Jewish News, Jan. 19, 2024

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Alessandra Sachs is living out one of her lifelong dreams: being a cop.

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JANUARY 19, 2024 | SHEVAT 9, 5784 | VOLUME 76, NUMBER 10

Supporters ‘light the spark’ for the Jewish community, say CJP awards MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

I

f you’ve ever noticed one of the hot pink billboards on social media or along a Phoenix freeway with powerful Jewish-themed messages, you have seen the creative handiwork of Archie Gottesman, co-founder of JewBelong and the keynote speaker for the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix’s Lighting the Spark Breakfast on March 7 at The Clayton House in Scottsdale.

JewBelong started as an online resource center for people who are Jewish, but sometimes feel disengaged from Jewish life, to find resources that are relevant, friendly and easily comprehensible.

Gottesman was raised in a Conservative Jewish home, and she married Gary DeBode who grew up United Methodist and converted to Judaism. “I was very interested in seeing Judaism through Gary’s eyes,” said Gottesman. “It can be really intimidating to people. If they didn’t learn this or that, or didn’t have a bar mitzvah, they just feel like they’re not part of it and shy away from getting more involved. We call it ‘JewBarrassment.’”

To get the attention of disengaged Jews and drive them to the website, Gottesman and JewBelong’s other co-founder, Stacy Stuart, came up with catchy sayings to put on billboards. “So you eat bacon. God has other things to worry about” and “Judaism: Come for your girlfriend. Stay for the lack of hell” were a couple of the phrases.

Soon, they were getting followers and feedback. “I haven’t gone to a Jewish website in 15 years, but I saw your billboard and I think this might be for me,” was one of the comments Gottesman SEE SPARK, PAGE 2

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AZ legislature opening day includes ‘Hatikvah,’ Holocaust survivors and unanimous approval of resolution supporting Israel SHANNON LEVITT | STAFF WRITER

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hoenix Holocaust survivors Kathy Gross and Rise Stillman took part in kicking off the Arizona House of Representatives opening-day ceremony on Monday, Jan. 8, by giving an invocation and reading the Pledge of Allegiance, respectively. They were followed by Moshe Bukshpan’s violin rendition of “Eli Eli,” a 1942 poem by Hungarian Jewish World War II resistance fighter Hannah Szenes and set to music in 1945, and “Hatikvah,” Israel’s national anthem.

Gross said it was an honor to give the invocation in front of the assembly, even as she admitted, “I was leery that I would be able to do it because I have a heavy accent and I have not been performing in front of a large audience in a long time — maybe never.”

Phoenix Holocaust Association (PHA) Executive Director Leslie Feldman and

Standing ovation after reading of resolution in support of Israel on Monday, Jan. 8.

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Citing the Holocaust, Israel offers rebuttal A Jewish guide to the 2024 GOP Gabriel Attal, France’s new prime minister, to South Africa’s genocide charges at the presidential contenders as primary season says his Jewish ancestry has shaped him International Court of Justice opens in Iowa

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received.

In May of 2021, during a major outbreak of violence in the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, Gottesman and Stuart felt that antisemitism was becoming more normalized in a way they had not seen before in their city of New York and reacted by raising awareness — on a digital billboard in Times Square.

Soon, all the billboard messaging turned to fighting antisemitism.

“We’re just 75 years since the gas chambers. So no, a billboard calling out Jew hate isn’t an overreaction,” reads one. “Can a billboard end antisemitism?

No. But you’re not a billboard,” reads another. JewBelong billboards are in 27 states across the country with a goal of being in all 50.

Gottesman said that billboards and outdoor advertising are the only modes of media that are not in your own “information silo.” People usually receive news and information based on algorithms established on their devices.

“There’s a real issue with all of us having our own unique viewpoint simply because we’re being fed news that’s not shared by everybody,” said Gottesman.

“Billboards are seen by everybody, no matter your point of view.”

Since the Hamas attacks on Oct. 7, new billboards have popped up with even more powerful messages, including “You don’t need to go to law school to know anti-Zionism is antisemitism” near the University of California, Berkeley; “Don’t be naïve. Hamas is your problem too” in San Diego,*Best California; and of Magazine “Hamas would chop your head off too” **Annual Directory in New Jersey that was eventually taken down after police received dozens of complaints.

2023 Phoenix Jewish News Print Dates

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about her Judaism with her fellow council members and speaking out for her rights and beliefs. said Jon Meyers, director of ADDPC. She already has some practice at “Our hope is to create and promote advocating for herself. opportunities for people to be embraced, “One time, I was in class and someone become part of the community and find called me the R-word and I told him not equitable opportunities wherever they to. The teacher was in the hallway and might live,” he said. another student repeated the word,” she Meyers first came to know Stern said. Rather than letting the situation go, through her mother, Amy Silverman, who she told her theater teacher, who was able read her personal essays about raising a to intervene. daughter with Down syndrome on KJZZ, “If someone has a disability, saying National Public Radio’s Phoenix affiliate the R-word is like saying the F-word,” station.

Stern said.

Meyers was so captivated by the essays While performing in the musical that he reached out to Silverman, and the “Hairspray,” she had another occasion Barry and Barbara Zemel at their home in Paradise Valley.

COURTESY OF THE CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX two became friends. to tangle with the offensive word, which That’s how Stern first learned of the appears in the script.

Gottesman said but thatthere’s Hamas’ open council seat, no hatred doubt “That’s really bad and my friend said for the Western worldMeyers is everyone’s she earned her position, said. it on stage. I was not OK with that, so I problem and fora Jews to stay silent isStern very went to the director and told her it was To become council member, dangerous. had to apply and demonstrate that she had a bad word for people with disabilities, “Judaismvaluable makes me feel that I he belong something to contribute, said. but she wouldn’t take it out,” Stern said. to “She’s something bigger in thisbecause world,” she she on the council She let her mother know about the said.

“Things so confusing andsaid. so conflict and they were able to convince deserves to be are on the council,” he messed It’s nice to have values as likea the director of the need to remove the Stern isup. creating a life and career education, and community. member offamily her community, which That’s makes word from the script. aher lota of what Judaism means to me and great addition.

“My friend Al was next to me when it’sStern so important.” graduated from McClintock I told the director and he gave me the In the spirit in of Tempe community, Lighting the biggest hug ever and said that he loved High School last year and now Spark will highlight the programs of the attends Glendale Community College, me so much,” Stern said. Sadly, Al died Center Jewish Philanthropy with a for focus on dance.

She isofa Greater regular in a car crash on Oct. 24, 2021.

Phoenix (CJP) and honor people in the performer at Detour Company Theatre, “That was hard; it’s very hard to get Jewish community with several awards: a Scottsdale theatre company for adults Archie emotions out and I was very, very Gottesman COURTESYupset,” OF JEWBELONG the CJP Spark Award, the Belle Latchman with intellectual, developmental and she said.

Community Service Award and the Lee physical disabilities.

On theaward recentisanniversary of hisservice death, “This not just about Amada and Sy Leadership In fact, whenClark SternYoung attended her first and Sterncontribution made a caketoand it to the ourtook organization Awards. council meeting in January, she couldn’t but crashit’s site. about the role they play in the The Lighting Spark Award wait to tell people of the her involvement with community “I don’t at know how did it without large,” saidI Richard Kasper, celebrates and recognizes extraordinary Detour and share information about its CJP’s crying.CEO. I’m so proud of myself,” she said. individuals who give, advocate and upcoming shows.

Amy Hummell, executive director of “What sets the Zemels apart from others volunteer for positive that change our Gesher Disability Resources, agreed that “There’s no question she isingoing in their class is their thoughtfulness,” community. to thrive,” Meyers said. “She’s very continued Stern is a good fit “They for ADDPC because Kasper. respond when This year, and the award is being giventhe to of her ability to self-advocate. gregarious passionate about asked but are also proactive in regularly Barbara andmatter Barry to Zemel. things that her.”

Hummell co-hosted a book event agoSPARK, for PAGE “My4 Stern looks forward to sharing insights with Meyers a few years SEE SOPHIE STERN

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Sophie Stern at her high school graduation in 2022 COURTESY OF SOPHIE STERN

Heart Can’t Even Believe It: A Story of Science, Love and Down Syndrome,” Silverman’s book about her daughter.

When Gesher’s speakers’ bureau, Damon Brooks & Associates, was asked to find a speaker about Down syndrome for an event this spring, Hummell first asked Silverman to speak, thinking Stern might be too young.

They decided instead that Stern should tell her own story; it’s a real bonus that she is not afraid of public speaking.

“It’s not the same when someone tries to tell a person’s story for them,” Hummell said.

Additionally, helping people with disabilities find jobs was one of the reasons for acquiring the bureau. Unemployment in the disability community is upwards *Best of Magazine of 75% and of that percentage, 75% are ready, willing and able to work — but **Annual Directory haven’t been given the opportunity, Hummell said.

“People have it in them to speak up but WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM don’t know how, and often they’re not cheered on. Sophie has family support

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Board President Sheryl Bronkesh met late last year with Michael Hunter, Republican House Speaker Ben Toma’s chief of staff, about including survivors in the openingday ceremony. At last year’s opening ceremony, local Holocaust sur vivor Hanna Zach Miley was asked to speak about escaping Germany as a child on the Kindertransport, an organized rescue effort of children from Nazi-controlled territory that took place in 1938–1939.

Hunter also requested that Bukshpan play “Hatikvah” and one other song.

Feldman suggested “Eli Eli” because it was written by Szenes, who was from Hungary, the same country where both Gross and Stillman were born.

Bukshpan, the executive director of the Red Rocks Music Festival, played an instrument that now belongs to Krystyna Diamant of Tempe. Her father, Max, buried the violin in the woods in 1942 before being forced from his home in Przemysl, Poland and transported to the Belzec extermination camp. Miraculously, he escaped from the train, returned home and survived the war hiding in a small attic. After the war, he was able to retrieve the violin, which he played until he passed away in 2003. The violin is part of Violins of Hope, a program involving a traveling private collection of violins, violas and cellos that belonged to Jews before and during World War II. It is now on loan to the Arizona Jewish Historical Society.

“How am I to dress?” Gross asked. She was told to select a suit but as she hadn’t worn one since she closed her business 25 years ago, she wasn’t even sure she had kept one. “I started shopping in my closet and I finally found one.”

In her prayer to the assembly, she asked the legislative members to “exercise their responsibilities with wisdom, fairness and justice for all.”

She didn’t sleep Sunday night for fear that she would cough in the middle of her invocation and sucked on cough drops before her name was called.

“I pulled it off,” she laughed afterward.

The best part of the day for Stillman was looking for a parking spot. PHA Vice President Eva Flaster drove her to the event but parking was hard to find.

When Flaster flagged down a police officer to explain that she needed help getting Stillman inside quickly and who she was, he not only offered to escort her into the building but asked to take a photo with her, telling her what an honor it was to meet someone who survived the Holocaust.

“I never felt so important as a survivor or thought of it as having some kind of status until today,” Stillman said.

After the Grand Canyon University pep band played “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “God Bless America,” and Arizona Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall regaled the legislators JEWISHAZ.COM

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Moshe Bukshpan plays “Hatikvah” at the House of Representatives opening day ceremony on Monday, Jan. 8.

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Kathy Gross, left, and Rise Stillman take a quick photo before the opening ceremony.

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Pictured front to back are Rise Stillman, Moshe Bukshpan, Leslie Feldman and Rodney Glassman on the first row at the House of Representatives.

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with stories about the successes and failures of the past season, encouraging them to follow the team’s example in their role as public servants by “doing what’s best for the team, not for your own individual stats, not for your career,” Arizona House Concurrent Resolution 2009 voicing the state’s full support for Israel in its war against Hamas was read out to the chamber.

The unanimously adopted resolution states that Arizona and Israel share “spiritual, economic and social ties that bind our societies together” and called for legislators to “reaffirm their support and unwavering commitment to the welfare, security and survival of the Jewish State of Israel.”

It also condemns Hamas for launching “a br utal, unprovoked and highly organized attack on Israel and its citizens on Oct. 7, 2023” and called for legislators to “express their support for Israel’s right to pursue, without interference or condemnation, the elimination of Hamas” as well as to “convey their most heartfelt condolences to all Israeli victims

as well as their families and communities.”

It further states that legislators should aid the United States with “all assistance as may be required to support Israel in its defense against Hamas and all other terrorist organizations” and “support Arizona’s law enforcement community in its efforts to remain vigilant in protecting Israeli Americans, Jewish Americans and all supporters of Israel from acts of crime and unlawful discrimination that tend to manifest in times of turmoil.”

The resolution was roundly applauded but it was former Jewish Republican candidate for Attorney General Rodney Glassman and his hard-to-miss six-footeight-inch frame standing in the front row who led the House in a standing ovation.

According to Glassman, Toma reached out to him and a few other Jewish community members to help craft the resolution and offer support for it. Thus, “it was important to be here to represent the community and say thank you,” he told Jewish News. The fact that Toma included the resolution on opening day

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identifying problems to address. They take the initiative to lead and support the community.”

The Zemels arrived in Phoenix 51 years ago from New York. “When we got here, we jumped right in and started participating in different Jewish organizations because we felt a need to get involved,” said Barbara.

