Jewish Community News www.jfedps.org The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert Kislev/Tevet 5781 - December 2020

Facing Realities and Taking Action COVID-19 pandemic has shaken for individuals and families facing for you every step of the way. Jewish life is best lived together, our community and our world. financial strain from illness to the We have officially launchedand that is still true while we practice How we respond to it may be the resources they need to survive this our 2021 Campaign. For over 50 social distancing to slow the spread defining moment of this generation. crisis. years we have been the central of COVID-19. As leaders of the Jewish community, JFS and its team of social workers fundraising organization for our The stakes are high. The challenges we are determined to ensure that provide our community members Jewish community. And, as you can are great. At times like this we need our families and institutions are able with access to case management and imagine, the needs today are greater you. Our community needs all of us. to persevere. Just as we have in the mental health services. than ever. We are in this together. We need your past, we lead with the mindset that As much as we each desire, we From the beginning of this partnership. We need your support. “people come first.” cannot change the current state of pandemic, our Jewish Federation… Now, especially now, we need your Through our deep and long- the world — we can only control how your Jewish Federation…has led this generosity. Please say “yes” and make standing partnership, Jewish we react. Our community has proven Jewish community. We are making your gift today. Federation and Jewish Family its ability to overcome obstacles, and sure our most vulnerable are taken Service ( JFS), are working together we know we are stronger together. care of and our treasured Jewish to provide for hunger relief and Your Federation and JFS will be here institutions will get through this. Israeli MKs Propose Giving Diaspora Jews a Formal Role in Israeli Affairs By Larry Luxner, JTA How much of a say, if any, should Israeli government to consult world communities in North America. “How much say should world Jewry Diaspora Jews have in Israeli Jewish leaders on issues it deems The federations collectively send have in internal Israeli affairs?” affairs? crucial to the 8 million or so Jews hundreds of millions of dollars each “I believe Israelis, and the Israeli This perennial question, debated who live outside of Israel. Knesset year to Israel in the form of grants to government, should want to hear often in op-eds and speeches as member Tehila Friedman of the nonprofit organizations that work from us, to learn and understand well as at Jewish conferences, always Blue and White party sponsored on behalf of Israelis from across our perspectives,” said Eric has been somewhat ephemeral. the measure. the sectors of society, including Fingerhut, a former member of But proposed Knesset legislation “This would potentially be one of the federations’ two main overseas Congress from Ohio who now that would give Diaspora Jewish the most significant events in Israeli- partners: the Jewish Agency for heads the Jewish Federations leaders a formal role in Israeli affairs Diaspora relations in decades,” said Israel and the American Jewish network. “We don’t want to try and may herald a new era in Israel- David Butler, chair of the Israel and Joint Distribution Committee. In tell the Israeli government what to Diaspora relations. Overseas Committee of the Jewish late October, Jewish Federations do, but we do want them to hear The bill, which has been Federations of North America, the hosted a panel discussion during our input on matters that impact endorsed by Israel’s Diaspora umbrella group for 146 Jewish its annual General Assembly, held our community.” Affairs Ministry, would require the federations and 300 independent online this year, on the subject of OF THE DESERT

2019-2020 JEWISH FEDERATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Roberta Nyman, Board Chair Phil Glass, Treasurer & Allocations Chair Stephanie Ross, Secretary Celia Norian, Past Co-Chair Bruce Landgarten, Chief Executive Officer

Jackie Cohen Ron Langus Lori Fritz Bernard Reiter Arnie Gillman Gary Schahet Bobbi Holland

Table of Contents Vol. 47 • No. 5 Community Calendar 16, 17 Federation 1, 3, 24 Lecture Series 5 Legacy 3 Women's Philanthropy 2, 6, 8, 13, 18 Have A Nosh 22 Jewish Family Service 11 PJ Library 19 School Listing 10 Simchas & Classifieds 23 Temples Listing 16 Tributes 15

2 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com Chanukah: Rededicating to Traditions and Values era of almost blinding technological as we ensure the Jewish future for advances, those organizations that generations to come. We cannot turn Bruce are not prepared to shift, adjust and away — and I hope you won’t either. Landgarten change, may not be around much Israel & Overseas Grant longer. With this in mind, we are Thank you. Recipients Jewish Federation Jewish Federation provides grants Chief Executive dedicated to our mission statement, Officer to strengthen and engage a vibrant to the following organizations Jewish community while providing for to support Jewish identity and Jews in need. Supporting our mission peoplehood: This month we will celebrate are pillars of impact: enriching senior Chanukah. We will light our lives, providing for Jews in need and Israel Guide Dog Center for menorahs, placing them in our building community. the Blind: Supporting its mission windows for all to see. When you Every day through our work, we to improve the quality of life of stand before your lit menorah, I hope are making the invisible, visible. They visually impaired Israelis you see the faces of those whose live among us, but we don’t always lives we touch. Each day, we have see them. They are families that Jewish Agency For Israel: the opportunity to do something continue to struggle financially. They Supporting Jewish camps in that potentially could be miraculous are frail elderly and homebound the Former Soviet Union, and for someone else. There are those Holocaust survivors. We stand ready caring for the vulnerable, youth moments when we are in the right to help those who need us because in Israel through mental health, place at the right time and there that is an essential Federation value job training, Jewish learning and are other times when we are there and commitment. We make miracles coordinating military service because it is the right thing to do. for families wanting to connect with Both can be life altering moments. their Jewish roots, for young couples Joint Distribution Committee: The Chanukah story is about the searching for relevant and personal A leading Jewish humanitarian miracle that happened long ago ways to connect to our community. organization, working in 70 when a small cruse of oil burned for Our Federation sees them — and we countries to life lives and eight days. Though the history of are committed to making their lives strengthen communities the holiday and the miracle of the better and more “Jewish.” oil lasting eight days is interesting, This is a time of great uncertainty. Ramat HaNegev Regional what I find most important about In the past, the Jewish community Council: The Federation of the this holiday is its message of has always been able to count on Desert’s partner in the Negev, rededication. When the Maccabees the strength of our communal Israel, supporting the Center for entered the recaptured temple, it institutions. There has never been a Children with Special Needs and had to be rededicated in order for greater time of urgency to support Children and Youth programming G-d to return. Each year, Chanukah our Federation and the work we do. reminds me, and hopefully, you as As you reflect on your year-end ZAKA: An Israel’s rescue and well, to rededicate ourselves to our giving, whether you have made a recovery volunteer organization, traditions and values as Jews. Federation gift or not, please be supporting High-impact It is this same rededication that as generous as you can. Your gift Psychological Support for victims we take very seriously at Federation. makes it possible for us to do what of terrorism, war and natural Nothing stays the same and in this is needed during this difficult time disasters

JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 3 OpEd- 2020 Election Could Transform the Future for JEWISH Evangelical Americans COMMUNITY By Ryan Streeter, American Enterprise Institute With the election in a contentious evangelicals agreed that economic and conservatives influence the culture NEWS campaign season, the coronavirus policy changes benefit some people equally, but only 39 percent of white A Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert pandemic, and after a summer of at the expense of others, compared evangelicals agree. VOL. 47, No. 5 racial unrest, 54 percent of Americans to just 39 percent of Black Protestants One thing that attenuates EDITORIAL believe that the nation’s best days are and 49 percent of Hispanic Catholics. evangelical gloom somewhat is one’s Bruce Landgarten, yet to come, as Presidents Reagan and Evangelical gloom is in part a level of religiosity. For instance, white Chief Executive Officer Obama both famously said years ago. reaction to the sense of unsteadiness evangelicals who attend church Miriam H. Bent, Editor Bailey Communications, Behind these numbers lies a that social change creates. A infrequently are twice as likely as the Layout & Design peculiarity. While religious Americans plurality of white evangelicals and more devout to think the American are more optimistic about the future Black Protestants believe that their Dream is out of reach. But overall, JCN STATEMENT of the country than the average denominations should preserve their despite their generally locked The Jewish Community News seeks person, Trump’s most loyal base of traditional beliefs and practices rather vote for Trump, white evangelicals to provide news and feature material support, white evangelicals, are the than adjust to new circumstances or paradoxically show less confidence of special interest to its readership, only religious group in America to adopt modern practices altogether. than others in keeping “America great.” and to create a heightened sense of Jewish believe (by a majority) that America’s They are the only religious groups to As anyone like myself who grew identity through the dissemination of best days are behind us, according to do so. up within evangelicalism understands, information about people, events and issues at home and abroad. The JCN seeks to serve a recent American Enterprise Institute However, the gap is much wider evangelicals have long viewed the as a forum for the exchange of ideas and survey of more than 4,000 adults. among white evangelicals: 73 percent future with a kind of wariness due opinions in the Jewish community. Sixty-six percent of Hispanic favor preserving traditional beliefs to a mix of eschatological (or end of Catholics and 58 percent of Black over the 22 percent who favor times) theology and an awareness The JCN is published monthly, ten months a Protestants believe America’s best making adjustments. Among Black of cultural forces opposed to them. year by the Jewish Federation of the Desert, days are ahead, yet only 46 percent Protestants, the split is 48 percent to That could certainly be at play here. 69-710 Highway 111, of white evangelicals think the same. 37 percent, and for all other religious But more evident in the survey data Rancho Mirage, CA 92270, The pessimism is starker among white groups, a plurality favors making is a sense of darkness consistent with 760-324-4737, fax 760-324-3154. evangelical women than men, and 28 adjustments. White evangelicals are fires that Trump himself has stoked. ARTICLES & ADVERTISING, percent of white evangelical women the only religious group in which less White evangelicals are much more Miriam H. Bent, Editor think the American dream is out of than half believe America is successful likely than other religious groups to 760-323-0255 reach. By way of contrast, it is worth because of its ability to change rather think immigration is bad for their e-mail: [email protected] noting that 80 percent of religious Gen than because of its reliance on long- local economy, discrimination against Zers consider America’s best days to standing traditions. An average of 62 whites is a problem, and Confederate ADVERTISING be ahead, compared to 60 percent of percent in all other groups say the monuments are symbols of southern The JCN does not endorse the goods or their nonreligious peers. same. pride. Swayed by Trump’s rhetoric, services advertised in its pages and makes President Trump’s rhetorical Perhaps unsurprisingly, then, white evangelicals have now become no representation as to the kashrut of food pugilism may galvanize the support evangelicals are more likely than stark outliers to other religious products and services in such advertising. of people who want a fighter on their other groups to think liberals exert Americans on some of America’s most The publisher shall not be liable for damages if, for any reason whatsoever, it side, but it has apparently done little to more influence on American culture divisive issues. fails to publish an advertisement or for foster optimism. In a 2019 AEI survey than conservatives. Forty-six percent If Trump loses on election day, any error in an advertisement. Acceptance of 3663 adults, only about a third (34 of white evangelicals hold this view many white evangelicals will continue of advertisers and of advertising copy is percent) of white evangelicals think compared to 24 percent of white to view the world through a lens he subject to the publisher’s approval. people who grew up middle class mainline. Protestants and 35 percent has shaped for them, but it would also The JCN is not responsible if ads violate are likely to move up the economic of white Catholics. Only 16 percent create an opening for new evangelical applicable laws and the advertiser will ladder, compared to 58 percent of of Black Protestants and 19 percent of leadership to step up and offer a vision indemnify, hold harmless and defend the JCN Hispanic Catholics and 43 percent of Hispanic Catholics think liberals exert of the future that is more consistent from all claims made by government agencies Black Protestants. In a June 2020 survey more influence. The majority of most with the positive social engagement and consumers for any reason based on ads carried in the JCN. of 3504 adults, 61 percent of white religious Americans believe liberals that has also characterized its past. 4 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com that reality is dangerous. We have an Joe Biden and Israel obligation to push them as hard as we Joe Biden is a true friend of the can toward what they know in their gut Jewish state, friends and even political is the only ultimate solution — a two- adversaries of the emerging president- state solution.” elect agree. Biden’s opposition to the “He has a deep feeling for Israel,” said settlements has led him to oppose Michael Oren, who served as Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ambassador to the US when Biden intended unilateral annexation of was vice president. Oren opposed parts of the West Bank. The plan has almost all the Middle East policies since been suspended to allow for championed by Biden and his boss, the normalization agreement with the Barack Obama, especially on Iran and United Arab Emirates, but Biden made the Israeli-Palestinian question. Still, plain that he would not allow it to he annually attended Biden’s Rosh happen under his watch. Hashanah party, and asserts that Joe According to his campaign website, BIden is genuinely concerned about Biden with PM Netanyahu Biden “will urge Israel’s government Israel’s well-being. meeting with Meir in the summer of candidates who said that they would and the Palestinian Authority to “Biden is from a generation that 1973, during his first overseas trip as not use American aid to Israel as take steps to keep the prospect of a remembers 1967 and 1973,” Oren a young senator: The Israeli premier a means of pressuring Israel for negotiated two-state outcome alive said, referring to the Six Day War and showed him maps and told him about concessions. (Another one was his and avoid actions, such as unilateral the Yom Kippur War, respectively. “He the militarily precarious situation her eventual running mate, California annexation of territory and settlement has Israel in his heart. He actually gets country found itself in. Biden looked Senator Kamala Harris). activity, or support for incitement and it. He gets Israel.” depressed, but Meir cheered him up, Biden’s warm feelings and staunch violence, that undercut prospects for A native of Scranton, Pennsylvania, telling him that Israelis have a secret support for the Jewish state has not peace between the parties.” Biden was raised by Catholic parents weapon against the Arabs: They have meant he was not at times bitterly At the same time, he has vowed to who were staunchly supportive of nowhere else to go. critical of some of its policies, especially push the PA toward ending its policy Israel and imbued in him a great During his decades in politics Biden on the Palestinian question. of paying stipends to individuals respect for the Jewish state. — who has Jewish grandchildren, as In a 2016 address he stated, “I imprisoned for acts of terrorism. He “You were blessed with one of the two of his three children married Jews firmly believe that the actions that also promised to “urge Arab states greatest generations of founding — met countless world leaders. But he Israel’s government has taken over the to move beyond quiet talks and take fathers and mothers of any nation in still describes his interaction with Golda past several years — the steady and bolder steps toward normalization the history of the world — David Ben- Meir as “one of the most consequential systematic expansion of settlements, with Israel.” Gurion, Golda Meir, Menachem Begin, meetings I’ve ever had in my life.” the legalization of outposts, land While he was not in favor of moving Ariel Sharon, Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon seizures — are moving Israel in the the US Embassy to Jerusalem, he said Peres. They all fashioned Israel into No apologies for supporting Israel wrong direction. They are moving he would not relocate it back to Tel a vibrant democracy,” Biden said in Biden has been one of Washington’s us toward a one-state reality, and Aviv. 1915. “And in the process, you built most outspoken advocates for US one of the most innovative societies aid to Israel. “It’s about time we stop on Earth. In the process, you defended apologizing for our support for Israel. your homeland and became the most There’s no apology to be made, none,” powerful military in the entire region. he said in the Senate in June 1986. “It is And all these years later, things have the best $3 billion investment we make. changed, but the danger still exists,” he If there weren’t an Israel, the United added. “And just to be an Israeli — it States of America would have to invent still demands uncommon courage.” an Israel to protect her interests in the Biden has known every Israeli prime region.” minister since Golda Meir. He has During the 2020 campaign, Biden retold many times the story of his was one of the few Democratic

JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 5 Jewish Federation Women's Philanthropy Introducing Dr. Sherri Wise If Dr. Sherri Wise out of a terrible experience. is right, everything She now speaks about the power happens for of choosing forgiveness over anger, a reason, and blame or hatred. It is her fervent we are all born belief that the terrorists who were lucky—if we can involved in the suicide bombing find a way to turn were not born with hatred in their what happens to hearts. They were victims of hatred, us into something good. She did. just as she was. This belief has Twenty-one years ago, a simple empowered her to move forward choice to have lunch at a restaurant after the tragedy, rather than in Jerusalem changed her life when allowing it to define her life. she became the victim of a triple Instead, Wise is defined by suicide bombing in Jerusalem. One gratitude—so many people helped of the explosions occurred only in her recovery, and she now has steps away from where she was the opportunity to give back. Her sitting. Wise had just switched seats belief that she was spared for a with a friend. That small decision reason fuels a desire to share her may have saved her life. story with others who might be Over 25 people were murdered struggling with difficult things that that day, and 196 wounded— happened in their past. including Wise. It took six months of medical care, and many more months of healing after that, before she could resume her life and return to her career in dentistry. Some of the physical and emotional damage has been permanent. And of course, the haunting question remains: why did she survive while so many others did not? Wise has spent the past twenty-one years answering that very question. When the Canadian Coalition Against Terror contacted her to help pass the Justice for Victims of Terrorism Act, she embraced the project. Seven years later, the bill became law. Wise went on to win the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal of Honor for her achievement, an emotional moment for her as it symbolized how a positive contribution could come

6 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com Why the UAE is Looking to Israel to Secure its Food Supplies Myriad deals between the two countries run the gamut from health tech to diamonds, though food tech and agritech are also top priorities. By Abigail Klein Leichman, Israel21c Food security is emerging as “One topic that came up again and I heard Israel has the best startup technologies, he is also looking at a key area in which the United again is food security,” Cukierman ecosystem and agri-tech is a big part health tech, ed tech, cyber security Arab Emirates is eager for Israeli tells ISRAEL21c. “They are ready to of that,” says Al Nowais. and machine learning. expertise, investors in each country allocate a lot of funds to assuring Cukierman learned that it’s not Al Nowais chairs the events tell ISRAEL21c. their food supply.” only human food security at stake. committee of the new nonprofit, The Gulf states import more than Established Israeli companies in The UAE’s multimillion-dollar camel government-supported Emirates 90 percent of their food. This has fields such as precision agriculture racing industry requires a million Angels Investors Association, which long been a concern, but the issue and irrigation, seed treatment, tons of ultra-premium feed annually. signed a partnership deal with Tel intensified when pandemic-related desalination and solar energy can “They are looking for technology Aviv Capital investment bank and transportation stoppages disrupted step swiftly into the welcoming UAE to help with that, and the head co-hosted an online investor summit supply for several months. The UAE landscape and perhaps even partner of our life-sciences division, Dr. on September 22 with Jerusalem- now has a food security minister and with UAE ag-tech startups. Laurent Choppe, happens to be a based OurCrowd. Food Security Council. “We have identified 200veterinarian,” relates Cukierman. “We’re excited about this historic The Abraham Accords announced companies that we think fit the moment for the region, and to between Israel and the UAE on food-security sector and we’ll Power in Collaboration expand a community of peaceful August 13—and with Bahrain a choose about 20 that have a major Ahmed Nasser Al Nowais coexistence and, most importantly, month later—give these countries opportunity to deploy in the UAE,” tells ISRAEL21c that the Emiratis are build a powerful engine of access to promising food-supply says Cukierman. “maybe even more excited than economic and cultural exchange,” solutions from the ground up. He plans to introduce them at you guys” about the normalization Emirates Angels Chairman Masaood “The Gulf states see how we the first UAE version of his firm’s agreement with Israel. Al Masaood told the multinational produce vegetables in the desert and GoforIsrael investment conferences, “You have more excellent ideas audience of about 1,000. are very impressed. This is essential to which normally happen in Tel Aviv, than I ever saw from one country,” he About 2,000 people registered them and they seek companies that China and European countries such says. for a follow-up event, “UAE Tech can deploy technologies tomorrow,” as Switzerland. Coming from an investment Investment Landscape: Introduction says Edouard Cukierman, chairman Abu Dhabi-based investor family office, Al Nowais has been for the Israeli Ecosystem,” broadcast of Cukierman Investment House and Ahmed Nasser Al Nowais confirms an entrepreneur since age 16 and from Abu Dhabi on October 13. managing partner at Catalyst Fund. that producing food locally is a founded Annex Investments in Emirati investors and He and senior partners of his Tel top priority. His country hopes to 2017. His broad interests encompass entrepreneurs talked about Aviv-based firm recently met with incorporate Israeli methods to do sectors from automotive to fitness, opportunities for collaboration in Hamed Ahmed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq so economically and sustainably in a tourism and telecom. Annex has what Sabah al-Binali, OurCrowd’s Dubai and the local stock exchange, semiarid climate. worked with VCs in Germany, India new venture partner and head to discuss opportunities for Israeli “In our part of the world, they are and the Silicon Valley. of Gulf Region, called the businesses. not focusing on agritech enough. In addition to Israeli agricultural continued on next page

JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 7 continued from previous page led by Israel National Security in the UAE and Israel to start Medical City in Abu Dhabi co- “friendly business environment” of Council head Meir Ben-Shabbat, networking and build friendship, hosted “The Future of Pediatric the UAE. flew directly to Bahrain to sign a peace and understanding through Cardiac Critical Care” webinar for joint communique and eight MoUs the advancement of business.” 400 physicians and nurses from 35 Collaboration is power regarding future cooperation.) And it’s not only business; it’s also countries on Oct. 1. Al Nowais tells ISRAEL21c: “The Wurtman wrote in an English- research and culture. This far from The UAE’s Etihad Airways launched three main objectives of the Emirates language Dubai newspaper comprehensive list demonstrates a Hebrew-language website for Angels Investors Association are that he was impressed by the the diversity of activity, not counting customers interested in the direct to educate angel investors on UAE government’s Ministry of the area of food security already Tel Aviv-Abu Dhabi route. opportunities and risks; collaborate Possibilities founded in 2019, and mentioned: The Israel Export Institute signed with incubators and accelerators in sees many opportunities for Israeli Israel’s Mobileye signed a a joint agreement with the Dubai the UAE and around the world; and water, desert agriculture and solar partnership with UAE-based Al World Trade Centre Authority to provide [vetted] startups to these technologies, among others. Habtoor Group to deploy a fleet of facilitate the participation of Israeli angel investors. In a year or two, we More than that, he tells ISRAEL21c, self-driving robo-taxis in Dubai by exhibitors in large-scale exhibitions want to be a safe place for angel “I am most passionate about the end of 2022. by year-end. investors to come to the UAE.” collaborating around education and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, The Abu Dhabi Film Commission He says mentoring and creating an exchange between Israeli Israel Aerospace Industries and and the Israel Film Fund will establish professional networking are just as and Emirati youth to engage in the TeraGroup signed agreements joint training and development vital for startups as financing. world of possibilities, innovation with UAE companies concerning programs for Emirati and Israeli “It’s important to get people to and creating a better future for all in Covid-19 research and solution filmmakers in partnership with meet and share knowledge and the region.” development. the Jerusalem Sam Spiegel Film & experience. I believe in connecting Next year, Wurtman plans to bring The diamond exchanges in Israel Television School. and collaborating,” says Al Nowais. 20 young ambassadors from his and Dubai will open offices in one URE Universal of Ramat Gan He expects this will be easy to PICO Kids initiative—founded in another’s countries to promote partnered with the UAE’s Hamad Bin accomplish with Israelis. 2012 to provide informal education mutual trade. Khalifa Department of Projects to “I think you have the best ecosystem in STEEM (science, technology, APEX National Investment (UAE) launch an IoT home health-care kit, because you collaborate together, engineering, entrepreneurship and and Sheba Medical Center (Israel) HBKiCare, for the UAE and Middle even if you have differences. I think math) to multi-ethnic Jerusalem signed a strategic partnership East regional markets. this is the power.” fourth- to ninth-graders—to meet regarding research, technology and OurCrowd signed a memorandum the next generation of entrepreneurs medical tourism. of understanding with UAE-based Building gadgets and bridges in the UAE. Israel’s Mul-T-Lock Group is Phoenix business-development together “They will build gadgets—and opening a Dubai subsidiary. company and appointed Emirati Last February, just before Covid bridges—together. They will meet The Weizmann Institute of Science investor Sabah al-Binalias as its hit the Middle East—and well before courageous investors like Ibrahim (Israel) and Mohamed bin Zayed venture partner for the Gulf region. the Abraham Accords—Jerusalem- Ajami, eat hummus together, University (UAE) will collaborate on Edouard Cukierman notes that based serial entrepreneur and PICO play backgammon or X-Box, and artificial intelligence research. the UAE is a business hub for the Venture Partners co-founder and collectively work to solve some of Dubai-based private equity fund Gulf countries, like Singapore is for managing partner Elie Wurtman the region’s most pressing problems.” KEN Investments and Barker and Asia. The Emirates has advanced visited the UAE and Bahrain. Booth Commercial Agency each education and healthcare systems, UAE investor Ibrahim Ajami had Robo-taxis, security doors, made their first Israeli investments— and women are active in the business publicly invited Israelis to invest COVID-19 fighters KEN in Salaryo and B&B in community. in his country and spurred similar News of joint UAE-Israeli projects Fintica, both fintech startups. “This trip to the UAE was the most invitations from leaders in other Gulf and investments has been swirling. Arab-Israeli soccer player Dia Saba impressive business trip I’ve ever states. Deals already happening under the signed a three-year contract with made,” says Cukierman. “Not only On October 18, Wurtman flew to radar were revealed, and many new Dubai-based soccer club Al-Nasr SC. for the magnitude of opportunity the UAE on a historic direct flight collaborations announced. Dr. Uri Pollak from Hadassah but also because we have much in from Tel Aviv with a delegation led An online platform, the UAE-Israel University Medical Center common in our culture, climate and by U.S. Secretary of the Treasury List, was created “to enable like- in Jerusalem and Dr. Kesava regional geography.” Steve Mnuchin. (A second group, minded companies and organizations Ramakrishnan from Sheikh Khalifa

8 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com ews Jewish Community News N www.jfedps.org www.jfedps.org mmunity Tevet/Shevat 5780 - February 2020 Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 - December 2019 o The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert Jewish C Jewish C HELP US KEEP The Publication of the Jewisho mmunityFederation of the Desert Swastika Incident in Palm Springs Must Be a Call to Action Against Hate The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert By Bruce Landgarten, Jewish Federation CEO ews N terrorism and violent attack. While N www.jfedps.org Partnering with ADL: A World of Difference ews mmunityOn a Saturday and spray painted on a sidewalk at of Mr. Weinstein’s building. the Coachella Valley is not a large www.jfedps.org o Tevet/Shevat 5779 - January 2019 Cheshvan/Kislev 5779 - November 2018 C morning in late Florida State University, a tree in New Let me be clear: Graffiti and Jewish enough Jewish community to afford October, Palm City, N.Y., a Jewish couple’s mailbox in vandalism will not be tolerated, and Run | Hide | Fight a full-time security director, our Springs police Phoenix, and on it goes. the Jewish community rejects the utilized in recent years is their anti- The Publication of the Jewish Federation of the Desert The actions implied in these three Jewish Federation is dedicated to responded to The swastika is the all-purpose hatred these symbols represent. bullying training. Jewish Federation The Anti-Defamation League understanding. Workshops and reports of a swastika hate symbol, the mother of all hate While this may be an isolated incident, words saves lives. It was proven 16 helping agencies prepare, mitigate, "fights anti-Semitism and all forms allocations and the proceeds from Assembly programs are provided drawn outside the brands. There is no single explanation we cannot allow this behavior to months ago, when the Tree of Life and respond to a crisis as part of our of bigotry, defends democratic the Tamarisk Men’s Golf Tournament for students in Becoming-an-Ally, office of Weinstein for the new omnipresence of this become routine. Everyone has a Synagogue in Pittsburgh was the site ideals, and protects civil rights for (CSI), Communal Security Initiative.funds ADL’s ‘A World of Difference Cyber-Ally, Peer Leadership and Peer and Associates. symbol. Law enforcement officers role to play in combating bigotry of the worst anti-Semitic attack on all.” Our desert Jewish community We are committed to the continuationInstitute’ which we bring into our Training, designed to give a voice to A swastika drawn with a crayon was say bona fide neo-Nazis are growing —we must advocate, educate and THE JEWISH American soil. As horrible as the attack has a long symbiotic history with the of efforts to help train and educatelocal schools. in This program offers the targets of bullying and prejudice, reported by Palm Springs attorney bolder and more public, reflecting investigate until hate is no longer anti-bias, bullying prevention, and build empathy in the aggressors and on that Shabbat morning was, the ADL, turning to them for direction (left to right)safety Federation and security Board co-chairsawareness. Robert Weinstein on a sign outside an increase in the influence of racist welcome in our society. diversity training for students and security training given the leadership and leadership when anti-Semitic Allan LehmannSecure and Celia Community Norian, ADL’s Network has inspire bystanders to become allies. his office. While most people know ideology in the political conversation. At the Jewish Federation of and members of the Pittsburgh Jewish incidents have occurred in our Annie M. Ortega, and Federation CEO educators. Interactive, cutting In addition, our Federation something about the Holocaust, they Police say that many of the crimes the Desert, our CAST initiative become a proven, criticaledge partner programs rooted in research community in the preceding eighteen community and taking advantage Bruce Landgarten. partners with ADL to bring an have no idea how much horror, pain involve kids who are rebelling, aware (Combatting Anti-Semitism Today) throughout thefor years. Jewish Federation of theto equip Desert, participants to counter annual educational program to our months unquestionably saved lives. of their educational programming and fear is tied up with the swastika advancingthat the swastika self-sufficiency is bad, but perhaps and aims to prepare individuals to stand 2020, our Jewish The ADL workingprogram with that our our Federationprejudice and in and bigotry as well as community. This year’s program will symbol. stimulatingignorant to thesocial fact entrepreneurship that it symbolizes from a peak in High Tor State Park in up and fight for social justice while On January 15, Patrick Daly, SCN; Jewish Federation Board Chair Roberta Nyman, SCN’s Brad Orsini,community and Jewish hastraining focused with on andour local lawpromote enforcement positive human relations be Tuesday, November 27th, with “Jerusalem is the heartas usual. of People our heart, the soul of our soul.” — Elie Wiesel Federation CEO Bruce Landgarten with three membersat Tree of theof LifeRiverside Synagogue Sheriff’s Department. made a Do people understand the links ingenocide. coastal North San Diego County New York to a picnic table outside the faced with hostile behavior, aiming to Federation, in partnership with Secure agencies. Security Communitythrough increased knowledge and Dr. Peter Simi. (See ad on page 4). Jerusalem: dropping their Remembering Kristallnacht between the symbol and Nazi andThe Jerusalem. symbol is used so liberally that public library in Choctaw, Oklahoma. spread a message of solidarity. Community Network, hosted a session As devastating as were the eleven practice of not carrying his cell phone it’s a headline, kids off at Network has also become our Germany? Nobody predicted sometimesDr. Marik it’s hard Shtern, to know an Urbanits point. I’m especially disgusted that this We call for action motivated by 75th Anniversaryon Shabbat. Appreciating – Denmark’s that without Daring Rescue of Their Jews a muse, a school, going to “Before and After the Tree of Life: deaths, it could have been far worse. “community insurance policy.” When the outrage, hurt and sadness this ChangesGeographer, in the isswastika’s a visiting use lecturer reflect perpetrator, or group of perpetrators, freedom and tolerance, rather than his phone he couldn’t contact law symbol and work, shopping Lessons Learned” with Brad Orsini. The training given to Pittsburgh’sIsraeli and Danish dignitaries conflict in the Middle East heats up or action has caused. There is an issue changesat UC San in Diego, the hate and community. a researcher crayoned a swastika, a historic and hatred and fear. To learn more, call marked the 75th enforcement anniversary of in the case of an emergency, an actual in the market. COMMUNITY NEWS Orsini, a former FBI agent, was the Jewish community may have been the terrorism level rises in the United of intolerance in America today. It’s Itsat usersthe Jerusalem can be dividedInstitute intofor Policy two extreme emblem of hatred, in front 760-324-4737. daring rescue of more than 7,000 Jews city in which prompted by rising anti-Semitism but he began carrying his phone … and country of 4 million people. Before Perhaps that disturbing that it has happened, but broadResearch categories: His fields vandals of research — who are Director of Jewish Community Security from Denmark by boat to neighboring States, we rely upon SCN to keep us people work, his call to 911 on October 27, 2018, the war, Denmark's small Jewish could now move against the Jews. is because I’mseemingly not convinced intractable it was dilemmas planned withor areGeographies by far the more of Encounter, numerous — and Urban for the Jewish Federation of Greater it included basic survivalSweden techniques during World War II. Israel’s informed and assist us with taking the celebrate, population was well integrated into In September Hitler approved the Jerusalemites know a little secret: this premeditated.bold new approaches. ideologues.Geopolitics and Jewish-Arab Pittsburgh, and had implemented and the rethinking ofPresident priorities Reuven The Rivlinwas the and first Danish call to reach police. m o u r n , necessary measuresthe and community. precautions On April 9, 1940, deportation of the Danish Jews. city does not belong to one religion Panel Speakers include Chaya relations in Jerusalem. As a social Prime Minister Lars LoekkeIt is a Rasmussen matter of record that Jewish Swastika use is on the rise, but Vandals mark the swastika security training protocols, beginning community learned that a moving It's one of the great to almost secure our facilitiesGermany and attackedpeople. Denmark. From Werner Best of the SS, Hitler's chief create, or nation. Instead, the Jerusalemites Gilboa, Charlene Seidle and Dr. activist, Marik also specializes in the paid tribute to the eventsinstitutions, in 1943 Federations, in unknown synagogues, stories of World War II. In among those who understand it anonymously and covertly; they in 2017, for Pittsburgh’s extensive target is much harder to hit, and on then until 1945, Denmark was under in Denmark, received the final order innovate, cry, pray and play. On belong to her. Marik Shtern. sphere of community empowerment ceremonies at the small fishing town 1943, in German-occupied Denmark, least. The swastika has morphed into don’t display it at rallies in the town Jewish institutions (synagogues, JCCs, that horrible morning it was those JCCs, camps and day schools have German occupation. Most Danes were to proceed with deportation of Jews Sunday, January 20, 2019, the This interactive educational Chaya Gilboa was born in and strategic consulting for third of Gilleleje, some 50 kilometers (31 the Danish people find out that all a universal symbol of hate. People square. Some in this category are were able to run that survived. been the target of hatred, extremism, pro-British and anti-Nazi, but they to death camps, on Sept.28, 1943. Leichtag Foundation is bringing a program will give participants an schools, etc.) servicing the area’s miles) north of Copenhagen. 7,500 Danish Jews are about to be didn’tJerusalem give their to livesan ultra-Orthodox fighting Hitler individuals,sector organizations. often adults, who don’t were also aware of the need to adjust The Nazis were prepared to deport unique perspective on Jerusalem experience of Jerusalem through We hope you will join us for 50,000+ Jews. Before the training, the Rabbi rounded up and deported to German forfamily. Nazi ideas A social to go activist, unchallenged she is care about ideology and use the “The rescue of the Jews of to living in a German-dominated the 7,500 Jews, starting at 10 PM. on to the Jewish Federation of the the lens of some of the city's most The training made a difference. Denmark is a remarkable event in concentration camps. Danish citizens herecommitted at home. toHitler’s creating torch alternatives shows swastika Jerusalem as a psychological 2020: Beneath weapon the Europe. Danes and Germans quickly Oct.1, 1943. Georg F. Duckwitz, a Desert. The program will be held creative residents and its profound the history of the Holocaust, a bright spontaneously make their own no withinsign of burningthe realm out. of religion and againstHeadlines someone for a peek because into the of worlda worked out the terms of occupation. German maritime attaché, leaked out at the Jewish Federation, beginning challenges. We’ll also hear from ( JCN) COMING TO light in the darkest time in human decision: it's not going to happen.media platforms. The time for Instate, the recent establishing past, swastikas Hashgacha have Pratit, personal of social grudge activists or beef. in Thanks Jerusalem to King Christian X remained in Denmark, the order to Hans Hedtoft a Danish at 11:00 am. There is no charge, but keynote speaker Dr. Jeffrey Solomon, history. Denmark is a shining example And it didn't. Risking their ownthoughts lives, and prayers has passed — appearedan alternative across America. kashrut Nosystem place and a combinationworking to ofmake hate, a differenceignorance in US Congress Debate Response to Risingbeen Anti-Semitism, coming to America since Domesticunlike Terrorism his fellow monarchs in Norway Social Democrat, who in turn warned reservations are required as space President of the Andrea and Charles of a country that stood at the side the Danes quickly rallied roundthe to time now is for action.” seemsactive safe. in Thecrafting swastika egalitarian has been wedding and one nihilism, of the the most swastika important has been cities in By Algemeiner Staff before it was even called America and the Netherlands who fled to C.B. Henriques, the head of the Jewish is limited. Bronfman Philanthropies (TBC) and on Intelligenceof & its Counterterrorism Jewish community during the save their fellow citizens, and almost etchedceremonies on parked andcars in other Miami initiatives Beach, painted, the world. posted, We scratched, will also chalkedreceive an in order to freely practice their Experts addressingescape the Germans the hearing and establish Community. The world seems to want violence luminary of Jewish philanthropy, Two separate hearings at the titled “ConfrontingHolocaust. the The Rise Jewish in Anti- people and the all of the country's Jews were able to Cincinnati,that combine and Port feminism Washington, and N.Y., Jewish and up-to-dateinked on all briefingmanner of on surfaces, the recent included resistance Nathan Diament movements — thein England. The On September 29th, two days in Jerusalem. It expects and awaits it. Semitic Domesticstate of Terrorism.” Israel will never forgetreligion, that,” escapeescape persecution, the clutches of and the Nazis and about why he sees Jerusalem as identity. Jerusalem Municipal Elections which US Congress in mid-January have executiveDanish director government of the Union continued of to rule. before the projected round up on And today’s Jerusalemites are saying: Rivlin said. build a betterfind refugelife for in their neutral families. Sweden. an important philanthropic lab. Charlene Seidle is the Executive are widely thought to be a preview examined potential measures that “The horrific rise in anti-Semitic In August, 1943, a state of Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish New Not us, not now. They refuse to act Yet now weDenmark are under was assault a small by idyllic Orthodox Jewish Congregations of Attendees will be challenged, Vice President of the Leichtag of the trends that will be seen in legislators can take in response domestic terrorism is an issue that emergency was declared in Denmark, Year, Dr. Marcus Melchior, the acting out the script that’s been written delighted and surprised as they meet extremists, many of whom are America — who argued that the Foundation, a private independent national Israel elections to be held to the recent rise in anti-Semitic has deeply affected my district, and the Nazis decidedcontinued on that page they 2 chief Rabbi of the Krystalgaade for them. Despite pressure from activists from across the spectrum of foundation committed to igniting in early 2019. emboldened to act and often rhetoric and attacks across America. my community, and the whole continued on page 21 national and international leaders, Jerusalem’s multifaceted society and and inspiring vibrant Jewish life, encouraged by content on social what Jerusalemites actually see on On January 15, freshman Rep. Max New York City area,” Rose said in engage with thought leaders tackling chaired a session of the the ground is daily life continuing YOUR DOORSTEP Rose (D-NY) a statement. “Jewish people have Homeland Security Subcommittee

