Arizona Jewish Life January 2019 Vol. 7/Issue 3 by JewishLifeMagazine

JANUARY 2019

JUSTICE FOR ALLISON How a chance encounter in Poland helped a couple find their daughter's killer

INSIDE

Jewish Film Festival season has begun

Eye on Education

Thinking outside the box

Jewish Rock Radio's newest AZ star

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 1

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CO N TE N TS Arizona Jewish Life • January 2019 • Tevet-Shevat 5779 • Volume 7/Issue 3

FEATURES COVER STORY

Justice for Allison 18 JEWS WITH ATTITUDE Q & A with founders of Illumination, Symphony of Light 12

BUSINESS Stuart Wachs: From Jewish communal worker to technology partner Biz Ins & Outs FRONT & CENTER Tucson International Jewish Film Festival schedule Save the date for the West Valley Jewish Film Festival Surrealistic Artist Ora Tamir travels from Israel to participate in Arizona Fine Art EXPO

14 16

38 41

JKIDS & TEENS TOO Ellie Fern – local artist wins title of Jewish Star 44 Teens gather to enjoy interfaith Shabbat 45 HOME & LIFESTYLE This house feels so Wright New Year New You

46 47

FOOD Chef’s Corner: Wings gone wild

ACTIVELY SENIOR Survivor’s reunion in Paris – part deux

ISRAEL Journalists enjoy multiple aspects of Israel

YOUNG ADULTS The souper heroes of ASU

52 6 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

COLUMNS Chef’s Corner by Lucia Schnitzer To Life! by Amy Hirshberg Lederman

49 55

EYE ON EDUC ATION Tikkun Olam requires education STEM at play CertiStar helps those with food allergies Menachem Mendel Academy Backpack safety LINK – A middle school Israel educational program It’s full STEAM ahead as Pardes celebrates 25 years Jewish Tuition Organization broadens Scholarship Policy Gateway Academy to celebrate school choice with opening of virtual reality lab Unveiling the Daniel Pollack Playground Education tutoring and consultation services

24 25 26 30 31

32 34 34 36 37 37

JLIVING To Life! If only I could stop the clock right now 55 JDAIM events in February 56 Federation notes 57 Faces & Places 58 Previews 60 Calendar 62

ON THE COVER: Allison Feldman PHOTO COURTESY THE FELDMAN FAMILY

n i o J

y t i n u m m o C h s i w e J e th Create Your Own Jewish Adventure KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

ED ASNER Actor, Activist and Author

A Day of Jewish Learning for the Whole Community

SUN, FEBRUARY 10, 2019 | 9AM-4PM*

Mr. Asner will be joined by family members to discuss their new special needs-based project, The Ed Asner Family Center

PLUS, check out JUST A FEW of the fabulous speakers & topics you’ll be treating yourself to at LimmudAZ 2019!

ASU Memorial Union Conference Center, Tempe

(A full listing is available at: limmudaz.org/schedule)

A Celebration of Jewish Learning & Culture Discuss. Explore. Engage. Grow.

o Klezmer the Musical

LimmudAZ is a gathering of hundreds of Jews from a diverse range of Jewish backgrounds, lifestyles and of all ages. The day offers a full schedule of workshops, lectures, discussions, arts, music, text-study sessions & much more! All welcome.

Connection to Our Jewish Soul Michael Steingart o Challenge Yourself: Put on a IDF Uniform & Learn About Israel Firsthand Mindy Franklin o A Holocausts Survival Story in Her Own Words Charlotte Adelman o Latin American Jewish Photographers David William Foster o Jews and Slavery in Historical Context Stanley Mirvis o Sacred Exile: The Meor Einayim on Parshat B’reisheet Rabbi Michael Wasserman o Dance Fusion: Israeli Folk Dancing Linda Simon o Hidden Ones: A Veil of Memories Marcia Fine

Limmud Kidz provides programming for children in preK to 5th grade. A dairy, nut-free lunch and snacks are included. Children ages 11+ may attend LimmudAZ presentations with their parents at the discretion of the parent. (Babysitting is available for children ages 0-3.) *The framework of the day is set up to be flexible. Participants are welcome to drop into or skip sessions.

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.org | info

o About Wise Aging

Harriet Rosen

o Weird, Bizzare and

Hilarious Judaism Hershl Weberman o The Mayor of Jackson Heights Cary Silverstein o Yoga Nidra for Awakening Joy Amy Tyre o Grandparenting in the Modern Age Larry Waldman o The Power of Prayer: Halleluyah! Elyse Goldstein o Creating a Hamsa Blessing Piece for Your Home Alicia Magal o “No Calorie” Hamantaschen Julie Schoen o Using Public Transit to Get to Jewish Events Moshe Apelas o Violins of Hope: Strings of the Holocaust Sheryl Bronkesh

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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 7

JANUARY 2019 A rizona Jewish Life • Tevet-Shevat 5779 • Volume 7/Issue 3

PU B LI S H E R

H OW TO R E AC H U S

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A DV E R TI S I N G A N D E D ITO R I A L D I R EC TO R Cindy Salt zman

E D ITO R- I N - C H I E F Mala Blomquis t

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Leni Reiss

ART DIREC TOR Philip Nerat

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PU B L I C AT I O N A N D D E A D L I N E S Arizona Jewish Life magazine is distributed on the first of the month. Story ideas for features and special sections are due 45-60 days prior to publication. BIZ INS & OUTS: Business news is due 4 weeks before publication. FACES & PLACES: Photos from past events are due about 20 days prior to publication. EVENTS: Information about upcoming events is due about 20 days prior to publication. CALENDAR: Please post events on our online calendar. Relevant events that are posted by the 10th of the month before publication will be included in the magazine. To request first-time authorization to post events online, go to azjewishlife.com and scroll down to the “calendar access request” link under “Quick Links” on the right. After you submit the form, you’ll receive an email with instructions for posting future event.

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2018-2019 MediaPort LLC All rights reserved The content and opinions in Arizona Jewish Life do not necessarily reflec t those of the publishers, staf f or contrac tors. Ar ticles and columns are for informational purposes only and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Although ever y ef for t is made to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, Arizona Jewish Life, and its agents, publishers, employees and contrac tors will not be held responsible for the misuse of any information contained herein. The publishers reser ve the right to refuse any adver tisement. Publication of adver tisements does not constitute endorsement of produc ts or ser vices.

8 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

STORY BY

MEREDITH WILLSON AND FRANKLIN LACEY

BOOK, MUSIC AND LYRICS BY

MEREDITH WILLSON

DIRECTED BY

DAVID IVERS

“A JOYOUS THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE.” Envelopes the audience with memorable music, remarkable dance and fine acting and singing.” – ARIZONA DAILY STAR

“ATC’s The Music Man is truth and beauty and loads of fun.” – TUCSON WEEKLY

STORY BY

MEREDITH WILLSON AND FRANKLIN LACEY

BOOK, MUSIC AND LYRICS BY

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

CINDY SALTZMAN Publisher

We Cannot Be Silent Any Longer ALTHOUGH WE ARE KNOWN AS content creators for Jewish Lifestyle magazines, websites and social media, we are firm believers that the term “lifestyle” can be expanded beyond entertainment and engagement. One of our missions from the beginning has been to disseminate information, ideas and inspiration as a way to fight against hate, racism and antiSemitism. But in order to accomplish this, we must all be informed and armed with knowledge and the facts. What is happening on the campuses across our country and in Europe is real. Certainly, Jews are not the only targets, but there is no doubt that culturally it has become “hip” to be anti-Semitic, anti-Zionist and full on anti-Jew. AntiSemitism is no longer whispered behind closed doors at the country clubs and boardrooms. It is very much out in the open, celebrated among some and becoming legitimized in the classrooms

Subscriptions: azjewishlife.com/ magazine-subscription Newsletter: azjewishlife.com, click on “Subscribe Now!” Facebook/Twitter: @AZJewishLife Instagram: JEWISHLIFENOW Call: 602-538-AZJL (2955) 10 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

and on many college campuses. Shame has shifted from the perpetrators to the victims. Many Jewish students and professors are being attacked verbally, physically and emotionally and are fearful, angry or both. Most Jewish organizations have had security measures in place for decades, out of necessity. Well, folks, that security is now on steroids, again, out of necessity. We don’t have the answers, but we do have an incredible platform to help find answers. However, we need your help. Consider this an invitation to voice your ideas and concerns. This is at the top of our agenda for the coming year. None of us can afford to be on the sidelines. Starting right now – talk to us. Please begin by filling out the survey mentioned on the facing page or emailing us at publisher@ojlife.com.

Email us:

publisher@azjewishlife.com

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distribution@azjewishlife.com

events@azjewishlife.com

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 11

Jewswith

Attitude Q & A with founders of Illumination,

Symphony of Light By Cindy Saltzman The founding partners of Illumination, Symphony of Light, Sigal and Ronny Urman took time out of their busy schedule to answer some questions about their business, Illumination, Symphony of Light. The drive-through light show continues through Jan. 5 in North Phoenix at the I-17 and Jomax. Sigal and Ronny are partners in the business with co-founders Yakir Urman and Simon Kreisberger.

Q: Please give us a little background on you, your business and why you decided to expand your real estate investment business into holiday entertainment?

A: For the past decade, we have been residing in the Phoenix area. We have been involved in the real estate industry for most of our adult lives and have really enjoyed most aspects of it. Over the years, we had been approached by different people regarding investing in different business opportunities; however, this one really hit home to us. Immediately upon being pitched the idea, we knew this was something we would enjoy being a part of and most certainly something the community needed during the holiday season. We took the initial idea of a holiday light show and decided that we wanted to do more than build the same old, run of the mill holiday light experience people had seen over and over. We knew if we were going to associate our name with it, we wanted it to be the most technologically advanced show in the country. We wanted this to be something that people would not only enjoy but remember for their entire lives. We truly felt that if we were able to do this, we would create a new holiday tradition for the Valley.

12 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Q: What have you enjoyed most about bringing Illumination to the Valley?

A: Without a doubt, our favorite part about bringing Illumination to the Valley has been seeing kids, adults and families simply smiling, singing and having fun and enjoying the holiday experience together! We are very fortunate to be able to see the smiles, the laughs, the enjoyment nightly for nearly two months out of the year. At the end of the day, that truly does make all the hard work worth it.

Q: What has been the most challenging part of this business?

A: Any business is difficult, however incorporating so many unknowns of a new concept and doing something that had never been done before was certainly the most difficult aspect. We had a vision of what we wanted to do and working hard to ensure that vision was accomplished has been tough. We were fortunate enough to put together a top-notch team

around us which has helped to make Illumination a success. This has been a total team effort from the beginning. From our initial vision to implementation, our team has worked together diligently to ensure everything went off as planned. There have certainly been a lot of learning curves along the way, but we’ve been able to learn and adapt to each and every single roadblock.

Q: Do your friends find it amusing that you (as Israelis) are in this business?

A: The irony is certainly not lost on us. However, this light show is not about a single religion, ethnicity or anything else. It’s about us being able to provide a safe and fun event for friends and families to be able to enjoy during the hectic holiday season. It’s really all about making lasting memories that will truly last a lifetime for so many of our Valley residents. The team we have around us come from all different backgrounds and religions, each one of them has provided us with different perspectives and ideas based on their life experiences.

Q: Anything you would like to add?

A: We want people to know that Illumination is a place that friends and families can come out to and make lasting memories together. Our first year included one show in North Phoenix. This year we were fortunate enough to add a second location in Tempe. We have a few things up our sleeves for next year that we are very excited about and can’t wait to unveil to the public. The positive feedback we have received has been amazing throughout our first two years. We hope this is something we can continue providing to this wonderful community we are proud to call home! For more information, visit worldofillumination.com.

The great outdoors and the great indoors, all in one. Have you ever noticed that folks always say the great outdoors? Well, what about the great indoors? Can’t they be great, too? They sure can. And Maravilla Scottsdale is a perfect example. Some would say it’s about as beautiful as a retirement community can be. But here’s the best part. Maravilla is located smack-dab in the middle of the great outdoors, too. And you can take advantage of it all by joining one (or several) of our many active clubs. Come experience the great indoors AND outdoors for yourself at Maravilla Scottsdale. Call us to schedule your complimentary lunch and tour.

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BUSINESS

Stuart Wachs:

From Jewish communal work to technology partner center so problems can be addressed promptly to keep everyone

By Mala Blomquist

inside the plant safe and prevent equipment damage or plant

Although Stuart Wachs left Jewish communal work in 2017,

he takes many of the skills he honed over the past three decades into his work in the private sector.

He formed WachsField Technologies with partner Robert

“Max” Maxfield in the summer of 2018. The two met while

working at another company where Stuart was the COO and Max was the vice president of technology.

downtime.

As his business grows, Stuart also recognizes the importance

of forming partnerships, something he has been doing all of

his professional life. “We are entering this traditional industrial space and approach it from a very customer-centric mindset,” he says. “We are building around our core competencies and

aligning with the right partners to bring the best end result to our clients.”

“For the first 30 years of my

professional life, the successes in the

organizations I worked at benefitted the community,” says Stuart. “Now

because of what we are doing, it can provide safety for communities – it brings a unique lens.”

WachsField Technologies is an

industrial technology integration firm. Their clients consist of large manufacturers and municipalities, the federal government, state or private entities that run power plants, water treat-

ment and wastewater facilities, oil and gas, mining operations, etc.

“Anywhere there is a large volume

of devices that are mechanized with sensors, or the ability to add sensors

– running and generating things; producing or adding chemicals; sensing

WachsField Technologies helps to optimize performance of machinery such as this inlet blower at a landfill gas scrubbing plant in Texas.

speed, temperature or flow pressure …

we work from the sensors forward,” says Stuart.

