AllproceedssupportourCulinaryConnectionsInitiative whichwillrenovatetheAlpertJCC’smainandEarly ChildhoodEducationkitchensintodynamicspacesthatwill nourishourcommunityforgenerations.
All proceeds support our Culinary Connections Initiative which will renovate the Alpert JCC’s main and Early Childhood Education kitchens into dynamic spaces that will nourish our community for generations.
Many of you know the children’s Shabbat song, in which the key lyric is, “I’ve got that Shabbat feeling up in my head up in my head up in my head ”
I had that Shabbat feeling throughout a Shabbat in mid-August. It started at Shabbat by the Pool, thanks to Rabbi Scott Fox of Temple Israel, Rabbi Menachem Mirski, Ph.D. of Temple Beth Shalom, Rabbi Nancy Myers of Temple Beth David, and Jewish Long Beach’s Director of Jewish Life and Culture, Dana Schneider Chanzit. Each of them, with their guitars, their songs, and their prayers, brought the sacred joy of Shabbat to what would otherwise be a regular late afternoon in the sun.
I watched a small gaggle of children, enchanted, as they leaped and danced in front of the small table holding the Shabbat candles, wine and challah. I saw the pride in their parents’ faces. The parents – and their children –represented the broad range of Jewish engagement and experience that we w l J i h L B h I f l g J t
connecting to their people and their traditions.
My memory of that late summer afternoon inspires me as we approach the cycle of Yomim Noraim, literally ‘the intense days.’ These days are intense not just because they are their own spiritual marathon, with the mile-markers including Rosh HaShanah, a ten-day kind of waiting period leading up to Yom Kippur, and the 8 days of Sukkot immediately afterwards It can be intense just getting through all that.
Those days are also intense, of course, because of what we are called upon to do spiritually. On Rosh HaShanah, we celebrate the gift of another year. On Sukkot, we celebrate the abundance of godly protection Yom Kippur falls in between, calling us to examine our own thoughts and actions as soberly as possible, and actually extends that intense self-reflection to the two holidays around it. Some may have even begun that selfreflection a month earlier, beginning in the Hebrew month of Elul. Talk about intense: a nearly two-month period in which we are expected to perform a heshbon hanefesh, an accounting of our souls
Definitely not a religion for the faint of heart. Nor are the days we are living in for the faint of heart It seems every day presents us with a new challenge to how we account for the world, how we count in the world, how we reconcile our own lives with and within such a precarious world.
That’s why, for me, moments like those at Shabbat at the Pool are so important I need a weekly infusion of that shabbat feeling up in my head to face a roiling world. I need the friends and family who help make meaningful the days of intensity – whether those days are religiously ordained or are just a random, challenging Tuesday. I need the connections between us all in the Jewish Long Beach community to stay balanced
Our traditional blessing for this time of year is shanah tovah – may it be a good year. May Jewish Long Beach help you experience the joy, the meaning, and the connection we all need to make it a truly good year.
RememberingRabbiLaibson
6 SHALOM5786
HighHolyDayGreetings
BethDavid 6100HefleySt.Westminster,CA92683
RabbiNancyMyers 714.892.6623|templebethdavid.org tbdavid@templebethdavid.org
ChabadofLosAlamitos&Cypress 12340SealBeachBlvd.SuiteB-219SealBeach,CA90740 RabbiShmuelMarcus 714.828.1851|chabadlosal.com smarcus@jewishcypress.com
ChabadofWestOrangeCounty/ CongregationAdatIsrael 5052WarnerAve.Huntington
Aron
Berkowitz 714.846.2285|chabadhb.com info@chabadhb.com
CongregationLubavitch
CongregationSholomofLeisureWorld,
congsholomlwsb@gmail.com
ShulByTheShore
|shulbytheshore.org rabbi@shulbytheshore.org
TempleBethOhr
E.RosecransAve.LaMirada,CA90638
Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way
3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791 562.426.7601 | jewishlongbeach.org Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Member
Jewish Long Beach is a 501(c)3 with tax I.D. 95-1647830
OntheCover
This year’s Jewish Long Beach Gala supports the renovation of the Alpert JCC’s main and Early Childhood Education kitchens into nourishing spaces for our community to grow. See details on page 2.
Editorial and advertising queries, please call 562.426.7601 x1314 or write chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org. Ad & Copy deadline for November/December 2025 issue: October 3, 2025 Chronicle ©2025 Jewish Long Beach. All Rights Reserved. Photo by Caitlin & Co.
Richard R. Marcus, Ph.D.
