Keeping Jewish - Chanukah 2021

Tradition, Inspiration and Celebration · December 2021 Teves 5782 Published by Chabad Tucson

Worth the read

Newest additions to the Jewish book market

Latkes 101

A recipe to follow and a humorous one

Coffee and scribbles An artist spends a morning in Jerusalem

Utilizing your talents Father’s message for daughter’s Bat Mitzvah

Lights, action!

Celebrating Chanukah at home and at Tucson’s tallest Menorah

ESSAY

When G-d gives you lemons The Jewish outreach and education network of Southern Arizona 2443 E 4th Street, Tucson, AZ 85719 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Rabbi Yossie Shemtov REBBETZIN

Chanie Shemtov OUTREACH DIRECTOR

Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Feigie Ceitlin Affiliates:

Cong. Young Israel, Chabad at the University of Arizona, Chabad on River, Chabad of Oro Valley, Chabad of Sierra Vista, Chabad Jewish Center of Vail and Lamplighter Chabad Day School of Tucson

By Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin

There’s more to the menorah than meets the eye.

Chanukah celebrates the victory of the Jewish people over their Syrian-Greek oppressors who had defiled the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in the second century BCE. The rededication of the Holy Temple was highlighted by the kindling of the menorah with a small amount of oil, an amount expected to last only one day.

That oil miraculously lasted for eight days instead of one.

And as many believe, the menorah was “of pure gold,” just as G-d directed Moses to build it (Exodus 25; 31).

Except that this one wasn’t.

EDITOR

Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin COPY EDITORS

Suzanne Cummins CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marsha Blitzer, Feigie Ceitlin, Libby Herz, Miriam Karp, Rivka Katz, Menachem Posner, Mordechai Schmutter, Benjamin Weiss PHOTOS

Jay Litvin (cover photo), Jacqueline Soffer, Ri Butov SPECIAL THANKS

Chabad.org, Kehot Publication Society EDITORIAL INQUIRIES OR ADVERTISING

Phone: 520-955-9680 Email: info@ChabadTucson

Keeping Jewish is published in print periodically by Chabad Tucson and is distributed free in Tucson and around Southern Arizona.

Chabad Tucson does not endorse any products or services reported about or advertised in Keeping Jewish unless specifically noted. The acceptance of advertising in Keeping Jewish does not constitute a recommendation, approval or other representation of quality of products or services, or the credibility of any claims made by advertisers including, but not limited to, the kashrus of advertised food products. The use of any products or services advertised in Keeping Jewish is solely at the user’s risk and Chabad Tucson accepts no responsibility or liability in connection therewith.

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Note: “G-d” and “L-rd” are written with a hyphen instead of an “o”. This is one way we accord reverence to the sacred divine name. This also reminds us that, even as we seek G-d, He transcends any human effort to describe His reality.

As it turns out, the Syrian Greeks didn’t just defile the temple. They also looted it.

When the Maccabees retook the Temple, they found the precious vessels and implements of the Temple missing ( including the famed golden menorah). These things had been carted off to adorn some nobleman’s palace.

They could have called it quits right then and there. After all, G-d told them to kindle a golden menorah, and this they could not do. But the Maccabees realized something powerful: the golden menorah existed to serve as an implement with which to bring light into this world. But if that implement is gone, the light must still be lit. The show must go on.

So they built a menorah out of wood because that was what they had. And they lit the wooden menorah, and the oil miraculously lasted for eight days. But they didn’t lose track of the goal: to elevate the world. So when they scraped together some funds, they upgraded to a menorah made out of cheap metal. Later on, they were able to buy a silver one. And finally, they built a gold menorah once more (see Talmud Avodah Zarah 43a).

They did the best they could with what they had.

Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin and his daughter Goldie Ceitlin

The saying, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade” has truth to it. G-d gives each of us a unique set of circumstances, abilities, and resources. The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, explained that the very fact that you find yourself in a difficult situation means that you have the unique power to elevate that situation.

She demonstrated this at a tender age when she joined the annual Mega Challah Bake we host. With 250 women in the crowd, my wife Feigie asked if anyone was familiar with the challah-braiding technique, and could help others. Immediately, five-year-old Goldie hopped on a chair and said “I know how to braid! I can help people!”

If you have talents, you have the unique mission of elevating those talents by using them for good. If you have resources, you can use them to accomplish something positive. If you have silver, build a silver menorah. If you have gold, build a gold menorah. We aim high but work with what we have.

She could hardly reach the table. She couldn’t lift the bulky mixing bowls. But she didn’t get caught up in that. She was doing the best she could with what she had and gladly assisted others.

This Chanukah, my family will be celebrating the Bat Mitzvah of my daughter, Goldie. The Bat Mitzvah is a rite of passage for Jewish girls, celebrated upon their reaching the age of 12. It marks the age at which our little girl becomes a Jewish woman, with the opportunities and responsibilities that come along with that.

I’ve always thought of our Goldie as a Chanukah baby, and not just because she was born on the sixth day of the holiday.

Like the Maccabees, Goldie has a knack for doing the best she can with the abilities and knowledge she possesses.

As my family and I celebrate Chanukah (and Goldie’s Bat Mitzvah) this year, I will be reflecting on how we all can use the resources G-d has given us to make the world around us a better place. Maybe we don’t have it all. Maybe our menorahs are made of tin or wood instead of silver or gold. But it’s our job to elevate what we do have.

Like Goldie — and like the Maccabees before her — let’s bring more light into the world, however we can.

- Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin is the Outreach Director of Chabad Tucson

NEWS

Chanukah to be celebrated across Southern Arizona Chabad centers in Southern Arizona will hold dozens of Chanukah events and community celebrations which will include igniting large menorahs at public locations throughout the eight-day holiday.

