Chronicle May - June 2024

CHRONICLE

THE VOICE OF

Jewish Long Beach Mission

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.

Jewish Long Beach Vision

To build and sustain, now and for future generations, a vibrant Jewish community committed to fostering tikkun olam (repairing the world) and the well-being of all people through visionary leadership, giving, and meaningful experiences for all.

Susan Paletz Director of Fund & Community Development Rachel Roberts Co-designer & Co-editor

Yolanda Placencio Co-editor

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

Ad & Copy deadline for July/August 2024 issue: June 6, 2024

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 - ©Jewish Long Beach Chronicle ©2024 Jewish Long Beach All Rights Reserved.

Long Beach

HaZikaron

Monday • May 13 • 6:30 PM

At the Alpert JCC • Free and open to all

Honor Israel’s Memorial Day (Yom HaZikaron) and celebrate its Independence Day (Yom Ha’atzmaut) with an Israel Q&A Panel and a short memorial service led by Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Perelmuter with Beach Hillel. Afterward, enjoy Israeli bites (falafel, pita, desserts), drinks, mitzvah projects, and community togetherness.

Panelists

Shlomit Jackson ChayaLeah Sufrin Danielle Van Divort Doron Skortov Gabby Meghiddo

Where Fitness Meets Holocaust Education

Jewish Long Beach Staff

Ride for the Living (RFTL) is a program created by JCC Krakow that commemorates the 60-mile journey that liberated Jews walked from AuschwitzBirkenau to Krakow, Poland with a symbolic bike ride following their same journey. Participants from around the world gather to take part in this incredible experience in Poland as a way of honoring Holocaust victims and the rebirth of the Jewish community in Krakow.

In response to the pandemic, JCC Krakow crafted a remote Virtual Ride for the Living Global Challenge experience

so people could still participate in this meaningful event from the comfort and safety of their own community. Virtual RFTL combined fitness and Holocaust education to help support JCC Krakow and survivors around the world. The Alpert JCC is proud to have participated in the Virtual RFTL Global Challenge each year since it began. This beloved program returns to the J on Tuesday, June 25, with a full day of special fitness programs.

When Russia attacked Ukraine in 2022, the world changed. Overnight, JCC Krakow turned into a full-scale

RFTL at the AJCC Schedule: Tues, June 25

6:30 am 9:30 am

5:30 pm

6:30 pm

Swim Laps in the Mary Alpert Pool Walk with Friends starting at the front of the AJCC Themed Spin Class (RSVP required) RFTL Reception – Open to All!

humanitarian relief agency running dozens of projects and directly helping over 300,000 Ukrainian refugees and counting. In addition, when Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th, they also helped dozens of Israeli families in Krakow who needed housing and a welcoming community.

You can support the critical work of our partner agency by pledging per lap/ mile or donating a flat rate. All proceeds will benefit JCC Krakow’s efforts to help Ukranian and Israeli refugees, Holocaust survivors, and the Jewish community in Krakow survive and thrive. Pledge forms will be available at each event, at the AJCC front desk, or online.

For more information about RFTL fitness events, please contact Elsie Bennett at ebennett@alpertjcc.org. If you are interested in volunteering at any of our RFTL events, please contact Anneleise Thompson at athompson@alpertjcc.org.

For more information about fundraising and donating, please contact Kevin Giser at kgiser@jewishlongbeach.org.

Commemorative RFTL jerseys can be ordered through JCC Krakow directly.

Fitness Instructor Kristina Shafton motivated RFTL participants.

JFNA Israel Emergency Campaign Surpasses $800 Million

Deborah K. Goldfarb | Interim CEO, Jewish Long Beach

Support of Israel has been one of the cornerstones of our local Federation and JCC (now Jewish Long Beach) throughout our combined 75year history. Each year we now allocate 10% of our Annual Campaign funds to be distributed to Israel through the Jewish Federations of North America. Our community has historically responded positively to the numerous Israel Emergency Campaigns that have been mounted over the many times Israel has been attacked.

Immediately following the October 7th Hamas attack Jewish Federations of North America launched their emergency relief campaign. To date the campaign has surpassed the $800 million mark with our local community contributing over $300,000 to the effort. Thank you all for all your generous contributions. Together

we are doing our small part to address the tremendous economic and emotional issues that many in Israel now face. Out of $806 million raised by Jewish Federations, $410 million has been allocated to the most pressing needs on the ground through nearly 300 partner organizations and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs). Organizations that have received funding include our core partners, the Jewish Agency for Israel, JDC, and World ORT, as well as many other partner organizations including ReGrow, Project Horizon, Magen David Adom, Israel Trauma Coalition, and Brothers and Sisters for Israel.

Additionally, the Jewish Federations’ Israel Emergency Loan Fund is providing a lifeline to businesses across Israel who were severely impacted by the war and without access to traditional banking credit. Through its Investment Committee, the Loan Fund allocates funds to loan platforms who then provide loans to small businesses in a particular set of markets and sectors, including agriculture.

Through the ReGrow program, Jewish Federations have pledged to support the farming communities of Western Negev through grants up to $12.5 million to urgently replace equipment destroyed and looted by Hamas terrorists, allowing them to resume farming in time for the spring planting season.

The allocations enable the loan platforms to provide lower interest loans and to cover default risks in order to leverage larger scale loans from banks. Through these loans, Jewish Federations are supporting the Israeli economy at a time of unprecedented need and sustaining businesses that employ tens of thousands of people.

Federations have also taken special care to fund populations who have particular or specialized needs during this emergency, including at-risk youth, the LGBQT+ Community, Young Children, Women, Bedouin Communities, and People with Disabilities.

continued on page 9

Deborah K. Goldfarb

Ethiopian olim children from the south in the hotel they were evacuated to near Haifa.