President, Board of Directors
Amy Lakin
Chief Community Impact Officer
Rachel Roberts
Marketing Manager & Co-editor
Mark Rothman
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Susan Paletz Chief Program Officer
Amanda Morell
Marketing Coordinator & Co-editor
LenMuroff 714.521.6765|tbolm.org office@tbolm.org
TempleBethShalom
ElmAvenueLongBeach,CA90807 RabbiMenachemMirski 562.426.6413|tbslb.org office@tbslb.org TempleIsrael
Jewish Long Beach mourns the passing of Rabbi Howard Laibson, a beloved spiritual leader, teacher, and friend who dedicated his life to building community, inspiring justice, and bringing joy to Jewish living Over his decades of service to the Long Beach Jewish community, Rabbi Laibson served as Rabbi of Temple Israel of Long Beach and later Congregation Shir Chadash of Lakewood. He was a cherished lay leader and active Grants Committee member of Jewish Long Beach, where his contributions left a lasting impact on thousands of lives. Rabbi Laibson served as President of Pacific Association of Reform Rabbis, President of South Coast Interfaith Council, Chair of Community of the Conference for Equality and Justice, our local Kehillah Council Among his Rabbinic interns were Rabbi Lisa Hochberg Miller, Rabbi Rebecca Schorr, and Rabbi Daniel Cohen.
Those who knew Rabbi Laibson often speak of his deep love for camp life music, guitar, the great outdoors, and the freedom of self-expression that Jewish sleepaway camp offered young people A lifelong naturalist, he wrote a soon to be published book reflecting on the beauty of disconnecting from city life, finding peace the redwoods. For Rabbi, the magic of cam and nature was not limited to childhood summers; he strived to make every community he was part of feel like camp Moments were meant to be joyful, connective, and filled with purpose
Rabbi put his belief in interfaith cooperation and the pursuit of justice for a into his daily practice. He worked closely a Chair of CCEJ , advocated for human right issues like the Darfur crisis, and brought a strong moral voice to communal conversations His commitment to tikkun olam was unwavering, grounded in Jewish values and extended with love to the broader world
The key to maintaining the rhythm of life is resting at the right time.
For Linda Waltzman, a fellow Jewish Long Beach leader and longtime friend who met at a teen retreat, Rabbi Laibson’s presence was a constant from joyous moments like Israeli dancing at SCFTY to solemn ones, such as officiating the funerals of her parents and being by her side in moments of personal loss He embodied the sacred rhythm of life, once saying, “The key to maintaining the rhythm of life is resting at the right time ” His words remain a reminder of the grace with which he moved through the world.
In his memory, Rabbi Laibson’s legacy continues through the Rabbi Howard Laibson Jewish Campership Fund, established to honor his lifelong passion for Jewish sleepaway camp through the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Long Beach The leadership of Congregation Shir Chadash were key partners in beginning the fund when Rabbi retired, and still today generously sustain it’s funding. Over the past two summers alone, the fund has sent more than 40 local youth to camp, providing transformative experiences for the next generation just as Rabbi would have wanted
He is survived by his wife, Ellen Goldsmith, daughters Ariela Laibson and Miriam Laibson (Randy), and granddaughter Mara. May Rabbi Howard Laibson’s memory be a blessing and may his example continue to guide our community with the same warmth, compassion, and joy that he brought to every life he touched. For those who got to know him, may his teachings, stories, and melodies last forever
Have you left a Legacy Gift to Jewish Long Beach and want to share your impact story?
Do you feel inspired by Rabbi Laibson’s story and want to learn about the difference you can make with a Legacy Gift? Contact Kevin Giser at kgiser@jewishlongbeach.org or 562.426.7601 ext. 1011
HappyNewYear
JessieButler&Family; EllenRuimy&Family; SaraButler&Family;
CarlaHoffman&Family; HeidiHardy&Family
WishingYouaHappy& Healthy NewYear
JewishFamily& Children’sServiceof LongBeach &OrangeCounty
WishingYouAHappy &HealthyNewYear
Marc,Sybil,Rachael, David,Deborah,Lily& JonathanTamaroff
Wishingeveryonea goodyear!
