Jewish Community Chronicle Nov/Dec 2022

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791 Phone: 562.426.7601 | FAX: 562.424.3915

jewishlongbeach.org jewishlongbeach.org

Jewish Long Beach is a 501(c)3 with tax I.D. 95-1647830

Edie Brodsky/Dr. Barry Zamost Co-Presidents, Board of Directors

Zach Benjamin Chief Executive Officer

Kevin Giser Chief Operating and Development Officer

Susan Paletz Director of Fund & Community Development

Rachel Roberts Manager of Marketing & Leadership Engagement

Yolanda Placencio Editor

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

Ad & Copy deadline for Jan/Feb 2023 issue: November 11, 2022

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 ©2022 Jewish Long Beach All Rights Reserved.

/jewishlongbeach @jewishlongbeach

Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Member

This Season, Let’s Choose Joy

Zach Benjamin | Chief Executive Officer, Jewish Long Beach

It seems that each season of Jewish celebration coincides with observances of various non-Jewish religious and secular traditions. As we transition away from the High Holy Days, for instance, many throughout the Western world – and especially the youngest among us – look forward to Halloween, with Thanksgiving in the United States following shortly thereafter. Similarly, the timelines of Jewish and Christian texts overlap, causing Passover to often coincide with Easter. Of course, the highest profile example of this confluence of cultures occurs each December, when a wide variety of holidays take place throughout an intensive month of celebration.

Zach Benjamin

As Jews living in Diaspora, we continuously seek the balance between preservation of our

For instance, most of us raised in culturally Jewish, less religiously observant households count among our fondest childhood memories the annual tradition of donning a Halloween costume and walking our neighborhoods in search of vast quantities of sweet treats that, in many cases, would last us well into January and beyond. Yes, Halloween’s roots run deep through ancient Pagan traditions and other distinctly non-Jewish ritual sources. However, I would argue that, in 21st-century United States, Halloween is no more at odds with Jewish values than is Thanksgiving, which Americans of all religious and cultural backgrounds rightly embrace, and which at its inception centuries ago certainly drew inspiration from Christian texts and Native American observances.

The question of to what extent, if any, we might embrace “Christmas culture” is a trickier one. Each year, this “December dilemma” compels

wrong. They simply represent two differing, nuanced philosophies in a Diaspora setting with space enough for a vast spectrum of religious observance and interpretation. Jewish Long Beach, as the agency fulfilling the functions of both a JCC and Jewish federation, serves the broadest possible Jewish population within the 15 municipalities that comprise our catchment area. Indeed, Orthodox prayer and religious school take place under our roof, as do yoga classes and basketball clinics. Those walking our halls in December will notice that the imagery we evoke in our spaces is almost exclusively inspired by Hanukkah. However, visitors to our campus will also hear our members and guests greeting each other with a wide variety of holiday wishes, which is befitting the remarkable diversity of those who use our facility.

This season, as always, my family will light the Hanukkiah, and our personal observances

Jewish traditions and adoption of local ones. I have previously written in this space and others that adaptation is as integral to our Jewish DNA as the covenant of brit milah (bris) or the Yom Kippur fast. The Jews of Ming- and Qing-era China, for instance, designed the physical spaces of their sanctuaries to resemble local Confucian temples, in addition to adopting other Chinese cultural characteristics, thus ingratiating themselves with local communities and earning the trust of dynastic authorities. Their traditions and practices, however, remained quintessentially Jewish, and so their Jewish community survived for centuries among the Confucian majority.

Similarly, the thriving B’nai Israel Jews of Mumbai, as well as the B’nai Menashe of Northeast India lead unmistakably Jewish lives, and yet they are also distinctly Indian in their dress, language, and other day-to-day practices.

The Jewish Diaspora communities that have found success among majority cultures with longer histories than our American one have long embraced the need to adapt in order to survive. As Jewish Americans, we are engaged in robust deliberation over exactly how we define and navigate our own tactical adaptations.

us to practice intentionality in how we and our children experience this festive time of year. Hanukkah is by no means the Jewish Christmas. While it is certainly an important milestone on the Hebrew calendar, it is not nearly as central to the Jewish historical and religious canon as Christmas is to Christianity. Nonetheless, Hanukkah’s elevation to the primary tier of highly commercialized December holidays has, at least in the Western world, created among Jews the impression that we occupy a seat at the proverbial holiday table. Thus, our children, too, deserve to experience the season without fretting that the joy and goodwill of the holidays might stand at odds with their Jewish identity.

That said, no secular school, workplace, or other non-religious institution should force any person to participate in any tradition that is inconsistent with her or his values or identity. This is where the line must remain between inclusion and assimilation. In many cases, the exact location and definition of that boundary is deeply personal, varying from family to family and individual to individual. However, in every case, it must be respected.