“One of the organizations was the Jewish Federation (of Greater Phoenix) and we became very involved. We weren’t asked; we just volunteered and joined.” The couple are members of Congregation Or Tzion in Scottsdale.

Through their connection to Federation, they became involved in Hillel right from the start and it became their “number one passion.”

“Last year, we had a wonderful honor from Hillel,” said Barry. “They instituted the Barton Lee Memorial Pillar Award, which I think is wonderful to honor him, and we were the first recipients.”

The late Rabbi Barton Lee was Hillel at Arizona State University’s first full-time professional staff member as rabbi and executive director for 42 years before he retired in 2014. Lee passed away in 2021.

“The Zemels have been true friends to Hillel, and to so many community organizations, for decades,” said Debbie Yunker Kail, executive director of Hillel Jewish Student Center at Arizona State University. “Something special about the Zemels is the frequency with which they offer help before I can even ask!”

She explained that the roof started leaking at Hillel during her first year there.

There were no extra funds to replace or repair it but the Zemels came to the rescue.

A few years later, they approached her

again, asking what building improvements they could make, and Hillel ended up with a much-needed refresh to its student lounge and prayer space.

“These are just two of many stories I could tell about the sheer generosity of the Zemels. They have quite literally supported the infrastructure of our facility, so we can support the next generation of Jewish leaders. They give with their whole hearts and it’s an honor to be their friend,” she said.

When asked what her most significant achievement is, Barbara said her work with Magen David Adom, Israel’s paramedic and Red Cross service organization. For 20 years she was co-chair with Jay Bycer of the Phoenix chapter of American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA).

“We tried to educate the community about what Magen David Adom does and we produced six concerts,” said Barbara.

“We were very proud of the work we did.

I feel that’s my biggest accomplishment.”

“There would be no Arizona chapter today without the Bycers and Zemels,” says Catherine Reed, chief executive officer of AFMDA, in a statement when they were honored in 2022. “We are grateful for their dedicated and tireless efforts for 20 years on behalf of Magen David Adom and its 30,000 EMTs and paramedics. They are role models who practice the mitzvah of tzedakah daily.”

Barry explained their giving criteria comes down to what they feel passionate about, with Jewish education being high on the list, but they don’t support big institutions. “We contribute to, and we support, a lot of different things,” added Barbara.

He said he was proud to fund a project with Phoenix Children’s Hospital, a “hospital on wheels.” “This hospital on

wheels goes to around 14 stops to help shelters and the homeless,” said Barry.

“That’s a great achievement to be able to help out the community.”

“The Zemel name is synonymous with community impact across the Valley and beyond,” says Len Gutman, vice president of philanthropy for Jewish Family and Children’s Service. “Barbara and Barry have been supporting us for more than 30 years and have been supporting our subsidiary, Sojourner Center, for just as long. They truly care about the issues faced in the civic sector and focus their philanthropy where it is needed most.”

The Sojourner Center provides shelter and support services to thousands of women, men, children and pets affected by domestic and sexual violence.

Other Jewish organizations also shared their appreciation of the Zemels.

Rabbi Michael Beyo, East Valley Jewish Community Center CEO, said, “Barry and Barbara Zemel have been great supporters of the East Valley JCC for many years.

We are very grateful for their support and trust in the past, present and future of our community and leadership. The EVJCC board of directors and professional team wish the Zemels health and happiness.”

Ellen Widoff, co-president Brandeis National Committee Phoenix Chapter, expressed her gratitude for Barbara’s support of its annual event. “Barbara has been a long-time supporter of our Book & Author luncheon, which provides most of our financial support to Brandeis University’s initiatives. We are very grateful for her sustained commitment to our signature event,” she said.

Ellen Friedman Sacks, executive director of Jewish Free Loan, added, “Barbara and Barry Zemel are very special friends of Jewish Free Loan and wonderfully

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was unique and exciting, Glassman said.

“At the end of the day, every member of the State House knows the difference between right and wrong and wants the opportunity to condemn rapists and murderers and support the Jewish state.”

Arizona State University (ASU) President Michael Crow was also one of those who stood.

“I thought it was a good resolution,” he told Jewish News. “Hamas has been an international terrorist organization for almost 30 years and should be condemned and that’s the focus of the resolution. What we need is a resolution to the war and a solution to what led to the war.”

ASU has experienced a few clashes between students advocating for Israel and for Palestine that have been in the news but Crow called them “isolated” and said “the campus is safe and, in general, people’s right to free speech is 4

JANUARY 19, 2024

"AS A JEWISH DEMOCRAT I AM PROUD TO VOTE YES ON LEGISLATION THAT MAKES CLEAR ARIZONANS STAND UNITED WITH THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL." REP. SETH BLATTMAN (LD-9)

being protected.”

Though the resolution — a nonbinding expression of legislative opinion requiring a majority vote to pass but not the governor’s signature — passed without objection on Monday, it was structured so that no individual votes were recorded.

Rep. Seth Blattman (LD-9) told Jewish News in a text message that “as a Jewish Democrat I am proud to vote yes on legislation that makes clear Arizonans stand united with the people of Israel,” and confirmed the uniqueness of conducting legislative business on

opening day. “Leaders of the body thought the issue was important enough to waive the rules and push it forward in order to show solidarity with the Jewish community.”

Before and after the session, dozens of people gathered outside the House protesting the resolution, some of whom got into shouting matches with the resolution’s supporters. One of the groups opposed was the Tucson-based Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), who called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Jessica Burke from Phoenix is not an official member of JVP but supports its

JEWISH NEWS

dedicated and impactful leaders for the Jewish community. We are grateful for their support and the example that they continue to set for future generations.

Mazel tov on this much-deserved honor.”

Barry explained that service to the community has to come from the heart.

“It’s something you have to feel; that you are part of the community, and you have to give back. That’s what we do.”

“I really feel that people have a responsibility to support their Jewish community, or there won’t be a Jewish community,” added Barbara.

Community organizations honored with the Belle Latchman Community Service Awards this year are Friends of Israel Scouts – Tzofim and Fruitful.

In Arizona, Friends of Israel Scouts – Tzofim promotes Jewish and Israeli identity, Zionism, friendship, independence, leadership and a deep connection to Israel. Its programs provide a supportive and inclusive environment for Jewish youth to learn, grow and develop important life skills.

Fruitful is a Phoenix-based support group for those navigating the challenges of infertility. It provides community, education and emotional support to those striving to build their families.

The Lee Amada and Sy Clark Young Leadership Awards are bestowed upon young leaders who actively make a difference in our community. Receiving these awards are Jonny Basha, Ashley Rubio Levine and Blaine Light. JN For more information, visit phoenixcjp.org/ spark24.

Jewish News is published by the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix, a component of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix.

message by wearing it on her clothing.

“As a Jewish person who has more access and more rights in the land of Palestine than Palestinians, I’ve always been conscious of what’s happening.

When Oct. 7 happened, I knew the response was going to be bad and I felt the need to get involved with other activists,” she told Jewish News.

After trying to converse with a woman with an opposing viewpoint because “I think people agree on more than they realize but people get defensive and aren’t willing to listen, and that hurts my heart,” the two were overwhelmed by the resolutions defenders and opponents angrily yelling at them and hurling accusations of genocide at one another.

“Nobody’s for genocide but people just walk by and make ignorant comments,” she said with tears in her eyes, overwhelmed by the day’s tension. JN To read the complete resolution, go to legiscan. com/AZ/text/HCR2009/2024.

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Alessandra Sachs: A Jew in blue SHANNON LEVITT | STAFF WRITER

A

lessandra Sachs, a world-traveling Jewish polyglot and former professional soccer player, is finally living out one of her lifelong dreams: being a cop.

Since Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, many Jewish leaders in Greater Phoenix have praised police responses to any incident of antisemitism.

Growing up in Brazil, Sachs really wanted to be a police officer, but women weren’t permitted in the military or law enforcement at that time. Eventually, her athleticism and interests took her on a very different path, landing her a spot on the Brazil women’s national soccer team for 11 years. Only years later did she have the opportunity to realize her childhood dream.

It’s not surprising that someone who grew up in a peripatetic household — her father’s job required the family to move several times to several countries, including the United States — would evolve varied interests, mostly around sports and physical activity.

Sachs’ Jewish Egyptian father fell victim in the late 1950s to Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser’s campaign to strip citizenship and expel the “Mutamassirun” (Egyptianized) people in the country, which included the Jews, Greeks, Italians, Syro-Lebanese, Armenians and any others Nasser considered to be foreign.

That is a big part of why Sachs wears her Jewish identity proudly.

Her parents moved to Arizona in the 1990s, and she grew to love the state on her family visits. She moved to Greater Phoenix around 2000 and her first job in the Jewish community was as a physical education teacher for Scottsdale’s King David School (before it became Pardes Jewish Day School). She then worked as the sports director for the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center (VOSJCC).

Though raised to be a proud Jew, she

lived in a secular household and remained unaffiliated. However, “working at the school and at The J really brought out my Judaism again and reminded me how much I love being Jewish and the Jewish religion,” she said.

She also became a member of Valley Leadership, a nonprofit focused on developing leaders in Arizona. While participating in one of its public safety programs that took place at the Phoenix Police Academy a few years ago, she met a police lieutenant in the Phoenix Police Department. He listened while she gushed about how fun and cool it was to watch the cadets in action and told him how she had longed to become a cop as a kid.

He shrugged his shoulders and told her it wasn’t too late to apply. Dumbfounded, she looked at him and said, “Oh, I’m too old! I’m in my 40s,” thinking he was complimenting her youthful appearance. That wasn’t it at all. It turned out that Arizona doesn’t have an age limit for police. As long as a person can pass the physical and other requirements, anyone can become a cop.

Determined to train for the academy, Sachs had two advantages: She had already proven herself as a professional athlete; and she worked for the VOSJCC developing youth and sports programs, in addition to working as the sports director. Because she was already working in Scottsdale, she applied to, and was accepted by, the Scottsdale Police Academy in 2018.

Sadly, she had a bit of bad luck when she partially tore her Achilles tendon while at the academy and had to be put on light duty. While her injury kept her from becoming an officer, she could still join the department as a police aide, a job she loves. She concentrates on crime prevention, and though she doesn’t carry a gun or make arrests, she does much of

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Alessandra Sachs has achieved her childhood dream of joining the police force. Pictured from left: Veronica Piper (Sachs’ wife), Sachs, Joalis Sachs (Sachs’ mother), Rose Welsh (Sachs’ mother-in-law), Hannah Piper and Madison Piper (Sachs’ daughters).

COURTESY OF ALESSANDRA SACHS

the same work as any other police officer.

“We do 90% of all that an officer does, like taking reports and going to the scene of accidents,” she said. However, her favorite part of the job is engaging with the community, which is the main reason she chose to work in Scottsdale.

“I chose Scottsdale because I did ridealongs with Scottsdale P.D. and realized they do community policing, so the amount of support we have is amazing — we have a really good solid relationship with our community.”

She loves working with everyone from young school students to senior citizens.

For example, she is currently in charge of a leadership program for fourth and fifth graders in various Scottsdale schools to teach conflict resolution. The students are able to use that knowledge at recess with the younger kids for whom they are role models.

“A second grader really does idolize fourth and fifth graders and think they’re the coolest,” she said. Therefore, when an older kid explains it’s better to resolve an argument with a quick game of rock, paper, scissors than fisticuffs, “it comes across way better.”

“I love being Jewish and one of the things in Judaism that I love is tikkun olam. Repairing the world is what I do when I create these programs,” she said.

She also participates in senior walks, where she and some of her colleagues walk around the neighborhood together.

Many seniors are afraid that someone will take advantage of them if they are alone.

“The walks are an opportunity to talk about personal safety, how to spot

JEWISH NEWS

scams and help them be less afraid,” she said. While she acknowledged that some people are afraid of the police, and there are bad actors in the profession, most cops get into the job because they want to help people.

“What I love about law enforcement is what I do now, which is bringing the community together and helping it understand what we do — I just love that connection with the community,” she said.

Scottsdale P.D. has a good relationship with the VOSJCC and the various synagogues in town, she said. She has only responded to one act of vandalism that involved a store painted with swastikas, although it wasn’t owned by a Jew. She’s sometimes requested to speak to Jewish audiences about policing and “I always tell people, no matter what religion you are, no matter who you are, you have to have personal safety.” She also points out what is uncomfortable vs. illegal.

“If people stand on a corner saying, ‘Free Palestine,’ is that upsetting? Yes. Are they allowed to do it? Yes. As long as they’re not putting their hands on you or doing anything physical to you,” she said.

It’s advice to herself as well. During a protest over the murder of George Floyd, she was called by someone who thought her car had been stolen, but Sachs was able to find it. When the owner came to claim the vehicle, Sachs pointed to the bumper, which had anti-police stickers on it, and said calmly, ‘You might want to rethink those,’ bade her farewell and shrugged it off. Just another day on the job. JN JEWISHAZ.COM

HEADLINES LOCAL

Jewish Free Loan helps provide $3.3 million loan for humanitarian needs in Israel PHYLLIS BRAUN | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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he International Association of Jewish Free Loans (IAJFL) and 17 member agencies in the U.S. have provided over $3.3 million in an interest-free loan for emergency financial assistance to Israeli individuals and families.

