Jewish News, Jan. 22, 2021

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Experts talk about implications of social media crackdown

TOBY TABACHNICK | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The man who stormed the Tree of Life synagogue building on Oct. 27, 2018, murdering 11 congregants in the midst of Shabbat prayer, was an active user of the social media site Gab. His Gab bio said, “jews are the children of satan,” and his banner image was an unambiguous reference to a white supremacist meme. His final post, just prior to the massacre, read: “Screw your optics, I’m going in.”

In the months following the Pittsburgh shooting, many pundits and the ADL urged social media companies to better police racist, violent and anti-Semitic accounts and clarify terms of service to make hateful content harder to find online — and to prevent such content from being monetized. The profligation of extremist activism online worried experts about radicalization, as researchers made connections between violent words and violent actions.

“There are 24/7 rallies online,” Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and national director of the ADL said one year after the Pittsburgh shooting. “With just a few clicks, you can literally find what was previously unspeakable. Social media has become a breeding ground for bigotry.”

Following the Jan. 6 Capitol riots, which left five people dead, the social media giants took serious steps against accounts they deemed potentially dangerous. Twitter suspended more than 70,000 accounts linked to the QAnon conspiracy theory, whose followers believe Donald Trump is secretly saving the world from a cabal of Satanic pedophiles and cannibals, and who traffic in anti-Semitic tropes. Adherents of QAnon were numerous among the mob that stormed the Capitol.

Trump was permanently suspended from Twitter “due to the risk of further incitement of violence,” Twitter announced.

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Rabbis hail vaccine for COVID-19, encourage its use

For Rabbi Reuven Mann, the question of whether to get vaccinated against COVID-19 has a simple answer: “Everyone must get the vaccine as this will protect him and the people he comes in contact with.”

Mann, the founder of Congregation Torat Emet in Phoenix, has been in Israel since the COVID-19 pandemic began. He and his wife received the first injection of the Pfizer vaccine at the end of December.

“According to Judaism one must do everything possible to protect one’s life and insure one’s health,” he said, via email. “We must be grateful to G-d for enabling us to obtain this life-saving treatment as well as to the scientific community that was involved in producing this remedy.”

As the U.S. government launched the largest vaccine distribution program in the country’s history, most rabbis seem united in support of the rollout to battle the coronavirus pandemic, and stress that vaccination is consistent with Judaism’s highest value: preserving life.

Two Orthodox rabbinical bodies, the Orthodox Union and the Rabbinical Council of America, issued a joint statement that there’s a Torah obligation to receive the vaccine as soon as it’s available.

The vaccines can even be viewed in light of the recent Torah portion about Joseph and his brothers and “the paradox of God’s omnipotent involvement in human affairs versus the necessity and reality of human effort, action and

Challenge Island gives kids chance to prove their mettle

On a recent field trip, Jessica Nathan set up a series of STEAM-based challenges for students of Freedom Academy in Scottsdale. To read more, go to p. 15.

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Sami Wilder, a third-year medical student at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, receives the COVID-19 vaccine. PHOTO COURTESY OF SAMI WILDER

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Other platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, also suspended Trump’s accounts, as well as the accounts of some of his associates.

In the wake of the suspensions, many farright voices moved to the platform Parler until Apple, Google and Amazon removed Parler from their platforms too.

Shutting down social media accounts and sites, though, does not necessarily halt the spread of violent rhetoric, anti-Semitism or other hateful ideologies, according to some law enforcement experts.

“When you limit these types of accounts, what happens is the folks who are using these various platforms to communicate will simply jump to another platform,” said Shawn Brokos, director of community security for the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. “We see that all the time in law enforcement.” She analogized tracking extremists to a game of “whack-a-mole.”

Kathleen Blee, a professor of sociology at the University of Pittsburgh who has researched white supremacy and is a member of one of the three congregations attacked during the shooting at the Tree of Life building, agreed there are “downsides” to moving people off of sites where people understand that they are being monitored, which can have some moderating effect.

“It’s moving people into these end-toend encrypted — and really the cesspool of the internet — sites that are just vehicles for the most horrific white supremacist, violent, anti-Semitic, anti-immigrant views,” Blee said. “So, that’s a problem, obviously. And it’s hard to monitor what individuals are doing on them — it’s not hard to monitor them in the aggregate, but it is hard to pin anything to an individual user.”

As of last week, use of apps favored by extremists had skyrocketed, Blee said. Users on Signal had increased 677% and

Telegram was up 146%.

“That’s a problem,” Blee said. “These places are slippery. And Telegram and Signal are very much open to hosting these kinds of very violent white supremacist conversations.”

On the other hand, Blee said, when more open sites close down, there is usually some attrition.

“For one thing, some people will not want to gravitate from the level of what was being expressed on Facebook or even Parler, to the next step toward violence,” she said. “And you are also going to lose some people because, as you get into some of these, they become more and more difficult to access and require more technological knowledge.”

Another downside to moving users off mainstream platforms is that it reifies some of their false beliefs. “For these racially motivated violent extremists, there is this inherent belief that there is a Zionist government that is trying to control everybody and that the Jews are behind a lot of that,” Brokos said.

In fact, that ideology may have motivated the Pittsburgh synagogue shooter.

“What seems to have happened with him very much fits the pattern we see in other kinds of racially motivated violence,” said Blee. “First, there’s a sense of some enormous existential threat out there. If you think of the 1980s and ’90s, when the white supremacists became significant in this country, the existential threat was banking and farm foreclosures — it was the beginning of the militia movement and really the resurgence of anti-Semitism in a very public way. That was the existential

threat: Jews held a stranglehold over the economy and were ruining the lives of white farmers, was kind of the message there.”

These days, the existential threat is more commonly framed as white genocide or “the Great Replacement Theory — that whites will become the minority and lose power,” Blee said.

The next precursor to racially motivated violence is identifying a person or group responsible, she continued.

“In the Pittsburgh shooting, the threat was white genocide and the target was George Soros — so there you have an amplification by politicians of the same message that’s being spread on Gab and by other white supremacists online.”

To white supremacists, “George Soros” signifies “Jews,” Blee said, “and they all understand that. George Soros is to white supremacists what Rothschild was a couple decades ago. Probably most of these people couldn’t tell you who George Soros is — just an image that stands in for Jews writ large, Jewish control.”

After identifying the threat and the target, the third stage is a “sense of urgency,” Blee said.

“That’s the final trigger. ‘You can’t just wait around and mobilize yourself for the threat, you have to act now’ -- that’s the message …. It’s pernicious in any form. When it’s happening on the internet

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all over the place, when it’s amplified in public, when there is an echoing of what’s happening on places like Gab and what’s showing on TV, that’s particularly dangerous.”

Shutting down Trump’s use of social media “as a megaphone” in the days after the Jan. 6 riots and before the inauguration was particularly important, Blee said.

“I think in the short run, that outweighs everything,” she said. “He was clearly providing an accelerant to these conversations and actions.”

VACCINE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Rabbi Yisroel Isaacs, leader of Beth Joseph Congregation and member of the Orthodox Rabbinical Council of Greater Phoenix, via email.

The vaccine is a combination of human skill and talent and God’s blessing, he said.

“Protecting oneself is a mitzvah; protecting one’s community is a mitzvah. Vaccines allow us to do both,” agreed Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, the president and dean of Valley Beit Midrash, via email. “One should recite two blessings of gratitude at the first vaccination shot — shehechiyanu and ha’tov v’ha’meitiv; and one at the second vaccination shot — gomel.”

Other rabbis echoed Yanklowitz’s point about preserving and protecting life — both that of the individual and of others.

“You can overturn virtually every law in the Torah to save life, and there’s no question that vaccination is overwhelmingly life-saving,” said Danny Schiff, a Reform rabbi and foundation scholar at the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. “Vaccination does two things — it preserves your life and others. Judaism wants to preserve the well-being of the individual, and the idea is we also have a responsibility to each other.”

Rabbi Mindie Snyder, rabbi and chaplain for Sun Health Communities, emphasized the point as well. Rabbinically, she said, vaccinations are important in that they protect life.

“This is a very big deal,” she said. “We understand whoever saves one life is considered as if they saved an entire world.”

There is less agreement on prioritization and making the vaccine mandatory.

Rabbi Jeremy Schneider believes it should be mandatory. Schneider, spiritual leader of Temple Kol Ami and past president of the Greater Phoenix Board of Rabbis, pointed out that despite his personal belief, individuals have the power to decide whether they will take the vaccine.

“My job is to teach the moral and Jewish position on the science,” Schneider said, via email. The government and other institutions have the power of enforcement, and he leaves the ultimate responsibility to them. However, he plans to set a personal example for his congregants by taking the vaccine when he is able.

The ADL also condoned Trump’s ban from social media, calling it an “excellent step.”

“Social media platforms must choose which side of history they want to be on — are they with the domestic terrorists that we saw at the Capitol on January 6th, or with America’s families, leaders and advocates who want to safeguard our democracy and protect its children. It is a simple choice,” said Tammy Gillies, regional director for ADL of Arizona.

“Many of these social media platforms

have inflicted harm on our society by permitting content that spreads racism, hate and violence,” she continued.

“Whether you consider it the catalyst or just a conduit, the fact is that social media drives radicalization. It’s a font of conspiracy theories, a slow-burning acid weakening our foundations post after post, tweet after tweet, like after like.” JN

“But I must also take the time to listen, with empathy and real concern, to those who resist that obligation.”

Several praised the decision to prioritize the vaccination of essential workers in health care, agriculture, education, law enforcement, transportation, firefighting, food distribution and sanitation.

“Both the government’s guidelines and Jewish law as I interpret it would have us save as many lives as possible,” said Rabbi Elliot Dorff, professor of philosophy at American Jewish University in Los Angeles. “I presume … nonhealth-care essential workers will get the vaccine before the elderly and those with medical conditions because people who stock grocery shelves and do other essential things to enable us to live need to be protected to do their jobs in the name of the communal good. … People can die of starvation as much as from COVID-19.”

From both a “purely ethical” and utilitarian perspective, “you vaccinate most the vulnerable first — the elderly in nursing homes,” said Rabbi David Wolpe, the religious leader of Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, a Conservative synagogue. Wolpe can see the argument, too, for prioritizing “front-line workers who are forced out of their homes day after day.”

In Isaacs’ view, because the vaccine belongs to the federal government, they are the correct arbiter of how it should be distributed as long as “the criteria are fair and not discriminatory.”

He shied away, however, from a personal recommendation. “Rabbis taking positions on medical issues — or physicians taking positions on rabbinic issues — is like mixing milchigs with fleishigs — dairy with meat,” he said.

Rabbi Mark Wildes, the founder of Manhattan Jewish Experience who works with Jewish singles in their 20s and 30s in New York, thinks that younger Americans will respond positively to opportunities to get the vaccine.

Rabbi Jordan Brumer agreed. Brumer, the director of Jewish Arizonans on Campus, is excited about the possibility of the vaccine bringing an end to the pandemic as well as the hope it brings to the college students he works with. “We are encouraging all of our students to receive the vaccine at the first

possible opportunity,” he said, via email.

In addition to caring about older people and wanting “to do the right thing,” said Wildes, the young people with whom he works “want to go to work, to play sports, to date, to socialize, and if the vaccine is going to allow that, they are going to be flocking to it.”

As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout begins, authorities hope that enough Americans will take the vaccines to achieve herd immunity. While the exact threshold is unknown, experts estimate that between 75% and 85% of Americans will need to be vaccinated for that to be achieved.

By some recent polls, as high a proportion as half of all Americans said they have reservations about taking the vaccine, and more than one poll reported conflicted views about sectors of the Jewish public agreeing to get the vaccine, both in America and Israel.

Some Orthodox health professionals and communal leaders worry that a vocal minority of their community won’t heed their guidance. They point to skepticism regarding the vaccine in the overall population because of anti-vaccine sentiments, as well as nervousness with the speed at which the vaccines were developed and the politicization of the virus.

Isaacs agreed, saying he has very little direct contact with what he terms “a small but highly vocal group or fringe group in the Orthodox community that is opposed to vaccines in general and this vaccine in particular.” He noted, however, that its views on the vaccine are from an adoption of a general anti-vaxxer platform “rather than one based on Jewish tradition.”

Mann is more concerned that people may let their guard down and stop wearing masks because the vaccine makes them feel the danger is past. But although “this has been a long season of suffering for many people due to the devastation wrought by this pandemic,” he hopes people will stay vigilent.

Still, he’s focused on the “light at the end of the tunnel” the vaccines bring after nearly a year of darkness and disease.

“Let us hope that with mass immunizations the dark clouds which hover above us will soon dissipate and we will emerge as a more wise and compassionate society.” JN

Toby Tabachnick is editor of the Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle, a Jewish News-affiliated publication.

Temple Chai joins Synagogue Vegan Challenge

Traditional Jewish cuisine often conjures up images of brisket, pastrami on rye, lox and bagels, kreplach and chopped liver. It is not often that tofu, eggless challah, smoked seitan or gefilte “fish” made with chickpeas and vegetables find their way onto the Shabbat table. But Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, president and dean of Valley Beit Midrash, hopes to change that meaty menu — at least for some.

Enter the Synagogue Vegan Challenge, an initiative co-sponsored by Shamayim, an organization devoted to Jewish animal advocacy, funded by the VegFund, that encourages synagogues to promote veganism for one year through food and programming. This year, Temple Chai is taking part along with seven Jewish institutions across the country.