The Orthodox and liberal Jewish perspectives differ slightly on this topic, and neither is

will remain firmly within the traditional Jewish experience. This is a boundary that we choose to set for ourselves in service to ensuring that our Jewish character remains distinctive. However, I also look forward to the season elevating my family’s and my spirit with the buoyancy of so many coinciding celebrations. I am eager to wish our Christian friends, neighbors, and colleagues a merry Christmas, and I hope that this special time is meaningful and memorable for all.

All of us at Jewish Long Beach and the AJCC wish you and yours a happy Hanukkah and a joyful holiday season, however you choose to experience it.

Our children deserve to experience the season without fretting that the joy and goodwill of the holidays might stand at odds with their Jewish identity.

A chorus of voices, joining in UNISON

Sheryl Musicant Stewart | Manager of Marketing & Leadership Engagement

Among the many lessons we’ve learned over the past two and a half years, we’ve certainly been reminded to prioritize what is important. I myself have a renewed appreciation for the ability to gather with friends and family. Without a doubt, community life, no matter one’s age, has proven to be an essential part of our mental and physical health, personal enjoyment, and overall sense of well being. Being together with others we care about makes our hearts sing.

Providing a place where thousands of hearts can come together to “sing” each year has been the core mission for the Alpert Jewish Community Center (AJCC) and Jewish Long Beach since 1948. Join friends, family and neighbors at UNISON on Sunday, November 13 at 5:00 p.m. as we celebrate the coming together of the AJCC and Jewish Long Beach and honor Jessie Butler and Gordon Lentzer, both pillars in our community. This fun, festive evening will take place throughout the AJCC, refreshing life memories and reminding us of Jewish Long Beach’s impact over the past seven and a half decades to help shape, define, strengthen, and enhance our greater Long Beach community, with familiar tunes that echo through the generations.

Maria Osorio and her family moved back to California from New York City, and then came to the AJCC for the ECE program. Her son, Jonás Lamb, attended preschool, as well as summer camp, swim lessons and martial arts classes. Now 15, he is still friends with several of his ECE classmates, and Maria and her husband, Chris, gather often with families they met there.

Shelley and Tom Carl sent their son Matthew to preschool at the J. Today, Matthew, 44, is a rabbi in New York, and remains dear friends with Seth Linden, Charles Brodsky and Todd Kaplan. The Carls remain best friends with the parents of

those boys, all of whom came to the J to establish a strong foundation for their young kids, only to find that and so much more.

Binnie Berro’s mom was active in the Jewish community and sought to build social connections for the pre-teens and teens who didn’t get to meet many Jewish kids. Binnie was going to participate, whether she liked it or not. Now in her 80s, Binnie recalls being about 12 and not wanting to go into the old Long Beach JCC on Pacific Avenue until her mother pushed her out of the car. Today, Binnie and Jack are overjoyed that two of their great-grandchildren, Abby and Jacob Krugman, are now students in the ECE.

Jewish Long Beach strives to preserve Jewish life and strengthen Jewish advocacy, while also providing assistance to people in need and at risk, regardless of their religion or background. The agency connects those who want to help with those who need it most, distributing impact grants for programs throughout the community. For example, they pivoted quickly, modifying and expediting their grant process to support our community through a COVID-19 Relief Fund. Tens of thousands of dollars were disbursed, thoughtfully and strategically, via grocery gift cards for vulnerable families in need and learning tools for school-age kids, among other support.

Coming together in UNISON on November 13 will remind us that it takes more than one voice to ensure that Jewish Long Beach and the AJCC continue to build life memories and a strong support system for generations to come. Now it is time to consider how you will lend your own voice and contribute to the future of our beautiful community songbook.

Shabbat and holiday celebrations give ECE families an opportunity to connect with Jewish culture

Our ECE Art Pavilion promotes creativity and sustainability through meaningful arts based education

Aqua fitness classes & Bluefin Prep Swim Team keep our community active and fit

Camp Komaroff & KESHER After School Enrichment develop kids’ character, compassion and citizenship

At

TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

A Progressive Culinary Experience

Special Honorees: Jessie Butler & Gordon Lentzner

Building Community through our physical spaces

Refreshing the Mary Alpert Pool to match the growing needs of our young families, seniors, and entire community. The pool is a special place for our community, where people learn to swim, families gather on summer nights, daily exercise classes keep us active and fit, and countless memories are made.

Sustaining Jewish Continuity with Children, Youth and Family Financial Aid

These financial aid resources will benefit our Early Childhood Education center, KESHER Afterschool Enrichment, Camp Komaroff, and all Youth programming, to help welcome more families to our center.

