The Chronicle Mar - Apr 2023

THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947

MARCH – APRIL 2023 | ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR 5783

Celebrating Women Arlene Solomon Visions

Purim, Pesach, and Yom HaShoah Meredith Burke Meet the new Community Security Director

Dr. Richard Marcus The Power to Choose Honoring Our Leaders Outgoing board members & Past Presidents

Announcing Major Achievements in Securing our Community’s Jewish Spaces

jewishlongbeach.org

VOL. 76 NO. 2

INSIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

The Power to Choose

5

Honoring our Leaders

6

Our Past Preidents’ Commitment to Community

8

Reflections

Richard Marcus, Ph.D.

THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947

A message from the Board of Directors Deborah K. Goldfarb

Rabbi Yitzchok Newman

9 Meet the new community Security Director 10 Alpert JCC Center for Life

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way

March/April Programs & Events

3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791

12 Yom HaShoah

Community Observance

Phone: 562.426.7601 | FAX: 562.424.3915

13 Celebrating Women Arlene Solomon Visions

16 Passover Greetings 18 Community News 19 Tributes/In Memoriam

/jewishlongbeach

@jewishlongbeach

jewishlongbeach.org

jewishlongbeach.org

Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Member

Jewish Long Beach is a 501(c)3 with tax I.D. 95-1647830 Dr. Richard Marcus President, Board of Directors

Zach Benjamin Chief Executive Officer

Kevin Giser Chief Operating and Development Officer

Align your business with our mission

Susan Paletz Director of Fund & Community Development

Rachel Roberts

Become a Jewish Long Beach Business Partner Flexible partnership packages Promotional opportunities Chronicle ad credit Meeting and event space Discounted Alpert JCC Membership for employees

Manager of Marketing & Leadership Engagement

Yolanda Placencio Editor

jewishlongbeach.org

Editorial and advertising queries, please call 562.426.7601 x1314 or write chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org.

Ad & Copy deadline for May/June 2023 issue: April 4, 2023

Start a Passover Tradition

Reserve your Passover Greeting in the March/April Chronicle Deadline: February 2, 2023 jewishlongbeach.org/passovergreetings chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org (562) 426-7601 x1314

ISSN# 1525- 6847 The appearance of product or establishment advertising in the Jewish Community Chronicle does not constitute an endorsement of kashruth. Opinions printed in the Jewish Community Chronicle do not necessarily reflect those of Jewish Long Beach. The publication of a paid political advertisement does not constitute endorsement of any candidate, political party or political position by Jewish Long Beach or any employee.

Photo credits and copyrights Cover - ©Rachel Roberts Chronicle ©2023 Jewish Long Beach All Rights Reserved.

SHABBAT CANDLELIGHTING March 3 5:33 pm March 10 5:39 pm March 17 6:44 pm

2 | CHRONICLE

|

March 24 March 31

6:49 pm 6:55 pm

MARCH – APRIL 2023

April 7 April 14

6:58 pm 7:05 pm

April 21 7:10 pm April 28 7:16 pm

CONVERSATIONS

COMMUNITY

Announcing Major Achievements in Securing our Community’s Jewish Spaces Zach Benjamin

|

Chief Executive Officer, Jewish Long Beach

Our Jewish communal institutions are designed to be warm, welcoming, safe spaces where all are free to exercise our values through learning, recreation, volunteerism, Zach Benjamin and service to both the Jewish and broad communities. As a child attending religious school at Temple Judea in the San Fernando Valley, and later at Congregation Shaarai Tzedek in Tampa, Florida, I perceived physical threats to Jewish people and places as a phenomenon reserved for those residing in Soviet Jewish communities and other maligned corners of the our diaspora, from which our American Jewish communal organizations— shielded by our bubble of relative geopolitical stability and social tolerance—was working at the time to extract them.

Unfortunately, we now understand that antiJewish violence knows no borders, and here on our own shores, too many of our communities have fallen victim to the most vicious imaginable brand of lethal intimidation and prejudice. From Pittsburgh to Poway, Colleyville to Charlottesville, on college campuses across North America, and beyond, Jewish lives and identity remain under threat from elements that transcend the political and ideological spectrum.

According to the Anti-Defamation League and the Pew Research Center, anti-Jewish acts remain, by a wide margin, the most common hate crime committed against a religious group

in the United States, accounting for more than half of such transgressions reported to law enforcement each year. In fact, more than 10% of all reported hate crimes, regardless of motivation, are committed against Jews and Jewish communities. Jewish people comprise approximately 2% of the population of the United States, and so the extent to which we are targets of violent bias far outpaces our numbers.

Thus, as leaders and stewards of Jewish life, we bear responsibility not only to ensure that our community’s Jewish infrastructure is vibrant and sustainable, but also to secure and protect, by any method within our capability, all who entrust us with their own lives and those of their children.

To this end, I am thrilled to announce that, late last year, Jewish Long Beach welcomed our firstever full-time Director of Community Security, Meredith Burke, who brings to us over two decades of federal law enforcement experience, most recently as head of the FBI’s Long Beach Field Office. Meredith is employed jointly by Jewish Long Beach and the Secure Community Network (SCN), a nationwide security and intelligence service funded and operated collaboratively by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and The Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations. SCN’s mission is, “via its operations center and Duty Desk, [to] provide timely, credible threat and incident information to both law enforcement and community partners, and to serve as the [Jewish] community’s formal liaison with state and local law enforcement [agencies].”

Meredith and our partnership with SCN enable Jewish Long Beach and the Alpert JCC to enjoy seamless collaboration and communication with a wide variety of both local and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as dedicated security services, training, and expertise, leaving us better prepared than ever before to weather security-related contingencies. Meredith’s arrival and the creation of her position also enable our broader Jewish community to anticipate and mitigate situations that may pose threats to our people or spaces.

Additionally, I am also pleased to reveal that Jewish Long Beach and the AJCC have received a $300,000 LiveSecure Grant from SCN and JFNA, which will fuel training, professional threat and vulnerability assessments, Federal Nonprofit Security Grant application assistance, and a wide variety of additional security assets, not only for our campus, but for our entire Jewish community and its institutions over the course of the next three years.

Jewish Long Beach is the first Jewish federation in California to receive this grant, which places us firmly at the vanguard of Jewish communal security, not only in our state, but on a nationwide scale.

Over the course of the 14 months since our agencies’ integration, Jewish Long Beach and the Alpert JCC have established security as our top operational priority. We are confident that this commitment and investment will ensure that those who participate in learning, wellness, mindfulness, worship, reflection, and recreation on our campus can do so with peaceful hearts, assured that they and their loved ones remain safe and joyful in our spaces.

Start Your Leadership Journey The Alpert New Leaders Forum, made possible by the generosity of Barbara and Ray Alpert (z"l), is a year-long leadership development series for a select group of emerging Jewish community leaders.

