czopp is the owner of Mitzvah Matchmaker. a life partner. or too cold, they had to get more creative about them and their dating style. For more information, visit mitzvahmatchmaker.com I had to pause for a while until I could with their date locations. There are some incredible, successful reorganize my busy household’s new Changing my matchmaking methods singles ranging anywhere from situation and work around everyone’s during COVID has not been easy mid-20s to mid-80s who have reached schedules. Finally, I started accepting either. The very basis of my program is out to me via referral. I am very discreet interviews via video chat with singles all to get to know individuals by spending when sharing information about the around the country. quality time with them while I fill out singles I work with, and I never give Dating during a pandemic posed its personal questionnaires. Singles talk out last names because I want the first own unique set of challenges. The singles more when they feel less of an automatic meeting to be organic without any would begin the dating process via text obligation to sit quietly and fill out preconceived notions. and then move to video chat. Some were paperwork. This allows me to really It is not all about the looks; you can fall hesitant to meet due to the pandemic and connect with them in order to help find in love with someone’s personality if you others were willing to take more risks. a compatible match. just give it a chance. COVID has been with us for all four I am very intuitive, so I must admit I have found that most younger seasons of the year. This has posed certain that interviewing an individual over singles miss out on meeting other difficulties based on geographic location FaceTime is not as helpful as in person. I great singles because they rule them and climate in any given season. During don’t get much of an impression of their out based on someone’s response to mild months it was ideal for singles to personality, or what they want and don’t a text. They also often dismiss the meet at an outdoor coffee house, an want. However, after they go on a date, possibility of a connection because they

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JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 13 SPECIAL SECTION

WONDERFUL WEDDINGS Love gave couples hope during Holocaust

SOPHIE PANZER | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

egina Goodman and Sam Spiegel’s His prediction came true, and they name of racial purity. Hedwig Gluckstein, deportations began, only 8,300 survived Rfirst meeting and early relationship wed in a displaced persons camp in however, refused to leave her Jewish the Holocaust. And of that small number, had many hallmarks of ordinary teenage 1947. During the ceremony, the rabbi husband, Georg Gluckstein, and their son half of them were in these types of love: friendship, flirting and finding ways recited a prayer in honor of their family Fritz. When father and son were rounded intermarried families, they were married to be alone together. members, most of whom had been up by the Gestapo in Berlin, she joined to somebody who was categorized as Less ordinary is the fact that they met murdered, and the couple bowed their hundreds of other Aryan women outside Aryan or they were categorized like Fritz in a forced labor camp in as mixed race. So Hedwig Pionki, Poland, during the and women like her, who Nazi occupation. stayed in these marriages, this The United States act of love might have really Holocaust Memorial Museum saved the lives of thousands shared their love story during of people,” she said. “Acts of Resistance: Love Many other couples did not Stories and the Holocaust.” make it through the war. The Facebook Live event, MacNeill said LGBTQ which was hosted by museum couples were especially historians Lindsay MacNeill vulnerable, and gay men and Edna Friedberg, was were persecuted as enemies of part of the Stay Connected the Reich. project, a series of Holocaust Gad Beck and Manfred education webinars created Lewin managed to have a in the absence of in-person romance in the midst of programming. tragedy. They met in a Jewish MacNeill said Goodman youth group and signed up for and Spiegel found ways to air raid patrol so they could meet and talk at the water spend time alone together. spigot even though men and MacNeill and Feinberg women were supposed to be showed a booklet of love notes kept apart. and sketches Lewin created for “One time, Sam said he Beck, which now sits in the received 12 lashes for talking museum’s archives. to Regina, but he said it was “Night exists for more than worth it,” she said. sleep which is why, my love, The young lovers were we stayed awake so often,” an separated at the end of the excerpt reads. war when the Germans loaded When Lewin and his prisoners onto cattle cars family were summoned for and transported them to deportation, Beck donned Auschwitz-Birkenau. Before a Hitler Youth uniform and they were forced into their demanded a meeting with him William and Helen Luksenburg at their wedding in 1947 COURTESY OF UNITED STATES HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM AND WILLIAM AND HELEN LUKSENBURG gender-segregated sections (he was protected by his half- of the concentration camp, Aryan status.) Once he and Spiegel told Goodman to Lewin were alone, he begged meet him in his hometown, him to run away with him Kozienice, if she survived. and go into hiding, but Lewin They were moved around wouldn’t leave his family. various labor camps until “NIGHT EXISTS FOR MORE THAN They boarded a train east, liberation, when they and Beck never saw his love returned to their respective SLEEP WHICH IS WHY, MY LOVE, again; records show Lewin hometowns to search for and his family were gassed at their families. WE STAYED AWAKE SO OFTEN.” Auschwitz. When Spiegel learned Friedberg posted a link to Goodman had survived, he Lewin’s booklet for viewers sent a horse and buggy to to examine. bring her to Kozienice, and “You can actually kind of do the two were married in a a flipbook, go through it and displaced persons camp in see the various drawings, the Germany shortly after. They stayed heads in grief. They later immigrated to the detention center in what became passionate, romantic, maybe not the most together for 70 years. the United States and became volunteers known as the Rosenstrasse Protest to sophisticated teenage love poetry that’s in William Luksenberg and Helen at USHMM. demand the release of their loved ones. there, but something that just really drives Chilewicz met under similar circumstances, MacNeill also told the story of an Everyone in the center was eventually home what this relationship meant as a talking through a fence in the Gleiwitz interfaith family whose love helped save released. Although Georg and Fritz solace and sustenance to these teenagers,” labor camp between their barracks and Jewish members from deportation. Gluckstein had to perform forced labor, she said. JN writing letters to each other. Luksenberg When the Nazis came to power, they they were not deported to death camps. promised Chilewicz that they would encouraged Aryan women with Jewish “Of the 73,000 Jews who were living Sophie Panzer is a staff writer for the Jewish survive the war and he would marry her. husbands to divorce their spouses in the in Berlin in October of 1941 when Exponent, a Jewish News-affiliated publication.