Caring for our neighbors through our Impact Grants

Continuing in our grant making tradition of caring for the vulnerable, educating and engaging the next generation, and investing in community needs by supporting local nonprofit organizations. To learn more and support, please contact Kevin Giser, Chief Operating & Development Officer at kgiser@jewishlongbeach.org

the

Creating our Futures Together

Susan Paletz | Director of Fund & Community Development

The Alpert JCC & Jewish Long Beach Women’s Weekend returns to the Brandeis Bardin Campus January 20-22, 2023

All women ages 18+ are invited to an amazing weekend celebrating Judaism, women, spirituality, learning, and friendship. This year’s retreat is highlighted by interactive and creative Shabbat services led by Cantor Kelly Cooper. The weekend will feature workshops and activities including hiking, yoga, crafts, cooking, Pickleball, horseback riding (additional fee), and discussion groups. Limited spaces are available, so sign up now to not miss this wonderful experience.

The weekend includes a two-night stay in motel-style cottages, five Kosher meals, snacks, and a Saturday night party. Each participant will receive a welcome bag with a Women’s Weekend 2023 commemorative t-shirt. Please contact Susan Paletz for more information and to register at spaletz@alpertjcc.org

Beit HaLev P.O. Box 2279 Seal Beach, CA 90740

Rabbi Galit Levy-Slater 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 Los Alamitos & 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 Newman 562.596.1681 yitzyg@aol.com

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 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

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

Shul By The Shore 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, California 90815

Rabbi Abba Perelmuter 562.621.9828 rabbi@shulbytheshore.org www.shulbytheshore.org

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

Temple Beth Shalom 3635 Elm Avenue Long Beach, CA 90807

Rabbi David Cantor 562.426.6413 office@tbslb.org www.tbslb.org

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 10629 Lakewood Boulevard Downey, CA 90241

Rabbi Daniel Mehlman 562.861.9276

Conservative Independent Orthodox Reform

Women’s Philanthropy Celebration - Chanukah 2022

Susan Paletz | Director of Fund & Community Development

Women’s Philanthropy Celebrations-Chanukah 2022

Join us on Thursday, December 22 at 6:00 pm at the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus to celebrate Chanukah with Jewish Long Beach’s Women’s Philanthropy. Friends connect with friends and meet new friends. Spend time visiting while enjoying wine, latkes, Mediterranean cuisine, and indulge in delectable Chanukah desserts. Of course, a Women’s Philanthropy event is also an opportunity to do a mitzvah, please bring a nonperishable food item to donate to the Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) food pantry for Long Beach residents in need.

Chanukah Dinner $18 per person. Looking forward to seeing you at the event Linda Waltzman & Susan Paletz. Please RSVP to cdanziger@alpertjcc.org or call 562.426.7601 ext. 1414

Dignity Project sponsored by Women’s Philanthropy

The Dignity Project is growing and moving forward. On October 20, volunteers from Jewish Long Beach and Women’s Philanthropy gathered to pack over one hundred Dignity Bags that we delivered to the Long Beach School district. The bags will be given to girls and teens in need. The bags contained personal hygiene products. Each month, hundreds of girls and teens miss school because they are not able to afford personal products. The Dignity Project aims to prevent this from happening to the young women in our community.

If you are interested in donating to the Dignity Project, please contact Susan Paletz, Director of Fund & Community Development at spaletz@alpertjcc.org

Thank you!Thank you!

Your support of Long Beach Gives raised $6,800 benefitting the Jewish Long Beach & Alpert JCC Senior Meal Delivery program. This will provide 800 hot, healthy lunches to senior adults in our community, at no cost to them.

Support the Senior Meal Delivery Program: alpertjcc.org/donate

“Oh Chanukah - Oh Chanukah Lenore “Bubbe” Roth | Alpert JCC ECE Judaica Specialist

The literal meaning of Chanukah is Dedication. This festive Jewish holiday is celebrated for 8 nights. During this time we retell the story of Judea and his brave army.

The Maccabees.

The story takes place in town of Modin, in the country of Syria. It was there that King Antiochus forbid the Jews to worship God and also forbid them from practicing Jewish rituals and customs. His armies kept a close eye on the Jews in Modin, to make sure the Jews were following King Antiochus’ rules. It was then that Judea Maccabee decided that the Jews were not going to be oppressed anymore.

When they knew it was safe the Jewish people went into the Temple, only to find it destroyed by the Syrian Army. They set about to clean and reclaim the Temple. BUT--- they needed oil. Enough oil to last long enough to clean the Temple and repair the damages that were done.

They found ONE small oil jug. That oil was only enough to last one night…. After praying to God for help and guidance, the small vessel of oil burned for 8 days and 8 nights.

During Chanukah we remember the brave Maccabees who bravely fought the Syrian army to ensure that religious freedoms were not taken away from the Israelites.

With

and supreme faith in God, Judea and his Maccabees fought the Syrian Army and won.

in

May all of you be blessed with a happy, safe and healthy Chanukah.