Emma,Kevin&Mookie
Wishingyouayearof health,joyandlaughter
Rosecarrie &AlanBrooks
Wishingyoua Happy&Healthy NewYear
Don&Andrea
Kaiser&Family
Wishingyoua Happy &HealthyNew Year
NCJWGreater LongBeach& WestOrange County
WishingYoua Happy&Healthy NewYear
JannKronick-Gath andChanceGath
ShanahTovah
TheKenigsberg Family
ShanahTovah JewishLongBeach Board&Staff
Mayyoubeinspired foragoodyear
Barbara&Lester Brown
Wishingyoua Happy&Healthy NewYear
Arlene& RickFreeman
WishesforaHappy& HealthyNewYear
Lee&BarbaraShoag
WishingYoua Happy &HealthyNew Year
ShirleyRoss
BestWishesfor aNewYearof Joy&Laughter
Dr.SusanMathieuandthe HappyMathieuFamily
WishingYouaHappy &HealthyNewYear
Jeffrey,Lauren,Ellie, Joshua,andJacobRips, SandyRips,and Roberta Gershon
Wishingyoua NewYearof Health, Happiness, &Joy
Laurie&Robert Raykoff &Family
RabbiMenachemMirski|TempleBethShalom
There are many passages in the Torah (and in the rest of the Hebrew Bible) that sound quite disturbing, to say the least, for many contemporary Jews For example, all these paragraphs that ordain our ancestors to dispossess all the inhabitants of the Promised land, destroy their places of worship, or even worse - kill them all. I have seen many Jews, including rabbis, struggling with them emotionally and intellectually very hard But here is the thing: in order to truly understand these passages we need to put the lens of our modern sensitivity aside, or at least try to intellectually suspend our modern moral judgment. Then we will clearly see that the Promised Land wasn't handed to us on a silver platter! Our ancestors had to conquer it and they had to dominate the land in order to be able to keep it in our possession.
The following question may sound trivial but it’s absolutely legitimate: What was the goal of all of that, of all that conquest? First, the goal was to create something we would now describe as a Jewish state - a separate and independent political entity, ruled by the Divine laws of the Torah. That’s whyand it is stated in the Torah many times - the land, the Promised land was given to us on the condition that it will be governed by the laws of the Torah But that was not the end goal actually here but an intermediate one The end goal was to establish the Jewish state governed by the Torah and then grow it into some sort of empire, a completely new civilization between two existing ones at that time - Egypt and Babylon - that would outlast them for thousands of years.
The problem is that our ancient ancestors never got to that first goal - they actually failed to permanently establish a just, Jewish state, governed solely by the laws of the Torah. And this was stated many times by our Prophets, in their criticism of the Israelite ruling class and the ancient Jewish society. That’s why the goal posts had to be moved many times in Jewish history.
As our rabbis - the successors of our prophets - stated many times: we lost both Temples and our Promised land precisely because of that - because of our failure in fully implementing the Divine law. But we have never lost our covenant with God and the Divine promises included in it; but the ways we to receive them and our role in it had to be and has been redefined throughout history
Therefore, what we should be asking ourselves now is: what’s our goal now? What is the mission of the Jewish people now, in the contemporary world, after more than two millennials our foundational Holy texts were written?
Well that’s a pretty extensive topic. Besides our eternal obligations - to keep and implement the Jewish law and to remain who we are, the mission of the Jewish people in the 21st century is multifaceted First of all, our Jewish national and religious continuity involves standing for justice, for the State of Israel, and freedom of religious practice. It involves preserving Jewish identity, combating antisemitism, interfaith dialogue and promoting peace and justice among the peoples of the world.
Because it is all very general, let me focus today on a very particular idea, the idea that is expressed in the phrase "Jews are the canary in the coal mine" What does it mean?
It basically refers to the idea that rising antisemitism is often an early warning sign of broader societal dangers, such as the erosion of democracy, increased intolerance, and threats to the rights and safety of all minority groups Once the Jews, as a group, start to be attacked and vilified, it’s just the beginning of the collapse of all good social and political norms and standards Antisemitism is indeed an early indicator: this analogy suggests that when antisemitism increases, it's not just a problem for Jews, but signals a weakening of societal values that protect all people from hate and discrimination.
So, to essence, the "Jews are the canary in the coal mine" analogy expressed the idea the treatment of the Jewish community can be a barometer for the health of a society, and a rise in antisemitism should be seen as a red flag for potential harm to all other groups and to democratic, western values as a whole.
Why is it so? There are a lot of societal and historical reasons for this whole metaphor but they can be simplified to one fundamental idea: we are a successful minority, which is pretty rare and it by itself invites a great amount of attention. From this point things can develop the right waywhere we are seen as an educated, hardworking people, with strong values, strong identity and sense of direction, and because of that we are respected because we are literally an example for other peoples to
follow But, unfortunately, it can develop the wrong way, the very bad way: yes, THE JEWS are indeed very successful but it’s only because they are power-hungry, because they lie, cheat and conspire against others to dominate them.