The initiative was the brainchild of Yanklowitz, who has been vegan himself for a decade. He co-founded the national Jewish vegan movement with actor Mayim Bialik and singer Matisyahu.

Despite there being a robust Jewish vegan movement, said Yanklowitz, he and his co-founders realized Jewish institutions were not adapting to those needs.

“The idea is to give grants to synagogues who are going to provide more vegan options and vegan food programs, such as education, films, cooking demonstrations, conversation groups, book clubs and exposing people to food justice,” he said.

The challenge begins each fall, and participating Jewish institutions are given $2,500 for the food budget.

“We have a number of people who are very active in environmental issues and are very passionate about it,” said Rabbi Mari Chernow. “They inspired us and pushed us to take on this challenge. We’re in it for environmental, animal cruelty and health reasons.”

Chernow added that they are not imposing a vegan diet on the congregation but are excited to offer the opportunity to those who are interested in learning about veganism.

Due to COVID-19, participating synagogues moved programming online. Recently, Temple Chai showed the film “The Game Changers” via Zoom, which was attended by about 35 people, and hosted a panel discussion about the movie and its push for plant-based eating.

And as COVID precludes food preparation in the temple’s kitchen, Chernow said that they are encouraging people to cook on their own and are providing resources and recipes. Some cooking classes will be in the mix. There is a plan to teach congregants to make a vegan challah.

The challenge at Temple Chai has been met with enthusiasm.

“The feedback on this last event was extraordinary,” Chernow said. “They asked

a lot of great questions and are clearly interested. One person was uncomfortable and did not want the synagogue to push a vegan agenda — so there is that feeling too. It’s not going to be everybody’s cup of tea. But for those who are interested, it’s been fantastic.”

Yanklowitz acknowledged there is a huge nostalgia that centers around classic Jewish foods. The challenge, he said, is not about taking away beloved foods but exposing people to healthy alternatives. And on the educational front, this challenge can extend into broader educational campaigns beyond the year.

“Food justice is about animal welfare, environmental responsibility, human health, worker rights, hunger and poverty, about fair trade. We think food is so central to Jewish thought and practice that this is a launch to a much broader arena of learning and activism,” he said.

In 2017, Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley was among the first participants in the challenge, hosting two events per month.

Members created a vegan latke recipe for the synagogue’s Chanukah party that year. “We also have a family of Mexican origin, and she always makes churros and sufganiyot; she adapted them and made them vegan. It was awesome,” said Helen Jaffa, vice president of membership for TBSEV, who recommended the challenge.

Though not everyone was on board, Jaffa felt that the challenge was well worth it, and for those who were interested, it was a positive experience. “I think we educated more people. Although I heard some grumbling, individuals would come up to me and say, ‘I’m eating more plant-based now.’ I don’t think anyone went vegan, but I had some friends, already vegetarian, move more in that direction. If people are eating one less meal with meat, that is making a huge impact.”

Chernow said Temple Chai “values experimentation” and hopes people are open to hearing about the challenge. “We are not looking for the whole congregation to change the way they eat but to learn as much as possible and try something out and see how it goes,” she said.

And that is Yanklowitz’s intention.

Jewish institutions that embrace veganism will help the whole community move toward deeper ethical consumption practices, he said, though he is under no illusion that this will transform the entire Jewish community to veganism. Nonetheless, Yanklowitz hopes to change the minds of at least some people.

“We think that once people learn more about the environmental impact of factory farming, the human health impact, and the suffering of animals, more people will choose vegan options, especially once they see how tasty the food can be. We think it’s a win-win for everyone,” he said.

Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz speaks at a Vegan Synagogue Challenge event at Temple Beth

Jewish heritage is focus of EVJCC’s genealogy class

HILARY DANINHIRSCH | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Studying genealogy is a way of holding a mirror up to the past, and for a growing number of people it is a fascinating — yet time-consuming — hobby. Capitalizing on the zeitgeist, the East Valley Jewish Community Center is hosting “Finding your Family,” a sixweek class running Jan. 6-Feb. 10, via Zoom. This course is not a run-of-the-mill genealogy class, however. Its primary focus is connecting participants to their Jewish heritage.

Rabbi Michael Beyo, CEO of EVJCC, has been passionate about genealogy for years. He found some assistance recently when he met sisters Elizabeth (Lisa) Lee and Loretta (Lorrie) Walker, who, though not Jewish themselves, specialize in helping people trace their Jewish ancestry with their company, Daughters of Jacob Genealogy. The sisters put together a family book for Beyo, and although he had already completed extensive research on his own, the research done by Lee and Walker filled in several gaps.

“What they were able to provide us was additional information which I was not aware of, but also documented confirmation of some of our earlier speculations,” said Beyo. “The final research and packaging which they

have done has become a family heirloom. It is full of details, pictures, narrative, documents and more.”

Though the EVJCC held other genealogy classes and workshops in the past, this is the first one taught by the Daughters of Jacob. Lee and Walker were originally scheduled to teach a session at the Klezmer Fest last March, but the event was canceled due to the pandemic.

The six-week class introduces attendees to available tools for researching their Jewish family histories. Lee and Walker teach students how to use the tools, but ultimately the goal is to let people take the lead in their own story.

Lee has been interested in genealogy for most of her life. “It seems in every family, there is somebody who keeps the stories; it’s just who I am,” she said.

She became intrigued by Jewish family research when she took on the project for Beyo.

Though research on any family tree can be tricky, particularly if not starting out with a lot of information, Jewish genealogy in particular presents unique challenges.

“Jewish research is more difficult because the borders change so much over the years, and records aren’t good,” said Lee.

Other challenges include name changes and

language barriers.

“Sometimes, the governments would not let the kids have the father’s last name because they were trying to limit the Jewish population,” Lee said.

And if a family went through the Holocaust, the process is even more difficult. Not only are records sometimes unavailable, but Lee said that the stories can be emotionally difficult to sift through.

Still, she values “preserving history for the next generation so they can see the courage of the people in front of them,” she said.

With so many genealogy resources on the internet, people can easily be overwhelmed. The class led by Lee and Walker tries to pare down available information into digestible bites.

Perhaps it’s the effect of having been shuttered indoors for almost a year, but the genealogy hobby is taking off.

“It’s fun. It’s a mystery; it’s like a jigsaw

puzzle, but a hundred times better,” said Lee. “And it’s relaxing and something to do during COVID. With the stresses of our world today, it’s a healthy escape and a way to work on something that is not mindless.”

And having a multitude of websites available on the internet in addition to DNA testing, makes the process easier.

“In a modern world, where we are connected with others through pixels on a screen, we realize how much we need to know our history and memory to establish a sense of self,” said Beyo.

In a way, Beyo added, Judaism is obsessed with history, memory and genealogy.

“We play ‘Jewish geography’ as soon as we meet another person,” he said. “We have a deep-rooted need to be part of something bigger that has meaning and value. Family histories are one way in a disconnected and moral relativist world to give meaning to who we are.” JN

A slide from “Finding your Family” at the EVJCC

‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ features ‘Jewish princess’ from Phoenix

SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR

It wasn’t supposed to go that way.

Joey Jay, the 30-year-old Phoenixarea contestant on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 13, unexpectedly found himself on the chopping block in the opening moments of the show.

Previous seasons began with introductions, funny interludes between contestants, a challenge and a runway walk. Only then came elimination. But on Jan. 1, Jay and fellow contestant Kandy Muse barely had time for introductions when RuPaul appeared, saying they would lip-sync before the judges and the loser would be eliminated.

“RuPaul is right there and then you’re lip-syncing for your life,” said Jay, who describes his drag persona as a “Jewish princess.” “It was the scariest moment of my life.”

Later, in the show’s individual confessional, Jay laughed about possible “plot twists,” though as of press time it was unclear how the drama would play out. But Jay’s recent tweet, “S13 is basically just gay Saw,” seems ominous.

“It was so much and all of us were so taken by it, but tomorrow’s a new day,” he explained. “This is going to be lovely TV.”

Season 13 had other surprises thanks to COVID-19 — including the show’s 12-day quarantine.

“Twelve days of self-isolation in a hotel room, you kind of go a little crazy,” Jay said.

Jay’s drag career began just four years ago — and as a part-time gig at that. By day, he worked as an account manager at an educational software company in Mesa. He only did drag on Friday nights because of his work schedule.

“I really value and cherish sleep,” he said. “It was just really hard to function efficiently when the next day I had to sell.”

But the job was always a means to an

end — to save money for a condo and mark time while building a drag career.

Drag Race” just a month after starting drag.

“Let me tell you, the audition process is very lengthy and it takes a lot of time and long days — very stressful, long days,” Jay said.

His first two attempts weren’t successful, and he hopes no one ever sees his first audition tape: “If it surfaces, it’s not good,” he said jokingly.

But the third time was the charm. Winning a coveted place on the show so quickly isn’t the only unique thing about Jay’s drag career. For one, his drag name is rather low-key. Born Joey Jadryev, he didn’t feel a more flamboyant name would suit him. For another, Jay usually sports his own short hair rather than an elaborate wig, which is more the norm in the drag community.

His “boy hair” has drawn ire from other drag queens, but it’s something he feels strongly about — and a topic he was planning to address on the show after his runway appearance. But he wasn’t expecting to be in front of the judges right away. Depending on how things play out, he realizes “my plan could definitely go down the drain.”

Talking honestly and publicly about things that matter comes naturally to Jay: His social media accounts are full of support for causes like Black Lives Matter.

“When you get in drag you are a political statement — you’re not just in drag to put a wig on,” he said. “It’s your duty to educate people about Stonewall and Marsha P. Johnson.”

Given that many of the show’s fans are young and impressionable, Jay said he feels a responsibility to provide a perspective they might not otherwise get.

“Who knows what their parents are

telling them or what their parents stand for, but I know equality is right,” he said. “I’m a humanitarian and it’s just so important for these kids to know what’s right and wrong.”

People in the Phoenix area are proud of Jay’s success.

“I’ve been watching ‘Drag Race’ for years,” said Deb Behrendt, one of the chairs of AZ Jews for Pride. “I am proud that Joey Jay hails from Phoenix and is Jewish. I just feel like a proud mom watching Joey Jay slay!”

Behrendt’s co-chair, Cantor Ross Wolman of Temple Chai, appreciates that Jay has chosen to highlight Jewish identity.

That identity is very important to Jay, whose family in Los Angeles is “very Jewish,” he said. “Whenever I go visit them, we’re just throwing Yiddish at each other all day long and laughing and it’s so fun.” Jay was very close to his late grandmother, an Orthodox Jew, and attended virtual services at his mother’s synagogue for the High Holidays last year. “It’s really nice because a lot of people have their preferred pronouns and it’s very LGBT-friendly,” he said.

One regret, however, is missing out on a bar mitzvah. Growing up, Jay was a competitive figure skater and the family couldn’t afford both ice skating and a bar mitzvah. Jay’s grandmother advised that a bar mitzvah could be put off, but there was an expiration date on ice skating.

Even though Jay is “more lax” religiously than his grandmother, missing out on a bar mitzvah still rankles.

“To this day, I have not had a chance to get my bar mitzvah,” he said. “But it’s on my bucket list because I know if I don’t I’m going to have guilt for all eternity for my grandmother.” JN

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” airs Fridays at 8 p.m. on The CW Network, MTV, MTV2, PopTV and Logo.

Joey Jay out of and in drag.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOEY JAY

Temple Emanuel group focuses on racial justice

SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR

Hackers breaking into the virtual funeral service of Vice Mayor Calvin C. Goode to yell racist epithets on Jan. 12; the election of two Georgia Democratic senators — one Jewish and one Black; and a violent insurrection at the nation’s Capitol weren’t on the official agenda of the Temple Emanuel Racial Justice Study Group.

But Sally Oscherwitz, RJSG member, wasn’t surprised that it was all anyone wanted to talk about when the group met virtually last Thursday evening.

After all, RJSG was formed in the tumultuous days following the murder of George Floyd, when Oscherwitz called Rabbi Dean Shapiro of Temple Emanuel of Tempe and asked: “What are we going to do about this?”

In answer, Shapiro, Oscherwitz and others formed RJSG to provide a safe space to discuss the charged topic of racism openly and without recrimination.

The group’s leaders took time to find pertinent articles, podcasts and websites, make reading assignments and develop talking points. Since its first formal meeting in October, the group finished Ta-Nehisi Coates’ book “Between the World and Me.”

The group has discussed “difficult topics” like the racist tropes of the angry Black woman, the absent Black father and Black-on-Black crime, as well as reasons people of color might be suspicious of the COVID-19 vaccine based on historic wrongs such as the Tuskegee syphilis study.

Sometimes discussion on bigger issues transitions into something as basic as explaining the difference between the terms “Black,” “African American” and “person of color.” Taking the time to explain why those terms are not interchangeable rather than glossing over basic misunderstandings is significant, said Chris Castillejo, a Latinx member.

“The way we get talking, we go into all these other places that we didn’t know we were going to go,” she said.

Conversational dynamism is only one goal. Making people feel like allies is another.

Temple Emanuel is one of the more diverse

synagogues in Greater Phoenix, Castillejo said, but with only a few members of color, RJSG helps her find allies “who I can talk to as a person of color who’s also a Jew.”