WachsField retrieves captured data from those processes and

then customizes programming to automate the operation — to optimize and improve the performance of that operation.

The company also provides safety-related programming. They

can install programs that can send alerts and alarms to a control 14 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Stuart recently partnered with Israel-based company No

Traffic that creates turnkey traffic management platforms to

optimize signalized intersections, provide preemption and provides a platform to communicate with connected and autono-

mous vehicles. No Traffic installs self-contained equipment that can be installed without digging up the intersection or requir-

ing other infrastructure needs.

“The software learns the traffic patterns, peak times, current

SAVE THE DATE

travel times and then it will, in an automated fashion, adjust the timing of traffic lights to maximize flow,” says Stuart.

These systems also offer a “plug and play” option for the ability to communicate with autonomous vehicles without the need for additional sensors in the vehicles or at traffic signals.

“We just launched in Redlands, CA, and we also have an

agreement with Maricopa County to do a pilot site,” he says.

“We have a number of both Arizona and California cities we

are in conversation with to do about eight pilots before we go to market.”

This system also can

help prevent accidents

involving autonomous

vehicles. There was a recent accident involving a Waymo self-driving

car and a person-driven Stuart Wachs

vehicle. The Waymo vehicle was approaching a blind intersection when

the person ran a red light and caused an accident.

No Traffic replicated the scenario In Israel, using their

Guest Speaker Emmy Award-Winning Actor Author • Director • Producer

HENRY WINKLER

equipment. The sensor on the traffic light alerted the self-driving vehicle that the other car was not decelerating. Instead

of proceeding through the intersection on a green light, the connected vehicle stopped to prevent the accident.

“As a former Jewish communal professional – and a guy

Thursday, March 7, 2019 Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas 6333 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale 85250

passionate about Israel – partnering with an Israeli company was high on my list,” says Stuart.

In building this new venture, Stuart reflects that it’s relation-

ships that matter.

“Whether you’re fundraising, running the JCC or a tech

company … there’s a lot of people out there doing what you

Event Co-chairs Sonia & John Breslow Danielle Breslow-Gross & Benjamin Gross

are doing,” he says. “It’s really about how you lead an organization with values and that you’re doing the right thing and that

you’re building relationships. That’s how we’ve formed at a very early stage – partnerships that eventually could be critical and

To inquire about becoming a table captain and/or an event sponsor, please contact 480.481.1752 or events@jewishphoenix.org.

crucial to our success – and that’s a skill set and experience I learned from the nonprofit space.”

For more information on WachsField Technologies, visit

wachsfield.com.

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 15

BIZ Ilana Lowery

INS & OUTS

Sean Lieb

Sandy Rife

Common Sense welcomes Arizona director

Common Sense announced on Dec. 10, 2018 that Ilana Lowery is taking on the role of Arizona director, responsible for driving a strategic effort to build Common Sense's presence, philanthropic base and strategic partnerships throughout the state. "We're thrilled to have someone with Ilana's breadth of experience take on this position," says James Steyer, CEO and founder of Common Sense. "Ilana's journalism, nonprofit and community leadership background, along with her commitment to kids, education and digital media, suit her ideally to lead the important work we do to help parents and families in Arizona and beyond." "I am beyond thrilled to work for an organization like Common Sense Media," Lowery says. "The mission of Common Sense immediately struck a chord with me as someone who has been a part of the changing media landscape and has seen a dramatic – not necessarily positive – shift in how parents and young people use digital technology. The advocacy efforts and education goals of Common Sense Media are more important than ever as we try to navigate through this digital revolution. We have to make better, smarter decisions for the kids growing up in the digital age." commonsense.org

SRS celebrates recent promotion

SRS Real Estate Partners is pleased to announce the promotion of Sean Lieb to first vice president in the Phoenix office. Sean joined SRS in 2017 and has quickly become a strong member of the Phoenix team. Sean is known for diligently pursuing tenants for his client’s projects and for his tenacity to get deals done. “Sean has leveraged his local market knowledge and deep family history in the real estate industry to bring new clients to SRS,” says Ed Beeh, executive vice president and market leader in the Phoenix office. “We are very proud of Sean’s accomplishments and what he has brought to our team.” srsre.com

16 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Ira Mann

Sara Hiller

Changes at Mt. Sinai

Sandy Rife retired as Mt. Sinai Cemetery’s general manager at the end of the 2018. Ira Mann will be stepping into the role effective January 1. Sandy has been with Mt. Sinai since opening day in February 2005. She took over as general manager in 2009. Her first priority was to make certain that everyone felt welcome at Mt. Sinai, and received the assistance he/she needed along with a hearty dose of compassion, concern and care. Ira has been an integral part of the Mt. Sinai staff for several years and is looking forward to continuing to provide the same caring, compassionate service that the Jewish community has come to expect. Ira joined the staff in 2016 and believes he was always meant to be at Mt. Sinai. His engaging smile and warm personality are a winning combination, and families can feel his sincerity and compassion. He goes out of his way to strengthen the cemetery’s good will and reputation. mtsinaicemetery.com

VBM hires new program director

Valley Beit Midrash which brings new, exciting and relevant programming to the Valley Jewish community has hired Sara Hiller to be their new program director. Born and raised in Massachusetts, Sara graduated cum laude from the University of Massachusetts with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She has been a Registered Nurse for 12 years and has spent most of her career in the Emergency Department. In 2016, Sara resigned from her career in order to pursue adult continuing education with a focus in Jewish and religious studies in Jerusalem. With the time spent in Israel, Sara is highly motivated to bring Jewish programming and education to the Greater Phoenix Jewish community. valleybeitmidrash.org

Pridgett promoted to database coordinator at JFSA Kiara Pridgett is the new database coordinator at the Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona. She joined JFSA in

Kiara Pridgett

Wendy Cohen

September 2017 as a part-time administrative assistant for the finance and campaign departments, quickly becoming a full-time staffer. This spring, she joined the internal database conversion team and was promoted to this new position Dec. 1, 2018. She previously worked as a client relationship specialist and legal assistant/receptionist. A native Tucsonan, she holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in business administration from the University of Phoenix and has owned an event planning company since 2014. jfsa.org

Wendy Cohen named executive director at Experience Matters

Wendy Cohen brings more than 20 years of strategic planning, business development, consensus building and

THIS HOUSE FEELS SO

WRIGHT

leadership experience to her new role as executive director at Experience Matters, a Valley-based nonprofit that engages retired professionals with nonprofit organizations to build capacity and support meaningful social-purpose projects. “With Experience Matters now financially stable, our immediate goal is to refocus on our core mission and to grow both the number of nonprofits we serve and our pool of talent to help solve social issues in the community,” says Wendy. “Even during the rebuilding phase, Experience Matters continued as a valuable asset to the nonprofit community by matching organizations with individuals whose critical skills, talent and experience can be leveraged to benefit the nonprofit and the populations being served,” says Laurie Buczek, chair of the Experience Matters board of directors. experiencemattersaz.org

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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 17

Allison enjoyed her time as a volunteer at the Arizona Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Burn Camp, Camp Courage, in Prescott.

Every night when Allison called, Elayne would end the conversation by saying, "Allison you are a very loved child," to

which Allison would respond, "Thank you, momma, I love you too." 18 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

COVER STORY

Justice

Allison for

How a chance encounter in Poland helped a couple find their daughter’s killer

By Mala Blomquist

IN FEBRUARY 2015 Elayne and Harley Feldman and their oldest daughter, Kelly Feldman Weinblatt, experienced an unthinkable tragedy. Their beloved daughter and sister, Allison Feldman, 31, was found brutally murdered in her Scottsdale home. Allison was a giving, loving person with many friends. After graduating from the University of Arizona, she purchased a home in Scottsdale. She had received a promotion at her job in medical sales. She volunteered during the summer at Camp Courage for children who are burn survivors. She spoke Spanish fluently, having studied abroad in Spain. She lit up any room she entered. Sometime during the night of Feb. 17, 2015, a man entered Allison’s home and extinguished this bright light. He then left her home, returned with a chlorine compound and spent an estimated three hours cleaning to remove any trace that he had been there. While the police were unable to locate any fingerprints related to the perpetrator, they collected 450 pieces of evidence, including DNA samples. But the DNA did not match anyone in their criminal database. The Feldmans live in Minnesota, but they traveled monthly to Scottsdale, staying in Allison’s home, to work with the Scottsdale police department to try and find the killer. More than three years later, a combination of extraordinary connections, started as a friendship formed on a Friends of the Israel Defense Forces mission to Poland and Israel, helped find Allison’s murderer.

A UNIQUE FRIENDSHIP

Elayne’s father, Sid Shafner, enlisted in the United States Army at age 18, right after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Due to his high score on an I.Q. test, he was selected for the Army Specialized Training Corps and ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 19

was sent to an engineering program at Regis College, a private Jesuit university in Denver. “In the second year of a three-year program, after the Normandy invasion, the military broke up the program and all these brilliant men were sent to infantry,” says Elayne. Sid was assigned to the 42nd Infantry (Rainbow Division) at Camp Gruber in Oklahoma. Sid started his tour overseas in Marseille, France. After liberating Marseille, his platoon headed toward Munich. “He was in reconnaissance, so he was in the first jeep,” says Elayne. “As they were headed to Munich, they saw two young boys headed down the road who were screaming and yelling. Describing the encounter later, Sid says the boys wore “black and white striped pajamas.” One of the young men was Marcel Levy. Sid had no idea what they were talking about. Sid did not speak German and Marcel did not speak

“As they were headed to Sid Shafner (left) and Marcel Levy (right).

Munich, they saw two young boys headed down the road who were screaming and yelling. Describing the encounter later, Sid says the boys wore “black and white striped pajamas.”

Sid and Marcel Levy reunited in 2016.

The MyZuzah mezuzah installed on a front door.

English, but they were able to communicate in Yiddish. “Come quickly they are killing people,” Marcel said. Sid told the boys the soldiers were on their way to Munich and had no time to bother with them. Marcel finally convinced Sid that the soldiers had to come. Sid radioed the rest of his platoon and the two young men jumped into the jeep to direct them. They became the first unit to arrive at Dachau concentration camp. That was April 29, 1945. “They had no idea it was there, they were in total shock seeing the dead bodies and railroad cars,” says Elayne. Sid was 24 and Marcel was 19. During the liberation of Dachau, Sid and Marcel became close friends. As the 42nd Infantry was readying to leave, Marcel said

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he didn’t want to go with the Red Cross, but his entire family had been killed at Dachau. The group of soldiers decided to make him an honorary part of the platoon. They invited Marcel to come with them, and he became their dishwasher. Marcel was a vital asset to the platoon as they traveled through Germany. Many of the Nazi SS guards who had been stationed at Dachau had changed clothes during the raid to look like civilians or prisoners and were able to escape. One day, the soldiers came across 12 of these individuals. Marcel was able to identify them, and after the soldiers verified who they were by their SS tattoos, they shot them all. “The Red Cross was there and called for a court-martial of all of these Americans,” says Elayne. “General Patton said during the courtmartial proceedings, ‘If I were there, I would have done the same thing, you’re excused.’ ” The 42nd Infantry ended World War II on occupation duty in Austria, where Marcel was promoted to cook. In Austria, Marcel and Sid would feed the refugees who were camped in an old Jewish community center the Nazis had destroyed. Marcel would cook extra food and he and Sid hand out food at the JCC. In 1946 Sid returned to the United States and married Esther Dranoff. Marcel had relatives in Israel, so he moved to Israel, where he still lives. The two kept in touch via letters and emails for more than 60 years and had reunited twice in person. Their third meeting would be a defining moment in many people’s lives.

HONORING A HERO

In 2016 Sid received a letter from the FIDF inviting him to travel to Poland and Israel as their guest with their “From Holocaust to Independence” mission that May. Sid was invited as a liberator and was allowed to bring one guest. Since he used a wheelchair, he needed to travel with his nurse. But Sid wanted Elayne to go too. It had been a little over a year since Allison’s murder, and he thought that getting away for 10 days would be good for her. He told the FIDF that, “I will only go if my daughter can go too.” And they granted his request. “It was the greatest trip of my life,” remembers Elayne of spending 10 days with her dad. In Poland Barbara and Edmund Leff overhead Elayne talking about Allison’s murder. The Leffs were from Paradise Valley and had heard about the case, so they approached Elayne.

“I said to Elayne that it may take a number of years, but it will be solved,” recalls Edmond. “I had worked with a gal whose daughter had been killed on the canal, and that took more than 10 years to solve.” Edmund was referring to the murder of 22-year-old Angela Brosso in 1992. The killer, Bryan Patrick Miller, was caught using his DNA and forensic genealogy in 2015. After Elayne told the Leffs that she and her husband traveled to Scottsdale every month to work with the Scottsdale Police Department, Barbara told them “that we would help them and that we would be there for them.” The Leffs were also there when Sid and Marcel were reunited at an Israeli military base on the second half of the mission. When Sid was originally invited on the trip, he shared his and Marcel’s incredible story. The FIDF arranged the reunion. The last time the two had seen each other was in 1995 at Allison’s bat mitzvah in Israel. “I had Allison’s bat mitzvah in Israel so that my dad and mother could come and see Marcel again,” says Elayne. “We had it in Jerusalem at the Southern Wall. We had just my family and Marcel’s family. It was the most beautiful, most meaningful thing.” The two men spent the rest of the FIDF trip together. It was their last meeting. Sid died on Dec. 26, 2016, at the age of 95.