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JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 15 SPECIAL SECTION

HOME DESIGN & REAL ESTATE Phoenix-area property owners grapple with politics of short-term rentals

NICOLE RAZ | STAFF WRITER

iving in a neighborhood sprinkled would give cities the ability to enforce taking advantage of the Lwith short-term rentals hasn’t been the occupancy limit — two adults per system,” he said, point- so bad for Eric Awerbuch — for the most bedroom — and fine hosts who do not ing to rental properties in part. There have been two or three noisy register or provide contact information Paradise Valley. “If you’re nights in the roughly six years he’s lived with local jurisdictions as required by paying $2 to $4 million for in Park Scottsdale. He only had to call state law. a home, you don’t want to the police once, he said, when a group John Choi, a policy manager for have somebody next door of rowdy renters in the home behind him Airbnb, released a statement support- having a rager,” he said. — operated by a management company ing the Senate bill. “The vast majority Being able to have a — were causing a ruckus at 3 a.m. of hosts in Arizona contribute positively short-term rental property Scott Lorsch has a rental property to their neighborhoods and we look has been a boon to Lorsch, near McDonald Road and the 101 in forward to supporting state and local and provided a real income Scottsdale. The majority of the time, officials in their efforts to develop sen- stream. He doesn’t want to his renters don’t cause any issues for the sible rules that preserve homeowners’ see that opportunity taken neighborhood. And when they do, he property rights and the economic benefits away, but at the same time hears about it. “My neighbors right across home sharing provides for Arizonians,” the rules of the playing the street know me very well and keep he said. field have not been clear, an eye on my property,” he said. “They An Airbnb spokesman said the com- he said. There is a lack of don’t want anybody bad and I don’t want pany proactively suspended or removed enforcement of the limited anybody bad.” 50 listings across the state that had guidelines in place. Eric Awerbuch stands in the front of his home in the Park Scottsdale But not everybody’s experiences have received complaints or violated its policies In December, 33 mayors neighborhood on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021. PHOTO BY MARINA AWERBUCH been as easy, which is why there are sev- regarding parties. There are more than across the state sent a let- eral bills taking aim at short-term rentals 25,000 Airbnb listings in Arizona. ter to the CEOs of Airbnb and Expedia related to short-term rentals are noise that dominate some neighborhoods in A spokesman for Vrbo, which has more Group, Inc. asking them to “immedi- complaints and parking issues. “When Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. than 15,000 listings in the state, did not ately end lobbying activities designed to officers arrive to these calls, a variety Arizona Rep. Aaron Lieberman (LD- respond to a request for comment. prevent reform” of the 2016 law, and of issues can be discovered, to include 28) is attempting to repeal the state’s ban Gov. Doug Ducey enacted the ban outlined how short-term rentals have underage drinking, drug offenses and on allowing cities and towns to regulate on local oversight in 2016, and in 2019 harmed citizens and neighborhoods. property damage,” he said. short-term rentals. The ban was contextu- he enacted legislation adding certain Once peaceful neighborhoods have Awerbuch said he is aware that some alized as a way to ensure the state is at the state restrictions on short-term rental been turned into hotspots for unruly, communities and neighborhoods have forefront of the sharing economy. “What operations. For example, the law pro- noisy and large gatherings, and houses had a tougher time with short-term rent- we got is something quite different, which hibits rentals from holding special events “are being gobbled up by investors,” the als than he has. He sees short-term rentals is companies buying houses and turning that would otherwise require a permit or mayors said. as a big benefit, saying tourism is good them into full-time boutique hotels and license, or using a rental as a retail space, During the pandemic, short-term rent- for the economy, and the houses he sees neighborhoods throughout the Valley,” restaurant or banquet hall. als have hosted “unsafe and unwelcome used are “immaculately kept,” boosting Lieberman said. C.J. Karamargin, Ducey’s spokesman, parties for hundreds of people,” the may- property values. Meanwhile, Rep. John Kavanaugh did not respond to a request for com- ors said, and, in some communities, more “I think if the owners [of short-term (LD-23), is looking to resolve the issue of ment about the regulation of short-term than half of citizen police calls relate to rentals] reached out to the people around “party houses and cars all over the street rentals. problems with short-term rentals. the house, I think that would put a lot of and noise all night” in a way that allows Lorsch said he’s on board with more Paradise Valley Police Department people who are maybe having complaints “reasonable regulation” by municipali- regulations for short-term rentals — spokesman Freeman Carney said the at ease, instead of having to take drastic ties. He supports a state Senate bill that at least somewhat. “There’s people majority of calls the department receives measures,” Awerbuch said. JN One of the top 50 Realtors in Phoenix/Scottsdale as voted by Phoenix Magazine! All Real Estate Agents BUYING? 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16 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM SPECIAL SECTION

HOME DESIGN & REAL ESTATE ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS / ALEKSANDRA ZLATKOVIC / ALEKSANDRA PLUS IMAGES / GETTY ISTOCK Mirrors, mirrors on the wall