Packing food in Sderot IACC Photo Credit Ronan Horesh

JEWISH LONG BEACH

Announcing the 2024 Women of Vision

Susan Paletz | Director of Fund & Community Development

Jewish Long Beach Women’s Philanthropy continues tradition of honoring outstanding volunteers at Arlene Solomon Visions on May 2, 2024

Lauren Friedman

With her “can-do” attitude and a desire to give back and help others, Lauren truly exemplifies a “Woman of Vision”. Lauren was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs in a strong Jewish community. She credits her grandparents in being instrumental in shaping her Jewish identity. Her commitment to the Jewish people was further strengthened when she went to Israel in her 20s on a Jewish Federation trip. In 2017 Lauren went again to Israel with, her husband of 26 years, Stuart, and her mother-in-law Evelyn.

With her devotion to Judaism and community, it is no wonder that when the Friedmans moved to Long Beach in 2010, Lauren immediately got involved. Lauren has served as the Alpert JCC co-chair of the annual appeal; Jewish Long Beach Super Sunday volunteer; Temple Israel Gala Committee and was the Belmont Heights Make a Difference Day activity co-coordinator for four years; supported Fremont elementary school science & technology fundraiser and was their Business Partner chair.

Lauren has been extremely active in Jewish Long Beach Women’s Philanthropy Cabinet for many years. She was invited to serve as a Lentzner Fellow (a program created to further develop top younger leaders). She was honored with the Fred Neuburger Young Leadership Award in 2019 (along with Rachel Suojanen) for co-chairing the Women’s Philanthropy Prom Dress Drive/Boutique. During the Pandemic, Lauren gave her time helping to pack lunches for delivery to seniors through the AJCC.

Lauren has recently focused her volunteering to support Jewish College Students as she has two sons in college (Aaron & Jakob) and her third son Nathan will be in college soon. To that end, she is currently on the board of Beach Hillel

and serves as a co-chair of the College Connection at Temple Israel.

Lauren has a degree in Elementary Education but found her passion to be residential real estate. With over 25 years of experience as a residential real estate consultant, Lauren has been consistently recognized as a top performer (Currently affiliated with Keller Williams Pacific Estates and the Pennywise Real Estate Group).

Beyond her professional and volunteer achievements, it is helping others that is truly her passion. Lauren states, “I love helping people achieve their dreams, whether it is buying or selling a home or working in the community to help us achieve our community objectives… It makes me happy! I love our community and want to help it grow and prosper.”

Rosecarrie Brooks

Rosecarrie Goslins Brooks was born in the Netherlands and immigrated to the US when she was 6 years old. As an immigrant and daughter of Holocaust survivors, she learned early on about the importance of community and the impact of helping others. Her parents worked very hard establishing themselves in the retail clothing business in Southern California, but they always found time to participate in local civic and philanthropic organizations which ultimately influenced Rosecarrie’s own path in philanthropic endeavors.

In 1972 Rosecarrie and Alan Brooks moved to Belmont Shore. They joined the JCC in 1976 for the inaugural Mommy & Me, a program Rosecarrie helped initiate for our ECE. (At the time Rosecarrie was working as a dental hygienist in private practice and at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital as well as servings as a staff member for the local Dental Hygiene programs, USC, UCLA, Cerritos College teaching the hygiene students how to work with patients with disabilities.)

That JCC membership began a lifetime of volunteering. She served as president of the AJCC for over 2 years during its transition from the old building to this beautiful campus. Having served on the JCC board from 1984 through 2001

she has volunteered and held many positions, including being a member and chair of numerous committees, such as, the Kadimah Summer Camp, Kids Place (a precursor to todays after school programs), The Long Beach Jewish Film festival and more. Subsequently, she served on the Federation, Foundation and Jewish Long Beach boards, and still chairs the Foundation investment committee.

Rosecarrie has also volunteered as a board member since 1999 and eventually as Board Chair (2017-2020) at the California Conference for Equality and Justice, a Long Beach organization dedicated to equality and justice. While since 2008 she has held membership on our local ADL chapter’s board.

Last year Alan and Rosecarrie proudly celebrated the 25th anniversary of a scholarship fund which they founded and fund that supports 100 students annually in Tam Key Vietnam. They are the proud parents of two daughters, a son-in-law and three grandsons.

Linda Temkin Waltzman

Linda Waltzman has lived in Long Beach her whole life, growing up at the Alpert JCC, Camp Komaroff, and Hillel at CSULB. She led a rewarding and fulfilling career as a speech pathologist and special education early interventionist in LBUSD. Now, she cherishes her time with her three children and seven grandchildren. She credits her parents and grandparents as the role models for leadership, love of Israel, volunteerism and taking responsibility for acting upon her values. She especially enjoys meeting and learning about people who are new to our community and bringing them into circles of friendship and support. “I’m grateful for the many opportunities that were here for me over the years,” she says. “Now I’m committed to ensuring that future generations can look forward to even bigger, brighter, and better times ahead.”

Over the years, she has been active in a variety of community agencies and Jewish organizations including National Council of Jewish Women, Hadassah, Jewish

Lauren Friedman

Rosecarrie Brooks

Linda Temkin Waltzman

Women’s Philanthropy, Association of American University Women, End Abuse Long Beach, Congregation Shir Chadash, Temple Israel, Early Childhood Education Committee of LB, Jewish Family and Children’s Services, Jewish Long Beach Board of Directors, Yom Hashoah Memorials, Yom Haatzmaut Celebrations, Jewish Children’s Book Festival, and Annual Kindergarten Festivals. Some of her favorite charities include Jewish National Fund, United Hatzalah, and Save a Child’s Heart.

