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Andrew Alberts has a unique way to show his Jewish pride on the field
Rabbi Michael Beyo’s new book traces the worship of death over the living across 4,000 years
OCTOBER 2, 2026 | TISHREI 21, 5787 | VOLUME 79, NUMBER 2
Arizona resident reunites with longlost uncle, inspires new rendition of famous Jewish song JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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obin Meyerson, an Arizona resident and activist who heads The Shabbat Project North America and is the volunteer founder of the Meis Mitzvah Project, recently reunited with an uncle she had not seen in 26 years, and that reunion led to a new rendition of “Minyan Man,” a classic Jewish song composed by Victor Shine more than 40 years ago. “I have spent so much of my life trying to help Jews reconnect with their heritage through Shabbat,” Meyerson said. “I thought this journey was simply about making sure one elderly Jewish man would someday have the dignity of a Jewish burial. Instead, God showed me that the mitzvah was also about life. We found an uncle, reunited a family and helped a Jewish soul reconnect with his heritage.” Meyerson’s family moved from England to Australia during World War II, and when many family members later moved to America, her uncle, Donald Lewis, stayed in Australia. He eventually moved to America, splitting his time between Las Vegas and a houseboat in California. Meyerson said the family lost touch with him for various reasons, including geographical distance, time and lifestyle differences. “Despite those differences, we’re all family, and we should try whatever we can to stay connected,” she said. A few months ago, a distant cousin was working on a family genealogy tree, and she reached out to Meyerson to confirm certain connections. SEE REUNION, PAGE 2
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Wexner Heritage Program returns to Phoenix, building a new generation of Jewish leaders MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR
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fter more than a 15-year absence, the Wexner Heritage Program (WHP) returns to Phoenix in 2027, offering a new generation of Jewish community members a two-year program of intensive Jewish lear ning and leadership development. T h e W H P, w h i c h previously had participants from the Greater Phoenix area in 1994 and 2009, is designed for Jewish lay leaders generally between the ages of 30 and 45. For its newest iteration, the WHP is seeking participants from across the Jewish community, SEE WEXNER, PAGE 3
The Wexner Heritage Program participants from the 2009-2011 cohort finished their program with a trip to Israel. Front row, from left: Doug Passon, Jennifer Rawicz, Marc Lerner, Kimberly Kur, Jennifer Schwarz and Alison Betts. Second row: Halle Farber, Alison Feinberg, Julie Silverstein, Lisa Pinkus, Paulina Morris, Erika Neuberg, Jason Israel and Virginie Polster. Back row: Jay Stein, Robert Kessler, Eddie Lange, Bryan Kort, Adam Schwartz and Tim Eckstein. COURTESY OF ALISON FEINBERG
Think dental health is just about your teeth? Think again. Dental care belongs in the conversation with your doctor because your mouth isn’t separate from the rest of your body. See page 9. PHOTO COURTESY OF LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS – STOCK.ADOBE.COM
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about her Judaism with her fellow council SOPHIE STERN CONTINUED FROMlater PAGE 1 members and speaking out for her rights by Victor Shine and popularized by CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 and beliefs. Shlock Rock frontman Lenny Solomon, about her Judaism with her fellow council SOPHIE STERN Jon Meyers, director ofseeking ADDPC. She already has some practice at aboutsaid nine Jewish men in Mobile CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 members and speaking out for her rights “Our hope is to create and promote “I told her that I don’t honestly care a tenth advocating for herself. man to make a minyan on beliefs. opportunities for people to be embraced, and about all the past bubbies and zadies Shabbat. “One time, I was in class and someone said Jon Meyers, director of ADDPC. She already has some practice at from 300 years ago, but I don’t know become part of the community and find me the R-word and I told him not Henya“Our Storch, and and mutual hopea isnurse to create promote called advocating for herself. where my Uncle Donald is and, with your friend equitable opportunities wherever they to. The teacher was in the hallway and of Meyerson and Solomon, opportunities for people to be embraced, “One time, I was in class and someone genealogy expertise, can you help find envisioned might live,” he said. another student repeated the word,” she bringing them together in become part of the community and find called me the R-word and I told him not him? That spurred her into action, and Mobile Meyers first came to know Stern said. Rather than letting situation go, for a celebration of Jewish family, equitable opportunities wherever they to. The teacher was in the the hallway and within 24 hours, they had found Donald’s discovery through her mother, Amy Silverman, who she told her theater teacher, who was able and connection. might live,” he said. another student repeated the word,” she step-granddaughter on Facebook.” read herreached personalout essays about raising a to intervene. Meyerson to Solomon, Meyers first came to know Stern said. Rather than letting the situation go, Lewis was over 90 and lived at Gordon who lives daughter with Down syndrometoonbeKJZZ, “If someone has a disability, saying in Israel but happened through her mother, Amy Silverman, who she her theater teacher, who was able Oaks Senior Living Community in in America National Public Radio’s Phoenix affiliate the told R-word is like saying the F-word,” at the time, and invited him read her personal essays about raising a to intervene. Mobile, Alabama. station. to Mobile. Despite song being setoninKJZZ, Stern said. daughter with the Down syndrome “If someone has a disability, saying The Meis Mitzvah Project works to Mobile,Meyers washad so captivated bythere the essays While performing in the musical Solomon never National Public Radio’sbeen Phoenix affiliate the R-word is like saying the F-word,” ensure dignified Jewish burials for Jews before. that he reached out to Silverman, and the “Hairspray,” she had another occasion station. Stern said. who might otherwise lack the necessary two became friends. to tangle with the offensive word, which The owners of the nursing home Meyers was so captivated by the essays While performing in the musical resources or surviving family members, happened That’s how Stern first learned of the appears in the script. to be Jewish, so they arranged that he reached out to Silverman, and the “Hairspray,” she had another occasion Sophie Stern at her high school graduation in 2022 so Meyerson’s initial goal in reconnecting a timeopen council seat, but there’s no doubt COURTESY OF SOPHIE STERN “That’s really bad and my friend said for Solomon to visit and play songs two became friends. to tangle with the offensive word, which with her uncle was to advocate for him to for the sheresidents, earned her position, Meyers said. it on stage. I was not OK with that, so I and it was there that That’s how Stern first learned of the appears in the script. Heart Can’t Even Believe It: A Story of have a traditional Jewish burial when he the updated To become a of council member, Stern went to the director and told her it was Sophie Stern at her high school graduation in 2022 versionseat, “Minyan Man” open council but there’s no doubt COURTESY OF SOPHIE STERN “That’s really bad and my friend said Science, Love and Down Syndrome,” eventually passed away. hadwith to apply andverse. demonstrate that she had a bad word for people with disabilities, Silverman’s book about her daughter. debuted a new she earned her position, Meyers said. it on stage. I was not OK with that, so I Heart Can’t Even Believe It: A Story of She contacted Rabbi Yosef Goldwasser something valuable to contribute, he said. but she wouldn’t take it out,” Stern said. “I am incredibly to member, return to To become excited a council Stern went Gesher’s speakers’ bureau, Damon to the director and told her it was When at Chabad of Mobile to discuss Jewish Alabama“She’s on the council because she She let her mother know about the Science, Love and Down Syndrome,” and record this third rendition had to apply and demonstrate that she had Brooks & Associates, was asked to find a bad for people with disabilities, burial arrangements, and the rabbi of thedeserves Standing, fromword left: they Robin Meyerson, son to be on said. the council,” he said. Silverman’s book about her daughter. conflict and were able her to convince story,” Solomon “When this something valuable to contribute, he said. she wouldn’t take it out,” Stern said. a speaker about Down syndrome for an Azriel Meyerson, Lenny Solomon and Rabbi secured a visit with Lewis to help him story Stern is sung, creating a oflife career a but director of the need to remove the When Gesher’s speakers’ bureau, Damon was“She’s first us and could have asshe Yosef the Goldwasser. Seated: Donald Lewis. on none the council because She let her mother know about the event this spring, Hummell first asked put on tefillin. After many years, he still imagined member of her community, which makes COURTESY OFword ROBIN MEYERSON Brooks & Associates, was asked to find from the script. that decades later a real family deserves to be on the council,” he said. conflict and they were able to convince Silverman to speak, thinking Stern might remembered how to do it, wrapping wouldher a great addition. a speaker about Down syndrome for an “My friend Al was next to me when give us an opportunity to add now,of shethe gotneed to reconnect Stern is creating a life and career asheritage, a the and director to remove the be too young. the tefillin and reciting the blessings. another Stern graduated McClintock I told the director and he gave me the event this spring, Hummell first asked chapter. time,from a Jewish manmakes with her own family. member of This her community, which word from the script. They decided instead that Stern should Goldwasser has visited again since then, was found. High There Schoolisina minyan Tempe last year and now“I biggest hug and said he loved Silverman to speak, thinking Stern might in Mobile!” thought myever mission wasthat about her a great addition. “My friend Al was next to me when tell her own story; it’s a real bonus that bringing challah for Shabbat. Glendale Community College, me so much,” Stern said. Sadly, Al died Theattends updated song includes the following be too young. bringing other Jews closer and to Shabbat and Stern graduated from McClintock I told the director he gave me the she is not afraid of public speaking. “Our responsibility is to meet every lyrics with a focus ontodance. She is a regular in asure car Jews crash who on Oct. 24,otherwise 2021. that stood out Meyerson: They decided instead that Stern should making might High School in Tempe last year and now biggest hug ever and said that he loved “It’s not the same when someone Jew where he is and remind him that he performer at Detour Company Theatre, “That was hard; it’s very hard to get “I finally understood what those nine tell own story; it’s a real bonus that be forgotten receive Stern a dignified Jewish attends Glendale Community College, me so much,” said. Sadly, Al died tries her to tell a person’s story for them,” remains an essential part of the