Contact Rachel Roberts for more information at rroberts@alpertjcc.org

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2023 COHORT! Apply Today at jewishlongbeach.org JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 3

JEWISH LONG BEACH & ALPERT JCC

SPOTLIGHT

The Power to Choose

Richard R. Marcus, Ph.D. | President, Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC Board of Directors

Jewish by choice. All four of my grandparents came from orthodox Ashkenazi families, so it might not seem like it, but, for me, it is Jewish by choice. I grew up in a town with a scant Jewish population. I studied at, and ultimately rebelled away from, the only shul.

Federations of North America, meaningful contributions to community, Israel and civil society. And, we are a Jewish Community Foundation here to safeguard the funds for grantmaking and improve the lives of Jewish peoples in Long Beach, Israel, and the world.

Then, in my 20s, I realized something. I wasn’t just raised with Jewish values but with Jewish values instilled in me with great intentionality. I realized that I saw the world through a particular lens. I started reading Moses Mendelssohn and Hermann Cohen, Heinrich Graetz and Hannah Arendt. I could look inward but not yet outward.

These three pillars – a Jewish Community Center, a Jewish Federation and a Jewish Community Foundation – are what informed the writing of our mission statement: Guided by Jewish values and culture, we seek to inspire community by improving lives, building bridges of understanding and inclusion, and supporting the Jewish people here, in Israel, and around the world. Now they are at the center of our new strategic planning process as we look not just to replicate the activities of the past but build on this new strength to rethink, reimagine, and reenergize our community throughout Greater Long Beach and West Orange County.

I met my wife, Yael, in a passing moment in Nairobi, Kenya, and we have built a life on that moment. We found harmony in our common Jewish identity and negotiated the intercultural and linguistic dynamics of an American-Israeli household. We began raising our kids, Eitan (20) and Aravah (15), with a deep sense of Jewish values, a commitment to our community, and dedication to a home

I am humbled. My predecessors (Edie Brodsky and Barry Zamost), and the presidents immediately before them (Laurie Raykoff and Matt Davis), moved

We are a Jewish Federation, here to raise money and protect and enhance the well-being of Jews through, in the words of the Jewish Federations of North America, meaningful contributions to community, Israel and civil society. environment where anything and everything is fair game to debate. (To parents of young children: be careful what you wish for with this strategy!)

In 2014 a friend asked if I would consider joining the (then) Jewish Federation of Greater Long Beach and West Orange County Board of Directors. “Why?” I asked. He said: “you are a good fit.” He then commented on my … l will be kind to myself and replace ‘pedanticism’ with my ‘patience with process and tendency to accentuate nuances.’ (I’m that guy who creates a 5-year predictive model for his household electricity bill.) He said that change is coming and the organization could use someone with those proclivities.

Thus, my life transformed from one of Jewish abstentionism to Jewish internalization, from Jewish internalization to a Jewish state of being, and then from a Jewish state of being to Jewish engagement. Jewish by choice. For that I feel a deep need for Jewish spaces. Our campus and its associated programming are thus very special to me. More than that. A pool, a gym, an events space, even an Early Childhood Education center - those are everywhere. But, Jewish spaces for that pool, that gym, and those events are not. An Early Childhood Education center steeped in Jewish values is not. That isn’t just important. It is resonant.

Jewish Long Beach is now three organizations merged into one: We are a Jewish Community Center which, as put in the mission statement of the Jewish Community Centers of America (JCCA), is here for advancing and enriching North American Jewish life. We are a Jewish Federation, here to raise money and protect and enhance the well-being of Jews through, in the words of the Jewish

4 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

mountains to bring together the divergent organizations and create a foundation for the Jewish future of our region. Jewish Long Beach CEO Zach Benjamin somehow managed to run a new organization while building a new staff structure and new staff at the same time, and now we have this effective capacity.

The next steps are to build on this solid foundation to grow our mission: educating our children, telling our story, engaging community in common spaces, celebrating our faith, serving seniors in need of assistance, helping the growing numbers in the Jewish community who are economically struggling, supporting young parents wrestling with Jewish identity – particularly in interfaith families, expanding our reach and influence, weaving our intersectionality, working with Israel and the world as partners in business, cultural engagement, advocacy, and the furtherment of our humanity.

I would love to say that is my goal as president to achieve this. The reality is that a president is merely a steward. We have an inspiring group of vice presidents and a Board of Governors who are thoughtful, engaging, passionate, committed, and deeply knowledgeable, but aspirations this high require your help. It requires the energy of the 38,900 individuals living in 17,700 Jewish households throughout our community. This is the age of the growth of engagement. We Jewish Long Beach can’t imagine a more auspicious moment to work with the Jewish agencies and synagogues, with leaders in our broader Long Beach community, with the global Jewish world, and, most importantly, with you so that our children have the same opportunity I did to choose their Jewish future.

SPOTLIGHT

JEWISH LONG BEACH & ALPERT JCC

A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Honoring

Our Leaders

Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC extend our thanks to the 2022 Outgoing Board Members and Executive Committee officers for their service and dedication to the Jewish community. Kol HaKavod!

Outgoing Officers Genevieve Brill Murphy, CO-SECRETARY (Remaining as 2023 Presidential Appointment to Executive Committee)

Dr. Matt Davis, IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT, ALPERT JCC Alicia Friedmann, CO-SECRETARY Lynne Kass, VP FUND & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Dr. Richard Marcus, VP PLANNING & GRANTS (Remaining as 2023 President of the Board)

Shari Nemirow, CO-VP FINANCE Laurie Raykoff, IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT, JEWISH LONG BEACH Ava Weiss, CO-VP FINANCE (Remaining as 2023 Member of the Board)

Outgoing Board Members Melissa Carr Yanki Greenspan Dr. Bernard Natelson Melissa Newman

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 5

JEWISH LONG BEACH & ALPERT JCC

SPOTLIGHT

Our Past Presidents’ Commitment to Community Deborah K. Goldfarb

As immediate past co-presidents of the Jewish Long Beach & Alpert Jewish Community Center Board, both Edie Brodsky and Barry Zamost have had long histories of involvement in the Long Beach Jewish Community. They have served as role models for the community over the past 40 years.

Following Rita’s term, Barry was on the Alpert Jewish Community Center board for 25 years, serving on the Executive Committee along with actively working on Golf Tournaments, Maccabi Games, and the Aquatics committee.

Edie again joined the Alpert JCC board when the new building opened, quickly becoming Secretary, Vice President and finally AJCC President from 2007-2009, and later was nominated to the national Jewish Community Center Association board. Next Edie served on the Jewish Community Foundation Board, and held Vice President Legacy and Policy chairmanships.

In September of 2020, Barry assumed the presidency of the AJCC. At the same time Edie became president of the combined Jewish Federation/Jewish Community Foundation board, which had recently become Jewish Long Beach, in July 2020. Together, Edie and Barry facilitated the process to integrate the AJCC and Jewish Long Beach.

When asked why he had been so committed, Barry said, “Our connection to the Jewish Community Center had a profound and positive impact on the quality of our lives and those of our children. Through our volunteerism and philanthropy, we hope to increase the likelihood that more individuals and families will have similar experiences.”

Barry and Edie at the Chai Society Luncheon on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus in 2021.