The bonus to having “a safe space in the Jewish community,” she said, is that it puts the majority-white group more at ease for what can be “difficult conversations.” When the group brought up the topic of Jews of color, one Black member advised: “If you see a Black person in temple, don’t assume that they’re the help or the janitor, or that they’re lost or confused and that they need your help.”

Other than formal assignments, discussions sometimes start more casually when one person relates a personal experience and the group unpacks it. One member shared a story concerning a Black employee he managed in New York who was sometimes late to work. When he finally pulled him aside to warn him about his tardiness, the Black employee had to explain to him, the white employer, that driving to his job in Manhattan, he had to build in time to be pulled over by the police, which he often was, and sometimes it took more time than he allotted.

That story stays with Oscherwitz. She didn’t have a clear understanding of systemic racism before, she said. Considering the hurdles one Black man faced and how those problems would adversely affect his career trajectory opened her eyes.

“Even though awareness seems like a small thing, it’s a big thing,” Oscherwitz said.

“When people are aware, they’re more compassionate, they’re more understanding and more liable to teach others.”

RJSG also encourages its members to support Black-owned businesses. They’ve donated to the NAACP legal fund and the legal defense of Kenneth Walker, Breonna Taylor’s boyfriend.

“We don’t expect that our one little group will change the world,” Oscherwitz said, “but if we could just change our community, that would be a start.” JN

Additional reporting by Ellen O’Brien.

Temple Emanuel’s Racial Justice Study Group was inspired by the killing of George Floyd and the protests

PHOTO BY HARRINGTON HARRIS

You should know ... Sarah Ventre

SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR

Sarah Ventre is fascinated by people’s religious beliefs and the profound impact they have on their lives and identity. Her recent podcast “Unfinished: Short Creek,” which tells the stories of members and ex-members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS) on the border of Arizona and Utah, was named one of 2020’s best podcasts by The New Yorker and The Atlantic, giving her a national profile.

But for all her work on the project, Ventre didn’t start out on the religion beat. In college she covered music for Phoenix New Times and after graduation did the same for NPR’s “All Songs Considered” in Washington, D.C. It wasn’t until she was back in Phoenix working as a producer and news reporter for KJZZ, the local NPR station, that she found the story she would focus on for more than four years.

In 2016, Ventre covered the trial of the U.S. Department of Justice against two towns on the Arizona and Utah border — the Short Creek community — for religious discrimination. A few years earlier, FLDS made headlines thanks to its leader and self-proclaimed prophet, Warren Jeffs, currently serving a life sentence for child sexual assault. But his arrest didn’t end the troubles of the polygamous church and its divided community.

Ventre and her co-host, Ash Sanders, don’t focus on scandal or look to score points on the show. They take the time to tell a nuanced story of an insular and seemingly byzantine community. Ventre even lived in Short Creek for three months in order to get to know the people she covered and understand their routines.

Sanders grew up in the LDS Church, but Ventre was raised with a strong Jewish identity — one she developed as an active member at Temple Emanuel in Tempe. She even described celebrating Selichot while living at the former prophet’s house in a bonus episode. Ventre spoke with Jewish News about how being a part of a religious minority helped her bring a complicated story to light.

How did you get involved with this story?

In 2016, I helped cover the towns’ trial for KJZZ, and I had always been really interested in this community and interested in religion reporting.

Between court sessions, I interviewed one of the witnesses who was ex-FLDS. I had so many questions for him, and it was clear that I wasn’t going to be able to ask him everything all at once, so I

asked if we could stay in touch. I kept following up and eventually he invited me to a Fourth of July celebration in the community. That’s the first time I went for a visit.

It was nothing like what I expected. There were more people who were open to talking. There were a lot of stories in the community that were not being told, and I felt very compelled to tell them. It was a fascinating place that is typically only talked about in a very particular way.

What attracted you to the community?

It’s a microcosm of what’s happening in America. They’re dealing with a lot of the same issues that we’re dealing with across the country.

I had a really complicated relationship with my mom, who left me, and although we’re in touch now, I was interested in a place where people had fractured relationships with their family members, how they dealt with that and how they repaired and rebuilt relationships.

This community was so much about belief and faith and resiliency and coming back from difficult circumstances with a very deep, important connection to family.

In one episode about hidden identities, you mention hesitating at times to let people know you’re Jewish. Why is that? There were times in public school that I was reminded I was a minority in ways that didn’t feel good. My mom would have to call the school district and explain why having a standardized district-wide test on Yom Kippur was a problem, and there was some casual anti-Semitism. Sometimes kids just say things to get a rise out of you, but there were times when the things said were anti-Semitic in nature and that felt really awful. I remember growing up and really feeling like, even though I had a strong Jewish identity, that once people knew I was Jewish, sometimes they treated me differently, asked me different kinds of questions or they were careful about how they talked to me about certain things. It felt like I had to make a decision if and when I was going to tell someone I’m Jewish, knowing that it might change the way they see me. And it took me a long time to unpack that — I still have to unpack that sometimes.

How did that experience affect your interaction with residents of Short Creek?

It was interesting being in a place where my identity is very different from the people that I’m spending time with. That experience has an aspect of

universality to it that I hadn’t quite understood before.

I definitely knew what it meant to be a minority religion, where people don’t understand what you believe, and also where your beliefs are misrepresented or misstated or taken out of context frequently. Being a religious minority and then working in a community that was a very different religious minority in some ways did give me insight into the community.

Did being Jewish create difficulties in covering members of FLDS?

Jewish cultural norms, and the cultural norms that I grew up with, are in some ways very different from the cultural norms in Short Creek, and there were things that I struggled with.

Jews are often really straightforward and open about talking about things — even difficult things. In Short Creek there were a lot of things that were said in a way that felt coded or that had subtext that I sometimes miss, or there was a certain way that people would express that they were upset about something without saying outright that they were upset about it, and it took me a long time to catch onto it. I still don’t feel like I catch it every time.

Even though I grew up in Phoenix and was only a six-hour drive from Short Creek, it felt like a very different culture to be immersing myself in. But I was able to understand a lot of aspects of it, in some ways, better than Ash was.

Why did you spend three months in the home of one of the former leaders?

I had always wanted to spend a lot of time there. And it was my idea to live there. I have been reporting on Short Creek since 2016, and every time I went I felt like I couldn’t get everything I needed in that short of a time. There were things I was missing. The best way for me to truly understand it would be to spend as much time there as possible.

I was doing a kind of mini-ethnography. There’s value placed on really spending time with people and learning in an ethnographic context.

How does it feel to get so much praise for the podcast?

Knowing that people listened and it was

a companion for them in a really awful year, knowing that people connected with it and felt so strongly about it is a really incredible honor. We’re really proud of the thing that we made. To know other people connected with it and saw themselves in it or felt strongly about it is amazing.

What do people in Short Creek think of the podcast?

I’ve heard from some people who were in the show that they were really happy to hear it and that they thought it was a really excellent deep dive portrayal of the community and that we got things that other people hadn’t gotten before. We did hear from one or two people who felt like it wasn’t quite right, who felt like the way we describe things wasn’t exactly fair and we didn’t get everything in the way we should. It is to be expected in a community that is divided and as complex as that community that not everyone is going to love it.

What are you working on next?

I’m helping produce someone else’s show, and I’m really excited about it. It’s a really interesting investigative story. I also want to continue working in insular religious communities. There is a lot of rich storytelling to be done in those communities and it’s such a challenge because it’s very easy to other those communities, or to be really sensationalist in the way that you present the information.

I tried really hard to be mindful of that. I’m hoping that I’m able to continue to work in religious communities, because religion is such an interesting and rich way in which to tell stories — whether someone is religious or not or whether they’re spiritual or not. Everybody believes in something. And understanding what people believe and why they believe it and how that drives the way they live their life is an incredible way to look at humanity. JN

Sarah Ventre does research in a library in St. George, Utah, near Short Creek.

PHOTO BY JOHN DELORE

Panel discusses ethical eating, pandemic

SOPHIE PANZER | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

While working on an essay about Judaic ethics in a pandemic, Rabbi Jonathan Crane came across an ancient source that caught him off guard.

The small vignette in the Babylonian Talmud spoke of a great third-century sage who declared a fast after hearing of a pestilence spreading among pigs, maintaining that the disease could spread to humans because of similarities between the two species’ organs.

The vignette surprised Crane, a scholar in bioethics and Jewish thought at Emory University Center for Ethics, for several reasons.

“First, there is concern about the spillover effect of diseases crossing species long before germ theory took hold among naturalists and scientists in the late 19th century,” he said. “Second, this concern about zoonotic diseases is found in religious resources, and not in medical or public health instructions, or in secular essays on farming.”

Crane spoke about the ancient sage’s urgent response to a disease among animals as part of “Animals, Religion, and Public Health: An Interfaith Webinar.” The Jan. 13 virtual event explored how religious perspectives could be used to address the flaws the pandemic has revealed in the food industry and to prevent future outbreaks.

Moderator Rev. Aline Silva noted that the crowded, filthy conditions of factory farms contributed to the emergence of drug-resistant superbugs, and that scientists had discovered that swine and bird flu evolved on farms. She reminded viewers of the hazardous working conditions facing workers in meat processing plants, many of whom are poor, Black and brown or immigrants without other employment options. According to the Food and Environmental Reporting Network, more than 200 meatpacking workers have died

of COVID-19 since March.

The panelists agreed that grave humanitarian and animal welfare concerns emerged because of the disconnect between humans and their food.

“We currently rely on a system that works based on distancing and concealment,” said Magfirah Dahlan-Taylor, an instructor of philosophy and world religions at Craven Community College.

Dahlan-Taylor said that the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha, which is often celebrated with an entire community participating in and sharing a sacrifice, offers an opportunity for people to reflect on their obligations to each other as humans and to non-human animals.

Carter said the pandemic made him reflect more critically about how his eating habits aligned with his Christian ethics. He acknowledged that changing eating habits, which often follow centuries-old traditions, could be challenging.

He advised leaders to start conversations by inviting people to tell stories about why they choose to eat the way they do. Once people started thinking critically about their habits, it would become easier to see how food choices can be changed to align more closely with religious values.

Because having the confidence & peace of mind of accreditation is important.

Rev. Christopher Carter, assistant professor, assistant chair and department diversity officer of theology and religious studies at University of San Diego, said the hazardous conditions facing meat processing workers at Tyson food plants showed how even when food corporations take pride in their essential status during the pandemic, the essential labor and humanity of their employees is often rendered invisible by systemic racism.

So, what is to be done?

Dan McKanan, Ralph Waldo Emerson Unitarian Universalist senior lecturer at Harvard Divinity School, argued that while food is traditionally treated as an individual choice, meaningful change could only be achieved if it was considered a communal act with ramifications for others. His fellow panelists agreed, citing traditions from their own faith that illustrated this point.

Crane said the vignette from the Talmud illustrated the interconnectedness of food systems in the ancient world. Even though Jews did not eat pigs, they were still impacted by others’ choices to do so and had to grapple with uncomfortable conversations that arose as a result.

“Who am I, to talk about your dietary patterns? Yet, this is precisely one of the points of these sources and our conversation today: your eating practices inexorably impact me, and everyone else, and vice versa,” he said.

He added that the laws of kashrut primed Jews to think about righteous eating and communal values. Jewish and non-Jewish communities alike, he noted, could identify their core values and choose to eat in ways that uphold them.

The event was organized by CreatureKind, Jewish Initiative For Animals, Shamayim Jewish Animal Advocacy and Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry. JN

That’s why La Siena is accredited by CARF International, an independent organization that sets exceedingly high standards for care & service. We think you’ll find that our accreditation is only one of the many reasons to take a good look at La Siena.

your personalized tour.

Rabbi Jonathan Crane (lower left) discusses Jewish food ethics on an interfaith panel

COURTESY OF CREATUREKIND

HUMANITARIAN AND ANIMAL WELFARE CONCERNS EMERGED BECAUSE OF THE DISCONNECT BETWEEN HUMANS AND THEIR FOOD.

How did American Jewish names come to be?

JESSE BERNSTEIN | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

There is a story typically told about the manner in which Jewish names and naming practices developed in the United States, especially as it regards surnames.

Unscrupulous Ellis Island immigration agents, the conventional wisdom goes, saw a jumbled mass of unpronounceable Jewish surnames and, with the stroke of a pen, made sure that the names never made the journey with their bearers. Names that ended in -wicz became -witz, -ski became -sky, Meir became Meyer. Ethnic specificity, wiped out in the name of enforced assimilation.

According to Kirsten Fermaglich, one of the few scholars in the world to devote serious study to American Jewish naming practices, the real yarn is quite a bit knottier, and quite a bit longer. Just for starters, she challenges the timeline of that commonly told story.

“It’s important to me not to see name changing as completely a product of the immigration process,” Fermaglich said. “Because actually, for a lot of Jews, it happens as a product of American antiSemitism, rather than as a product of natural immigration and whatever people think of as Americanization.”

Even her own name, Fermaglich recently told The Jewish Standard, is

a rebuke to the Ellis Island story — “Fermaglich” represents a relative’s own adjustment to an even more unwieldy Polish Jewish name.

Fermaglich is a historian of Jewish studies at Michigan State University, where she’s taught since 2001. In 2018, Fermaglich published “A Rosenberg by Any Other Name: A History of Jewish Name Changing in America,” seeking to complicate the typical conception of American Jewish naming practices.