Jewish men had a Scottsdale theatre company for adults emotions out and I was very, very upset,” shown she is not afraid of public speaking. burial,” “Donald taught with a focus on dance. She is a regular in Meyerson a car crash said. on Oct. 24, 2021. people,” Goldwasser said. “Sometimes Hummell said. with intellectual, developmental and she said. That wherever a Jew goes, he’s never “It’s not the same when someone me that “That my own family be part performer at Detour Company Theatre, was hard;has it’stovery hardofto get the simplest mitzvah can awaken a alone.physical Additionally, helping people with disabilities. On the recent anniversary of his death, tries to tell a person’s story for them,” that mission.” a Scottsdale theatre company for adults emotions out and I was very, very upset,” disabilities connection that has been waiting many jobs was one of the reasons In fact, when attended her firstS h eStern made aFcake and took iteto the Hummell find Thewith nine men areStern gone, but their a d d e d , “ a m i l i e s c a n g t said. intellectual, developmental and she said. years to be expressed.” for acquiring the bureau. Unemployment council meeting in January, she couldn’t crash site. minyan lives on, disconnected byrecent time, anniversary space, continents, helping people with physical disabilities. On the of his death, in Additionally, Meyerson began this journey with the the disability community is upwards to tell people of her involvement with “I belief don’tsystems know how Ivalues, did it yet without disabilities Andwait Shabbos still carries usattended all along.” different and find jobs one of the reasons In fact, when Stern her first Stern made a cake and took it to the of 75% and of that was hope that Judaism could provide some percentage, 75% are Detour and share information about we its should crying. I’m give so proud of myself,” she said. for acquiring the bureau. Lewis’ discovery led to his reconnection never up and always love Unemployment council meeting in January, she couldn’t crash site. dignity for her uncle after *Best death,of but it with upcoming Magazine willing and able to work — but shows. Amyand Hummell, executive before director of ready, his daughter in Australia and his with our family try to reconnect in the disability community is upwards wait to tell people of her involvement *AnnualtheDirectory “I don’t know how I did it without haven’t been given ended up bringing Jewish connection younger“There’s opportunity, no question that shehad is going Gesher Disability Resources, agreed that of 75% and of that percentage, sister living in Arizona who JN it’s too late.” **Annual Directory 75% are Detour and share information about its crying. I’m so proud of myself,” she said. back into his life. said. **Best of Magazine to thrive,” Meyers “She’s wondered for many years said. whether her very Stern is a good fit for ADDPC because Hummell *Best of Magazine ready, willing and able to work — but upcoming shows. Amy Hummell, executive director of When she told her children that brother To watch a documentary on this event, “Minyan “People have it in them to speak up but gregarious and passionate about the of her ability to self-advocate. was still alive. haven’t been given the opportunity, “There’s no question that she is going GesherHome: Disability Resources, agreed that Man Comes Shlock Rock’s Historic Directory her uncle had been found**Annual in Mobile, matter to her.”Pr oject, Return toHummell co-hosted a book event don’t know how, and often they’re not oughthat The Shabbat WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM Thrthings Mobile, to thrive,” Meyers said. “She’s very Stern is aAlabama,” good fitvisit for youtube.com/ ADDPC because Hummell said. Meyerson’s daughter-in-law started Meyerson cheered on. Sophie has family support with Meyers a few years ago for “MyWWW.JEWISHAZ.COM Stern forward sharing insights haslooks spent years to encouraging zVG_iWpDl5g. “People have it in them to speak up but and passionate about the of her ability to self-advocate. singing the song “Minyan Man,” written Jewishgregarious families to reconnect with their don’t know how, and often they’re not things that matter to her.” Hummell co-hosted a book event WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM OFFICE HOURS has family support Stern looks forward to sharing insights with Meyers a few years ago for “My cheered on. Sophie HEADLINES ...........................................2 HEADLINES REUNION
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from those who are extremely involved to those with little connection to the organized Jewish world. As of Jan. 1, 2027, the WHP will operate under the auspices of Sulam: The North American Jewish Leadership Network, a new, independent nonprofit organization. An organizational update on The Wexner Foundation’s website stated, “Sulam’s mission will continue the tradition of excellence in leadership development that has been the hallmark of the Wexner leadership initiatives for decades.” Rabbi David Russo, director of the WHP, said the goal is to identify smart, driven, innovative, kind, thoughtful and curious Jewish leaders interested in shaping the future of Jewish life in the Valley — “People who want to learn about Jewish tradition and figure out how Jewish tradition and learning about the Jewish past speaks to the Jewish present, so that we can build a stronger Jewish future.” Over the course of the two-year program, WHP members will attend 36 evening seminars locally and participate in three out-of-town summer institutes that are held in resort conference centers in the United States and Israel. “In partnership with the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix (CJP), we (CJP and WHP equally) fully underwrite all of the costs, including flights and all of the experiences,” said Russo. “In exchange, we hope that people will commit to being both a full participant in the program and to making great systemic change in their community for years, and decades, to come.” The 2027 Phoenix cohort will be one of three new cohorts beginning that year, along with groups in Washington, D.C., and Broward County, Florida. According to Russo, approximately 75% of the Wexner Heritage experience focuses on intensive Jewish learning. The program also incorporates contemporary leadership development and discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing Jewish communities. Participants come from a range of Jewish backgrounds and are not expected to have a particular level of Jewish education or communal experience. Alison Betts, who participated in the second Phoenix cohort beginning in 2009 and is the alumni representative for Phoenix, said that distinction was par ticularly impor tant in her own experience. Betts entered the program without the extensive Jewish educational background that some of her fellow participants had. “They had all gone to Jewish day schools or Jewish sleepaway camp and they had all been through a bar or bat mitzvah — experiences that I just didn’t have going in,” she said. JEWISHAZ.COM
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Betts said the WHP completely transformed her understanding of the importance of Jewish communal involvement. “It’s not just about being a leader or being at the table for all our organizations, it’s about being present for Jews in the community and meeting them where they’re at, in any way that’s meaningful for them,” she said. “I would never have gotten that without Wexner. It just wouldn’t have clicked into place for me the way that it did.” Her most significant takeaway, she said, was learning how to lead while remaining anchored in Jewish values. The program also provided her with relationships that extended beyond her cohort. “The professionals in our community who worked with us over the course of our two years of learning together; those relationships have been huge for me,” she said. WHP participants also connect with alumni and other cohorts throughout North America, creating a network that can continue long after the formal program ends. “I feel like the tentacles of Wexner spread far and wide throughout the North American Jewish community,” she said. That broader network helped her learn how Jewish leaders in other communities and organizations approach leadership. One of the program’s goals is to bring together people who might not otherwise meet. Russo said organizers are looking for participants from across the religious spectrum — Orthodox, Conservative, Reform and unaffiliated — including
people who may eventually serve as synagogue or organizational leaders, as well as those whose leadership may emerge in less traditional ways. Betts said identifying those individuals will be particularly important in Phoenix. She pointed to Jewish communities throughout the Valley that may not always be represented in the city’s traditional Jewish leadership circles, including those in the East and West Valleys and groups such as the Bukharian and Chabad communities. “Wexner isn’t designed to teach you how to lead at federation or Jewish National Fund,” Betts said. “It’s designed to teach you how to lead back in your own Jewish life where your community thrives.” For Richard Kasper, CEO of CJP, who participated in the first Phoenix cohort, the experience eventually contributed to his decision to leave private legal practice and pursue Jewish communal work, although he does not attribute that career change solely to WHP. Kasper was 31 and had lived in Phoenix for about three years when he entered the program. At the time, he was a young lawyer and was already volunteering in the Jewish community. After being selected, he said his visibility within the community increased. Organizations began approaching him to serve on committees, work on projects and join boards. But he said the program’s impact went beyond those opportunities. “It helped me build a network of peers who were also in the program and connected me to all of them and what they
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were doing in the Jewish community,” he said. “On another level, it provided me a lot of educational foundation so that I had a much deeper understanding of Jewish history, philosophy, culture, thought — all the pieces that go into answering the question, ‘What does it mean to be Jewish?’” He hopes that the people who are chosen for the next cohort receive that same learning that he received, “that provides you with that solid footing so that when you are asked to participate in decision making on behalf of the Jewish community, it is truly rooted in what is Jewish.” The program’s alumni have gone on to participate in a range of Jewish community initiatives. In Phoenix, Kasper and Betts both cited the development of PJ Library as one example of alumni involvement in strengthening Jewish life locally. Betts, who helped establish PJ Library in Phoenix, said the leadership skills she developed through Wexner have also carried into her professional life. She is an executive at American Express and serves as executive sponsor of the company’s Jewish employee network in Phoenix. For Russo, those varied outcomes are
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Mt Sinai Cemetery Contact: Please send resume to Ira Mann, at ira@mtsinaicemetery.com. Description: Mt Sinai is looking for a Family Sales Counselor. The position requires meeting with families or individuals who wish to make end of life arrangements. Familiarity with Jewish customs is helpful; being motivated, having compassion, and an attention to detail are essential. Phone work, follow-up, and building connections with clients is the key to success.