SEARCH FOR A KILLER

The police were running out of leads in Allison’s case. Through genome mapping they created a profile that included his skin and eye color, and even a list of potential last names. On one of Harley’s monthly trips he told the police, “I hate to keep bugging you guys,” but the police were quick to reply, “We like families to push us. So many families give up after a while. We are happy to work with you as much as you want to work with us.” One day Harley heard about familial DNA. (See sidebar.) He learned that a DNA sample that came back with no leads could then be processed through a DNA familial search. If a blood relative’s DNA is in the state or federal criminal database system, the search can find a match. The only problem – familial search did not exist in Arizona. The Scottsdale police wanted to do it, but they didn’t have the equipment, funding or trained personnel to perform the test.

Familial DNA Federal law enforcement agencies commonly collect DNA samples from those arrested or charged with a crime, as do a growing number of state and local agencies. Traditional DNA searches look for an exact genetic match in one of these state or federal criminal databases. When a conventional DNA search provides no matches, a familial DNA search may be used. Law enforcement uses a familial DNA search to find a sibling, child, parent or other blood relative of the suspect DNA they have collected. A traditional DNA search is only successful if the DNA in question was already in one of the databases searched. Familial DNA searches allow authorities to search for relatives within searchable databases. Current forms of familial DNA searches only work with men, since most techniques to determine exact familial relations involve analysis of similarities on the Y chromosome. Familial DNA searches, as we know them today, do not identify exact relatives of a female DNA sample or female relatives of a male DNA sample. Currently, only 12 states use familial DNA as an investigative tool. Some states allow the reporting of partial match information but do not allow explicit searches for familial DNA. Some places that allow partial match reporting have a procedure on how and when it can be used; others make such decisions on a case-by-case basis. Even though 23andMe and Ancestry.com are two of the largest companies that produce genetic profiles for customers who provide DNA samples, due to their privacy policies, they do not work with law enforcement unless they receive a court order.

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Clockwise, left: Allison at sister Kelly’s wedding, Allison with her grandfather, Sid Shafner, Allison, Alex Stone and Christi Cline at the 2014 Fiesta Bowl rooting for her beloved Arizona Wildcats, and Edmund and Barbara Leff .

Then Harley decided to contact his good friend Barbara Leff. The Leffs and Feldmans remained in constant contact after the FIDF mission and would see each other during the Feldman’s monthly visits to Scottsdale. “The one thing that I have learned from all of this,” says Barbara. “You can never ease their pain, you can provide some comfort, but you can’t ease the pain.” Barbara was a 14-year veteran of public service in Arizona. She was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in 1996, where she served three consecutive terms. In 2002, she was elected to the Arizona State Senate, where she served four consecutive terms until term limits forced her to retire in 2010. Barbara contacted Arizona State Representative Maria Syms and asked for her help. Rep. Syms had previously worked as an assistant attorney general and had recently sponsored and passed the mandatory rape kit testing law that required DNA testing. Maria told Barbara – yes, she would help. “I got a summary of everything and shared it with Maria,” says Harley. “She then went to see (Arizona Attorney General Mark) Brnovich and he told her it was legal, and then the governor approved it.” Once she received approval for familial testing, Maria worked with Scottsdale Assistant Chief of Police Scott Popp and Arizona Department of Safety Director Col. Frank Milstead to get the funding and resources in place. By the end of November 2017, the equipment had been purchased, personnel had been trained and Arizona was ready to start familial DNA testing. The whole process, from getting permission to beginning testing, had taken six months. 22 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

The police got the break they were waiting for in April 2018. “They had found a familial match because the perpetrator’s brother was in jail for molestation,” says Harley. The familial DNA search came up with one match, Mark Mitcham, who was serving a 40-year sentence for child molestation. Mark had three brothers, two of whom did not have criminal backgrounds. But his younger brother, Ian, had been arrested before, including a DUI in 2015. The police had drawn blood at that time to check his blood alcohol content, and although the case was dismissed, that sample was still in evidence. When they compared the DNA to that found at Allison’s home, they matched perfectly. “I was told he’d be arrested on Tuesday from SPD,” remembers Harley. “The familial match was made on Thursday, and the arrest happened on Tuesday.” The police waited outside of the Phoenix delicatessen where Ian worked and arrested him on April 10, 2018. “On Wednesday morning I was in Orlando and got a call from Maricopa County courts that he was being transferred from Scottsdale to Maricopa County and I had a right to be there,” says Harley. “I said, ‘I can’t,’ and they told me I could fill out a victim impact statement. I filled it out and it went to the judge. The judge read my victim impact statement to him and said, ‘$5 million cash bail.’ He’s been in jail ever since.” Scottsdale Police Detective John Heinzelman warned the Feldmans that his arrest would not change anything for them. “It brought us peace for about two days,” says Harley. “When he was arrested, that was a little relief, and then you realized that

Allison with Elayne in Sedona. Allison with parents Elayne and Harley Feldman.

Allison’s not coming back.” Adds Elayne, “The police would tell us all the time it was senseless, she should never have been a victim. They had no idea how he knew her and don’t know why she was targeted. We might never know.” Harley talks to victim support groups and in August 2018 he delivered a message in favor of more states integrating familial DNA testing and technology at the Conference of the Western States Attorneys General to the 43 attorneys general in attendance. “My message to the attorneys general is to use it in your states because there are families you can help to solve crimes,” he says. “What keeps me going was to have two tasks,” says Harley. “One, to find the killer, and the other is to keep her legacy alive with the scholarship.” The Allison Feldman Memorial Scholarship was created to provide opportunities for students to participate in the University of Arizona Study Abroad programs, paying tribute to the most transformative experience of Allison’s life, as a student in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, in 2004. “She was a quiet and shy girl when she was little, but after her study abroad in Spain, she grew up a lot,” says Harley. “She loved working with people.”

Elayne reflects on the order life should follow. “The parents should go first,” she says. “When my dad died I felt terrible because we were very close, but he was 95. It’s not supposed to be the child, especially from such a violent murder as this. That’s the part that’s so difficult to live with. I worry all the time how much did she suffer – and nobody could tell me.” She admits she gets “triggered” all the time. Elayne can’t walk by a bridal shop without bursting into tears, because Allison will never be a bride, or a mother, or advance in her career – so many milestones that she will never achieve. Every night when Allison called, Elayne would end the conversation by saying, "Allison you are a very loved child," to which Allison would respond, "Thank you, momma, I love you too." Allison is still a loved child, and will never be forgotten. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 23

TIKKUN OLAM REQUIRES EDUCATION

EYE ON EDUCATION 25 STEM at play 26 CertiStar 30 Menachem Mendal Academy 31 Backpack safety 32 LINK program by StandWithUs 34 Pardes celebrates 25 years 34 JTO broadens scholarship policy 36 Gateway Academy/Virtual reality lab 37 Daniel Pollack playground 37 Education tutoring and consultaiton services

As long as the Jews have been a people, education has been of paramount importance.

he imperative to educate children is conveyed in Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “And these words, which I command you this day, shall be upon your heart. And you shall teach them to your sons and speak of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk on the way, and when you lie down and when you rise up.” The concept appears many times in Proverbs, including “Train a child in the way he (should) go; and, even when old, he will not swerve from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) Yet one is never too old to learn. The great Rabbi Akiva was a semi-literate shepherd who became a learned scholar; he is believed to have begun his Torah studies at the age of 40. Our Eye on Education section looks at the various options for learning at all ages. Play, classrooms and informal settings all offer opportunities to learn and grow. From choosing a preschool to adult education, this section has stories about all of life’s learning stages. Education, both Jewish and secular, is vital to building a just society of people who can contribute to repairing our world (tikkun olam).

PHOTO BY LAURA-KAPFER AT UNSPLASH

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STEM at Play Courtesy Family Features

hen children play, they often learn. Not only can playtime improve behavior and concentration, it also helps children explore with their imaginations. Both free play and adult-guided play allow kids to learn right from wrong, how to share and how to recognize others’ feelings. Aside from neurological benefits, the power of play can also improve both long-term and short-term health. There’s evidence (bit.ly/2SkWik7) that active children grow into active adults, thus decreasing their risk of heart disease and other scourges of sedentary lifestyles. Apart from these physical and emotional benefits, what some parents may not realize is that when playing, kids apply STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) principles. Whether it’s playing with blocks, building a fort or kicking a soccer ball with their friends, kids at play are “playing” with STEM. While parents may feel they need to “introduce” their children to science, they’ve likely already started to understand it through everyday life and may even have a strong affinity for it. In fact, a report released by The Center for Childhood Creativity (bit.ly/2QtmED3) found kids are capable of developing complex STEM skills before they are even verbal. Knowing these skills are constantly developing, playtime can be a fun way for parents to point out the science that makes things work. STACKING UP MATH AND SCIENCE SKILLS.

Legos and other building blocks are a classic for a reason: they give kids the opportunity to build a dream home, a castle, a car – the list goes on. By asking your child to build a house, person or monster, you are simultaneously introducing him or her to concepts such as balance, pivots and other mathematical and scientific theories. Another fun lesson you can bring to the set is using building blocks to practice addition, subtraction

There are many hands-on activities for children of all ages at the annual STEM Festival held at Tucson Hebrew Academy. This year’s festival will be Sunday, April 7. and multiplication skills. For example, a 4-by-2 brick has eight studs on the top, while an 8-by-6 brick has 48 studs. Help your kids make the connection by using the blocks to teach them how to build a better sense of numbers. SPRING INTO ACTION.

Another classic toy that you may not have realized involves science is a Slinky. Generations of children have watched the bendable springs “walk” down the stairs in amazement. Challenge your child to explore and see at which angle the spring toy can “walk” the fastest. Make it even more fun by creating an obstacle course with books and other objects that may affect the trajectory to incorporate principles of physics and engineering. If your child is older, you can even use the toy to teach the basics of forces and waves by stretching it out then releasing it. Having your children play with science doesn’t have to involve test tubes and calculators; instead, you can harness the natural learning habits of your child. If you are looking for other ways to make learning fun, a program such as ExploraVision can help. This K-12 STEM contest allows kids of all ages to create ideas for new technological innovations in response to realworld issues. Participants work on their projects to supplement their science education while also developing problem-solving, analytical and collaboration skills. The deadline for this contest is Feb. 8, 2019. To learn more about the competition and how to enter, and for teachers to find free tips for engaging students, visit exploravision.org. The site offers timelines to develop a project in as little as three weeks. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 25

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CertiStar helps those with food allergies By Mala Blomquist

e have all heard that “necessity is the mother of invention” and in the case of Shandee Chernow, creating her company CertiStar, was indeed a necessity. Shandee has food allergies and if she consumes certain foods, she can have a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction. According to the Food Allergy Research & Education website, “up to 15 million Americans have food allergies, including 5.9 million children under age 18. That’s 1 in 13 children, or roughly two in every classroom. Every three minutes, a food allergy sends someone to the emergency room.” “I was selling software and going out to lunch and dinner with customers all the time,” says Shandee. “It was one of the only times that food allergy people aren’t the ones to pick the restaurant. I got tired of trying not to die.” Explaining the severity of her food allergies became an uncomfortable conversation to have with a new client. Then one day she had her “aha” moment. “It struck me that the set of information that includes recipes, cooking information about those recipes, and the foods that are in them – and my allergies – it’s really just a big data science problem,” says Shandee. “I took my background in computer science and stuck it on top of the restaurant industry food allergy problem – and voila – now we have the software,” she jokes. CertiStar’s MenuStar software is available for both schools

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CertiStar’s user-friendly MenuStar software allows the user to see what foods are safe to eat for their specific food allergy. and restaurants as a subscription-based service. Any restaurant or school can be a subscriber of CertiStar and the company makes it easy by handling everything from the data entry to hosting. In New York, Harlem Children’s Zone Promise Academy Charter Schools use the MenuStar for Schools software. “We have the same set of kids with the same set of allergies all the time, and the food changes. We built the software to accommodate that,” says Shandee. Parents fill out a form with their child’s allergens, and that information will be entered in a database that also contains the recipes and ingredients of the food being served. When a child approaches the lunch counter and enters their name, the program will determine if the child can eat what is on the menu or if they will need an alternate meal. On the cafeteria’s side, the chefs will know ahead of time

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER Know your genetic risks & options

The JGDC provides free or highly subsidized screening for Jewish young adults between the ages of 18-45. Our mission is to provide awareness, knowledge, and screening to empower the Jewish community to make informed decisions regarding genetic diseases. The JGDC hosts screening events throughout the year . Please contact us to get screened.

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Shandee Chernow

how many children have allergies so that they can prepare enough alternate meals. Everyone, even the teachers, at Harlem Children’s receive free lunch so the kitchen staff knows that each student will be eating a prepared meal from the cafeteria. Since CertiStar just launched in March 2018, and MenuStar for Schools launched at the beginning of August 2018, Shandee missed the time frame for many schools to implement the software but is working on signing up schools for the 2019-2020 school year. Currently Chompie’s Restaurant, Deli and Bakery is the first restaurant in the Valley to use the MenuStar for Restaurants software. “They have two iPads at every location and it’s on every manager’s phone,” says Shandee. When a person with allergies dines at Chompie’s, they can request the iPad. They can touch the CertiStar icon and be prompted to enter their specific food allergies. Once they hit “search” the entire menu will appear in green, yellow or red. Any menu option under green is

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE HEYMANN PHOTOGRAPHY

allergen-friendly, yellow is OK to consume as long as the modifications listed are made and everything in red is unsafe. “It just takes so much stress off the restaurant,” says Shandee. “Just think of the process that they have to go through to feed someone with a complicated diet.” CertiStar’s database of ingredients is enormous. “We work with the USDA database – which started at more than 260,000 food items,” she says. “Any time we encounter one that’s not in that database, we add it to our own proprietary database.” Their goal is to make sure that the data available is as accurate as possible. CertiStar is currently in four states and is expanding rapidly. Shandee is also hoping to develop a consumer app in the future. For more information, visit certistar.com.