Jewish Free Loan (JFL) Phoenix raised funds to contribute $36,000 to the effort, said Ellen Friedman Sacks, JFL Phoenix executive director and IAJFL immediate past president.

Since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing some 1,200 people, wounding thousands of others and taking more than 240 hostages, Israel has been in a state of emergency. The war against Hamas has thrown Israel’s economy into turmoil, with more than 360,000 reservists called to active duty, away from their jobs and families. Small business owners across the country, especially in the south near Gaza, are unable to conduct business as usual.

Ogen, a nonprofit social lending enterprise in Israel, has launched a Swords of Iron Emergency Relief Fund in response.

Ogen is providing interest-free loans to assist tens of thousands of Israelis who are having difficulty meeting their basic needs.

Loans are supporting those who: • Lost their possessions or their homes in the terrorist attacks.

• Lost their sources of income due to the attacks or the subsequent impacts of war.

• Are living in conflict zones.

“Jewish Free Loan is grateful to the Phoenix Jewish community for their support, which has enabled us to join our free loan colleagues in this important collective effort,” said Sacks. “The interest-free loans that will be provided through this special program will have immediate impact for Israeli households. These funds will then be returned to JFL Phoenix over the next three to five years, which means they will continue to positively impact local Jewish households in the future.”

The Tucson Jewish Free Loan (TJFL) also contributed $36,000 to the effort.

“Normally, Tucson Jewish Free Loan

restricts its loans to residents of Pima, Cochise and Santa Cr uz counties.

However, these are not normal times.

With the help of a matching donor, we were able to send $36,000 to ordinary Israelis of all faiths experiencing acute, immediate hardship,” said Allison Wexler, TJFL executive director.

“I’m incredibly proud of the way that IAJFL and its member agencies are supporting Israelis in this time of crisis,” said Tim Grossman, IAJFL president and treasurer of the Hebrew Free Loan Association of San Antonio. “We’re all one Jewish community, and the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel were attacks on all of us. Partnering with Ogen on this emergency relief effort is a meaningful way for the free loan community to help civilians in Israel right now.”

“This extraordinary support from our IAJFL sister agencies in the U.S. is heartwarming and extremely valuable. Ogen has been overwhelmed with demand since we launched our emergency campaign on Oct. 23,” said Eldan Kaye, Ogen’s vice

Ellen Friedman Sacks

COURTESY OF JEWISH FREE LOAN PHOENIX

Allison Wexler

COURTESY OF TUCSON JEWISH FREE LOAN

president of development and partnerships.

Kaye says the $3.3 million interest-free loan from IAJFL agencies “will make a huge difference enabling us to continue to meet the demand of so many Israelis who have suffered since the brutal attack on Oct. 7.”

“It means a tremendous amount to Ogen to know that we’re all in this together and the international free loan community has our back,” he said. JN For more information, visit jewishfreeloan.org in Phoenix or thefreeloan.org in Tucson.

Phyllis Braun is a freelance writer and editor based in Tucson. A version of this article was originally published by the Arizona Jewish Post.

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JEWISH NEWS

JANUARY 19, 2024

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HEADLINES ARTS

Jewish community ‘Joseph’ production promises ‘explosion of sound, light and vibrancy,’ not to mention destiny SHANNON LEVITT | STAFF WRITER

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hoenicians Alan and Carole Zeichick are passionate lovers and supporters of Jewish music, so much so they have sponsored several musical events at various synagogues around Greater Phoenix, as well as the East Valley Jewish Community Center’s Klezmer Festival.

“We want to expose people to Jewish music and to inspire them,” Alan Zeichick told Jewish News.

Thus, it was par for the course last spring when the Zeichicks spoke with Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) Cantor Seth Ettinger about a community music event on Shabbat Shirah (“Shabbat of Song”) that would involve local cantors.

After mulling over the idea, Ettinger suggested something a bit bigger than their original vision and floated the idea of producing an entire musical staged in CBI’s sanctuary in Scottsdale.

“We have never put on a musical before, and we didn’t even know it was an option, but we were open to the idea,” Zeichick said.

The most exciting moment was when Ettinger suggested “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” the well-known Andrew Lloyd Webber musical based on the Book of Genesis story that the couple hadn’t seen staged in Phoenix since moving to Arizona.

“When he suggested ‘Joseph,’ we jumped out of our seats and said, ‘Yay!’” Ettinger proposed a collaboration between CBI and the Arizona Musical Theatre Orchestra (AZMTO), which began in 2022 as a Facebook group for local actors and musicians. Uniquely, AZMTO rehearses and performs most of its musicals in one day, which is possible because sets and staging are minimal and actors are responsible for their own costumes and allowed to be on book (not fully memorized). Last June,

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JANUARY 19, 2024

Youth choir gets silly during rehearsal for “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at Congregation Beth Israel.

COURTESY OF CANTOR SETH ETTINGER

Ettinger played the lead role in AZMTO’s showcase of “Parade,” a musical about an infamous American antisemitic incident.

Stephen Schermitzler, AZMTO’s founder and director, has been part of CBI’s High Holiday choir, which is where Ettinger met him and discovered their mutual love of musical theater.

Schermitzler liked ‘Joseph’ because of its universal themes, “timeless and enjoyable for everybody,” and because there are “fantastic parts for kids and adults.” The one-night performance will take place at CBI on Jan. 27, and it will be the first AZMTO production involving a youth choir.

The show’s cast consists of roughly 60 people, including approximately 30 kids, and a nine-piece orchestra. Schermitzler, who knows the space well, said there will be room but “it will be a fun test of its limits.” The closeness of the audience to the performers will create “an immersive experience that will make it feel intimate

and be an explosion of sound, light and vibrancy — it will feel really real,” he told Jewish News. “‘Joseph’ is a story of redemption and a reminder that no matter where you are in your life journey, your story is still being written,” Schermitzler said.

Ettinger also loves the musical’s songs and themes, but the “beshert” (or destiny) element is even more exciting given how Joseph’s story aligns with Shabbat Shirah and Parshah Beshalach, that week’s Torah portion. Moses carried Joseph’s bones out of Egypt to be buried with his ancestors. The portion contains the “Song of the Sea” (Exodus 15:1–18), sung by the Israelites after passing safely through the Red Sea. Thus, it became the “first national anthem of the Israelite people,” Ettinger said.

Ettinger will join Temple Chai Cantor Ross Wolman, Temple Kol Ami Cantor Noa Shaashua, Temple Solel Cantorial Soloist Todd Herzog and Congregation Or Tzion Cantor Dannah Rubinstein in singing pieces based on the “Song of the Sea” after Havdalah, before “Joseph” begins, at intermission and after the show wraps.

“It’s an honor to be part of a community musical event; it’s important to make time in our schedules to come together for the sake of story and song,” Wolman told Jewish News via text.

None of the cantors will perform in the show itself, but it was always pivotal to the night that they participate, especially for Zeichick, who “loves cantors.”

“We always keep in touch with the cantors and want to know if they’re doing special musical stuff because we want to support it.”

The Zeichicks will pay for the set up and

JEWISH NEWS

Cantor Seth Ettinger as Pharaoh during a production of ‘Joseph’ in Los Angeles in 2018.

COURTESY OF CANTOR SETH ETTINGER

the ticket sales will go to AZMTO, musical programming at CBI and underwriting the next Jewish community concert.

“We can’t organize something like this ourselves,” Zeichick said. “We told Cantor Ettinger, ‘You do it and we’ll pay for it,’” something Ettinger said was a huge compliment and that it made him feel very good to know this work is so meaningful to so many people.

Ettinger called this the “culmination of his initial vision of CBI being a host to the whole interfaith community of Phoenix. We need to come together as a community in order to put on something amazing like this.”

The Zeichicks are members of Phoenix’s Temple Chai, but they think of themselves first as members of the Jewish community.

“Temple Chai is our home but I love all ‘my children’ — all the synagogues, the rabbis and the cantors. I want to do things with all of them,” Zeichick said.

Ettinger hopes that ‘Joseph’ will draw people nervous about coming to a temple since Oct. 7.

“At the end of 2023, our dreams of a people were crushed and what our hope is, especially over the past months of resilience, is that we will be able to build an even brighter, stronger dream in 2024 for a bright future for the Jewish people and Israel. That’s really what this is — a beautiful moment to be together and get some renewed pride and hope,” he said. JN For ticket information, go to swrorpswre.formstack. com/forms/joseph_dreamcoat_concert.

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HEADLINES ARTS

Local director of ‘Anne Frank’ wants kids to feel ‘looming danger’ MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

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n Jan. 24 at 2 p.m., there will be a special public performance of “The Diar y of Anne Frank” at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. The production is a partnership Jodie Weiss COURTESY OF JODIE WEISS between the Bridge Initiative, a women-led artistic collective that uses theater and media to build bridges in the community, and Childsplay, a local professional theater with familyfriendly productions along with arts education for youth, which is doing several performances for schools in addition to the one performance open to the public.

Arizona native Jodie Weiss is directing the play. She first connected with Childsplay as an actor in 1985. After living in California for 15 years, she returned to the state with her two sons to be close to her family after the death of her husband.

She also returned to Childsplay. “I’m their full-time events coordinator, but I keep my foot in the door with all the creative stuff whenever I can,” said Weiss.

Childsplay has an ensemble of full-time actors, but Weiss fills in when needed.

She also takes charge of sharing Jewish traditions with others in the theater. Weiss converted to Judaism in her late 20s while living in San Diego and belonged to Congregation Beth El in La Jolla. She and fellow Jew Jenny Millinger, Childsplay’s associate artistic director, bring matzah ball soup and latkes to the staff.

She likes to bring in food and share the traditions for Chanukah or explain why she and Millinger take time off for High Holy Days. “When you convert, you often study the history, religion, faith, traditions and culture even more than when you’re born into it,” said Weiss.

Childsplay was committed to having a Jewish director for its production of “The Diary of Anne Frank,” and since Weiss also has experience directing, they extended the opportunity to her.

“I was thrilled,” she said.

Weiss also has a connection to The Bridge Initiative, a women-led artistic collective that uses theater and media to build bridges in the community, which is partnering with Childsplay on the production.

She initially met Brenda Foley, producing executive director with The Bridge Initiative, at an event when they both were on stage making presentations to grant recipients. Afterward, Foley learned of her event planning experience and contacted Weiss to help her with a fundraising gala.

“I helped with their first three mini galas and with their silent auction to raise money for their group,” said Weiss. “It was interesting; I connected (with them) through my events, as opposed to being an actor, and I’ve directed for them several times.”

The school performances Weiss will direct are geared toward middle and high school students. Under a bill signed by then-Governor Doug Ducey in 2021,

schools must teach the events of the Holocaust and other genocides twice between grades seven and 12.

“We are thrilled to be able to fill that need and especially in a creative way because creative learning like that sticks with a person — for 99% of people — much longer than just reading it in a book,” said Weiss.

She has spent time thinking about how to present the topic of the Holocaust to the students in a way they could identify with, and the #MeToo movement came to mind. “I want them to realize this can happen to them. Are you a part of any kind of fringe group? Are you LGBTQ+?

Are you a different color other than white? Are you other than white cisgender? Then this could happen to you, too,” she said.

The challenge was to help them realize that without scaring them too much, to get the point across strongly enough but not so strongly that they shut down SEE ANNE FRANK PLAY, PAGE 10

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JANUARY 19, 2024

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HEADLINES ARTS

Klezmer concert at Beth El isn’t your mother’s klezmer music, but it might be your great-grandmother’s SHANNON LEVITT | STAFF WRITER

M

ost modern American fans of klezmer, an instrumental musical tradition of Eastern European Ashkenazic Jews, expect certain sounds and melodies when they attend a klezmer concert, typically the cadences and ornamentation forged in 20th-century New York and Philadelphia.

However, a series of concerts this month in Greater Phoenix will offer klezmer connoisseurs a new take on the musical tradition — or, more precisely, an old one.

“Trampled Manuscripts: The Lost Klezmer Music of the An-Ski Expeditions’’ will introduce listeners to the KiselgofMakonovetsky archive, filled with centuryold songs that have been, for all intents and purposes, lost to the general public, kept inside the Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine and only recently revealed to experts at the Klezmer Institute in New York.

Phoenix’s Little Chef Klezmer Band is partnering with Christina Crowder, co-founder and executive director of the Klezmer Institute, on a series of gigs and workshops to spotlight the newly-rediscovered Ukrainian klezmer repertoire. The

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For more information: www.brandeisphoenix.org 10

JANUARY 19, 2024

culminating concert will take place at Beth El Phoenix on Sunday, Jan. 28.

“People are used to American klezmer but what we’re playing is from Europe and has its own particular and unexpected flavor,” Crowder told Jewish News. “There’s this great richness of things from simple melodies to elaborate show pieces that connect to a whole ritual universe of a Jewish community in that space and in that time that is now lost.”

The world in which this music was written and performed included week-long weddings and other ceremonial traditions that are very different 100 years later.

Hearing the music offers an audience “an aural view into a world that’s novel to us, rich and evocative, as well as a thread of connection that makes us think, ‘That could have been what my greatgrandparents played at their wedding,’” Crowder said.