Both joined the JCC* Young Couples Leadership group, with their spouses, early in their careers. While Barry was building his private practice of gastroenterology, his wife Rita was actively involved. She became president of the JCC from 1990-1992, and she and Barry were involved in raising funds for the new building.

Edie’s volunteer involvement began with the JCC Early Childhood Education Center and family committees in the mid-1980s. She soon became involved in the Federation through Women’s Division, chairing many events. She was chosen to be on the national Jewish Federations’ Women’s Young Leadership Cabinet for 6 years. From there, she served on both the JCC and Jewish Federation boards, before taking a hiatus to serve as PTA president and build her real estate career.

6 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

Likewise, Edie said, “Being a child of two Holocaust Survivors, I want to make sure that the Jewish people survive and that my parents’ survival meant something beyond our own family. Second, it was through the AJCC and the Federation that my husband and I made most of our friends in Long Beach. It gave us a home in a place where we knew no one. I want to make sure that our community stays strong and is there for generations to come. I want them to feel part of a greater Jewish Community and be connected in a positive way as we did.”.

Ultimately, Edie and Barry assumed the Co-Presidency of the newly integrated Jewish Long Beach board in January 2022, serving through December. Their leadership has truly left a legacy in the community.

Deborah K. Goldfarb served as CEO of the Jewish Federation and Community Foundation from 2005 to 2019, and as Interim Executive Director of the Alpert JCC from 2020 to 2021. *”JCC” refers to any programs or activities that took place at the Long Beach JCC prior to the generous gift from the Alpert Family in 1998.

HILLEL

COMMUNITY

Bet On Our Students!

Beach Hillel is thrilled to announce its first ever Casino Night gala on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Community members are invited to enjoy a night at the casino featuring an evening of drink, food, casino entertainment and prizes.

This year’s theme “Bet On Our Students” celebrates the impact of Beach Hillel as they continue their mission of developing the next generation of Jewish leaders in Greater Long Beach. The gala will be generously hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Alevy at their beautiful residence in Long Beach. The Alevys have been long time supporters of Beach Hillel and hope to welcome you to their home.

“Bet On Our Students” celebrates the impact of Beach Hillel as they continue their mission of developing the next generation of Jewish leaders in Greater Long Beach.

Beach Hillel is pleased to announce Jim Breslauer and Dr. Jane Conoley as their 2023 Beach Hillel Community Leader honorees.

Tickets to the gala will include initial chips to play popular casino games like blackjack, poker, and roulette with professional dealers, and attendees will be able to purchase more chips at the event.

For more information, please contact Beach Hillel Executive Director ChayaLeah Sufrin at clsufrin@beachhillel.org.

GAMES, HAMANTASCHEN, PARADE, AND AN INTERACTIVE FAMILY CONCERT WITH ELLEN ALLARD

Great for all ages

Community Purim Celebration SUN | MARCH 5 | 12:30 - 4 PM at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus

ostume Join the C ! t 2:30 PM Parade a

$10/person in advance | $18 at door Children under 2 get in FREE

Admission includes concert, games & activities Food available for purchase

Sing al ong wi th The of Jewi Queen sh Earl y Child hood Music a t 3 PM!

ALPERT JCC | 3801 E. WILLOW, LONG BEACH, CA 90815 | ALPERTJCC.ORG/PURIM23 JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 7

COMMUNITY

REFLECTIONS

Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed Children

Rabbi Yitzchok Newman | Head of Hebrew Academy; Rabbi Congregation Lubavitch

Jews of all ages celebrate the Passover Seder with the help of its playbook - the Haggadah. The word Haggadah stems from the Biblical passage of ‘tell your children’. The Seder is focused on the children. The Seder challenge is how to keep the children bright eyed and bushy tailed through the evening. This same challenge exists year round with our children. How do we accomplish this feat?

Synagogue Directory Beit HaLev  I

P.O. Box 2279 Seal Beach, CA 90740 Rabbi Galit Levy-Slater 562.715.0888 duets@icloud.com www.beithalev.com­­­

Isidore Rabi, winner of a Nobel Prize in physics, was once asked why he became a scientist. He replied “My mother made me a scientist without ever intending to. Every other Jewish mother in Brooklyn would ask her child after school: So? Did you learn anything today? But not my mother. “Izzy,” she would say, “did you ask a good question today?” That difference — asking good questions — made me become a scientist.”

R Beth David 

It is indeed about the student asking the ‘good question’ but, equally important, it is about a teacher who uses that teachable moment to respond properly and effectively and bring growth and maturity to the ‘child’.

O Chabad of Los Alamitos & Cypress 

Rabbi Yitzchok Newman

The Haggadah talks about the four sons (of course, daughters also): the wise, the rebellious, the simple and the uninquisitive. One interpretation is that, instead of four different sons, it is a natural progression of the same son at different stages. It starts with an innocent and lively child who is full of curiosity and sincerely inquires because of his thirst for knowledge.

But if he is not given the proper attention and good answers, he becomes ultimately distraught and rebellious. His frustration results in negative and even defiant types of questions and interactions. He is nevertheless still engaging in the conversation. In time he gives up his involvement and ceases his interaction with others. Outwardly he seems dull and simple. And, in the final stage, it results in the child giving up altogether - an apathetic child not willing to ask and explore.

Even the most capable leader of the Seder cannot turn around the uninquisitive to the wise son in one evening. However, over the long run, capable and talented teachers are able to utilize the teachable moments when good questions are posed and stimulate the child with the most penetrating answers. This type of an environment has the potential to produce the next generation of involved Jews and the equivalent of the Jewish Nobel Prize winners.

It would be prudent for communal organizations to tend to the needs of the wise and curious child in Judaism and provide them the opportunity to receive stimulating answers in order for them to continue along their Jewish path forward. We need to keep the Jewish child in the ‘wise’ stage to succeed. One such institution that, based on extensive research, achieves that goal is the Jewish day school. With over 300,000 students nationally it builds an environment of inquiry through passionate teachers who search for the teachable moment to bring their students into a Jewish future.

May we all merit to see growth in our children on the night of the Seder and throughout the year with true Yiddishe nachas.

Happy Passover to all.

6100 Hefley St. Westminster, CA 92683 Rabbi Nancy Myers 714.892.6623 tbdavid@templebethdavid.org www.templebethdavid.org 12340 Seal Beach Blvd. Suite B-219 Seal Beach, CA 90740 Rabbi Shmuel Marcus 714.828.1851 smarcus@jewishcypress.com www.chabadlosal.com

Chabad of West Orange County/ O Congregation Adat Israel  5052 Warner Ave. Huntington Beach, CA 92649 Rabbi Aron David Berkowitz 714.846.2285 info@chabadhb.com www.chabadhb.com

O Congregation Lubavitch 

3981 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90807 Rabbi Yitzchok Newman 562.596.1681 yitzyg@aol.com

I Congregation Shir Chadash 

6440 Del Amo Blvd.

Lakewood, CA 90713 Rabbi Karen Isenberg 562.429.0715 csclakewood@dslextreme.com www.csclakewood.org

Congregation Sholom of Leisure World, Seal Beach  C Mail to: PO Box 2901 Seal Beach, CA 90740 1421 Northwood Road Seal Beach, CA 90740 President Carol A. Stern Levine Phone: Direct 562.505.3622 Phone: Membership 562.430.7040 congsholomlwsb@gmail.com I P’nai Or 

3955 N. Studebaker Road Long Beach, CA 90808 Email: info@pnaior.org Website: www.pnaior.org

Shul By The Shore  O

3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, California 90815 Rabbi Abba Perelmuter 562.621.9828 rabbi@shulbytheshore.org www.shulbytheshore.org

President/Project Manager

562-233-9934 alan@solarwholesalegroup.com

Www.solarwholesalegroup.com ·

Now offering BATTERY BACKUP for your home

·

Save up to 40% off of your electric bill per year

·

ZERO DOWN options available

·

PROTECT YOURSELF from rate increases

·

30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT is BACK!