ENROLLING NOW! Fall 2018: Boys Grades 1 - 6

Fall 2019: Boys and Girls Grades 1 - 8 Fall 2020: Pre-School Opens

• Child-Centered Academia • Holistic Wellness • Cutting-Edge Technology • Good Old-Fashioned Fun!

Revolutionizing Jewish education and creating Jewish leaders for the next generation

480-909-6942

MenachemMendelAcademy.com 28 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

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February 17–18, 2019

Judaism and Disability:

new genetics, disability studies, and practical interventions Judaism, Science & Medicine Group Conference Scottsdale Plaza Resort | Scottsdale, Arizona

free and open to all | registration required

jewishstudies.asu.edu/science Together we will explore: • the ways genetics and genomics help to understand and treat genetic diseases. • the diverse conceptions of physical and mental disabilities in the sources of Judaism in light of the new discipline of Disability Studies. • the social, cultural and psychological dimensions of disability. • the work of Jewish organizations to empower and include people with disabilities. sponsors • Center for Jewish Studies at Arizona State University a research unit of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences • Harold and Jean Grossman Chair in Jewish Studies Arizona State University • Irving and Miriam Lowe Professsor of Modern Judaism Arizona State University

Our unique academic program and research center hybrid serves as an intellectual resource for all aspects of the Jewish experience. Through undergraduate and graduate courses, research conferences, public lectures and more, we’re committed to fostering critical inquiry and scholarly entrepreneurship through the dissemination of accurate information about Jewish culture and enhance the quality of Jewish life in the Phoenix metropolitan area and around the world.

with support from • Dr. Michael Anbar Memorial Lecture in Judaism, Science and Medicine Endowment Arizona State University

Come learn with us today and help create a better tomorrow.

questions? Lisa Kaplan | 480.965.8094

jewishstudies.asu.edu ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 29

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Menachem Mendel Academy: Thinking outside the box for Jewish education By Mala Blomquist

haya Mushka Ben-Shabat and her husband, Mordechai, are the founders of the Menachem Mendel Academy in Scottsdale – which may seem odd considering the two have no background in education. “The way that we ended up where we are … we’ve traveled internationally over the last several years,” says Chaya. “We have had our son in schools on three different continents, and everywhere that we travel we have not been able to find a good solution for Jewish education.” Mordechai is a founding partner of Seacret, a global skincare and nutrition company that operates in more than 40 countries around the world. Chaya has been an entrepreneurial coach to professional women for the last 15 years.

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Menachem Mendel Academy promotes an “out-of-the-box” approach to education, encouraging time for stories, exploration and fun. “In business, if something is missing and you want it, you can wait forever and hope it comes out, or you can create it yourself,” says Chaya. “It was never our plan to open a school, but we realized that if we waited any longer, our son would have gone through his entire upbringing in what we believed was a subpar educational system.” MMA opened for the 2018-2019 school year, teaching boys in grades 1 through 6, with a plan to add a new grade each coming year. For the 2019-2020 school year, they also plan on

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adding a girls’ school at a separate location, close to the boys’ school. A preschool and kindergarten program is scheduled to open in 2020. “What we want is a community that has a fusion of strong academics for today’s environment, that doesn’t compromise on core values, that has full integration of both – but at the same time allows the kid to be a kid,” says Chaya. Through coaching adults, she heard an ongoing conversation that children today are lacking basic life skills. “Why aren’t we teaching life skills – time management, emotional management, communications skills, people skills, money management, financial planning, long-term planning?” she asks. “Why aren’t we teaching these things to our children? Like how to change a tire or how to sew on a button.” Learning at MMA is centered around three educational pillars: Jewish life, academic excellence and everyday life skills; all based on one overriding philosophy: making sure that they know themselves for their strengths and not for their challenges. “We don’t have all the answers, and we are not trained experts but what we do know how to do is to surround ourselves with the experts, to go get the right people and bring the right people to create what we want,” she adds. Chaya grew up in a household where both of her parents have multiple degrees, so she grew up understanding the importance of a good, strong education. She understands the importance of education from a Jewish perspective, although she was not raised in the faith. “I only found out I was Jewish seven years ago,” she says. Through a combination of blood tests, genealogy records and a lot of research, she started putting the pieces of her heritage together. She discovered that there was an adoption in her family 10 generations back, and that’s when everything fell into place. “It has been a massive life change for me,” says Chaya. “When I found out, I started looking into my roots and what it means to be Jewish. I’m an all-or-nothing kind of gal, so I really embraced it.” Mordechai was born and raised in Israel and moved to the United States after finishing his service as a paratrooper in the IDF. “When we first met, he was not observant at all,” remembers Chaya. “So as I found my way and what it all means, he started on a parallel path as well.” Chaya and Mordechai keep kosher and are shomer Shabbat. The kitchen at MMA is also kosher, and they use only organic ingredients and serve minimally packaged foods. The cost incurred by MMA for each student is about $27,000 a year. “That is the cost of the level of quality education we are providing and creating,” says Chaya. Their ultimate goal is to provide free education to all of their students, but for right now there is tuition that includes most activities and all meals and snacks. “For me, my personal mission is to create a system where Jewish education once again becomes the benchmark to the rest of the world instead of having to apologize for where we’re at,” says Chaya. “If we can help the life of one child it’s an important enough mission.” For more information on MMA, visit menachemmendelacademy.com.

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Backpack safety

f you’ve ever gone backpack shopping with a school-aged child, you know picking the right one is a big decision. The array of shapes, styles and patterns is matched by the range of prices. The modern backpack explicitly made for books has only been around since the mid-1970s, but it’s hard to imagine the time when books were carried using just leather straps. Today, with the shift to laptops and iPads, students may not even need to carry textbooks, but backpacks are still considered a necessity. Many schools are doing away with lockers for safety reasons, so a child may have to carry everything they need for school, including after-school activities and sports equipment, with them the entire day. The average sixth grader carries a backpack weighing 18.4 pounds, although some carry as much as 30 pounds. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child’s backpack weigh no more than 10-20% of a child’s weight. A child weighing 100 pounds should have a filled pack that weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. Children should be taught how to safely put on and take off their backpacks and the proper way to wear them to avoid back and shoulder injuries. The backpack should always be worn with both shoulder straps to distribute the weight. Also, the straps should be tightened so the pack fits snugly positioned evenly in the middle of the back over the strongest muscles. When packing the backpack use all of the compartments to distribute the weight more evenly. Make sure that the heaviest items are centered so there is not more weight on one side or the other, causing loss of balance or shoulder strain. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, when choosing a backpack, keep the following attributes in mind: IDE, PADDED SHOULDER STRAPS – Narrow straps can dig W into shoulders, cause pain and restrict circulation. TWO SHOULDER STRAPS – Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot distribute weight evenly. PADDED BACK – A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the pack and increases comfort. WAIST STRAP – A waist strap can distribute the weight of a heavy load more evenly. LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACK – The backpack itself should not add much weight to the load. ROLLING BACKPACK – This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs.

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LINK – A middle school Israel educational program is coming to Arizona S tandWithUs has a new initiative for middle school. “LINK: Discovering Your Israel Connection” is a 6-lesson unit that allows students to explore the historic Jewish roots to Israel while discovering their own personal, modern connection. After a successful pilot program, LINK is now in 122 schools nationwide. Director Mina Rush of Community Engagement at StandWithUs, Mina Rush, is making Arizona a priority for 2019. Through a sophisticated, interactive, online application, LINK was developed by teachers, curriculum writers and internet experts who understand the need for a dynamic, educational experience of this kind. The outcome is a platform designed to enable students to determine for themselves, through experiential and project-based learning, their own, unique Israel connection. Students discover an Israel not usually found in traditional Jewish curricula; an Israel whose actions are informed by Jewish values and reflect the best of what matters to today’s youth. They learn about an Israel that is diverse, where humanitarian aid is a priority, and where there are opportunities for refugees and economic migrants. They are inspired by an Israel whose innovations and technologies are improving and saving lives throughout the world.

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“The motivation behind this endeavor was to create a program that could reverse Jewish students’ diminishing relationship to Israel as evidenced by recent polls,” says Mina. “My experience showed that traditional methods of teaching did not always achieve the desired results. I realized that students are best able to connect when the material represents their core values. This realization led to the direction that LINK has taken.” To learn more about the curriculum and to schedule a demonstration, visit IsraelLink.org or contact minar@IsraelLink.org.

NorthBridge College Success Program A comprehensive program designed to support students with learning differences transitioning to or who are already enrolled in college and vocational programs. We work with students and parents to create a unique post-secondary success plan specific to each student. NorthBridge’s mission is to empower students to achieve their post-secondary educational goals.

Admissions and Application Support at the college level • Choose the right school and major • Evaluate learning style and how it relates to success • Connect with disability services and apply for accommodations Academic Advisement • Preferred instructors • Balanced course load • Degree evaluation and tracking NorthBridge Orientation • Navigating online classes • Build study skills NorthBridge Academic Support • 1:1 academic support each week • Development of college success skills • Executive functioning support and training Above and Beyond • Social events • Strategic workshops for students • Informational workshops for parents and community members

NorthBridgeaz.org

480.991.3686

Success@NorthBridgeaz.org 7000 E. Shea Blvd. • Ste. J-262 ARIZONAAZ JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 Scottsdale, 85254

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that will continue to speak to our values, programming, place within this community and trust of our constituents. That means ensuring that the teaching practices and curriculum continue to be at the highest possible level so that each student’s experience, both secular and Jewish, results in passion and engagement that will inspire them to be their best selves.” The school’s culminating celebratory event will highlight Pardes’ STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) programs. The Silver STEAM Gala will take place on February 9 at 7:15 pm at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix and will include cocktails, live and silent auctions and dinner. “We decided to highlight STEAM because it encompasses so much of what we do at Pardes and where we are headed,” says event chairs Andrea and Dan Kravets. The entire community is invited to attend this event. To purchase tickets, visit pardesschool.org/silver-steam-gala.

Jewish Tuition Organization Broadens It’s full STEAM ahead as Pardes Scholarship celebrates Policy 25 years Students sign a banner during Pardes Jewish Day School’s 25th Anniversary All-School Celebration.

By Leslie Goldman

wenty-five years is a milestone for any institution and Pardes Jewish Day School is thriving as it enters its next quarter century. “We are constantly moving the school to be future ready,” says Head of School, Peter Gordon. “And that means preparing our students for a future not yet imagined.” The power of being in a Jewish day school for these formative years is that students learn to find meaning, inspiration and purpose in their Jewish heritage as they navigate life’s journey. In turn, with the combination of a strong secular education, Pardes develops its students into intellectually confident, ethically responsible, passionately engaged citizens and leaders who will become the creators of the future. “We’re not satisfied with the status quo,” says Peter. “We are looking to the next 25 years of sustainability and excellence

34 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

he Jewish Tuition Organization announced that its board has voted to broaden the organization’s scholarship policy to accept recommended funds, effective Nov. 16, 2018. JTO supporters can now request that the money they give to the JTO go to the General Fund, one of its six affiliated schools’ fund, or a specific student attending one of the six schools. Prior to the board’s actions, the JTO did not accept recommended funds. The change in policy is answering the demand of many supporters in the community. “The JTO is a student tuition organization and as most student tuition organizations accept recommended funds the JTO did not want to lose those supporters,” explains Executive Director Linda Zell. “It’s understandable that people would want their dollars going to support a school or student about whom they care.” The General Fund will provide need-based only scholarships and the recommended funds will have additional criteria that needs to be met. Arizona law states that an STO cannot award, restrict or reserve scholarships solely based on donor recommendation. Swapping is prohibited, a taxpayer may not

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claim the tax credit if they agree to swap donations with another taxpayer. Therefore, recommendations are not guaranteed and are at the complete and sole discretion of the STO per Arizona law. “Of course, we will do our best to honor recommendations, or what’s the point of accepting them.” says Linda. The JTO prides itself on being a community organization. While STOs are allowed by law to retain 10 percent of all funds raised for overhead, the JTO keeps its budget very tight so that it can give more of the funds raised to the students. “We usually award about 93% of what we raise in scholarships,” notes Linda. “We feel the JTO is here for the community and for the children in our schools, so the more we can help them the better it is for everyone – our students, our schools and our supporters.” To support the JTO, or for more information, call 480-634-4926 or visit jtophoenix.org.