Our people have heard that many times throughout history; it’s obviously not true but that’s how this mechanism works. But here is my point and my hope: things can develop the right way only in the society that is in itself successful, where people are happy, open, tolerant and loving, where resentment and hate are rare and difficult to spread around to build some sort of political ideology on them. Once the society stumbles, people become frustrated, angryfor whatever reason - resentment, envy and scapegoating - or any form of looking for someone to blame - all these things come to the fore
What can we do about it? In fact a lot, despite being a small minority. We should continue to pursue justice, stand for Israel, be involved in interfaith dialogue, namely, everything we normally do pursuing tikkun olam. But on a more specific level, we should do whatever we can to help other people in our society to be successful, regardless of their identity This always includes showing a good example, but not only that - any action towards that goal diminishes discontent, envy and resentment, and it’s praiseworthy. That is an important part of our mission, as Jews, in the world today. And this is my motto for our New Year, 5786: I’m going to do whatever I can to help others, Jews and non-Jews alike, to have a successful life
Shanah Tovah! Rabbi Mirski
Looking for a wonderful way to get involved in your community, make new friends and do a mitzvah? Come check out Jewish Long Beach Women's Philanthropy group Inspired by Jewish values, Women’s Philanthropy broadens and deepens engagement in Jewish life to strengthen Jewish identity, foster dynamic connections with Israel, and care for all Jews in need.
Using our leadership skills and combined talents , we have several ongoing community projects that help our local schools, food banks, and children's programs Women’s Philanthropy is part of the national Jewish Federations Dignity Project program which provides period products to girls and teens who are not able to afford these items. We package the items
at our Dignity wrap events and then they are distributed to local middle and high schools in the greater Long Beach area. Women’s Philanthropy is also involved in global initiatives that help raise funds and awareness for Israel and Jews in need across the globe
We invite you to join us in an environment where every Jewish woman can enrich and strengthen her identity as a woman and a Jew and help make a difference in our world We will be hosting a series of focus groups to help us plan our path for the coming year If you are interested in taking part in one of these groups, contact Susan Paletz at spaletz@alpertjcc.org or 562.426.7601 ext. 1012.
A field trip to view the new Diane von
Wine&DesignCraftNight
A night of community connection over wine and crafts
Wehavemembershipplansfor everyone!
Discountsforseniors,teens,andstudents! FREEforActivePolice&Fire!
AJCCMembersEnjoy:
40+groupexerciseclasses eachweek
Recreational&lapswimin newlyrenovatedpool Indoorbasketball&pickleball 7days/week
Accesstofitnesscenter,day uselockers&drysauna Programdiscounts
Visions&VinowithLaurenFriedman
Thursday|Sept18|6PM|Free
CreateyourVisionBoardforanamazingNewYear! RSVPatjewishlongbeach.org
SharakaPanelDiscussion
Monday|Sept8|6:30PM|Free withBeachHillelandSharaka
DiscussingtheAbrahamAccordsfiveyearslaterandits impactontheMiddleEast.Preregistrationrequired.
SweetBeginnings:CookingDemo
Tuesday|Sept9|6:30PM|Free
LearnhowtomakeadeliciousapplecakewithEveLunt!
HighHolyDaysSeniorOutreach
Tuesday|Sept16|10AM|Free
Packanddeliverholidaygoodiesforlocalseniors.
Scheduleatourtodayatjewishlongbeach.org
Drop-inMahJongg:Mondays,6PM Wednesdays,1PM
BarbaraAlpertSingingCircle:Wednesdays 10:30AM|Free
Drop-inCanasta:Wednesdays|11:30AM,1PM|Free Kabbalah:Wednesdays|12PM|Free
JessieButlerSeniorLuncheon
Wednesday|Sept3,17,Oct8|12PM AlpertClassicFilmSociety
Wednesday|7PM|Virtual
September10:Oliver!(1968)
October8:TheExterminatingAngel(1962) Happiness&HumorGroup
Friday|Sept5,October3|11AM|Free SeniorShabbat&LuncheonwithTempleIsrael
Saturday|Sept13,Oct11|11AM|Free
DanaSchneider-Chanzit dschneider@alpertjcc.org
MahJonggBeginnerSeries
Friday|Sept12,19,26|10AM
LearntoplaythetimelessgamewithMahjClub!Register atjewishlongbeach.org
CSULBOLLIPresents:ElderJustice
Tuesday|Sept16|2PM|Free
Learnhowtorecognize/protectagainstelderabuse.
JFCSWorkshop:MotivatingforSchoolSuccess
Tuesday|Oct21|5:30PM|Free
Learnhowtohelpyourchildsucceedinthispracticaland supportiveparentingworkshop.
ZenaandPaulineGatovGallery
September:Far-Flung:TravelPaintingsbyAnneKupillas
October:LongBeachModernQuilt
Fri•Sept12•5PM•Free ontheFalkPlayground
RSVPatalpertjcc.org
Hours:Mon-Thurs6AM-9PM,Fri6AM-6PM,Sat-Sun7AM-5PM
SeeupcomingholidayhoursonPage4
BecomeaBluefin!
havemembershipplansfor everyone! Discountsforseniors,teens,andstudents! ActivePolice&Fire!
sponsoredbytheZamostFamilyinhonorofIsadoreZamost Opentoages6-14.Registertodayatjewishlongbeach.org
PremiumFitnessClasses
StartingSept2
TryoutanexcitingsmallgroupclasslikeExpressCore, Boxing,orBetterBalance.Registeratjewishlongbeach.org
BeginnerPickleballClinic
Sunday|Sept7,Oct19|12:30PM
HighHolyDaySoundBath
Tuesday|Sept16|6PM
jewishlongbeach.org jewishlongbeach.org
LearntoplaypickleballwithcertifiedcoachDavidAndersen!