·

$500 DONATION to JLB, JCC or JFCS in your name

8 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

R Temple Beth Ohr 

15721 E. Rosecrans Ave. La Mirada, CA 90638 Rabbi Dr. Mark Goldfarb Phone: 714.521.6765 office@tbolm.org www.tbolm.org

C Temple Beth Shalom 

3635 Elm Avenue Long Beach, CA 90807 Rabbi Ben Goldstein 562.426.6413 office@tbslb.org www.tbslb.org R Temple Israel 

269 Loma Ave. Long Beach, CA 90803 Rabbi Scott Fox 562.434.0996 info@tilb.org www.tilb.org

Temple Ner Tamid of Downey  I 10629 Lakewood Boulevard Downey, CA 90241 Rabbi Daniel Mehlman 562.861.9276 C Conservative  I Independent  O Orthodox  R Reform 

SPOTLIGHT

JEWISH LONG BEACH & ALPERT JCC

Welcoming our new Security Director, Meredith Burke Kevin Giser | Chief Development & Operating Officer

Meredith Burke joined the Secure Community Network (SCN) in 2022 as Community Security Director for Jewish Long Beach. In her new role, Burke will coordinate with federal, state, and local law enforcement, and nonprofit, public, private, and other stakeholder organizations on community safety and security matters. In addition, she will provide training, consultation, assistance with grant applications, and serve as a liaison during crisis response and mitigation efforts.

her FBI service, Burke worked as an attorney at an international trial and litigation law firm. She earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and political science from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Minnesota.

Beyond serving as the most senior supervisory special agent in the FBI’s Long Beach office, Burke has been a resident and active community member of Long Beach since 2002. She is excited to continue in a new public service career, which she views as a natural extension of her lengthy position in law enforcement.

Meredith Burke

“I am thrilled to have accepted a position where I continue in public service to my own community, a community I have called home for over 20 years,” Burke said. “Being employed in a job that allows me to make a meaningful contribution to everyone’s safety and well-being is very fulfilling. I also love having a home base at the Alpert JCC, where there is always something fun and cheerful going on, and you can really see the community coming together and enjoying each other’s company.”

Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC and Meredith will host a community town hall focused on security on Thursday, March 30th. Details to follow on our website and in upcoming newsletters, visit alpertjcc.org to stay up-to-date.

Before joining SCN, Burke served as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation for 21 years. She retired as the Senior Supervisory Resident Agent for the FBI’s Long Beach office, supervising a squad focused on public corruption, healthcare fraud, and complex financial crimes. She previously served as chief of the Internal Investigations Unit and a senior team leader on the Evidence Response Team. Prior to

JOIN US AT TEMPLE BETH SHALOM PAR E N T S N I G H T O U T

MAR H 11

6:30Ͳ10:00 PM

TH M : MUSI

I HT

FR

ITH

A S F R

(18 months and up)

o mo e e a l an

o

lea e call o ema l B o ce

SERVICE SCHEDULE

THURSDAYS AT 8:00 AM

FRIDAYS AT 6:00 PM/SATURDAYS AT 10:00 AM

For more information about our services and programming and for the livestream and zoom links, please visit us at tbslb.org or call (562) 426Ͳ6413.

3635 Elm Avenue—Long Beach, CA 90807

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 9

#YourCenterForLife

ALPERT JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

YOUR CENTER FOR LIFE

Jewish Life & Culture Dana Schneider-Chanzit, dschneider@alpertjcc.org | (562) 426 - 7601 x1067 The Braid (formerly Jewish Women's Theater) presents

True Colors Sunday | March 19 | 2 PM A salon theatre show in which Jews of Color share stories about identity and belonging. Visit alpertjcc.org for tickets!

The Zena and Pauline Gatov Gallery presents

Birds of a Feather by Melanie Block Gottlieb & Anne Kupillas Exhibit: March 2 - 30 | Reception: Sunday, March 12, 1-4 PM Vibrant watercolors take flight in this joint exhibit from two Long Beach-based artists Alpert Classic Film Society First Wednesday of the Month | 7 PM | Virtual March Film: Metropolis (1927). April: The Red Shoes (1948) Happiness & Humor Group First Friday of the Month | 10:30 AM Dr. Susan Mathieu has the secret to a happy life. All seniors are invited, so bring a friend and be ready to laugh!

Jessie Butler Senior Luncheon Wednesday | March 15 & April 19 | 12 PM | Free All active adults are invited to enjoy a free lunch with entertainment. Please RSVP online Senior Shabbat & Luncheon with Temple Israel Saturday | March 25 & April 22 | 11 AM | Free Brief Shabbat morning service led by Temple Israel clergy, followed by kosher lunch & entertainment See Page 12 for our Yom HaShoah programming and Page 17 for upcoming Israel-themed programs »

J Ambassadors stay in the know about our programs and services, offer guidance and information, and make meaningful connections with members and visitors.

Contact Anneleise Thompson at athompson@alpertjcc.org to get involved

Blood Drive Tuesday | March 28 | 9 AM - 3 PM Give Blood in March for a $10 Visa Prepaid Gift Card!

SPRING INTO SUMMER With

Savings on New Memberships

Choose your Offer: • Join for 6 months and get the 7th FREE • Join for 12 months and SAVE 20% Offer valid Mar 1 - Apr 10. Terms & Conditions apply.

GET A

TASTE OF SUMMER

With a FREE Day at the Pool Sunday | April 2 | 10 AM - 3 PM

Enjoy live music, swag, and refreshments, meet AJCC staff, and get SPECIAL DEALS on your favorite summer programs!

Your Center for Fitness | Aquatics | Early Childhood Education | After-School Enrichment Parent & Me Classes | Jewish Life & Culture | Volunteering VISIT ALPERTJCC.ORG FOR THE FULL EVENT AND PROGRAM CALENDAR

10 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

ALPERT JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

YOUR CENTER FOR LIFE

Children, Youth & Families

SUMMER 2023 • JUNE 26 - AUG 25 • AGES 5 - 10TH GRADE

Emily Gould, egould@alpertjcc.org | (562) 426 - 7601 x1091

DAY CAMP • SPORTS CAMPS • SPECIALTY CAMPS

NOW ENROLLING!