part of the program’s design. “We don’t know what the Phoenix cohort is going to do,” he said. “I imagine for the people who are poised to be leaders in their synagogues, they’re going to be more collaborative, think less in silos and that will make their synagogue stronger; and for people who are starting up a new organization, they’re going to say, ‘How do I create a startup that’s going to challenge the current institutional norms in our community?’” He said past WHP alumni have created or strengthened organizations and initiatives in other communities, including Jewish day schools and Jewish summer camps. Bringing WHP back to Phoenix has been several years in the making. The effort began after the formation of CJP, through a merger of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix and the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, when leadership development was identified as a community priority. “I approached the board with the suggestion that we not only bring back the Wexner Heritage Program for this community, but that we do it in a way that would be sustainable through the creation of an endowment,” said Kasper. The goal is an endowment of approximately $1 million. Kasper said the community has nearly reached that goal and expects the fund to continue growing through additional contributions and investments. The long-term objective is to offer the program in Phoenix approximately every seven to 10 years, creating a continuing pipeline of Jewish lay leaders rather than leaving almost an entire generation without the opportunity. Among those who contributed to the effort are Judy Mallin Gardenswartz, who made the gift in honor of her grandparents and parents, Sol and Sylvia Mallin, and Edward Zachary, who wanted to set up an endowment fund in memory of his late wife, Lois. For Gardenswartz, supporting the
“WEXNER ISN’T DESIGNED TO TEACH YOU HOW TO LEAD AT FEDERATION OR JNF. IT’S DESIGNED TO TEACH YOU HOW TO LEAD BACK IN YOUR OWN JEWISH LIFE WHERE YOUR COMMUNITY THRIVES.” ALISON BETTS
return of the WHP is rooted in a lifelong family commitment to Jewish education that began with her grandmother, an Eastern European refugee who, after arriving in New York, went door to door in her tenement building encouraging Jewish families to make sure their children received a Jewish education. Gardenswartz’s mother continued that tradition, teaching Hebrew school at Beth El Phoenix for 30 years. “Jewish education has been like the history of my family,” she said. “That was just in my blood.” While raising her children in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gardenswartz established a Jewish preschool and later founded a Jewish day school. She also helped develop a Jewish community center, believing that Jewish education and communal spaces were essential to helping young people develop a strong Jewish identity. Years later, she saw the impact of Jewish leadership education firsthand when her daughter, Rena Dulberg, was selected for the WHP in Colorado. “Aside from Jewish summer camp, Rena went to Camp Ramah, she told me Wexner was one of the experiences that had impacted her most as an adult,” said Gardenswartz. “I’m hoping that it will increase the number of leaders the Jewish community is able to produce in the future because they’ll be able to do it (WHP) more often,” she said. For Zachary, creating an endowment for WHP in his late wife’s name seemed like the perfect way to memorialize her. Dr. Lois Zachary was an internationally recognized expert on mentoring and leadership. Her work was often mentioned
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in The New York Times, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, Inc. magazine and other business and leadership news outlets. She published several books, and two of them are used as part of leadership training at the WHP. The couple were familiar with the WHP when they moved to Arizona in the mid-1990s and became friends with participants from both cohorts. Zachary said the Jewish community was much smaller when they first moved to the Valley, but today it ranks 10th largest in the country. “We need this pool of leadership that we don’t have,” he said. “We’re not like Baltimore, Detroit, Boston and Chicago where there are multi-generational families with leadership built in — it’s just not where we are.” He said the funnel of Jewish leadership in the Valley has gaps, and bringing WHP back will help fill those. “That’s what this (WHP) is all about,” he said. “Creating an ongoing, tremendous, trained, committed, educated pool of leaders.” Nominations for the 2027 Phoenix cohort are open through Oct. 22, and individuals may nominate themselves or someone else. The selection process is competitive, but Betts said potential applicants should not be intimidated by the Wexner name or think of it as something elite or unattainable. “It’s the people who most want to learn, grow and lead who are best suited for (WHP), and what they’re equipped with today does not matter,” she said. “Don’t allow imposter syndrome to steer you away from an opportunity that you’re passionate about.” Kasper said that often highly qualified people end up not being selected, but that’s usually more a reflection of the pool’s overall quality than anything else. “I would say for anyone who thinks that it might be right for them or for someone that they know, just go ahead and nominate them,” said Kasper. “You’ve got nothing to lose by trying.” JN
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Pinnacle High School graduate proud to represent Chai MICHAEL MURRA | CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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ndrew Alber ts’ baseball skills bloomed in the desert, and now the Pinnacle High School Class of 2023 graduate is ready to shine 2,050 miles away in Charlotte, North Carolina. “Phoenix is an incredible place,” Alberts said. “I love the heat, so I can’t complain about the weather there. It was a great place to go to high school.” Alberts, 21, is a redshirt sophomore pitcher for the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). He loves the support and camaraderie he enjoys with his teammates and coaches within the 49ers’ baseball program. Alberts heard that his teammates planned to wear the popular “Jesus Won” warm-up shirts that Texas Rangers rookie Evan Carter debuted in 2023. Alberts completely understood, and there was a mutual respect between him and his teammates, who are predominantly Christian. But he wanted a shirt that represented his faith tradition. Thus, Alberts partnered with Jeremy Moses, co-founder of Tribe NIL, to work with Yonatees, a custom T-shirt shop that makes Jewish-themed apparel, to make
the shirt a reality. Tribe NIL, of which Alberts is a member, is a name, image and likeness collective for Jewish athletes to promote Jewish brands while connecting with fellow Jewish athletes. The shirt has a Chai symbol above the word ‘Chai’ spelled in English. Alberts proudly wore it to the ballpark during his redshirt season last spring and plans to continue wearing it throughout his playing career. He also proudly wears a Star of David necklace whenever he plays. “This shirt would not have been possible without Jeremy and Tribe NIL,” Alberts said. “I ultimately want to see as many Jewish athletes as possible rocking it. It would be pretty sweet to see a guy like Alex Bregman (of the Chicago Cubs) walk out in a Chai shirt. It is also a conversation starter because people ask and learn more about Judaism when they see it.” Even with a busy schedule, Alberts tries to attend events at Hillel and Chabad on the UNCC campus. Alberts said his connection to Judaism became stronger after the tragic events of October 7, 2023. At the time, he
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was playing junior college baseball in Washington state. “Everyone seemingly wanting to turn against the Jews, from the left and right — the misinformation is astonishing,” Alberts said. “I had two options — I could hide and conceal my Star of David, or I could wear it proudly and show that I’m not going to back down. I decided to speak out and stand up for who I am and for the Jewish people. That led me to the Chai shirt. I’m on a pretty special journey and excited to keep going on it.” Alber ts took an interesting path through both Judaism and baseball. Born in Dallas, Texas, he attended Pinnacle High School in Phoenix, where he was an AP Scholar. His family would attend services on the High Holy Days but wasn’t in one location long enough to establish ties with local synagogues. Alberts is one of the few college baseball players who never played high school baseball. Instead of suiting up for
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the Pinnacle Pioneers, he decided to train independently and play for club teams in the Phoenix area. Alberts ultimately landed at Manhattan University, a Division I school. Despite its name, the university is located in the Bronx. He enjoyed his time in New York but decided that Charlotte was a better fit. Alberts is considering a career in physical therapy or coaching after his playing days are over. In July, he completed an internship with Prime Performance, a baseball training facility in Florida. “I was able to help with the program’s routines, training and data,” Alberts said. “I enjoyed the opportunity to make a positive impact in athletes’ lives. There are so many guys who have been a positive influence on me. Giving back is one of the most fulfilling things, and the internship catapulted my interest in coaching and mentoring.” JN Michael Murra is a freelance writer based in Texas.