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Boys carrying the Torah at Pardes Jewish Day School. PHOTO BY JOSH MASON-BARKIN

Why Parents Choose Pardes Exceptional K-8 academics with diﬀerentiated instruction in an integrated 21st century landscape A nurturing community centered on Jewish heritage Enriching activities, leadership opportunities, and character education

A World-Class Education Grounded in Jewish Values REQUEST MORE INFO OR SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR Contact the Admissions Oﬀice at (480) 991-9141 or admissions@pardesschool.org 12753 N Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

PARDESSCHOOL.ORG

A physically and emotionally safe learning environment Aﬀordable tuition with multiple ﬁnancial aid options Strong foundations for high school, college, and beyond

“Zach has developed strong public speaking, research, writing, math, and science skills, as well as attained a high level of speaking, reading, and writing the Hebrew language.” — Parent of a 7th grade student

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

Pardes admits qualiﬁed students of any race, national and ethnic origin, or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Pardes does not discriminate on the basis of race, national and ethnic origin, or sexual orientation in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 35

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Gateway Academy to celebrate school choice with opening of Virtual Reality Lab

Brandon Esser wears a virtual reality headset and "travels" to Times Square in New York City.

ow can virtual reality serve education? Gateway Academy will address this question and celebrate school choice at the grand opening of its Virtual Reality Lab at 9 am on Jan. 23. Hundreds of legislators, educators, parents, and students will attend the event, which will feature a keynote address by Arizona Director of Implementation for the American Federation for Children, Sarah Raybon. During the grand opening, Gateway Academy students will demonstrate how virtual

36 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

reality can be used to make studying more exciting and effective. This event is planned to coincide with the historymaking celebration of National School Choice Week 2019, which will feature more than 40,000 school choice events across all 50 states. “The strongest proof that virtual reality can aid the education system is, in a way, the human brain,” says O. Robin Sweet, executive director and CEO at Gateway Academy. “The brain tends to remember 10%

of what it reads, 20% of what it hears, and 90% of what it does or simulates. Let’s see what virtual reality can bring to the table for education in 2018 and beyond.” Gateway Academy is a private school serving students in grades K-12 with a focus on Twice-Exceptional (2E) Students. Gateway Academy is the only school in Arizona State specializing in a population of students who are both academically bright and diagnosed with high-functioning autism (Asperger’s syndrome). gatewayacademy.us

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Unveiling the Daniel Pollack Playground

he children that attend the Chandler Jewish Preschool will kick off the new year with a new playground. The ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Daniel Pollack Playground, with Michael Pollack, will be held on Jan. 21 from 10:30 am to noon. The playground was designed by Debra Morgan of Natural Playscapes, together with input and vision from the teachers and parents of Chandler Jewish Preschool students. From inception to conclusion it took about three months to construct. The playground includes a music wall, art wall, climbing structures, mud kitchen, building blocks, water well, wood stumps, organic garden, picnic tables, and a beautifully tiled bike path. “It is very exciting as there are no other Jewish preschools with an outdoor classroom like ours in the Valley,” says Masha Rimler one of the directors at Chandler Jewish Preschool. “It is unique because I think we are the only Jewish school with a natural, Reggio-inspired playground. Also, the entire area that the children can explore outside is one half of an acre.” chandlerjewishpreschool.com

Education tutoring and consultation services

ome children struggle with academics and learning. At Gesher Disability Resources (formerly Council For Jews With Special Needs) their professional staff provides academic supports and recommendations for strategies to help your child succeed in school. Who could benefit from educational tutoring and consultation? A child who has an IEP, ISP or 504 in school; a child who has academic challenges and needs extra support (executive functioning); or a child who needs to work on their homework assignments. The educational tutor and consultant is a professional staff member of Gesher Disability Resources who holds a master’s level degree and a current state of Arizona special education teaching certificate. She has experience teaching, developing, and setting goals for education plans in Jewish preschools, day schools, religious schools and camps.

After a consultation meeting with parents to determine the child’s area of need, a plan is developed to include learning strategies and problem solving. Tutoring sessions are one-on-one with the student and support materials, recommendations of skill review and regular progress reports to the parents are included. The fee for this service is $30 per hour, per student. For more information, contact 480-629-5343 or jill@gesherdr.org. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 37

FRONT & CENTER

GET YOUR TICKETS The Tucson International Jewish Film Festival Jan. 6-20

The Tucson International Jewish Film Festival kicks off its 28th year with 20 film screenings at three venues. Most of the films will be shown at the Tucson Jewish Community Center, with SaddleBrooke and the Loft Cinema being additional venues. As one of the longest-running Jewish film festivals in the country, the TIJFF brings outstanding Jewish films from around the globe that promote Jewish culture and diversity. The more than 3,000 attendees will view the best in independent Jewish cinema. Following is the schedule of screenings:

VENUES SADDLEBROOKE DESERTVIEW PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 39900 S Clubhouse Dr Tucson THE LOFT CINEMA 3233 E Speedway Blvd Tucson TUCSON JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER 3800 E. River Road Tucson

TICKETS For more information, call 520-299-3000 or visit tucsonjcc.org Discount (student, senior, military): $9 General Admission: $10 6-pack: $50 Season Pass: $125

Sunday, Jan. 6, 3 pm (SaddleBrooke)

Disobedience: The Sousa Mendes Story Aristides de Sousa Mendes, the Portuguese Consul General in Bordeaux, during World War II defies orders and issues more than 30,000 visas to people fleeing the Holocaust. Thursday, Jan. 10, 7 pm (The Loft)

Budapest Noir A murder mystery set in Budapest, 1936. A young beautiful girl, is found dead and no one wants to investigate – except Gordon, a crime reporter who has a gut feeling that things are not what they seem. An engaging, action based thriller not to be missed!

The rest of the scheduled films are shown at The J Friday, Jan. 11, 1 pm

Humor Me A crowd pleasing father/son comedy starring Elliot Gould and Bebe Neuwirth (Cheers). Nate, a struggling playwright, is forced to move in with his joke-telling dad in a New Jersey retirement community. Saturday, Jan. 12, 7:30 pm

A Quiet Heart An intense Le Carre-style thriller set on the fault line between secularism and religious orthodoxy in modern Israel. Ania Bukstein (Game of Thrones) plays Naomi, a secular young woman seeks refuge from the pressures of her life as a concert pianist. Refuge is not what she finds.

Sunday, Jan. 13, 1 pm (ice cream social to follow)

Shoelaces A special needs man, abandoned as a boy by his father, now learns his father needs a kidney transplant. The son must fight for the right to be a donor.

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Sunday, Jan. 13, 4 pm

Heading Home: Tale of Team Israel After years of defeat, Team Israel is finally ranked among the world’s best in 2017, eligible to compete in the fiercely competitive World Baseball Classic. Wear your favorite sports jersey to this showing. Monday, Jan. 14, 5 pm

Moon in the 12th House A modern Israeli drama focuses on estranged sisters who are reunited and must face the circumstances that tore them apart. They also need to come to terms with the personal demons that might separate them again.

Monday, Jan. 14, 7:30 pm

Simon and Theodore An immature man dealing with mental health issues is about to become a father. He meets an angry, rebellious teenager and they go on a journey of self-discovery through the cold streets of Paris. Tuesday, Jan. 15, 5 pm

In Her Footsteps For 10 years, the mother of a Bedouin family has dealt with breast cancer; her last wish is be buried in Omer, a wealthy Jewish village, where the family has successfully resided for years. The town has never dealt with the burial of one of its Muslim residents in a Jewish cemetery. Thursday, Jan. 17, 7:30 pm

Bye Bye Germany David Berman and his friends, all Holocaust survivors, have only one purpose: to go to America as soon as possible. For this, they need money. Close to reaching his goal, David is not only deprived of his savings but also overtaken by his shady past.

Wednesday, Jan. 16, 5 pm

93 Queen Set in Borough Park, Brooklyn, this documentary follows a group of tenacious Hasidic women who are smashing the patriarchy in their community by creating the first allfemale, volunteer ambulance corps. Witness a unique portrayal of empowered women who are taking matters into their own hands. Wednesday, Jan. 16, 7:30 pm

The Cakemaker Thomas, a young German baker, travels to Jerusalem in search of the wife and son of his dead male lover. Using a false name, he gets a job in the cafe of the newly widowed, Anat. His German cakes and cookies bring life back to the cafe and to Anat. Thursday, Jan. 17, 5 pm

The Light of Hope In this emotional drama set in 1942, the French authorities order a maternity home, dedicated to helping mothers and their babies escape the dangers of giving birth in internment camps, to close. Its director and collaborators do everything they can to prevent this from happening. Thursday, Jan. 17, 7:30 pm

Commandments | Episodes 1-4 (Kipat Barzel) A wildly humorous Israeli TV series, about the young Orthodox men who feel personally compelled to join the Israeli Defense Force, despite the communal taboos associated with it. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 39

Friday, Jan. 18, 1 pm

F I L M

F E S T I V A L Stitchers

Stitchers: Tapestry of Spirit | Short Film The journey of one woman’s ambitious project to write a complete Torah, in cross stitch. Over 1,500 stitchers in 27 countries, are each crafting a portion, in the hope the final work will become an inspiring, traveling museum exhibit. The Caborca Jew: A Mexican Story Inspired by the narrator’s grandfather, this documentary tells the story of a Polish immigrant trying to get to the US, who finds himself in Caborca, a small town in Sonora, Mexico. As the only Jew and unable to speak the language, he maintains his faith, his Jewish identity, and becomes a treasured resident. Don’t miss the Tucson connection to this film. Saturday, Jan. 19, 7:30 pm

GREAT FILMS With a little Jewish flavor

Ask for Jane Prior to the passage of Roe vs. Wade, a courageous group of young Chicago college women developed an underground network to provide safe, but still illegal, abortions. Cait Cortelyou who portrays Rose and is the coproducer, will lead a discussion following the film. Sunday, Jan. 20, 3 pm

Spring Chicken | Short Film Three-time champion of her Israeli retirement home’s annual Purim costume contest, 95-year-old, Anny Junek, hatches a plan for a fourth win.

FEB. 10–24, 2019

Wendy’s Shabbat | Short Film Friends in a retirement community usher in Shabbat with candles, challah, and grape juice at a local fast-food restaurant. The friends are happy to celebrate together and the Wendy’s staff is proud to be part of such a lovely ritual.

ORDER TICKETS WWW.GPJFF.ORG | 602.753.9366

Egg Cream | Short Film This is a sweet look at the memory, history, and enduring meaning of a beloved, chocolate soda drink, born in Jewish immigrant neighborhoods at the turn of 20th Century. Neither egg nor cream, it was a product of necessity and hardship, but a source of bubbling joy. Enjoy an Egg Cream and a talk from the author of Seltzertopia, Barry Joseph.

HARKINS SHEA 14 (SCOTTSDALE) HARKINS TEMPE MARKETPLACE 16 (TEMPE) HARKINS PARK WEST 14 (PEORIA) 40 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Save the date for the West Valley Jewish Film Festival The West Valley Jewish Film Festival returns to Beth Emeth Congregation at 13702 W. Meeker Blvd. in Sun City West From Jan. 26 to 28. The three films shown at this year’s festival are “Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel,” “Three Identical Strangers” and “The Samuel Project.” Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel Israel’s national baseball team competes in the World Baseball Classic for the first time. Teammates included many JewishAmerican major leaguers – most with a tenuous relationship to Judaism – having never been to Israel. The film now takes them on their first journey to Israel (from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem) where they discover, “What it means to be Jewish.” Visiting Israel and representing it on a world stage in Seoul, Korea defies the world’s expectation. With Mensch on a Bench as their mascot and a pride in representing Israel, they finished in sixth place.

For ticket information, call 623-584-7210 or visit bethemethaz.org.

Three Identical Strangers On July 12, 1961 triplets were born in New York to a single mother and then separated at birth and adopted by three different families of different economic levels. Then in 1980, these three complete strangers accidentally meet and discover that they are identical triplets. This movie follows their reunion and their incredible story. Once an unimaginable secret is revealed, the emotional impact is stunning. This is one of the most fascinating stories ever told where the truth is stranger than fiction. The Samuel Project Hal Linden as grandfather Samuel becomes the subject of his grandson Eli’s animated art project in the sharing of history between generations. As Samuel, a San Diego dry cleaner and Eli, an outcast high school teen, work together on Eli’s art project, they get to know each other for the first time. Eventually, Eli learns how his grandfather was saved as a boy in Nazi Germany. The result is a story Samuel hasn’t told in 75 years, and one that allows three generations of Eli’s family to finally connect.

® WINNER OF 8 TONY AWARDS INCLUDING

BEST MUSICAL!

JANUARY 23 - MARCH 10 AT THE PHOENIX THEATRE COMPANY Visit PhoenixTheatre.com or call 602.254.2151 today! AZJewishLife .indd 1

11/25/18 1:35 AM

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 41

Surrealistic Artist ORA TAMIR travels from Israel to participate in Arizona Fine Art EXPO

By Susan Kern-Fleischer

Ora Tamir’s paintings, clockwise from left, “Release,” “Forever” and “Happy Hour.”

FRONT & CENTER

Ora Tamir working in her studio.

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he was born on a kibbutz: a settlement surrounded by the stark beauty of the Israeli desert. And while she currently lives in Kfar Saba, a 20-minute ride from Tel Aviv, she is drawn to Arizona’s landscape and architecture, and feels fortunate to have friends living here. Acclaimed artist Ora Tamir will debut her new surrealistic work at the Arizona Fine Art EXPO, which runs daily from 10 am to 6 pm from Jan. 11 to March 24. Known as one of Arizona’s best venues for collecting fine art, the event features 124 patronfriendly artist studios within a 44,000 square-foot space under the “festive white tents” at 26540 N. Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale, on the southwest corner of Scottsdale and Jomax Roads, next to MacDonald’s Ranch. When Ora was young, she would spend hours gazing at masterpieces in Tel Aviv’s Museum of Art. “It became my art class – my favorite playground,” Ora says, adding that she loved color and the power of the line.