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JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 9 Friedman: Palestinian Narrative of Victimization ‘Coming to an End’ By Israel Kasnett, JNS An astonishing level of criticism from maybe more countries over time. for three years. They don’t want it. Arab commentators, intellectuals and And we are having discussions with They don’t want to normalize until journalists has been leveled at the many of them now. Each one has their they get everything they want.” Palestinian leadership in recent weeks own issues, their own population in response to its condemnations dynamics. It’s not a one-size-fits-all ‘The reality is there is no against countries such as the United type of arrangement. I’m enormously leadership’ Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Sudan, optimistic.” Friedman said the Palestinian which have just signed normalization The new relationships are impacting U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman leadership’s policy of holding its agreements with Israel. the activities of Iran. Compared to just He said the Palestinians have population hostage “is terrific if you Five years ago, it seemed that the a few months ago, Israel now has the received “enormous amounts of are the leader, and you’re wealthy Palestinians could never fall out of UAE and Bahrain as allies right on the money,” although he acknowledged and you live in a palace and you have grace with Americans, the Arab world Straits of Hormuz, and “in that region, the United States was a major everything you want. It’s a terrible or even the Europeans. These days, all there will be more,” said Friedman. contributor. policy for the 2.5 million people this seems to have changed. “What the Iranians are seeing are “We spent an enormous amount of living in Judea and Samaria who can Uzi Rabi, head of the Moshe Dayan two things. They see their situation money trying to build up Palestinian live better.” Center at Tel Aviv University, sat down is deteriorating. Internally, they have society,” he said, but “no one has “Who is the leadership?” Friedman for a discussion with U.S. Ambassador enormous challenges. But they also anything to show for it. The leadership asked regarding the Palestinians. “The to Israel David Friedman to discuss the see those opting for a path towards has put a lot of money in their pocket. reality is there is no leadership. You peace agreements and the future of peace with Israel and strengthening [Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas] couldn’t shake hands with anybody the Middle East on the impact of the their relationship with America.” is wealthy. His friends are wealthy. today with any sense of assurance recent agreements. . “Some of us in Washington have The prime minister of Israel travels that tomorrow we’d move forward Friedman said he believes the looked at it simply as: The Iranians on a chartered El Al flight. [He] flies on an agreement because no one normalization agreements have hate the agreements with the Emirates, on a $75 million Boeing business jet can deliver the Palestinian people proven that “the sky’s the limit.” Bahrain and others, and if they hate wherever he wants all around the because they have thrived on conflict.” He expressed hope that “in our it so much, it must be good for the world when he has a GDP per capita So where will this lead? lifetimes, God willing, we will see an world and the region, and I think it is,” 1/20th the size of Israel.” “We put a plan on the table, and end to the Arab-Israeli conflict as he said. Friedman blamed the Palestinian it may not be everything they like,” we’ve traditionally thought of it—the As for the Palestinians, Rabi pointed leadership for being concerned only said Friedman, “but it presented a notion of a 22-member Arab League out that they “feel as if they were for “their own personal interests realistic solution that would have that is united in their opposition to neglected and left behind.” against the will of the Palestinian also resulted in a highly favorable Israel. I think it will come to an end.” “Some say this Palestinian leadership people.” economic boom to the region. Again, “It doesn’t mean all 22 Arab League is unable to move forward,” he said “They failed. And to a certain extent investment and infrastructure—not nations will come on board,” he and questioned whether there are the world has enabled that failure,” he charity. The leadership ran to the U.N. added. “It will be incremental. But alternative or younger Palestinian said. General Assembly and ripped it all up I have no doubt it will grow five, 10, leaders who can take the lead and He also noted that when he first publicly.” move towards normalization with began serving as ambassador, Friedman said that countries in the Israel. he noticed that the Palestinian region “are starting to realize that if Community Schools Friedman disagreed with the leadership “repeatedly rejected they hold their own progress back Aleph Schoolhouse notion that the Palestinians have been economic opportunity in the West in order to facilitate the Palestinians, Reopening in September neglected by the Arab world, saying Bank because they felt it would hurt they could be waiting forever.” Director: Dina Pinson he “would say just the opposite.” their narrative of victimization.” “If the Palestinians are reading the 73-550 Santa Rosa Way, Palm Desert According to Friedman, the “So they would prefer their people tea leaves correctly, they need to Children 18 months through Palestinians “have been indulged by suffer and remain angry than get engage,” he advised. “They need to Elementary School the Arab world, by the European the benefits of economic aid—real stop relying upon the narrative of Alephschoolhouse.org Union, by others. People have made economic aid,” he said. “I don’t mean victimization. It served them well for a 347-721-8782 excuses for their malign activity for handouts. I mean real investments in couple of generations, but I think that generations.” the West Bank. It’s been on the table time is coming to an end.” 10 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com Report: Israel in Top Four Out of 47 Nations Fighting International Bribery Transparency International’s global index ranks Israel in its highest category with respect to enforcing laws barring the bribery of foreign officials. Israel Hayom Transparency International, a countries surveyed, according to into such cases. One criminal Lahav 433 Major Crimes Unit. watchdog group fighting corruption the report. indictment was filed and three cases Some involve the Israel Securities worldwide, named Israel in its Transparency International concluded with imposing sanctions Authority and Tax Authority. top category for enforcement operates in over 100 countries and on the suspected parties. A statement by the Justice against corruption in international its Israeli office is headed by the According to Globes, the report Ministry said, “Israel sees effective transactions, financialformer president of the National made note of directives issued enforcement of the prohibition daily Globes reported in mid Labor Court Judge Nili Arad. by the State Attorney’s Office in against bribery of a foreign official October. This is the second Recognizing the efforts that October 2019, outlining policy with as an important element in the successive year in which Israel has Israel has invested in enforcing laws regard to indicting corporations campaign to create an international gotten top marks for combating designed to eliminate corruption and the relevant penalties under climate free of corruption that also this type of corruption. from international deals, the report the law. Investigations of foreign contributes to the strengthening The United States, the United said that between 2016 and 2019, bribery cases are carried out by of the maintenance of honest Kingdom and Switzerland were local law-enforcement agencies the Israel Police’s National Fraud practices within Israel.” also given top marks among the 47 have launched 10 investigations Unit and are supervised by the White Supremacist Jailed Over Plot to Bomb Las Vegas Synagogue, ADL By Ken Ritter and Michael Kunzelman, AP A white supremacist who told an and he’s the not same person that was undercover FBI agent about his plans arrested,” Riddle said. to firebomb a synagogue or attack The FBI said it began investigating a Las Vegas bar catering to LGBTQ Climo in April 2019 after learning customers was sentenced November of his encrypted internet chats with 13 to two years in prison. As member members of Feuerkrieg Division, an of offshoot of neo-Nazi group international offshoot of a US-based Atomwaffen Division, Conor Climo neo-Nazi group called Atomwaffen expressed hatred of Jews, African Division. Climo told FBI agents that Americans and gay people; was found he joined Feuerkrieg Division but left collecting bomb-making materials because he “became bored with the Conor Climo, 24, apologized group and their inaction,” according to before US District Judge James Mahan a court filing. sentenced him to prison followed by Climo, in pleading guilty to a six months of home confinement with firearm charge, acknowledged that electronic monitoring. Prosecutors he discussed attacking a synagogue recommended a 30-month prison or other targets during his online sentence. “I was truly wrong for all of communications with an undercover this,” Climo said. “I even have come to FBI agent and an informant. Agents really regret everything, everything who searched Climo’s Las Vegas home that I was involved with.” found bomb components and two Defense attorney Paul Riddle said rifles. his client is grateful that FBI agents Climo was “not just talking about arrested him when they did because what he believes and intends to do, but he knows that he was on a “very dark rather is planning, and has engaged in p ath.” actions,” a federal magistrate judge “But he’s not on that path anymore, wrote after Climo’s arrest.

JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 11 Senators

Michael Bennet Richard Ben Cardin Dianne Feinstein Jacky Rosen Bernie Sanders Brian Schatz Charles Schumer Ron Wyden (D-CO) Blumenthal (D-MD) (D-CA) (D-NV) (I-VT) (D-HI) (D-NY) (D-OR) (D-CT) 36 Jews Will Serve Representatives in 117th Congress Possible tenth senator if Ossoff successful in Georgia Senatorial bid By Miriam H. Bent According to the 2010 census, Jews comprise 1.76 percent of the United States population Jake Auchicloss Suzanne David Cicilline Steve Cohen Ted Deutch Lois Frankel Sara Jacobs Josh Gottheimer but represent nine (D-MA) Bonamici (D-OR) (D-RI) (D-TN) (D-FL) (D-FL) (D-CA) (D-NJ) percent of the Senate and will represent 6.2 percent of the House of Representatives in the upcoming 117th Congress. None of the Jon Ossoff nine senators, eight (D-GA) Democrats and one David Kustoff Andy Levin Mike Levin Alan Lowenthal Elaine Luria Kathy Manning Jerrold Nadler Dean Phillips Independent, were up for reelection. (R-TN) (D-MI) (D-CA) (D-CA) (D-VA) (D-NC) (D-NY) (D-MN) Georgia is holding runoff elections for both Senatorial seats on January 5, 2021. If Democrat Jon Ossoff is successful in his bid, he would be the tenth Jew in the Senate and the first from Georgia. Of the 37 Jews serving in the 116th House of Representatives, Eliot Engel Jamie Raskin Jan Schakowsky Adam Schiff Brad Schneider Dr. Kim Schrier Brad Sherman Eilssa Slotkin Debbie (D-NY) lost in the primary elections (D-MD) (D-IL) (D-CA) (D-IL), (D-WN) (D-CA) (D-MI) Wasserman and two Representatives, Nita Lowey Schultz (D-FL) (D-NY) and Susan Davis (D-CA) the Jewish Federations of and five members of the retired. Of the remaining members, North America, was elected House: Adam Schiff, Mike only Max Rose (D-NY) failed to be in North Carolina. The third, Levin, Alan Lowenthal, reelected. Sara Jacobs, was elected to Brad Sherman, and now Three new Jews were elected, all the San Diego seat vacated Sara Jacobs. Next closest is Democrats. Jake Auchincloss, a former by Susan Davis when she Florida with three House Marine Captain, was elected in retired. As a result, California members. Lee Zeldin (R- Susan Wild John Yarmuth Lee Zeldin Massachusetts. Kathy Manning, active continues to have the most NY) and David Kustoff (D-PA) (D-KY) (R-NY) in Jewish communal life including Jewish representation, with (R-TN) are the only two serving as the only woman to head Senator Diane Feinstein Republicans. 12 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com European Jewish Population at Lowest Share for a Millennium and Declining By Cnaan Liphshiz, JTA Jews’ share of the population Europe, the United Kingdom, Turkey to the emigration of more than 1.5 because more than 40% of its of Europe is as low now as it was and Russia. million people following the collapse 118,000 Jews are above the age of 1,000 years ago and is declining even That figure has declined by nearly of the Iron Curtain, their data shows. 65, whereas less than 10% are under further, according to a landmark new 60% since 1970, when there were 3.2 But Western Europe, too, has lost 15, the study says. This reality, which demographic study. million Jews in the same area, wrote 8.5% of its Jewish population since exists also in Russia and Ukraine, The study published October the report’s authors, Daniel Staetsky 1970. It is home to just over a million “foreshadows high death rates and 21 by the London-based Institute and Sergio DellaPergola. Jews today compared to 1,112,000 unavoidable future population for Jewish Policy Research found That decline, which follows the in 1970. decline,” according to the study. 1.3 million people who describe death of about 6 million European In particular, the Jewish community themselves as Jewish in continental Jews in the Holocaust, owes mostly of Germany is in a “terminal” state Fundraiser Extended Until the End of December

JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 13 Jonathan Sacks, Former UK Chief Rabbi and Jewish ‘Intellectual Giant,’ Dies at 72 By Ben Harris, Cnaan Liphshiz and Gabe Friedman, JTA Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, the former chief Minister Tony Blair, who called Sacks “an who support him,” Sacks said in 2018 rabbi of the United Kingdom whose intellectual giant” and presented him during an interview with the New extensive writings and frequent media with a lifetime achievement award in Statesman. appearances commanded a global 2018. That judgement paved the way for following among Jews and non-Jews Sacks was also an immensely prolific the current British Chief Rabbi Ephraim alike, has died at age 72. He was in the author, addressing pressing social and Mirvis to harshly condemn the Labour Party, a precedent-setting event in midst of a third bout of cancer, which he political issues in a succession of well Rabbi Jonathan Sacks had announced in October. received books. British Jewish life. Sacks was among the world’s leading “When anger erupts in a body politic, Semitism. Corbyn was replaced in April by exponents of Orthodox Judaism for a there is quite often a justified cause. But Sacks spoke out publicly as Britain’s centrist Keir Starmer, who has apologized global audience. In his 22 years as chief then the political domain has got to take Labour Party was engulfed in an anti- for how anti-Semitism was allowed to rabbi, he emerged as the most visible that anger and deal with it very fast,” he Semitism scandal under its previous flourish in Labour’s ranks under Corbyn. Jewish leader in the United Kingdom and told JTA’s opinion editor Laura Adkins. leader Jeremy Corbyn, calling Corbyn Starmer, who is married to a Jewish one of the European continent’s leading “Because anger exposes the problem an anti-Semite. woman, expressed his condolences to Jewish voices, offering Jewish wisdom to but never delivers the solution.” “We have an anti-Semite as the leader “the entire Jewish world.” Sacks “was a the masses through a regular segment he But he did take public stances on of the Labour Party and her majesty’s towering intellect whose eloquence, produced for the BBC. He had a close two topics that were often ensnared opposition. That is why Jews feel so insights and kindness reached well relationship with former British Prime with European politics: Israel and anti- threatened by Mr. Corbyn and those beyond the Jewish community. I have no doubt that his legacy will live on for many generations.” Sacks was also vocal in his opposition to the forces that lead to anti-Semitism on the far left and the far right. “Anti- NEW CEMETERY Semitism has little to do with Jews — they are its object, not its cause — and PROPERTY everything to do with dysfunction in the DEVELOPMENT communities that harbor it.” Sacks is survived by his wife Elaine, three children and several grandchildren.