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Rabbi Michael Beyo explains why Judaism diverges from one of humanity’s oldest obsessions in new book JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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ccording to Rabbi Michael Beyo, CEO of East Valley Jewish Community Center (EVJCC) in Chandler, many of the world’s most influential civilizations throughout history can trace their deepestrooted cultural beliefs to an obsession with death and the afterlife. Published on July 1, “Choose Life: Torah’s Radical Answer to Civilization’s Oldest Obsession” traces the worship of death over the living across 4,000 years, from ancient civilizations — Egyptian tombs, Canaanite child sacrifices, Greek soul-philosophies and Roman gladiators — to the jihadist suicide bombers of the past century. Persevering among these world powers, “Choose Life” details why one civilization — Judaism — has consistently found life worth living from its roots until today. Per the book’s description on the back cover: “Drawing on Tanakh, Talmud and Midrash, Rabbi Michael Beyo argues that the central commandment of Jewish life — uvacharta ba’chayyim — is not a metaphor but instruction: a daily, structural and political choice against every system that asks us to trade the living for the eternal.” Beyo talked about his book to community members at the season’s first installment of the EVJCC’s “Tuesdays at the J” series on Sept. 1. He said he is relieved to have finally published this project that he has been thinking about for more than a decade. However, he is not finished, as he still carries the responsibility of standing true to his work and embodying the lessons he’s shared. “It is a relief to finish the heavy lifting — the research, finding the right words and conveying the right tone and message,” Beyo said. “At the same time, there is still that sense of responsibility, thinking back on what I should have written or what I forgot to mention.” Beyo said the idea for the book originated more than 10 years ago when two women approached him asking if he would perform a traditional Jewish funeral for them, even if they chose to be cremated rather than buried according to Jewish law. This got him thinking for a long time about why Jews are not allowed to cremate, interviewing friends, colleagues and other rabbis on the subject. There are various reasons why cremation is frowned upon in Judaism. First, the Torah considers the body a holy vessel for a lifetime of good deeds, one that must return to the Earth naturally without being destroyed. Second, the Kabbalah teaches that the soul does not leave the body JEWISHAZ.COM
immediately after death, so destruction via cremation is said to cause spiritual pain. Third, long-standing Jewish tradition holds that Jewish bodies will be resurrected in the Messianic Era. “If God is God, and if, in fact, there will be a resurrection of the dead, then you’d think He could do it in any way He wants,” Beyo said. “For the millions of Jews that were cremated, when it’s time to resurrect the dead, are they not going to be resurrected? That seems kind of cruel, and I don’t think God is cruel.” After Oct. 7, Beyo was struck by the world’s reaction. Protests sprouted all over the world, but the messages of those protests were not against terrorism or Hamas, and they were not in support of the Israelis killed or taken hostage. “Those demonstrations, ultimately, supported the death of Jews,” he said. Beyo argued that there is a fundamental connection between the monumental pyramids built for just one person at ancient Egypt’s apex of wealth, genius and power and the man who carries a backpack into a public place with the built-in faith that within moments of death, he will receive a reward so grand that it makes his earthly life entirely worthless. “The common denominator is a passionate love for death,” he said. “While Judaism, from its beginning until today, has a passionate love for life. The obsession with death that these civilizations have is part of the reason why there is antisemitism, because we represent everything that they are against.” When deciding which civilizations to include as examples in his book, Beyo said ancient Egypt, Christianity and Islam were all “natural choices.” He chose Greek and Roman civilizations “for the inseparable influence on Jewish history and world history,” while excluding civilizations that the Jewish people did not encounter, such as the Aztecs and Mayans. In ancient Rome, death was a form of sport and entertainment, and in ancient Greece, when Spartan soldiers went to war, their wives did not tell them to return safely; they told them to die with honor. Canaanite families sacrificed their children through fire as a means to show their devotion to their deities. While in Jewish tradition, God only ever asks for one child sacrifice, that of Isaac, but when Abraham proves his willingness to sacrifice his son to God, God sends an angel to stop him. He tested Abraham’s devotion while avoiding unnecessary death. Beyo thinks death has always been such
Rabbi Michael Beyo speaks about his new book at the first “Tuesdays at the J” event of the season on Sept. 1. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS “Choose Life: Torah’s Radical Answer to Civilization’s Oldest Obsession” cover. COURTESY OF RABBI MICHAEL BEYO/EAST VALLEY JCC
a human obsession because it gives power to the imagination. “Two kids watch the movie ‘Superman.’ One kid, after he sees the movie, goes up to the roof and says, ‘If (Superman) can fly, I will fly.’ And he tries to fly and dies. The other kid says, ‘If (Superman) can fly, I can fly,’ but he understands that it’s a movie; he understands that a human cannot fly, so he gets a Ph.D. in astrophysics and becomes an astronaut. The difference is the first kid functions only with this imagination. The second uses imagination but is curtailed by reality and knowledge,” Beyo said. The first part of his book analyzes various civilizations and how their culture and history led them to imagine their lives as lesser than what comes after. In the second part of the book, Beyo shows how Judaism values honoring and preserving life above all. The most important prayer associated with death, the Mourner’s Kaddish, does
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not even mention death, just honoring God. After a family member dies, Jews are obligated to honor them by sitting shiva for seven days, but after that, they are commanded to continue experiencing life. The Talmud even declared that a court that instituted a death penalty more than once every seven years was a bloodthirsty court. Jews are obligated to fast on Yom Kippur, but Jewish law states that a person who needs food for their personal health is not allowed to fast. “The concept is that we should not put our life in danger,” Beyo said. God commands men to have children, but he does not make the same demand of women, who, until recent years, had a high maternal mortality rate. Beyo explores these examples and more in “Choose Life,” available for purchase on Amazon.com. JN For more information, visit evjcc.org.
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RELIGIOUS LIFE TORAH STUDY
Simchat Torah: Why are these people dancing with a book? RABBI YISROEL ISAACS
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f you have ever wandered into an Orthodox synagogue on Simchat Torah night, you may have wondered what you Rabbi Yisroel Isaacs COURTESY OF RABBI YISROEL ISAACS stumbled into. Men of every age dance in tight, sweaty circles around the Torah scrolls, singing the same few lines for hours, children riding on their shoulders. In yeshiva neighborhoods, the celebration spills into the streets past midnight. The occasion? Finishing the annual reading of a book and starting it again from the beginning. To an outsider, the fuss can seem baffling. Not every insider feels it either. About 10 years ago, a Reddit user called 321Kaboosh posted a painfully honest question: “I grew up in the standard Orthodox system … I hated every minute of it because I found it to be intensely boring.
The Rabbeim (teachers) were sure into it, telling me that if I study hard, I’ll get a geshmak (enjoyment) out of it. That never happened … I’m a strong believer in God, Torah and even the importance of learning … Watching paint dry would be preferable … Can I do something to change it? Should I do something to change it?” Commenters offered sensible advice: see a counselor about any childhood baggage, lower expectations, study briefly each day and try new subjects, settings or study partners until something clicks. Good advice for the first question. But what about the second: should he bother? Jewish law answers with a ruling that is genuinely strange. On Tisha B’Av, the fast day mourning the destruction of both Temples, Jewish law forbids studying Torah: not only the Talmud’s legal debates, but the weekly parshah, the Mishnah, even the stories of the Midrash. The same applies to a mourner during shiva. The Talmud (Taanis 30a) cites a verse in Psalms: “The precepts of God are upright, gladdening the heart” (19:9). Torah study makes
you happy, and on a day of grief, happiness is out of place. Think about how unusual that is. Imagine Congress banning the reading of the tax code on Memorial Day because it is too enjoyable. No legal system I know of treats the study of its own statutes as a pleasure so intense that it must be suspended on days of sorrow. Judaism does, and it applies the rule to everyone, including the 321Kabooshes of the world. The law does not ask whether you personally enjoy learning. It assumes that Torah, properly engaged, is a source of joy and treats boredom as a barrier to break through rather than a final verdict. If someone feels no joy, the problem lies with the pilot, not the plane; the Torah itself is inherently joyous. Why assume that? Torah study is like watching Olympic diving. To the casual viewer, one dive looks much like the next. But the more you know about the sport, the more thrilling each dive becomes. For the initiated, a knotty passage of Talmud is not a chore; it is a puzzle with a breathtaking solution hiding in plain sight. Unusual phrasing in a verse of the weekly parshah is not a boring grammar
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lesson; it is a springboard from which the rabbis of the Midrash uncovered a beautiful or inspiring insight into human nature. That is what the Simchat Torah dancing is about. It is the Tisha B’Av prohibition turned inside out: if Torah study is too joyful for a day of mourning, it deserves a day devoted entirely to joy. Although I hope you join in the dancing, you don’t have to in order to appreciate it. The next time you see all that over-the-top rejoicing, consider that you may be watching a crowd of connoisseurs cheering a dive whose beauty you haven’t yet learned to see, and that the invitation to learn is open to every Jew. JN Rabbi Yisroel Isaacs is director of the Greater Phoenix Vaad Hakashrus and rabbi at Young Israel of Phoenix.
OPINION
Commentary
We need to take seriously the erosion of US support for Israel BENNY GANTZ | JTA
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n the shadow-filled days that followed Oct. 7, 2023, few things were as clear as the solemn understanding that what was cannot be again, and that things must change. Three years on, and ahead of the first elections since that day, with polls pointing toward yet another political deadlock, that realization has still not produced a clear collective answer to the question of how. Israel stands at an extraordinary moment, rapidly approaching Election Day on Oct. 27. We face serious threats, among the most troubling since our nation’s modern rebirth: a decline in our global standing, rising antisemitism, a weakening connection with Jewish communities abroad and, above all, a paralyzing internal divide over the questions that define who we are. The leaders facing this moment cannot be those who deepen that divide. Israel now needs a broad, moderate Zionist government – stretching from the responsible right to the responsible left, and strong enough to govern without dependence on political radicals.