After completing a two-year service in the Israel Defense Forces, she traveled to New York. It was there that she discovered the work of Salvador Dali for the first time at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. “I was awestruck. That night I had a vivid dream – in it, a child was tied to a balloon, grasping her parents’ hands. I immediately sketched it and knew I had crossed into the world of Surrealism for good,” she says. Her career took off, and she received numerous accolades over the past four decades, including having her painting “Passage” featured on the cover of Art Business News in 2002. “Surrealism allows me to paint whatever my heart desires. Realistic with unrealistic connections, it is painting things that do not exist in the world the way cameras see it,” says Ora. “I paint driven by an instinct within me that directs me…it is painting from the unconscious.” She views each new painting as an adventure, taking her down an untraveled path. She prefers to paint in solitude, with no sounds or distractions. “I paint by soul, never bending to trends or criticism. I live true to my wonderful obsession,” she says. “By gazing at a finished piece, I get what the story is. Surrealism is an art form that lets the viewer make up their own story. All stories are different, and all of them make sense.” She finds inspiration in the desert, rocks, the beauty of the human body, modern dance, ballet and science fiction. “I stare at people and landscapes, and they appear disguised in my paintings. I never use models; they live in my head,” she says. Ora prefers the deep, brilliant, rich colors of oil paint, and she works in layers, applying fresh paint on a dry painted layer. “My backgrounds depict the Israeli desert which I love, especially the area close to the Dead Sea. My colors are the colors of the Mediterranean, the vivid colors of Israeli beaches and land,” she says. She uses watercolor, inks and acrylic for accents in her drawings, but only sparingly since her drawings are mostly black and white. Ora and her late husband, Eli Tamir, immigrated to California in 1980, where they raised three teenagers. As her business manager, Eli helped her tremendously with many aspects of her career. His passing in December 2016 was such a devastating loss to her, she had trouble painting at first, but when she did pick up the paintbrush again, she continued with her surrealistic images, only now they are a bit softer. Her faith helps her stay grounded, and she keeps up with all Jewish traditions. “I love to listen to rabbis, and I frequently attend a synagogue, especially when there is a guest speaker,” she says. “I highly respect Orthodox Jews and credit them with keeping our people going for thousands of years.” During the Arizona Fine Art EXPO, Ora will exhibit new surrealistic paintings and drawings as well as some of the originals from her private collection, which have never been offered for sale to the public. The fine art show is open rain or shine. Season passes cost $10; season passes for seniors and military are $8; and children under 12 are free. Parking is free. For details, call 480-837-7163 or visit ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com.

Meet the artists in over 120 working studios! JANUARY 11-MARCH 24 26540 N Scottsdale Rd • Scottsdale, Arizona ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com 480-837-7163 10-week Season Pass $10; Military/Seniors $8 • Open Daily–Rain or Shine–10-6

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K I D S

and teens too!

Ellie Fern - local artist wins title of Jewish Star

Ellie Fern

By Cindy Saltzman

On Dec. 18, 2018, Ellie Fern won a spot as a grand prize winner in the Jewish Star North American Talent Search Contest presented by Jewish Rock Radio. As part of the prize package, Ellie will receive coaching from an internationally-acclaimed Jewish celebrity, a professional studio recording session, an all-expenses-paid trip to attend SLBC ’19, and international exposure on an exclusive Jewish Rock Radio broadcast. Since early childhood, music has been her passion. She plays the piano, guitar, and the ukulele. In addition to singing, Ellie writes her own music, "That's how I express myself," she says. A junior at Chaparral high school in Scottsdale, Ellie was contacted by a friend about the competition and encouraged her to submit an audition video. According to their website, the "Jewish Rock Radio’s Jewish Star North American talent search is a new competition designed to identify emerging talent in the Jewish community who have a passion and desire to impact the Jewish world. A panel of international celebrity music artists will judge the applications to select the winners based on their vocal, instrumental, overall performance skills, and passion for impacting the Jewish world. The public 44 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

will also have the opportunity via social media to contribute to the judging stage." One of the rules of the competition is that the song must include an “identifiable Jewish theme, value or holiday.” Ellie's explains that her song, “Miss Anxiety,” "reflects the Jewish values of perseverance and community.” The Fern family, Ellie’s parents, Howard and Reesa and brother, Austin, are members of Congregation Or Tzion. Ellie attends Hebrew High every week and spends her summers at Camp Ramah, which she describes as her “favorite place ever!” When Ellie is not writing music or performing, school activities keep her busy. She is a member of the National Honor Society, the vice president of the choir, and participates in the Best Buddies club which pairs students with peers with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A busy schedule doesn't stop Ellie from giving back to the community as she also volunteers at homeless shelters, St.Mary's food bank, Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research and dog rescues. As for the future, Ellie wants to "'make a difference in the world with music." You can follow Ellie on Instagram or Facebook @ elliefernmusic.

Teens gather to enjoy interfaith Shabbat Lighting the Chanukiah (menorah) with a BBYO teen (Mimi Yonover), a teen from the Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ (Sophia Tellez) and a teen from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Charlie Liddle). Photo courtesy of ADL Arizona

n Dec. 7, BBYO celebrated the 2018 Global Shabbat with an unprecedented interfaith Shabbat dinner, inviting teen youth groups of many faiths to come together in peace to build community. BBYO partnered with the Jewish Community Relations Council and the Jewish Community Foundation Youth Philanthropy Board of Greater Phoenix. The event’s theme was “Let There Be Light” and the event was held at the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center. More than 100 teens representing seven different faiths joined with BBYO to help shine a light on the beauty of so many young people celebrating similarities rather than focusing on differences, all while bringing multiple communities together as one. Included as part of the evening was a panel discussion featuring religious leaders representing all faiths of the teens represented at the dinner. The following religious leaders joined the panel to help share the beauty of faith in all its forms within a teen led panel discussion: • Rabbi Micah Caplan – Congregation Or Tzion • Azra Hussain – Islamic Speaker’s Bureau • James Whitaker – Franciscan Renewal Center • Dr. Farshad Fani Marvasti – The Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’i’s of Scottsdale • Dr. Russell Taylor – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints • Dennis Hubert – Unity of Mesa • Rev. Carol Reynolds – Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ

Arizona Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League, Carlos Galindo-Elvira, also addressed the teens and implored them to continue the evening’s dialogue and to speak up when they see that somebody is being bullied or treated unfairly because of who they are. In reflecting on the evening’s program, local Mountain Region BBYO Aleph Zadik Aleph Teen President, Ryan Marmis, shared, “We discussed how our faith played into each of our lives and how we can begin to end the violence and hatred being drawn between members of other faiths. At the end of the evening, we concluded that our faiths are rooted in one thing: love.” Sophia Tellez, a teen with the delegation from the Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ wrote, “I really liked the common theme which was ‘light.’ I interpreted it as God is the light and, as his children, we are to spread his message which is so powerful that if one of us speaks up it will create a spark and eventually a fire.”

The full group of participants at the Global Shabbat held Dec. 7.

“Working with the religious leaders and youth directors from the different religious groups was such an inspiring and positive experience. Seeing all our teens come together to build an interfaith network that opens discussion and understanding across so many faiths was incredible. This is such an important dialogue for these young people who are already becoming the leaders of tomorrow. Global Shabbat is just the beginning of an exceptional program year in Mountain Region, and we are thrilled to be moving into 2019 with such amazing energy and potential for growth,” says Barrie McAlister, senior regional director for Mountain Region BBYO. BBYO welcomes all Jewish teens in grades 8 through 12 in/around Phoenix. For more information about Mountain Region BBYO, contact Aaron Wiener, Associate Regional Director, at awiener@bbyo.org or 480-481-1789.

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This house feels so Wright T his 1978 Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home is available for the next lucky owner to purchase. When the house was new, the current owner would visit her high school friend there and fell in love with it. Almost 30 years later she and her husband purchased the home and decorated it with help from designers Kristin Fredstrom and Stacy Meisterheim. The couple wanted to be true to the vision of the original architect and Wright apprentice, John Rattenbury, yet they also wanted it to be comfortable for their family of three children. Although the house had lived through eight owners and had been remodeled several times, the original architectural elements and footprint remained untouched. Most of the furnishings throughout the home are custom pieces by the designers, such as the living room’s leather bench with visible seat rails

and movable bolster pillows. The designers used a color palette of cream, charcoal and chocolate with rust and copper accents, and designed furnishings that reflect many of the architectural details such as the geometric design of the silk-and-wool area rug and a pair of stepped square coffee tables that mimic the windows. The house is 5,091 square feet with four bedrooms and five-and-a-half bathrooms, with upgrades in both the kitchen and bathrooms. The home also includes two offices and a mudroom. An entertainer’s dream, the home can easily hold more than 200 people. The resort-like backyard features a pool house, built-in barbecue, heated pool and a fire pit with seating area. For more information on this property, contact Janice K. Delong at 602-315-0159 or jdelong@ roiproperties.com.

Above: Two groups of outdoor furnishings in the back yard invite guests to linger by the pool, whose geometric shape complements that of the house. The dining table and chairs under the porch extend the indoors outside. Far left: The handforged iron-and-glass chandelier in the dining room, a custom piece by designers Kristin Fredstrom and Stacy Meisterheim, was inspired by one at Frank & Albert’s, a restaurant at the nearby Arizona Biltmore. Left: The color palette and geometric shapes complement the architectural style of the home. PHOTOS BY KEN HAYDEN

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New Year

New You

By: Tori Rosenblum With the end of 2018, comes time to reflect on the year’s highs and lows, the good and the bad, the most sought-after and most questionable fashion trends. And like the beginning of everyone’s typical list of new year resolutions, it’s time to purge yourself of all things holding you back from being your best self in the upcoming year – that includes tracksuits, fanny packs worn as cross-body bags, logo-covered anything, and ’90s-inspired chunky dad sneakers and Matrix-style sunglasses. Setting goals for the new year – especially ones relating to your fashion choices – can be daunting. But, I can think of a laundry list of wearable trends worth trying in 2019.

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DOTING DOTS (previous page) Word on the street is that polka dots will be the pattern of the year. Dive headfirst into the trend in a polka dot coat, blouse or pants if you are looking to make a bold statement. Or, choose to dote the dots on a purse or shoe for a more moderate approach to the trend. Either way, the traditionally preppy print will be a must-have.

BRIGHTEN YOUR LIFE Take hot hues for a spin in 2019. Try your hand in bright pinks, oranges, reds and blues – don’t shy away from color, embrace it! Throw a vivid blazer, coat or sweater over just about anything to accomplish a bold look.

SHOULDER THE ’80S While retro throwbacks can be dangerous when it comes to fashion–like the resurgence of the ’90s I previously mentioned – I’m loving a very specific nod to the ‘80s. Embrace the powerful woman inside and choose a blazer with shoulder pads. These defined shoulders will make a statement whether paired with slacks or a skirt in the office or with jeans and boots on the street.

So, as you say goodbye to 2018 and all the fashion faux pas that came with it, make room in your life and in your closet for all the good coming your way in this new year.

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SPREAD YOUR WINGS Retire your sequins that you wore so well in 2018, because some of the biggest names in fashion featured feathered ensembles on the runway. Elevate your wardrobe with this luxe accent. Whether you wear a full-feathered dress, a feathered hem or maybe an accessory with a feathered detail, this decorative trend will take your outfit to new heights.

CORNER

Wings gone Wild Recipe and photo by Lucia Schnitzer

This recipe is sure to become a family favorite and can be made vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free. It’s easy to make and takes very little preparation time. Great for game night, an after-school snack or an appetizer. Serve with your favorite dressing and veggies on the side – enjoy!

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Ingredients Avocado oil cooking spray (or coconut spray) 3/4 cup almond flour (or regular flour) 1 cup water 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder salt and ground black pepper to taste 2 heads cauliflower, cut into bite-size pieces 2 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup hot pepper sauce (such as Frank's RedHot) 1 teaspoon honey 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast Ranch dressing for dipping Carrot and celery sticks

Instructions Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place parchment paper on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray. Mix flour, water, garlic powder, salt and pepper together in a bowl using a whisk until batter is smooth and a little runny. Add cauliflower to batter and mix until cauliflower is coated. Spread onto the baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned, 25-30 minutes. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in hot pepper sauce and honey, Stir until smooth. Brush hot sauce mixture over each cauliflower piece, repeating until all the hot sauce mixture is used. Bake in the oven until cauliflower is browned, about 15 minutes. If a crispier texture is desired, broil for 3 minutes. Remove baking sheet from oven and allow the cauliflower to cool 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle nutritional yeast over cauliflower. Serve with ranch, carrots and celery.

Lucia Schnitzer and her husband, Ken, own Pomelo (a full-service restaurant), Luci’s at The Orchard and Splurge (a candy and ice cream shop), all at The Orchard Phx, 7100 N 12th Street, Phoenix. They also own Luci’s Healthy Marketplace, 1590 E Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, which they opened in 2009 in Lucia’s honor after her successful battle with breast cancer. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 49

ACTIVELY SENIOR

Survivor’s reunion in Paris - part deux By Mala Blomquist

On July 7, Charlotte Adelman set out on a remarkable journey to Paris, France to be reunited with the son of the family that hid her during the Holocaust (for part one of the story visit azjewishlife.com and search Survivor’s Reunion in Paris). She traveled with members of her family including her daughter and son-in-law, Roz and Seth Goldberg and grandsons, Jeremy and Jacob Goldberg. Her brother, Max, who lives in Paris, so met them there. Jeremy works as a design manager for Facebook and had shared the story about the reunion with his coworkers, so Facebook sent a crew along with them to shoot video during the trip. Charlotte was concerned how she would recognize the boy that helped hide her from the Germans more than 70 years earlier. Roz came up with the idea that the reunion should take place at the Shoah Memorial (Memorial de la Shoah) in Paris. When Charlotte and her entourage arrived at the memorial, Alain Quatreville was waiting for her on a bench. “When I first saw him, in France you don’t attach yourself right away when you don’t know a person, so I was a little bit distant with him,” says Charlotte. “He said, ‘No, no we are family,’” and the two embraced. Then they lit a candle together at the sight of where Charlotte’s mother’s name is on the wall at the memorial. “It was really something special,” she recalls. Alain explained that his sister, Ginette, who cooked and cared for Charlotte while she was in hiding, was paralyzed and bedridden but it would mean a lot to him if Charlotte would visit her. The next day, Roz arranged for a van and driver to take them to the Ardennes, the village where Charlotte was hidden in the basement of the Quatreville home during the war. When they arrived, there was a large group of people from surrounding villages who had heard she was coming and had 50 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Charlotte Adelman with Alain Quatreville.

traveled to meet her. Michel Piquard was one of those people. His family had owned a bakery, and after the war when bread was being rationed, he would arrange for the Quatrevilles to get extra loaves because he had a crush on Charlotte. She also met Christine Dollard-Leplomb who wrote a book in 2006, Sauveteurs d’etoiles en Ardennes, about the people hidden in Ardennes during the war. Charlotte’s story was in that book. Charlotte had visited the Quatrevilles one year after the war ended but had not returned since. “I felt very emotional when I saw the house,” she remembers. “I was treated like gold. It was like my home; they were like my parents. Not too many survivors can go back to where they were.” She wanted to see the basement of the home but when they approached they were told that the owner was ill and they were not allowed in. Charlotte noticed that the house has been completely renovated, as have most of the buildings in Ardennes. The one building that has remained untouched was the church across the street from the Quatreville’s home. The church stands today as a memorial. If the Nazis found out that someone was helping Jews, they would take their entire family to the church and kill them. “Most of the people who lived in that village before the

war now live in surrounding villages.” Says Charlotte. “It was touched too much by the war for many people to stay there. They couldn’t take it because of all the atrocities that happened there.” Alain resides today in a neighboring village. Charlotte says that it hurt her to return because, “It reminds me of a lot of things about my mother and my father, but it’s a beautiful city. It deserves to be seen.” She was so glad she was able to reconnect with Alain and visit with Ginette. They also celebrated her brother 80th birthday while in France. With Max living in Paris, Charlotte doesn’t get to see him too often. The most cherished souvenir she brought back from the trip was a book that Alain had made more than 70 years ago. In it were photos from when Max and Charlotte had visited that one time after the war.