BARBARA KAPLAN

irrors can show and color can be inserted on walls and Mmore than a furniture or mixed with other types reflection. For of glass to create design accents and designing a home, details. Mirror mixed with metal is mirrors can have a particularly stunning because both unique and exciting materials are reflective, but create contrast affect that enhances and definition from each other. and significantly changes a room. There are many fun things to do When selecting the placement of a with mirrors that are unexpected. mirror, consider two things: function Whenever I hang a mirror, I first determine ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS / HIKESTERSON and aesthetic. if it can be turned, 45 degrees, 90 The most important consideration degrees or 180 degrees. It doesn’t have in deciding where a mirror should be the same limitations of hanging a picture is deciding what is being reflected. or photo in terms of the direction it must Whatever that thing is, with the help of be hung. The shape can become the a mirror, you will be seeing it twice in the focal point. room, so keep that in mind. Have you ever seen a mirrored floor? This functional element also becomes It’s pretty spectacular. If not the whole the aesthetic. So before hanging it, ask floor, you can inlay small pieces of mirror yourself if you want to reflect something into wood or tile. in the room or make it possible for people I once had a client with a smaller-than- to see themselves. standard piano that needed refinishing. When deciding where to most We decided to mirror the entire piano effectively place and hang a mirror, instead, creating something truly unique. remember the three S’s — size, shape Recently, I used black mirror for a and style. Additionally, if there is a frame, banister on a staircase. First, we built the you need to select the material, color and posts and then mirrored them. We built texture. It also has to fit the space and black-mirrored étagères on either side of $ the decor of the room. Then there are the fireplace in the adjoining room and 1,000.00 OFF choices for the edge. Decide if you prefer also mirrored the fireplace. It gave the A Full Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel a beveled edge, plain edge or custom home a dramatic look. Valid through 02.28.2021 matting touching the frame. There are In my home office, I mirrored the space many things to consider for even just between the work counter and upper one mirror. cabinets. I sit opposite the mirror, and it FARI DESIGNS & REMODELING LLC Mirror as a material comes in many reflects the garden window behind me. www.faridesigns.com colors — clear, black, bronze, gray, rose This way, I have the benefit of the window and green, to mention just a few. I love light behind me and the window’s 480-522-8564 using colored mirrors and even combine reflection in front of me. INTERIOR DESIGNER & GENERAL CONTRACTOR the colors in a design to be a frame for When you love your room and want the mirror. They add wonderful surprise to have double the pleasure, mirrors are KOSHER KITCHENS • BATHS • WHOLE-HOUSE REMODELING • ADDITIONS and interest. the answer. Mirrors are thought to make rooms Remember, rooms have no feelings, • 28 Years Experience look larger and often brighter because you do. JN • Award Winning Design & Construction Team they reflect light. They can add sparkle • All Five-Star Google Reviews by themselves. And we can also mirror Barbara Kaplan offers personal interior design guidance, ideas and solutions for free in her monthly walls, ceilings, and architectural details Zoom class. Email [email protected] Call Today For Complimentary Consultation for dramatic effect. to claim a seat or visit: BarbaraKaplan.com & Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC 299160 Mirrored pieces in all sizes, shapes YourZoomRoom.com.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 17 SPECIAL SECTION

HOME DESIGN & REAL ESTATE Former Pittsburgh synagogue finds renewed life as affordable housing

DAVID RULLO | CONTRIBUTING WRITER have been having community conversations with arts and cultural organizations, social f the ethos of the renovation of the building justice organizations and other nonprofits. Ithat once housed B’nai Israel synagogue “We’re asking people what challenges could be summed up in three words, they they’re facing,” Bonavoglia said. “We’re might be “reduce, reuse, recycle.” interested to hear how people are functioning The former Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during the pandemic, what they are looking synagogue, built in 1923 and most recently for in a venue, how this kind of venue could home to the Urban League of Greater support their work moving forward.” Pittsburgh Charter School, is set to find new In addition to serving as a space for life as apartments and, perhaps, a collaborative performing and visual arts, Bonavoglia community arts and performance center. and Mayo think it could be used for films, Boston-based Beacon Communities plans lectures and conferences, and could even be to begin construction in late winter or early Beacon Communities plans to create affordable housing in the former synagogue. rented out for events like weddings and b’nei spring this year, converting the former school RENDERING PROVIDED BY BEACON COMMUNITIES mitzvah celebrations. administration wing of the structure into 45 The community might first notice a primarily affordable apartments and seven Beacon’s plans don’t stop with the building creating a network of people in the Pittsburgh project though that doesn’t take place in the units offered at market rates. itself. Its leaders hope to turn the front lawn arts community, including Mayo. The two rotunda. Instead, local artists may have the “We are really approaching the entire into a regenerative farm, repurpose trees that got to talking about creating an arts venue opportunity to have their work printed on development of the site with the lens of have fallen on the property and reuse some of when Mayo learned of the B’nai Israel the wraps around the construction fencing a regenerative community,” said Beacon the windows taken out of the schoolhouse as development project and tentative plans to at the site, much like that outside the Tree Communities Development Director part of a future greenhouse. The developer create a co-working space in the rotunda. of Life building. Courtney Koslow. “We’re thinking about even plans to use hempcrete, a bio-composite That concept didn’t make much sense Mayo has other ideas as well. how we can align our approach to reuse the material that combines the inner woody core to Mayo, who grew up in the synagogue “One of the first projects we’ve been building in a way that aligns with nature and of hemp plants with other products, and and recalled the building’s rich history and talking about doing is called ‘Layer the addresses social justice and environmental natural clay plaster to renovate parts of the beautiful architecture. Instead, she thought Walls,’” she said. “It would be a theatrical concerns at the same time.” structure that have suffered water damage. the rotunda might make a perfect location for presentation of a group that comes in and tells To meet some of those concerns, the Beacon has partnered with Desmone an arts venue that could also provide space for a story about immigration. It’s a story about former structure will not be torn down; rather, Architects and local developers Michael social justice and interfaith events. a Jewish immigrant and an Irish immigrant.” Beacon will reuse the building and add an Polite and David Motley who are “There are several places around the The two have been having community additional two stories, thereby limiting the finalizing financing, which, according country that we could use as models for conversations to garner wide neighborhood environmental impact of the development. to Koslow, includes funding from the ways to bring together many different things: support. The project is slated to be both Passive URA, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance the arts, different interfaith kinds of events, “Alyson and I come from a very strong House and Enterprise Communities Certified, Authority, low-income tax credits and several community building efforts, and some type Jewish place, but we want this to be a meaning that the apartments will be energy other sources. of social justice and education,” Mayo said. collaboration with a lot of different stories efficient in terms of heating and cooling and The developer’s plans do not incorporate Bonavoglia, who often noticed the empty being told here,” Mayo said. “We’re working have a reduced ecological footprint. the synagogue’s sanctuary/rotunda as part synagogue on her daily bike rides, thought with the Bloomfield Garfield Corporation The building will be at least net zero if not of the new apartments. For that part of the it was a perfect site. and starting dialogue with people who net positive in energy use, explained Koslow. building, Pittsburgh native Sara Stock Mayo “Sara and I got very excited about the have seen a lot of gentrification in their That means that on average it will produce the and transplant Alyson Bonavoglia — working possibility of taking this beautiful space and neighborhood and we don’t want this to be same or more energy from renewable energy with both Beacon and the Bloomfield really using it — although not as a synagogue another project that just serves part of the sources than it imports from external sources. Garfield Corporation — have other plans: a — and really take advantage of the structure community.” “We are striving to minimize the use space for the arts. of the building, which is meant to hold people “The goal,” Bonavoglia said, “is to develop of carbon-heavy materials, such as foam When Bonavoglia, the former artistic sitting, watching and also listening. It has something that’s a true community asset.” JN insulation, while at the same time providing director of the JCC of Greater Baltimore’s amazing acoustics.” affordable housing for families and Gordon Center for Performing Arts, The Bloomfield Garfield Corporation hired David Rullo is a staff writer for Pittsburgh Jewish individuals,” she said. relocated to Pittsburgh, she said, she began Bonavoglia and Mayo as consultants. They Chronicle, a Jewish News-affiliated publication.