In preparation for the Festival of Lights, Chabad is distributing free Menorah kits that include a shiny tin Menorah, colorful candles, a dreidel and text of the blessings. Classes on the meaning of Chanukah are presented by both rabbis and rebbetzins.

Chabad rabbis and volunteers will be visiting and leading celebrations at the retirement and assisted living communities of Handmaker, Atria Campana del Rio, Amber Lights, Atria Valley Manor, Villa Hermosa, Fairwinds Desert Point, Sonora at Splendido, Mountain View Retirement Village, The Country Club of La Cholla and others.

The following events will be open to the wider public and free of charge: Sunday, Nov. 28 5:00 PM - Chanukah at Downtown Tucson by Chabad Tucson with the lighting of Tucson’s tallest Menorah, music, glow-themed crafts, Chanukah treats and more. Held at El Presidio Park, outside Tucson City Hall, 165 W

Alameda St. 4:30 PM - Oro Valley Grand Chanukah Celebration by Chabad of Oro Valley with a Menorah lighting, acrobatic performance and music. Held at Gaslight Music Hall - Rancho Vistoso Center, 13005 N Oracle Rd #165.

5:00 PM - Chanukah party by Chabad on River with Menorah lighting, words of inspiration and refreshments. Held at the rabbi’s residence (Details: rabbitucson@gmail.com) 4:30 PM - Vail Chanukah celebration by Chabad of Vail with Menorah lighting, latkes, donuts, music and kids crafts. Held at Purple Heart Park, 9800 E Rita Rd. 4:30 PM - Sierra Vista Chanukah celebration by Chabad of Sierra Vista with Menorah lighting, latkes, donuts, music and more. Held Veterans Memorial Park, 3105 E. Fry Blvd.

Monday, Nov. 29 4:30 PM - Benson Chanukah celebration by Chabad of Sierra Vista with Menorah lighting, latkes, donuts, music and more. Held at the Visitor Center, 249 E 4th St.\ Wednesday, Dec. 1

A Chanukah celebration in Sahuarita, Arizona

4:30 PM - Ft. Huachuca Chanukah celebration by Chabad of Sierra Vista with Menorah lighting, latkes, donuts, music and more. Held at the Post Exchange Building 52030.

5:00 PM - Community Chanukah Party by Chabad of Vail with Menorah lighting, latkes, donuts and music. Held at Voyager Resort - Santa Rita Room, 8701 S. Kolb Rd. Thursday, Dec. 2 4:30 PM - Bisbee Chanukah celebration by Chabad of Sierra Vista with Menorah lighting, latkes, donuts, music and more. Held at the Grassy Park by the Cooper Queen.\

7:00 PM - Student Chanukah celebration by Chabad at the University of Arizona with Menorah lighting and treats.

Held at the UA Mall.

Shabbos, Dec. 4 9:30 AM - Shabbos Chanukah & Rosh Chodesh - a special service with 3 Torah scrolls and a guest sermon followed by a holiday-themed kiddush meal. Held at Chabad Tucson - Young Israel, 2443 E 4th St. Sunday, Dec. 5 5:00 PM - Oro Valley Chanukah event

by Chabad of Oro Valley with a Menorah lighting ceremony. Held at Oro Valley Public Library, 1305 W Naranja Dr.

Archaeologists unearth fortress from Chanukah battle Excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority at the Lachish Forest in the Judean Shephelah uncovered a Hellenistic fortress that was destroyed and burned by the Hasmoneans (Maccabees).

Weapons, charred wooden beams, and dozens of coins currently being unearthed at the fortress provide tangible evidence of a battle between the Hasmoneans and the Seleucids 2,100 years ago.

“The excavation provides tangible evidence of the Hanukkah story,” said Saar Ganor, Vladik Lifshits, and Ahinoam

Montagu, who led the excavation. “It appears that we have discovered a fortress, part of a fortified line erected by the Hellenistic army commanders, built to protect the large Hellenistic city of Maresha from Hasmonean offensives.

However, the finds from the site show that the Seleucid defenses were unsuccessful, and the building was badly burnt by the Hasmonean forces.”

During the excavation, thousands of collapsed stones were removed, revealing a massive half a meter thick destruction layer. Within the destruction layer, hundreds of finds dated to the late second century BCE were found,

including pottery, slingshots, iron weapons, burnt wooden beams, and dozens of coins.

The Hasmonean rebellion against Hellenistic rule and the Seleucid dynasty was initiated after the anti-Jewish decrees of Antiochus IV and led to the Hasmonean state’s southward expansion as described in the Books of the Maccabees and writings of the historian Josephus.

After the excavations, the fortress will undergo conservation and will be opened to the public as part of the Jewish National Fund’s Kings of Judah Road project currently under development.

Vladik Lifshits and Dr. Yael Abadi-Reiss, Israel Antiquities Authority

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FEATURE

Lights against all odds The story of Tucson’s tallest Menorah and others that have prevailed over resistance

By Libby Herz On Sunday, November 28, the first night of Chanukah, Tucson’s tallest Menorah will be lit in a joyous ceremony for the 38th time. It will be one of more than 15,000 large public menorahs sponsored by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement in more than 100 countries, helping children and adults of all walks of life discover and enjoy Chanukah.

Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates the Maccabees’ victory over the Syrian-Greek rulers who tried to force Jews to abandon the Torah and their faith in G-d. The Maccabees, a small group of learners turned warriors, won the war against the formidable Greek army against all odds.

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Then, they returned to celebrate and praise G-d at the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. To their horror, they found the

Temple in shambles. The Greek soldiers had destroyed and defiled the Temple.

The Jewish people got to work, fixing and cleaning and soon re-dedicated the Holy Temple by lighting the Menorah. The little pure olive oil they found miraculously lasted for eight days.