A little help. A big difference.

Charlotte with Ginette, who cooked and cared for Charlotte while she was in hiding.

“Photos of me and my brother and the family,” explains Charlotte as she flips through the pages. “The church and home, the Grandmother, father, mother, Alain and friends.” Roz had told her, “Mom, I can’t believe that you were in that village.” To which Charlotte replied, “I told my kids, when I told you that story, now it was proven.” Charlotte and Alain continue to correspond via Facebook messenger. She admits that now the presentation she gives to various groups throughout the community will have to be redone to include the part about the reunion. She says that everyone is always telling her that she is amazing and that she is always smiling. “You know what? I survived. If you want to survive, you survive. I say I am smiling because I’m happy that I survived.”

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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 51

ISRAEL

Journalists enjoy multiple aspects of Israel

By Leni Reiss

From left, Lisa Hostein, executive editor of Hadassah magazine, Leni

During my attendance at the 2018 Jewish New Media Reiss and Gary Rosenblatt, editor/publisher of The Jewish Week of Summit in Jerusalem this past November, I was forced to make New York on the grounds of President Rivlin’s home. a difficult decision. One full day of the four-day invitation-only conference had us, 140 journalists from 30 countries, chalMoshe Basson. Many dishes here, served family style, are lenged to select one of four tracks, all dealing with different inspired by foods mentioned in the Bible. Menu selections aspects of life in Israel. I opted for the culture track, relating to include fig stuffed chicken with sweet and sour tamarind sauce; various aspects of arts, culture and cuisine. Jerusalem artichoke soup with almond milk; What an opportunity, it was, to learn about fire-roasted eggplant and raw tahini with some positive and creative aspects of this aged pomegranate syrup and veal sweetbreads miraculous country. with chickpeas and aioli. We began our day at the Ma’aleh School We then headed to Hutzot HaYotzer, the of Television, Film and the Arts, where artist’s colony established in 1967 by Tedstudent-created films examine social issues. dy Kollek, the late mayor of Jerusalem. We Head of School Nita Ariel explained that explored a complex of workshops and met its goal is to “help to define our country, to artisans including fabric artist Dalit Freiman, make our society vibrant and meaningful.” a seventh-generation Israeli. Courses address all aspects of cinematogDialogue and discussion raphy and script writing, and professionals The conference, sponsored by Israel’s often volunteer to lend their expertise. We Ministry of Foreign Affairs and organized saw two films. One, “Barriers,” about IDF by its Government Press Office, was packed soldiers at a checkpoint, had a dramatic and with dialogues and discussions on key topics unpredictable ending, while “The Little Dicrelated to Israel and the Jewish world. tator” was a laugh-out-loud treat. Both are During a tour of the Knesset, Prime Minworthy of Jewish film festival inclusion. ister Benjamin Netanyahu popped in for a Dance, dining and artistry Leni Reiss at the Ma’aleh School of surprise visit. In the building to cast his vote Our next stop had us on our feet, learnTelevision, Film and the Arts. in a series of bills, he fielded softball quesing and attempting some Jewish and Israeli tions from an awed audience. At one point he dance steps with an enthusiastic instructor. acknowledged to our group of print journalists, We were at “Dance Israel” at the Gerard Bechar Center. This is bloggers and media mavens representing Jewish communities an experiential dance workshop where folk dancing is geared worldwide, that most Israelis have relatively little interest in toward “connecting with the country’s dreams, dramas and diaspora Jewry. achievements.” Volunteers from our group did their dancing Along the same lines we learned from one government dressed in garments representing Israeli immigrants from Yespokesman that indeed, a curriculum is being launched for men, Russia and Poland. Israelis “to learn about diaspora Jewry. It would be the opposite These energetic efforts on the part of typically sedentary of Birthright,” he said, with groups of Israelis exploring Jewish journalists were a perfect lead-in for lunch at The Eucalife beyond their homeland. lyptus, a busy kosher restaurant under the guidance of chef And Reuven Rivlin, Israel’s tenth president, addressed the 52 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

same issue when we met with him at his private residence. “Projects are being considered to change what Israelis know about the diaspora,” he told us. The warm and grandfatherly head of state invited us to “feel at home.” He said he was glad we have the opportunity “to see Israel at this time. It is a good life here. There is so much to be proud of.”

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We attended sessions on “The modern faces of anti-Semitism,” “The information revolution and diplomacy,” “Israel’s image around the world,” and Social and technological innovation.” There was a substantial number of bloggers among us, and they were recognized and acknowledged as members of “the new media.” It was clear that conference organizers were courting this ever-increasing journalistic iteration. A case in point: The topic of our closing session was “How does a Young Generation of Diaspora Jews View Israel?” A stop at The Shuk No visit to Jerusalem would be complete without a visit to Mahane Yehuda Market, often referred to as “The Shuk.” In this marketplace, more than 250 vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, baked goods and more. In keeping with a Reiss family tradition, I purchased a good-sized chunk of halvah from the Halvah King. I was at the Shuk for a quick stop on a Thursday, and it was crowded with shoppers stocking up for Shabbat. In recent years the marketplace has become a popular weeknight social center, with restaurants, bars and live music. Paying respect I also rode Jerusalem’s sleek and modern light rail to Mount Herzl Park, the burial place of visionary Theodor Herzl, and paid my respects at his gravesite. Mount Herzl is the resting place of Israel’s presidents, prime ministers, speakers of the Knesset and other dignitaries. There are sections dedicated to Israel’s fallen soldiers, along with monuments for victims of hostile acts. All in all, a short visit that encompassed new experiences, sights and tastes and too-brief reunions with colleagues. The downside was that our schedule was so dense we were hardpressed to connect sufficiently with fellow participants and share professional challenges in these complicated times.

Toby

Weinstein

(602) 228-0265 tobyre4u@aol.com

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 53

YOUNG ADULTS

The souper heroes of ASU

By Melissa Hirschl Chana and Rabbi Shmuel Tiechtel

In the microcosm of Arizona State University, it is predictable students are going to suffer from the aches and pains of colds, the flu, and everything in between, particularly in winter months. Thanks to the Rohr Chabad House at ASU, when bugs bed down, souper heroes are available to come to the rescue. For more than ten years, Chabad Rabbi Shmuel Tiechtel and his wife Chana have been supplying ailing students with an exceptional brand of TLC – homemade chicken soup, replete with savory vegetables and matzo balls. Also known as “Jewish penicillin,” the soup is cooked by Chana, and then stored in a freezer. It can then be served piping hot to students who request it through an online portal. The Tiechtels began soup deliveries a short time after starting the Chabad House, 15 years ago. They realized the need sick students had for not only the medicinal value of soup but the warm fuzzy of love and comfort it provides psychologically. “Many times parents are far away, even if they reside in Arizona,” says Rabbi Tiechtel. “It’s not a good place for the students to be – alone and stuck in bed. We wanted to make them feel better and have an experience that reminded them of home.” The idea for the soup was originally intended for Chabad students but soon expanded to non-Chabad students and nonJews as well. “We are happy to help, whoever it is,” says Rabbi Tiechtel. They even received national attention when CBS National News covered their story. “We received positive feedback from people all over the U.S. after it aired,” says the rabbi. “Soup angels” also include Office Administrator for the ASU 54 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Chabad House Anna Pena, ASU Chabad Outreach Director Rabbi Mendy Rimler and wife, Sarah, who is the program director. Students themselves are also part of the “paying it forward” theme, as they deliver soup as well. Inspired by the love and dedication of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, The Tiechtels moved to Tempe from a “small town back East, called New York” as the rabbi jokingly calls it. He and Chana started a small Chabad House at ASU, which expanded quickly. “We knew that students want connection, and a family comfort feeling,” he explains. “What we offer is love and acceptance of you, for who you are.” The Chabad House aims to cater to many dimensions of student life and offers a multitude of stimulating classes and welcoming Jewish experiences. Shabbat dinners, classes, events, programs, and barbeques (Chababq’s) are just a sampling of their rich and varied offerings. “Every student needs a caring adult in their life,” says the rabbi. “The students know we are here for them. We want to meet students needs; whether it’s a safe space, soup, or learning about Judaism – putting up mezuzah, putting on tefillin, or even dealing with roommates. Some of our fun activities include sushi nights, basketball events and game nights. Our goal is to be a home away from home for students. We are a lighthouse for education for both the Jewish and non-Jewish community.” To order soup, visit jewishasu.com/soup; to donate to the program, visit jewishasu.com/givesoup.

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If only I could stop the clock right now

By Amy Hirshberg Lederman Today is my 65th birthday. It would also have been the 100th birthday of my father, who passed away on September 18, 2018, Erev Yom Kippur, just four months prior to his centennial year. Today I celebrate many things amidst the sadness of losing my dad whose death, although deeply felt, was not a tragedy. It was the ultimate outcome of a life well lived by a man well loved. Today, I celebrate a growing awareness: the knowledge of the imperative to cherish what we have rather than to fall into the pit of focusing on than what we have lost. Because, in our lives, if we are fortunate enough to have love, we will inevitably have loss. It is part of the human equation, a necessary part of the human condition. Looking at life, being aware of how precious and precarious it is, makes me more fully understand what my dad used to say when I was a little girl. “If I could only stop the clock right now,” he would muse, leaving the rest of the sentence unfinished. Stopping the clock – an image which suggests an appreciation for those rare moments in time when everything is going well, is not possible. But what is possible is to be mindful of and grateful for the time we are given, and to use the precious hours and days we have to create a life of meaningful choices and relationships. When we are young, we feel that we have “all the time in the world.” This sense of unlimited time is a reflection of our youth, good health, optimism and energy, often based on the idea that we have limitless possibilities – unencumbered by liabilities or health-related limitations. As we age and our family and work increase, time takes on new meaning. Like Jesse James, we become consummate thieves – stealing a few minutes or hours from one activity to create time for another. Juggling our calendar, multitasking through our day and feeling the pressure of never having enough

time becomes the norm by which we navigate the demands of raising families, working, and making time for the people and things we love. In our “golden” years, when energy and health often elude us, we take stock of time in a totally different way. We slow down, mentally and physically, and look at what is most meaningful and essential, knowing that we have a limited amount of time left to enjoy and experience what we value most. The equation becomes an imperative to choose wisely and well. Jewish tradition has much to teach us about the concept of time because it acknowledges a dual perspective: historical time and cyclical time. Historical time is chronological time and affords us an opportunity to evaluate and take stock of our life as we move through it, giving us a chance to determine how we want to live and what we want to change. It provides a sense of optimism because it reminds us that we are always capable of change. The Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur liturgies are replete with prayers and expressions that confirm this way of viewing time. Cyclical time, as expressed through our Jewish calendar and lifecycle events, helps us appreciate the recurring patterns of the seasons and the year, of natural life cycle events that are inevitable. Birth, coming of age, marriage, children, grandchildren, loss and death frame our references for the stages of life that we encounter with the passing of time. How we measure and use the time we have in our lives is up to us. It is the combination of these two types of time – historical and cyclical – that govern our personal, communal, national and even international lives, choices and commitments. And ultimately, time is dictated, not by the hands of a clock, but by our own hearts, minds and consciousness. Or, as expressed so well in the wisdom of Ecclesiastes: “To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.”

Amy Hirshberg Lederman has written more than 300 columns and essays that have been published nationwide. amyhirshberglederman.com

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 55

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JDAIM events in February

Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month is a unified effort among Jewish organizations worldwide to raise awareness and foster inclusion of people with disabilities and those who love them. Established in 2009 by the Jewish Special Education International Consortium, JDAIM is observed each February. Here are some JDAIM events happening in the Valley in February: Feb. 1 – JFCS Brighter Tomorrow Luncheon 11:45 am-1:30 pm at the Arizona Biltmore, 2400 E. Missouri Ave. in Phoenix The luncheon is their annual flagship event showcasing Jewish Family & Children’s Service’s impact on the wellbeing of nearly 50,000 people in the Valley. Features guest speaker Paul Gionfriddo, president and CEO of Mental Health America. To register, visit jfcsaz.org or contact 602-567-8334. Feb. 8 – Gesher Disability Resources Community Luncheon 11:30 am-1 pm at the Ina Levine Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale Gesher Disability Resources (formerly Council For Jews With Special Needs) brings actor and advocate dad, Ed Asner, to the Valley to speak during their luncheon. Joined by his son Matt Asner and daughter-in-law Navah Paskowitz-Asner, the three will share personal stories about being a parent to a child with a disability, which was the inspiration behind the newly opened Ed Asner Family Center in Los Angeles. To register or for more information, visit gesherdr.org.