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18 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM LIFESTYLES & CULTURE

FAITH Celebrating Judaism at home is a pandemic silver lining NICOLE RAZ | STAFF WRITER Meyerson’s hosting multiple weekly virtual York, they do this every week?” To programs. which he responded, “No, every he COVID-19-spurred lockdown was “In the last year, we have reached 10,000 day, three times a day.” He finds Tthe push Na’amah Segal Karas needed to people on Zoom,” she said, noting that virtual that people are pleased to discover become more observant. programming has also expanded her audience, all that can be done at home, up to “I started trying to keep Shabbat in 2018, since she is able to partner with other organi- and including making one’s own and we became more observant in 2019, but zations and connect with people across the Shabbat candles. that was a very hectic year,” she said. “When world. “A year ago, if you would have told me Those revelations are what COVID came, it was like Shabbat was the only I would have reached 10,000 people, I would he called “a hidden blessing of thing that broke up that monotony.” have laughed.” COVID.” Even amid all the suf- Stuck at home, many in the Jewish commu- Synagogues are different too. Instead of fering, there may be a “deeper nity began to engage with their faith differently serving as a gathering place, they turned to Jewish connection that people are in the past year. virtual programming and services to encourage gaining,” he said. “The pandemic has kind of empowered congregants to practice their Judaism at home. The pandemic has “radically Judaism to come back home,” said Robin Meri Thomason finds that engaging virtu- transformed” Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Na’amah Segal Karas welcomes Shabbat after lighting candles on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021. PHOTO BY BRADLEY KARAS Meyerson, co-director of Project Inspire ally with Rabbi Alicia Magal and the Jewish Yanklowitz’s family Shabbat Arizona and chair of the Shabbos Project Community of Sedona and the Verde Valley, experience, he said. virtual offerings are here to stay. Arizona. Once restrictions on gatherings took has meant becoming more intimately con- “We haven’t gone to synagogue once since Meyerson agreed and is curious about the effect, people approached her with questions nected to her Judaism. She even created a the pandemic broke,” he said. “We miss our future balance of virtual and in-person meet- about keeping a Jewish home. Others, with dedicated corner for that purpose in her home. communal prayer and our community gath- ings. “Some people can’t wait to get together more time on their hands, wanted to learn “For Zooming, the rabbi encourages us to erings, but we kind of double down on that back in person and other people do like the about their Jewish heritage. “It’s everyone have an area that is more sacred,” she said. during the week virtually and really embrace Zoom,” she said. “I think we’ll probably have — it’s families, it’s elderly people,” she said, Even with COVID’s hardships, Chabad of the reflective, regenerative and quieter family a hybrid.” “They’re feeling so reinvigorated in learning.” Prescott Rabbi Elie Filler believes the pandemic time on Shabbat.” Karas said keeping Shabbat is now a value The first four months of the pandemic, has brought the idea of celebrating at home Yanklowitz noted he used to host commu- and a habit — one she intends to build on Karas, her husband and her three children — back into focus. nity members for meals. “That part has totally post-pandemic. “Post-COVID — God willing ages 14, 8 and 1 — started learning Hebrew “Throughout history, what kept Judaism stopped, which is a huge loss,” he said. tomorrow — my vision is that we’re just going together on Aish.com, in addition to the alive is Judaism at home,” he said. At the same time, the rest of the week to be as observant as we can be,” she said. “I virtual weekly learning she was already doing Filler recounted that when he first moved he is able to enjoy the virtual classes have this firm belief that Shechina aligned all with Meyerson. Pre-pandemic, Project Inspire to Prescott from New York and held a service and prayers at Valley Beit Midrash, where of this in my life for me, so that I would just offered programming once a month. Now in his home, someone asked, “Wow! In New he is president and dean. He thinks end up in this direction, anyway,” she said. JN