Bubbe Roth

Happy Chanukah!

game to win

THURSDAY | DEC 15 | 7 PM

LONG BEACH BEER LAB

A Chanukah celebration for the young and the young-at-heart! Join us for an evening of craft beer, Kosher eats, and live music.

alpertjcc.org

Down

Candles are placed in this

Festival of Lights

We celebrate their victory and liberation

Chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil

You win everything in the spin game

We light eight of these

In Partnership with Shul by the Shore

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CHANUKAH CHANUKAH CELEBRATION CELEBRATION

SUNDAY | DEC 18 | 4 PM

2ND & PCH SHOPPING CENTER

Celebrate the first might of Chankuah as we light the giant menorah! Enjoy beautiful views, music, dancing, games, and more! Free and open to all!

Middle School Transitions: A Milestone in Success

Dr. Bryn Harari | Principal

It was a familiar scene at Hebrew Academy as they welcomed students back to campus. The cohort of first-time middle schoolers huddled together – some talking loudly with anticipation, others quietly observing as all students were quickly swept into a supportive, nurturing 6th-grade learning environment.

Mixed emotions are typical. Students undergo tremendous growth and change between elementary and middle school – physically, emotionally, and cognitively. “My son, Josh, was a little anxious and also excited about starting 6th grade,” says Karen Berger, who has three children at Hebrew Academy and is also the Admissions Director. “He’s looking forward to having more independence and challenging school work but is also a little wary of the new responsibilities. But, after the first few weeks, he has settled in and is enjoying it.”

Educators and parents play a crucial role in helping students make a successful transition to middle school and beyond.

Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle.

Successful students eat nutritious food, limit sugar, and artificial flavors, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, limit screen time, and get plenty of sleep. Developing healthy habits equips students to handle stress and anxiety more confidently and ensures they have the energy to engage fully in their learning.

Our middle school students receive coaching in all major sports. The confidence, motivation, and sense of accomplishment translate beyond the field, contributing to their wellbeing and empowering them to set and achieve ambitious goals.

Challenge Them to Set and Reach Goals.

Students who thrive in middle school set and strive toward ambitious goals for short- and long-term learning and life. When motivated to achieve their academic and personal goals, students have better attendance, pay more attention, actively participate in class, and complete assignments on time.

Empower Them to Make Good Choices.

The Hebrew Academy incorporates design and project-based learning to create meaningful opportunities. Using algebraic expressions to create Chanukah drawings and graphs, students see the practical application of math.

Middle School is the right time for parents to guide students to take more ownership in making decisions. When we trust and enable students to make good choices and take responsibility for themselves, they gain confidence and independence. In addition, through trial and error, they strengthen time/ resource management and problem-solving skills that help them excel as scholars.

Encourage and Teach Them to Collaborate. Next-generation skills rely heavily on the ability to collaborate and solve problems. By providing opportunities for students to work together, they build social and communication skills and learn to relate well to parents, teachers, classmates, and people with different experiences.

Parents Play a Role, Too.

How the Hebrew Academy Supports Middle School Transition

To help nurture confident, caring, critical thinkers ready to thrive with competitive, next-generation skills, the Hebrew Academy has developed a unique middle school transition program. We have developed our own curriculum explicitly teaching success skills such as time management, problem-solving, and communication well before middle school. We continue to devote weekly time to build these skills in the middle school curriculum. Our 5th-grade teachers collaborate with middle school teachers to provide insight into the individual learning styles of each incoming middle schooler. We partner closely with parents to ensure children progress academically, socially, and emotionally. When needed, we work together to provide targeted support. We provide a sheltered 6th-grade transition. Students have a Homeroom teacher who teaches them three or more daily subjects. This helps them develop a close relationships and requires less transition to different classrooms and teachers throughout the day.

Life and career skills are part of the daily curriculum at the Hebrew Academy. Our Upper School empowers students to share, speak, and hear one another, cultivating empathy and the ability to listen deeply.

“As a parent, I was most worried about Josh’s ability to connect socially and make friends,” explains Karen. “But the 7th graders have made him feel welcome and part of the group. In addition, the older students at Hebrew Academy do a great job mentoring the younger ones.”

The steps we take to ensure our students’ successful start in middle school benefit them throughout their educational journeys. As your partner in your child’s education, we are ready to welcome them into a nurturing, academically challenging, and engaging learning community.

At The Hebrew Academy we believe that children, like ideas, blossom when they are nurtured, respected and encouraged

Inside our small welcoming classrooms, students work alongside devoted teachers who provide personalized instruction and celebrate every accomplishment

Hebrew Academy students engage in community service through the Mitzvah Project, where they have fun and develop a sense of civic and personal responsibility.

Middle Schoolers volunteer at the OC Friendship Circle carnival.