Today, public menorah lightings have become a Jewish tradition that celebrates the ability to practice Judaism proudly and publicly. Menorahs are lit all over the world in heart-warming ceremonies, including at the White House and government buildings and shopping malls and stadiums across the United States.

While Jews look forward to public menorah lightings each year, some recall a time when these public displays of Judaism were considered to be a controversial compromise of Church and State.

In 1989, for instance, a public menorah lighting in Pittsburgh made international

headlines in the case of County of Allegheny v. ACLU. In this case, the County of Allegheny claimed that the public display violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Ultimately, after months of deliberation, six of the justices concluded that the menorah was constitutionally legitimate due to its universal message of freedom of the spirit.

dom from tyranny and oppression, and the ultimate victory of good over evil.”

“I certainly don’t think that the fears of those who argue that the Church-State Separation would be forever undermined by the putting of a Chanukah menorah on the streets turned out to be the case,” says Jonathan Sarna, Professor of American Jewish History of Brandeis University.

In Tucson, Arizona, the very first public menorah lighting took place in 1983 at El Presidio Park in Downtown Tucson. The three acres of green space, a rose garden, veterans memorials and art installations is surrounded by the Old County Courthouse, City Hall of Tucson and the Pima County Administration.

Moreover, as the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, wrote in a letter to the Jewish community in Teaneck, New Jersey, the menorah symbolizes a “universal message of freedom of the human spirit, free-

“I was so new in town, I didn’t even know where El Presidio Park was,” says the Brooklyn-born Rabbi Yoseph Shemtov. He soon learned about the storied history of the plaza which was first used as a park in 1776 and later served as a

Public menorah lightings now take place all over the world, including at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, in front of the Bank of China in Hong Kong, the Kremlin in Moscow’s Red Square and beside the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

military garrison for the Spanish and American settlers.

Under Shemtov’s guidance, an architect drew up the plans for an impressive 13foot gold-colored candelabra made of thick steel branches. Shortly afterward, Shemtov acquired a permit for the menorah.

“I remember the first time the candles were lit,” says former Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, who was a young attorney and community activist at the time.

“I remember seeing a large group of Orthodox Jewish folks in long black robes and hats. People walked by and said, ‘What’s this?’ Rabbi Yossie called to them ‘Come over!’ The people came over, and it was so good to see. It’s the philosophy that Chabad puts out there that Judaism is very encompassing and welcoming.”

Years later, in 2011, Rothschild returned to light the menorah on the very first night of Chanukah, but this time, he was the Mayor of Tucson. “I was thrilled to see so many young people from around the sion, and country participating and enjoying Tucevil.” son outdoors, in December, singing and enjoying our Festival of Lights,” he says. take plat Berlin’s But like many public menorahs before, the Bank the Tucson public menorah lighting was remlin in threatened one year. e the EifA few nights before Chanukah, Rabbi Shemtov received a phone call from rst public an attorney from the Tucson Parks De983 at El partment. cson. The e garden, “Rabbi Shemtov,” he said, “You can tallations no longer light the menorah at Presidio nty Cour- Park.” the Pima The rabbi was bewildered.

dn’t even “Why not?” he asked. as,” says eph She- “Lighting a menorah is a religious dise storied play. Being that it is on public property, first used there is a clear breach of the separation rved as a of Church and State in the establishment

clause,” said the attorney.

“But you erect a Christmas tree each year,” said the rabbi.

There was silence on the other line.

“Alright,” the attorney finally said, “but this year, the menorah must be erected in a different location.”

The Rabbi was filled with relief.

“But we won’t provide you with a scaffold,” said the attorney, referring to the scaffold erected by former Tucson Mayor George Miller.

Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and Rabbi Yossie Shemtov light Chabad Tucson’s Menorah in Downtown Tucson, Chanukah 2011

The rabbi acquiesced.

“Additionally,” the attorney said, “the menorah must include a sign stating that it is owned and funded by a private organization.”

Comforted that the menorah could be lit legally, Shemtov agreed to the terms.

And that Chanukah, the 13-foot menorah was lit on each of the eight nights of Chanukah.

Since then, many leaders from the Jewish communities in and around Tucson have lit the menorah.

“Every year, the downtown menorah has a uniqueness of its own,” Rabbi Shemtov says.

Each year, the lighting attracts people of all ages, drawing them to the Jewish traditions - and many for the first time. In the spirit of Chanukah, public menorahs have inspired countless Jews to learn about their Judaism and non-Jews to appreciate its timeless message. They enjoy the ceremony, the good food, and most of all, the chance to add light to the world.

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JUDAISM 101

Light up the night A companion to help you celebrate Chanukah at home

By Menachem Posner The holiday of Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days. This year: Sunday evening, November 28, 2021, through Monday, December 6, 2021 At the heart of the festival is the nightly menorah lighting. The menorah holds nine flames, one of which is the shamash (“attendant”), which is used to kindle the other eight lights. On the first night, we light just one flame. On the second night, an additional flame is lit. By the eighth night of Chanukah, all eight lights are kindled.

The Chanukah lights are kindled every evening of Chanukah, containing enough fuel to burn for at least thirty minutes after nightfall.

On Friday night the menorah is lit before sunset, and on Saturday night it is lit after nightfall.

On the first night, set one candle to the far right of the menorah. On the following night, add a second light to the left of the first one, and then add one light each night of Chanukah - moving from right to left. Each night, light the newest (leftmost) candle first and continue lighting from left to right. (We add lights to the menorah from right to left, while we light from left to right.)

A menorah is lit in every household (or even by each individual within the household). You can set up the menorah in a central doorway. Place it on a chair or small table near the doorpost that is opposite the mezuzah. Or you can set up your menorah on a windowsill facing the street. This option should only be exercised if the window is less than thirty feet above ground level.