J Baby Parent & Me Classes Babies ages 0 - 12 months and their parent are invited to weekly walking groups, social hours, workouts and guest speakers!

Parents: Ask about how you can become an Alpert JCC Member for just $25/month!

Pre-K Informational Night Monday | March 20 | 6 PM Hear from a panel of educators and parents to gain insight on all things Transitional K, Kinder and our Pre-K. Learn about eligibility, expectations, similarities and differences between TK and Pre-K, from a public and private school perspective. alpertjcc.org/ece

Limited time only: Visit alpertjcc.org/camp to SAVE 20% on registraion fees!

Discover evidence of learning on Page 14 »

Fitness, Wellness & Aquatics Elsie Bennett, ebennett@alpertjcc.org | (562) 426 - 7601 x1056

6-Week Ayurveda Meditation Series Tuesdays | March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 4, 11 | 6 PM Strengthen your meditation & yoga practice with the support of Ayurveda, the oldest recorded system of medicine.

Group Fitness & Aquatics Schedules Visit alpertjcc.org or the MY J app for class and pool schedules Free Wellness Workshops Monday | March 13 & April 17 | 12 PM Our monthly workshops are free and open to all, light lunch will be served. March: Memoir Writing. April: Caregiving Stages & Options

Private & Group Lessons • All ages & abilities American Red Cross-certified Instructors AJCC Members SAVE on lesson and registration fees!

Indoor Pickleball is Here Pickleball is open to members only. Limited equipment is available to check out. Love Pickleball? Become an AJCC Pickleball Ambassador! Contact Elsie Bennett for more information Personal Training We welcome clients of all ages and abilities! New AJCC Members: Enjoy a one-hour fitness assessment and three 30-minute Personal Training sessions, all for $99! ($150 value) What makes our fitness community special?

Read our newest column on Page 14 about the impact of our fitness & wellness program »

Ask us about Aqua Fitness for Arthritis!

BARBARA & RAY ALPERT JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER ON THE WEINBERG JEWISH LONG BEACH CAMPUS ONE SOMMER WAY | 3801 E. WILLOW ST. LONG BEACH, CA 90815 HOURS: MON - THURS 6 AM - 9 PM, FRI 6 AM - 6 PM, SAT-SUN 7 AM - 5 PM | CLOSED APR 6 FOR PASSOVER | APR 7 9 AM - 3 PM ALPERTJCC.ORG

(562) 426-7601

/ALPERTJCC

@ALPERT_JCC

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

PEOPLE LOVE US ON YELP!

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 11

COMMUNITY

THERE IS A NAME. , N O S NEVE ER P Y R FO R E V RG OE T ET N .

U

YOM HaShoah

COMMUNITY OBSERVANCE

SUNDAY | APRIL 23 | IN-PERSON AT THE ALPERT JCC Youth Education program at 10 AM followed by the Community Observance at 11 AM Honor Holocaust Remembrance Day on Sunday, April 23rd. Join us at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus at 10 AM for a youth education program for grades 7 and up. The Community Observance will begin at 11 AM with Rabbi Cassi Kail of Temple Beth El, joined by local clergy and students.

The observance is free to attend and all are welcome. RSVP required. Learn more at alpertjcc.org Sponsored by Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC, and grants from the Gerda Seifer Yom HaShoah Fund.

The Gatov Gallery in partnership with Yad VaShem presents Stars Without a Heaven: Children in the Holocaust The exhibition is dedicated to the unique stories of children during the Holocaust through the selection of drawings, poems, letters and toys.

Despite their appalling situations and living conditions, children still engaged in imaginative play, sketching and writing, expressing their hopes, dreams and fears. This display of optimism, positivity, creativity and imagination demonstrate the unique capacity of children to hold on to the forces of life despite living in unspeakable circumstances.

Gerda Seifer Yom HaShoah Fund The Yom HaShoah Community Observance has been part of our community for decades largely due to the tireless work of Gerda Seifer z"l and other Holocaust survivors and their families. If you wish to continue the important work of memorializing the Holocaust, please consider a donation to the Gerda Seifer Yom HaShoah Fund. The Fund makes possible the annual Community Yom HaShoah program, as well as other Holocaust education activities and programs. Donations are payable to: Jewish Long Beach, or call 562.426.7601 ext. 1314, or visit jewishlongbeach.org

12 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

HOLIDAY GREETINGS

COMMUNITY

Celebrating women: Visions returns on Thursday, May 18th Sheryl Stewart | Chair, Jewish Long Beach Women’s Philanthropy

Make plans to join Jewish Long Beach Women’s Philanthropy on Thursday, May 18 as women from throughout our community come together to celebrate friendship, togetherness, and our ability to endure. The 2023 Arlene Solomon Visions event will be held in the Lipeles Auditorium at the Alpert Jewish Community Center on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus, beginning at 5:30pm with check in and dinner at 6:00pm.

This year’s event will feature a delicious kosher dinner, special treats, and a compelling speaker. A resident of northern California, Dashka Slater was raised in a Jewish family and is the award-winning author of The 57 Bus, as well as several other books for kids and teens.

She will join us to offer her perspectives on life and why and how we find ways to fit in.

Visions Co-Chairs, Danielle Van Divort and Ami Guy, are looking forward to bringing back this much-anticipated event after a three-year hiatus. “It will be wonderful to gather again, to reaffirm our commitment to the causes we care about as women,” notes Danielle.

“Please plan to join us as we reconnect with old friends, meet new faces, and celebrate the power and joy of being together,” said Ami. In recent years, Visions honored one woman from each of our local synagogues and community organizations. Having emerged from the uncertainty and restrictions of the pandemic, it is appropriate that this year we will celebrate ALL women in our community and acknowledge our resilience, strength, perseverance, and collective commitment to improving the world.

Couvert tickets for Visions will be $65 per person. Guests will have an opportunity to make their pledge to the 2023 Jewish Long Beach Annual Campaign. Stay tuned for additional details and electronic invitations.

Move with us for mental health awareness!

J F C S P R E S E N T S T H E 35 t h A N N U A L

RACE WITH A VIEW SPONSORED BY LINDA HALEY & DR. MARVIN ZAMOST

MAY 7, 2023 5K/10K WALK/RUN/ROLL

REGISTRATION OPEN NOW!

racewithaview.com JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 13

CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILY

REFLECTIONS

B’Tzelem Elohim and the Potential of Each Child Emily Gould | Executive Director of Children, Youth & Family

Our Early Childhood Education Center teachers and staff are pleased to notice the children’s growing interest and curiosity around learning and academics.

We saw the children beginning to make stronger connections between letters and the sounds they make. To meet the children where they are and encourage their interests, we decided to expand their language arts activities and begin a writer’s workshop. The workshop discusses how writers first think about what they want to write about, then they draw pictures, and last, they add words.

In addition, the children have now requested to play alphabet bingo during language arts.

To guide the children in their independence we added multi-step activities.

The children now get their sign-in book from their mailbox, which is above their cubby, in the morning Monday – Thursday when they arrive. They take their sign-in book to the writing desk and write their name. When they finish writing their name, they put their book in the yellow tray. We have noticed an improvement in the children’s writing skills and their overall confidence in writing.