“It’s a snapshot into a world that was irrevocably changed.”

Daniel Stein Kokin founded Beth El’s “Chamber in the Chapel” concert series last year, and klezmer was always on his list of ideas, so he was delighted when Max Schwimmer, Little Chef’s Klezmer Band’s leader and saxophonist, suggested “Trampled Manuscripts,” he told Jewish News in an email.

“Especially at times of deep crisis like the present, we need to celebrate Jewish culture and allow music to enter into and soothe our souls,” Stein Kokin said.

The story of how the 100-year-old handwritten klezmer music manuscripts from Ukraine and Belarus — originally gathered as part of S. An-ski’s (Shloyme Zaynvl Rapoport) ethnographic expedition into the Jewish Pale of Settlement in the early 20th century — came back into the public domain starts in the unlikely nation of Japan in the spring of 2017.

Walter Zev Feldman, Crowder’s colleague and fellow klezmer scholar, was in Tokyo giving lectures and workshops on aspects of Ashkenazi Jewish culture.

A Japanese student writing a thesis on ANNE FRANK PLAY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

because it’s too much to handle. Weiss focused on the student’s ability to connect with Frank as a teenager, those scenes that portray her coming of age, having trouble with her mother, falling in love and sharing a first kiss.

“All those relatable moments I feel are so important for them to think, ‘Oh, that’s me. That’s me up there,’” she said.

The Little Chef Klezmer Band has performed at public and private events throughout Greater Phoenix since 2022.

COURTESY OF MIKE BELTRAN

Christina Crowder, a leading researcher and performer of klezmer music, is in Phoenix as part of the “Trampled Manuscripts’’ international residency touring program.

COURTESY OF CHRIS MACKE

klezmer music for Jewish weddings and her Ukrainian friend studying for a Ph.D. in computational linguistics came to one of Feldman’s workshops. Because both are klezmer musicians, they conversed with him afterward and offered to show him home on the subway.

That’s when Feldman told Anna, the Ukrainian student, about the archive and convinced her she should go to the Vernadsky Library when she eventually went back home to Kyiv. As a bonus, she took a letter from her Japanese friend’s university requesting access to the library. While Anna didn’t speak Yiddish, she was able to negotiate permission to photograph the archive’s Yiddish catalog of the material and sent the photos to Feldman, who was in Israel. He was able to read it and instruct her which numbers in the catalog to ask for. She paid to have 850 high-quality digital images from the notebooks, loaded onto a data stick that she sent to the Klezmer Institute.

So began a collaborative volunteer project to make the materials digitally available to musicians around the world. The collection contains 1,400 tunes, of which 1,250 have been notated. Crowder is collaborating with local klezmer musicians worldwide to share the Kiselgof-Makonovetsky Digital Manuscript Project with the world.

“This music has been sitting behind the

wall of this archive and it’s amazing that it survived and was protected. But there’s no reason why this should not be returned to its inheritors because this is the culture of the Jewish people. This belongs to the klezmorim of today, the descendants of the klezmorim who wrote this music down all these years ago,” Crowder said.

She pointed out that another exciting challenge with the project is that there are no recordings, so “we have to bring all of our knowledge, creativity and collective wisdom to find a way to interpret it.”

Schwimmer, who is doing some of that interpreting, is excited for the opportunity to talk with Crowder about her ideas and how other musicians have been approaching it.

“We can’t go on Spotify and find recordings of this music yet, so it’s a chance for us to be able to learn and come up with the interpretations of this music,” he told Jewish News. JN

Weiss also said that since it’s a pareddown production, without a huge set, she always intends to have the Nazis’ presence lurking in the background as an ever-present danger to the family as they continue their day-to-day life in the annex. If she directs the production again next year, ideally, she would like to bring the audience onto the stage, to feel close, like they are in the annex and hear the Nazis’ footsteps walking around them.

“We get to see Anne going through those life events but always with this looming danger, which is happening right now in our world. Whether they (the students) get it on that level or not … hopefully, they will still feel that looming danger,” said Weiss. JN

JEWISH NEWS

To register for the concert, go to BethelPhoenix. com/trampled-manuscripts-2024.

“Trampled Manuscripts” Phoenix residency project is funded by a grant from the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix, with additional support from ASU Jewish Studies and the East Valley Jewish Community Center. Jewish News is published by the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix, a component of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix.

For more information, scottsdaleperformingarts.org/events/.

visit

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HEADLINES COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Temple Chai hosts Tu B’Shevat Eco-Fest with 15 green vendors On Sunday, Jan. 21, Temple Chai in Phoenix will host a Tu B’Shevat EcoFest, where 15 environmentally-friendly vendors will be able to share information about conserving water, composting, recycling, solar and why trees matter.

“We haven’t done anything quite like this before with our eco events,” said Nona Siegel, a founding member of Temple Chai’s Eco Chai group. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group took a bit of a hiatus but last year it reignited with a recycling and composting project on Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the Trees. Considered a minor holiday with no prescribed mitzvot, it is often celebrated by planting trees locally or in Israel. But with concern over global warming in the past few decades, it has

become thought of as Jewish Earth Day. “By adding the vendors it is a new focus this year,” Siegel said.

The event is open and free to the public and runs from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

During the temple’s Sunday school, students will get to talk to a City of Phoenix Zero Waste team representative, who will talk to them about recycling. They will do an art project cutting old t-shirts into strips, braiding them and then those braids will be sewn into rugs and donated to unsheltered people for sleep mats.

They will also have a “kindness tree” for the kids to write words of kindness onto paper leaves and attach them to the tree in the spirit of the holiday.

During the Eco Fest, vendors will be on hand representing various projects, from

solar panels and Lomi home composters to worm castings and bra recyclers.

“Between the worms and the bras, people have to be interested in this,” Siegel quipped.

People can bring gently used bras as well as electronics to be recycled.

Westech Recyclers will have a representative equipped to wipe all data from old electronics if people don’t know how to do it themselves.

Volunteers will provide a vegan no-nut nosh with small bites, fruits, vegetables and vegan sweets.

Siegel hopes to see a big turnout. “You can’t have gone through last summer without noticing that climate change is real. There’s a tipping point of interest now and people are ready to make some

Malka Wolman, left, and Nona Siegel, right, stand with DOTI before the recycling/composting cart in front of Temple Chai before Tu B’Shevat in 2023.

COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS

changes,” she said. JN For more information, go to jewishphoenix.com/ events/temple-chai-tu-bshevat-eco-fest/ .

Brandeis to host 2024 Book & Author event next month On Friday, Feb. 2, the Brandeis National Committee Phoenix Chapter will host its annual Book & Author event at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa, Scottsdale.

This year six acclaimed authors, including two National Book Award winners and Pulitzer Prize finalists, will be headlining the event.

Alice McDermott, the author of nine novels, winner of the National Book Award and finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, will be on hand to talk about her latest novel “Absolution,” which was an instant New York Times bestseller.

Jennet Conant is an American nonfiction author and journalist, who has written seven books about World War II, four of which have appeared on the

New York Times Best Seller list. She will discuss her most recent biography, “Fierce Ambition: The Life and Legend of War Correspondent Maggie Higgins.”

David Rosenfelt is a best-selling, Edgar Award-nominated and Shamus Awardwinning author in the mystery and thriller genre. He will present his latest book, “Twas the Bite Before Christmas.”

Talia Carner, an Israeli-born novelist, is the former publisher of Savvy Woman magazine and a consultant to Fortune 500 companies. She is long established as one of the strongest voices in Jewish historical fiction, and will present her latest novel, “The Boy with the Star Tattoo.”

Liza Mundy, an award-winning journalist and the New York Times-bestselling author of five books, will discuss her lat-

est work, “The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA,” which sheds light on the little-known frustrations, triumphs and compromises of the women of the C.I.A. Tim O’Brien, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and National Book Award winner, will present his latest, “America Fantastica: A Novel,” which was named one of fall 2023’s most anticipated books by New York Times, Associated Press, Esquire, Kirkus and others. His 2005 book, “The Things They Carried,” was named by the New York Times as one of the 22 best books of the last quarter century.

This year’s moderator is Amy Silverman, executive producer of “The Show” on National Public Radio. Silverman is a journalist, author and teacher from

Pictured clockwise from top left: Liza Mundy, Tim O’Brien, Alice McDermott, David Rosenfelt, Jennet Conant and Talia Carner.

COURTESY OF BRANDEIS NATIONAL COMMITTEE, PHOENIX CHAPTER

Phoenix, and is a three-time winner of the Arizona Press Club’s Journalist of the Year award, most recently for “State of Denial.” JN For more information, visit brandeisphoenix.org.

AZ legislature committee meets about antisemitism On Tuesday Dec. 12, the Arizona state House’s Ad Hoc Committee on Antisemitism in Education, a bipartisan group of legislators, heard for more than four hours from Jewish people, both local community members and representatives of international organizations, about possible examples of antisemitism in the state’s K-12 schools and universities and pondered what, if anything, could be done about it.

Tom Horne, the Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction, who is Jewish, told the committee that part of his job is “to fight antisemitism and all forms of hatred.” He recounted his belief that UNICEF and Amnesty International have disseminated “one-sided and outrageous” materials to students who wish to support Palestinians in Gaza that make Jewish students feel unsafe in that they are critical of Israel’s military campaign.

However, he did not blame the students,

whom he called a “tabula rasa” that “do whatever they’re told,” who were presented the materials on their lunch hour at a Scottsdale high school.

Horne suggested that the legislature could curtail what he described as “hate speech” without infringing on free speech, but was rebuffed by Rep. Alexander Kolodin (LD-3), a Scottsdale Republican, who is also Jewish, and a self-described “free speech absolutist.”

“This is a country where, in order for me to be free, I have to protect their right to say things that I hate,” he said, making it clear that he believes hate speech is protected by the First Amendment.

Kolodin suggested cutting state funding to “genocidal, Neo-Nazi, pro-Hamas organizations” instead. Horne rejoined that it was not yet within his power to do that. Kolodin also proposed that students should be free to carry guns on campus to protect themselves. Arizona law currently

bans firearms on school grounds.

Chabad at Arizona State University Rabbi Shmuel Tiechtel also spoke to the committee. In his 20 years at ASU, “the students never felt the way they’re feeling now,” he said. Previously, he’s always felt secure telling worried parents that there are no real issues of antisemitism on campus. Since Oct. 7, many Jewish students have reported feeling “uncomfortable.” He did give credit to the ASU administration, which he said had shown itself to care about the issues of the Jewish students.

Tiechtel brought some students with him to speak for themselves. One student, Aleeza Feffer, reported that she “felt it was unsafe to walk alone on campus as a Jewish woman,” after being approached by a group of students who chanted “Free Palestine” at her when they saw she was wearing a t-shirt that said, “I love being Jewish.”

Rep. Alexander Kolodin (LD-3). SCREENSHOT FROM AZLEG.GOV

Rabbi Pinchas Allouche of Scottsdale’s Congregation Beth Tefillah also spoke to the committee.

“We are hated for our race,” Allouche said. “We are hated for our state. But make no mistake, anti-Zionism is antisemitism.” JN To view the committee hearing, visit azleg.gov.

SEE BRIEFS, PAGE 12 JEWISHAZ.COM

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HEADLINES COMMUNITY BRIEFS BRIEFS

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Hillel at ASU’s assistant director receives honor from Hillel International Taylor M. Silverman, Hillel at Arizona State University’s assistant director, was among the Hillel professionals honored

by Hillel International for their exemplary efforts in supporting and welcoming vibrant Jewish life at colleges and universities during the 2023 Hillel International Global Assembly.

Silverman was named the Richard M. Joel Exemplar of Excellence, which honors professionals who exemplify the legacy of Hillel’s former president and CEO by embracing the organization’s stated mission of connecting with students, colleagues and stakeholders with enthusiasm and dedication.

Silverman has led ASU Hillel’s Student Impact Team to new heights, including a 50% increase in student engagement during her four-year tenure. She is known by staff and students alike for her “commitment to individual growth, leadership, connection to Israel and Jewish joy,” according to a Hillel at ASU press release.

Originally from the San Fernando Valley, Silverman received a B.A. in psychology from Sonoma State University and holds a master’s of social work from USC and a master’s of Jewish nonprofit management from Hebrew Union College — Jewish Institute of Religion.

“Taylor models seeking clarity in one’s

own growth, and inspires the same in others. Because of these strengths, she has become an indispensable thought partner and friend to student leaders, our senior leadership and movement-wide colleagues alike,” said Debbie Yunker Kail, Hillel at ASU’s executive director.

“Jewish students have faced unprecedented challenges on college campuses this fall, and Taylor has gone above and beyond to protect, educate, inspire and sustain their Jewish student communities in this fraught period,” said Adam Lehman, Hillel International president and CEO. “Every Hillel, including at Arizona State University, has stepped up

Taylor M. Silverman

SCREENSHOT OF HILLEL AT ASU WEBSITE

in their own meaningful way to provide a home away from home for its Jewish community on campus, at a time when students need us more than ever.” JN For more information, visit hillelasu.org.