Spendaneveningenhancingmindfulnessandmeditation underthestars.RSVPfortheaddress.
PersonalTraining
NewAJCCMembers:Enjoya1-hrfitnessassessmentand three30-minutePersonalTrainingsessions,allfor$120!
GroupFitness&AquaticsSchedules
Visitjewishlongbeach.orgortheAlpertJCCappforgroup classandpoolschedules.
Searching for the best option for your child?
NowenrollingToddlers-Pre-K Full-Time/Part-Time Ages18mo-5yr
Scheduleatourtodayat alpertjcc.org/ece
BloodDrive
GetaRedCrossx mysterybag!
Fri|9AM-3PM
Scheduleyourappointmentatalpertjcc.org
CandySukkahPlaydate
Sunday|Sept28|3PM|Free(suggested$10donation) Anafternoonofopenplayandsweetcreativityonthe FalkPlaygroundtocelebratethestartofSukkot! Coming Soon! ComingSoon!
DiscoverYouthSports! withSenseiMacandBBallersHoops MartialArtsforages3+andco-edyouthBasketballfor ages3-12
PJLibrary
CheckoutallyourfavoritePJLibrarybooksanddiscover hands-onactivitiesintheall-newPJLibraryFamilyArea intheZackLibrary!SignuptoreceivefreeJewish storybooksdeliveredstraighttoyourdoorforages0-8.
October16,2025
6:30pmattheAlpertJCC
After years of perseverance, prayer, and community partnership, Shul by the Shore is opening its first permanent home marking a transformative moment for Jewish life in Long Beach.
The new synagogue, located at 4545 E 4th Street in Belmont Heights, represents the culmination of a decades-long vision for a vibrant, inclusive center of Jewish connection and observance Led by Rabbi Abba and Chanie Perelmuter for over 25 years, Shul by the Shore has become a cornerstone of Jewish life in Long Beach serving as both a spiritual anchor and a hub for education, celebration, and outreach.
For many years, the congregation met at the Seaport Marina Hotel, a beloved gathering place for services, holidays, youth programs, and Jewish learning When the hotel was demolished to make way for redevelopment, the community entered a challenging chapter operating without a fixed location and adapting to borrowed spaces across the city. These years of transience, compounded by the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, tested the resilience of both leadership and membership
“There were moments when it felt like we were reliving the journey through the wilderness,” reflected Rabbi Perelmuter. “But even as we schlepped Torah scrolls from one temporary location to another, our sense of mission only deepened.”
That mission took a giant leap forward four years ago, when the congregation secured the property on 4th Street What followed were years of permitting battles, logistical hurdles, and fundraising milestones navigated with the steady leadership of devoted lay partners and the unwavering support of a passionate community.
With construction nearly complete, Shul by the Shore is now preparing to inaugurate a permanent space that is more than bricks and mortar it is a living testament to Jewish continuity, hospitality, and spiritual vitality.
Affiliated with Chabad, Shul by the Shore is rooted in traditional Jewish practice and animated by a spirit of openness. The community prides itself on welcoming individuals and families of all backgrounds and levels of observance offering
meaningful engagement for the deeply observant, the culturally curious, and everyone in between
“Our motto has always been ‘no labels, no judgment,’” said Rebbetzin Chanie Perelmuter, who directs many of the synagogue’s dynamic programs for women, children, and young families. “We believe every Jew should feel at home connected to their heritage and to each other ”
The new building will house a sanctuary, classrooms, social spaces, and flexible areas for youth education, holiday celebrations, and intergenerational programming. Beyond regular synagogue services, the shul’s calendar includes Hebrew school, bar and bat mitzvah preparation, teen groups, young adult gatherings, and community lectures open to the public
“This space is not just for our current members it’s for the future of Jewish life in Long Beach,” Rabbi Perelmuter said. “It’s for the children who will learn Alef-Bet here, for the families who will celebrate simchas together, and for anyone seeking meaning, belonging, and Jewish connection.” To learn more about this historic milestone, visit ShulbytheShore org/Build
Shul by the Shore will also be hosting High Holiday services in the new synagogue this fall, and all are warmly invited to join.
six
returned home before stepping onto UCLA, Berkeley, CSULB, and into the New Year
Last June, while our students counted down the final bell, six graduates quietly returned to the Hebrew Academy campus in Huntington Beach Their caps and gowns reflected where they’d been and where they were going white, gold, maroon, and navy; honor cords cascading like confetti; medals clinking with every step.. Within weeks, they’d scatter to UCLA (three of them), UC Berkeley, Cal State Long Beach, and a gapyear program in Jerusalem First, though, they needed to walk once more down Respect Road the breezeway that has greeted every Hebrew Academy student for nearly six decades.