Jewish Long Beach Women’s Philanthropy would like to thank

Arlene Solomon Visions Chairs

Danielle Van Divort & Ami Guy

Committee

Lauren Friedman, Sheryl Stewart-Chair Women’s Philanthropy, Lynne Kass, Joanne Lopez, Melissa Perlman, Pam Rima, Linda Temkin Waltzman, Pam Weinstein, Pam Keiles, Marian Martin, Janet Rydell, Joyce Greenspan, Deborah Lewis, Wendy Manasse Wiese

Arlene Solomon Visions Sponsors

Platinum: Rosecarrie Brooks, Pam Weinstein, Dr. Karen Zoller, Melissa Carr, Cookie Sieger

Gold: Jessie Butler, Lauren Friedman, Amy Lipeles, Helen Rosenberg, Barbara Shoag, Ilsebill Wolfe, Bonnie Lowenthal, Dr. Gail Levy

Silver: Andrea Kaiser, Laurie Raykoff, Sheryl Stewart, Kathy Kreida, Julie Kinsbursky, Binnie Berro, Judy Lorber, Wendy Manasse Wiese

Chai Angels

Edie Brodsky, Linda Temkin Waltzman, Lea Gerber, Shelley Carl, Susan Paletz, Ruth Cooperman, Nancy Linden, Sara Linden, Natalie Swit, Joyce Greenspan, Leslie Kern, Ava Weiss, Joanne Lopez, Marilyn Yassin, Shari Nemirow, Ami Guy, Danielle Van Divort, Kenneth Schlesinger, Joanne Levy, Kristina Shafton, Linda Simons, Andrea Salisbury, Rhoda Orenstein, Sandy Phillips, Renee Simon, Michelle Gordon, Joyce Feldman, Ellen Goldenberg, Beth Sterling, Pam Keiles

An Open Letter to Skeptics

I recently took my wife Bluma to Italy. The trip had singing gondoliers and rooftop champagne, all to prove my absolute love for my wife, to my wife. It is similar to the ring I gave her years ago and those matching earrings I’m saving for. True love is invisible and intangible, and it requires effort. Absolute confirmation and verified proof of my love would be a fantastic climax, but it would also be the end of our romantic story.

Proof is essential on an x-ray and in a court of law, but trying to fit all life’s adventures into a “proof” box is a mistake. Love, God, and a few other things are invisible and intangible and can’t be proven.

Take the X Factor, for example. It’s called “X” because it is there, although we can’t put our finger on it. We can’t know what ingredients make a hit song. Researchers ran the all-time top 100 Billboard songs through an algorithm to determine what makes a song successful. It was like trying to catch a rainbow with your bare hands. The believer sees proof of a Creator in everything, yet the skeptic remains unsure about

an invisible God. And they’re both right.

Human proof of a creator is solely based on what we see within creation. So, the believer only knows God’s actions and what an unknowable God does. The skeptic is correct that we can’t understand what this unknowable God is.

Does the believer wonder why God is both knowable and unknown, seen and unseen, here yet intangible?

Here’s my thought: True love, art, and God, by definition, cannot completely fit into a proof box like a smoking gun or calculated numbers. Ironically, these allusive intangible parts of life push us to reach the unreachable.

Furthermore, a “provable” God would allow our belief, but the “un-provability” of God allows us to seek to bridge the gap between creation and Creator. It’s the intangibility of love that makes our hearts grow fonder.

Logically, a painting has a painter, and the perfect creation has a Creator, so the believer is fine. My takeaway is that God sees value in life’s unknowable, unprovable parts. It’s what pushes us the hardest to reach higher and deeper.

The believer might be sitting at home polishing a “proof of God” trophy while the skeptic is still questioning, seeking, and exploring the deepest continued on page 9

Beit

Rabbi

562.715.0888 duets@icloud.com www.beithalev.com

Beth David 6100 Hefley St. Westminster, CA 92683

Rabbi Nancy Myers 714.892.6623 tbdavid@templebethdavid.org www.templebethdavid.org

Chabad of LosAlamitos &Cypress 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/ Congregation Adat Israel 5052 Warner Ave. Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Rabbi Aron David Berkowitz 714.846.2285 info@chabadhb.com www.chabadhb.com

Congregation Lubavitch 3981 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90807

Rabbi Yitzchok

562.596.1681 yitzyg@aol.com

www.tbslb.org Temple

Temple

Rabbi Shmuel Marcus

Rabbi Shmuel Marcus | Chabad of Los Alamitos

Katie Shovers

Karon Shovers | Daughter

Katie Shovers, aged 90 years old, died peacefully in Santa Barbara, California on April 3, 2024. Katie was born in Singapore in 1933, to Moselle and Sassoon Elisha, where she was educated, and later moved to Australia and India, before immigrating to the United States at the age of 28.

She lived in Long Beach for over 50 years. Katie was a thoughtful, dedicated, and loving mother and grandmother, who always put the needs of others ahead of her own. In addition to being a mother, she worked for 25 years as an administrator in a dental office, while also donating her time to the Hadassah Chapter of Long Beach and volunteering for Jewish Family Services.

She enjoyed gardening, baking, singing, and dancing. She regularly attended programs, dance, and singing classes at the Alpert Jewish Community Center in Long Beach, which brought her great joy and happiness.

In recent years, when Katie’s Alzheimer’s disease progressed, she moved to Santa Barbara to be closer to her daughter Jackie. Katie will always be remembered for her love of family and is survived by her partner, Aaron Shovers, siblings Rita and Saul, daughters Karon and Jackie (along with their husbands Michael and Steven, respectively), and grandchildren Benjamin, Fiona, and Marcel.

Please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Organization, which provides invaluable resources to families grappling with this horrible and tragic disease.

An Open Letter to Skeptics

continued from page 8

unknowable parts of the Creator, and a wonderful Divine story continues.

For me, the invisible and intangible things in life made me discover what rooftop champagne tastes like in Italy. And it’s Divine.

Rabbi Shmuel and his wife Bluma Marcus run the Los Al Hebrew High and lead Chabad in Los Alamitos. This essay was published in Elevator Pitches for God: 70 One-Page Essays by Thought Leaders On Why They Believe. You can reach Rabbi Marcus at www.ChabadLosAl.com

JFNA Israel Emergency Campaign

continued from page 5

While our hearts continue to go out to our Israeli brothers and sisters as the trauma continues with ongoing attacks from Hezbollah in the north and Iranian attacks, our assistance continues to help Israel rebuild and heal. Thank you to all of you for your contributions both directly to the emergency campaign, and to our local annual campaign. Together we all make a difference in the world.