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The blessings on the Menorah The following two (or three) blessings

are said before the Chanukah menorah is lit.

First blessing: Bah-rookh ah-tah ah-doh-noi eh-lohhay-noo meh-lekh hah-oh-lahm ah-sher ki-deh-shah-noo beh-mitz-voh-tahv vehtzee-vah-noo leh-hahd-lik nayr kha-nookah Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah light.

Second blessing: Bah-rookh ah-tah ah-doh-noi eh-lohhay-noo meh-lekh hah-oh-lahm sheh-ahsah nee-sim lah-ah-voh-tay-noo bah-yahmim hah-haym biz-mahn hah-zeh Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our forefathers in those days, at this time.

Third blessing, recited only on the first

night (or the first time lighting this Chanukah):

ning Israeli favorite is the jelly-filled sufganya (doughnut).

Bah-rookh ah-tah ah-doh-noi eh-lohhay-noo meh-lekh hah-oh-lahm shehheh-kheh-yah-noo veh-kee-mah-noo vehig-ee-yah-noo liz-mahn hah-zeh

Many have the tradition to give Chanukah gelt, gifts of money, to children. In addition to rewarding positive behavior and devotion to Torah study, the cash gifts give the children the opportunity to give tzedakah (charity).

Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion.

The traditions We recite the special Hallel prayer daily, and add V’Al HaNissim in our daily prayers and the Grace After Meals (Birchat Hamazon), to offer praise and thanksgiving to G-d for “delivering the strong into the hands of the weak, the many into the hands of the few ... the wicked into the hands of the righteous.”

Since the Chanukah miracle involved oil, it is customary to eat foods fried in oil. The Eastern-European classic is the potato latke (pancake) garnished with applesauce or sour cream, and the reig-

Game on!

The classic dreidel is a four-sided spinning top made of wood, plastic, or the proverbial clay. On the four sides of the dreidel appear four letters from the Hebrew alphabet—nun, gimmel, hey and shin.

These four letters are an acronym for “nes gadol hayah sham”—”a great miracle happened there.” In Israel, the actual setting of the Chanukah miracle, the last letter, shin, is substituted with a pey, which stands for “po”—”here.”

Here’s what you need to get your dreidel game started: • In addition to dreidels, you’ll need the

-filled su- currency— nuts, pennies, nickels, chocolate coins, or just about anything else...

give Cha- • All players sit around the playing ildren. In area. behavior the cash • The currency is equally divided rtunity to amongst all players.

• Everyone takes a turn at spinning the dreidel; the one with the highest spin has the first turn. (Nun is highest, then ded spin- gimmel, hey, and shin.) If there is a tie r the pro- for highest, those who tied spin again. the dreie Hebrew • Everyone puts one unit of the currend shin. cy (penny, nut, etc.) into the pot.

onym for • The one who has the first turn is foeat mira- llowed in clockwise direction by all the he actual others. e, the last h a pey, If the dreidel lands on a...

Nun - Absolutely nothing happens. your drei- Nun stands for the Yiddish word nul, which means zero. It’s time for the player to your left to take a spin. need the

25 Kislev

By Marsha Blitzer

Unquestioning faith can’t be bought — not for a million shekels.

A miracle, like a dream, may tantalize, boost your mood, even trigger mania,

clouding your perception of the real world.

Or was Albert Einstein, right? Is reality a very persistent illusion?

Hey - You get to take half of the pot.

Hey stands for halb, half. If the pot has an odd amount of units, don’t try to split that penny, nut, or piece of chocolate in half. Leave the odd item there.

Gimel - You get to take the whole pot!

Gimmel stands for gantz, which means whole. Everyone, including you, now puts another unit into the pot, and the person to your left tries his luck at spinning.

Except for the birth of my sons, I don’t much believe in claims of miracles. Persistent darkness

has me unconvinced.

Once I took my mother on a tour of Poland.

We passed by the shrine at Czestochowa, famous for cures of cripples, crutches lining

its walls.

Auschwitz was just down the road. *************** After Tucson’s desert oven and monsoon floods,

the sun and moon are on the wane, they sink into obscurity. Days shorten, cold arrives.

Early mornings, tinsel-like frost coats succulents, our steep-sided arroyo is

nearly dry.

Shin - You put a unit into the pot. Shin is for shenk; yes, that means “give.”

We celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Rosh Chodesh Tevet, winter’s start, coincides with Hanukkah’s sixth night in 5782.

Soon after, the sun will reach the Tropic of Capricorn— solar darkness, winter solstice.

Tip: You can speed up the game by upping the ante, raising shin and post-gimmel contributions to two, three or even four units. Any player that cannot contribute after landing on a shin or after a fellow player lands on a gimmel, is out of the game. The game ends when there is one player left.

The Maccabees did not suffer from lack of faith.

They embraced the ineffable.

The Midrash says “Darkness was the kingdom

of the Greeks.” Victorious over their oppressors, the Maccabees got eight days of light from one cruse

of oil, rededicated the Temple on 25 Kislev, the very day the Greeks yearly desecrated the

Temple when they ruled Judea.

The Maccabees praised G-d and gave thanks.

For more on the holiday, visit www.

Chanukah.org

With the darkness of winter, we are like a herd of

javelina rooting for a bite to eat.

We light the Hanukkiah, implore G-d to renew the sun,

the moon, strengthen our vision of Torah, restore our fragile beliefs.

- Marsha Blitzer is a poet living in Tucson

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HUMOR

Latkes 101

Potatoes, large onion, shoes and a broken smoke alarm

By Mordechai Schmutter This is both a How-To-Make-LatkesGuide and a warning that making latkes can be hazardous to your health. (Eating them may be also a bit “iffy” but not the subject of this instructional piece).