If your student is starting or preparing to transition to middle school, talk with them to see how they’re feeling and invite them to discuss their feelings with you. Emotions can range from excitement to fear or anxiety. Reassure them that their feelings are normal and healthy. Remind them that everything doesn’t have to be perfect for it to be good.

Encourage them to address their concerns or questions with adults at school. It will convey your confidence in them, and teachers understand the major developmental milestones for middle schoolers and can provide you and your student with guidance and support.

‘Tis the Season

Jane Conoley, Ph.D. | President, California State University at Long Beach

“‘Tis the season” as December appears, laden with dozens of religious and cultural observances that vary by religious identity, geographical location, ethnicity, and other characteristics. In our nuclear family, December means Hanukkah and Christmas, but we know those of the Wicca faith are celebrating Yule and our African American brothers and sisters are meditating on the values of Kwanzaa. Our Latinx friends observe Las Posadas, our Pilipino friends celebrate the nine masses of Simbang Gabi, and Catholics treasure Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Our Buddhist colleagues remember Bodhi Day on Rohatsu, when Buddha’s time under the Bodhi Tree resulted in the birth of their path to enlightenment.

There’s a lot happening in this season, although almost all is drowned out by the ubiquitous commercialization of Christmas. This brings me back to our almostannual Hanukkah and Christmas experiences when our three children, their spouses, and five grandchildren gather. Haley, Michael, Declan and Nola’s moms, Samantha Riseman and Liz Plotkin, are Jewish. Jack’s Mom, our daughter Colleen, and her husband Greg, seem vaguely Christian, though they mostly identify with their very progressive political views – which fortunately, for family peace, are pretty generally shared among all the adults. Whew!

Our formula for holidays was established early. We have menorahs to light Hanukkah candles with the shammash, as well as a Christmas tree. We sing Jewish prayers along with the children and their moms, and we buy or prepare traditional treats like chocolates wrapped in gold foil, latkes and jelly doughnuts, and the perhaps not-so-traditional but delicious chocolate-covered matzahs. We give the children small gifts for eight days and have a gift-giving extravaganza on Christmas morning. We hang stockings and play Christmas carols and read the story of the long-burning lamps and the victories of the Maccabees against the Seleucide Empire.

We sometimes talk about the different beliefs that characterize Jewish and Christian thought, including, for example, very different perspectives on the existence of a

heaven, as well as similarities such as Christian confession and the Jewish call to seek forgiveness on Yom Kippur. After all, all the very early Christians were either Jewish or had to become so before being accepted as followers of Christ. We, of course, have attended Bar and Bat Mitzvahs for our two oldest grandchildren and for nieces and nephews of our daughters-in-law. Sadly, we have also attended Jewish funerals, including those of Milt and Judy Riseman. We are always welcome in Jewish spaces.

Some readers may fear that our sequential and overlapping celebrations may undermine the connection our Jewish grandchildren have to their heritage. This has not seemed to happen. Each one strongly identifies as a Jew due, I think, to the good work of their mothers and now a stepmom, Beth, and the cooperation of their dads. They want to know more about their faith/culture and feel bad for me

when I stumble over Hebrew words in children’s books that I read to them. At a Thanksgiving dinner, the now 12-year-old, when asked what he is most thankful for said, “that I’m Jewish.” His Jewish grandmother, Judy Riseman, looked up at Collie and me with some distress, feeling that we may feel affronted, but our hope is that each of our children and grandchildren find their own ways in connecting to a personal and, perhaps shared, spirituality and certainly to all their family roots.

Of course, we recognize that being in a “majority” religion in a particular place contributes to a sanguine attitude that is unlikely to be shared by those in a small minority religion that is often victimized by haters. We have the privilege of not worrying that valued and precious traditions might disappear if not nurtured and protected by every family in our group.

The Conoley family has become wiser, more cosmopolitan, and more accepting by having the opportunity to take part in the important holidays of two religions … and we haven’t even mentioned Easter!

At a Thanksgiving dinner, the now 12-year-old, when asked what he is most thankful for said, “that I’m Jewish.”

2022 Year-End Tax Planning

Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA) | President, California State University at Long Beach

As we approach the end of the year it is helpful to reflect on steps that can be taken to reduce taxes that otherwise would be due.

Key Considerations for Year-End Tax Planning

• Use appreciated assets to make a charitable gift in 2022. As in previous years, gifts of appreciated assets (stock) remain a best practice. Such gifts not only provide a deduction to the donor but also avoid the capital gains tax. Conversely, built-in loss assets generally should be sold (generating a tax loss) with the resulting cash proceeds donated, if desired. Note that, as in previous years, up to $3,000 of capital losses may be used to offset ordinary income.