Jewish News is accepting nominations from our readers for our annual Best of Jewish Phoenix magazine. This year, we’ll focus on the best healthcare the area has to offer, from doctors and nurses to pharmacies and hospitals. Is there a dentist or How about an extra physical therapist you caring surgeon or think deserves plaudits? psychologist? Nominations will be accepted for individuals and organizations, big hospitals and small health care facilities. Nominations close March 16 To submit a nomination, please send an email to [email protected], including the name of the nominee and no more than 300 words explaining why this person or entity should be honored. Nominations will be anonymous and confi dential, but we may use the description you send us in the magazine.

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 19 LIFESTYLES & CULTURE

FOOD Introducing fun flavors for unique Purim hamantaschen

JENNIFER STARRETT

very Purim growing up, my grandma, mom, sister and I would spend time together Ebaking loads of hamantaschen for everyone to enjoy. I can still picture all of us together PHOTOS BY JENNIFER STARRETT — laughing, enjoying each other’s company and baking for hours. LEMON HAMANTASCHEN Poppyseed and raspberry were usually in our mix of flavors. But these days, I love to experiment with new combinations. INGREDIENTS S’more and citrus-flavored hamantaschen are definitely a bit more unique than the ones 2 eggs at room temperature I made with my family, but experimenting is all part of the Purim fun. Why not go a little ½ cup butter or margarine (1 stick), softened bit crazy in the flavor department? ¾ cup sugar And if you are looking for a simpler base that can also be adapted easily to gluten-free, 1 teaspoon lemon extract you can find the ultimate hamantaschen recipe at jewphx.com. 1 tablespoon lemon zest Happy noshin’! ½ teaspoon kosher salt 2 teaspoons baking powder 2½ cups flour S’MORES HAMANTASCHEN Lemon curd

We’ve been on a major s’mores kick at my house, so I wanted to challenge myself Preheat oven to 350 F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. a little this year and was inspired to attempt to create s’mores hamantaschen. The Using a hand or stand mixer, cream eggs, butter, sugar and lemon extract. Once fully filling needs to be chocolate and marshmallow, but the crushed graham crackers really combined and smooth, gently mix in salt, baking powder and lemon zest. take these over the top. Enjoy shaping a perfect s’more into a fun triangle for Purim. Mix in our ½ cup at a time until combined thoroughly. Smooth the dough with your hands. If the dough is too sticky to roll out, add additional our a table- spoon at a time. INGREDIENTS When the dough is ready, roll it out on a oured surface about ¼-inch thick. Using a round drinking glass or a circle cookie cutter, cut the dough into circles. 2 eggs at room temperature Fill the center of the circle with about a teaspoon of lemon curd. Be careful not to ½ cup butter or margarine (1 stick) overll or the lling will boil out while baking. ¾ cup sugar Fold each into triangle shape by pinching the ends together making sure that each 1 teaspoon vanilla extract point is sealed. Place on the lined baking sheets and bake cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. ½ teaspoon kosher salt 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 cups flour ORANGE HAMANTASCHEN ½ cup crushed graham cracker (about 6 sheets) INGREDIENTS Chocolate pieces, chunks or chips 2 eggs at room temperature Miniature marshmallows ½ cup butter or margarine (1 stick), softened ¾ cup sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Preheat oven to 350 F and line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. 3 tablespoons orange juice Using a hand or stand mixer, cream eggs, butter, sugar and vanilla extract. Once fully 1 tablespoon orange zest combined and smooth, gently mix in salt, baking powder and our ½ cup at a time. Mix in ½ cup of crushed graham crackers thoroughly, then smooth the dough with your ½ teaspoon kosher salt hands. If the dough is too sticky to roll out, add additional our a tablespoon at a time. 2 teaspoons baking powder When the dough is ready, roll it out on a oured surface about ¼ inch thick. Using a round 2 ½ cups flour drinking glass or a circle cookie cutter, cut the dough into circles. Orange jam or marmalade Fill the center of the circle with a few pieces of chocolate topped with a few minia- ture marshmallows. Preheat oven to 350 F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. Fold each into the shape of a triangle by pinching the ends together. Make sure each point Using a hand or stand mixer, cream together eggs, butter, sugar, vanilla extract is sealed. and orange juice. Place on the lined baking sheets and bake cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. Once fully combined and smooth, gently mix in salt, baking powder and orange zest. Mix in our ½ cup at a time until combined thoroughly. Smooth the dough with your hands. If the dough is too sticky to roll out, add additional our a tablespoon at a time. When the dough is ready, roll it out on a oured surface about ¼-inch thick. Using a round CITRUS HAMANTASCHEN drinking glass or a circle cookie cutter, cut the dough into circles. Fill the center of the circle with about a teaspoon of jam or marmalade. Be careful not to Arizona winters are known for their sunshine and citrus, and even though it’s been a overll or the lling will boil out while baking. relatively dry year, our trees have produced lots of delicious citrus to enjoy. I thought Fold each into triangle shape by pinching the ends together making sure that each I’d take some inspiration from the fresh fruit and add them into our hamantaschen point is sealed. Place on the lined baking sheets and bake cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. JN this year by creating some lemon- and orange-flavored hamantaschen. These cookies are so bright and flavorful, that you may want to make an extra batch. I promise Jennifer Starrett is an events and marketing consultant. Visit jewphx.com, for more of her recipes they’ll go quickly! and blogs.