JFCS, 2023 ACE Awards Community Impact winner, welcomes two new board members Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) is the 2023 Arizona Corporate Excellence (ACE) Community Impact winner, which is hosted by the Phoenix Business Journal. JFCS was also recognized as one of the top nonprofits in Arizona.

“We feel like we contribute to helping the community in a lot of different ways,” said Dr. Lorrie Henderson, CEO of JFCS, in a press release. “When we’re able to maintain kids and families in the home or we’re able to maintain individuals with significant mental illness, when we’re able to provide transitional housing and emergency shelter for women and children that need to get out of an abusive relationship — all those things actually help.”

Last month, JFCS appointed two new board members. Analise Ortiz and Peter Moraga were confirmed during the organization’s December board meeting and will each serve a three-year term.

“Jewish Family & Children’s Service is where it is today thanks in large part to volunteer leaders who give their time and expertise selflessly and to improve the community we all call home,” said Henderson. “As the latest additions to our board, Analise and Peter will contribute distinct perspectives to our organization. They join a seasoned and diverse board that remains steadfast in guiding us toward the future.”

Or tiz is the founder of Or tiz Communications, a communications

consulting firm where she leads her clients’ communications strategies including social media management, media relations and campaign strategy development.

Ortiz is also a member of the Arizona House of Representatives, elected in November 2022 to represent District 24 comprising Maryvale and Glendale.

Moraga is a senior client executive at Experian and is responsible for account development and growth for Experian’s strategic partners across business information, financial services and startups entering the consumer credit space. Moraga is a graduate of Arizona State University Ortiz and Moraga will join current board members chair Janice Dinner, vice chair Edward Ober, secretary Pam

Analise Ortiz and Peter Moraga COURTESY OF JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE

Meyer, Susan Hirshman, Jevin Hodge, Carol Kern, Jennifer Kirshner, Karen Owens, Michael Seiden, Meghan Shapiro, immediate past chairman Dr. Paul E. Stander, Dr. Tamara Zach and emeritus board members Lenore Schupack, Carol Seidberg and Edna Sitelman. JN For more information, visit jfcsaz.org.

ISRAEL Nefesh B’Nefesh closes 2023 with 720 North American olim Nefesh B’Nefesh, in cooperation with Israel’s Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, The Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and Jewish National Fund-USA, has recorded 720 newcomers who arrived in Israel since the onset of the war, with 200 of them landing just in the last week of 2023.

In the last quarter, 4,175 requests to open aliyah files were submitted by individuals and families interested in making Israel their new home, in comparison to 1,985 in 2022. Individuals planning to make aliyah from North America (as opposed to from within Israel as part of the “Guided Aliyah” process) is at a 142% increase compared to last year. Deeper analysis of the data shows the main reason for the increase in aliyah interest is due to Zionism (50%), while the issue of

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antisemitism drives only a small number of the applicants (6%).

“The significant number of new immigrants to Israel during the Iron Swords War and the tremendous increase in requests to open aliyah files are an important demonstration of Zionism and a beautiful expression of solidarity with the country, providing us with a muchneeded boost to our morale,” said Ofir Sofer, minister of Aliyah and Integration.

In total, 3,020 individuals from North America made aliyah in 2023. Among the newcomers who arrived this year with the assistance of Nefesh B’Nefesh are 545 families, 616 children, 958 single men and women and 432 retirees. The average age of olim over the last year is 32 years old, with the oldest being 100 and the youngest a 3-month-old baby.

“Our olim never cease to amaze us as they prove their commitment to fulfilling the Zionist dream of making Israel their home,” said Tony Gelbart, co-founder and chairman of Nefesh B’Nefesh.

The olim who arrived in Israel in 2023 hold a variety of occupations, the most prominent of which is the field of medicine. In 2023, 65 doctors and 28 nurses arrived in Israel, most of whom began the process of converting their medical licenses during the annual Nefesh B’Nefesh ‘MedEx’, established to expedite the license conversion process and enable the medical practitioners to swiftly integrate into Israel society upon their arrival. JN For more information, visit nbn.org.il.

JEWISH NEWS

New arrivals to Israel.

COURTESY OF YONIT SCHILLER

JEWISHAZ.COM

OPINION

Commentary

Loneliness in the beginning of 2024 RABBI BONNIE KOPPELL

D

id you read w h e r e D r.

Ruth Westheimer has a new job? At the age of 95, she was just appointed a s N e w Yo r k ’ s first “loneliness ambassador.” I’m not sure exactly Rabbi Bonnie Koppell COURTESY OF RABBI BONNIE KOPPELL what the job entails or how she is going to go about fulfilling her responsibilities, but the governor was quoted in an Arizona Republic article on Nov. 12, “As New York works to fight the loneliness epidemic, some help from Honorary Ambassador Ruth Westheimer is just what the doctor ordered.” The loneliness epidemic, indeed.

The U.S. Surgeon General addressed the same concern the very next day right here at Arizona State University, noting that “. . . the vast majority of young Americans . . . often experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, which is a common thread . . . at many different universities.” A recent ASU survey found that a stunning 80% “of students feel they have been unable to form meaningful relationships.”

It’s not just a problem for young people.

A national study from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) found that “onequarter of adults 65 years and older are considered socially isolated, and one-third of adults 45 and older are experiencing

loneliness, meaning, according to the study, that they felt alone regardless of the amount of social contact they had.”

Loneliness is a subjective experience and therefore hard to define or measure. It might be surprising to learn that many people who look like they have lots of friends, in fact feel quite lonely.

Researcher Jeremy Nobel invites us to expand our definition. When most people think of the feeling, they think of what Nobel calls psychological or interpersonal loneliness. “Like, ‘Do I have a friend? Do I have someone I can tell my troubles to?’” he says. But there’s also existential loneliness: “Do I fit into the universe?

Does my life have any meaning, purpose, weight, valence, mission?” He finds such questions particularly troublesome for 18- to 24-year-olds, who are, studies have shown, the loneliest group in the country.

The third type of loneliness is societal: “If I enter a room, is my arrival both anticipated and welcomed?”” Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, right?

Between the COVID-19 pandemic and the ever-expanding intrusion of social media, it’s no wonder that we need a loneliness ambassador! Social media was supposed to be a force to connect us, yet too often it has had the opposite effect.

Loneliness is exacerbated by changes in our lives, from losing a job to loss of transportation, to changes in our physical and mental health.

When people ask psychiatrist Robert Waldinger how to improve social relationships, he emphasizes the need to be active. “It’s being the one to reach out,” he said, even when that’s hard to do.

“If you’re feeling worse about yourself or about your life, it can be hard to say, ‘I’m going to call up that friend I haven’t seen in a while.’”

Not so easy to do, yet being a joiner is one of the best ways to overcome loneliness.

And the great news is that being part of a religious community — like Temple Chai, for example — can help us to feel part of something bigger than ourselves and provide a connection to meaningful values. It also reinforces an important part of cultivating relationships, being willing to remain friends with folks who are less than perfect and who may even have opinions that differ from our own!

I recently read a column by Paul Wesslund titled, “In Search of Something Like Church, Americans Are Lonelier than Ever.” He wonders why we still frequent a favorite restaurant after a less than perfect experience and stay loyal to teams “despite a series of boneheaded plays,” yet we are ready to end relationships over differences in perspective.

He describes his experience at church, “Each week I get to listen to choral (and organ) music I don’t hear anywhere else.

I see a group of friends who gather on a moment’s notice for family celebrations or tragedies, to bring food and just be there. I

get to know that I’m part of a community that regularly helps. So, I choose to stay because no person, or institution, is perfect.” What a great attitude and what rich rewards he reaps. Having a sense of meaning and purpose, it turns out, is an antidote to loneliness and a foundation of spiritual life.

The past holiday season can impact our feelings of loneliness in both positive and negative ways. While it can be great to spend time with family and friends, the increased stress on time and money, the disruption to our routines and our sense of exclusion while we perceive that others have full social calendars, mean that this is a time of the year when we need to renew our commitment to maintaining and building our sense of support and connection.

Friendship, it has been said, makes our spirit soar. A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.

How blessed we are to sing together.

As the Torah begins, in the book of Genesis, we get less than 50 verses into the text before God figures out that it is not good for humans to be alone (Gn. 2:18).

We are designed to be in community, to be with people. How blessed we are to be a part of the amazing community here in Phoenix. We are not alone, we have each other. JN Rabbi Bonnie Koppell is the associate rabbi of Temple Chai in Phoenix.

What Jews are feeling now is an inheritance of values — and trauma RABBI DR. TIRZAH FIRESTONE | JTA

A

s we enter 2024, many of us are feeling a sense of uncertainty, even wariness, in our bones.

The events that exploded onto the world stage during the last months of 2023 — the brutal attacks on Israeli Jews by Hamas on Oct. 7, followed

by Israel’s incursion into Gaza and the ensuing rise of antisemitic incidents around the world — have set off waves of shock, grief and apprehension for Jewish people everywhere. As a rabbi and

psychotherapist, I have received many anxious calls and notes.

“I barely identify as Jewish,” one business executive confessed to me over the phone. “Yet I’m unbelievably triggered. Can you help me understand why?”

“For the first time in my life I feel unsafe,” a Jewish student wrote to me.

“I suddenly know what my ancestors felt when they had to hide their true identity.”

“I feel ‘re-traumatized’ by all

COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES VIA JTA

the violence and the resurgence of antisemitism, even though I’ve never directly experienced either one in my lifetime,” a client reported.

Emotions are, by definition, nonrational. But for many of us, our strong reactions to the recent events in and around Israel have felt disproportionate, confusing and sometimes uncanny. One

way to understand this is to see them as having roots in earlier times. In this sense, the attacks on innocent Jews on Oct. 7 reverberate with a kind of biological memory of traumas that we ourselves may never have experienced, but whose residues nevertheless live within us.

Sound like a bubbe mayseh SEE TRAUMA, PAGE 14

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 the Jewish News. Letters must respond to content published by the Jewish News and should be a maximum of 200 words. They may be edited for space and clarity. Unsigned letters will not be published. Letters and op-ed submissions should be sent to editor@jewishaz.com JEWISHAZ.COM

JEWISH NEWS

JANUARY 19, 2024

13

RELIGIOUS LIFE TORAH STUDY

In the daylight we see we are not alone RABBI SARA MASON-BARKIN PARSHAH BO: EXODUS 10:1 - 13:16

T

he Rabbis teach that King David would wake at midnight to study Rabbi Sara Mason-Barkin Torah. Somehow, COURTESY RABBI SARA MASON-BARKIN before the invention of clocks, King David could intuit the precise moment the clock strikes 12.

The Talmud is confounded. How is this possible? Not even Moses knew exactly when the middle of the night was. As it says this week in Parshah Bo: Moses prepares to lead the Israelites out of Egypt ‘k’chatzot halailah’ ‘at about midnight,’ True midnight remains a mystery, shrouded in the dark of night.

Nighttime means different things at different stages of our lives. For young children, the night is a vast unknown.

Midnight is impossibly late and absurdly dark.

As a mother, night becomes an extension TRAUMA

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

(grandmother’s tale)? Or a teaching from an obscure kabbalistic text? In fact, the notion that trauma residues can be transmitted intergenerationally is based on clinical studies in a relatively new field called behavioral epigenetics. These multidecade studies demonstrate that younger generations can be deeply imprinted by the extreme life experiences that their ancestors endured, years before they themselves arrived on the scene.

This means, for example, that Jews whose great-grandparents survived the violence of the Russian pogroms, or whose grandparents hid from the Nazis with little food or light, or whose parents witnessed the bloody Farhud in Iraq in 1941, may carry within them a kind of cellular byproduct of their ancestors’ adverse life experiences. These molecular vestiges hold fast to genetic scaffolding. Though the DNA itself remains unchanged, how those genes express themselves can indeed be affected. Such epigenetic changes may make us more vulnerable to post-traumatic stress disorder, more sensitive to stresses in the environment, and can at times leave us with a predisposition to anxiety or depression.

Because I am more poet than scientist, the following vivid description by journalist Dan Hurley brought epigenetics to life for me. It also struck me as exceedingly Jewish: “Like silt deposited on the cogs of a finely tuned machine after the seawater 14

JANUARY 19, 2024

of daytime tasks and worries. I am always on the edge of wakefulness. I sleep, still ready to jump at the wail of a bad dream or the whimper for a drink of water. The rabbis didn’t need to go on for pages and pages, they could have asked any parent.

We know exactly when midnight is. It is the precise moment that we finally fall into a full slumber, only to wake with a start at the sound of a child’s whimper.

Key moments of the Exodus story are told in the dark. Parshah Bo recalls the death of the first born. “In the middle of the night Adonai struck down all the [male] first born of Pharaoh … And Pharaoh arose in the night, with all his courtiers and all the Egyptians – because there was a loud cry in Egypt; for there was no house where there was not someone dead. He summoned Moses and Aaron in the night and said, “Up, depart from among my people, you and the Israelites with you!”

And it is written, “this was for Adonai a night of vigil to bring them out of the land of Egypt …” (Exodus 12:28-39) At midnight God becomes the watchful parent, sleeplessly worrying about the

children. Like a father who straightens a twisted duvet cover, God parts the sea.