Am Yisrael Chai!

Temple Beth Ohr Williger Shabbaton 2024

The Many Faces of the Jewish People

May 17, 7:30 pm ~ May 18, 10:00 am ~ May 19, 4:00 pm

‣ Shabbat services Friday night include Stuart Williger and presentation by Marissa Tiamfook Gee, “Jews of Color and Inclusion”

‣ Saturday Torah Study led by Rabbi Len Muroff, followed by brunch and a presentation by Professor Sarah Abrevaya Stein, Ph.D. “A Sephardic Family’s Story from Ottoman Salonica Over the Arc of a Century”

‣ Sunday presentation by Rabbi Dr. Elisheva Irma Diaz, “Crypto-Jews” plus a performance by Kol Sephardic Choir, followed by dinner.

tbolm.org for more information and to RSVP

Katie Shovers

Temple Beth Ohr 15721 Rosecrans Avenue La Mirada, CA 90638 714-521-6765 office@tbolm.org

June 3 - 7 9 AM - 4 PM

Support children's cancer research with a cup of lemonade! alpertjcc.org

10 YEARS

Happening Weekly

Drop-in Mah Jongg: Mondays, 6 PM | Wednesdays, 1 PM

Barbara Alpert Singing Circle: Wednesdays | 10:30 AM | Free Kabbalah: Wednesdays | 12 PM | Free OLLI Creative Connections: Fridays | 12:30 PM | Free

Happening Monthly

Jessie Butler Senior Luncheon

Wednesday | May 1, 15, June 5, 19 | 12 PM

Senior Shabbat & Luncheon with Temple Israel

Saturday | May 11 | 11 AM | Free Happiness & Humor Group

First Friday of the Month | 11 AM | Free Alpert Classic Film Society

Second Wednesday of the Month | 7 PM | Virtual May 8: Au hasard, Balthazar (1966) June 19: Funny Girl (1968)

SCIC Interfaith Café presented by South Coast Interfaith Council Sunday | May 19 | 3 PM | Free Uniting people of different faiths in conversation over coffee and tea

Francesco Spagnolo: “Jewish Music About Food” with CSULB

Thursday | May 9 | 7 PM | Free

Older American’s Got Talent! with City of Long Beach Parks & Recreation Thursday | May 16 | 6 PM | Free Shining a spotlight on the talented seniors in our community!

Long Beach Pride Parade Sunday | May 19 | 10:30 AM | Free

CSULB OLLI Homeopathy Forum

Tuesday | June 11 | 12 PM | Free Learn about homeopathic medicines in everyday situations.

American Red Cross Blood Drive Tuesday | June 18 | 9 AM - 3 PM

Juneteenth Luncheon

Wednesday | June 19 | 12 PM

Honor Juneteenth with soul food and live music from Chad Bishop

Zena and Pauline Gatov Gallery

May: Trudie Strobel: A Life in Tapestry June: Norm Schulman

Sunday, June 2

• Preparing and packing Kosher meals

• Meet @ AJCC 11:45am for bus to OBKLA

Youth Activities Fitness

Martial Arts with Sensei Mac

Build confidence and self-esteem with Martial Arts! We offer Youth, Parent & Child, Self-Defense, and Mixed Martial Arts classes every week. Sign up today!

Ballroom Dancing with Victory Dance Academy

Discover the magic of Ballroom Dancing! Classes open to children and adults Learn dances like Waltz, Tango, Swing, Salsa, and more!

Pickleball Clinics

Sunday | May 19 | 12:30 PM

Personal Training

New AJCC Members: Enjoy a one-hour fitness assessment and three 30-minute Personal Training sessions, all for $120!

Group Fitness & Aquatics Schedules

Visit alpertjcc.org or the Alpert JCC app for class and pool schedules.

Find out what makes our Fitness community special! Read more on Page 16»

a CIT Counselor-in-Training Grades 8 - 10

Make a gift in honor of your graduate! Contact Kevin Giser at kgiser@jewishlongbeach org for more details

Discover Youth Sports! with First Touch Soccer, Sensei Mac, and BBallers Hoops Indoor Soccer (Futsal) for ages 7 - 12, Martial Arts for ages 3+, and Basketball for ages 3 - 14

PJ Library

Free Jewish storybooks delivered straight to your home every month! Open to Jewish families with children ages 0 - 8. Ages 9 - 12: sign up for PJ Our Way to continue receiving monthly books! Sign up today!

Elsie Bennett ebennett@alpertjcc.org | ext. 1056 Fitness, Wellness & Aquatics

Emily Gould egould@alpertjcc.org | ext. 1091 Children, Youth & Families

My JCC Maccabi Games Experience

Santos Olumese | Team Long Beach 2023 Competitor

My name is Santos Olumese and I had the experience of going to the JCC Maccabi Games® 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I participated in basketball three-onthree tournament representing the Long Beach Alpert Jewish Community Center and brought home the silver medal. Our team was a combination of Tucson, Virginia Beach, and New Jersey. We were undefeated until the last game.

The JCC Maccabi Games® were a great and fun experience. I became good friends with my roommate who was playing baseball, and the host family was wonderful.

To start off the experience, we were dropped off at LAX by our parents and flew as a group to Miami. We went to Miami Beach, and we spent the weekend together with the contingent from Orange County and West Los Angeles for a

Shabbaton. We all got dressed in white for Shabbos and got to hang out at the beach. On Sunday, we volunteered with JCC Cares making packages for kids starting the new school year, practicing the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam and giving back to the community. Our hosts, Mrs. Cheryl and Mr. Howard, were fabulous. They opened their homes to us and even did my laundry because I played every day and the jersey needed to be washed. They watched me play my first and last games. They dropped my roommate and me off, and they made me chocolate chip cookies.