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14 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com All contributions received by the Jewish Federation for Tribute Cards are Tribute Card Donations placed in our special Tzedakah Fund, which provides direct monetary Sending tributes and memorials is a meaningful way to honor loved ones. intervention for needy Jews living in the Coachella Valley. Call 760-324-4737. Honorarium Tributes • Monroe Rifkin, Belated happy birthday • Martin Matsoff, In memory of our dear In Appreciation For: greetings from Loreen Jacobson. friend Randee Matsoff, from Claude and Chickie Steinberger. • Rabbi Faith Tessler, In your honor, from • Bobbie Block, Belated birthday wishes and a Steven S. Sadd. • Bobbie Nagel, With deepest sympathies on healthy year ahead, from Barbara Platt. the loss of your beloved grandson Ross, from • Joannne Hirshfield, Belated birthday wishes Refuah Shleimah Gail and Bob Scadron. and a healthy year ahead, from Barbara Platt. Get Well Wishes To: • Mr. and Mrs. Selwin Price, Our deepest • Jewish Federation of the Desert, Thank you sympathy for the loss of your daughter-in-law • Bruce Landgarten, Wishing you a speedy for the Sukkot Goodie Box, from Elaine Kravitz. Donna, from Marnie Miller and Joe Noren. recovery, from Rabbi Yankel and Rochel • Barbara Fremont, To our dear friend on her Kreiman. • Bobbie Rosenberg, In memory of your special birthday, from Eunice and Jerry Meister beloved husband Shelly, from Barbara Platt and • Annette Pluss, In hopes for your complete and Joan and Pat Kerns. Dr. Paul and Stephanie Ross. and speedy recovery, from Marnie Miller and • Loreen Jacobson, Happy 90th birthday, Joe Noren. • Elaine Sacks, In memory of your beloved from Lois Davidson, Myra L. Gordon and Norm husband, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, an inspiration • Debra Star, To a successful recovery, from J. Lewis, Sanford B. and Rosemary E. Hertz, Patty to the Jewish world, from Dr. Paul and Stephanie Ellen and Phil Glass. Jacobson, Ruth and Mal Kaufman, Pearle and Ross. Mark Levey, Rella and Monty Rifkin. Memoriam Tributes • Peter Williams and Family, In memory of • Jeanne Levitt, Happy birthday wishes from Condolences Sent To: your brothers, from Ann and Paul Fishman. Loreen Jacobson. • Karen Cohen, In memory of your beloved • Roz Woloshin and Family, In memory of • Roberta Nyman, Belated birthday wishes husband Chuck, from Eddie and Jackie Cohen, your beloved husband Billy, from Eunice and and a healthy year ahead, from Barbara Platt. Cora Ginsberg, Stuart Goldfine, Margie Kulp, Jerry Meister. Celia Norian, Barbara Platt and Dr. Paul and • Jordana Pepper, Mazel tov! Mazel tov for • Brenda Zaidman and Family, With deepest Stephanie Ross. your achievement, from Rabbi Yankel and sympathies on the loss of your beloved nephew Rochel Kreiman. • Mrs. Keith Comrie, In memory of your beloved Ross, from Gail and Bob Scadron. husband Keith, from Marnie Miller and Joe Noren. • Barbara Platt, Happy birthday Mom. Love, • The Zessar Family, In memory of your Karen Platt. • Edith Familian, In memory of your beloved beloved Sandy, from Marnie Miller and Joe husband, Arnold, from Larry and Cathy Pitts. Noren. Ron Klain to Serve as Biden’s Chief of Staff President-elect Joe Biden has in our history in 2009 and later instrumental role in crafting and announced that Ron Klain, 59, will overcame a daunting public health executing the Biden administration’s serve as his chief of staff, a position emergency in 2014,” Biden said policy goals, including its efforts to he held for Biden within the Obama in a statement. “His deep, varied combat the coronavirus pandemic. administration from 2009 to 2011. experience and capacity to work Former President Barack Obama “Ron has been invaluable to me with people all across the political tasked Klain to lead government over the many years that we have spectrum is precisely what I need in Ron Klain response to the Ebola outbreak from worked together, including as we a White House chief of staff as we As White House chief of staff, 2014 to 2015. rescued the American economy confront this moment of crisis and Klain, who is Jewish, will play an from one of the worst downturns bring our country together again.” JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 15 December Shabbat Schedule Due to the uncertainties from the Covid Pandemic, we urge you to check online or call any temple or shul you are interested in attending to find out what is currently being offered. BETH SHALOM (Member, United CHABAD OF SUN CITY Mirage, CA 92270. www.Desert- TEMPLE ISAIAH Synagogue of Conservative Judaism) PALM DESERT Outreach-Synagogue.com. Virtual Rabbi Steven Rosenberg Ken Hailpern, Spiritual Leader Rabbi Yonason Denebeim. services held the second and fourth 332 West Alejo Road, Palm Springs, 79-733 Country Club Drive, Bermuda See Chabad of Palm Springs. Fridays at 7:00 pm on Zoom. For CA 92262, 760-325-2281. www. Dunes, CA 92203 760-200-3636 link and password contact rabbi @ templeisaiahps.com. www.congregationbethshalom.net CONGREGATION HAR-EL desert-outreach-synagogue.com. To access any activity, go to Temple Virtual Shabbat Morning Services: (Member, Union for Reform Judaism) Isaiah’s website and click on link to 10:00 am, Zoom link on website: Rabbi Richard Zionts; Cantor Joseph OR HAMIDBAR desired service or program. Friday CongregationBethShalom.net Gole. [email protected] Rabbi David Lazar rabbi@ evening services accessed, as above, For information, email 760-779-1691. orhamidbar.org. Virtual Kabbalat on website or directly on Facebook [email protected] or call New website: www.harelurjpd.org. Services Fridays at 6:30 pm and ‘Temple Isaiah Palm Springs’ at 7:30 760-200-3636. Zoom Shabbat Evening Services Shabbat morning services at 10:30 pm. Twice a month we offer Shabbat 5 pm with Rabbi Richard Zionts, am. For information email info@ Under the Stars from our outside bima. Check website to confirm which CHABAD OF PALM SPRINGS & Ph.D., Cantor Joseph Gole, D.Mus. orhamidbar.org. weeks each month. Outside service DESERT COMMUNITIES and a Guest Cantor. Discussion with attendees before and after the also available on Facebook Live. Rabbi Yonason Denebeim & SUN CITY JEWISH SERVICES Shabbat morning Nosh and Drash Rabbi Arik Denebeim Shabbat Services . Rabbi Kenneth Emert; Cantor Saturday 11 am—Zoom Torah Study Virtual Torah Study Saturdays at 10:00 425 Avenida Ortega, Palm Springs, Alan Scott. Virtual Services held am via Zoom. “Jewish University” from CA 92264 www.chabadpalmsprings. with Discussion conducted by the first and third Fridays at 7:15 Rabbi Zionts. 1:30-3 PM also on Zoom. No charge. com 760-325-0774 th pm. Information: Contact Susan RSVP requested. 5:30 pm: Pre-Shabbat services offered Friday, December 11 at 5 pm: Katzman, 760-641-0411 or email online Friday afternoons. Check website Service for Shabbat of Hanukkah and SusanK92253gmail.com. New Members Shabbat. Everyone is TEMPLE SINAI (Reform) for information. Rabbi David Novak encouraged to set up their Hanukkah TEMPLE HAR SHALOM, menorah and light Hanukkah candles 73-251 Hovley Lane West, Idyllwild (951) 468-0004. Palm Desert, CA 92260. www. CHABAD OF PALM DESERT led by Rabbi Richard Zionts,PhD www.templeharshalomidyllwild.org templesinaipd.org 760-568-9699. Rabbi Mendy Friedman and Hanukkah songs led by Cantor Email: templeharshalomofidyllwild@ All services offered via Zoom. Call for information: 760-651-2424. Gole, D.Mus. For Zoom invite email www.chabadpd.com 760-969-2153 / gmail.com. Erev Shabbat Services Connection: https://zoom.us/j/565310 [email protected]. 1739?pwd=Rm5Na1hieERvR3BqUV 760-969-2158 via Zoom the third Friday of each month with Rabbi David Lazar. This JwYWQvR0hxUT09. Friday evening CONGREGATION SHALOM BAYIT services 5:30 pm. Saturday morning CHABAD OF RANCHO MIRAGE (Reform) month’s service December 18 at 6:00 pm. Every other Friday of the month: Torah study 8:45 am; Shabbat Rabbi Shimon Posner Rabbi Kenneth Milhander, 1320 W. morning services 10 am. 72295 Via Marta, Rancho Mirage, CA Williams Ave., Banning, CA 92220. Shabbat Candle Lighting with Rabbi Emerita Malka Drucker at 5:45 pm 92270. www.chabadrm.com Contact 951-392-5380. BIKUR CHOLIM 760-770-7785 “Taste of Shul” Check templeharshalomofidyllwild@ gmail.com for Zoom Address. A project of Chabad of Palm Springs available Fridays on Zoom and DESERT OUTREACH & Desert Communities (Community Facebook live. Check website or call SYNAGOGUE Saturday morning November 21 at 9:30 am : Shabbat study. Contact Outreach) www.BikurCholimPS.com for additional services and classes Rabbi Jules King; Cantor Lori Reisman Rabbi Yankel Kreiman - 760-325- templeharshalomofidyllwild@gmail. being offered. Patterson. 760-449-0111. Mailing 8076, and Rabbi Mendy Kreiman – address: P.O. Box 982, Rancho com for Zoom Address. 760-567-6726. Have you registered the Jewish Federation of the Desert with Amazon Smile as your nonprofit? It couldn’t be easier to register: 1. Go to smile.amazon.com 2. Register Jewish Federation of the Desert as your favorite charity 3. Shop! 4. Bookmark the smile. OF THE DESERT amazon.com page and don’t forget to only shop through this link! 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16 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com Community Calendar of Online Programs - December 2020 Email (preferred) Miriam Bent at [email protected] or call 760-323-0255 to have your events included in the community calendar. Community Calendar of Online Wednesday, December 16 Programs for December 4:30 pm 6th Annual (Virtual) Card Jewish Federation of the Desert: Day Featuring Keynote speaker Dr. Last two online sessions with local Sheri Wise - See ad page 6. Rabbis - Thursday, December 3: 1:00 pm with Rabbi Jules King: Wednesdays: scenes interviews, and powerful songs “L’Hayyim – To Life!” and Tuesday, Sundays: 1:00 pm – Temple Isaiah Virtual and messages of hope. No fee. See December 15: 1:00 pm with Rabbi 11:00 am - Chabad of Palm Springs: “Coffee with the Rabbi” with Rabbi classified ad (page 23) for details. David Lazar: “Hear O Israel” See Virtual Women’s Coffee and Steven Rosenberg. Go to website: page 5 for contact information. Conversation with Chaya Denebeim. templeisaiahps.com and click on link. Monday, December 7 5-7 pm Jewish Family Service 18th Jewish Federation - Women’s Thursdays: Philanthropy: Mondays: Annual Patron Party (Virtual event). 2:00 pm - Chabad of Palm Springs/ 3:30 pm – Chabad of Palm Springs - See ad page 11 Tuesday December 1 Virtual class: “The Mystical Parsha” with Giving Tuesday (Bracelets for Sun City: Virtual class: The Rabbi Baruch (Boz) Werdiger. RSVP to Wednesday, December 9 Special Tzedakah Fund) Note: Prayerbook, with Sussie Denebeim Boz Werdiger, [email protected], or Fundraiser extended through 7:30 pm - Chabad of Palm Springs/ 3:30 pm Har-El virtual lecture: 760-550-5793 Professor Steven Windmueller, PhD. December. See page 13. Sun City: Virtual class: “The Topic: “What’s Next?” See ad page 7. Prophets: Stories that shaped our 7:00 pm – Chabad of Palm Springs/Sun Wednesday, December 2 City: Virtual “Ask the Rabbi” with Rabbi 5:00 pm Solomonov Chanukah history” with Rabbi Baruch (Boz) Yonason Denebeim. Cooking Zoom Class – Werdiger. Email (preferred) Miriam Bent See ad page 2 Sunday, December 6 at [email protected] Tuesdays: 11:00 am (Pacific time) ISRAEL or call 760-323-0255 Wednesday, December 9 7:00 pm – Chabad of Palm Springs/ PHILHARMONIC PRE-HANUKKAH to have your events 11:00 am Discussion on “Am I a GLOBAL CELEBRATION, a Sun City: Virtual class: “Insights for included in the Jewish American or an American virtual, multi-disciplinary program of Jew?” Facilitated by Leslie Pepper Daily Living, from the Torah” with instrumental performances, behind-the- community calendar. Sussie Denebeim. Israel Signs COVID Vaccine Deal Days After Netanyahu Noted How Pfizer CEO is ‘Proud’ of his Jewish Heritage By Ben Sales, JTA Israel’s government has signed Pfizer in part because the company’s vaccine still needs exceptions to Israel’s haredi Orthodox an agreement with the PfizerCEO, Albert Bourla, told Netanyahu to be approved by population, which has experienced pharmaceutical company to acquire 8 he is proud to be Jewish. the Food and Drug particularly high case numbers. million doses of its vaccine. “Albert Bourla is very proud Administration, “We must all continue to keep “This is a great day for the State of of his Greek heritage and of his along with Israel’s the directives and the rules until Israel and a great day on the way to our Jewish heritage, from Thessaloniki,” equivalent agency. the arrival of the vaccines, and even victory over the coronavirus,” Prime Netanyahu said. “After this After keeping its afterwards,” Netanyahu said. “If we Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a conversation, which was very COVID-19 cases continue to work together with the statement November 13, adding that productive and very practical, I’m to a minimum this same caution, responsibility and unity, he is working “to ensure that we will convinced we will complete the spring, Israel began Pfizer CEO we will be among the first in the world receive the vaccine together with the contract with Pfizer.” experiencing record- Albert Bourla to successfully exit the coronavirus leading countries around the world Pfizer announced on November high numbers of crisis.” and that we will not get pushed back 9 that late-stage trials of its vaccine cases in the summer and fall. While Netanyahu said that the vaccine in line.” were more than 90% effective. The the numbers have since gone down, should begin arriving in the country in The announcement came days after pharmaceutical giant is now the leader Netanyahu’s government has been January. Netanyahu said in a video address that among several companies working to criticized for inconsistency in its Israel would be able to sign a deal with develop a vaccine for COVID-19. Its lockdown policies, and for providing JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 17 UAE Ambassador ‘Excited and Optimistic’ about Israel Ties UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba says Middle East divided into extremist and pragmatist camps. By Arutz Sheva Staff United Arab Emirates Ambassador “Having trade, investment, we did with Israel kind of broke to the United States Yousef Al Otaiba research, a joint space program - it’s the ice and broke the taboo. This spoke about the Abraham Accords good for our two countries. As for is no longer impossible. Bahrain and the changing political makeup me, I promised a good friend of and Sudan followed right after, this of the Middle East in an address to mine we’ll visit Israel when the time is not one or two countries doing the online session of the Institute for is right, as soon as Covid is a little something unconventional. This is a National Security Studies (INSS) on more under control & things look trend, a pattern.” November 11. somewhat more normal,” he said, “I was talking to a young gentleman Addressing the growing “We still believe the 2 state from the Economic Department relationship between Israel and solution is the only game in town. in Abu Dhabi and he said they’re the UAE, Ambassador Otaiba said: You need to move forward with this. overwhelmed by the number of UAE Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba “We are optimistic and enthusiastic The Palestinians are not going away. Israeli companies that want to set up about this relationship. I hope At the end of the day - all we can This requires diplomacy and more businesses in Abu Dhabi. I took that Israelis are equally excited to get do is create the space. We’re going importantly willingness and political as a very good sign. to know our people, heritage and to have tough conversations with courage from the leaders to make Addressing the political make-up values - not just our shiny buildings the Israeli government about the compromises and resolve this issue. of the Middle East, Otaiba said that and nice airports.” Palestinians and the Palestinian state. He said that he was proud that “our part of the world is divided the UAE was the first Gulf State to into 2 camps: (1) Turkey, Iran and normalize ties with Israel. “What Qatar that promote radicalization and inject religion into any debate; (2) UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia - who are more focused on a pragmatic approach and their future.” “This is the big fault line in the middle east today, the defining conflict of ideologies. We think our approach is better for us, for our societies and for our kids. There are other countries who just prefer to look backwards and focus on religion and extremism.”