Like a mother who rushes in with a cup of water, God provides manna to soothe their hungry souls. For their long journey through the wilderness God assumes the role of protector, provider and evervigilant guardian.

So, what keeps you up at night?

Perhaps it is stressors in our personal lives that keep us up: Worries about money, health or work. Perhaps it is the current trauma of the Jewish community: Worrying for the hostages held in Gaza or the future promise of peace. We toss and turn, worrying about both the issues that loom large in our world and the micromoments of our lives.

How did King David know to rise exactly at midnight? The rabbis imagine that a harp hung over his bed, and at midnight the north wind would cause it to play all on its own, waking him from his slumber.

How did the Israelites know to leave at midnight? Because God lifted them from their beds with a strong hand and an outstretched arm.

Our worries crowd our minds under the

of a tsunami recedes, our experiences, and those of our forebears, are never gone, even if they have been forgotten.”

For me, the phenomenon of intergenerational trauma is a reflection of the Hebrew phrase “mi dor l’dor,” which describes the Jewish tradition flowing “from generation to generation.” You may have heard these words sung in synagogue, or discussed in the context of Jewish tradition. Perhaps you’ve been to a bar or bat mitzvah at which a young Jewish person is celebrated as they are officially called to the Torah for the first time.

One of the most emotional moments of the way this ritual is observed in my congregation is when the Torah scroll is taken out of the ark and lovingly passed down from the most senior relative to the next generation (typically aunts and uncles) to the parents, and perhaps to the older siblings of the bar/bat mitzvah.

Finally, the Torah arrives into the arms of the young initiate, the newest link in an ancient chain of heritage. At that moment, the celebrant makes a silent commitment to uphold the ancestral values that have been passed down for thousands of years: uprightness and justice, lifelong learning, loyalty to family, and the fierce determination to protect and repair the world we have been given.

This ritual reenactment of mi dor l’dor is often the moment when tears are shed.

One can feel the power of ancient heritage in the room. One can sense those who have passed but are with us still in spirit. And

one can recognize that however connected or disconnected we are from the Jewish path, somehow we each play a part in this time-honored tradition that so many of our ancestors wrestled to preserve — and all too often, gave their lives for.

The legacies that come down to us are a rich and complex mixture of noble values and the painful trauma residues of our fraught history. All of these reverberate within our very cells. In our generation,

SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING JANUARY 19 - 5:28 P.M. JANUARY 26 - 5:35 P.M. SHABBAT ENDS JANUARY 20 - 6:27 P.M. JANUARY 27 - 6:33 P.M. Find area congregations at JewishAZ.com, where you can also find our 2024 Community Directory.

cover of night. Where is our magic harp?

Who lifts us from our narrow places? What form will God to bring us to a better time?

Our evening prayers remind us: Light rolls into darkness, and darkness rolls, always, into light.

We examine our worries by the light of day. And it is bright enough to see that we are not alone. There are others who share the weight of our worries, others who can help hold our fears.

We see those whose under-eye circles resemble our own, and tentatively ask … what keeps you up at night? We stretch out our hands to our neighbors and take this first step into our light, bright future.

Knowing we are not alone; we can leave our darkest worries on the shores of the sea. JN Rabbi Sara Mason-Barkin serves as rabbi and executive educator at Congregation Beth Israel in Scottsdale.

both science and the still-unfathomed events of these past months teach us once again just how deep our connection is to our ancestors, and how their lives continue to echo within us, from generation to generation, mi dor l’dor. JN This piece was originally published on My Jewish Learning. 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.

OPINION

Letter to the editor In Jewish News there is a long article about CAMERA (“Q&A: January community event offers help on how to talk about antisemitism,” Dec. 15, 2023), a media watchdog organization whose articles are so distorted that Jewish students like myself used to call it Orwellian back when it appeared in the 80s.

In the JN article Cohen repeatedly refers to “antisemitic and anti-Israel” people, organizations and rhetoric, as if they are one and the same. They are not.

Antisemitism is easy to slam because it is such a blatant and despicable form of prejudice.

We don’t need virtual or in-person talks to teach us to respond to such bigotry. If nothing else, walk away. People will respect you for your dignity.

Anti-Israel sentiment is different. Many Jews, myself included, have been alienated by Israel’s actions towards the Palestinians. There is nothing hateful about demanding equal rights and equal treatment for Palestinians. There is nothing inherently anti-Jewish about calling what Israel is doing to seven million Palestinians “apartheid” or in criticizing a state that has been systematically dehumanizing, dispossessing and dominating the Palestinians for seven-plus decades.

Most people calling out Israel’s discriminatory actions are not antisemitic — and they condemned Hamas’ actions as well. In fact, most of those criticizing Israel today should be lauded for opposing the indiscriminate killing of now more than 22,000 innocent civilians.

Those who are not condemning this slaughter are the ones who terrify me.

Jennifer L., Tucson

JEWISH NEWS

JEWISHAZ.COM

SPECIAL SECTION ESTATE & TAX PLANNING

Q&A: Taxes and estate planning DUANE ECKELBERG | SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH NEWS

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s a certified public accountant (CPA), I often receive questions this time of year regarding taxes and estate planning.

I’ve shared a few, along with my answers, below. Remember, good planning will involve your attorney, tax professional and investment advisor.

Duane Eckelberg It’s also important to COURTESY OF DUANE ECKELBERG include your spouse in the process as this may improve your longevity.

Q. Shouldn’t we get rid of this terrible “death tax?”

The death tax is the political name of the U.S. estate tax. Only 6,157 estate tax returns were filed in 2021. Do you have over $13,610,000 of assets at current values? If so, lunch is on you. If you are under that amount, your estate won’t pay estate taxes. The estate tax is the tax on the value of your assets at death. Almost no one pays. Married couples who plan can double the current $13 million exempt amount.

Q. If that’s true, why don’t we just kill the death tax? It can’t generate much tax revenue.

The estate tax rules reduce income tax for your beneficiaries. This means killing the estate tax will increase income taxes.

The reason: Estate tax requires that all asset values be adjusted to date of death value. (Retirement accounts excepted.)

The adjusted value of your mutual funds, for example, is used for income tax purposes. If the funds are sold soon after death there is typically no profit or income tax on the sale.

Q. Since my estate value is under $13 million, why would I need any estate planning?

An estate plan reflects your values and wishes. It provides a method of exerting control after you’re gone. You can be a mensch or a jerk. Choose mensch.

Q. Sounds like estate planning won’t reduce my taxes.

Estate planning is important for income tax, particularly if you are married. Arizona is a community property state. If your home

is not treated as community property, only 50% of its value is adjusted to market value on the death of the first spouse. Community property assets are 100% adjusted to market value. If your home is sold soon after death there is usually no income tax for community property. Titling of your assets should be reviewed. Your estate planning attorney is a good resource.

Q. Can I deduct my attorney’s fees for estate planning?

Probably not. It was disallowed with the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2018. However, many tax cut provisions will expire in 2025.

Q. Doesn’t the estate tax exemption go back to $5 million in 2025?

Congressional campaign contributors will never allow such a result. Estate attorneys, not trusting my prediction, will do smart contingency planning.

Q. Anything else I should know about reducing taxes?

If you have tax-deferred retirement accounts, you’ll want to consider the

income tax consequences after you’re gone. If you want to leave something to charity, an IRA is a good choice as the charity will not pay income tax on the bequest.

Q. Should I do something now?

You can star t by reviewing your life insurance and other beneficiar y designations. You probably don’t want to leave your life insurance to your former spouse. Other simple steps for everyone are listed in books such as “I’m Dead, Now What?” Similar organizational workbooks are widely available without catchy titles. Hint: If not now, when?

Begin today. JN Duane Eckelberg, is a CPA with Eckelberg & Wienshienk P.C. in Phoenix. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants and the Financial Planning Section of the Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants. For more information, visit ewcpa.com.

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15

SPECIAL SECTION ESTATE & TAX PLANNING

Set your New Year’s resolution to get your estate affairs in order MARK BREGMAN | SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH NEWS

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t is that time of year when we love making resolutions soon forgotten, but here is one for us all — let this be the year to get our estate affairs in order.

Estate plans are Mark Bregman not only for the COURTESY OF MARK BREGMAN wealthy and do not always include a will or trust. In fact, many estate plans may not use these documents at all. Here is a quick primer on the most important strategies everyone should know.

If you do not have a will or a trust that formally tells your successors who gets your property, default rules will apply. If you have no children outside your present marriage, everything will pass on to your spouse. If you have no

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spouse, everything will pass in shares of substantially equal value to your children.

If any of your children are deceased but have children of their own, those grandchildren will take their deceased parent’s share in equal shares. If any of your inheritors are incapacitated (under age 18 or diminished capacity), the court will appoint a conservator for their share.

The exception to the foregoing rules is accounts or property that have beneficiary designations, such as bank accounts with “pay on death” designations on file with the custodian, IRAs, insurance policies and annuity contracts. That property will pass outright without a probate proceeding to the named beneficiaries — a bad result if the beneficiary is a minor or incapacitated.

For your home and other real property, you can record a “beneficiary deed’ so that your real property passes to your intended beneficiaries without going to probate.

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SPECIAL SECTION ESTATE & TAX PLANNING However, if you want your property to be distributed to more than one beneficiary, you will be relying on all the named beneficiaries cooperating in the decision of how to take care of the property, occupy the property, or sell the property.

If that sounds easy, you may not need a will or a trust to direct your successors, but do not be afraid of “probate.” In Arizona, a probate proceeding can be relatively quick (about six months) and inexpensive (less than $10,000 in many cases) and is intended to resolve disputes between your loved ones and facilitate the collection and distribution of your property as directed by your will. Even if it is likely that your property will pass without the need of probate, we recommend everyone has a will, especially if you intend for someone other than your direct heirs to be included in your plan.

Just as important, or in many instances more important, are the related documents, such as the financial power of attorney or a health care power of attorney. Powers of attorney are intended to provide authority

to your chosen and trusted person(s) who will make decisions for you when you are unable to make them for yourself.

This could be the result of an illness, an injury, or diminished capacity due to age. Without these documents, it may be difficult to manage your affairs and your health care with the intervention of the judicial process — and that may not result in your intended caregiver being in charge unless approved by a judicial officer who does not know you and at great expense and controversy.

You may also want a living will, which is a declaration to your loved ones that you are content for them to let you go peacefully when there is no medical probability that you will survive with quality of life. Also, a HIPAA declaration lets you designate those persons close to you whom you want to access to your medical records if you are unable to speak for yourself.

Never ask a lawyer if you need a lawyer, the answer will always be “yes.” A private and confidential conversation with a lawyer about your property, your family and your

intentions may be the most important resolution you make for the new year.

A lawyer will listen to your concerns and suggest alternative courses of action from which to choose that will achieve your intentions concerning your family, your property, and your legacy, including referring you to other professionals such as tax experts, financial experts and others that are necessary to address all your needs and concerns.

Good luck and happy new year. JN Mark Bregman is a trust and estate lawyer at Dyer Bregman Ferris Wong & Carter, PLLC with more than 40 years of experience advising families.

For more information, visit dbfwclegal.com/ markbregman/.

ESTATE PLANS ARE NOT ONLY FOR THE WEALTHY AND DO NOT ALWAYS INCLUDE A WILL OR TRUST.

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SPECIAL SECTION HEALTH

Gilbert optician says he can ‘finally do something’ about dry eyes MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

P

erSpectacles Hearing & Eye Solutions in Gilbert is one of only two places in Greater Phoenix that treats chronic dry eye patients with IPL-RF (intense pulsed light and radiofrequency).

David Weinstein, the Jewish co-owner of PerSpectacles, initially offered the treatments in 2022 and then was introduced to a “newer machine that performed 10 times better” and switched to the InMode Envision Unit in 2023.

“It provides a non-evasive high-intensity light that pulses and targets various eye conditions,” said Weinstein. “Unlike other conventional treatments, this actually heals, repairs and takes away the problem that the patient has, (eliminating the need) for using drops and wipes and things like that.”

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, approximately 20 million people in the United States (344 million people worldwide) have dry eye disease, and that number is growing in

adults of all ages.

The IPL-RF treatment controls the inflammatory process with powerful bursts of light to gently heat the skin around the meibomian glands and melt any obstruction in the glands. Meibomian are tiny oil glands that line the margin of the eyelids, secrete the oil that coats the surface of the eyes and keep the water in tears from evaporating. The doctor determines the energy level needed based on the Fitzpatrick Skin Type I-VI of the patient — type I refers to skin that burns more quickly than it tans, while type VI refers to skin that never burns. The energy level of the light can be adjusted for every patient’s skin type and severity of dry eye symptoms.

The RF treatment follows gland expression by stimulating collagen formation, bringing white blood cells and stem cells to the skin around the eyes, reducing inflammation and improving tear production and secretion.

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The examination room where the InMode Envision Unit is used to treat dry eye.

COURTESY OF PERSPECTACLES HEARING & EYE SOLUTIONS

“We melt the debris that’s clogging the area that doesn’t have a healthy tear, the IPL pushes up the debris and then we express it with a special tool,” said Weinstein. “After three to four treatments, you no longer have clogged pores.

You now have proper oil and proper tear — it’s healed.”