This is not simply an argument about coalition politics. It is a strategic necessity. When it comes to Israel-U.S. relations, Israelis should take seriously California Congressman Brad Sherman’s recent warning about the erosion of support for Israel in America, particularly because it comes from one of Israel’s longstanding Democratic friends. The rhetoric and radical positions of figures such as Itamar Ben-Gvir, the national security minister in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, can cause damage to Israel’s standing even when they do not become government policy or are executed on the ground. Israel does not have to agree with every criticism coming from Washington. We are a sovereign country and must make our own security decisions while working to reduce unnecessary external dependence. But when friends who have defended Israel for decades tell us that something is going wrong, we should listen. The U.S.-Israel alliance cannot be held hostage to partisan politics. Presidents change, congressional
majorities change and political generations change. The alliance must be strong enough to endure all of them. The same is true of Israel’s relationship with American Jewry. American Jews should never have to support every Israeli minister or government to demonstrate their support for Israel. Criticism of a political vision is not a rejection of the Jewish state. American Jews remain outside Israel’s democratic arena, but Israel is the nation-state of the Jewish people, and we must protect the dialogue over our shared future. Governments come and go; Jewish peoplehood does not. That responsibility also has a religious dimension. The Western Wall should symbolize the shared history and destiny of the Jewish people. Instead, narrow coalition politics have allowed the question of how Jews can pray there to become another source of division between Israel and Jews abroad. I have said before that the Western Wall is large enough to accommodate everyone. It still is. The consequences of disproportionate
leverage for radicals do not stop at Israel’s borders. The Abraham Accords demonstrated what the alternative can look like. They shattered the assumption that Israel was condemned to isolation from much of our region. The next chapter could be even more consequential. A regional architecture connecting Israel, the United States and moderate Arab and Muslim countries through security, technology, trade and shared strategic interests could reshape Israel’s position for generations. JN Benny Gantz, the former minister of defense for the State of Israel, is the chairman of the Blue & White Party. This article has been edited for space. To read it in its entirety, visit jewishaz.com. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.
A NOTE ON OPINION
We are a diverse community. The views expressed in these opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the views of the officers and boards of the Jewish Community Foundation, Center for Jewish Philanthropy, Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, Cleveland Jewish Publication Company or the staff of Jewish News. Letters must respond to content published by Jewish News and should be a maximum of 200 words. They may be edited for space and clarity. Unsigned letters will not be published. Letters and op-ed submissions should be sent to editor@jewishaz.com 8
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Think dental health is just about your teeth? Think again. DR. MATTHEW ZWEIG | SPECIAL TO JEWISH NEWS
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hen you think about taking care of your health, you probably think about eating well, staying active, getting enough sleep and keeping up with your annual physical. But what about your teeth and gums? As a primar y Dr. Matthew Zweig care physician, COURTESY OF HONORHEALTH I spend a lot of
time talking with patients about the things they can do to stay healthy and prevent problems down the road. Dental care belongs in that conversation because your mouth isn’t separate from the rest of your body. In fact, changes in your mouth can sometimes offer clues about what’s happening elsewhere. That’s one reason looking at your mouth and throat can be part of a routine medical exam. Changes in your gums, tongue or other tissues may be worth a closer look, particularly when they appear alongside other symptoms.
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keeping up with medical appointments. Your medications can affect your oral health, too. Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications. It may sound like a minor annoyance, but saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth. When your mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, your risk of cavities and other oral health problems can increase. This can become particularly important as we get older. Many adults take several medications, and some can contribute to
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Diabetes is a good example. People with diabetes are at greater risk for gum disease, particularly when their blood sugar isn’t well controlled. High blood sugar can make it more difficult for your body to fight infections, including infections in your gums. At the same time, significant gum disease may make blood sugar more difficult to manage. That’s one reason I encourage my patients with diabetes to think of regular dental care as another part of managing their condition, just like monitoring their blood sugar, taking their medications and
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Continuing the tradition of serving generations of our community since 1917. www.lebowitzdental.com • 602-264-2905 JEWISHAZ.COM
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YourValley.net | Phoen
Delta Dental of Arizona expands its Delta Dental of Arizona Expands Its statewide addressing whole-p Benefit Offerings Statewide Addressing Advertorial
PHOENIX — Delta Dental of carrier relationship. DeltaWellness by Michael Jones, president zona announces the introduction of Delta Dental branding will now be used ecutive officer of Delta D ltaWellness by Delta Dental®, a across the organization’s DeltaVision® na. “The introduction of Newbrings offerings complement coreDeltaLife dental coverage withportfolios, vision, life, as disability and Dental builds o w brand that to-gether the itsand product by Delta anization’s supplemental growing suitehealth of health well as bundled benefit offerings that foundation while reflectin Dental of Arizona announces the d wellnessDelta off erings under one combine dental, vision, buyers want to purchase introduction of DeltaWellness by Delta “Today’s buyers simplicity, life, disability and want... sup- benefi ts. They want sim Dental , a new brand that brings together fied umbrella. Also introduced the organization’s growing suite of health day is DeltaLife®, a new portfolio of plemental insur- bility flexibilityhealth and partners who and can partners who and wellness offerings under one unified , Also introduced is DeltaLife , disability umbrella. and supplemental health ance products. Together, range of health and well support a range of health and a new portfolio of life, disability and urance products. these off erings provide This positions us to meet supplemental health insurance products. wellness solutions. ” The launch reflects Delta Dental of employers and brokers needs while continuing t The launch reflects Delta Dental of zona’s continued commitment to Michael with streamlined billing, oral health advancemen Arizona’s continued commitment to MichaelJones Jones -Michael Jones, CEO, serving employers, brokers and members ving employers, brokers and memfewer carriers to manage, our mission of providing a Delta Dental of Arizona with the products and services they s with theneedproducts and access services integrated beneficoverage. ts administration and a health and wellness.” most. While expanding to DeltaLife products are designed to help provide financial quality, affordable dental benefits remain the company’s core focus, y need most. While expanding ac- single point of contact ongoing Additionally, the n protection forfor employees and theirserfamilies while giving employers the introduction of DeltaWellness by Delta Dental reflects a growing access to benefits that are easier to understand, administer and demand from employers and brokers to access more ts through s to quality, affordable dental benvicebenefi and support. portfolio expands Delta support. a single carrier relationship. DeltaWellness by Delta Dental branding s remain the company’s core focus, “For more than 50 years, Delta zona’s ability to serve em will now be used across the organization’s DeltaVision and DeltaLife “DeltaLife helps employers strengthen their benefits package with product portfolios, as well as bundled benefit offDental erings that combine introduction of DeltaWellness of Arizona hasthatearned the protection trust andbyincome offstability eringforlife, disabilit coverage provides financial dental, vision, life, disability and supplemental health insurance employees andand their families during tough times,” said Jones. “These products i Delta Dental growing of employers, brokers members mental health products.reflects Together, theseaofferings provide employers and brokers benefits can help businesses attract and retain talent by giving with streamlined billing, fewer carriers to manage, benefits -mand from employers and byintegrated delivering quality dental benefi with group dental cover employees greater confidence in theirts financial security. Businesses administration and a single point of contact for ongoing service and are assured top-notch quality andsaid reliability because these services are okers to support. access more benefits backed by exceptional service,” products are designed to offered by a partner that brokers, business owners and HR professionals ough a single already know and trust.” “For more than 50 years, Delta Dental of Arizona has earned the trust of
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ZÖËÅÝËÙ ûƥ Currently available to Arizona-based businesses with 2-99 employees, the DeltaLife portfolio initially includes life insurance, short- and longterm disability insurance and accidental death and dismemberment plans. Value-added services like an Employee Assistance Program, bereavement counseling, identity theft support and travel assistance are also available with DeltaLife. Supplemental health products— including critical illness, hospital indemnity and accident insurance— are expected to hit the market later this year. Arizona businesses with more than 100 employees will be able to purchase DeltaLife products sometime in 2027.
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For more information about Delta Dental of Arizona, visit www.deltadentalaz.com.