B’Tzelem Elohim, or Divine Image, is a Jewish value that honors the Dignity and Potential of each person. Similarly, the “Image of the Child” is a core principle of the Reggio Emilia approach to Early Childhood Education. This concept recognizes that children are capable, resourceful, powerful, and full of potential. Through this lens, we have noticed the children’s growing confidence in their writing skills. They have learned they are capable of reading and writing through drawing pictures and expressing in words what they have written.

Making connections between what they put on paper and what they want to say helps strengthen their early emergent writing skills even further.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The ECE Writers Workshop improves children’s motor, problem solving, and direction-following skills.

REFLECTIONS

Alpert JCC partners with JCC Krakow’s Ride for the Living for 8th year Amy Lakin | Chief Program Officer

Ride for the Living combines Holocaust education with an inspiring one-day bike ride from the gates of Auschwitz-Birkenau to JCC Krakow, giving participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in Krakow’s Jewish past, present, and future. The complete in-person four-day experience boasts a full schedule of activities, including a private guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, tours of Krakow, participation in Poland’s largest annual Shabbat dinner, and the 14- or 60-mile bike ride. There are also activities for non-riders. Participants raise funds to support the resurgence of Jewish life in Poland. The Ride for the Living Global Challenge allows for remote participation from anywhere in the world.

Alpert JCC has been the longest continuous global partner of RFTL (this is our 8th year) since our Fitness and Wellness Director Elsie Bennett led the first satellite ride in 2015. Elsie was a personal trainer and fitness instructor at the AJCC at that time, and she still remembers leading the first ride. She recalls, “I remember hearing about the ride from my manager and I was so moved as it was truly inspiring, and I thought that we should be a part of this. It was a very emotional 90-minute ride, as the participants educated me on what had happened, and I was able to learn the true meaning of the ride.” RFTL commemorates and memorializes the murdered Jews of Europe and celebrates the fact that we are still here – free to ride away from this place in a group of proud Jews and allies.

Elsie says, “Since the first ride in 2015, I’ve made the ride a priority and we have participated in the RFTL Global Challenge, and it has truly brought our community together time and time again. It was something we held on to during the pandemic, and it really carried us through. It has been an honor to lead the rides.”

You can participate in the global RFTL challenge as we will be having a 90-min spin ride at the AJCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus on Friday June 30 at 9:30am. Visit alpertjcc.org/fitness or contact Elsie at ebennett@ alpertjcc.org to get involved!

Spin instructor Kristina Shafton (left) and Fitness, Wellness and Aquatics Director Elsie Bennett (middle) sport their commemorative Ride for the Living 2021 jerseys.

14 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

HEBREW ACADEMY ORANGE COUNTY

COMMUNITY

Preparing for AI’s Impact on the Future: The Hebrew Academy’s Visionary Approach to Education Rochie Popack

AI is all the rage. From Jasper to ChatGPT, AI is crossing generational and social boundaries.

People worldwide are turning to technology to create content for blogs and websites, to write work emails, and even to help script difficult conversations.

I decided to test AI for the Hebrew Academy and asked the chatbot why families enroll their children in Jewish Day Schools. As I sat at my desk, sipping my coffee, the chatbot collected and processed data and generated an article —” Why You Should Enroll Your Child in a Jewish Day School.”

‫ב"ה‬

HEBREW ACADEMY COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL

WHERE TRADITION MEETS EXCELLENCE

And here it is (an unbiased, unfiltered AI-generated case for why you should enroll your child in a Jewish Day School): As parents, we all want the best for our children, and a Jewish Day School is a decision that can profoundly impact your child’s education, spiritual development, and overall well-being.

Here are just a few reasons why you might consider sending your child to a Jewish Day School: • A Strong Jewish Education: Jewish Day Schools offer a comprehensive education that includes traditional academic subjects, Jewish studies, Hebrew, and Jewish history. The dual curriculum allows your child to understand and appreciate their Jewish heritage and culture.

• A Sense of Community: Jewish Day Schools provide a sense of community that can be hard to find in other educational settings. Peers and teachers who share their beliefs and values promote a sense of belonging and acceptance.

• A Focus on Values: Jewish Day Schools place a strong emphasis on values such as tzedakah (charity), chesed (kindness), and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world). These values are integrated into the curriculum and modeled by teachers and staff, which helps children develop a sense of responsibility and compassion towards others.

• A Safe Learning Environment: Jewish Day Schools provide a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment where children can grow and develop without fear of harassment or discrimination.

• Strong College Preparation: Jewish Day Schools have a solid academic curriculum and prepare students well for college. Many students are accepted to top universities and are well-equipped to succeed in their college careers.

Sending your child to a Jewish Day School can be a valuable investment in their education, spiritual development, and overall well-being. It offers them a comprehensive education, a sense of community, a focus on values, a safe learning environment, and college preparation. In addition, it gives your child a foundation that will serve them well throughout life.

The chatbot’s article, filled with truths about Jewish education, is missing creative thought, feeling, and heart. With AI on the rise, the Hebrew Academy recognizes the missing elements of authenticity, connection, and passion.

The Hebrew Academy is committed to empowering the next generation of Jewish leaders and thinkers. Our dedicated teachers foster authentic relationships, learning, critical thinking, problemsolving, and life skills. Our hands-on, innovative lessons allow students to engage and connect with their education in real time. With our authentic community of compassionate and caring families, we learn the true meaning of chesed and its significant role in society. Our parents are just as invested as our administrators in sharing this rich connectivity and collaborative community.

If you have any questions, thoughts, or goals for your children, reach out to our Admissions Director, Karen, she can connect you with a Parent Ambassador who can share their experiences.

INSPIRING FACULTY FOR A PURPOSE-DRIVEN EDUCATION Our dedicated and experienced faculty deliver purpose-driven education through a diverse and inclusive curriculum that combines Jewish heritage, traditional academics, and opportunities for creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, fostering personal and academic growth.

A SAFE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY FOR GROWTH Hebrew Academy is a safe and inclusive community where all students feel valued, respected, and included. Surrounded by supportive peers and dedicated faculty, your child will thrive and grow in an atmosphere of respect and compassion.

WHERE TRADITION MEETS EXCELLENCE At Hebrew Academy, tradition and excellence come together to provide a top-notch education that cultivates a strong sense of identity and a lifelong love of learning for your child.

JOIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF JEWISH LEADERS SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY Visit: www.HACDS.org/tour Call: (714)898-0051 ext. 284 Email: admissions@hacds.org

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 15

COMMUNITY

HOLIDAY GREETINGS

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Don & Andrea Kaiser and Family

Shirley Ross

Jeffrey, Lauren, Ellie, Joshua and Jacob Rips

Laurie & Robert Raykoff and Family

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover

Jann Kronick-Gath and Chance Gath

Judi and Arthur Gelb and Family

Rosecarrie and Alan Brooks

Happy Passover Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Long Beach & West Orange Co.