Weinstein said they have also learned that rosacea and other skin conditions cause debris from the skin to flake, going into the eye and clogging the pores, thus causing the dry eye problem. So, the IPL-RF treats the dry eye and repairs the rosacea in the process.

After the first treatment, the patient is given instructions on follow-up care and makes the next appointment for a month out, the recommended time between initial treatments. Weinstein said he calls the patient the next day to check in and address any questions or concerns. The office also has a phone number manned 24/7.

Originally from New Jersey, Weinstein moved to Arizona in 1971 and joined Congregation Beth Israel, when it was located in Phoenix, where he is still a member. “I belonged to Beth Israel when Rabbi Plotkin and Rabbi Herring were with the congregation on the westside,” he said. “I became a bar mitzvah in ‘74 and then they relocated to Scottsdale.

Rabbi Plotkin remained my rabbi through my marriage, my children’s births and everything.”

Weinstein has been an Arizona statelicensed optician for over 37 years and is certified and trained in IPL-RF dry eye treatments. He started PerSpectacles with his wife, Linda, co-owner and front-office manager, in 1994. The company grew to three locations before the financial crisis hit in 2008 forcing them to condense, moving both the laboratory and office site to Gilbert. In 2008, they added the audiology component.

“Vision and hearing issues occur in the brain and the eyes and ears are just a pathway,” said Weinstein. “Hearing and vision are really connected and I had

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A patient receiving dry-eye treatment.

COURTESY OF PERSPECTACLES HEARING & EYE SOLUTIONS

so many customers whose hearing was affecting their examination process. So, we brought audiology aboard in ‘08 and expanded it further by adding over-thecounter hearing aids, which is very big right now.”

PerSpectacles offers a membership option where people can pay a certain amount to receive dry-eye treatments and vision and hearing exams, along with discounts on hearing aids and glasses. They also can add on other treatments provided by the on-staff medical aesthetician.

Both IPL and RF reverse the signs of aging by stimulating collagen production, smoothing wrinkles and eliminating dark spots, so the treatment can also be used for cosmetic purposes.

The dry-eye treatment is not covered by insurance and the cost is $1,700 for four treatments, the typical number for people to see results. Unfortunately, there is no way to determine how long the treatment effects will last because as your eyes age, the process will need to be redone.

“This treatment is going to help you, but in nine months to a year and a half, you’re going to need to come back in again; it’s just the way it is,” said Weinstein. “Your rosacea will be repaired; maybe that will stop the problem, but we just don’t know.”

Weinstein tells people to compare the cost of IPL-RF treatment with the cost of their doctor visits, prescription eye drops and wipes, in addition to the fact they’re not correcting the problem, just masking it.

“For the first time, we’re able to fix it, that’s the difference,” he said. “Before, we could try to give you something, and maybe help you and give you some relief, but you’re going to have the same problem again and there’s nothing we can do about it. But now, we finally have something we can do about it. That’s pretty exciting.” JN For more information, visit perspectacles.yolasite. com or thedryeyeteam.com.

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SPECIAL SECTION HEALTH

Local dermatologist warns about sun exposure danger, advises protection MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

W

hile most of the country is facing ice and snow, those spending winter in Greater Phoenix take advantage of typically warmer weather to spend more time outdoors. But extended time outside means more exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun — the leading cause of skin cancer.

Dr. Randi Rubenzik is a board-certified dermatologist at Southwest Skin Specialists Phoenix Biltmore, practicing in Greater Phoenix for more than 20 years. She earned her medical degree at the University of Arizona, where she also completed her dermatology residency. She and her family are members of The New Shul in Scottsdale.

“One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in his or her lifetime,” said Rubenzik.

“The most common examples of these conditions include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

Chronic damage often takes place over years of exposure. Even a tan is a sign of skin injury.”

Skin cancer is also the most common form of cancer in the United States today and according to the American Cancer

Society, Arizona’s estimated rate of annual melanoma cases per 100,000 residents was 42.3 in 2022, compared with the national rate of 29.9. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and cases left untreated can be fatal.

The three primary forms of skin cancer are defined as follows: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common type of skin cancer and is often linked to chronic sun exposure. BCC usually appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and hands. While it tends to grow slowly and rarely metastasizes, it should still be treated promptly.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is another common type of skin cancer and is also associated with sun exposure. It can appear on the face, ears, neck, and other sun-exposed areas. SCC has a higher risk of spreading compared to BCC, so early detection and treatment are crucial.

Melanoma: Melanoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. It often develops in moles but

can also occur in normal-appearing skin. UV exposure, especially intense sun exposure, increases the risk of melanoma.

Rubenzik said it is important to protect your skin from the sun’s rays and shared the following suggestions: seek shade; wear sun-protective clothing, sunglasses and hats; and apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, reapplying every one to two hours when outdoors. One ounce of sunscreen is the amount recommended to cover exposed areas of skin.

“Remember that indoor tanning emits harmful ultraviolet radiation and can cause skin cancers and eye damage, as well as skin aging, wrinkles and discoloration,” said Rubenzik. “It is not a safe source of vitamin D.” Vitamin D is essential for bone health, calcium absorption, inflammation reduction, cell growth, heart health and immune support. A person gets vitamin D when ultraviolet rays hit exposed skin, prompting the body to create vitamin D3, which the liver and kidneys convert into usable vitamin D.

Based on the United States Dietary Association (USDA) and National Health and Nutrition Surveys, most of the population is not vitamin D-deficient. There are claims that one needs to get a certain amount of sun exposure daily to produce enough vitamin D to be healthy. The majority of people can get their vitamin D from nutritional supplements and from vitamin D-fortified foods such as fatty fish, lean proteins and eggs.

Rubenzik said sun protection will help reduce the development of many unwanted spots and discoloration and there are procedures available that can play a role in removing age spots and sun damage in conjunction with a careful sun-protective routine.

One also needs to regularly examine their own skin to find changing, growing or nonhealing spots early. “If you notice anything new or concerning, see your board-certified dermatologist for an evaluation,” said Rubenzik. JN For more information, visit swskin.net/doctors/ randi-rubenzik-md/.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Preconception Counseling And Testing • Hereditary Cancer Referrals And Support

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SPECIAL SECTION HEALTH

Knowledge is power: What you need to know about genetic screening KATHERINE HUNT BRENDISH, PHD, MS, CGC | SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH NEWS

J

ewish Genetic Screening Awareness Week in February is a great time to better understand risk factors for some hereditary conditions.

The most common type of genetic screening is carrier screening. Carrier screening is designed to identify individuals who carry a genetic change (variant) in their DNA, which could increase their risk to have a child affected with a genetic condition.

The goal of carrier screening, as described by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist, is to provide individuals with meaningful information that they can use to guide pregnancy planning based on their personal values.

Why do individuals with Ashkenazi Jewish background need to consider carrier screening?

Individuals who are of Ashkenazi Jewish background are at a higher risk to carry variants for a handful of genetic conditions including, Tay-Sachs, Gaucher

and Canavan’s disease. In addition to screening for the conditions that occur more often in individuals who are from Ashkenazi Jewish background, most carrier screening tests offered today, will screen for common variants for over 200 diseases.

When someone is found to carry a variant for one of these genetic diseases, they typically will have no symptoms of the condition (there are some exceptions).

It is when their partner also tests positive for a variant for the same condition, that the couple will be at risk to have a child who is affected with a genetic disease.

When is the best time to consider carrier screening?

The best time to consider carrier screening is before deciding to have children. Regardless of an individual’s background, both partners should be screened in order to most accurately understand the risks for future offspring.

It is recommended that individuals over the age of 18 undergo carrier screening.

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What are the advantages of undergoing carrier screening?

Each person can decide for themselves whether or not they wish to undergo carrier screening. For some individuals, the benefit of undergoing this type of screening is to be fully informed of their risk factors before starting their family.

And for others, the benefit of undergoing the screening is to prepare themselves for having a child with a genetic condition or to be able to make decisions that would prevent them from having a child with a genetic condition, such as adoption.

What other types of genetic screening is available?

The second type of genetic screening available is to meet with a genetic counselor for a review of your medical family history to identify a possible hereditary component to a condition, such as cancer.

A genetic counselor is an individual with training in medical genetics and the implications of genetic disease. Genetic counselors are trained to: provide a risk assessment for someone to have a hereditary condition; review the options and implications for undergoing genetic testing and; provide resources and support when someone tests positive for a hereditary condition.

Individuals who have multiple generations of relatives diagnosed with the same type of cancer, relatives diagnosed with cancer under age 50, and/ or have multiple relatives diagnosed with cancers that are commonly seen together (ovarian/breast/colon/uterine), are good candidates for genetic counseling.

Questions to consider prior to undergoing genetic screening Prior to undergoing genetic screening, be sure you understand the implications

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of your results on your ability to obtain and keep your health insurance. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) (available at genome. gov), provides protection against health insurance discrimination but does not cover life insurance, long-term care insurance or disability insurance.

It is also important to understand the implications your test results will have for your relatives, prior to undergoing genetic screening, and have a plan for how you will communicate your results with your relatives.

Resources for individuals interested in undergoing carrier screening Whether you are interested in carrier screening or, screening for a disease that may be common in your family, it is beneficial to discuss your questions and the pros and cons of undergoing testing, with a genetic counselor before deciding. JN The Minkoff Center for Jewish Genetics, offers carrier screening (with pre- and post-test genetic counseling) as well as referrals to local genetic counselors. For more information, visit jewishgenetics.org.

Katherine Hunt Brendish, PhD, MS, CGC is director of the ASU Genetic Counseling Program and a clinical professor at the College of Health Solutions, assistant professor in Medicine at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine and assistant clinical professor with Creighton University School of Medicine and teaches genetics to the first-year medical students. She is currently serving on the board for the Minkoff Center for Jewish Genetics as well as the program director for the BRCA Screening Program. genetic counseling) as well as referrals to local genetic counselors.

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COMMUNITY

Where is your Jewish News?

Portugal edition

Care kits for Israel Arizona Jews for Justice (AJJ) volunteers made over 50 care kits for Israeli families in an attempt to elevate their spirits after they were traumatized by Hamas’ invasion on Oct. 7.

COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE

Barbara Lewkowitz took her copy of Jewish News on her journey to Portugal and Spain last fall. She brought the newspaper along on a visit to a 16th-century synagogue in the city of Porto, built when Portugal’s Jews had been forced to convert to Catholicism or risk being burned at the stake. Lewkowitz is pictured with the newspaper in front of the “hidden ark.”

COURTESY OF BARBARA LEWKOWITZ

The people behind the party The Smile on Seniors Chanukah party was made possible with the help of volunteers, from left to right, Mushka Levertov, Reese Schibel and Isaac Schibel.

COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS

A mitzvah-filled day More than 100 Beth El Congregation members and friends packed 1,000 hygiene kits for One Hundred Angels and nearly 500 sack lunches for Arizona Friends of the Homeless at its annual Mitzvah Day on Dec. 25. Gourmet Touch Catering provided a pancake breakfast for the volunteers and the Cafe Por Favor coffee truck provided beverages.

COURTESY OF BETH EL PHOENIX SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE

Adopting a classroom for the holidays Temple Solel Preschool and PJ Library adopted a low-income elementary school classroom, brought presents for the children and celebrated with food and fun.

COURTESY OF MARCY LEWIS

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This COMMUNITY page features photos of community members around the Valley and the world. Submit photos and details each week to editor@jewishaz.com by 10 a.m. Monday.

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CALENDAR

Featured Event SUNDAY, JAN. 21

Rick Recht in Concert: 3 p.m. activities and crafts; 4 p.m. concert. Pardes Jewish Day School, 12753 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join PJ Library, Pardes Jewish Day School and the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center for an afternoon of song with musician Rick Recht. Community organizations will have activities and craft tables set up before the concert. Cost: Free. For more information, visit phoenixcjp.regfox.com/pj-library-rick-recht-concert.

COURTESY OF RICK RECHT

For an updated listing of events and resources for supporting Israel, visit JewishPhoenix.com Events FRIDAY JAN. 19 “Farewell, Mr. Haffmann:” 7-9 p.m. Harkins Theatres Shea 14, 7354 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale. Join the Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival for a limited-seating screening of this new drama set in 1942 Nazi-occupied Paris, Cost: $15 per person. For more information, visit gpjff.org.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, JAN. 19-21 Documentary Film Series: Online. Join the Arizona Jewish Historical Society for a screening of “First to Stand,” which follows Irwin Cotler and his team of young activists at the Raoul Wallenberg Centre as they take on the cases of political prisoners and human rights activists battling against the world’s most repressive regimes. Cost: Free. For more information, visit azjhs.org/first-to-stand.

SATURDAY, JAN. 20 Spiritual Music Gathering: 5:30-10 p.m. Temple Kol Ami, 15030 N. 64th St., Scottsdale. Join Temple Kol Ami for an evening of spiritual music, a fusion of ancient melodies and contemporary hymns. Adults only. Registration closes on Jan. 20 at 12 p.m. Cost: $18-$30. For more information, visit jewishphoenix.com/ events/spiritual-music-gathering.

SUNDAY, JAN. 21 Tu B’Shevat Celebration: 10-11:30 a.m. East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Join the Early Learning Center at the EVJCC for a morning of crafts, stories, songs and food in celebration of the birthday of the trees. Cost: Free; reservations required. For more information, visit evjcc.org/jcommunity.