• Consider donating to a DAF this year for maximum flexibility. If you are considering making a significant donation to charity over time but want a deduction today, consider adding funds to an existing Donor Advised Fund (DAF) or opening a new DAF. It can be especially beneficial to donate appreciated property, because by doing so capital gains taxation with respect to the contributed assets is eliminated.

Israel Philharmonic Orchestra 2022 U.S. Tour Long Beach

In just about three weeks, the highly regarded Israel Philharmonic will embark on a 10-stop tour of the United States, their first since the COVID-19 pandemic.

As Israel’s premier cultural ambassador to the world, the Israel Philharmonic has long had a deep historic connection to the United States, a country they first toured in 1951.

In addition to being their first tour in three years, it will also be their first tour under new Music Director, Lahav Shani. Shani is only the second Music Director of the orchestra after Zubin Mehta – the IPO’s legendary Music Director for 50 years – retired in 2019.

At just 33-years-old, Shani is already astounding audiences as critics alike as one of the youngest directors of a major orchestra and the first Music Director of the Israel Philharmonic born in Israel. He is also the Chief Conductor of the Rotterdam Philharmonic and an accomplished pianist, performing regularly with orchestras around the world.

Danielle Ames Spivak, CEO of American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (AFIPO), is confident that Lahav will charm American audiences. “Lahav is renowned for the enthusiasm and youthful enthusiasm he brings to every performance, and I think audiences throughout Southern California are really going to connect with him,” said Spivak. “He has limitless potential.”

Alongside the performances, AFIPO will be hosting galas in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, and New York where attendees can get to know Lahav and members of the orchestra in a more intimate setting. AFIPO will utilize proceeds from the galas to continue supporting the musical endeavors of the Israel Philharmonic as well as their youth music programs.

At a time when the arts and culture are reemerging in Southern California, the Israel Philharmonic’s tour presents a great opportunity to deepen the connection between the Jewish community in the Greater Los Angeles area and Israel.

“The Israel Philharmonic does not just represent Israelis, it represents Jews all around the world,” said Spivak. “After the challenges of these past few years, the Philharmonic’s tour is perhaps more important than ever, and I’m confident that our community will give the Israel Philharmonic and Lahav Shani a very warm welcome.”

For more information about concert and gala tickets, visit afipo.org.

• Look into an IRA charitable rollover. The IRA charitable rollover is an attractive option because it can help satisfy the minimum distribution requirement without incurring income tax, even if you don’t itemize your deductions.

• Consider accelerating noncharitable gifts. The unified estate/gift credit of $12.06 million is scheduled to automatically reduce to around $6 million beginning with transfers made in 2026. Accordingly, taxpayers who intend to make significant gifts (either during their lifetime or in the form of bequests) may want to consider accelerating some or all those gifts early.

As with any significant tax and charitable planning, it is always advisable to carefully consider potential changes in the context of your complete financial profile and to consult your tax advisor.

Disclaimer: Jewish Long Beach do not provide tax advice. Please consult with your professional advisor before taking any action. If you have any questions or would like to open a Donor Advised Fund, please contact Kevin Giser, Chief Operating & Development officer, at kgiser@jewishlongbeach.org

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, 12:00 pm

Mah Jongg

$5/session, Members play free

First Wednesday of the Month, 7:00 pm

Alpert Classic Film Society — Meets Virtually November Film: Sunset Blvd

December Film: North by Northwest

First Friday of the Month, 10:30 am

Happiness & Humor with Dr. Susan Mathieu

Thursdays, Nov 3, 10, 17, 6:00 – 8:00 pm

Mah Jongg for Beginners

Sunday, Nov 6, 11:00 am – 2:30 pm

Pickleball Clinics

Friday, Nov 11, 11:00 am

Veterans’ Day Commemoration & Jewish War Veterans Exhibit

Monday, Nov 14, Dec 12, 12:00 – 1:30 pm

November Wellness Workshop: Medi-Cal / Medicare December Wellness Workshop: Senior Scams

Wednesday, Nov 23, Dec 21, 12:00 – 2:00 pm

Thanksgiving and Chanukah Meet & Greet

Luncheons: Free to seniors!

Thursday, Dec 1, 7:00 pm

Jewish Long Beach and Alpert JCC Annual Meeting

Monday – Friday, Dec 12 – 16, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Chanukah Vendor Fair

Thursday, Dec 15, 7:00 – 9:00 pm

9th Night: Adults Only Chanukah Mixer at Long Beach Beer Lab

Sunday, Dec 18, 4:00 – 7:00 pm

Chanukah Celebration with Shul by the Shore at 2nd & PCH Shopping Center

Visit alpertjcc.org for more information on all Alpert JCC programs and events

Beth David

Sunday, November 6, 2:00 pm

Real to Reel Truth & Trickery in Courtroom Movies

Dessert will be served

RSVP at sisterhood@templebethdavid.org

Saturday, November 19, 9:00 am

Mind, Body and Spirit Shabbat

Sunday, December 4, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Chanukah Carnival

Everyone is welcome at Beth David’s Chanukah Carnival & Boutique

Free Admission, $10 for unlimited games, special guest; Magician Tom Ogden, vendors, Judaica Shop, bake sale, latkes and so much more.