Consider: Latkes are made from potatoes that are deep-fried in splattering oil in a room with a slippery floor that is full of onion fumes. Enough said.

YOU WILL NEED: - 1 gross of potatoes, give or take.

- 1 Hammer - 1 large onion. (Note that the word “large” is subjective, and cookbooks are very vague about it – but basically, the more potatoes you use, the bigger your onion had better be.)

- 3-12 Eggs, raw -5-16 cups all-purpose flour.

- Salt and pepper to taste. Actually, while we’re at it, why not just do everything to taste? Make a decision; it’s your cookbook. I’m just looking for something to blame if this isn’t good.

- Frying oil.

- 600 rolls of paper towels - Shoes. (Do not fry barefoot) - 1 signed permission slip from your doctor - First aid kit - Goggles INSTRUCTIONS:

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1. Remove all batteries from the smoke alarm, using the hammer. (Not doing this will definitely slow the process…)

2. Fill a pan with oil at least ankle

deep. Turn on the flame and start heating it.

3. While the oil is heating, peel the potatoes. Or don’t. You’re grating them and then frying them until they’re brown.

Who’s gonna know?

4. Put the potatoes in water to keep them from turning brown, or, if you’re not peeling them, to get the dirt off at least.

5. Grate the potatoes by feeding them, one at a time, through the top of a food processor. Some people prefer to use a hand grater, like the Chashmonaim did way back before we discovered potatoes.

The main difference, as far as we can tell, is that a food processor processes your food, while a hand grater grates your hand.

6. For the crispiest latkes, you want the potato shreds to be as dry as possible.

Squeeze out as much potato water as you can, using a cheesecloth (l’kovod Chanukah) or a dishtowel. Or put a towel in the driveway and back your car over it – it’s all good.

7. Peel your onion – or at least get the really papery parts off.

8. Shred the onion with a food processor or hand grater, and add to potatoes.

9. Wipe tears with the paper towels.

Make sure you can still breathe amidst the onion fumes.

10. Crack open eggs (one at a time) and add the good ones to the mixture.

11. Also add flour, salt, pepper, and note from your doctor. Now you’re ready for frying!

12. Start the frying process by eating a test latke to make sure it is good. If not, make some adjustments and run another test latke. Keep testing every batch.

Photo: slgckgc | Flickr

13. Make a new batch for everyone else. Start with a test latke.

14. When you see browning around the edges, flip the latkes.

19. Your house should smell like latkes until Pesach. Your eyebrows should grow back by Purim.

TIPS:

15. We don’t know how to tell when the second side is done. The edges are already brown. So just make a judgment call. You can always serve them pretty side up.

- If you want, you can substitute pretty much anything for potatoes – sweet potatoes, beets, turnips – and if you do that, no one will ask you to host Chanukah parties ever again.

16. When a latke is done, put it on 18 layers of paper towels.

-If the floor is slippery, try standing on 20 layers of paper towels.

17. Serve with paper towels, applesauce, sour cream, and a large refreshing glass of potato water.

To cut an onion with no tears, experts recommend chewing gum, cutting it underwater, putting the onion in the freezer, cutting it near a lit candle (or eight), and wearing goggles. Most of these methods have iffy results, so we recommend doing all of them at once. Good luck getting the candle to light underwater in the freezer.

18. When you serve the latkes, make sure to say, “These were so much better when I was noshing on them out of the pan.”

KOSHER

From Feigie’s kitchen: Zucchini latkes

By Feigie Ceitlin

We asked members of the Kosher in Tucson group on Facebook about their favorite topping/sides for latkes. Most preferred applesauce, either store-bought or homemade. Sour cream was another popular choice.

INGREDIENTS: 3 pounds zucchini 1 1/3 cups matza meal 3 large eggs, lightly beaten 2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)

Here are additional answers: Fig jam or beet relish Deb Siegel

DIRECTIONS: Step 1 - Grate zucchini shredding disk of a food processor. Line a bowl with a dish towel or cheesecloth. Transfer the zucchini into the bowl and toss with 2 teaspoons of salt. Let stand for 30 minutes.

Step 2 - Squeeze zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible. Transfer zucchini to a large bowl and stir in the matza meal, eggs and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Step 3 - Preheat oven to 200°F. Step 4 - Heat oil (about 1 inch high) in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Scoop 2 tablespoon mixture per latke into skillet (6 to 8 per batch).

Flatten with a fork to form 2 1/2-to 3-inch pancakes. Fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side (adding more oil as necessary). I like to add a piece of raw carrot about 2-3 inches long or a baby carrot, to the skillet. It helps keep the oil clean.

Transfer to a paper-towel-lined baking sheet and keep warm in oven.

Favorite sides

Photo by Jacqueline Soffer

* The blessing: Ha’Adamah “Fruits of the ground” include vegetables, legumes, peanuts, and the “fruit” excluded from the ha-aitz blessing: melons, bananas, pineapples, some berries.

Baruch atah A-donay, Elo-heinu Melech Ha’Olam borei pri ha-adamah.

Blessed are You, L-rd our G‑d, King of the universe who creates the fruit of the earth.

Bon appetit!

— Feigie Ceitlin is the program director of Chabad Tucson

Sour cream and smoked salmon Meryl Bressler Jalapeño ketchup Michael Stan Cinnamon sugar Cathy Libman Olswing

Brisket!

Lev Metz

Homemade applesauce. I like to mix paprika, cayenne, garlic, cinnamon and onion powder Ruby May Valentine I’m with the majority, applesauce, but I like mine heated!

Jennifer Tougas Sour cream or lox!

Pam Siegel Zarte Sour cream and caviar Fran Krevat Krackow Vegan sour cream and plain applesauce on top of vegan latkes, of course.