TUESDAY, JAN. 23 Prospects for Peace in the Middle East: Towards a Sustainable Solution: 12-2 p.m.

Location TBA. Join ASU Jewish Studies for a presentation by Professor Alon Tal, a leading Israeli environmentalist and former member of the Knesset. Cost: Free. For more information, visit jewishstudies.asu.edu/currentPrograms.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 24 Tu B’Shevat Paint and Sip: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center and NowGen for a night of creativity with fellow younger adults (ages 21-45), led by a local artist. Cost: $18. For more information, visit vosjcc.org/program/ tu-bshvat-paint-and-sip-with-nowgen.

FRIDAY, JAN. 26 Israeli Paramedic Speaks: 7 p.m. Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Join TBS-WV for a presentation by Shafir Botner, an Israeli paramedic and director of the paramedic school at Magen David Adom, Israel’s Red Cross. He will describe the moment shrapnel hit their helicopter while 22

JANUARY 19, 2024

flying critically wounded patients to the hospital on Oct. 7. Cost: Free. For more information, visit tbsaz.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 27 Scottsdale Mahjong Party: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Via Linda Senior Center, 10440 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale. Join other seniors to play in a friendly tournament. For more information, contact Susan Weiner at 623-521-5702 or susanweiner. travel@gmail.com.

SUNDAY, JAN. 28 Limmud AZ: A Community Conversation: 1-5 p.m. Pardes Jewish Day School, 12753 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join Limmud AZ for an in-person afternoon of Jewish learning, discovery and connection. Cost: $18 through Jan. 27; $36 on Jan. 28. For more information, visit phoenixcjp.regfox.com/2024-limmud-az.

ADL: An Evening with Jonathan Greenblatt: 6-9 p.m. Congregation Beth Israel, 10460 N. 56th St., Scottsdale. Join Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Desert States and Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and national director, for a community conversation with Mi-Ai Parrish, Cost: $18. For more information, visit support.adl.org/event/a-community-conversation-with-jonathan-greenblatt.

Economic & Human Devastation of the Arizona Border Crisis: Time TBA. Congregation Beth Israel, 10460 N. 56th St., Scottsdale. Join The Jewish Women’s Conservative Forum as they host Congressman David Schweiker to discuss the border crisis. For more information, contact Laurie Schwartz at lks19@cox.net.

TUESDAY, FEB. 6 2024 Market and Philanthropic Outlook: 4:306:30 p.m. U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, 16220 N. Scottsdale Road #200, Scottsdale. Join the Professional Advisory Network, a program of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix, for a presentation, appetizers, drinks and networking. Cost: $18. For more information, visit phoenixcjp.org/panoutlook.

THURSDAY, FEB. 1 Schindler’s List, Apartheid’s Legacy: From Poland to South Africa: 7 p.m.. Temple Solel, 6805 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley. Join Temple Solel for a presentation by Tali Nates, founder and director of the Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Center. Cost: Free. For more information, visit templesolel.org.

SUNDAY, FEB. 4 Upstander Training — Stand Up to Hate: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join Hebrew High of Greater Phoenix for a program with the Anti-Defamation League for teen in grades 9-12 to learn effective ways to respond to hate, discrimination and biases.

Cost: Free. For more information, visit bjephoenix.org/hh-overview.

THURSDAYS Storytime at Modern Milk: 9:30 a.m. Modern Milk, 13802 N. Scottsdale Road, #163, Scottsdale. Storytime for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Integrates children’s books and songs while giving parents new ideas for play.

Cost: $5. For more information and to register, visit modernmilk.com/after-baby.

MILESTONES OBITUARIES

Robert Silverberg Robert Irwin Silverberg, aged 90, of Paradise Valley, passed away peacefully on Dec. 1, 2023, after a short illness.

Jewish Life Through Music: 6:30 p.m. Temple Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. Join Allan Naplan, executive and producing director of Arizona Musicfest, for a presentation about Jewish music. Part of the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix’s Passages Series. Cost: $20. For more information, visit bjephoenix.org/programs/passages.

MONDAY, JAN. 29 The Ethics of Rescue: True Stories Behind Bergen-Belsen's Liberation: 7-8:30 p.m. in person and online. Valley Beit Midrash, 7580 E. Gray Road #102, Scottsdale. Join Valley Beit Midrash for a presentation by Bernice Lerner, Ed.D., author of "All the Horrors of war: A Jewish Girl, a British Doctor and the Liberation of Bergen-Belsen." Cost: $18. For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org.

SUNDAYS B.A.G.E.L.S: 9-11 a.m.; last Sunday of the month. Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale.

Grab a bagel and a cup of coffee at Bagels And Gabbing Every Last Sunday and enjoy some time with your friends and make new ones. You must register to attend. Bagels and coffee will be provided. Cost: Free for members, $5 for guests. For more information and to register, visit vosjcc.org.

Robert was born in 1933 to Harry and Lillian Silverberg in Brooklyn, New York. After graduating from Columbia Grammar and Prep School in 1950, Robert received his degree from Dartmouth in 1954 before joining the United States Navy. He met Robyn Horne Silverberg through her brother Elliot, and they wed Dec. 18, 1955, while he was serving as a communications officer aboard the USS Hyman and USS Leyte. He went on to receive his law degree at New York University. The family welcomed son, Kenneth, and daughter, Jane, to the family.

Robert practiced law in Astoria with his father until the family relocated from King’s Point, New York to Paradise Valley in 1975. Robert participated in family business endeavors in the Scottsdale area and did legal work for the family’s business concerns in New York. His passions were family, pets and organizing family boating and motor home excursions. He could often be found tinkering on vintage Porsches in the garage and was an avid audiophile.

Robert loved collecting Native American art and jewelry with his wife Robyn. The research and stories behind each piece were as important as the collection itself. All who encountered Robert were touched by his negotiation skills and generosity.

Robert was predeceased by Robyn Horne Silverberg (his wife of 67 years) in 2023, Rita Zeichner (his sister) in 2004. He is survived by son, Kenneth, and daughter, Jane, and her husband, David.

A graveside service was held on Dec. 5, 2023, at Green Acres Cemetery. In accordance with the way he lived his life, the family requests in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association.

Another LIFE WELL LIVED!

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MILESTONES

Shirley Mae (Ellis) Shulman,

Lawrence (Larry) M. Fogel

93, died Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023 in Scottsdale. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Arthur and Ida Ellis, she and her sister Ruth (Ellis) Green, grew up in East Cleveland, where Shirley graduated from Glenville High School in 1948.

Lawrence (Larry) M. Fogel, a man who traded ice storms for sunshine and never looked back, passed away on Jan. 1, 2024, at 92. Born Aug. 11, 1931, in Omaha, Nebraska to David C. and Mollie Fogel (nee’ Swartz), he was sent to Phoenix in December 1962 and upon seeing the blue sky and feeling the sun’s warmth, declared, “I’m ditching the snow shovel for spurs!” He promptly invested in his first pair of boots and traded his mittens for Stetsons; he lived in the Valley for the remainder of his 61 years.

Shirley married Jim Shulman in 1958, settling in Shaker Heights, Ohio, where they raised their three children Andrew, Jon and Ruth.

In her 40’s Shirley enrolled in Cleveland State University and graduated Cum Laude in 1978 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

In 1982, Shirley moved to Scottsdale with her daughter, Ruth, and lived in Scottsdale for the next 41 years. After retirement, that life included community service as an Old Town Scottsdale Ambassador, a Sky Harbor Airport Navigator and in the shop at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library.

Shirley is survived by her children Andrew Shulman (Malissa Zimmerman) of Washington, D.C.; Jon Shulman (Amber) of Solon, Ohio; and Ruth Shulman Oliver of Scottsdale. She is also survived by her grandchildren Nicole, Jacob and Anna Oliver; and by nieces and nephews, Amy (Green) Seropian (Rich), Judy (Green) Crippen (Ted), Lisa (Shulman) Piel (Geoffrey), Seth Shulman (Dorothy) and Tony Shulman (Elena).

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org) or to the Desert Botanical Garden (dbg.org)

Rudy Fraenkel Rudy Fraenkel, 92, of Scottsdale, died in the early morning on Dec. 24, 2023. Rudy never shied away from a challenge and made the most of his opportunities. His heart and determination, despite early circumstances, is what allowed him to live such a long and loving life.

Rudy was born in Mainz, Germany on January 13, 1931, to Else and Solomon Fraenkel. He had two siblings, Mark and Albert. Those who knew Rudy knew that his childhood was far from traditional. Rudy and his brothers were sent away from home following Kristallnacht or “Night of Broken Glass,” where Nazi policy and behavior toward German Jews turned violent and increasingly worse. Rudy and his brothers eventually left Europe through Lisbon, Portugal on June 10, 1941, onboard the SS Mouzinho. They arrived in America on June 22, 1941, in hopes of a more promising life.

Rudy spent time on the East Coast and in the Midwest before settling in Arizona. He earned his way into the United States Army where he proudly served. He made a living as a stockbroker and even had a seat on the Chicago Board of Trade. Eventually, Rudy traveled to Phoenix, where he bought First Cabin Pool Supply and ventured into entrepreneurship. Aside from work, Rudy was best known for his Einstein-esque appearance and enjoying time on his motorcycle. He was a proud member of the High Riders motorcycle club until the age of 85.

In 1985, Rudy married the love of his life, Paulette, who loved how smart, humble and caring he was. Rudy regularly gave to charities and causes to better his community. Prior to their marriage, Rudy fathered two children, Erica and Sherri. He then became a stepfather to Arlyn, Shayna, Samuel and Michelle – all of whom he loved as his own.

Rudy is preceded in death by his parents Else and Solomon, and his brothers Mark and Albert. He is survived by Paulette, Arlyn, Shayna, Samuel, Michelle, Erica and Sherri; his nephews Ernest and William; 12 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

His funeral service was held on Dec. 26, 2023, at the Beth El Cemetery in Phoenix.

Donations on his behalf can be made to the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center (azjhs.org/donate; in the memo section put the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center in honor of Rudy Fraenkel), The Gesher Foundation (gesherusa.org/ways-togive), or any charity of choice.

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A business associate set him up on a blind date in 1963 with Joan Friedlander (Reichard), whom he would propose to 11 days later. They were married for 12 years and had two children, both of whom survive him: Tony Fogel (Lisa) and Debbie Fogel-Monnissen. Larry was blessed with four grandchildren whom he adored: Sarah (Giles) Grindlay, Samuel, and Yaakov Fogel, and Zoey Monnissen. He never forgot a birthday. His dearest little sister, Diane (DeDe) Minowitz, predeceased him in 2009. His grief was profound, and he cherished her children.

He and his beloved girlfriend Joanne Rawson were inseparable for a 16year odyssey preceding her death when Larry was 90. Larry and Joanne enjoyed a vibrant life together, with movies they each critiqued, dining out, traveling and playing Connect 4, a game Larry seldom lost.

Larry was dispatched to Phoenix by Walston & Company to spearhead a stockbroking office. He established his own firm, which evolved into Fogel International, in 1969. Larry loved the deal and worked tirelessly on mid-market mergers and acquisitions well into his 90’s, closing his last deal at 88. Always an optimist with tremendous self-belief, he navigated many financial and personal storms with remarkable stoicism.

Fogel served as a director on the boards and advisory committees of various national corporations, including Chairman of the Board of AFS Technologies, Inc., GEM Distribution Inc., Karbach Building Company, Arizona Valley Development and ANENT Systems Corporation.

Larry obsessed over golf and loved to announce when he “had a new swing.” In his 20’s, he spent a year in Santa Barbara, California, playing and studying golf. His goal was to make it to the pro tour, but he embraced a self-imposed 12-month limit and returned to Omaha to get a job.

He was enthusiastic about jazz, “especially when it swings” and often played his favorite artists like Count Basie, Frank Sinatra and Oscar Peterson for his kids, who did not initially appreciate it. He delighted in time with family, especially over a delicious meal and a glass of wine; his children’s friends were always invited to dinners out and still enjoy reminiscing over convivial nights at Durant’s, and other Arizona classics.

Larry had many adventures, especially while he was supposed to be attending classes at the University of Miami, including some harrowing events like getting beat up in a Miami bar by Jake LaMotta (he apparently flirted with a woman who turned out to be LaMotta’s wife).

He never let that incident dampen his adventurous spirit; however, he did purchase a handgun. He obtained his pilot’s license only to have it suspended for flying over Miami International airspace at night without instruments (he always maintained he made it back in time for his hot date). He later recovered it and obtained his commercial rating.

Larry was invariably fapitzed (Yiddish for dressed to kill), proudly donning his LF monogramed button-down, meticulous and articulate with a clever turn of phrase or Yiddish witticism. Whenever he was told things like have a nice day or safe travels, he always had a riposte like, “I’ll do my part.”

A proud Navy veteran, having served in Naval Intelligence during the Korean War, Larry will be buried at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. He will take what he did in the Navy to his grave, but the rumor is that he caddied for the Admiral.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Chabad of the East Valley (chabadcenter.com/). Arrangements made by Sinai Mortuary.

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