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Advertorial
Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation Opens 2027 Grant Application Window; Vision Programs Eligible for Funding for First Time The Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation is pleased to announce the application window is now open for its 2027 grant cycle, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 available to organizations serving underserved and uninsured Arizonans through programs focused on oral health, medicaldental integration, food insecurity and, for the first time, vision. Eligible programs may include oral health education, disease prevention and access to dental care; programs that integrate oral health with medical care; food banks, after-school and weekend food programs for children and senior food delivery programs; and vision education, prevention and treatment programs. “Good health is about more than any one area of care, and our investments in Arizona communities reflect that,” said Michael Jones, president and chief executive officer of Delta Dental of Arizona and chair of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation. “Delta Dental of Arizona has offered vision benefits for nearly 20 years, so expanding our grant program to include vision is a natural next step in how we support whole-person health. By investing in programs focused on oral health, medical-dental integration, food insecurity and now vision, we can help more Arizonans access the care and resources they need to live healthier lives.” Applications are due Thursday, Oct. 8 by 5 p.m. Grant recipients will be notified in late 2026, with funding made available soon after. Organizations are eligible to receive one grant per year, with awards made for a one-year period. Funds may be used to support appropriate programmatic expenses, salaries, supplies and equipment. “We see firsthand how creative and resourceful Arizona nonprofits are in addressing the needs of the people they serve,” said Barb Kozuh, executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation. “Adding vision to our 2027 grant program gives us another way to support that work, whether an organization is connecting someone to dental or vision care, addressing food insecurity or finding better ways to connect oral and medical care. We are looking for strong
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programs with measurable outcomes that can make a meaningful difference.” Eligible applicants for the 2027 grant cycle include 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Public schools, federally recognized Indian tribes and governmental entities are also eligible. Organizations may apply for grants in four program areas: oral health, medical-dental integration, food insecurity and vision. Grants are only one type of investment Delta Dental of Arizona makes to support access to health and wellness statewide. According to the Delta Dental Institute’s 2025 Community Impact Report highlighting the philanthropic investments that Delta Dental companies made last year to support the oral and overall health of communities across the country, Delta Dental of Arizona contributed $2,005,743, positively impacting 724,544 people across the state’s 15 counties. By the numbers: • • • • • •
$2,005,743 was donated to improve health and wellness in Arizona 122 Arizona nonprofits were touched by Delta Dental of Arizona’s good works 155,862 toothbrushes, 149,064 tubes of toothpaste, and 127,872 dental floss pods were donated in Arizona 907 hours of volunteer service were completed by Delta Dental of Arizona employees 55,239 children received free dental screenings through Delta Dental of Arizona 2.8 million meals were provided for Arizona families through Delta Dental of Arizona
For more information about the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation resources or to apply for a grant, visit http://www.deltadentalaz.com/foundation/grants.
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OCTOBER 2, 2026
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SPECIAL SECTION DENTISTS
Halloween candy: What’s best — and worst — for your child’s teeth MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR
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or children, Halloween can mean costumes, neighborhood trick-ortreating and a bag overflowing with sweets. For parents, it can also mean wondering what all that candy will do to their children’s teeth. The good news is that families don’t have to ban Halloween candy to protect their children’s smiles. Dental organizations say the type of candy, how often it is eaten and good oral hygiene all play a role. However, some treats are better choices than others. For par ents sor ting thr ough a Halloween haul, chocolate is generally among the more tooth-friendly candy choices. Both the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) have identified chocolate as a better option. The ADA noted, “A little chocolate is fine,” and the organization added that semisweet and dark chocolate contain less
cavity-causing sugar than milk chocolate. Delta Dental’s “Quick Tips for Combating the Evils of Halloween Treats” said, “When comparing chocolate to hard candy or gummies, chocolate is the best bet for your teeth. We’re not saying chocolate is good for your oral health, but it is better than the alternatives. Chocolate is one of the most popular candies handed out on Halloween. It’s easier to clean off our teeth than sticky candies because it melts away instead of sticking around.” The AAPD specifically advises avoiding “chewy or sticky candies like caramels, gummies and sour candies.” The problem is that sticky candy can cling to teeth and remain in the mouth longer, giving cavity-causing bacteria more time to use the sugar and produce acids. This is especially important for children with braces, fillings or other dental work. Sticky candy can attach to dental appliances and make cleaning more difficult.
Choosing the right Halloween candy may make your child’s next trip to the dentist less scary. COURTESY OF VALERII HONCHARUK – STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Sour candy has its own problems because its acidic ingredients create a different dental concern. The acids that give sour candies their characteristic taste can attack tooth enamel, the hard outer layer that protects the teeth. The ADA lists sour candies among the worst
offenders because of their dietary acids. Hard candy also deser ves caution. According to Delta Dental, “Hard candies affect your teeth in two ways. First, if we’re not careful, we can break our teeth when we bite down. Second, we often leave hard candy in our mouths for a longer period
Advertorial 1. Personalized Care Without Pressure Your dental health is personal, and so is our approach. When you visit our office, we take as much time as necessary to listen to and thoroughly diagnose your concerns. Our job is to provide options, and help you make the best decision possible. We believe in empowering our patients, not pressuring them. Our job is to guide you, ensuring that you feel confident and informed every step of the way. 2. Treating You as We Would Want to Be Treated This isn’t just a saying—it’s one of our core values. We approach every treatment from a conservative perspective, always striving to preserve the natural integrity of the teeth. I often tell my patients, “I cannot improve on nature or God.” We know that once a tooth is altered, it’s never the same. That’s why we stress the importance of prevention and only intervene when absolutely necessary. Every restoration has a lifespan, and the moment we begin treatment, the clock starts ticking. By taking a cautious approach, we aim to extend the life of your natural teeth for as long as possible.
Serving the community for over 40 years
3. Uncompromised Quality of Care Quality is at the heart of everything we do. We provide the same high standard of dentistry that we would want for ourselves and our families. This commitment means that we are not constrained by what insurance companies dictate. We use only the best materials, supplies, and technology, regardless of what is covered in typical insurance formularies. While our fees may be higher, this investment reflects the quality of care you receive—the same quality we would want in our own mouths. The difference in fee supports our choice to use the best labs, the finest materials, and the most advanced equipment available. 4. Thoughtful Investment in Technology We are deliberate in the technology and equipment we bring into our practice. Each piece is carefully chosen to enhance the quality, efficiency, and predictability of our procedures. By investing in state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment equipment, we ensure that you receive the most accurate and effective care possible. We’ve invested in a CT scanner to aid in diagnostics, in powerful microscopes to greatly increase visibility during root canal treatments. The microscope drastically improves the quality of dental fillings and crowns. In intraoral scanner to minimize the discomfort of impression material, in a piezo surgical device to increase the predictability of surgery, in handheld, portable x-ray machines to decrease the amount of exposure you receive. In an X-Guide Navigation System, which is a dynamic navigation system that increases the precision, accuracy, angle, and safety of implant procedures.
Serving the community for over 40 years
Schedule an Serving the community f appointment today! Schedule an appointment today! www.ParadiseValleyDental.com
Schedule
480-998-7775 appointmen www.ParadiseValleyDental.com 480-998-7775
DR. SHALOM FIALKOFF
www.ParadiseVall Serving the community for over 40 years
DR. SHALOM FIALKOFF
5. Building Trust Through Long-Term Relationships Trust is the cornerstone of our practice and another one of our core values. We have been serving the community, building relationships that span generations since the early 1980s. We are proud to have patients who have been with us for 10, 20, even 30 years. Some families are in their fourth, and one family is in their fifth generation of care with us. This longevity is a testament to the trust and confidence our patients place in us—a trust we work hard to earn every day.
Schedule an appointment today!
480-998-
www.ParadiseValleyDental.com Serving community for over 40 years DR.theSHALOM FIALKOFF IMPLANTS | ORTHODONTICS | COSMETICS 480-998-7775 IMPLANTS | | ORTHODONTICS | COSMETICS GENERAL RESTORATIVE RECONSTRUCTION Schedule an Join Our Dental Family appointment|today! At Paradise Valley Dental we don’t just treat teeth—we build lasting relationships based on trust, GENERAL RESTORATIVE RECONSTRUCTION respect, and uncompromised care. Experience the difference for yourself. Schedule your appointment today and become part of our dental family, where we focus on beautiful and medically necessary dental care. Visit us at ParadiseValleyDental.com, call us, or text us at (480) 998-7775 to join our practice. We look forward to welcoming you!
DR. SHALOM FIALKOFF IMPLANTS | ORTHODONTICS | CO www.ParadiseValleyDental.com 480-998-7775 GENERAL RESTORATIVE | RECONST
IMPLANTS | ORTHODONTICS | COSMETICS DR. SHALOMGENERAL FIALKOFF RESTORATIVE | RECONSTRUCTION 12
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SPECIAL SECTION DENTISTS
HEALTH
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of time. This gives the sugar more time on our teeth.” Perhaps the most important consideration is how often children eat their treats. Rather than allowing children to graze on Halloween candy throughout the day after the holiday, the ADA recommends having candy with a meal or shortly afterward. Eating increases saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and cavitycausing acids. Sugar-free gum can be another option. The ADA said chewing sugar-free gum for about 20 minutes after eating increases saliva and helps neutralize acids. Drinking water also helps to rinse away sugars and acids after eating sugary treats. Halloween creates temptations that often disrupt oral health routines. From staying out late to keeping candy around 24/7, it’s cavity-causing season. But if you keep your children’s oral health in check, you can keep cavities away. Limit the number of treats per day and reinforce the need for good oral hygiene. Parents don’t have to declare the Halloween candy haul off-limits. Instead, let children choose their favorite treats and set reasonable limits on when and how much they eat. Families can also opt for treats for Halloween gatherings or to pass out at home that are not candy — stickers, pen-
cils, small toys or other age-appropriate items are alternatives suggested by the ADA and AAPD. There are also local dentists who offer Halloween candy “buy back” options. Affiliated Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Scottsdale, Thunderbird Children’s Dentistry in Peoria, Robison Orthodontics in Gilbert and Aesthetic Family Dental Care in Mesa are some offices that offer these programs. Check with them beforehand and see what the criteria are for bringing in Halloween candy. If you’re opting to keep the candy, just steer children toward the chocolate, limit the sticky and sour stuff, keep the candy from becoming an all-day snack and make sure those toothbrushes don’t get forgotten. For Valley families, that may be the easiest way to make Halloween a little less scary — at least when it comes to the dentist. Note: This is also good advice that can apply to Purim (beginning Monday, March 22, 2027). While the gifts of mishloach manot often include chocolates, gummies and other sweets, the same dental advice applies: enjoy treats in moderation, avoid grazing on candy throughout the day and maintain good brushing and flossing habits. For families preparing Purim gift baskets, including fruit, nuts or other non-candy treats alongside sweets can also provide some variety.
dry mouth. At the same time, changes in dexterity, mobility or other health conditions can make brushing, flossing and getting to the dentist more difficult. Oral health shouldn’t become less of a priority as we age. In many ways, it becomes even more important. If you regularly experience dry mouth, talk with your doctor or dentist. Don’t stop taking a medication on your own, but let them know what you’re experiencing. Sometimes a doctor can adjust a medication or recommend ways to help manage the symptoms. I also tell patients not to ignore changes that persist. Gums that regularly bleed, swelling, loose teeth, sores that don’t heal, persistent dry mouth or ongoing pain deserve attention. Your dentist is usually the best place to start with a problem involving your teeth or gums, but depending on what’s going on, your dentist and primary care provider may need to work together. That communication matters. Your dentist should know about any medical conditions that you have and the medications that you take. Your primary care provider should know if you’re dealing with a significant dental infection or ongoing oral health problem. We’re treating the same person, after all.