For starters, Fermaglich noted, the surnames that Jews changed as they came to America from Europe were often fairly new — most Jews didn’t start using last names until the 19th century, when the development of modern states began to require the practice. And though some countries were fairly permissive in allowing Jews to choose their own surnames, restrictions were quickly applied in order to mark certain names as Jewish. So the precious surnames of the Ellis Island story may not have been held so preciously or for so long.

Some of those names, like Cohen and Levy, predate the widespread use of surnames, as they served a religious function, but your Feinsteins, Goldbergs and Horowitzs, for example, are likely to

be of a much more recent vintage.

What Fermaglich found in her research was that it was frequently Jews themselves who, uncoerced, chose to adopt surnames that sanded down the sharper, more obviously Jewish edges into softer American nubs.

Entry into the marketplace and higher education could be made easier for Jewish men and women without a name so obviously Semitic. And entering into the social circles of non-Jewish Americans could be a much smoother exercise, many Jewish immigrants and their descendants found, by adopting their names. In this way, name changes became a route to middle-class respectability for Jews who desperately sought it.

One doesn’t need to be a scholar of American Jewry to infer that this practice was not without controversy among American Jews, who argued bitterly about how much was too much when it came to pragmatic assimilation.

Fermaglich, according to The Jewish Standard, unearthed letters to the editor in both general and Jewish magazines that featured fiery back-and-forth between American Jews on the subject.

Though Fermaglich’s research is focused on the development of American

Jewish surnames, she’s also able to shed some light on their first names.

Many (though not all) American Jews have a separate Hebrew name, one that might only be used within the walls of a synagogue or some other religious context. Though this may appear to be another development of American assimilation, Fermaglich said, the practice of maintaining a second name for religious purposes predates American Jewry. What changed in the U.S., she noted, was that the mutating role of women in religious contexts sparked questions about the utility of having a Hebrew name. But secular, English first names, like surnames, were often chosen as another manner of assimilation, Fermaglich said. Mendel, Menachem and Lev became Milton, Morris and Louis over a few generations. What happened, however, was that the speed of anti-Semitism was such that these seemingly innocuous names soon became marked as Jewish names, imperiling their originally designated purpose. What was meant to be the absence of ethnicity instead became a clear sign of it. JN

Jesse Bernstein is a staff writer for Jewish Exponent, a Jewish News-affiliated publication.

Kirsten Fermaglich’s 2018 book, “A Rosenberg by Any Other Name: A History of Jewish Name Changing in America,” complicates the story of Ellis Island name changes.

landing at Ellis Island, New York.

Jamie Geller partners with Aish Global for new media initiative

TOBY KLEIN GREENWALD

“Kosher Queen” Jamie Geller is taking on a new challenge. The author of seven bestselling cookbooks and the founder and CEO of Kosher Network International (KNi), Geller is partnering with Aish Global to create a new media network.

The partnership was announced on Chanukah during a live candle lighting ceremony and concert viewed by over 100,000 people at the Aish World Center across from the Kotel.

Geller — whose personality-driven KNi, the parent company of jamiegeller. com and @jewlishbyjamie, draws millions of followers through a strong social media presence with thousands of recipes and viral how-to videos — attributes much of her success to her upbringing.

“I have such gratitude for my background. There were so many successes that came out of it,” she said. “I grew up in a very healthy, robust, wellattended Conservative synagogue. I had a strong background in [Jewish] education, and Zionism was preached and adopted there; there was a huge love for Israel.”

After attending New York University, Geller worked at CNN and HBO.

“I was on the sets of TV shows, on film sets, met celebrities,” she said. “My mother was so nervous that after everything she did — sending me to a Jewish school and shul and Camp Ramah in the Poconos my whole Jewish life — I would meet a non-Jewish guy.”

She needn’t have worried.

“I went to singles events run by Rebbetzin [Esther] Jungreis and to the Aish New York Monday parshah class, where they would try to make the parshas relevant to your life,” she recalled. “I loved it and it moved me, and I went to an Aish Discovery Shabbaton, and it was 20 years to this year, on Parshat Miketz, that I decided I wanted to become shomer Shabbos. I knew all the davening, so I was comfortable in Hebrew, from school.”

After a decade-long career as an awardwinning TV producer and marketing executive, Geller’s second career as celebrity chef was somewhat unexpected — especially given that before she was married, she used her oven in Manhattan for storage.

“We were newlyweds and my husband said, ‘What’s for dinner?’ and I said, ‘I don’t know. You tell me!”’ Geller said. “My grandparents on both sides were amazing chefs. One was a proprietor of his own unbelievable restaurant. My grandmother had a natural gift. On the other side, my grandfather was a butcher

and a tremendous cook; they called him ‘Chefu,’ not ‘Dad,’ which means ‘chef’ in Romanian. My parents emigrated from Transylvania to Pennsylvania in 1964.

“Then my husband taught me how to cook. He’s a dream, he worked in catering, his whole family cooked. To this day, he’s my sous chef.”

While she was on maternity leave from HBO, Geller wrote a cookbook at her husband’s urging. “It became an autobiography — how I married, made mistakes in the kitchen — and I needed recipes, so I wrote those after I wrote the book.”

That book was “Quick & Kosher — Recipes From the Bride Who Knew Nothing.”

“I had called a Jewish publisher but they declined a meeting with me because they were already committed to a different cookbook author, so I called Feldheim Publishers and said, ‘I’m a producer at HBO, can I have a meeting?’ and I got it. They printed 10,000 copies and they sold out in a few weeks. It’s now in its seventh printing, and has been translated to Hebrew.”

Now, many books and 1 billion video views later, Geller is known for being able to connect with a Jewish audience — which is precisely why Aish Global pulled her in and made her their chief media and marketing officer. The goal of the partnership, over the next 10 years,

is to connect 3 million Jews around the world to their Jewish identity “through cutting-edge, quality, professional and commercially viable Jewish entertainment and edutainment,” Geller said. “The programs will be stratified — covering a diverse range of topics.”

The visionary and architect of the plan, said Geller, was Rabbi Yitzchak Berkovits, the rosh yeshiva of the Aish HaTorah Yeshiva in Jerusalem.

“We hope to reach Jews who are so far living without any Judaism in their lives. Maybe they’re Jewish by birth, maybe they identify, maybe not,” Geller explained. “Aish is not looking for ownership. They have a spirit of collaboration and inclusion and the goal is to find, to help, to support and to partner with the talent that is out there.”

“We see the enthusiasm for the [Netflix series] ‘Unorthodox,’ which wasn’t ‘sold’ to Jewish audiences,” she added. “It all starts with quality content. … People will come if the content is compelling, creative and entertaining.”

Geller knows a little bit about compelling content. Before she started KNi, Geller worked on some big hits, including “Sex in the City” and “The Sopranos.”

“Regarding “Sex in the City,” I was a single girl living in Manhattan. It certainly wasn’t my life, but it spoke to so many, it had its finger on the pulse of culture and

society and I think there was value for the culture in the society at that time. I learned a lot from that experience.”

Working on those projects gave her insight that she’d use later.

“When I became religious, I was crying, wondering, ‘Why did I waste 10 years of my life? How would this be relevant to me now?’ But it has been the most relevant professional experience, for everything I have done. That career and specific professional experience and expertise has opened every single door.”

Now, the Gellers don’t even have a TV in their home. “But I do keep my ear to the ground and make sure that I’m informed and watch elements of whatever is trending in streaming programming,” Geller said. “I often go outside of the Jewish world to my network of contacts when it comes to production and marketing.”

She will surely do some of that in her new role with Aish. The organization is looking forward to having Geller onboard.

“This is an initiative for and by the Jewish people,” said Aish CEO Rabbi Steven Burg. This isn’t about building up Aish. This is about building and improving the world.” JN

Toby Klein Greenwald is an award-winning journalist, theater director and editor-in-chief of WholeFamily.com.

Jamie Geller lights the menorah with her daughter at the Aish World Center during the Facebook Live announcement of the partnership.

PHOTO BY TODD ROSENBLATT

A brief delay of an impeachment trial is a good thing

An apocryphal story has George Washington explaining to Thomas Jefferson that a bicameral Congress is the superior model because the Senate will be the “saucer” where the “hot tea” from the more politically tempestuous House of Representatives can “cool.” Although saucers have largely gone the way of knee breaches and powdered wigs, the analogy fits the current impeachment process that Congress is considering.

Despite criticism that it moved too fast, the House did the right thing in acting quickly to consider and pass an article of impeachment charging former President Donald Trump with “incitement of insurrection” for his role in the deadly Jan. 6 Capitol attack. Ten Republicans joined Democrats in the 232 to 197 vote. Just days earlier, all of those voting experienced the insurrection firsthand — from under their desks or from safe locations where they were sheltered — as people died nearby.

This is the hot tea of impeachment that the House will hand to the Senate. The fact that the Senate will not take up the charge against Trump until after he is

out of office is better than if the trial had been hurried. Emotions will have cooled. Additional time will enable senators to consider things more thoughtfully, with a clear understanding of Trump’s

impeachment. There is no place in our democracy for such intimidation, and it must be addressed. With their orchestrated attack, malevolent messaging, displayed weaponry and execution scaffolding,

were afraid to vote for impeachment because they feared for their families’ safety to come forward. And we join conservative columnist Jennifer Rubin, who wrote in The Washington Post: “If these complaints about fear are legitimate, lawmakers committed a gross dereliction of duty by not coming forward with the information and by casting votes contrary to their oaths. And if they really were cowed into voting with the mob, they should consider leaving public life.”

actions, their implications and the need for possible punishment.

We are troubled by the concern for the safety of Republican legislators who opposed Trump’s contentions of election fraud and conspiracy, and voted for his

Sheldon Adelson’s legacy

In the worlds of philanthropic and political giving, Sheldon Adelson was a generational figure. He was a man of extraordinary wealth who invested heavily in causes in which he believed, and he never faltered under the scrutiny or criticism of some of his choices. Quite simply, the man described broadly as “the casino magnate” put his money where his mouth was, and made a difference.

When he died last week at age 87, the causes Adelson was best known for — the presidency of Donald Trump, the Republican Party and the Israel of Benjamin Netanyahu — were all at a delicate inflection point.

With a reported net worth of $35 billion — a fortune built on an empire of casinos and resort hotels — Adelson was a major force in the Republican Party, having supported prominent Republicans like President George W. Bush, Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich, and was the largest single backer of the Trump campaign in 2016, and again in 2020. “Few have wielded so much influence inside the Republican Party without having run for office,” Time magazine

We

wrote last week. “Adelson proved his ability to bankroll candidates, campaigns and causes of his liking.”

Adelson’s influence — and his access to the centers of power — gave him a voice in his other great cause, the State of Israel,

the white supremacists who attacked the Capitol are a clear danger. And it is troubling that law enforcement appears to have been slow to recognize the full threat of right-wing terrorism. We call upon any Republicans who

There must be a full accounting for the attempted coup and Trump’s role in it. This is a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, and Congress has the responsibility to address it fully. Many worry that President Biden, with significant issues already on his plate, shouldn’t be distracted by the past, and needs Congress fully focused on his healing agenda. We disagree. While we want the new president to hit the ground running, the Senate should be able to conduct all of its legislative duties even as it fulfills its constitutional responsibility to conduct an impeachment trial. If they’re not up to the job, they should resign. JN

the Zionist Organization of America, among others. He was also seen as one of the driving forces behind some of Trump’s pro-Israel policies, including the move of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, recognition of the Golan Heights and

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces and Israeli-American Council, and active in AIPAC, until it recommended flexibility on the Palestinians, which Adelson opposed.

Adelson was joined in his philanthropy by his wife, Miriam, a physician, who is expected to carry on his support of numerous Israeli educational, social and political programs and a wide variety of charitable organizations and programs in the United States. And while Adelson was best known for his political activity, his Adelson Family Foundation’s involvement in programs promoting education and health care could be among his most lasting legacy.

and particularly the Greater Israel vision of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He was a major backer of Netanyahu and his Likud Party, bankrolled the proNetanyahu newspaper Israel Hayom, and was the most significant funder of the Republican Jewish Coalition and

the U.S. exit from the Iran nuclear deal.

Adelson was also a major supporter of the Jewish identity-building phenomenon Taglit-Birthright Israel — the program responsible for more than 600,000 young Jews visiting Israel over the past two decades — along with Yad Vashem,

A NOTE ON OPINION

One doesn’t have to agree with everything that Adelson did or supported in order to appreciate the magnitude of his impact. Adelson’s example of commitment and activism, and the good that has come from so many of the causes he supported, reminds us of the difference each of us can make, particularly in this time of turmoil and uncertainty.

May his memory be a blessing. JN

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

THE FACT THAT THE SENATE WILL NOT TAKE UP THE CHARGE AGAINST TRUMP UNTIL AFTER HE IS OUT OF OFFICE IS BETTER THAN IF THE TRIAL HAD BEEN HURRIED.

WHILE ADELSON WAS BEST KNOWN FOR HIS POLITICAL ACTIVITY, HIS FAMILY FOUNDATION'S INVOLVEMENT IN PROGRAMS PROMOTING EDUCATION AND HEALTH CARE COULD BE AMONG HIS MOST LASTING LEGACY.