Lori Riegel

Help Seniors in Our Community Through the AZ Tax Credit You can support seniors who attend SandRuby, a comprehensive adult community program in Tucson, through the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit.

Individuals may contribute up to $400 Married couples filing jointly may contribute up to $800 Deadline is April 15, 2022, or when you file your taxes Donors need to use Qualifying Charitable Organization, or "QCO" code 20051 to get credit on their income tax return

The Arizona Charitable Tax Credit is a dollarfor-dollar tax credit that empowers you to redirect your state tax liability to support the work of SandRuby, a member of the Handmaker family of services.

Donate now at www.sandrubycp.org/donate or call (520) 322-3622

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BOOKS

Worth the read

The newest additions to the Jewish bookshelf

By Rivka Katz STUDY

Title: Lightpoints Author: Baruch Shalom Davidson Publisher: Kehot Publication Society & Or Hachassidus Pages: 688 The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teachings opened gateways to a greater understanding and appreciation of Torah texts, commentaries, and lessons. Lightpoints is a taste of Rebbe’s teachings in a reader-friendly format. The book contains a collection of thoughts some of which are translated into English for the first time.

Though the points are light and easy to read, each concept sheds light on Torah, a torch that illuminates life.

Title: The Shabbos Kitchen Author: Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen Publisher: Artscroll Mesorah Publications Pages: 440

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Shabbos is a day of rest that has many detailed halachos to ensure that this sacred day is kept accordingly. Although Shabbos remains a constant, the halachos have become more complex with the advancement of technology. The first edition of The Shabbos Kitchen was written thirty years ago as a comprehensive Halachic guide to the preparation of food and other halachic activities in the kitchen on Shabbos. As new questions arose over time, the need for this newest edition, a revised and expanded Shabbos halachic guide, has been necessary. The updated edition is chock-full of modernday kitchen queries and scenarios.

Title: Gate of TrustShaar Bitachon Author: Rabbeinu Bachya Ibn Pekuda Publisher: Kehot Publication Society & Chayenu Pages: 688 It is difficult to remain calm and collected through global or personal turmoil.

The Gate of Trust is compiled from the original teaching of an eleventh-century scholar, Rabbeinu Bachya Ibn Pekuda, and his work “Chovos Halaevavos” (Duties of the Heart). This new Felig Edition makes the work accessible with a side-by-side English translation, as it takes you from chaos to calm. The book is peppered with Chassidic insights and practical takeaways.

HEALTH Title: Creating a Life that Matters Author: Rabbi Manis Friedman, Rivkah Goldstein Publisher: It’s Good to Know Publishing Pages: 402 Challenges can blur lines making it difficult to navigate life. Creating a Life that Matters by world-renowned speaker Rabbi Manis Friedman and Rivkah Goldstein is a provocative guide to finding meaning while navigating the complexities of our world. Though unconventional in style, the book addresses real-life matters like relationships, finding purpose, and developing a deeper connection with G-d.

LIFE

Title: More Than Special Author: Ahava Ehrenpreis Publisher: ArtScroll Shaar Press Pages: 358 Some heroes wear capes, while other heroes silently forge on. In More than Special, author Ahava Ehrenpreis, a mother of a young man with special needs, shares the voices of the silent heroes who lovingly raise children with special needs. Ahava’s son Sadya, an individual who accomplished beyond what doctor’s envisioned he would, passed away from Covid-19. Filled with inspiration on how to be more loving despite our differences, this book also gives practical advice on ensuring safety and inclusivity for individuals with special needs.

Title: Talking Divorce Author: Zalman Goldstein Publisher: The Jewish Learning Group Pages: 304 When seeking counsel and advice, helpful guidance stems from reliable sources. Talking Divorce is a Torah-based guide for navigating and surviving difficult relationship decisions. Taking the no-nonsense route, Talking Divorce discusses the intricacies of relationships and provides practical guidance from rabbis, attorneys, and mental health professionals.

Title: Amazing Hypnotherapy Tales Author: Bracha Pearl Toporowitch, CHT Publisher: Mosaic Press Pages: 204 There’s an intrinsic connection between the human body and mind. Hypnotherapy Tales by Bracha Pearl Toporowitch, a hypnotherapist since 1999, shares personal accounts of patients she’s encountered who tapped into their mind-body relationship as a resource and catalyst for change. Instead of allowing destructive thoughts to trigger detrimental responses, Toporowitch describes how hypnotherapy has been able to guide people to reframe their negative thoughts and begin the healing process.

Title: Healthy in Body, Mind, and SpiritMental Health Author: Sholem B. Wineberg Publisher: Kehot Publication Society & Chayenu Pages: 328 As mental health awareness is on the rise, people are seeking perspective on how to deal with mental illness and the toll it can take in one’s life. Healthy in Body, Mind, and Spirit- Mental Health is a compilation of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s letters in which he discusses mental health. The Rebbe’s correspondence gives insight into dealing with anxiety, exploring tools like meditation to help regain calm, and maintaining mental equilibrium.

BOOKS

HISTORY

YOUTH

Title: The Desert Encampments Author: Alexander Hool Publisher: Mosaica Press Pages: 126

After receiving the Torah at Mt. Sinai, Jews spent forty years living a nomadic life as they traveled toward the Promised Land. Some events that occurred in those forty years are referenced in cryptic verses in the Torah. Those verses are explored in the book In The Desert Encampment by Rabbi Alexander Hool, a scholar with expertise in history among other things.

Title: In the Company of Prophets Author: Dr. Moshe Sokolow Publisher: Kodesh Press Pages: 227

As with any new endeavor, beginnings are hard. It takes time, work, and effort, to pivot into an established routine. So it was with the Jewish people as they built themselves into a standing nation. Dr. Moshe Sokolow examines the political history of the Jewish People as determined by the Jewish prophets.