JCC Maccabi® was so cool because there were kids from Ukraine, Israel, South Africa, and all over the United States that participated. It was really neat to see so many Jewish kids together. The Opening Ceremony took place in Amerant Bank Arena, which is home to the Florida Panthers. We walked in representing Long Beach with beach shirts and showed up on the big positron screen. We heard about the Munich massacre and heard from real Olympians. The idea is that we were all

JCC Maccabi 2024 is going to Detroit! Join the Team!

there together as Jewish kids competing but united.

We got to go on excursions like extreme sports with laser tags and mini golf. It allowed us to interact with all the athletes.

The Closing Ceremony had a silent DJ and was really a celebration for five hours including poker tables, mini basketball, foosball tables, food, and fun. It gave me a greater connection to the JCCs around the country and world. I really appreciate all the people that donated so that we could participate in the Maccabi games. It was truly an experience. I am so glad that I got to participate. I think it would be great if other people could attend.

I had always seen the poster of the people in the hallway going towards the swimming pool at the Alpert JCC and I always wondered about what that was. Now I know that the Maccabi Games is an exceptional experience. I have lifelong memories and made lifelong friends. Thank you to the sponsors, staff and volunteers who made it all possible.

Join 3,000 Jewish teen athletes from around the globe at the world’s largest Jewish youth sporting event. The JCC Maccabi Games offers Olympic-style sports competitions, including opening and closing ceremonies; travel; community service; social and cultural events; and opportunities to make friends and memories to last a lifetime. Experience the magic of JCC Maccabi. Find out how you can join our delegation and represent your community in Detroit this summer.

Detroit July 26-August 2, 2024

• Ages 13–16

• Sports: baseball, basketball, dance, ice hockey, girls volleyball, golf, soccer, table tennis, tennis, swimming, star reporter (sports subject to change)

• Olympic-style sports competition

• Opening and closing ceremonies

• JCC Cares community service projects

• Evening social events

Santos Olumese

Please join Rabbi Mirski and TBS Member and Holocaust Survivor, Yetta Kane

@ the Alpert JCC for a Yom HaShoah community observance and candle lighting Sunday, May 5 @ 9:30am

Sunday, June 16th @ 3pm, at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg

TBS SERVICE SCHEDULE

Thursdays at 8am on Zoom

Fridays at 6pm / Saturdays at 10am In-Person & Streaming

Shavu’ot Service Schedule:

Erev Shavu’ot: Tuesday, June 11 @ 7:45pm

Shavu’ot Festival Evening Services, Micha & Maariv Snack and Learning to Follow

Shavu’ot I: Wednesday, June 12 @ 10am

Shavu’ot Festival Morning Services Kiddush Lunch to Follow

Shavu’ot II: Thursday, June 13 @ 10am

Shavu’ot Festival Morning Services with Yizkor

www.facebook.com/tbslb/

TBS Torah School Presents: Kids Shabbat Saturday mornings @ 10am-12:30pm Led by HaMo'Robyn! Join us Saturday mornings for learning and fun!

Beginners Biblical Hebrew class with Rabbi Mirski Tuesdays @ 7pm

Adult Learning Talmud class with Rabbi Mirski Thursdays @ 7pm

Tapestry exhibit honors life, freedom, Shoah

Jewish Long Beach Staff

The Gatov Gallery at the Alpert JCC is honored to present Trudie Strobel: A Life in Tapestry, on display now through May 24. Trudie Strobel, artist and Holocaust survivor, was also the keynote speaker at the Yom HaShoah Community Observance at the Alpert JCC on May 5, 2024. Strobel is a celebrated artist whose artwork captures vivid scenes with needle and thread. Her stunning tapestries have been on display in various museums and synagogues. Her works depict family members, role models, Jewish symbols and relics, nature, and her experience during the Holocaust.

Strobel was placed in a Labor Camp as a child with her mother, Masha. Her mother’s talent as a seamstress saved their lives and bought them enough time to see Liberations. Her artwork began as a way to heal from the traumas of her past. After surviving the Holocaust, Strobel wanted to forget the atrocities she experienced as a child prisoner of

the Nazis. In her late forties, however, all the years of suppressed memory came rushing back and sent her into an almost catatonic depression. A therapist suggested that she draw if she could not speak. Strobel instead picked a needle and thread and began to tell her stories stitch by stitch. For Trudie, embroidery is also a way to connect to her Jewish heritage. “God told Abraham how the hem of his robes should be stitched with a border,” she explained. Her work employs ancient Jewish Yemenite techniques and stitches, each piece woven with a unique history and context.

The different techniques Trudie employs in her work hold different meanings. The ancient Jewish Yemenite stitching technique pays homage to Jewish text. The methodical, repetitive needlepoint techniques observed in some of her Holocaust-related work reflect the process of dehumanization she endured. Her favorite works are her freehand

embroidery, with vibrant threading and detailed beadwork.

One such piece originated from the displacement camp she and Masha took refuge in after their liberation in 1945. In a discussion with Dana SchneiderChanzit, Director of Jewish Life & Culture for Jewish Long Beach, Trudie recalled being gifted a package of arts and crafts supplies by local Red Cross volunteers, which had included a set of colorful beads. “Look, Mama! Look at all these beautiful beads,” Trudie retold. Masha was moved by Trudie’s excitement, and willingly tore a piece of her skirt for Trudie to stitch the beads into. Eventually, those beads became the piece titled Trudie’s Goose, depicting a goose in flight, which she explained represents honor, resilience, and nostalgia for her childhood home.

This deeply moving, one-of-a-kind exhibit is not to be missed. The Gatov Gallery is open to the public seven days a week during Alpert JCC business hours.

Honoring Impact at the Hebrew Academy Visionary Awards

In an elegantly set home, the warmth of a Shabbat celebration unfolds. A young child enters the limelight, sharing insights on the week’s Torah portion. Cheers fill the room, a testament to the hosts’ commitment to making every voice heard, a tradition that has nurtured inclusivity and warmth across the community for years.