20 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM CALENDAR Featured Event SUNDAY FEB. 21 Martin Pear JCC’s Drive-through Purim Parade: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The Martin Pear JCC is holding the Allan J. Flader Community-Wide Purim Celebration. Entertainment will include BMX bike stunts, clowns, stilt walkers, aerialists and more. Attendees are asked to decorate their car and ride through in costume. The parade judges will pick winners for Best Decorated Car and Most Enthusiastic Car. Cost: Free, but registration is required at mpjcc.org/purim2021. The J will be collecting donations for the Jewish Family & Children’s Service’s Just 3 Things food pantry.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARTIN PEAR JCC

Events Cost: $18. For more information, visit mysticism. Cost: $60. For more information, FRIDAYS, JAN. 29-FEB. 26 SUNDAY, FEB. 14-MARCH 3 valleybeitmidrash.org. visit bjephoenix.org. Racism in America: The Democracy We Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival: Created & the Struggle to Fulfill the Vision: See 30+ films from the comfort of your SUNDAY, FEB. 28 TUESDAYS, JAN. 12-MAY 25 10-11:30 a.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education home. Viewers will have 72 hours from the Judaism and Climate Change: 10 a.m.-5:30 Introduction to Judaism: course taught by Jay Roth. This class will explore the roots of racism and white scheduled start time to begin watching p.m. This day-long conference presented 7-9 p.m. Learn the basics of Judaism with Rabbi Stein Kokin. For more information supremacy beginning with the European a movie, and 48 hours after they start by the Judaism, Science and Medicine or to register, visit bethelphoenix.com/ era of colonialism and how those concepts watching to finish it. Cost: $12 per film. Group will feature 13 presentations by noted academics and rabbis on the topic. adult-education. continue to endure to today. Cost: $90. See the film schedule and purchase For more information or to register, visit tickets at gpjff.org. Cost: Free. Fore more information, visit jewishstudies.asu.edu/science. WEDNESDAYS bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses. Virtual Meetings, Happiness Hour: 11:30 a.m. An online class 2 p.m. A Bureau of Lectures & Classes Bridge to the Balkans: taught by Rabbi Pinchas Allouche that SATURDAYS Jewish Education program presented by delves into texts and references culled Saturday Mindfulness Gatherings: 9:30 a.m. Hosted by Hospice of the Valley. Join via SUNDAY, FEB. 21 Robyn Helzner, who will share captivating from our traditions to address a relevant Zoom. For more information and event link, Limmud AZ: 9:45 a.m.-2 p.m. This year stories of Sephardic Jews expelled from topic and draw uplifting life lessons from visit vosjcc.org/j-at-home-adults. Limmud AZ is a full-day virtual program. Spain and Portugal in the 15th century who it. For more information or to join, visit The day will be divided into individual found safe haven in the cities of Dubrovnik, cbtvirtualworld.com. Split and Sarajevo. Cost: 18. For more SUNDAYS sessions with a wide variety of subjects. The Thirteen Petalled Rose: 1 p.m. 7:15 a.m. An online class information, visit bjephoenix.org/programs/ Soul Study: Cost: $25 before Feb. 21 and $36 for same An online Kabbalah class that studies exploring the secrets of the Tanya and passages. day registration. Visit limmudaz.org for “The Thirteen Petalled Rose” by Rabbi Adin Jewish mysticism, taught by Rabbi Pinchas more information. A Jewish Night on Broadway - Live: Even-Israel Steinsaltz, focusing on the many Allouche. foundational and transformational concepts From Ethiopia to Eretz Israel: 1 p.m. A 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a sneak peek behind the Anxiety in the Modern World: 6 p.m. Learn Bureau of Jewish Education program scenes of Broadway and Jewish Night on of Kaballah and Jewish Mysticism and the secrets of the Torah for living stress-free presented by Naftali Aklum. Naftali was Broadway as well as a live performance applying them to everyday life. in the current environment in a virtual class among the first group of Ethiopian Jews of showtunes by Cantor Angress and For more information or to join, with Rabbi Boruch, with Chabad of Oro to make aliyah via Sudan. He works as an accompanist Dani Shraibman. To visit cbtvirtualworld.com. Valley. For more information, visit advocate for Ethiopian-Israelis, striving to purchase tickets and sponsorships, visit chabadaz.com. WEDNESDAYS, FEB. 3-MARCH 10 raise awareness about Jewish-Ethiopian bethelphoenix.com/JNOB-Live or Journey of the Soul: 7 p.m. Join Rabbi history and to strengthen Ethiopian-Israeli call 602-944-3359. Shabbat Mendel of the Jewish Learning Center for identity. Cost: $18. For more information, a new six-session course by the acclaimed FRIDAYS visit bjephoenix.org/programs/passages. MONDAY, MARCH 1 Rohr Jewish Learning Institute that will Shabbat at Beth El: 11-11:45 a.m. Celebrate Educators Conference on the Holocaust: Shabbat with songs, blessings and Anti-Semitism in the U.S.: 4 p.m. A virtual answer a question which has occurred to 5-7:30 p.m. Join the Bureau of Jewish inspirational teachings. Rabbi Stein Kokin lecture with Jeffrey Gurock from Yeshiva every self-reflective person: What happens Education for the upcoming 29th annual from Beth El Congregation will lead on University, hosted by the Center for Jewish when we die? For more information or to Educators Conference on the Holocaust. It the first Friday of every month. Special Studies at Arizona State University. Examine register, contact Rabbi Mendel Vaisfiche at is open to teachers and the community at guests will be welcoming Shabbat during [email protected]. how the world of organized sports has large. Cost: Free. Visit bjephoenix.org for the remainder of the month. For more treated Jews, and what it says about the more information. information or to join, visit WEDNESDAYS, FEB. 3-APRIL 7 uncommon tolerance of American Jews in bethelphoenix.com. The Lights of Rav Kook: 11 a.m. Learn general. Cost: Free. For more information, MONDAYS, JAN. 25-MARCH 1 the foundational roots of Rabbi Avraham Welcome Shabbat: 11-11:45 a.m. Join the visit jewishstudies.asu.edu/eckstein The Writings and Wisdom of Rabbi Lord Yitzchak HaCohen Kook’s teachings and JFCS Virtual Center for Senior Enrichment Jonathan Sacks Z’L: 12:15-1:30 p.m. the soaring winds of his vision. Cost: $18. each Friday for a soothing and inspiring MONDAY, FEB. 22 A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught For more information visit program to welcome Shabbat. Each week Voices Across the Generations: by Andre Ivory. Rabbi Sacks, who died valleybeitmidrash.org. a different guest host will lead the program 10:30-11:30 a.m. A Bureau of Jewish recently, possessed a world of wisdom that Education class taught by Adena Bernstein with song and celebration. Cost: Free. For crossed denominational lines. THURSDAYS, JAN. 14-MARCH 25 more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. Astrovsky, author of “Living Among the Cost: $98. For more information visit Dead: My Grandmother’s Holocaust Survival Israel and the Middle East Through the bjephoenix.org. Lens of Ever-Changing Events in the US, EVERY THIRD FRIDAY, JAN. 15-DEC. 31 Story of Love and Strength.” Cost: Free. For Third Friday Shabbat: 7-8 p.m. The Desert more information, visit bjephoenix.org. Israel and the Middle East: TUESDAYS, THROUGH APRIL 8 12:30 p.m.-2 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Foothills Jewish Community Association The Mediterranean Functional Lifestyle: 39 Ways to Repair the World: In celebration Phoenix course taught by Meir Jolovitz. hosts a virtual abbreviated Shabbat service 1-3 p.m. Join nationally recognized of Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz's 39th An examination of the implications of the followed by a program. Contact Andrea at Scottsdale chef Nikos Ligidakis as he birthday, he is teaching the 39 melachot election and current events. Cost: $130. 480-664-8847 for more information. shares the ideas behind his cookbook and over the year (one per week for 39 weeks). For more information or to register, visit Seniors the healthy lifestyle it promotes. Cost: $10 Each session will be between 15-20 minutes bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses. for members, $15 for guests. For more long on Tuesdays. Cost: Suggested $18 WEDNESDAY, FEB. 24 information, visit jewishphoenix.regfox.com. donation. For more information, visit FRIDAYS, JAN. 8-FEB. 26 Remember, Recreate, Heal: 1:30-3 p.m. valleybeitmidrash.org. Shema Circle: Congregation Beth JFCS virtual Center for Senior Enrichment TUESDAY, FEB. 23 Israel invites members experiencing life presents a series of writing workshops Emergent Judaism: 1-2 p.m. A virtual event TUESDAYS, FEB. 16-MARCH 9 transitions, losses, and difficult moments designed to explore narrative, reflective and presented by Rabbi Dr. Natan Margalit, Beginner’s Guide to Kabbalah: 10-11 a.m. to share wisdom, stories, connection, and poetic writing techniques that encourage hosted by Valley Beit Midrash. Judaism A Bureau of Jewish Education course healing over Zoom. Space is limited. Visit the uncovering of memories and creation of is a strong tradition that has survived for taught by Rabbi Laibel Blotner. Explore the https://cbiaz.org/shema-circle/ for more thousands of years. How do we do that? inspiring and meaningful guide to Jewish information. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 22