Though they left at different points some after middle school, others before high school each traced their success back to the same foundation There was no formal program just quiet visits from room to room, with hugs, laughter, and heartfelt thanks. Teachers marveled at how much their former students had grown. The grads returned the favor, crediting their early years at Hebrew Academy for the confidence and grounding that carried them forward. Each acceptance letter felt like a shared victory
OneFoundation.ManyPathsto Excellence.
From engineering to music, from biology to physics, these six graduates forged majors as varied as Electrical Engineering, Biology, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Kinesiology, and Music some even blending disciplines to reflect a broader range of passions But behind each unique journey is the same launching pad: a place where curiosity, individuality, and Jewish values grow side by side.
THEY STARTED HERE. YOUR CHILD CAN TOO →HACDS.ORG/TOUR
For parents wondering how one school can prepare children for so many futures, Hebrew Academy’s answer is simple: rigorous academics, small class sizes, and project-based learning rooted in Jewish values and character Our students leave with the skills to succeed in demanding college courses and the clarity to seek purpose and community wherever they go. We don’t steer students toward one destination. We hand them the map, the compass, and the confidence to chart their course.
Today’s families are seeking more than just academic excellence. They want a school that helps shape their child’s character and identity. Prizmah’s 2024 College Campus Impact Study shows that Jewish day school alumni are significantly more likely than peers who did not attend day school to say their Jewish identity is very important, feel
close to the Jewish community, connect strongly with Israel, and participate regularly in Jewish life on campus.
Hebrew Academy’s data echoes this When these six grads gathered in June, their excitement about campus life wasn’t just about majors it was about Jewish life as well. The alum stories confirm it: day school graduates thrive academically, while leading with Jewish values and pride
LookingAhead—andInvitingYouIn
As the Jewish New Year approaches, Hebrew Academy wishes these graduates Hatzlacha Raba abundant success in labs, studios, lecture halls, and yeshivot. Their stories are a living syllabus for every child still walking our hallways: deep roots grow bold futures.
Take a personal tour, meet the people who make it happen, and imagine what this experience could mean for your child
On your personalized tour, you’ll: Meet our administrators, teachers, and support staff, and ask every question, big or small.
Step inside live classrooms to watch engaging classroom instruction in action
Explore the Makerspace, science labs, and outdoor play areas
Feel how Jewish values weave naturally through the school day.
Discover how Hebrew Academy inspires a bold future: hacds.org/Discover
ThiseditionisallabouttheHighHolyDays.TheHigh HolyDays,consistingofRoshHashanah(NewYear)and YomKippur(DayofAtonement),makeupthefirst10 daysoftheJewishNewYear.Theseholidays commemorateconceptssuchasrenewal,forgiveness, freedom,andjoy.
9/22:Closeat3PM•9/23:Closed•10/1:Closeat3PM 10/2:Closed•10/6:Closeat3PM•10/7:Closed 10/13:Closeat3PM•10/15:Closed WelcometoourPuzzleCorner!
Songs+Blessingsw/CantorCooper+RabbiMirski Hands-OnSukkotExperience PastaDinner+Drinks+Desserts Apple Atonement Challah
Established in 1982, the JCC Maccabi Games® is an Olympic-style sporting competition that brings together Jewish teens from across the globe for five unforgettable days each summer. Beyond athletic excellence, the Games are a celebration of Jewish identity, values, and community With vibrant opening and closing ceremonies, meaningful community service, cultural events, and countless social opportunities, the experience leaves a lasting impact on every participant.
Thanks in part to the generous donation from Jewish Connection Network, this summer, 27 athletes from Team Long Beach proudly joined 1,000 Jewish teens from across the U S , Canada, Israel, and Ukraine at the JCC Maccabi Games in Tucson, Arizona. Competing in events including 3v3 basketball, baseball, dance, flag football, golf, tennis, soccer, and swimming, our athletes represented Long Beach with spirit, pride, and rachmanus (good sportsmanship).
We’re thrilled to share that our 17U 3v3 basketball team went undefeated, bringing home the gold medal, while our
17U baseball team earned a well-deserved silver.
In addition to their athletic achievements, our teens took part in JCC Cares the Games’ community service initiative giving back to local Tucson organizations such as Youth on Their Own and Ben’s Bells These meaningful service projects allowed athletes to embody the Jewish value of tikkun olam repairing the world while making a difference in the host community.