18 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com Dutch Senate Calls to Affirm Jewish Ties to Temple Mount attempts by different factors to erase By Lahav Harkov, The Jerusalem Post the historic connection of over 3,000 On November 10 the Dutch The vote came after the Netherlands also of SGP. years between the Jewish people and Senate passed a motion calling for voted in favor of six out of seven In the ensuing years, there have been Jerusalem,” Gilon stated. the Netherlands to vote against annual UN resolutions concerning numerous parliamentary questions Hague-based Israel advocacy group UN resolutions that use only the Israel in early November, including and calls for the government of the CIDI welcomed the motion, as well, Arabic name for the Temple Mount, “Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Netherlands to act on the motion, but saying that “the Dutch government thus denying Judaism’s connection to Rights of the Palestinian People in it has not done so. should respect [the 2017 motion] its holiest site. the Occupied Palestinian Territory, That the Senate, which rarely tables and act against disproportionate The motion, by Sen. Peter Schalk Including East Jerusalem,” which refers motions on foreign affairs, adopted scheduling of Israel at UN institutions. of the Christian SGP faction, asked to the Temple Mount, Judaism’s a motion calling on the government All members of the UN should receive the government “to vote as much holiest site, only as al-Haram al-Sharif. to change its UN votes can be seen the same, equal treatment. as possible against UN resolutions This is not the first time that as a reprimand to the executive for “The motion adopted now by the referring to the Temple Mount using lawmakers in The Hague called on ignoring a motion from parliament. Senate should be a wake-up call for only the Arabic name ‘al-Haram their government to vote with Israel at Ambassador to the the Dutch ministry of foreign affairs al-Sharif’ and to encourage other the UN. In 2017, the Dutch parliament Netherlands Naor Gilon applauded that it has to truly start working on European Union countries to do the called on the government to come out the motion, which he said “fights the implementing the parliamentary same.” against the disproportionate focus on continuing discrimination towards adopted motion [by] van der Staaij,” The Senate approved the motion Israel at UN institutions. That motion Israel in the UN. CIDI’s statement read. with 50 in favor and 25 opposed. was an initiative of Kees van der Staaij, “This is a clear message against

JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 19 German Think-Tank Survey: Palestinians Prefer Binational State with Jordan if No Statehood Possible By Cody Levine, The Jerusalem Post A new extensive multi-country Authority (84%), Saudi Arabia (88%), preferred for Germans was an Israeli- plurality of Germans (46%) agreed survey released by the German Morocco (90%) and Qatar (85%) Palestinian federation. For citizens of that Israel has the “right to exist” think-tank Konrad-Adenauer- support the creation of such state, the UAE, the most preferred option as the “Nation-State of the Jewish Stiftung on November 11 assessed in contrast to a plurality of Germans was an Israeli-Palestinian federation. people.” A plurality of Bahrainis attitudes from multiple countries on (47%) and Americans (45%) who Among Israelis, the same question asked said they are unsure, while a wide arrange of topics related to support the idea. Likewise, a was posed. A slim plurality of Israelis the vast majority of Palestinians the Middle East, Abraham Accords majority of Israelis (58%) said they (26%) said they would prefer a (76%), Saudis (63%) and Moroccans and Israeli-Palestinian relations, are opposed to the creation of the Palestinian-Jordanian binational (61%) disagreed that Israel has the which was covered in part here. Palestinian state, while 35% support state, followed by Palestinian “right to exist” as the “Nation-State Citizens from multiple countries the idea. remaining under Israeli rule, without of the Jewish people.” A plurality of participated in the survey, hailing Under the assumption that a being given citizenship (24%), the Qataris also disagreed. from Israel, the United Arab Palestinian state is not possible, same amount of whom said they When rephrased as simply a “right Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, the respondents were asked alternative are unsure, an Israeli-Palestinian to exist,” the results remain largely Palestinian Authority, Saudi Arabia, options. A plurality of respondents binational state (17%) and Israeli- unchanged, with clear majorities in Qatar, Morocco, United States and in Bahrain (50%), Palestinian Palestinian federation (9%). the UAE, US and Germany agreeing, Germany, focusing numerous topics Authority (47%), Saudi Arabia A question of importance to and the majority of citizens of the such as Israel’s status as a Jewish (37%), Morocco (47%), Germany Israelis, survey respondents were Palestinian Authority, Saudi Arabia, state, a future Palestinian state and (42%) and the US (44%) said they asked whether Israel has the “right to Morocco and Qatar disagreeing, views on the US election. are unsure. Interestingly, the second exist,” and the “right to exist” as the with a slight rise in support in each On the question of a future most preferred option among the “Nation-State of the Jewish people.” country in favor of Israel’s “right to Palestinian state, a clear Palestinians, Moroccans, Qataris and As expected, a vast of majority of ex ist .” majority of citizens of the UAE Saudis was a binational Palestinian- Israelis (81%), in addition to Emiratis (81%), Bahrain (72%), Palestinian Jordan state, while the second most (61%), Americans (69%) and a Morocco Warmly Praised for National School Curriculum Teaching Judaism By Algemeiner Staff Morocco has introduced a Dhakira is described as a “spiritual proud history of tolerance, component covering its storied and heritage space” for Moroccan including Morocco’s philosemitism, Jewish community into the national Judaism that is based in the historic is an inoculation against extremism,” curriculum for school students, Jewish quarter in the city of the statement remarked. “We hope earning praise from Jewish leaders Essaouria. other countries take note and for the North African nation’s “After almost 14 years of emulate the Kingdom’s exceptional positive approach to pluralism. hard work, determination and The Moroccan city of Essaouira was home to example.” A statement in early November perseverance, Moroccan Judaism a historic Jewish community Morocco has taken several Sephardi Federation and Malcolm from the Association Mimouna — has finally made it to the Moroccan steps in recent years to embrace Hoenlein of the Conference of a Moroccan NGO that promotes educational system,” the Association its Jewish culture and history into Presidents of Major American Jewish awareness of the country’s Jewish Mimouna said. school studies, including a course Organizations emphasized that culture — explained that the On November 5, two US Jewish on the Nazi Holocaust that was the curriculum had been “released curriculum for primary school leaders warmly praised King incorporated in 2018. without outside prompting or students focuses “on the Hebraic/ Mohammed VI of Morocco for Almost 500,000 Jews of Moroccan fanfare in the Western press, a Jewish cultural component his commitment “to perpetuate origin — the vast majority — testament to this development enshrined in the constitution, the the Judeo-Moroccan legacy as presently live in Israel. The size of the being a genuine expression of historical royal visit to Bayt Dhakira an integral part of the Moroccan community in Morocco is currently Moroccan values.” and a short glimpse of the history of identity.” estimated at 2,500. “Ensuring Moroccan students Moroccan Jews.” In a joint statement, learn about the totality of their Inaugurated last January, Bayt Jason Guberman of the American 20 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com Israel’s Navy to Receive First German-made Sa’ar 6 Ship cyber and electronic warfare systems and ELTA’s EL/M-2248 MF-STAR One of four Sa’ar 6 ships currently being made for the IDF will be arriving in Israel in early December. By Tamar Beeri, The Jerusalem Post active electronically scanned array The first of the new missile ships set and therefore the Navy decided to go radar capable of tracking both air and to defend Israel’s shores and strategic forth first and foremost with the Sa’ar surface targets. sites will arrive in early December, after 6. As the EEZ spans over a far larger it was handed over to the Navy from Part of the need for the ship is due to space than the land of Israel as a the Thyssenkrup Marine shipyards in threats to Israel’s natural gas reservoirs whole, the Sa’ar 6 allows the Navy Germany. along its border. Approximately 70% to dominate a larger space and The first of four new Sa’ar 6 ships, of Israel’s electricity today is produced provide a protective shield around built in Germany by ThyssenKrupp from natural gas and is expected Israel’s borders. In addition, the ship Israel Navy’s new Sa’ar 6-class is capable of staying out at sea for an Marine Systems in conjunction with to grow overtime, so its continued corvette warship extended period of time in order to the needs of the IDF, will be named accessibility is crucial. unique capabilities intended to provide a more extensive period of “INS Magen,” and is intended to However, the gas rigs are a strategic handle such threats. It has numerous protection in the more vulnerable protect the Exclusive Economic Zone target for the country’s enemies. communications systems operated by regions of the EEZ. (EEZ) in Israel’s Mediterranean Sea. Assault ships such as the Sa’ar 6 are the IDF in order to communicate with The ships will additionally be armed It is also intended to be capable of ideal for defense of these strategic a handful of units and branches of the with the means for detecting aerial facing asymmetric battle methods spots. army, as well as an Anti-Ballistic Missile and field targets, allowing the Sa’ar 6 facing the Navy from land, having Just north of the border, Hezbollah (ABM) system and radar-based steep- to face a wide range of threats. It can been “tailor-made” for the threats has an estimated arsenal of 130,000- shot shooting interception. The goal also carry a Sea-Hawk helicopter. facing the country. 150,000 missiles and rockets, the of these is to defend the country’s Command over the ship was majority of them facing Israel’s maritime borders from Tactical Missile Anna Ahronheim contributed to this report. officially transferred on October 29 civilian home front and strategic Systems (TMS) which the country’s from Germany to Israel. In the first infrastructure. enemies apparently possess. few weeks after the Navy receives One such missile, the advanced “It’s a larger vessel with advanced the ships, they will perform numerous anti-ship Russian-made Yakhont (P- and hi-tech systems along with long- exercise cruises intended to allow 800 Oniks), represents a serious range missiles, air-to-air, surface, and the teams to practice on the new threat and can endanger both Israeli sea-to-air missiles. The radar is bigger equipment. It will anchor in several commercial vessels in Israeli shipping and more advanced than what is on ports along the way in order to lanes and Israel’s gas rigs. Also at risk the Sa’ar 5. With a further range, you replenish supplies. are the navy ships that operate in the can operate the Sa’ar 6 in open seas The Sa’ar 6-class corvette is a class area. and in rough sea conditions,” said Rear of warships initially ordered for Israel’s In May of last year, during a violent Admiral Eyal Harel, the head of IDF Navy in 2015. Similar to the German round that saw Hamas and Palestinian naval operations. Braunschweig-class corvette, the Sa’ar Islamic Jihad launch 690 rockets and The Sa’ar 6 will be fitted with two 6 can accommodate an array of Israeli mortars toward Israel over the span naval Iron Dome short-range defense sensors and missiles such as the Iron of less than 48 hours, Energy Minister missile launchers with 20 Tamir Dome defense system and a handful Yuval Steinitz ordered the suspension missiles for each launcher, 32 vertical of Electronic Warfare (EW) devices by of natural gas supplies from the Tamar launch cells for the Barak-8 long-range Israel’s Elbit Systems. field, over concerns that it could be surface-to-air missile naval defense The ship will arrive from Germany to targeted. system, and 16 anti-ship missiles. Israel without these defense supplies Hezbollah’s secretary-general The ships, in addition to having and will be equipped upon arriving Hassan Nasrallah has made it clear that interception missile defense systems, in the country. The IDF will need to the gas rigs are targets for the group will also have 16 anti-ship missiles, make the ship fully operational within should another war with Israel break one 76-mm. Oto Melara Super a year and a half. out, and according to Harel, “when Rapid main gun, two Typhoon 25- Despite there being numerous Hezbollah has nothing left to lose, and mm. remote weapon stations and underwater and otherwise difficult they have their back against the wall, two 324-mm. torpedo launchers for threats that are not on land, the threats they will try to hit the Karish.” Mark 54 Lightweight Torpedoes. on land are currently the most critical The Sa’ar 6 has a handful of Each ship will also be outfitted with JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com • 21 Have A Nosh With Miriam Chanukah begins the evening of December 10th, and a great excuse to pull out the large frying pan and make latkes. The traditional recipe is always a winner, but the other two remind us of the many creative and delicious options possible. Wishing you a happy Chanukah! M.H.B. CRISPY TRADITIONAL POTATO LATKES 2 lbs. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes Salt & pepper to taste 1 medium onion Vegetable oil for frying ½ cup chopped scallions (green onions) 2 large eggs, beaten Peel potatoes and drop in cold water until all are peeled. Using a grater or food pro- cessor, coarsely grate the potatoes and onion. Place together in a fine-mesh strainer and press out all the water over a bowl. The potato starch will settle to the bottom. Carefully pour off the water and retain the potato starch, adding it to the potato/onion mixture in a bowl. Add the scallions, eggs, salt and pepper. Mix well.