Honoring my Catholic roots in Israel

NATASHA PEREIRA | JNS.ORG

t may seem counterintuitive, but my aliyah journey would not have been possible without my Catholic upbringing.

The daughter of Portuguese and Italian immigrants, I am a first-generation American. Like many, my parents came to the United States in pursuit of the American Dream. Leaving small agrarian communities in Western Europe, they arrived in the United States with their respective families to make a new home in Boston’s North End.

They didn’t know anyone. They didn’t speak English. They didn’t know how this gamble to move across the world would materialize in the end. Yet, despite these hurdles, the promise of a better life fueled them to make this new American life work.

And so, they did. My grandparents, parents and their siblings worked tirelessly in restaurants and bakeries to construct better lives for themselves and future generations.

My sister and I are the personification of my family’s American Dream. As a result of their sacrifices and conviction, we were able to experience and enjoy our

childhood and adolescence in comfort. We could also reach for and achieve opportunities that were never opened to my parents. In 2013, my sister became the first person in our family to receive a master’s degree. In 2018, I became the first person to attend and graduate from law school.

My sister and I operated in a life paved by parents’ efforts, but we were also instilled with their values of determination, optimism and hard work. It is these tenets that supported my

Master of Laws and Doctor of Juridical Science, Yehonatan delved into the local Jewish community as a way to feel closer to his home. I accompanied him during these events, gaining my first substantial exposure to Judaism, its culture, traditions, religion and history. I was fascinated. I was moved. I was enamored.

When Yehonatan went back to Israel, I missed him but I also missed the vibrant Jewish community he had introduced me to. Although lacking my Jewish

HAD YOU TOLD ME 10 YEARS AGO THAT I WOULD BE CONVERTING TO JUDAISM AND MOVING TO ISRAEL, I WOULD HAVE LAUGHED AT YOUR WILD IMAGINATION.

decision to come to Israel and start a new chapter of my life.

Had you told me 10 years ago that I would be converting to Judaism and moving to Israel, I would have laughed at your wild imagination. But as I disembarked from the United Airlines plane last week with Nefesh B’Nefesh and touched down in Tel Aviv, that is exactly what I have done.

This unexpected trajectory was put into motion when I met my fiancé, Yehonatan, at the University of Virginia School of Law. As an Israeli pursuing his

liaison, I continued to participate in the Charlottesville Jewish community, always finding a warm welcome and deep learning at the local Chabad House. This Jewish community was no longer a group I tagged along to join, but something that fed my soul. I would get goosebumps when people sang “Shalom Aleichem,” I felt a harmony between my worldview and the principles espoused in my Torah lessons, and I felt a deep admiration for the resilience and courage of the Jewish people. A special and unexpected awakening was happening.

Excited to build and embrace a permanent Jewish identity, I began the challenging conversion process. My conversion was a seismic event in my life. It pushed me to new limits of selfreflection and showed me how much the people in my life loved me. My parents and sister supported me, adjusting their usual lifestyles so that there would now be room for my Jewish one. If one lifechanging event was not enough, I then decided to move to Israel.

Although I am still coming to terms with how rapidly my life has changed, I believe my path honors my parents’ immigration legacy. My mother and father fought for a life where their children could pursue their truths and be happy.

That freedom has led me here to Israel. It has allowed me to make what Natan Sharansky calls an “aliyah of choice” — an aliyah that is done not because I wish to escape the place I am from but is done for ideological purposes.

Like all new olim during this surreal COVID-19 era, it was not the easiest aliyah experience. Government offices were closed, most documents had to be sent by snail mail, and an influx of immigration interest caused new documentation requirements.

But like my conversion, I often shy away from the easy path. With the

SEE PEREIRA, PAGE 14

We must do more to protect essential workers

DORIT SASSON

ith the threat of a renewed coronavirus outbreak, essential workers are even more needed on the front lines. Every day, our essential employees risk their lives to protect ours. Our nation has a responsibility to protect the health and financial stability of these heroes and their families.

As the wife of an essential worker, I deeply understand the risks that these essential workers face every day. They are trapped in what I refer to as a “psychological malaise” stemming from fear of exposure. They are asking themselves, “Have I already been exposed to the disease? Will I need to take a COVID test? Is it possible that I could die from complications? What will this mean for my family? For my job?”

Because it’s difficult to adequately measure the risks, especially in grocery

Wstore environments, it’s even more necessary to require closer monitoring. Establishing a “good neighbor policy” triage system of checking in on each other is what’s needed right now to create a sense of community. This cost-effective, easy-to-implement strategy begins with management asking their employees daily, “Are you OK? Is there anything you need?”

Embracing the notion that we’re all in this together will, I hope, create a stronger sense of community, especially in retail and medical environments where workers may be trapped in their feelings of loneliness due to the stress and fear of potentially being exposed to the disease. But all too often, these vulnerable workers end up “playing it safe” for fear of losing their jobs.

Establishing an “I’ve got your back” community-wide system could be great news for mental health, as research demonstrates an increase in mental health issues. Recent case studies have shown that “the feeling of increased social

support and of being in this together may help limit increases in loneliness.” I look forward to seeing what will be revealed in future studies of companies that decide to implement such “good neighbor policies.”

Our government needs a better understanding of these essential workers — from retail to medical establishments and particularly those in customer-facing roles and the risks they face. Emerging research shows that these workers are five times as likely to test positive as their colleagues in other positions, which raises the question of whether essential workers potentially exposed to COVID-19 can manage coronavirusrelated health impacts in their own lives. Already, many of them are at an economic disadvantage — generally earning lower wages and carrying less health-related insurance. Because of their high risk of exposure, our country should regard COVID-19 essential workers similar to trained military professionals and offer a benefits package that represents

their obligations and dangers. There are some essential workers who feel that at the end of the day, all companies really only care about is increased efficiency and revenue. Even as we’re hoping for favorable outcomes with the vaccine rollout, our human supply chain is breaking and crumbling. We are not talking about keeping up with the supply chain of toilet paper or wipes. If anything, after a renewed outbreak globally with more than 1 million reported deaths worldwide, this pandemic will have taught us the fragility of the human supply chain.

Our essential workers are the heart of our global economy, and without them, our retail, grocery and hospital systems would not exist. Since our essential workers risk their lives every day to protect others, our nation and individual companies should speak up and show them how much they matter. JN

Dorit Sasson is a certified SEO content strategist and writing coach. Her new memoir is “Sand and Steel: The Spiritual Journey Home.”

Be true to yourself

BO EXODUS 10:1-13:16

RABBI GAVRIEL GOETZ

ransitions of any kind are difficult, and we must consider the best way to make it through them while still being true to who we are.

One big transition for any young person happens when they leave home to go to college or even abroad to Israel. I sought advice from the high school seniors in our school about how they are preparing to face the big transition that will happen when they graduate. They answered that they will need to be true to themselves no matter what happens. That is a good answer for all of us.

These students learned values from their families growing up. A young person going to Israel might worry their environment could change who they are, but they will still have their relationships and be the same person no matter the new

surroundings. That should not change who they are. Even as they develop and grow, hopefully becoming better people, they can stay true to themselves. They will simply be improving and building on their past.

TWhen the Jewish people faced dramatic change, they also stayed true to themselves in amazing ways. During their greatest transition, from slavery in Egypt to freedom, they stayed true to themselves and served the creator who made them into a nation.

The sages in the Talmud tell us of the merit of the righteous women who were in that generation, [the children of] Israel were redeemed from Egypt (B. Talmud Sotah 11b). The women never changed. They always believed and did what was necessary to build the Jewish home, the Talmud explains.

“And there they became a nation” Minor Pesikta, Devarim (Ki Tavo). The Israelites were distinct in their clothing, food and language. All of it was different from the Egyptians. They were identified and known as a separate nation, apart from the Egyptians.

The sages tell us that those who went out of Egypt are those who were not afraid to live as a Jew and did not change.

You may be surprised to know that not all the Jews came out of Egypt. The others passed away during the plague of darkness so the Egyptians should not see the Jews dying. Why? These Jews were not true to themselves and got pulled into the Egyptian culture and wanted to stay in Egypt.

I would like to share a personal example of someone who was always true to himself: my rebbe, Rabbi Yakov Moshe Kulefsky, of blessed memory, was always true to himself. He was in the U.S. Army during World War II. He had been drafted near the end of the war while he was attending Yeshiva Torah Vada’as and was stationed in the United States.

On days off he was allowed to go back to yeshiva, but he always had to wear his uniform. This rule applied even during Shabbos and the holidays. He could often be found studying during his time off in the yeshiva study hall wearing his uniform. He even taught classes in the

YATOM and the importance of working within the Jewish community

JESSIELYN HIRSCHL

I’ve known I wanted to adopt for as long as I can remember.

From a young age it was something I voiced to my parents and friends. When I met my husband we spoke about it often, but we found it hard to do the research. Welcoming a child into your home is, after all, a huge endeavor. Each time we would get interested, we would soon become overwhelmed by the amount of information on the internet.

How would we pick an agency? How would we know when we’re ready? Would we even be accepted? For so many reasons we put it off, until we heard about the YATOM Family Fellowship Program.

YATOM: The Jewish Foster & Adoption Network is inspired by the Torah commandment to love and protect vulnerable children. This organization works to advocate for the needs of orphans, children needing temporary homes and adoptive families. The program specifically strives to motivate and support Jewish families and individuals in their journey of adopting and/or fostering children.

While the program is based in Arizona, having been founded by Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, it is open to Jewish families and individuals throughout the country.

Knowing that this network was not only focused on adopting and fostering, but that it was rooted in Judaism was an immediate draw for us. Ultimately, we believe it is the reason we were finally ready to start doing the research and move forward with our journey.

No other programs seemed to align with our values of building a Jewish home. Especially considering that many children available for adoption or fostering are not Jewish, we needed support in figuring out how to go about this process and welcome a child while not turning our backs on our core values. This program offered the community we so desperately needed when taking such a big step.

My husband and I are about halfway through the program now and our eyes have truly been opened. There is so much to learn, and this program has given us a great foundation to better understand what we need to consider before taking the big step. Our cohort meets every other month and we not only get the opportunity to check in with one another and learn about our journeys, we also hear from dedicated professionals.

To date we have heard from the executive director of a local adoption agency, studied the Jewish commentary on the importance of adoption and fostering with Rabbi Yanklowitz and learned about the different stages of child development from a developmental pediatrician.

Through all of the great speakers and

information, it is the core group of like-minded individuals that keeps us wanting to come back and explore more. It is the Jewish connection that sets the stage for a safe environment, where there is no question, worry or doubt that cannot be shared. Each person or couple in this group is in a different stage in their journey.

My husband and I appreciate this set-up. Since we are at the very beginning of our journey, we are not only able to learn from the professionals who are available to teach us, but we are also able to learn from those in the group who are further along in the process or who have already welcomed a child into their home. These are our biggest cheerleaders who, whether they know it or not, are giving us the confidence to succeed.

Whether it be adoption, fostering or another milestone in your life, the importance of looking within the Jewish community for support is imperative. YATOM not only shares the tools and resources one needs to enter the world of adoption and fostering, but they build a support system rooted in Judaism.

This experience has continued to prove to us something that we have valued for most of our lives: You can always count on the Jewish community to help and support you. When looking for a place to start, always start within the Jewish community. JN

yeshiva during these times in his uniform.

Rabbi Kulefsky made sure to remain himself when he was on the army base too. He always had piles of books of Sefarim /Judaica next to his bed and would try find any light left on in order to study late into the night. May he serve as an example for us to persevere and always be true to ourselves and our Judaism.

As we go through changes and transitions in life and the world, we Jews must know what our values are and be true to who we are and our history. Let’s stay true to ourselves. JN

PEREIRA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

perseverance and determination inherited from my family, I have worked very hard to be where I am today, and this resolve makes me confident in the decisions that I’ve made.

I am currently in isolation in my new apartment in Tel Aviv. While staring at the same walls day in and out can be dreary, my fiancé’s friends and family have bombarded me with food and desserts — making it clear that the sense of Jewish community I felt back in the United States is very much alive and well here, too.

Naturally, my journey to make a life in Israel is not yet complete. I am grateful and honored to have been offered a litigation position at a British law firm. Of course, this opportunity comes with its own challenge as I will need to study for my solicitor’s qualifying exam. Yet, like everything beforehand, I truly believe that with hard work and determination I will surpass this obstacle, thus taking another step closer to building a viable and happy life here in Israel.

Since 1948, the ability for every Jew to come to Israel is truly a blessing. While I’m new to this yearning for “home,” I’m so glad that I’m finally here and eagerly await to see what my future holds. In the meantime, I am excited to be an Israeli-in-training. JN

Rabbi Gavriel Goetz is head of school at Yeshiva High School of Arizona.

PARSHAH

Jessielyn Hirschl and her husband, Jared Hirschl, are part of YATOM’s Family Fellowship fifth cohort.

Natasha Pereira made aliyah on Dec. 30, 2020.

Scottsdale woman brings Challenge Island to Northeast Valley

SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR

Jessica Nathan didn’t plan for a teaching career. Growing up Jewish in Bogota, Colombia, Nathan moved to the United States for school, earning a master’s degree in social work. That was the path she assumed she would stay on. Eventually, she grew restless and looked for a change.

After moving from city to city, she finally settled in Scottsdale where she stumbled on Challenge Island. The educational enrichment program spoke to her, and she felt inspired by a new sense of mission.