Happy Pesach, Good Health, and Peace David and Sadie Sacks

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover Marc, Sybil, Rachael, David, Deborah, Lily & Jonathan Tamaroff

Happy Passover Susan & Mark Paletz

16 | CHRONICLE

|

Happy Passover Aaron and Leslie Kern

Wishing You and Your Family a Happy Passover National Council of Jewish Women Greater Long Beach & West Orange County Section

MARCH – APRIL 2023

Happy Passover The Mathieu Family, Susan, Pam, Joseph, Terri, Daniel, Nicole & Taylor

Happy Passover Yolanda and Victor Placencio

Wishing You & Your Family a Happy Passover Kevin Giser and Emma Rees

Happy Passover Happy Passover Jessie Butler, Ellen, Sara, Carla, Heidy & Families

ISRAEL AT 75

COMMUNITY

Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC Celebrate

JCC Maccabi Games Israel July 5 - 25 This Olympic-style sporting event for Jewish teens ages 14-17 is held every summer. Athletes compete in team or individual sports and participate in social activities and social action projects rooted in Jewish values.

Contact Susan Paletz at spaletz@alpertjcc.org to get involved.

Israel's Desert Magic presented by Jewish National Fund (JNF), Temple Israel, and Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC Wednesday | March 22 | 6 - 7 PM | Alpert JCC Hanni Arnon, Executive Director of AICAT (Arava International Center for Agricultural Training) will give a presentation on their impact on the Arava region on the Negev. AICAT is a JNF-USA funded environmental & agricultural program that encompasses both education and advocacy.

Free to attend. Visit alpertjcc.org for more information.

Yom HaZikaron Virtual Observance presented by Beach Hillel Tuesday | April 25 | Time TBD Commemorate Israel's Memorial Day with a virtual observance led by Hillel students.

The Hummus Wars: Buying and Boycotting Middle Eastern Foods presented by CSULB Jewish Studies Wednesday | April 26 | 7 - 9 PM | Alpert JCC Dr. Ari Ariel will show that hummus wars create a non-violent space for the conflict between Jews and Palestinians (and Arabs) within which political conflict can work itself out.

Free to attend. Contact Dr. Jeffrey Blutinger for more information at jeffrey.blutinger@csulb.edu

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 17

COMMUNITY

NEWS

EVENTS

See What’s Happening in Your Community Jewish Long Beach and Alpert JCC Every Wednesday, 10:30 am Barbara Alpert Singing Circle All are welcome! No singing experience necessary.

Every Wednesday, 1:00 pm Mah Jongg $5/session, Members play free First Wednesday of the Month, 7:00 pm Alpert Classic Film Society — Meets Virtually March Film: Metropolis April Film: The Red Shoes First Friday of the Month, 10:30 am Happiness & Humor with Dr. Susan Mathieu Sunday, March 5, 12:30 – 4:00 pm Community Purim Celebration Tuesday, March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 4, 11, 6:00 – 7:00 pm 6-Week Meditation & Ayurveda Workshop Series Monday, March 13, April 17, 12:00 – 1:30 pm March Wellness Workshop: Memoir Writing April Wellness Workshop: Caregiving Stages & Options Wednesday, March 15, April 19, 12:00 – 2:00 pm Jessie Butler Senior Luncheon Sunday, March 19, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm Performance of “True Colors” presented by the Braid Wednesday, March 22, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Israel’s Desert Magic presented by JNF Saturday, March 25, April 22, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Senior Shabbat & Luncheon Tuesday, March 28, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm American Red Cross Blood Drive Thursday, March 30, Time TBD Security Town Hall Sunday, April 2, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Taste of Summer: A FREE Day of swimming, live music, and summer program registration Sunday, April 23, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Yom HaShoah Community Observance Beth David Sunday, March 5, 10:00 am Pet Purim Shpiel Hear the Story of Esther Prizes awarded.

Sunday, March 5, 11:15 am - 2:00 pm Purim Carnival Enjoy virtual reality (Oculus), silly relay races and carnival games, a jail cell, the Hamantaschen Hustle (aka: cake walks), a bounce house, face painting, 18 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023

costume parade, a visit from Queen Esther, a beer garden for adults, food JD and music, Jurassic pets and even a Haman Booth for you to compete with Haman as the judge. There is also a silent auction, Hamantaschen and much more.

For more information and to RSVP for events call 657.235.2511 or email communityservice@ ncjwlongbeach.org.

Saturday, March 11, 9:00 am Mind, Body, & Spirit Shabbat.

Monday, April 24, 12:00 Noon 10 Days in a Hayloft At the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus.

Sunday, March 19, 11:00 am Brotherhood and Adult Education Brunch Bryan Palbaum President and COO of Trader Joe’s.

Sharon-Carmel Hadassah

Thursday, April 6, 6:00 pm Second Night Seder Contact Beth David at 714.892.6623 for prices and reservations.

Join us as we watch a short film and listen to guest speaker Dan Schlesinger who will share the emotionally gripping story about how his father survived the Holocaust. Cost $25 Lunch included.

RSVP is required, please contact Eileen Braeman at 562.420.9980.

Tuesday, April 18, 6:30 pm Holocaust Commemoration Service with candle lighting and choir.

Orange County Jewish Genealogical Society (OCJGS)

Sunday, April 23, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Women of Beth David present award-winning author and journalist Chris Epting for a fun and informative afternoon. He will speak on Orange County History.

Sunday, March 26, 10:00 am Michael Morgenstern Romanian Research: Genealogical Gems in the Forverts

NCJW Greater Long Beach & W. Orange County

Sunday, April 23, 10:00 am Jakub Czupryski Polish Archives

Tuesday, March 7, 4:30 pm Long Beach Commission on Women and Girls Join us and other local women’s groups to gather with NCJW member and former Councilwoman Renee Simon at Long Beach City Hall on Ocean Blvd to promote the current Council passing an Ordinance to create this commission.

Thursday, March 16, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Filling Hugpacks for Foster Youth at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus Many helping hands are needed, so join us in giving a “hug” to vulnerable children entering the foster care system! RSVP is required.

Thursday, March 23, 7:00 pm 4th Thursday Virtual Movie Night:The Fabelmans Watch at your leisure and join us to discuss this popular movie. For further information contact programs@ncjwlongbeach.org or call 675.235.2511.

Sunday, April 16, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Annual Elections & Hot Topics Panel in Social Justice Fulfilling Our Mission to Help Women, Children and Families. At the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus, afternoon snacks to be provided.

NCJW Statewide Lobby Day NCJW lobbies within California for legislation that benefits women, children, and families. Lobby Day activities will take place in mid-April. Contact advocacy@ncjwlongbeach.org if you are interested in helping to coordinate meetings with local legislators or attending any of those meetings. We will also have training sessions for NCJW Statewide Lobby Day.

For more information and to register please visit ocjgs.org Jewish Family & Children’s Service JFCS is pleased to announce that Jennifer Alban Seislove has joined their team as Director of Development, following Pattie Davidson’s retirement. Jennifer has more than 15 years of Jennifer Alban Seislove experience in the non-profit Director of Development industry, supporting the growth of programming for organizations through strategic fundraising and communications efforts.