Heat a thin film of oil in a non-stick frying pan. Use about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture per latke and add to pan, flattening the mixture out with the back of the spoon or spatula. Fry until golden then flip and brown second side. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately, traditionally with sour cream or applesauce. Makes 24-28 latkes. YAM & CRYSTALLIZED GINGER LATKES 1 egg 2 medium yams (about 1 lb.), ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice peeled & grated ½ teaspoon salt 1 small onion, grated 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1½ teaspoons flour 2 Tablespoons minced crystallized ginger 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1½ Tablespoons honey 1/4 to 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1/3 cup sour cream or chunky applesauce In a large bowl, combine egg, lemon juice, salt and pepper and beat until well blended. Add ginger, honey and garlic and mix well. Stir in grated yams and onion. Sprinkle flour DESERT HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL and baking powder over yam mixture, mixing well. In a large frying pan, over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons oil. Drop tablespoons of mixture into the hot oil and flatten with back of a spoon. Cook, turning once, until golden on both sides, about 5 minutes total. Drain on paper towels and keep warm in a low oven until all batter has been made into latkes. Serve warm, with sour cream and/or applesauce. May be made ahead and refrigerated up to two days. To heat, place in a single layer on a cookie sheet in a 450̊ oven for five minutes, or until heated through. Makes 24-30 mini latkes. APPETIZER CORN CAKE LATKES WITH GUACAMOLE 1½ cups corn kernels, preferably fresh 2 egg yolks ⅓ cup cornmeal 2 Tbsp. chives ½ cup milk ½ teaspoon each salt & pepper ⅓ cup flour 1 Tbsp. oil 4 Tbsp. melted unsalted butter ½ cup clarified unsalted butter 2 eggs ¾ cup of your favorite guacamole recipe Roughly chop the corn kernels by hand or with a few quick bursts in food processor until a chunky but creamy consistency is reached. Place in a large bowl and whisk in the cornmeal, milk and flour until no lumps remain. In a separate bowl combine the 4 The Desert Holocaust Memorial is located in the Tbsp. melted butter, eggs and egg yolks. Stir in the corn mixture, add the chives and season with salt and pepper. Heat a large saucepan to medium high heat. Pour in the Palm Desert Civic Center Park at San Pablo Avenue & Fred Waring oil and half cup clarified butter. Using a ladle, make dollar size corn latkes, frying them Drive. Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit this moving approximately 2 minutes per side. Keep hot in a warm oven. Serve with a dollop of memorial, a place of remembrance and monument of hope. guacamole on top. Makes about 20 appetizer size latkes.

22 • JCN • December 2020 • Kislev/Tevet 5781 • www.jfedps.com great grandfather on whose birthday Simchas he was born!) in Palm Springs on We Mourn the Passing of... October 30. Delighted grandparents Mazel tov to Rabbi Shimon and are Rabbi Yonason and Sussie Chuck Cohen, Paula Koster, Shelly Rosenberg and Garrett ‘Yossele’ Chaya Posner on the Bar Mitzvah of Denebeim and Arkie and Chaya Stern. Our deepest sympathies to their families and friends. May their their youngest son, Shlomo Aharon, Engle ... Our apologies to Jordana memories endure as a blessing. on Shabbat Vayishlach December 5 ... Pepper for using the wrong word to We now have the name of Chana’le describe her recent accomplishment PERSONAL ASSISTANT/ (nee Posner) and Dovber Dechter’s Classifieds towards her doctorate in Forensic PERSONAL AFFAIRS MANAGER daughter - Risya - and the happy news Clinical Psychology. We erroneously Excellent local references. for the Posners is that the Dechters referred to her defending her “thesis” PERSONAL ASSISTANT: Bill paying, reconcile bank will be moving to downtown Phoenix Light office work, helping in (which implies a Masters’ Degree), not statement, run errands, drive to in the next few weeks to start a new kitchen, driving, running errands. “dissertation” (Ph.D.). After the years appointment. Computer help: Chabad Center there; bringing them Approximately 3-4 days; amounting of work she deserves our listing the MS Office, QuickBooks, emails. much closer than their current home to 12 to 15 hours a week. Must have correct accomplishment. Share your Notary. 2 hours minimum. in New York ...Mazel tov to Aliza simchas with us. Call (760-323-0255) references. Submit resume to Bruce Landgarten, Jewish Federation CEO Trustworthy, discreet, dependable. and Mendy Denebeim on the birth or email Miriam Bent: mhbentjcn@ at [email protected]. 760-408-5260. of their son Sholom (named for his earthlink.net. THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE Candle Lighting Times Swedish, deep tissue, and foot SUPPORTERS welcomed. reflexology modalities. Treat Friday, December 4 Shabbat Vayishlach 3:54 pm JFS has rewarding volunteer opportunities in its community yourself or someone you love to Friday, December 11 Shabbat Vayeshev 3:55 pm programs and is now accepting a wonderful therapeutic massage. Friday, December 18 Shabbat Miketz 3:57 pm applications for several positions. Jewish Massage Therapist with over Friday, December 25 Shabbat Vayigash 4:01 pm Tribute cards provide a unique 30 years experience; nine in the way to celebrate a special occasion desert. Will come to your home or honor a loved one, all while or at my location. Call Leora at supporting JFS programs. If 760-778-0068. you’re interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities or Congregation Har-El offers a week- supporting JFS through the purchase day program, Monday through of tribute cards, please contact Thursday, “ASK THE RABBI.” Over 760-325-4088 ext. 101. 450 people read, comment and THE ISRAEL PHILHARMONIC submit questions. Your participation PRE-HANUKKAH GLOBAL is welcome. To ask a questions or to CELEBRATION December 6, 2020 request to be on the email list, email / 11 AM PST / 2 PM EST / 9 PM IST. [email protected]. In the last You’re invited to a virtual, multi- 6 months, over 136 questions have disciplinary program of instrumental been answered by Rabbi Richard performances, behind-the-scenes Zionts, Ph.D. NO FEE. interviews, and powerful songs and messages of hope. Featuring Academy Sisterhood of Temple Isaiah BIG Award-winning composer Hans CLEARANCE SALE of Judaica Zimmer, Israel Philharmonic Music from Jewel of the Desert Gift Shop. Director Lahav Shani and orchestra musicians, and special celebrity Up to 40% off selected items. Shop guests. The event is accessible to all staffed Tuesday and Thursday from and completely free of charge. RSVP 2-4 PM, or call Melanie Garver for today at www.AFIPO.org an appointment, 817-422-2547.

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