Title: Silent Childhood Author: Sarah Richter Publisher: Israel Bookshop Publications Pages: 191

Silent Childhood is a gripping memoir of the Holocaust from a child’s perspective. Sarah Richter speaks of her childhood - living in silence about the terror as she experienced it. Surviving with only her mother and little brother, Sarah speaks of her mother’s unwavering courage as this small family faced the challenges of survival. This heart-wrenching story gives a personal feel to the tumultuous times of both the Holocaust and liberation.

Title: To Tell the Story Author: Rachel Stein Publisher: Israel Bookshop Publications Pages: 216

The survivors of the Holocaust were (and are) people with stories, experiences, and voices. In To Tell the Story, Rachel Stein gives voice to thirteen survivors who faced the unthinkable with courage, perseverance, and steadfast faith.

Title: Between You and Me Author: Between Carpools LLC Publisher: Artscroll Shaar Press Pages: 328

Title: And so is Hashem Author: Aura Dwek Publisher: Hachai Publishers Pages: 16

Geared for ages 7-13, Between You and Me is an empowering journal encouraging kids to discover themselves and what makes them unique. With over 300 pages of questions and activities for children to explore, this kids journal pushes children to have fun through self-exploration. This entertaining journal was created by Between Carpools, a group of Jewish women who provide lifestyle advice and hacks for busy, Jewish women.

Though catering to a very young audience, And So is Hashem takes a simply brilliant concept from the Mishna in Ethics of our Fathers and presents it for a child to understand. This book takes children through different experiences bringing to life the idea that “anyone who pleases others by acting in a way that is good and right, pleases Hashem, as well.”

Title: Pretty Please with a Cherry on Top and Other Stories Author: Rachel Stein Publisher: Feldheim Publishers Pages: 123

Title: Sickly Sweet - Comics Author: M. M. Hershkowitz Publisher: Lechaim Publishers Pages: 81

Pretty Please with a Cherry on Top and Other Stories presents twelve stories about children coping with challenges, navigating discomfort, and thinking through choices. Rachel Stein’s stories help kids gain life skills and learn more about themselves.

Sickly Sweet is an exhilarating comic centered around a suspenseful mystery.

Belgian boys discover a cargo of candy and the excitement begins. The story is a hair-raising story and the boys are courageous and bold while adhering to their values and Halacha.

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VOICES

Coffee and scribbles on a Jerusalem morning

By Miriam Karp On a crisp spring morning, I found myself in a lovely, almost surreal setting: an upscale cafe in a quaint, artsy village in Mishkenot Sha’ananim, the first Jewish neighborhood built outside the Old City in late 1860. I sat both matter of factly and full of wonder, sipping pungent coffee on the balcony in continental comfort, overlooking those cherished walls of Mount Zion and the Old City.

I gazed across the busy highway below, up a steep hill that throngs of people were walking up—pilgrims with a song on their lips. They disappeared inside a stoned arch, Jaffa Gate, to approach a golden timeless holy place called the Kotel, to offer up a psalm, a sigh, a tear to the L-rd who made this all.

Embracing Mama: A battle-weary soldier embraces the wall in June 1967.

I, too, was there the other day to offer prayer for those in my life in need of healing, and for all the ill among the Jews and the people of our world.

But this morning I sat at the cafe as the cypress bloomed, the birds chirped, the traffic snaked slowly through those endlessly fascinating patient wise hills, now bedecked in spring verdant green. Come July, the parched hills will lay quietly under the fume spitting tour buses and thousands of sandaled feet scurrying up their paths; they’ll welcome their returning children, the summer crowds, the Birthright, and tourist throngs, waiting thirstily for the winter rains and quieter days to fall again.

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Before I found the cafe, I strolled the village grounds—nestled under the protective sails of the Montefiore windmill— and saw this benefactor’s carriage on display. I was overwhelmed, imagining the courage, the caring, and the chutzpah he had to travel through hostile empires in a tiny carriage; the lack of comfort he must have endured. Down unmarked dirt roads through dense forests swarming with gangs, marauders and lurking danger. The vision and dedication he had just to cross the European continent and

My Land, My Garden: The sun sets over the ancient hills, a stone wall and a tree of life.

Seeking Refuge: Painted after a brutal terrorist attack, the blood-stained dove is nestled in the weary, comforting stones.

get here, but he came to give, to sustain.

He established the village to offer decent housing for the Jews cramped in the Old City and built the windmill to provide a livelihood.

meaning. As I slowly deciphered the Hebrew plaque, I was blinded by tears and a pang in my chest. What it took to secure, to sustain, to defend defies any comprehension.

That carriage is smaller than the minivans that adorn my neighborhood, which, as every suburban mom knows, are a must with heated bucket seats, video players and four-wheel drive. And, of course, you can’t travel without gasstation plazas every few miles to refresh, refuel and carouse the nosh aisles. But travel and endure and build Sir Montefiore did.

I tried to envision bombs falling mercilessly, Jordanian snipers picking off any movement, soldiers scurrying up these alleyways up to the walls, bursting into the gates, with screams, smoke, fire and anguish ... all so I can sit and drink this coffee, and a few miles over members of the Knesset can debate and argue, and across the road the pious and the hopeful, the cynical and the believers of every faith, color and creed can approach.

Walking through the neighborhood park, I happened on a small memorial for fallen soldiers, dedicated to this piece of precious land of depth, dreams and

I never tire of sitting near the Kotel, watching and listening to the many languages, styles and varieties of peoples

of this earth. Many appear more tourist than spiritual, laden with baseball caps and cameras. But whoever they are, their expressions subtly change, their faces reveal an inner yearning, as they walk up humbly and extend their hands, as they find a spark of hope and reverence and reach up to those quiet stones.