Nathan loved the concept immediately, calling it the “most well-rounded educational program” she’s encountered. Both her earlier career in social work and her transition to educator were inspired by her own Jewish education and its emphasis on community.

Challenge Island was developed by a Jewish educator, Sharon Duke Estroff, while she was still teaching second grade in Atlanta. That also proved a draw for Nathan. Along with being founder and CEO of Challenge Island, Estroff is a syndicated Jewish parenting columnist and author. She franchised her educational enrichment program in 2003. Nathan’s territory is now Northeast Maricopa County.

The STEAM-based program is not directed at Jewish kids, but “there’s a little bit of Judaism sprinkled in,” in terms of additional programming ideas around the Jewish holidays, explained Nathan.

But it isn’t just that or the focus on science and technology that Nathan finds compelling. “It is a mindset” students learn that will lead them to successful futures, she said.

The program’s central idea is that by enriching a school’s current classes with a STEAM curriculum it will help them develop important skills geared towards the future. Challenge Island emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking and flexibility and uses projectbased learning.

The program is taught in after-school classes, but it also extends to camps and offers private lessons for small groups. It presents challenges that students must meet with whatever resources they have at hand.

Before COVID-19, some of those resources would be provided in person. Now that the program is virtual, students have to get creative with whatever they can find at home.

“It’s a really cool life lesson,” Nathan said. “It’s not just teaching words in a class, but something they carry with them after.”

The mainstays of the program are the thematic island sessions that lend the program its name. One session consists of eight or more classes focused on a unique destination.

“We take the kiddos on an imaginary journey to Tel Aviv where they learn about Israel,” she said, explaining one recent session. For that destination, Nathan teaches facts about geography, clothing, music and art. Then she turns to weather patterns and what the implications are for the nation’s water resources. The students even discuss the basics of how to build an irrigation system.

“Through that process you’re learning about the engineering of building an irrigation system and the science behind it,” she said. “But we also talked about culture and geography so they come out learning about a lot of different topics.”

One local parent, Jennifer Flores, gave the program high marks and said her two children enjoyed the destination themes. Now her youngest, who “loved learning that engineers are creative,” has added it to her list of possible careers.

There are also shorter “island getaways” that can be part of private events or parties as well as school workshops or in-school field trips.

While each session has a different theme, “at the center of it is really science, technology, engineering, arts and math,” Nathan said.

“That’s the core of what we do with kiddos.”

Challenge Island is academic, but Nathan said another important aspect is social. The kids work in groups to solve challenges. They communicate, problem solve, acquire leadership skills, and the hope is that this will bolster them emotionally as well as academically.

Nathan didn’t start offering Challenge Island until after the coronavirus pandemic began.

“I knew that I was going to have a bit of an uphill climb,” she said. She remains undaunted though, because Challenge Island moved quickly with virtual sessions.

“There’s a million virtual offerings, but there’s nothing like Challenge Island,” Nathan said. “After a challenge you’ve learned 20 different things, and there’s not a lot of programs than can offer that.” JN

To learn more, visit: challenge-island.com/ phoenix-northeast-valley/

Jessica Nathan teaches a lesson with Challenge Island PHOTO BY JESSICA NATHAN

Youth Education Program Youth Education Program

CBI’s musical dinosaur makes happy Jewish memories

SHANNON LEVITT | MANAGING EDITOR

Cantor Seth Ettinger of Congregation Beth Israel spends his days leading people of all ages in song. Talking about music, creating music and helping others find meaning in music animates him. As a cantor, it’s all an integral part of his life.

But the role music plays in memory and connection — especially for children — moves him on a deeply personal level.

Some of the earliest Jewish memories kids have is the happiness that comes from music and songs they hear and sing during Shabbat, Ettinger said. After arriving at CBI three years ago, he felt that although the kids were singing a lot of songs, they weren’t participating in Shabbat as fully as he suspected they could.

Along with Erik Rendelman, CBI youth advisor, Ettinger began experimenting. They focused on the energy levels of songs to create an upbeat atmosphere. They hoped to take the kids on an emotional journey that wouldn’t overwhelm them.

“When kids actually have an avenue to get their giggles out without being told to be quiet, it’s very empowering for a toddler,” Ettinger said. “Knowing that they won’t be reprimanded or put down for wanting to be how they are shows someone is actually listening to them.”

Rendelman agreed that the key is energy.

“Being able to come together with families every Friday morning to share a sweet, rowdy Shabbat together in our chapel was such a vital part of our community,” Rendelman said, via email.

Honing in on the lyrics of the popular Shabbat song, “There’s a Dinosaur Knocking at My Door,” Ettinger created a mascot kids could relate to — David the Shabbat Dinosaur — which made what was happening in the Shabbat service real and tangible for the kids. It was a way of “hooking kids into the experience,” Ettinger said.

Accompanied by his band, the Shabbam Jam Crew, David encourages the kids to sing, dance and enjoy Shabbat.

Kids responded positively and CBI’s Tot Shabbat services were packed, Ettinger said.

We would like an attentive and experienced person to watch our three-month old daughter during the work day. COVID caution during o hours is required. For more information, please contact: garygoldemail@gmail.com

same time he was keeping them connected to Shabbat and Jewish music, he was also using the opportunity to learn more about their musical tastes in order to write songs that would genuinely appeal to them.

After three months of virtual research, he was ready to write. He wrote songs incorporating elements of secular rock ’n’ roll, country and hip hop. He wanted to expose them to every type of music. “At the root, no type of music should be taboo,” he said. “All music and all musical genres could be sacred.”

“Recording original songs, and mixing in genres like hip hop was especially fun because we were able to mimic some of the improvisation we do when we perform for kids in person,” Rendelman added. “David the Dino is here to stay at CBI.”

Ettinger kept the lyrics simple so kids can remember and sing them after listening to the songs once or twice. “I loved the idea of bringing the silliness and fun of a CBI Tot Shabbat into the kitchens, cars and bedrooms of our students,” said Rendelman.

The “Shabbam Jam!” album that was the product of these efforts makes Shabbat accessible to kids any time they need it, Ettinger said.

Additionally, “the happiness associated with these songs will be at the core of their Jewish identity,” he said.

An extra benefit, according to Ettinger, is the break parents get while their kids are dancing and singing. But he was quick to point out that parents can easily join their children singing and dancing should they feel inspired.

But the kids are the focus. “The music of ‘Shabbam Jam!’ gets kids to move and find balance through the gradual increasing and decreasing of energy through rhythms that match their heartbeat and breathing,” Ettinger said.

To get the word out to parents in Greater Phoenix and beyond, he created a social media campaign about the album and the community has responded. “We’re coming together as a community to put out this body of musical work for our kids that need it,” he said.

Then came COVID-19 which put it all on hold.

Once the pandemic meant kids would be consigned to watching services on Zoom, Ettinger decided he would have to get creative. Kids wanted the Shabbat experience they loved, and Ettinger wanted to give it to them.

He began holding daily song sessions for 30 minutes with his pre-schoolers virtually. At the

David the Dino and the Shabbam Crew are preparing for CBI’s Tu B’Shevat’s Zoom event on Jan. 29. Ettinger is looking forward to the event and grateful to the many people who helped him bring the project to fruition. JN

“Shabbam Jam!” is available on Spotify, iTunes and Amazon Music. All proceeds from the album go to Chanen Preschool.

Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman • Administrator, Renee Joffe 602-369-7667 • congregationkehillah.org

CBI Chanukah drive-in event with David the Dino PHOTO COURTESY OF CANTOR SETH ETTINGER

Your home office can be your haven

BARBARA KAPLAN

It is 10 p.m. and I am dressed in casual, loosefitting clothes. Yet, I am working in my office — home office, that is.

I’m happy that I don’t have to leave an office building to go home. As I write this, I’m feeling comfortable, safe and relaxed. I’m not concerned about being alone in an office building or wondering what is happening with my family at home.

Because I enjoy my work, there is no stress and I am not concerned about the time or my surroundings. I carefully selected everything to be sure that I could function easily and be more focused and productive.

I paid attention to how the space is laid out, the colors, the comfort of the chairs, style of the furniture and accessories. When I talk on the phone, I can look out my window or at something that I have chosen that makes me happy.

Many people today have home offices. Even if it isn’t a complete working office, Zoom meetings with professionals and certain computer accessories may require the need for a separate room. Laptops and cell phones make it easy to work in any room of the house. Everyone should decide on what they need to present their image and brand while teleconferencing.

One of the best things about a home office is not having to play by the rules. No one is dictating the decor in your work space or how it has to be furnished or what can or cannot be displayed.

What I enjoy most about my home office is the sense of well-being it provides. I can have candles on my desk, a small water fountain flowing beside me, my favorite music playing, surrounded with my plants

and my favorite knick-knacks that make me smile or practice aromatherapy.

Whether your home office is only for telecommuting or for a full-time business, it is an opportunity for you to support your needs and express your personality. The more you tailor your space for you, the more likely you will enjoy being there while you work and the less tired you’ll be when your workday ends.

When your office is designed for your comfort as well as for functionality, it will impact your performance and productivity. Don’t skimp on bringing in the best tools. Remember that this is an investment in you.

The best location for your office is as far away from your bedroom and living space as possible. It’s best not to have a view of your office as you go about your daily life at home. You don’t

need a reminder to work.

Hopefully, you have a separate room, rather than having to share a space in a room that is also used for another purpose.

Providing some sort of designated area is really important, especially if you can close a door to it. You can use a closet or space under a staircase. Just mirror the wall in front of you to give it the reflection of the larger space behind you. Choosing the right location in your home can be as important as the space itself.

In a home office you can choose the lighting you want. Let in as much daylight and fresh air as you can.

Be aware that the average bedroom lighting is a fixture in the center of the room, and that will do you no good when lighting work areas. Consider task lighting such as desk

lamps, floor lamps and over-head lighting directed on the work area. You can also create some ambient lighting to create a feeling of relaxation. It is ideal to have a mix of lighting all switched separately to illuminate your office.

It’s also very important to watch your posture and be comfortable as you work. Be sure your flat-panel monitor is positioned at the right height for you and wear blue light lenses to reduce eye stress and strain.

In your home office, you can have all this and more. Remember, rooms have no feelings, you do. JN

Barbara Kaplan offers personal interior design guidance, ideas and solutions for free in her monthly Zoom class. Email Barbara@BarbaraKaplan.com to claim a seat or visit: BarbaraKaplan.com & YourZoomRoom.com.

Celebrating Tu B’Shevat with Israel’s seven species

JENNIFER STARRETT | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

One tradition surrounding this special — though underrated — holiday, is to use and enjoy the seven species of Israel. This is a biblical reference to the first fruits of the season which were the only acceptable offerings in the Temple.

Wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives (oil)

and dates (honey) hold a special significance because of their connection to the Land of Israel, and because they provide the necessary combined nutrients for life.

The following two recipes combine the seven species in unique ways making them perfect additions to any Tu B’Shevat celebration.

Salad:

½ cup pearled barley

½ cup wheat quinoa

¼ cup golden raisins

¼ cup dates, depitted

4 ounces. freshly, washed arugula

1 cucumber

¼ cup pistachios

3 tablespoons pomegranate seeds

Dressing:

1 ½ tablespoons fig jam

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Cook and cool the barley and quinoa as directed on the package, or use pre-cooked grains.

While grains are cooking, make the dressing by adding together the fig jam, olive oil and balsamic vinegar and whisk until thoroughly combined. Wash, peel and chop the cucumber and set aside.

Chop the depitted dates and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, quinoa and arugula. Gently mix to combine. Add the chopped cucumber, chopped dates, raisins, pistachios and pomegranate seeds and gently toss to combine.

Once the salad is evenly tossed, add the dressing (to taste — you probably won’t need all of it) 1 tablespoon at a time. Gently toss and enjoy.

Combining sweet fruit and honey with two flours make these muffins a great breakfast option or an afternoon snack. They are light, easy to make and full of unique flavors.

You might want to make a double batch — these go quickly in my house.

INGREDIENTS

½ cup honey

1 teaspoon vanilla

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

¼ cup extra-light olive oil

2 eggs

100 grams (3.5 ounces) dates - depitted

80 grams (2.8 ounces) dried figs

80 grams (2.8 ounces) raisins

80 grams (2.8 ounces) pomegranate seeds

¾ cup barley flour

¾ cup whole wheat all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

Heat oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. Roughly chop the dates and figs — about ¼-inch pieces.

Mix honey, vanilla, applesauce, oil and eggs in a large bowl. Stir in the chopped dates, chopped figs and raisins.

Mix the flours, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a separate bowl. Add this mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well to combine. Gently fold in the pomegranate seeds.

Pour the batter evenly into the greased muffin tin and bake for about 20 minutes until toothpick comes out clean. JN

Jennifer Starrett is an events and marketing consultant. For more of her recipes for Tu B’Shevat as well as other ideas for making the holiday special, visit jewphx.com.

Paradise eluded in ‘Some Kind of Heaven’

SOPHIE PANZER | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

In the opening scenes of “Some Kind of Heaven,” viewers are treated to the well-choreographed dance that is life in a Florida retirement community. A parade of golf carts zoom along in formation. A synchronized swimming group splashes merrily in a pool. Later, an instructor leads a line of women in a baton-twirling routine. The message is clear: Everyone has a place here.

So what happens to those who can’t find theirs?