JEWISHAZ.COM JEWISH NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2021 21 CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

stories to share. For more information, visit entering second adulthood. Explore the jfcsaz.org. tools and resources to age wisely through the lens of Jewish wisdom. Learn positive MONDAYS REACH HIGHLY EDUCATED, AFFLUENT READERS IN THE VALLEY Dance Fusion with Michele Dionisio: ways to navigate a meaningful transition to 11 a.m.-noon. Presented by JFCS Center for the next chapter on life’s journey. Cost: $130. Senior Enrichment. Cost: Free. For more For more information or to register, visit Target over Jewish readers information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. 42,500 bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses. with a mix of print and digital. WEDNESDAYS Chair Yoga with Zoe: 11-11:45 a.m. A guided FRIDAYS Print | Digital | class in yoga without having to get down Adult Chair Ballet Class: on the floor. Presented by JFCS Center for Noon-12:45 p.m. Join Jennifer Cafarella and Senior Enrichment. Cost: Free. For more Elaine Seretis from Ballet Theatre of Phoenix information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. Upcoming Special Sections as they teach a ballet class that will help FRIDAYS, JAN. 15-MARCH 5 improve strength, flexibility, movement and Wise Aging: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. A Bureau balance. No prior dance experience required. of Jewish Education course taught by Presented by the JFCS Virtual Center for Nan Pollinger. Wise Aging is designed specifically to meet the social, emotional Senior Enrichment. Cost: Free. For more Passover and spiritual needs of Jewish seekers information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. JN March 5, 12, 19, 26 COMMUNITY Show your support of Car seat guru to the rescue the Jewish community by wishing them a Happy Passover!