Advertorial
Dr. Shawn M. Bader, DDS, MS – Expert Orthodontic Care for Children and Adults At Faces Orthodontics PLLC, we believe every smile tells a story—and we’re here to make yours shine. Leading our practice is Dr. Shawn M. Bader, DDS, MS, a board-certified orthodontist with a passion for helping both children and adults achieve healthy, confident smiles. Dr. Bader earned his dental degree from the University of Toronto before completing his Orthodontics Certificate and Master’s degree at the University of Kentucky. With more than two decades of experience, he combines advanced training with a caring, personal approach to orthodontic treatment. As a father of two boys and a former youth sports coach, Dr. Bader understands the importance of respect and encouragement, especially when working with younger patients. He recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation around age 8, when potential issues can be identified early and treatment can be carefully planned. For adults, it’s never too late to improve your smile—Dr. Bader and his team offer a full range of orthodontic solutions, from traditional braces to discreet clear aligners. Dr. Bader is proud to be Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and remains active in professional study clubs, ensuring that his patients benefit from the latest advancements in orthodontic care. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: treat every patient like family, providing the highest level of care in a warm and welcoming environment. When he’s not in the office, Dr. Bader enjoys family time with his wife, Sharon, and their sons, Jaedon and Troy. He also volunteers in his community and continues to grow as both a professional and a leader. At Faces Orthodontics, your smile is our priority. Schedule your consultation today and discover the difference of expert, compassionate orthodontic care.
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Dr. Matthew Zweig is a board-certified family physician with HonorHealth Medical Group in Tempe. He provides primary care services with an emphasis on preventive health, wellness and the management of chronic medical conditions.
Faces Orthodontics Dr. Shawn M. Bader, M.S., DDS Scottsdale 480-661-1818 Phoenix 602-992-7182 Peoria 623-566-6784 Braces & Aligners for Children and Adults
WWW.FACESORTHODONTICS.COM
Provider of Brava- Braces behind your teeth. Braces & Aligners for Children and Adults Scottsdale 480-661-1818
Faces Orthodontics Dr. Shawn M. Bader, M.S., DDS 8890 E Desert Cove • Scottsdale, AZ 85260 • 480-661-1818 9059 W. Lake Pleasant Pkwy • Peoria, AZ 85382 • 623-566-6784 DRB@facesorthodontics.com
The good news is that taking care of your mouth doesn’t require a complicated routine. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily and keep up with regular dental visits. Limit foods and drinks with added sugar and avoid tobacco. If something changes in your mouth, don’t wait until it becomes painful to have it checked. And while you’re keeping up with your dental appointments, don’t forget about the rest of your preventive care. Your annual visit with your primary care provider is an opportunity to check your blood pressure, review medications, discuss recommended screenings and vaccinations and talk about changes you may have noticed in your health. We sometimes divide healthcare into specialties — your dentist takes care of your mouth, your cardiologist takes care of your heart and your primary care physician looks after everything else. Your body doesn’t work that way. Your oral health is one piece of a much bigger picture. Taking care of your teeth and gums isn’t just about protecting your smile. It’s part of taking care of you. JN
Peoria 623-566-6784
WWW.FACESORTHODONTICS.COM
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OCTOBER 2, 2026
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COMMUNITY
Partners with PJ Wisdom wine Tashlich Workingtime together Rachel Rapoport,and director of community partnerships at PJ Serving up ofkindness time Library, spoke at PJ spoke Librarywith Partner Day and at the Ina Levine David Weiner, farthe left, Steven Ellen Weiss Membersof ofthe Congregation Or Tzion in Scottsdale cast their sins away during tashlich at Scottsdale’s Chaparral Park. Members Board Rabbis of Greater Phoenix gathered to prepare for the High Holidays at Temple Chai in Scottsdale with visiting scholar, BLT COURTESY OF CONGREGATION OR TZION
Rabbi Dan Medwin, fourthJews fromfor left.Justice (AJJ) volunteers made more than 450 overnight oats for the unsheltered community. COURTESY RABBIANDYGREEN On September 15, Arizona AJJOFpartnered with the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix, Uri L’Tzedek and Repair The World for this event. COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE
Lunch and learning From left to right, Terri Rimer, Janet Lottman and Vicki Diamond connected over lunch and learned how to stay one step ahead of fraud at the recent Smile on Seniors event “It’s Not Just Lunch and Fraud Prevention” on Sept. 2 held at the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus in COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS Scottsdale.
Jewish Community on Aug. The event gathered about their philanthropic at27. the Center Jewish Rob Goldman, left,Campus andendeavors Rick Steiman enjoy afor morning Jewish professionals inPhoenix’s the community who with children. Philanthropy of Greater Society Wisdom & of connection, conversation andBen-Gurion tefillin at work Smile On Seniors COURTESYGREATER OF JEWISH NEWS Wine Bagels, event onLox Sept. COURTESYevent OF THE CENTER FOR JEWISH “BLT: and1.Tefillin” on Sept. 6.PHILANTHROPY COURTESY OF OF SMILE ONPHOENIX SENIORS
Taking Secretsshape of the stage is underway as the Construction
Hilton Family Holocaust Education Participants in the Brandeis Phoenix Center moves closer to becoming a Adult Summer Camp were treated place where visitors can encounter to a behind-the-scenes tour at the Holocaust history through Peoria Center for the Performing Arts. testimony, artifacts and education. COURTESY OF BRANDEIS NATIONAL COMMITTEE PHOENIX CHAPTER COURTESY OF THE HILTON FAMILY HOLOCAUST EDUCATION CENTER
Being better humans
On Sept. 2, community members Susan and Steve Kaufman A new perspective Nailed it! volunteered on Arizona Jews for Justice’s (AJJ) “Let’s Be
Five from artist’s Daniel 2024 show, “Went The use Flow” with Five15Arts Rabbipieces Gavriel Goetz, far left, andFriedman’s YeshivaBetter High School of bus Arizona students extra materials fromarts the Humans” withWith Brandon Nahsonhoya, AJJ’s outreach collective aregoing now on onatdisplay inschool the “Desert exhibit at the Scottsdale of construction the high to buildPerspectives” a tree COURTESY OFthan YESHIVA110 HIGHMuseum SCHOOL OF ARIZONA coordinator (nothouse. pictured). They served more people with Contemporary Art. “Desert Perspectives” willwater run until 5, 2027. COURTESY OF DANIEL FRIEDMAN food, andSept. essential resources. COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE
This COMMUNITY page features photos of community members This COMMUNITY page features photos of community members around the Valley and the world. Submit around the Valley and the world. Submit photos and details each photos and details each week to Sukkah building Game night Preparing for the new year week to editor@jewishaz.com by 10 a.m. Members Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley Brotherhood worked the Staman roof of the sukkah From left of tothe right, Helene Finke, David Finke, Ettie Zilber, Norm Karson andon Marc joined the editor@jewishaz.com byMonday. 10 a.m. Monday. The Jewish Community of Sedona and the Verde Valley (JCSVV) held an Elul workshop for members and guests on Sunday, Aug. 30, led by before services on Friday, Sept. 25. in the photogame are Richard Bass, Max Allen and Michael Phoenix Holocaust Association forShown a members-only night in July.Eric Fisher, COURTESY OF PHOENIX HOLOCAUST ASSOCIATION Rabbi Not Alicia Magal, are standing. Zager. pictured Bob Koch and Dave Katz, who also assisted. COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY 14 OCTOBER 2, 2026 JEWISHAZ.COM
JEWISH NEWS
COURTESY OF MERI THOMASON
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CALENDAR