The documentary is produced by The New York Times and Darren Aronofsky, the director behind “Black Swan” and “Pi.” It is the feature directorial debut of Lance Oppenheim, a 24-year-old filmmaker whose Instagram account fairly screams “nice Jewish boy.” In interviews with various outlets, Oppenheim said he headed to The Villages retirement community in central Florida and showed up to as many clubs and events as he could to find his subjects and their stories.

The community, founded by Jewish developer Harold Schwartz, markets itself as a Disneyland for seniors, and one retiree likens the beautiful grounds, social activities and robust dating scene to being in college again.

While there’s nothing wrong with older adults keeping active and socially engaged in their later years, the residents of The Villages live in a bubble. Most of them embrace the insularity and predictability. Others, after coughing up quite a bit of money, find they have flown into a gilded cage.

The film, which screened virtually at the Gershman Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival Jan. 10-13, follows the lives of four residents.

Anne and Reggie are a married couple whose

vastly different approaches to retirement strain their relationship. Anne, an athlete, takes naturally to days full of activities and dominates the pickleball court. Reggie, on the other hand, turns to illegal and recreational drugs as he pursues a vague sense of spirituality. Anne’s nerves fray as she struggles to make herself heard in her marriage and contends with Reggie’s increasingly severe delusions, which soon yield dangerous consequences.

Barbara is a widowed Bostonian who moved to The Villages with her husband before he passed away. Despite the fact that she is surrounded by seemingly infinite clubs and opportunities to socialize, she feels lonely and homesick.

Oppenheim captures Barbara’s precise and peculiar sadness at being alone in multiple crowded rooms; she is always a few beats behind at tambourine class or a few steps out of line when she goes dancing. She is also the only character who works full time, and the dreariness of working a desk while being surrounded by the trappings of wealth and leisure are evident on her face.

Dennis is not technically a resident of The Villages; he’s a van-dweller fleeing a California DUI fine and hoping to shack up with a wealthy lady friend. He showers at the pool and frequents bars and dances as he searches for someone to offer him financial security.

Having lived most of his 81 years as a drifter, he still dreads sacrificing his freedom for the comfort he craves as he ages. Although his gold-digging comes off as slimy, his vulnerability is sobering — a reminder of the dire straits that await those who don’t, or can’t, plan for their futures while they still have time.

The cinematography is gorgeous and intimate, full of surprisingly strong and coordinated bodies in motion, swaying palm trees and cerulean swimming pools. The

last time anything this dreamily colorful hit screens was when “La La Land” was released back in 2017.

The juxtaposition between the manicured golf courses and the pained looks on the subjects’ faces never lets you forget something is off. It’s as if Oppenheim is challenging the viewer to distinguish between the constructed beauty of a fake-historic town square and the genuine beauty of the hopes and joys of its pedestrians.

At certain points, the portrayal of The Villages appears cloistered to the point of being oversimplified. The shots are scrubbed clean of any references to politics, with no lawn signs indicating the political divisions of the past four years. According to Business Insider, Republicans outnumber Democrats two to one in this community, and it has not been spared election-related turmoil and controversy.

Sweeping this reality under the rug in order to create a more universal narrative arc is the easier, if not most accurate or satisfying, storytelling choice. It would have been interesting to hear from a resident whose political, racial or cultural background added another layer to their sense of alienation from their neighbors.

Nevertheless, this intriguing, surreal documentary packs incredibly layered and nuanced stories into 83 minutes. The fact that Oppenheim was able to gain the trust of these retirees, who are separated from him by so many years, and portray their stories with such warmth reveals a level of empathy that is a pleasure to watch unfold on screen.

“Some Kind of Heaven” is available on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon Video and other platforms. JN

Sophie Panzer is a staff writer for Jewish Exponent, a Jewish Newsaffiliated publication.

A cheer squad in The Villages

Nostalgia’s role, unmet potential

Pastrami as religion

“Beyond the Synagogue: Jewish Nostalgia as Religious Practice”

Rachel B. Gross NYU Press

Rachel B. Gross, a professor of Jewish studies at San Francisco State University, is willing to bet that you don’t see your purchase of a scarf from the National Museum of American Jewish History gift shop as religious practice. Ditto for a kosher-style pastrami sandwich scarfed down at Hymie’s, an afternoon spent on a Jewish genealogical website or a historical tour of Congregation Mikveh Israel.

These activities, as we typically understand them, are Jewish cultural practices, distinct from religious practices that take place in synagogues or around the Shabbos dinner table. They are expressions of nostalgia, in many cases, rather than spiritual exercises.

But Gross argues in her provocative new book that this distinction between “religious” and “cultural” is false. The widely shared experience of American Jewish nostalgia is, she says, the expression of understanding between Jews living and dead, i.e., religion, and create networks of sacred meaning. To view nostalgia as merely “a wishful affection or sentimental longing for an irrevocable past,” Gross writes, is a mistake. It is in a Hymie’s booth, she argues, digging into that pastrami sandwich, where American Jews practice religion today.

Jewish communal leaders, philanthropists and academics have sounded the alarm at the decline of traditional religious practice, Gross says, giving rise to a fundraising structure that privileges

Different days, same weak result

“Tonight

is Already Tomorrow”

Lia Levi; translated by Clarissa Botsford Europa Editions

“Tonight is Already Tomorrow” is a translated work published by Europa Editions and written by a prominent Italian novelist about a mid-century child prodigy. If that sounds a bit like one of Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan novels, I’ll admit that my interest in Ferrante led me to this new Europa novel by Lia Levi.

But unlike Ferrante’s popular books, Levi’s “Tonight is Already Tomorrow” is kind of a drag.

The writer’s powers of description are impeccable, even in translation, and her sense of the dramatic is on full display in her tale of a Genoan Jewish family caught up in the gears of Italy’s fascist turn. But confusion reigns in this short novel, which introduces characters and plot lines that are quickly dropped, as if Levi,

overflowing with ideas, had trouble deciding which to include. In trying to take a bite out of every cake, “Tonight is Already Tomorrow” ends up without a distinctive flavor.

At times, Levi appears most interested in the character of Alessandro, the brilliant little boy set to change the fortunes of the Jewish Rimon family. In the chapters about him, you can see the outline of an interesting book, with grand machinations of history and familial strife seen through the eyes of a precocious little boy. But Levi finds so many other characters to inhabit that we don’t spend as much time with Alessandro as we’d like. In such a short book, far too much real estate is occupied by far-flung cousins and other minor characters.

There are ideas for five interesting novels in “Tonight is Already Tomorrow.” Unfortunately, Levi didn’t even end up with one. JN

“Jewish continuity” above nearly all else. “But if we reorient where we look for American Jewish religion and reconsider how we define it,” she writes, “then we start to find a lot more of it.”

Gross uses the framework of “lived religion,” expanding the definition of religious activity beyond what “official” religion allows. Rather than accepting religion as prescriptively defined by official texts and dictates of traditional institutions, Gross uses a descriptive approach that “helps us to take seriously the structures, commitments and activities that shape everyday life,” she writes.

Gross’ assessment of the way institutional Judaism dismisses activities that aren’t officially Jewish is well-argued and comprehensive, and her claim that this is partially due to an understanding of nostalgia as feminine and therefore unserious deserves greater study. But it’s difficult to accept her larger argument.

I write for a Jewish newspaper, and read about Judaism and Jewish people more than any other subject, but that doesn’t make me religious. Likewise, it makes me feel a bit sad to consider that a preference for bagels and ancestry.com could constitute a connection to the infinite.

If powerful sectors of institutional Judaism are not properly valuing cultural practice, as Gross charges, it makes sense to argue for the intrinsic value of such practices rather than argue that they should be recategorized as religious. Non-religious connections to Judaism should be encouraged and nurtured, but we don’t need to radically reorient our communal understanding of those connections in order to see their worth. Whether you buy the larger argument, Gross’ book challenges prevailing orthodoxies of American Jewish life with respect and purpose.

“Beyond the Synagogue: Jewish Nostalgia as Religious Practice”

Jesse Bernstein is a staff writer for Jewish Exponent, a Jewish News-affiliated publication.

“Tonight is Already Tomorrow,” by Lia Levi. Translated by Clarissa Botsford COURTESY OF EUROPA EDITIONS

Featured Event

MONDAY, JAN. 25

Anti-Semitism in Comparative Perspective: Recent Trends and Research Frontiers:

7:50 a.m.-4 p.m. The Lowe Family Research Workshop, hosted by the Center for Jewish Studies at Arizona State University, brings together leading scholars from around the globe to discuss the frontiers in the study of anti-Semitism and to debate critical factors that influence where and when ethnoreligious groups, and Jews in particular, are likely to be targeted and viewed with prejudice. For more information, visit jewishstudies.asu.edu.

Events

SUNDAY, JAN. 24

Beth El Social Action Donation Drive: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Beth El invites the Jewish community to bring warm clothing items like sweaters, coats and even blankets, and staff will remove them from the trunk of the car. Items must be in good condition. Drive into Beth El’s parking lot at 1118 W Glendale Ave, Phoenix.

Virtual Meetings, Lectures & Classes

SATURDAYS

Saturday Mindfulness Gatherings: 9:30 a.m. Hosted by Hospice of the Valley. Join via Zoom. For more information and event link, visit vosjcc.org/j-at-home-adults.

SUNDAYS

Soul Study: 7:15 a.m. An online class exploring the secrets of the Tanya and Jewish mysticism, taught by Rabbi Pinchas Allouche.

Code of Jewish Law: 9 a.m. With Rabbi Zalman Levertov. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.

MONDAYS

Virtual Knitting Club: 1-3 p.m. Knit, crochet, spin, weave, sew and stitch together over Zoom. For link, email Nicole Garber at nicoleg@vosjcc.org

A Taste of Shabbat: 6:30 p.m. A journey through the Shabbat meal course by course, with a cooking demonstration led by a different Project Inspire branch each week. For more information, visit projectinspireaz.com.

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS

Learning to Trust in God: 7:30 p.m. With Rabbi Yossi Friedman of Chabad of Phoenix/ Anthem. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.

TUESDAYS

39 Ways to Repair the World!: 10 a.m. In celebration of Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz’s 39th birthday, he will teach one of the 39 melachot each week for 39 weeks through April 8. Each session will be between 15-20 minutes long. Suggested donation: $18. For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org/ event/39-ways-to-repair-the-world.

Keep Calm and Play Mahjong from Home!: 7-9 p.m. Play mahjong from home with myjongg.net. To join a table, email Nicole at nicoleg@vosjcc.org by Monday at 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

Wednesday BINGO: 11 a.m.-noon. Play bingo with J members. Upon registration, a bingo card will be emailed to you with further instructions. Free for members, $5 for guests. For more information, visit vosjcc.org/j-at-home-adults.

Happiness Hour: 11:30 a.m. An online class taught by Rabbi Pinchas Allouche that delves into texts and references culled from our traditions to address a relevant topic and draw uplifting life lessons from it. For more information or to join, visit cbtvirtualworld. com.

The Thirteen Petalled Rose: 1 p.m. An online Kabbalah class that studies “The Thirteen Petalled Rose” by Rabbi Adin Even-Israel Steinsaltz, focusing on the many foundational and transformational concepts of Kaballah and Jewish Mysticism and applying them to everyday life.

For more information or to join, visit cbtvirtualworld.com.

J Social Hour by the Pool: 5-7 p.m. Martin Pear JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Enjoy live music and a special happy hour menu from Milk + Honey while relaxing with friends by the pool. Space is limited, and social distancing will be enforced. For more information, visit vosjcc.org.

THURSDAYS

Brain Games with Friends: 2-3 p.m. Challenge your brains while having fun. Experts believe that active learning helps maintain brain health by preventing loss of cognitive skills such as memory, reasoning and judgment. For more information or to register, visit vosjcc.org/j-at-home-adults.

MONDAYS, JAN. 11-25

Still Traveling: Sensational Seville: Noon-1:15 p.m. An event series hosted by the East Valley JCC in partnership with The Osher Marin JCC. Join guide James Sokol on a virtual tour of Seville. On Jan. 11, tour the Seville Cathedral and Giralda; on Jan. 18, visit Barrio Santa Cruz and Jewish Seville; and on Jan. 25, take a trip to modern Seville. $15 per session. For more information or to register, visit evjcc.org/ event/still-traveling-sensational-seville.

TUESDAYS, JAN. 12-26

Advanced Beginner/Intermediate Mahjong

Online: 1-2:15 p.m. A series for those with a Mahjong card and a basic understanding of the game who would like to learn more. In four virtual sessions, Donna Miller-Small will teach how to pass tiles and pick the right hand, as well as how to strategize and play a more defensive game. Cost: $60 for members

of the Martin Pear JCC, $75 for nonmembers. For more information or to register, visit vosjcc.org.

TUESDAYS, JAN. 12-MAY 25

Introduction to Judaism: 7-9 p.m. Learn the basics of Judaism with Rabbi Stein Kokin. For more information or to register, visit bethelphoenix.com/adult-education.

WEDNESDAYS, JAN. 13-FEB. 17

Christianity for All, Marketed by Paul, Who Brilliantly Planned Judaism’s Fall: 10-11:10 a.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Marcie Lee. Experience through the Christian Bible’s narrative why the idea that Jews and Christians should simply respect each other has not gone smoothly and why there is so much recent promise for positive change. Please bring a Christian Bible. Cost: $102. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

The Crown: Battles of Israelite Kings and Queens: 11:20 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Marcie Lee. Meet the Biblical crowned subjects in the Books of Kings. Cost: $102. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix. org/courses/available-courses.