Senior Lifestyle March 5

From home health aides to fi nancial planners, independent living faciliti es to nursing homes, this is the perfect venue to showcase how your business can help older Jewish residents navigate these challenging ti mes. The Car Seat Guy, Mitch Cohen, right, takes a break to pose for a photo at an outdoor gathering of Bureau of Jewish Education’s Jewish Baby University. PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDA FELDMAN

Expectant couples smile behind masks Camp & School Guide March 12 Showcase your camp and educati onal off erings to families looking for the perfect fit for their children.

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Contact your sales consultant to schedule your advertising at [email protected] Participants of BJE’s Jewish Baby University gather together briefly in person for a photo. They meet weekly on Zoom. PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDA FELDMAN

22 FEBRUARY 19, 2021 JEWISH NEWS JEWISHAZ.COM MILESTONES Diane Wise Sandler, beloved wife, mother, OBITUARY grandmother and sister, died from Lewy Body Dementia on Jan. 11, 2021, in Phoenix. Diane MICHAEL WAYNE RUBINOFF was born on Jan. 6, 1942, to Abraham and Michael Wayne Rubinoff, 70, died Feb. 3, 2021. He was born in Chicago and Rose Wise in Cleveland, Ohio. She is survived lived in Phoenix. by her husband, Steve; daughters, Andrea He is survived by his brother, Harry J. Rubinoff; his sister-in-law, Judith Engelman; his cousin, Mansha Hale Donohue; and his nephew, Marc Brian Rubinoff. Svetly (Andrew), Jennifer Sandler and Renee Services were held at Beth El Cemetery. Shamblin (John); her grandchildren, Joseph, Arrangements by Sinai Mortuary. JN Conner and Grady Svetly, Blake and Landry Shamblin; sister, Edie Stoneman; and her cherished dog, Lucy. After graduating from North High School, she met and married Stephen Sandler in 1962, beginning a love affair and partnership JEWISHAZ.COM that lasted over 58 years. Diane was devoted to her daughters and family. She was their strongest advocate in all their pursuits. She attended every football game, cheer competition or swim meet with a video camera on her shoulder to record all events for Ruth (Ruthie) Goldberg, age 92, of Scottsdale, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021. Ruth was born in Detroit, Michigan, on July posterity. 22,1928, to Sam and Eda Lefkowitz. She graduated from Central High. Diane also excelled in the workplace. She was a personnel Ruth married Donald Goldberg at Temple Israel in Detroit in 1974. Ruth consultant specializing in the legal field until she decided to was a true “bulabusta,” wife, mother and most of all an AMAZING Bubby. take on the office management of the family business, Financial She was very social, a phenomenal fundraiser, and was an active member of B’nai Management Services. After “retirement” she put her love of travel B’rith having been a former president of the Louis Stone Chapter. Ruth was involved to use and formed “The Savvy Traveler” where she took great in many organizations in Detroit and Phoenix and had a passion for life, friends, family, activities and learning. joy in planning vacations for friends and family. She passed on to her family the importance of “giving back” as an active supporter Ruth is survived by her husband of 46 years, Donald Goldberg; sister-in-law, Marilyn; of many charitable organizations, especially those devoted to nieces, Beverly and Marla; daughter Linda Weisberg Lober; son, David Alan; and grandchildren, Erynn, Jason and Erika. Ruth will be deeply missed by friends, family children and animals. and BEST FRIEND, granddaughter Erynn. Diane was an avid sports fan, and over the past 40 years as a It would be an honor if memories and expressions of sympathy were shared at season ticketholder to ASU sports and the AZ Cardinals, she greenacresmortuary.net for the Goldberg family. faithfully cheered on her teams (or read books while sitting in the stands) with Steve. She also was an event planner extraordinaire — not only planning family celebrations but designing and creating the décor as well. Diane loved adventure. She and her husband TWO PLOTS took over 35 cruises, and together they rode camels in the Middle East, went on safari in Africa, walked on glaciers in Alaska, toured FOR SALE the Great Wall in China, snorkeled in the Seychelles, and voyaged up the Amazon River. But her greatest pleasure was her family. She loved hosting gatherings in her home and spending time with her PHOENIX grandchildren. Diane was a force of nature — her vibrant spirit, wit and love will MEMORIAL be greatly missed. She and Steve planned to live out their lives together — she is gone way too soon. SHARE YOUR In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in her honor be ENGAGEMENT, Shalom I made to Desert Voices Oral Learning Center (desert-voices.org). Her two oldest grandchildren were students there and it held a WEDDING, BIRTH, Section special place in her heart. BAR/BAT-MITZVAH Lot 12A, ANNOUNCEMENT Spaces 1 & 2 Rose Jalowiec, 87, of Phoenix passed away on Feb. 3, AND ANY OTHER 2021. She was a Holocaust survivor born in Poland and SIMCHA ON BOTH Includes Liners was a member of Congregation Or Tzion and the Phoenix JEWISHAZ.COM & Installation Holocaust Association. Rose, the wife of Sam Jalowiec (z’’l), will be remembered AND THE $ by her son, Phillip (Cheryl) Jalowiec; grandchildren, WEEKLY 10,000 Joshua (Meghan) Jalowiec, Jeremy (Cheyenne) Jalowiec JEWISH NEWS ... and Jennifer (Justin) Carrocci; and great-grandchildren, for both Brooks and Theo. FOR FREE. Contact Je rey Myers Services were held on Feb. 4 at Beth El Cemetery. JEWISHAZ.COM je [email protected] Contributions in her memory may be made to the Phoenix 843-327-3624 Holocaust Association or Congregation Or Tzion.

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