Featured Event SUNDAY, OCT. 4 9 a.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Beth El Phoenix Hebrew School for a family-friendly holiday service, a dessert reception, dancing and the launch of the Holy Rollers Torah Care program. For more information, visit bethelphoenix.com/event/simchat-torah. Events SATURDAY, OCT. 3 Seudah Shlishit & Simchat Torah Celebration: 5 p.m. Shabbat mincha service; 7 p.m. Simchat Torah service. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Beth El for Shabbat mincha service, Torah study with Rabbi Stein-Kokin and a potluck meal. Please bring a dairy or pareve dish to share with the community. After the meal, dance with the Torah at the Simchat Torah service. For more information, visit bethelphoenix.com/event/simchat-torah. Simchat Torah USY Teen Lock-In: 7 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join USY teens from across the Far West region for a holiday sleepover with dinner and breakfast included. For more information, visit bethelphoenix.com/form/usy-lockin. SUNDAY, OCT. 4 Israeli Film Series: “Oz’s List”: Online access available all day. Join the East Valley Jewish Community Center for this documentary following Oz Davidian, a 53-year-old farmer and lawyer who drove his own truck into the Nova Festival massacre on Oct. 7, 2023 — again and again — to rescue terrified young Israelis from Hamas gunmen. For more information, visit evjcc.org/film. THURSDAY, OCT. 8 Fashion Show and Lunch: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Grandview Terrace, 14515 W. Granite Valley Drive, Sun City West. Join Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley’s Sisterhood for lunch, a fashion show and shopping. Cost: $40 for lunch and show; shopping at no charge from 10-11:30 a.m. or 1-2 p.m. For more information, call 623-584-7210 between 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Monday-Friday. When Judaism Began: Understanding Ezra and Nehemiah: 1-2 p.m. Online via Zoom. Join Valley Beit Midrash with co-sponsor Congregation Or Tzion for a virtual presentation by Rabbi Steven M. Bob on the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which tell the story of the return to Jerusalem from the first exile in ancient Babylonia. For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org. SATURDAY, OCT. 10 Simchat Shabbat: 12-1 p,m, Congregation Beth Israel, 10461 N. 56th St., Phoenix. Join Gesher Disability Resources for a 45-minute service led by clergy using a siddur (prayer book) that is specially designed for these services with Hebrew, English and transliterations in enlarged type accompanied by illustrations. For more information, visit gesherdr.org. SUNDAY, OCT. 11 Pride Parade: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Parade begins at Third and Portland Streets, Phoenix. Join AZ Jews for Pride as they participate in the Phoenix Pride Parade. For more information, visit phoenixcjp.org/pride26. Café Europa: 1 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join the Phoenix Holocaust Association for an afternoon of socializing for Holocaust survivors, their families and friends. For more information, visit phxha.com/ events-2. JEWISHAZ.COM
An Intimate Connection to the IDF: Dispelling Myths About the War in Gaza: 1-2:30 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation Friends of Israel for a presentation by Aaron Shuster, co-founder of the Make a Difference Foundation, which supports IDF soldiers and their families impacted by the conflict. For more information, contact israelsunlakes@gmail.com. West Valley Jewish Expo: 2-4 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join Chabad of Surprise for a celebration of Jewish unity, identity and life featuring Miss Israel 2025, Melanie Shiraz, a deli, live music, vendors and more. For more information, visit jewishsurprise.com/expo. Voices and Votes: Congressional District 1 Forum and Candidate Social: 2:30-5 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join the Jewish Community Relations Council for interviews with Democrat Amish Shah and Republican Jay Feely and a reception with candidates for Maricopa County and statewide elections. For more information, contact brian.rothstein@ jcrcphoenix.org.
Meetings, Lectures & Classes
and communal — using short readings to spark conversation, questions and debate. For more information, visit tbsaz.org. Pomegranate Guild of Judaic Needlework, Desert Cactus Chapter: 10 a.m. The Oasis at Sagewood, 4555 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. The guild meets on the third Monday of the month, adjusted when necessary to accommodate Jewish holidays. For more information, visit pomegranateguild.org. Mahjong: 1:30-3:30 p.m. East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Come play mahjong each week. For all levels. Cost: Free; registration required at evjcc.org/mahjong. TUESDAYS Tuesday Morning Talmud: 10-11 a.m. Oct. 6 through Dec. 8. Online via Zoom or in person. Location provided upon registration. Join the Women’s Leadership Institute’s Rabbi Emily Langowitz for a Talmud class for learners of all levels interested in seeing how these ancient texts continue to offer wisdom for our 21stcentury lives. For more information, visit womenlearning.org/courses.
SUNDAYS Chassidus Class: 9 a.m. Online. Learn about the Chasidic movement with Rabbi Yossi Friedman. Use this link: ChabadAZ.com/LiveClass. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.
Let’s Knit: 1:30 p.m. Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Share the pleasure of knitting, crocheting, etc. outside the social hall in the campus. Can’t knit? They will teach you! All levels welcome. Cost: Free. For more information, visit vosjcc.org.
Jewish War Veterans Post 210: 10 a.m. on the first Sunday of the month in Central Phoenix. Any veterans, friends of veterans or if you just want to meet a vet, all are welcome. For more information, contact Michael at c365michael@ yahoo.com.
Grief Support Group: 4 p.m. Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. All are welcome to this support group for anyone experiencing grief or any kind of loss. Cost: Free. For more information, call 623-584-7210 weekdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
MONDAYS Online Weekly Parshah: Women’s Torah Study: 9-10 a.m. Oct. 5 through Dec. 7. Online via Zoom. Join the Women’s Leadership Institute’s founder, Rabbi Elena Kanter, for an exploration of the weekly parshah. Participants will receive a commentary sheet for reference during class. For more information, visit womenlearning.org/courses.
WEDNESDAYS My Baby and Me: 9-10 a.m. Temple Chai Early Childhood Center, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. Join Temple Chai ECC for a weekly gathering for families with babies up to 12 months. Cost: Free. For more information, visit tcaz. shulcloud.com/event/my-baby-and-me-playgroup.html.
A Life of Meaning: 10-11:30 a.m. Oct. 5, 12 and 19. Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Join Rabbi Dana Evan Kaplan for a three-part exploration of Reform Judaism. Each session will explore a different path to meaning — spiritual, ethical
MILESTONES
History of the Jews: 7 p.m. Online. Learn the Jewish journey from Genesis to Moshiach with Rabbi Ephraim Zimmerman. Use this link: zoom.us/j/736434666. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. JACS: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Online. Zoom support group for Jewish alcoholics, addicts and
COURTESY OF BETH EL PHOENIX
Community Simchat Torah Celebration:
their friends and family on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Cost: Free. For more information, email jacsarizona@gmail. com or call 602-692-1004. THURSDAYS Prayer: Why It’s Difficult and What To Do About It: 10-11:30 a.m. Oct. 8, 15 and 22. Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Fay Henning-Bryant, past TBS board president and chair of the temple’s Adult Education Committee, will lead this three-part course. Cost: $20 for members; $35 for nonmembers. Registration deadline is Oct. 6. For more information, visit tbsaz.org. Torah Study with Rabbi Lev Ettelson: 11 a.m. Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. Join Rabbi Ettelson for a discussion of the weekly Torah portion. For more information, call 623584-7210 weekdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mindfulness Gatherings: 12 p.m. Online. Hosted by Hospice of the Valley via Zoom. Cost: Free. To join by phone, dial 1-253-215-8782, meeting ID 486 920 2119#, to get the Zoom link or for further questions contact Gill Hamilton at ghamilton@hov.org or 602-748-3692. Weekly Mahjong: 1-3 p.m. Temple Solel, 6805 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley. Join Temple Solel each Thursday afternoon for mahjong. Lessons available for beginners. Cost: Free. RSVP via email to dottiebefore@gmail.com so they know how many tables to set up. SATURDAYS Saturday Mindfulness Gatherings: 9:30 a.m. Online. Hosted by Hospice of the Valley. To join by phone, dial 1-253-215-8782, meeting ID 486 920 2119#. To get the Zoom link or for more information, contact Gill Hamilton at ghamilton@hov.org or 602-748-3692. Book Discussion: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Online. Join Or Adam Congregation for Humanistic Judaism on the third Saturday of every month for a book discussion. For more information and to register, contact oradaminfo@gmail.com. JN
Two Adjacent Plots in the Jewish Section at Green Acres.
OBITUARY RUBY DORDEK KAUFMAN Ruby Dordek Kaufman of Tempe died on Sept. 15, 2026. She was 97. Ruby was born in Chicago, Illinois. She was preceded in death by her husband, Irving Kaufman; and is survived by her daughters Eve K. Nichols, Sharon A. Kaufman-Osborn and Julie E. Kaufman; sister, Sylvia Miller; brother, Arthur Dordek; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Services will be held later this year at Friendship Village Tempe and will be officiated by Rabbi Beth Nichols. Donations in her name may be made to Ballet Arizona (giving.gofundme.com/ campaign/810349/donate) or Hospice of the Valley (hov.org/donate). JN JEWISH NEWS
Significantly discounted from current sales prices. Owner will share transfer costs with the buyer. Contact Glenn Lippman either at 602-885-2069 or lipberry2@gmail.com OCTOBER 2, 2026
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“Best of ” magazine 2026
Honoring Jewish Women Who Inspire Our Community
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OCTOBER 2, 2026
JEWISH NEWS
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