At the Heart of Three-Part Jewish Art: 12:40-1:15 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Marcie Lee. See examples of culturally diverse artists— Non-Jewish artists on Jewish subjects, Jewish artists on Jewish subjects, and Jewish artists on the secular world—who have the creation of Jewish art in common. Cost: $102. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/ available-courses.

THURSDAYS, JAN. 14-FEB. 4

The Ethical Life: 6:30 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Rabbi A. Nitzan Stein Kokin. Grapple with today’s most pressing ethical dilemmas with a curriculum from the Jewish Theological Seminary. Cost: $72. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

THURSDAYS, JAN. 14-MARCH 25

Israel and the Middle East Through the Lens of Ever-Changing Events in the US, Israel and the Middle East: 12:30-2 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Phoenix course taught by Meir Jolovitz. An examination of the implications of the election and current events. Cost: $130. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

TUESDAYS, JAN. 19-FEB. 2

Writing Your Jewish Life: 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course

by Linda Pressman. Explore some of the best methods to access your story and life journey. Learn to express yourself in words in a way that you will be proud to have others read. Cost: $48. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/ available-courses.

TUESDAYS, JAN. 19-FEB. 9

What We Do and Why We Do It: 10-11 a.m.

A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Rabbi Laibel Blotner. Discover the rite and reason behind the Jewish rituals. Cost: $60. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

WEDNESDAYS

JACS: Support Group for Jewish Alcoholics, Addicts and their Friends and Family: 7:30 p.m. For more information, email jacsarizona@gmail.com. No charge.

MONDAY, JAN. 25

Jewish Debates about Marital Intimacy: Noon-1 p.m. A virtual event taught by Noam Zion and hosted by Valley Beit Midrash. This class will explore the two-millenium Jewish debate on marital intimacy, from espionage in the Talmudic bedroom to the contentious ultra-Orthodox division of today. RSVP for Zoom link. Cost: $18. For more information or to register, visit valleybeitmidrash.org/ upcoming-events.

MONDAYS, JAN. 25-MARCH 1

The Writings and Wisdom of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z’l: 12:15-1:30 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Andre Ivory. Rabbi Sacks, who passed away recently, possessed a world of wisdom which crossed denominational lines. His books, writings and philosophy not only impacted today’s world, but his intellect, scholarship and wisdom will be felt for generations to come. Cost: $98. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

TUESDAY, JAN. 26

Music to Your Mouth: Bubbles and Ballads: 5:30-7 p.m. Martin Pear JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Part of the Martin Pear JCC’s Music to Your Mouth tasting series. Sommelier Nadia will help guide a tasting of American sparkling, French brut, Italian prosecco, Spanish cava,and fizzy rosé. A performance by local singer Julie Immerman will follow the tasting. Cost: $25 for members of the MPJCC, $36 for nonmembers. For more information or to register, vosjcc.org/tastings2021.

FRIDAY, JAN. 29

A Child of Holocaust Survivors: Our Parent’s Stories: 10 a.m.-noon. A virtual seminar with William Steen hosted by the Arizona Jewish Historical Society. To RSVP, contact Tony Fusco at afusco@azjhs.org.

FRIDAYS, JAN. 29-FEB. 26

Racism in America: The Democracy We Created & the Struggle to fulfill the Vision: 10-11:30 a.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Jay Roth. This class will explore the roots of racism and white supremacy beginning with the European era of colonialism and how those concepts continue to endure to today. Cost: $90. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

Anti-Semitic graffitti

PHOTO BY A XYX VIA FLICKR

Upcoming Special Sections

Senior Lifestyle

February 5

From

CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Shabbat

FRIDAYS

Shabbat at Beth El: 11-11:45 a.m. Celebrate Shabbat with songs, blessings and inspirational teachings. Rabbi Stein Kokin from Beth El Congregation will lead us the first Friday of every month. Special guests will be welcoming Shabbat during the remainder of the month. For more information or to join, visit bethelphoenix.com.

Seniors

MONDAYS Dance Fusion with Michele Dionisio: 11 a.m.noon. Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse.

WEDNESDAYS

Chair Yoga with Zoe: 11-11:45 a.m. A guided class in yoga without having to get down on the floor. Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse.

TUESDAYS, JAN. 12-FEB. 2

Wise Aging: 7-8:15 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Linda Levin. Wise Aging is designed specifically to meet the social, emotional and spiritual needs of Jewish seekers entering second adulthood. Explore the tools and resources to age wisely through the lens of Jewish wisdom. Learn positive ways to navigate a meaningful transition to the next chapter on life’s journey. Cost: $68. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

FRIDAYS, JAN. 15-MARCH 5

Wise Aging: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. A Bureau of Jewish Education course taught by Nan Pollinger. Wise Aging is designed specifically to meet the social, emotional and spiritual needs of Jewish seekers entering second adulthood. Explore the tools and resources to age wisely through

the lens of Jewish wisdom. Learn positive ways to navigate a meaningful transition to the next chapter on life’s journey. Cost: $130. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/courses/available-courses.

TUESDAY, JAN. 26

American Photographer Edward S. Curtis: 11 a.m.-noon. Jane Przelica offers an interactive presentation on “The Shadow Catcher: American Photographer Edwards S. Curtis.” Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse.

Arts

SUNDAY, JAN. 24

Second Annual Klezmer Fest: Jewish/ Black Music: 1 p.m. The second annual Klezmer Fest, hosted by the East Valley JCC, will feature four live virtual concerts by Yale Strom and Hot Pstromi. On Jan. 24, the group will perform melodies composed and written by Jews and African-Americans from the 1910s to the 1950s. Cost: $10 per concert. For more information or to register, visit evjcc.org/klezmer2020.

Viral: Antisemitism in Four Mutations: 2 p.m. Martin Pear JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Part of the Martin Pear JCC’s Movies with a Message documentary film series. Hosted in partnership with Congregation Beth Tefillah. Watch “Viral: Antisemitism in Four Mutations” and join filmmaker Andrew Goldberg for a Q&A. Virtual option available. Cost: $10-20. For more information or to register, visit vosjcc.org/movies2021.

SUNDAY, JAN. 31

Musicians of the Symphony at The J: 2-3 p.m. Martin Pear JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. An afternoon of music with violinist Leslie Frey Anderegg, cellist Yeil Park and violist Mark Dix. Cost: $30 for MPJCC members, $45 for nonmembers. For more information or to register, visit vosjcc.org. JN

Bella Patricia Brown becomes a bat mitzvah on Feb. 13, 2021, at Congregation Or Tzion. She is the daughter of Risa and Mike Brown of Scottsdale.

Grandparents are Barbara and Barry Zemel of Paradise Valley. For her mitzvah project, Bella is baking and selling brownies and cookies and donating the proceeds to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. A student at Desert Shadows Middle School, Bella enjoys dancing, singing, painting, baking and guitar.

Benjamin Wilson Cherny becomes a bar mitzvah on Feb. 20, 2021, at Temple Solel. He is the son of Stephanie and Andrei Cherny of

Grandparents are Shelley Heyman and Larry Fleischman of Tucson; and Helena and Pavel Cerny of Valley Village, California. For his mitzvah project, Ben started the Send Happiness Project to spread happiness and keep connections strong during the pandemic. He built a website and included a tracker and map to show how far happiness has spread at SendHappiness.world.

A student at BASIS Phoenix, Ben enjoys coding games, swimming, hiking and biking around the neighborhood with his friends. He loves animals, especially his pet fish Brian.

BELLA PATRICIA BROWN

BAT MITZVAH

BAR MITZVAH

PHOTO COURTESY OF BROWN FAMILY

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHERNY FAMILY

ENGAGEMENT

JACQUELYN DANIELLE NULL AND MICHAEL BLAINE JOHNSON

Karen Blucher of Wichita, Kansas, and Kevin Johnson of Emporia, Kansas, announce the engagement of their son Michael Blaine Johnson of Phoenix to Jacquelyn Danielle Null of Phoenix.

Parents of the bride-to-be are Lynn and Tom Null. Parents of the groom-to-be are Karen Blucher and Kevin Johnson. Jacquelyn and Michael both graduated from the University of Kansas.

The wedding will take place on March 21, 2021, at the McDowell Mountain Golf Club. It will be an outdoors, socially distanced ceremony and reception. The ceremony will be livestreamed.

OBITUARIES

IRMA E. GOTTLIEB

Irma E. Gottlieb, nee Glahs, 100, died on Dec. 22, 2020.

She was the beloved wife of Erich, z’l, for 68 years; devoted mother to Evelyn Simon (Danny) and Bernice Kirchler (Mel, z’l); loving grandmother to Jeffrey (Becky) and Leslie (Brad), and “super Nini” to great-grandchildren Sophia and Colby. She will be remembered lovingly by all for her words of wisdom, gentle kindness, her warm smile and for making everyone she came in contact with feel special and appreciated.

Contributions in her memory are suggested to Congregation Kehillah, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 1630 #439, Phoenix, AZ 85050

BARBARA P WOLIN

Barbara P. Wolin, 76, died on Jan. 14, 2021. She was born in Chicago and lived in Glendale.

She is survived by her brother, Charles Wolin (Judy Fink). Services were held at Hebrew Memorial Park in Clinton Township, Michigan. Arrangements by Hebrew Memorial Chapel. JN

On Dec. 19, 2020, David Shcolnik, loving husband and father of four, passed away at age 88.

Dave grew up in South Bend, Indiana, with his parents, Harry and Esther Shcolnik, and his five younger brothers and sisters: Marleen Hunt (Doug), Bob Shcolnik (Linda), Linda Ratcliffe (Bob), Mike Shcolnik (Noreen) and Janet Rees (Tom). He was a star football and baseball player in high school and attended Indiana University and Notre Dame. He met Bonnie, the love of his life and wife of 68 years, in South Bend. They moved to Arizona in the ‘60s, raised four children, and enjoyed the AZ life.

He loved spending time with family, had a passion for photography, loved his pugs, and was an avid reader. Dave was an early adopter of technology who could figure out any computer challenge and always had the most current technology. He was also known for his grilling skills, most famous for his stuffed cheeseburgers, a tradition that will carry on. He was kind, loving and full of knowledge; he would help anyone who asked.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Esther, and his sister, Marleen.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; four children, Marilynn, Richard (Caren), Steve (Angela) and Barb (Jaime); brothers and sisters Bob, Linda, Mike (Noreen) and Janet (Tom); six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren (with one more on the way); several cousins, nephews and nieces.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to AZ pug rescue @ aparn.org.

Claire Arlene Schonwetter, age 94, of North Scottsdale, Arizona, passed in her sleep Jan. 6, 2021.

She was born Sept. 29, 1926, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Oscar and Jennie (Berman) Tolchinsky. She was married to her husband, Seymour Schonwetter, for 40 years. Claire was a graduate of Bismarck High School and the University of Minnesota. She received a master’s degree in speech pathology from Arizona State University, and worked for the Arizona school system as a speech pathologist for many years, until her retirement. She was a Lion of Judah and contributed to many charities.

She is survived by her husband, Seymour; her sister, Anita Greenstein of Minnesota; her son, Tom Rothstein of California; and her daughter, Nancy Judson of Washington. Also surviving are her stepchildren, Stuart (Regina) Schonwetter of California, Barbara Schonwetter and Michael (Roxanne) Schonwetter, both of Minnesota. She had eight grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her parents; sisters, Sylvia Baker and Beatrice Reisman, both of Minnesota; and son, Jim Rothstein of Arizona.

Claire was the most wonderful woman and will be so greatly missed.

Funeral service noon MST, Sunday, Jan. 10th, via Zoom. For Zoom link, send an email to zoom3@hodroffepstein.com.

Memorials preferred to the donor’s favorite charity.

Funeral arrangements by Hodroff-Epstein Memorial Chapel, (612) 871-1234 (Jeff)

On Dec. 31, 2020, David Sussman died in Scottsdale, Arizona at the age of 89 from complications related to COVID-19.

David, beloved husband, father and grandfather, is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Susanne (Greene); his children, Carol (Rick) Burdick, Ron (Fran) Sussman and Steve (Andrea) Sussman; and grandchildren Jake, Jordan, Hallie, Noah, Leah, Sophia and Zachary.

David was born on Aug. 14, 1931, in Columbus, Ohio. After attending Ohio State University, he graduated in 1955 from Ohio Northern University with a degree in pharmaceutical science. He was a proud member of Rho Pi Phi pharmacy fraternity and Alpha Epislon Pi social fraternity. David enjoyed a lengthy career as a pharmacist working in retail pharmacies, hospitals and nursing homes. In addition, David volunteered his time twice, relieving active military personnel on Israeli army bases.

David married Susanne in 1956, and they truly spent the next almost 65 years as each other’s best friend. They raised their young children in Columbus, Ohio, before moving to Phoenix in 1972. In 2001, David and Susanne relocated to Palm Beach County, Florida, and then returned to the Phoenix area in 2017. David was a devoted man who took great pride in his family. Judaism was an especially important aspect of his life, and he was very active in the synagogues he belonged to in Ohio, Arizona and Florida.

The family asks that donations in memory of David be sent to the charity of your choice.