In a middle school classroom bathed in sunlight, a lively discussion springs from a girl’s thoughtful question about the Torah’s text. The cheers that greet her insight underscore a culture of curiosity and learning meticulously fostered by a dedicated teacher. Each cheer builds upon the last, strengthening community bonds and the thirst for knowledge.

Time marches on, and at a local shul in Orange County, the moment arrives for a Bar Mitzvah boy to stand confidently at the bimah. His clear and assured voice earns heartfelt cheers from the congregation, celebrating his rite of passage and the mentorship that guided

him to this point. This shared achievement adds another layer to the rich narrative of support that characterizes the Hebrew Academy community.

These moments, each marked by individual celebrations and encouragement, lead us to a grand crescendo with a standing ovation filling a beautiful hall. In this space, the thunderous applause isn’t just for the milestones reached; it’s the collective acknowledgment of a couple who have been the quiet force behind this nurturing community. Their lifetime of promoting values, compassion, education, and inclusivity is in the spotlight.

Rabbi Peretz and Mrs. Rishi Greenwald exemplify this dedication and passion for Jewish education. Growing up as children of worldrenowned teachers and educators, they inherited a profound commitment to these principles. Peretz, hailing from Kfar Chabad, Israel, and Rishi, from Brooklyn, New York, were steeped in Chabad traditions and values from an early age. Inspired by the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s unwavering commitment, they have carried this legacy forward with unparalleled zeal.

Since their marriage in 1980 and subsequent move to Long Beach, California, the Greenwalds have been pillars of the Hebrew Academy, touching lives through their teachings and personal interactions. After a 15-year tenure teaching 2nd grade, Rabbi Greenwald transitioned to Director of Development, whereas Mrs. Rishi Greenwald passionately teaches in the middle school for over 40 years. Their dedication to

Jewish education and its transformative power has left an indelible mark on countless students, instilling a love for Torah and Jewish identity.

This year, on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, the community gathered for the Hebrew Academy Visionary Awards in celebration and in a shared commitment to a vision that the Greenwalds have championed for over four decades—a commitment to Jewish education. Families, friends, alumni and educators stood united by the Greenwalds’ impact. Their seven children, each actively engaged in Jewish outreach and philanthropy, and 27 grandchildren are living testaments to the depth of their influence. This legacy extends well beyond the confines of Orange County and was not merely a pause to honor past achievements; it marked a reinvigoration of their commitment to ensure that their path continues to inspire.

The promise made that evening, under the glow of chandeliers and amidst heartfelt cheers, was to carry forward this mission. It’s a promise to keep the essence of Jewish learning and community alive.

The journey inspired by Rabbi and Mrs. Greenwald’s dedication is far from over. It is a renewed call to action, an inspiration to build on their indelible legacy, and a vision of a future where the principles of faith, education, and unity continue to flourish. Together, we step into tomorrow, motivated by their example, to keep the spirit of Jewish education vibrant and accessible for all.

Discover the Hebrew Academy, where education meets values in a nurturing community.

Join us for a journey of learning, inclusivity, and personal development. www.HACDS.org/Discover

Rochie Popack | Hebrew Academy

Rabbi and Mrs. Greenwald

The Hebrew Academy Annual Visionary Awards Dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Interview with Billy Banks® regarding his March 16-17, 2024 visit

Melanie Smuck | Fitness Instructor

I am sitting here with Billy Blanks®, the creator of the revolutionary workout, Tae Bo® Fitness. Billy came to the Alpert JCC (AJCC) in March to run a Basic and Advanced Certification course, as well as teach two live classes for our members and the public.

Billy, I understand you’ve been running your certification courses online since the pandemic. Why was this certification camp at the J so special for you?

Running these certification courses at the AJCC was incredibly special for me; it was the first time since before the pandemic that I have been able to bring my Tae Bo® Nation instructors together in person here in the U.S. There is something so powerful about us all being in a room together, joining our energy, hearts, and passion for helping others.

In addition to this – being able to do this

at the AJCC was especially powerful – we are experiencing a time in this world that is filled with discourse, and we were able to bring people together from all parts of the world with different backgrounds and beliefs because the AJCC is such an accepting environment. It was extraordinary to see such unity amidst the world’s trials.

What was the energy like? From the campers and from the students who came to take your class?

The energy was amazing! The J is anointed to help people live a better and stronger life; when you walk into the J you immediately feel the love in the building. When you feel that kind of love and acceptance, it empowers you to let your guard down and learn.

Why is Tae Bo® Fitness such a powerful tool in life?

To me, Tae Bo® is a powerful tool

because it works on you from the inside out instead of the outside in. It taps into your mind and will first – and your physical body has no choice but to change and become more powerful along with your mind and will.

Who can take a Tae Bo® Fitness class? Tae Bo® Fitness can be taken by anyone! I like to say from a grandmother to a toddler, anyone can do the workout. From someone working out for the first time, to an athlete, Tae Bo® can work for everyone. Start where you are, let Tae Bo® take you where you want to go.

Would you like to come back and visit AJCC again?

I would love to! I am very excited to come back and do this again next year – and I think it will be even bigger and better! I can’t wait!

Melanie Smuck With the J since 2023

Uniting and Activating Participation Across our Entire Community

Jewish Long Beach Gordon Lentzner Community Impact Grants serve a

Vicki Scherwin, Ph.D. | Chair, Jewish Long Beach

Jewish Long Beach is thrilled to be funding 17 grants this year, totaling $236,840 which will be distributed to 15 organizations and their collaborators.

This year’s Gordon Lentzner Community Impact Grants Request for Proposals (RFP) was crafted based on Jewish Long Beach’s newly ratified strategic plan and, in particular, on the strategic aspiration: Jewish Long Beach will unite and activate participation across our entire community.

In addition, we focused on supporting programming that could help Jewish Long Beach extend its impact throughout our service area, by utilizing the skills, talents, connections, and resources of other agencies in the community.