Saturday, December 10, 7:00 pm

A Chanukah Extravaganza Featuring Fiddler On The Roof Greatest Hits Sing-Along

A live performance with the Beth David Players Dessert will be served RSVP at bethdavidbrotherhood@gmail.com

Friday, December 16, 6:00 pm Hanukkah Dinner and Shabbat Service

NCJW Greater Long Beach & West Orange County

National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW)

Greater Long Beach and West Orange County Help 3 Afghanistan Women Settle in Long Beach with the Local Communities Support

Just a year after fleeing their homes in Afghanistan; Masoma, Reema, and Hameeda, are acclimating well

to life in Long Beach. With their Welcome Circle core team’s continued support and the assistance of NCJW’s dedicated volunteers, they have settled into housing, started the asylum process, and begun entry level jobs.

They overcame obstacles to complete their master’s program in September, graduating with honors. With degrees in Advanced Techniques in Horticulture, they are already interning at “The Growing Experience” urban farm. The women hope that their education and experience lead them to fulfilling careers where they can make a difference, like farming, food science, hunger nonprofits, landscaping, or water science. The team is helping them in that endeavor, looking for permanent employment with the goal of selfsufficiency. We are grateful for the communities’ assistance.

Saturday, Sunday, November 5, 6

After Care Kits Drive 10:00 am - 2:00 pm in front of the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus. Help comfort those that have undergone a procedure by donating to after-care kits. Individually wrapped pads, heating patches, Luna Bars or Oreo’s, travel-size hand sanitizer or wipes and hair ties.

Sponsor a kit for $7 www.ncjwlongbeach.org/donate Indicate “after-care” kit”.

Thursday, November 10 - Sunday November 13 Winter Coat Drive from 10:00am - 2:00 pm in front of Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus. Please donate warm outer wear, (all sizes welcome), which will be distributed to various needy organizations in our city.

Thursday, November 17, 7:00 pm

At the Alpert JCC on the Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus

In Person Advocacy Awareness Membership Social: Advocacy, Who Me? Yes, You.!

You may think advocacy is not your thing. But maybe you don’t really know what it is. You know there are issues that you care about. You know that change is needed. Join us in a social setting to talk to folks who are already involved as well as others who don’t know if they want to be. Covid Protocols have been relaxed: masks voluntary but requested. RSVP to advocacy@ ncjwlongbeach.org

Participation is free unless otherwise indicated. Donations are always appreciated.

For more information call 657-235-2511 or email info@ ncjwlongbeach.org

Visit our website for updated events such as collecting food for LBCC Pantry, Get Out the Vote activities and after care kits collection/assembly: www.ncjwlongbeach.org

Orange County Jewish Genealogical Society (OCJGS)

Sunday, November 20, 10:00 am Pacific Time Phil Goldfarb; Getting the Most out of the JewishGen Discussion Group

Sunday, December 18, 10:00 am Pacific Time Vivian Kahn; Hungarian Jewish Genealogy

For more information and to register please visit ocjgs.org

It’s not too late to make a difference in 2022, with a tax-deductible gift to Jewish Long Beach.

Your support helps preserve Jewish life and strengthen Jewish advocacy, while also providing assistance to people in need and at risk, wherever they are. Please contact Kevin Giser, Chief Operating & Development Officer at kgiser@jewishlongbeach. org to make a gift.

Thank you to all our 2022 supporters!

JEWISH LONG BEACH

FROM JEWISH LONG BEACH & ALPERT JCC BOARD, LEADERSHIP & STAFF

N MEMORY OF

Shirley Locke

Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law to Margaret Locke & Bill Giser

Beloved Grandmother to Kevin Giser & Emma Rees

Dr. Jack Rabin Beloved Husband to Karen Rabin

Beloved Father & Father-in-law to Mrs. Gabrielle & Mr. Moshe Tsabag to Mr. Matthew & Mrs. Jennifer Rabin

Leonard Keiles

Beloved Father & Father-in law to Steven & Pam Keiles Former Father-in-law to Linda Keiles

Patricia Workman

Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law to Vicki & Seth Kogan

IN HONOR OF Stella Ungar Happy 95th Birthday

GENERAL FUND IN MEMORY OF

Renee Adrienne Solomon Beloved Mother to Ava Weiss from Joyce & Mike Greenspan

David Lowenstein

Beloved Father & Father-in-law to Tara & Brian Sweet from David, Sharlee, Max & Kylie