Since its inception, the JCC Maccabi Games® have impacted more than 130,000 Jewish youth worldwide, building friendships, strengthening Jewish identity, and inspiring future leaders This year was no exception, and Team Long Beach was proud to be part of this life-changing experience.
Special thanks to the staff and volunteers who led Team Long Beach to success!
Natalie Chernik - Delegation Head
Howard Weiss - Baseball Coach
Tyler Bermundo - Assistant Baseball Coach
Matthew McFarren - Basketball Coach
Jewish Connections Network Giving Circle whose grants made it affordable for all participants
Reflecting in the few quiet moments before dinner with 700 others…
We have witnessed and grieved the human atrocities that occurred in this death camp.
The plan was complete extermination of the Jewish people. None of us in this photo were supposed to exist
With broken hearts and pride for the resilience of our people we rode from the darkness of Birkenau to the light of a vibrant Jewish community in Krakow. It is a privilege, an honor and a responsibility…
BethDavid
Saturday, September 6, 9 am
Torah Study with Rabbi Nancy Myers
Sunday, September 7
Women of Beth David Event
Thursday, September 11, 12 pm
Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Nancy Myers
Saturday, September 13
6 pm Selichot 7:30 pm 65 Years of High Holiday Services at Beth David 8:45 pm Havdalah Service outside on the patio 9:00 pm Selichot Service by candlelight in the sanctuary
Sunday, September 14, 8 am-3 pm
Blood Drive Contact Cathy Niederman at 714.673.1154 for Appointment
Monday, September 22, 7:30 pm Erev Rosh Hashanah
Tuesday, September 23, 10 am Rosh Hashanah
Wednesday, September 24, 10 am
Second Day Rosh Hashanah at Huntington Beach Central Park Plaza. Combined with Congregation B’nai Tzedek
Wednesday, October 1, 7:30 pm Kol Nidre
Thursday, October 2
Yom Kippur
10 am Morning Service
3:15 pm Afternoon service
5:30 Yizkor & Closing service
Sunday, October 5
Women of Beth David Event
Monday, October 6, 7 pm
Erev Sukkot
Thursday, October 9, 12 pm
Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Nancy Myers
Saturday, October 11, 10:30 am Tot Shabbat Sukkot
Monday, October 13, 7 pm Erev Simchat Torah
Saturday, October 25, 9 am Body, Mind, & Spirit Shabbat Choice between walking in the Wetlands or hiking at the Pacific Ridge trailhead RSVP to Temple
Sunday, October 26
Brotherhood Tribute Band Concert
Lunch at 12, $15 Live Concert 2 pm $40 General, $60 Reserved
We welcome you to join us for the High Holidays. Please register for services by Friday, September 12 We offer free childcare & programming during many of the High Holiday services, with pre-registration
Saturday, September 13, 7:30 pm
Leil Selichot Services, Havdalah event with guest speaker
Monday, September 22, 6:30 pm
Erev Rosh Hashanah Services
Tuesday, September 23, 9 am
Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Services
Tuesday, September 23, 5 pm
Taschlich & Community Shofar blowing at Scherer Park Pond
Tuesday, September 23, 7 pm
Rosh Hashanah Afternoon & Evening Services
Wednesday, September 24, 9 am
Rosh Hashanah Day 2 Services
Wednesday, October 1, 6 pm
Kol Nidre Services featuring Leeav Sofer, please arrive at 5:30 pm
Thursday, October 2, 9 am
Yom Kippur Morning Services
Thursday, October 2, 5 pm
Yom Kippur Afternoon Services
Tuesday, October 7,10 am
Sukkot I Services
Wednesday, October 8, 10 am
Sukkot II Services
Friday, October 10, 7 pm
Sisterhood Annual Sukkot Dinner, please register by Friday, October 3, at https://tinyurl.com/TBSSukkotDinner
Sunday, October 12,10 am
Youth Sukkot Event
Tuesday, October 14,10 am
Shemini Atzeret Services
Tuesday, October 14, 7 pm
Simchat Torah Services and concert
Wednesday, October 15,10 am
Simchat Torah Services
Saturdays, 10 am-12:30 pm
Shabbat Tots
Bring your kids on Saturday mornings for supervised activities and fun while you attend morning services
To register, contact us at office@TBSLB.org or 562.426.6413 or visit TBSLB.org
All events and services are open to the community. For adult learning classes and other events, please see our website and calendar
For September - October 2025 events, please see ad on back page.
4th Saturday of the month, July-October
9-11 am
Art for the Heart at Alpert JCC
Free healing art circle for children & families
All supplies provided! To sign up, contact JFCS 562 427 7916
Tuesday, October 21, 5:30-6:30 pm
JFCS Free Workshop at Alpert JCC: Motivating for School Success
Join us for a practical and supportive parenting workshop where you’ll learn strategies to help your child succeed-both in
and out of the classroom.