Grants Committee

The table below describes each element of the strategic aspiration and lists programs granted funding in this year’s grant cycle where they align with each piece of this aspiration.

Organizations could apply for individual grants of up to $20,0000 or collaborative grants of up to $40,000.

Applications were submitted online and then reviewed by the Grants committee in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the 2024 Gordon Lentzner Community Impact Grants Request for Proposals (RFP), and then approved by the Jewish Long Beach board of directors. At the completion of the granting period, grant recipients will submit reports detailing the impact of their programs (i.e., how

many community members served, new participants reached, new forms of engagement uncovered) and also lessons learned in terms of success and challenges.

If you are part of an organization, or are familiar with an organization whose goals, programs, or dreams align with mission, vision, and strategic aspiration of Jewish Long Beach, please consider applying next year. The granting process will begin in the fall of 2024.

Israel Long Beach (w/ Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills, Congregation Shir Ha-Ma'a lot

See What’s Happening in Your Community

Beth David

Thursday, May 16, 12:00 pm Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Myers

Sunday May 19, 8:00 am Blood Drive

Contact Cathy Neiderman for reservations and details; cathbowls@gmail.com

Learning About Israel

Thursdays May 30 - June 20, 12:00 pm-1:30 pm

Taught by Rabbi Nancy Myers

Thursday, May 30, Ancient Israel to 1948

Thursday, June 6, 1948 - 1967

Thursday, June 13, 1967 - 2020 Thursday, June 20, Oct. 7, 2023, Present Day & Dilemmas

Temple members free and non-members $36

NCJW Greater Long Beach & West Orange County

Wednesday, May 8 on Zoom 9:00 am-12:00 pm Lobby Day

Learn from the experts, join a Zoom webinar to hear about our priority bills and budget asks; learn how to lobby.

Wednesday, May 15, in person 9:00 am-5:00 pm

Our voices are crucial! Advocacy at the State Capitol with your NCJW sisters. Meet your district legislators in Sacramento. Join an exciting rally to End Childhood Poverty. Registration: NCJW California Lobby Day, May 8 and 15, 2024 Email advocacy@ncjwlongbeach.org to learn more. Airfare stipends available

Get Out The Vote: Help write postcards and letters at your leisure. Email Deb Lelchuk at advocacy@ncjwlongbeach.org. Get involved now!

Sunday, June 2, 11:00 am-2:00 pm CHARTER DAY

At Old Ranch Country Club honoring Deborah Goldfarb and installing our new officers. The cost of the luncheon is $75. See ad on page 5.

Thursday, June 20

Field Trip to the Hilbert Museum of Art at Chapman University

Meet at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus at 10:00 am, departure at 10:15 am for an 11:30 am tour. Lunch afterward.

Movie Nights

Thursday, May 23, 6:45 pm-9:00 pm

Movie in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Go to the website for

the movie and registration. Location to be announced.

Thursday, June 27, 6;45 pm-9:00 pm

“My Name is Pauli Murray” (Pride Month) viewing and discussion. Location to be announced upon registration.

Coming Attraction

State Senator Lena Gonzales at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus, evening presentation. See our website for the date and time.

Registration is requested for all programs at www.ncjwlongbeach.org or call 657.235.2511.

Orange County Jewish Genealogical Society (OCJGS)

Sunday, May 19, 10:00 am on Zoom

Avrohom Krauss: Jewish Name Changes

Sunday, June 23, 0:00 am on Zoom

Vera Miller: Taking on Ukrainian Genealogy in the 21st Century

Register at www.ocjgs.org

Temple Beth Shalom

Sunday, May 5, 9:30 am

Please join Rabbi Mirski & TBS member & Holocaust Survivor, Yetta Kane, at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus for a Yom HaShoah Community Observance and candle lighting.

Tuesday, June 4, 7 pm

Special Israel-themed Beginners Biblical Hebrew class with Rabbi Mirski in honor of Yom Yerushalayim

Thursday, June 6, 7 pm

Special Israel-themed Talmud class with Rabbi Mirski in honor of Yom Yerushalayim

Shavu’ot Service schedule:

Erev Shavu’ot, Tuesday, June 11, 7:45 pm

Shavu’ot Festival Evening Services, Mincha & Maariv

Shavu’ot I, Wednesday, June 12, 10:00 am

Shavu’ot Festival Morning Services

Shavu’ot II, Thursday, June 13, 10:00 am

Shavu’ot Festival Morning Services with Yizkor

Saturdays, 10:00 am-12:00 pm

Kids Shabbat

Bring your kids Saturday mornings for a special kids Shabbat service, learning, and fun!

Service led by HaMo’ Robyn. This program is sponsored in part by a generous gift from Congregation Shir Chadash.

Sunday, June 16, 3 pm

Russian-Speaking Community Concert at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus

This program is sponsored by the Gordon Lentzner Community Impact Grant

For adult learning classes please see our website calendar.

For more information and to register for events please call 562.426.6413 or visit tbslb.org

Making a Tribute

Making a tribute is a thoughtful way to celebrate a friend, family member, teacher, milestone, or special occasion. A tribute gift is also a heartfelt way to acknowledge the passing of a loved one. We will send a card to the person you are honoring, or to the family of the person being remembered, letting them know of your thoughtfulness and generosity. A list of all tributes will be published in the next Jewish Long Beach Chronicle, as well as listed on our website. July/August issue tributes are due by June 6, 2024.

Tributes can be directed to support Jessie Butler Senior Meals, Campus Security, financial aid for our Early Childcare Education center, Camp Komaroff scholarships, JCC Maccabi Games, Jewish Life & Culture programs, capital improvement projects, and your favorite program!