IN HONOR OF Rabbi Abba Perelmuter from Mary Josephine Guzzetta

MACCABI FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Renee Adrienne Solomon Beloved Mother to Ava Weiss from Barbara LiebermanJones & Doug Jones from Barry & Rita Zamost

MICHAEL SEGAL MAIMONIDES FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Renee Adrienne Solomon Beloved Mother to Ava Weiss from Jessie Butler

SENIOR LUNCH FUND IN HONOR OF Dr. Susan Mathieu Happy Birthday to our dearest friend from Penny, Kurt, Kelly, Anthony & Ginger

In honor of your special birthday from Shlomit Jackson

IN MEMORY OF Fruma Zeitun Beloved Aunt from Shlomit Jackson

LONG BEACH GIVES

IN MEMORY OF Renee Adrienne Solomon Beloved Mother to Ava Weiss from Sharon & Marty Kenigsberg

IN HONOR OF Dr. Susan Mathieu Happy 70th Birthday from Beverley Bender

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

GENERAL FUND IN MEMORY OF

Shirley Locke

Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law from Margaret Locke & Bill Giser AVA AND HOWARD WEISS OLDER ADULT FUND

IN MEMORY OF

Nell

Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law to Rabbi Steven Moskowitz & Ana from Binnie & Jack Berro & Family Kathleen Beloved Sister & Sister-in-law to Gael & Glenn Libby from Binnie & Jack Berro & Family

Renee Adrienne Solomon

Beloved Mother & Mother-in-law to Ava & Howard Weiss from Binnie & Jack Berro & Family from Trudy Rosen from Susan & Dr. Murray Taubman

For JFCS tributes call: 562.427.7916

CSULB’s Jewish Studies Program’s Fall Speaker Series

MAY THEIR MEMORY BE A BLESSING

Shirley Locke Toby Schuster Roselle Filkoff

Rita Woods

David Lowenstein

Eileen Hopp Dr. Jack Rabin

Allen Engerman

Leonard Keiles

Patricia Workman

Gerald Yavitz

Mark Lowenstein

We extend our condolences to the families and friends of those who have recently lost a loved one.

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

Thursday, November 10, 7:00 pm Dr. Dov Waxman, Director of the Y. and S. Nazarian Center for Israel Studies at UCLA will speak on the topic: “Israel Goes to the Polls (Again): Analyzing the Election Results.

After several years of limbo, in 2021 Israelis elected the most unusual coalition government in its 73-year history, bringing together parties across the ideological spectrum, including for the first time, an independent Israeli Arab party. Despite such strong differences among its members, that government managed to pass a budget and weather several crises before ultimately collapsing after a year. Dr. Waxman’s talk will analyze the results of the new election scheduled for November 1, as well as discussing the outgoing government and its achievements.

Zoom link: https://csulb.zoom.us/j/82726096760

Thursday, December 1, 7:00 pm

Dr. Raphael Sonenshein, the Executive Director of the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs at CSULA will speak on the topic: “Hot Buttons and Cold Politics: What’s Up With the Midterms.”

One of our most beloved speakers, Professor Sonenshein has the rare ability to combine passionate political analysis with a great deal of humor. His talk will review the November 2022 midterm elections in the United States, with particular attention to the roles that abortion and Trump played in the outcome.

Zoom link: https://csulb.zoom.us/j/85613168858

Zichrono Livrakha

ALPERT JCC

JFCS

Dr. Dov Waxman

Dr. Raphael Sonenshein

Celebrating 100 Years of Jewish American History

COME LEARN WITH

Temple Israel’s extensive adult education program - our Joys of Jewish Learning is a proud past recipient of The Union for Reform Judaism’s Congregations of Learning Award. The entire community is invited to join us for any and all classes, most of them at NO COST!

Download our full catalog and be part of our learning community! THIS YEAR’S CLASSES INCLUDE:

TASTE OF JUDAISM with Rabbi Scott Fox

Wednesdays at 7:00 pm

November 9, 16, 30

This class is especially designed for unaffiliated Jews, intermarried couples, those seeking an initial orientation into an adult approach to the study of Judaism, and all those searching for an entry into Jewish life.

JEWISH ROCK AND ROLL:

Jewish Rockers of The Past 100 Years

Wednesdays at 7:00 pm

December 7, 14, 21

How Rock and Roll shook the foundations of American society and why the Jews have been a central part of that revolution. Come learn how our unique role in American society led to the growth of the greatest popular music.

PRAYER 101 Kabbalat Shabbat Overview with Cantor Kelly Cooper Friday, December 9 at 6:00 pm

Let’s delve deeper into the prayers that we recite at services. We’ll translate them, look at their origins, and explore why the sages felt it was important that they be included in our liturgy. Looking forward to studying them with you!