Before joining JFCS, Jennifer developed and led all fundraising initiatives at the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation and oversaw the college scholarship program. She was also selected by her peers to lead the SCGA Women & Diversity Committee, setting the strategic priorities for the organization as it related to membership growth and programming for these audiences.

Jennifer holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree from Cal State Long Beach. Additionally, she has received her certificate in Principles & Techniques in Fundraising from IUPUI The Fund Raising School and has supported her leadership advancement through coursework at the Center for Creative Leadership. Jennifer grew up in the Long Beach Jewish community and participated in the Alpert New Leaders Forum in 2017.

IN MEMORIAM

JEWISH LONG BEACH ALPERT JCC

FROM JEWISH LONG BEACH & ALPERT JCC BOARD, LEADERSHIP & STAFF IN MEMORY OF Harriet Zamansky Beloved sister & sister-in-law to Wayne Slavitt & Joanne Ratner Faina Pogrebinsky Beloved mother to Nina Ayzenberg Arnie Weintraub Beloved husband to Sharon Weintraub Honey Ettinger Beloved mother & motherin-law to Ilyse & Alan Brawer Joshua Kaye Beloved husband to Dorothy Kaye Salvador Mayo Beloved father & father-in-law to Howard & Dove Mayo Ron Bates Beloved husband to Marilyn Bates Franklin Rayor Beloved father-in-law to Jay Eiser Beloved grandfather to Beth Sterling

Paul Kizner Beloved father & father-in-law to Joel & Ronna Kizner Jacob (Jack) Epstein Beloved father & father-in-law to Howard & Nancy Epstein

IN HONOR OF Edie & Joel Brodsky Happy 50th Anniversary

GET WELL SOON Dr. Joel Epstein Patricia Spievak Jerry Kaufman Thinking of you & sending warm wishes your way

GENERAL FUND IN MEMORY OF Harriet Zamansky Beloved sister & sister-in-law to Wayne Slavitt & Joanne Ratner from Arlene & Rick Freeman Gerda Seifer from Harold Seifer Herbert & Ruth Sugarman Beloved parents Julie Sugarman Beloved wife from Larry Sugarman Honey Ettinger Beloved mother & motherin-law to Ilyse & Alan Brawer from Sharon Kenigsberg

IN HONOR OF Edie & Joel Brodsky Happy 50th Anniversary from Binnie & Jack Berro Nicole Honigman from Cheryl Avirom Zach Benjamin Happy 40th Birthday from Barbara Linn Natalya Hudis Happy Birthday from Rita & Barry Zamost

GET WELL SOON Dr. Joel Epstein Thinking of you & sending warm wishes your way from Arlene & Rick Freeman

GERDA SEIFER YOM HASHOAH FUND IN MEMORY OF Gerda Seifer Beloved wife To Dr. Harold Seifer from Rabbi Mark & Deborah Goldfarb from Shelley Krantz from Kristina Shafton from Judi & Arthur Gelb from Sharon Kenigsberg Drs. Aaron & Leslie Kern Jay Alhadeff Drs. Lois & Herb Abrams Andrea Karabenick & Aaron Morris For Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC tributes call: 562.426.7601 ext 1314

RABIN ISRAEL GOLDSTEIN YOUTH VILLAGE FUND IN MEMORY OF Dr. Jack Rabin Beloved husband to Karen Rabin Beloved father to Gaby Tsabag from Sharon & Marty Kenigsberg

JESSIE BUTLER SENIOR MEAL PROGRAM IN HONOR OF Natalie Chernik Daughter from David Chernik

TRIBUTES

JFCS SCHULMAN FUND IN MEMORY OF Gerda Seifer to Harold Seifer from Jenny Zavatsky

MAY THEIR MEMORY BE A BLESSING Harriet Zamansky Arnie Weintraub Faina Pogrebinsky Honey Ettinger Ron Bates Joseph Posard Joshua Kaye Salvador Mayo Bea Aron Franklin Rayor Marvin Zavatsky Jenny Zavatsky Paul Kizner Jacob (Jack) Epstein We extend our condolences to the families and friends of those who have recently lost a loved one.

MARCIE BALAN BLAKEY FUND IN HONOR OF Jean Blakey to Bruce & Alene Balan from Paul & Marie Brindze For JFCS tributes call: 562.427.7916

COMMUNITY

If you know of someone who has recently passed and would like them recognized in our publication, please send your request to: chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org

Zichrono Livrakha

Creating a Jewish Legacy WHY NOW?

Our community benefits every year from generous donors who created legacy gifts: gifts of permanence (endowments) that support our annual campaigns, operations, community programs, and new initiatives. Contributions from endowments are a critical source of ongoing annual funding that helps to make possible much of the vibrant, diverse Jewish experience from which we benefit today.

A legacy gift is a fundamental act of faith – when we leave these gifts, we do not know what is going to happen in the future, but we are driven by a belief in the future of the Jewish people.

HOW IT WORKS

There are many giving options for donors to deepen their connection to Jewish life and community. We work across the Jewish ecosystem with donors to find the best vehicles that meets their goals and needs.

These include but are not limited to Donor Advised Funds (DAF), named funds, and varied endowments, like Lion of Judah Endowment, Unrestricted Endowments, and others.

To learn more about creating your own Legacy, please contact Kevin Giser, Chief Operating & Development Officer at kgiser@jewishlongbeach.org.

JEWISHLONGBEACH.ORG

|

5783 ADAR – NISSAN – IYAR | 19

The Jewish Community Chronicle

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus 3801 E. Willow Street, Long Beach, CA 90815

PAID Permit No. 129 Long Beach, CA

Postperson please deliver by 2/28/23

Change Service Requested

T E M P L E I S R A E L LO N G B E AC H

CELEBRATE PURIM WITH US! SATURDAY, MARCH 4 AT 7:30 PM This year’s Purim Shpiel is “The Mamma Mia Megillah” based on the music of Abba

Come dressed in your best 70’s theme costume!

RABBI LAURA NOVAK WINER PILGER SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE

FRIDAY, MARCH 24 - SUNDAY, MARCH 26 During Shabbat Evening Service

THE PURSUIT OF JUSTICE AND HEALING

Saturday Torah Study

PARASHAT VAYIKRA: OFFERING OUR BEST SELVES

Lunch and Learn 11:30 am

REFORMERS AND RABBLE ROUSERS: FIFTY YEARS OF WOMEN IN THE RABBINATE

Sunday Learning and Discussion

REFORM ROOTS AND RESOLVE IN THE REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE MOVEMENT For more information visit our website or RSVP to Charmaine clw@tilb.org Generously sponsored by Temple Israel Foundation’s Pilger Fund

WE ARE A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE REFORM CONGREGATION INSPIRING JEWISH LIFE IN LONG BEACH FOR OVER 99 YEARS!

269 LO M A AV E N U E • LO N G B E AC H , C A 90803 • 562.434 .0 9 9 6 • W W W. T I L B. O R G 20 | CHRONICLE

|

MARCH – APRIL 2023