FROM JEWISH LONG BEACH BOARD, LEADERSHIP & STAFF

IN MEMORY OF

Jordan Eric Scherwin

Beloved brother & brotherin-law to Todd & Vicki Scherwin

Lance Valt

Beloved husband to Marilyn Valt

Benny Wasserman

Beloved husband to Fern Wasserman

Sherwood (Woody) Libit

Beloved brother & brotherin-law to Gina & Jack Rosenthal

Lois Abrams

Beloved wife to Herb Abrams

Caroline Malmad

Beloved mother to David Malmad

Dr. Harold Seifer

Beloved father to Liz Seifer Schwartz, Phil Seifer, Julia Seifer

Maria Guadalupe Medina

Beloved mother to Jenny Lopez

Bernard Leviton

Beloved uncle to Edie Mino

CHRONICLE THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH

IN MEMORY OF

Harriette Ellis

Beloved mother to Deborah Kaplan-Wyckoff from Sharon Kenigsberg

GENERAL FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Lance Valt

Beloved husband to Marilyn Valt from Sandy & Daryl Phillips from Arlene & Rick Freeman from Linda & Sanford Simmons

Dr. Lewis Rosenberg to Jill Rosenberg from Jessie Butler

Dr. Jim Licht to the Licht Family from Jessie Butler

Sherwood Libit

Beloved brother & brotherin-law to Gina & Jack Rosenthal from Linda & Sanford Simmons from Ellen Goldenberg

Jay Alhadeff

In honor of 25 years of teaching at Temple Israel from Aunt Lea, Joe, Kerri, and the boys

Jackie, Andy & the boys

ANNE LICHT LEADERSHIP FUND

IN MEMORY OF Jim Licht from Sharon & Marty Kenigsberg

GERDA SEIFER YOM HASHOAH FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Dr. Harold Seifer from Sandy Horwitz from Beverly August from Sharon Kenigsberg

JESSIE BUTLER SENIOR MEAL PROGRAM

IN MEMORY OF Lance Valt

Beloved husband & father to Marilyn Valt & family from Susan & Mark Paletz

Dr. Harold Seifer

Beloved father to Lizzie, Julia, & Phil from Janie, Keith, Nan, Brad, & Rich (The Miller Gang)

JEWISH FEDERATIONS OF NORTH AMERICA EMERGENCY ISRAEL RELIEF FUND

IN MEMORY OF Lance Valt

Beloved husband to Marilyn Valt

Beloved father to Jami Messinger from Sharon & Marty Kenigsberg

JOAN & DANIEL LEB FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND

IN HONOR OF Joan Leb

Happy 90th Birthday from Joanne Feldman from Michael & Nancy Leb from Edward Van Boemel from Allan & Cheryl Waterman

For Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC tributes call: 562.426.7601 ext 1314

GENERAL FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Jim Licht from Helene Ansel & Andrew Kincaid

IN HONOR OF

Mary Fink Schneider

Happy Birthday from Ellen Cosmer-Hyman

Renee Simon

Happy Birthday from Sandy Kroll & Ellen Butler

Gerardo Weinstein

Happy 100th Birthday Beloved Uncle from Madeline & Bill Harford

MARCIE BALAN BLAKEY FUND

IN HONOR OF Renee Simon

Happy Birthday from Sandy Horwitz

IN MEMORY OF Marcie Balan Blakey from Molly Rose

RACE WITH A VIEW FUND

IN HONOR OF

Binnie & Jack Berro from Gael & Glenn Libby

REFUGEE FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Hyman & Jennie Berman from Howard Gordon

For JFCS tributes call: 562.427.7916

We Mourn The Loss Of...

Jordan Eric Scherwin

Lance Valt

Tila Carrol

Benny Wasserman

Herb Abrams

Lois Abrams

Caroline Malmad

Charlotte Maletz

Dr. Harold Seifer

Maria Guadalupe Medina

Katie Shovers

Bernard Leviton

Gayle Nachlis

Rabbi David Klatzker

Sherwood (Woody) Libit

May their memory be a blessing.

Please email us at chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org if you know of someone who has recently passed and would like them to be recognized.

MAZEL TOV

Mazel Tov to Temple Beth Shalom members, Elena & Levi Lehman, who were married at Temple Beth Shalom on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

MAZEL

TOV

Mazel Tov to Sara and Richard Brown on the birth of their daughter Ada Louise Brown.

JFCS

The Jewish Community Chronicle

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus

3801 E. Willow Street, Long Beach, CA 90815

Postperson please deliver by 5/10/24

Change Service Requested

TEMPLE ISRAEL LONG BEACH

JOIN OUR TEMPLE FAMILY

“We strive for Temple Israel to be like Abraham’s tent, open on all sides, welcoming to all. In keeping with that philosophy, everyone who wishes to be a supporting member of our community is welcome, regardless of the amount they are able to contribute.”

Temple Israel Board of Directors

NEW MEMBERSHIP YEAR BEGINS JULY 1, 2024

Through your involvement in our Temple Israel Community, you will...

- Experience what it is to be part of a multi-generational family

- Discover what it is to participate in a vibrant center for life-long Jewish learning

- Teach your children the importance of community, Jewish culture, and spirituality

For information about how you can join our community, please contact the Temple Office (562) 434-0996 or email info@tilb.org

CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM

A PANEL DISCUSSION

FEATURING

Judge Dan Lowenthal and

Doctoral Student Taryn Williams

Moderator: Adolfo Guzman-Lopez

CA Public Radio Reporter

Thursday, May 16 at 7:00 pm

Join us for an important and fascinating conversation about Criminal Justice Reform from the perspective of fighters for social justice. RSVP to info@tilb.org

PANEL DISCUSSION ABOUT IDENTITY

TIKKUN LEIL SHAVUOT

Panelists:

Rabbi Scott Fox

Michael Morgan Operations Manager, The Center and Sheri Sinaga Temple Israel Board Member

Tuesday, June 11 at 8:00 pm

Join us for a conversation about Jewish identity and how it impacts the other identities we hold dear. The evening will begin with a panel discussion about the intersection of LGBTQ+ and Jewish identities, in partnership with The Center Long Beach. RSVP to info@tilb.org