Hevel Hevalim, so much of what we do is fleeting and transient, says King Solomon in Ecclesiastes. Fleeting vanity. So much of our busy and scurrying importance is laughably empty dust, and what place knows it better than these patient stones, waiting for us to finally figure out what is enduring and real—and finally join hands to make this place, this city, this land, this globe, a garden that connects with Him in harmony.

VOICES

On the Jewish calendar: 10 Tevet Tuesday, December 14, 2021 On the 10th of Tevet of the year 3336 from Creation (425 BCE), the armies of the Babylonian emperor Nebuchadnezzar laid siege to Jerusalem. Thirty months later -- on Tammuz 17, 3338 -- the city walls were breached, and on 9 Av of that year, the Holy Temple was destroyed.

The Jewish people were exiled to Babylonia for 70 years.

Asarah B’Tevet, as it is called, is observed as a day of fasting, mourning and repentance, in remembrance of

the siege of Jerusalem. We refrain from food and drink from daybreak to nightfall, and add the Selichot and other special supplements to our prayers.

More recently, the 10th of Tevet was chosen to also serve as a “general kaddish day” for the victims of the Holocaust, many of whose day of martyrdom is unknown.

In Tucson, the fast begins at 5:56 AM and ends at 5:49 PM.

From the Heart: Women often come to the Kotel with a raw intimate immediacy

Here, in Jerusalem, by the Gates of Zion, you can taste it, feel it, breathe it.

The air itself is sweet and laden with a deeper reality. It hints and beckons and calls. Wake up, sweet souls. You’re real. I, G‑d, am real. Let’s be who our hearts and souls know we really are.

One day. Soon. The sweet throngs of humanity standing at the wall, their ear‑ nest quiet prayers reach up, the happy bustling sounds at the falafel cafe just up the stairs, the beckoning azure sky and wispy filament of clouds say it’s possible.

Maybe today.

“Our feet were standing within your gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem that is built like a city in which all Israel is uni‑ ted together. Pray for the peace of Jeru‑ salem. May all those who love you have peace.” (Psalm 122) --Miriam Karp is an award-winning writer, artist, Judaic studies teacher and lecturer. Her paintings explore intimate moments in Jewish life. Her first book, Painting Zaidy’s Dream: A Memoir of a Searching Soul, shares her story of search. She lives in Cincinnati with her husband and family.

Mazel Tov Ilene k anefsky On the sale of your home.

Simchas in the years ahead.

Madeline Friedman Vice President, ABR, CRS, GRI

520.907.4141 TucsonHomeFinder@aol.com www.TucsonAZHomes.com

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LOCAL

Welcome to town:

Bill Pozez

From left: Volunteer Bill Pozez, Rabbi Yossie Shemtov and Executive Chef Claire Wilmouth coordinate a Kosher Meals on Wheels delivery. The program is run by Chabad Tucson, Handmaker Jewish Services for the Aging and Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona

By Benjamin Weiss Bill Pozez is the son of Shaol and Evelyn Pozez, of blessed memory, who were noted business leaders and philanthropists in the Tucson community. Bill lived in Langhorne Borough in Bucks County, Pennsylvania until he moved to Tucson. There he served as assistant gabbai at Lubavitch of Bucks County in Newtown.

How long have you been in Tucson?

A month.

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What brought you here?

It was time to move out to be closer to my sister and brother.

Compared to your hometown, Tucson is...

It’s warmer! I like the climate here better.

A hobby: I like helping people, getting out and being outdoors.

Giving back: I volunteer with the Kosher Meals on Wheels in Tucson. Since I arrived, I have delivered over 100 meals.

A favorite Mitzvah/holiday: Passover. The family gets together, we have Matzah and good food. I never tire of the story of the Exodus, the Ten Plagues and the splitting of the red sea.

A cherished Jewish memory: My Bar Mitzvah as an adult at Chabad and having everyone come celebrate.

It was the best thing in my life.

Jewish app on phone: I have a flip phone...

Go-to Yiddish or Hebrew word: Toda Rabba. I say it all the time. It means Thank you very much.

A historical Jewish figure: I connect more with the living rabbis who have been teaching me a lot.

Chabad: It’s where I feel at home and everyone likes me.

Comfort food: I like potato kugel. Right out of the oven, not when it’s cold.

Happiness: Seeing people.

Kvetch: When things don’t get done the way they should.

Kvell: When I say “Shema Yisroel” and carry the Torah scroll.

To recommend a new resident in town to interview, email: info@ChabadTucson.com

FUN PAGE

Chanukah word scramble

Unscramble these words to discover a holiday vocabulary

1. OERMHAN

______________________________

2. EACAEMCSB

______________________________

3. KELTAS

______________________________

4. ACLREMI

______________________________

5. ANDCESL

______________________________

6. EDELRDI

______________________________

7. TGEL

______________________________

8. EVOIL LIO

______________________________

9. JLERUSAME

______________________________

10. EGESRK

______________________________

11. MHSHSAA

______________________________

12. LPMTEE

______________________________

13. FTAYGNISUO

______________________________

14. LALLEH

______________________________

15. CETOLOCAH NSCIO ____________________________ 16. LA MISHAIN

______________________________

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For home mailing, subscribe at www.ChabadTucson.com/SubscribePrint Pick up your copy at Chabad Tucson, Chabad on River, Chabad Oro Valley, Chabad of Sierra Vista, Al Basha Grocery, Coffee X Change and Handmaker Jewish Services For Aging.

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BH

Tax credit donations made on Tuesday, November 30th will be MATCHED with a scholarship of equal amount.

Donations can be made at: www.ChabadTucson.com/GivingTuesday or by calling 480-409-4106