To register, visit jfcslboc.org/jfcs-presents
NCJW-GreaterLongBeach& WestOrangeCounty
Tuesday, September 9, 6-8 pm
Abortion Comfort Kit packing at the Alpert JCC with a Speaker from Planned Parenthood, along with writing postcards to Get Out The Vote
Thursday, October 9, 6-8 pm
HugPack packing at the Alpert JCC
RSVP to www.ncjwlongbeach.org by the day before the event.
OrangeCountyGenealogySociety
Sunday, September 28, 10 am on Zoom
Zachary Mazur
Rabbis, Innkeepers, and Tricksters: Jewish Life in Poland & Lithuania
Sunday, October 26,10 am on Zoom
Jerry Rishe
US immigration law as it affected Jewish Immigration
Register for both events at www ocjgs org Free for members, $5 for non-members
FromJewishLongBeachBoard, Leadership,&Staff
IN MEMORY OF
Rabbi Howard Laibson
To Ellen Goldsmith & Laibson Family
Mara Sue Shamaya
Beloved mother & mother-in-law
To Kendra & Barry Cogert
Barry Beckerman
Beloved brother
To Carol Beckerman
MAZEL TOV
To Hannah Greenbaum & Hayden Goodsir
On the birth of their daughter
Goldie Kathleen Goodsir
To Norma Schumow & Melissa & Baltazar Osorio
On the births of
Liana Josephine DeBouter Osorio & Simon Louis Carter
GET WELL WISHES
To Allan Kolsky
GeneralFund
IN MEMORY OF
Ted Van Boemel
Beloved father & father-in-law
To Cheryl & Allan Waterman
From Ben, Barbara, Jay, & Lee Alhadeff
Beloved Great Grandpa
From Levi & Talia Feldman
GET WELL WISHES
To Allan Kolsky
From Binnie & Jack Berro
JewishLongBeachMaintenance Fund
IN MEMORY OF
Ann Lentzner
To the Lentzner Family
From Binnie & Jack Berro
The Giser-Locke Family
The Alhadeff Family
Arlene & Rick Freeman
Barbara & Leon Shoag
Susan Stuhlbarg
Sharon Kenigsberg
IN MEMORY OF
Fran Paletz
Beloved mother & grandmother
From Mark & Susan Paletz
Richard Alterman
To Mr & Mrs M Tiras
From Marlene Levy
IN MEMORY OF
Rabbi Howard Laibson
To the Laibson Family
From
Your PetPlace Family (Todd Whittington)
Joshua Rosenberg
Sharon Greenthal
Michele Slogoff
Sharon Greenthal
Jerry & March Welt
Bruce Kadden
Erin Reiss
Terrie Gottstein
Christen Love
Lee & Barbara Shoag
Rabbi Greg Weisman
Jeffrey & Lauren Rips
Joy Gordon
Arlene & Rick Freeman
Judith & John Rennick
Jeff Marx
Michael Zeldin
Deborah Stadtner
Steven Chester
Rabbi Jim Kaufman
The Alhadeff Family
Curtis Gibbs
Jan Katzew
Debi Klein
Susan Cohen
Sharon Kenigsberg
Susan & Mark Paletz
Aaron & Leslie Kern
Carol Masters
Vicki & Todd Scherwin
Daniel Bridge
Edie & Joel Brodsky
Jean Fromm
Anna Salusky
Carol Jimenez
Lidia Fahlk
Laurie & Eric Zahner
Judith Leff
Rick & Linda Burney
Nicole Malina
Rosecarrie & Alan Brooks
Jeffrey P. Brown
Joyce & Hank Feldman
Lauren & Stuart Friedman
Kim & Steven Dwyer
Lynn & Bob Loewy
Ettie Councilman
Spencer Fidler
ShulbytheShore
IN MEMORY OF Dr. Robert (Bob) Winer
From Harriet Danufsky
For Jewish Long Beach tributes call: 562 426 7601 ext 1314
IN MEMORY OF Ted Van Boemel
From Joanne Feldman
Nancy Leb
Marian & Paul Martin
Susan Stuhlbarg
IN HONOR OF
Beth & Arvin Katlen’s 60thWedding Anniversary
From Gary & Betty Webne
IN MEMORY OF Abraham Kroopnick
From Cheryl Weisman-Cohen
For JFCS tributes call 562 427 7916
MayTheirMemoryBeABlessing
Barry Beckerman
Gene Broscow
Rabbi Howard Laibson
Mimi Opkins
Mara Sue Shamaya
Dr. Robert Winer
Alan Yudin