Feb. 10 – Limmud AZ 9 am-4 pm at the ASU Conference Center at Memorial Union, 301 E Orange Mall in Tempe Join Limmud AZ for a full day of Jewish learning featuring workshops, discussions, arts, music, performances, text-study sessions and more. For more information, visit limmudaz.org. Feb. 12 – Fresh Perspective: Supporting Jews with Special Needs 7-8:30 pm at Congregation Or Tzion, 16415 N. 90th St. in Scottsdale “Special needs,” “disability,” “inclusion” – so many ways to describe individuals in our community who have differences. Hear what those words mean to a mother of a young adult, a disability agency and an individual. Rabbi Nate Crane will 56 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

moderate a panel through which these speakers can tell their stories sharing what support means to them in both the secular and Jewish communities. For information or to register, visit valleybeitmidrash.org. Feb. 17-18 – Judaism, Science & Medicine Group Conference Scottsdale Plaza Resort, 7200 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale The Judaism and Disability: New Genetics, Disability Studies and Practical Interventions conference explores how genetics and genomics help to understand and treat genetic diseases; the diverse conceptions of physical and mental disabilities in the sources of Judaism in light of the new discipline of Disability Studies; the social, cultural and psychological dimensions of disability and the work of Jewish organizations to empower and include people with disabilities. Sponsored in part by the Center for Jewish Studies at Arizona State University. For more information or to register, visit jewishstudies.clas.asu.edu Feb. 23 – Simchat Shabbat Noon-1 pm at Congregation Beth Israel, 10460 N. 56th St. in Scottsdale Join Gesher Disability Resources (formerly Council For Jews With Special Needs) for their monthly Simchat Shabbat service. Simchat Shabbat is a free and fun service where all are welcome. Reservations for Simchat Shabbat are not required but appreciated. Please call the Gesher offices at 480-629-5343 or send an e-mail to jacquelyn@gesherdr.org to RSVP or for more information. Feb. 24 – Special screening of “Hava Nagila: The Movie” 10 am at Harkins Shea 14, 7354 E. Shea Blvd. in Scottsdale

As part of the 23rd Annual Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival, running Feb 10-24, a free screening of “Hava Nagila: The Movie” will be shown for an audience of Jewish teens in grades 6-12 from Valley synagogues, and more than 100 members of Gesher Disability Resources (formerly Council for Jews with Special Needs) and their caretakers. This sensory sensitive screening will raise awareness and highlight inclusion while at the same time providing an entertaining and educational cinematic experience. This particular screening will be shown with the lights up and the volume lowered, and audience members are free to move around, talk, or even dance in the aisles during the movie. Note: Limited seating available. RSVP required to jacquelyn@ gesherdr.org

FEDERATION NOTES Looking forward By Marty Haberer As I complete my second year as CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, I take great pride in where the organization is going. We have concluded our 2018 development efforts and raised nearly $5 million, which includes a $3.5 million annual campaign – an increase of $100,000 over last year. To our generous donors and supporters, I say thank you. The increase is exciting because, to me, it is an indication of the growing engagement of more and new members of the community stepping up to help Jews in need and to build vibrant Jewish communities here in the Valley, in Israel and around the world. We are seeing a new generation of young leaders emerging and working with our established “guard.” Indeed, we are proud to have seven young members from our Federation sitting on the Jewish Federations of North America Young Leadership Cabinet of 250 cabinet members from 147 Federations across North America. It is our mission to strengthen and engage a vibrant Jewish community while providing for Jews in need wherever they reside in the world. This mission is the foundation for our four pillars of core impact: Engaging the next generation, Enriching senior lives, Caring for Jews in need and Building Jewish community. This last pillar is new for our organization and provides an opportunity for so many of our unaffiliated members to enter our “community tent” through a “tent flap” that is comfortable and meaningful to them. For example, Federation is proud to help bring “Violins of Hope” to our community. Through a series of exhibitions, concerts and educational programs in February and March, tens of thousands among our community, Jewish and non-Jewish, will learn about the Holocaust and the importance of valuing differences and diversity. “Violins of Hope” features 60 violins that were played during the Holocaust, many by those who were lost. Each violin has been lovingly restored, and each has a unique story. As a community and as a Federation, we have much to be excited about as we enter 2019. With your help, together, I know that we will move to new heights in the coming year. Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2019! Marty Haberer is CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix

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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 57 J-AZJL-12-2018-HV.indd 1

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FACES & PLACES

WATER IN THE DESERT – On Dec. 7 Valley Beit Midrash hosted a lecture about water and food security in Israel led by Ben-Gurion University Professor Noam Weisbrod, middle. Also pictured, Andrew Hoffer from Ben-Gurion University, left, and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz. NOTHING BUT NET – Braxton Lynch has that nothing-but-net feeling about the Phoenix Suns Charities grant the Valley of the Sun JCC received for its newly launch Jeff Berkowitz Youth Basketball League, teaching kids to be champions on and off the court. Photo credit Tressa Toomer

FACES OF GESHER – Clockwise above: from left, Amy Hummell, Gesher executive director, greets guests Marla Crown and Marty Keller at the Gesher 2018 annual fundraiser, Nov. 3 at Chateau Luxe. Becca Hornstein gets a hug from special guest emcees Mallory Lewis and Lamb Chop, and honoring the event theme, The Faces of Gesher, that’s Marcia Weisberg behind the mask. Photos by Leni Reiss. SUPERCALI.... –Valley of the Sun JCC Youth Theater kids getting ready for the production of Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr., that ran Nov. 29 and Dec. 1 & 2. In the front are Asher Stein and Madison Broughton. In the back left to right are Caden Becker, Yael Cohen, Sadie Feinberg, Sawyer Furio, Chase Anderson, Brendan Hauss, Addison Nelson, Greer Ginis, Emery Kutz, Tamara Rifkind, Michelle Schwartz and Bella Brown.

58 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

BLESSING OF THE PETS – Rabbi Jeremy Schneider blesses one of the more exotic pets to attend the Blessing the Pets Event on Dec. 2 at Temple Kol Ami.

FACES & PLACES

WHAT WERE WE WATCHING – On Nov. 14, The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum presented “What Were We Watching? Americans' Responses to Nazism Through Cinema, Radio and Media” to more than 350 guests at ASU. From left, Mi-Ai Parrish, Daniel Greene and Kevin Sandler.

HOT CHOCOLATE RUN – Participants at the start of the inaugural 5K/1K Hanukkah Hot Chocolate Run at the Tucson JCC on Dec. 2.

CUB SCOUT PACK 210 – On Dec. 2 the first Shomer Shabbat/Kosher Cub Scout Family Pack in the nation was presented its official charter from the Grand Canyon Council of the Scouts of America.

GELT TRIP – Children wait for the gelt to fall at the Chabad of the East Valley’s menorah lighting and Chanukah gelt drop on Dec. 2 at Superstition Springs Center.

PEARL HARBOR DAY – Dec. 7 at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, had both Commander Rochel Hayman of Post 210 of the Jewish War Veterans and Commander Michael Chambers of the Department of the Southwest Jewish War Veterans present wreaths at the USS Arizona Memorial to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, HI. Pictured: Commander Rochel Hayman and her children Moshe Dovid & Ester Eta Margolin with Governor Doug Ducey.

PHILOSOPHY LECTURE: Professor Mendes-Flohr's presented a lecture on Martin Buber at Congregation Or Tzion on Dec. 10. From left to right, Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, Professor Paul Mendes-Flohr of the University of Chicago and The Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and Hava TiroshSamuelson, director of Jewish Studies and Irving and Miriam Lowe Professor of Modern Judaism and professor of History at Arizona State University. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 59

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PREVIEWS

STORY BEHIND THE WOMAN IN GOLD

In 1907, painter Gustav Klimt painted Viennese socialite Adele Bloch-Bauer. The painting, called the “Viennese Mona Lisa” is a golden portrait that shimmers like a giant jewel and has a fascinating history. Join Jan Krulick, jewelry historian, museum and art consultant as she shares fascinating stories about the painting that include politics, legal battles, affairs, fashion, jewelry and Nazi looting. The talk will be held on Jan. 9 at 11 am at the Valley of the Sun JCC at 12701 N. Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale. The cost is $15 per person ($5 for members). For more information, or to register, visit vocjcc.org/lady.

KLEZMER FEST

The East Valley Jewish Community Center is holding a Klezmer Fest in January that includes a Klezmer concert and film screening at the Chandler Center for the Arts on Jan. 10 and a Klezmer Musical Festival at the EVJCC on Jan. 13. On Jan. 10 at 6 pm at the Chandler Center of the Arts at 250 N. Arizona Ave. in Chandler there will be a concert performance by Yale Strom, the world’s leading expert on Klezmer music. After the concert, there will be a screening of the film “The Last Klezmer” a documentary about Polish composer Leopold Kozlowski. The Klezmer Music Festival will be held on Jan. 13 from noon to 5 pm at the East Valley JCC at 908 E. Alma School Road in Chandler. The festival will feature musical performances, children’s activities, kosher food for sale and the “Yiddish Experience” with genealogy workshops, Yiddish poetry readings and songs, lectures and crafts. Tickets for both the concert and festival are $15, $5 for ages under 12 (for the festival). For more information, visit evjcc.org/klezmerfest.

MAH JONGG TOURNAMENT

The 13th Annual Mah Jongg Tournament is coming to Congregation Anshei Israel at 5550 E. Fifth St. in Tucson on Jan. 20 from 9 am to 4 pm. Everyone is welcome to participate! Check-in begins at 9 am, with play beginning at 9:30 am sharp, followed by lunch at 12:30 pm. Play resumes at 1:30 pm, with prizes awarded at 3:30 pm. $36 entry fee includes lunch, game and prizes for the top three scorers, plus each round winner gets a prize. All proceeds benefit CAI's United Synagogue Youth. Registration & payment required by Jan. 13 (no walk-ins allowed). Participants are asked to bring new underwear and/or socks, or gently-used sweatshirts and sweatpants for women at Sister Jose Women’s Center. The Center provides unaccompanied homeless women with a stable and safe environment to recuperate from the daily struggle of homelessness and extreme poverty. Please bring items with you the day of the tournament. For more information, contact 520-745-5550 or visit caiaz.org.

60 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

“JERSEY BOYS” SET TO ROCK THE STAGE AT PHOENIX THEATRE

Phoenix Theatre is priming its acoustics in preparation for a feel-good, rags-toriches story featuring the music of one of the best-selling musical groups of all time, The Four Seasons. As part of its 99th season, Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road in Phoenix, is honored to be one of the first regional theatres in the country to produce “Jersey Boys.” The show runs Jan. 23-March 10. “You cannot beat the music of Jersey Boys,” said Director Larry Raben. “You forget the genius of their songs until you sit through a two-hour evening of wall-to-wall hits that transports you to another time and place. The show will electrify your soul with the performers’ unbelievable harmonies and magical voices!” The show takes audiences on an emotionally-rich journey following the rise of Valli and the original Four Seasons – Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. It shines a spotlight on their innate musical talents, ability to write their own songs, and their introduction of a unique, harmony-rich sound no one had heard before. They were so unique and successful, and they sold nearly 200 million records worldwide before they were 30 years old. “Jersey Boys” tickets are on sale now and start at just $29. To purchase by phone, call 602-254-2151 or visit phoenixtheatre.com.

LIMMUD AZ DAY OF JEWISH LEARNING

Limmud AZ will be held on Sunday, Feb. 10, from 9 am to 4 pm at Arizona State University in the Conference Center at the Memorial Union in Tempe. Limmud AZ is a full day of Jewish education featuring workshops, discussions, arts, music, performances, text-study sessions and more. There will be more than 40 presenters, with 10 sessions per hour to choose from. This year there will be an added bonus as actor, activist and author, Ed Asner and his son and daughter-in-law, Matt Asner and Navah Paskowitz-Asner, will be on hand to share their knowledge, personal life experiences and information on their new project, The Ed Asner Family Center. Tickets are $36-$50 adults, $17 for teens and college students and $15 for Kidz Camp. For more information or to register, visit limmudaz.org.

VIOLINS OF HOPE

Israeli violinmaker, Amnon Weinstein, has devoted the last 20 years to locating and restoring violins that survived the Holocaust as a tribute to those who were lost, including 400 of his own relatives. He calls these the Violins of Hope. Weinstein has restored more than 60 violins to reclaim this lost heritage, give a voice to the victims, and reinforce positive messages of

PREVIEWS

hope and harmony. Violins of Hope is a two-month event that includes exhibits, lectures, concerts and educational programs across the Valley. This is the first and largest collaboration of nonprofit organizations to be implemented throughout the state. The program will be in Arizona in February and March. The violins will be featured in orchestral and chamber concerts throughout the Valley. The instruments will also be on display at the Young Arts Gallery in the Scottsdale Center for the Arts from Feb. 26 through March 24. A photography exhibit titled “Amnon Weinstein, The Man Behind the Music” will be on display Feb. 3 through March 27 at the Arizona Jewish Historical Society. Many events are free or low-cost to encourage participation. Violins of Hope is a project of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix. For more information, visit violinsofhopephoenix.com.

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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 61

JANUARY CALENDAR Through Jan. 5

Jan. 10

Illumination, Symphony of Light. See page 12.

Buffalo Bash at Buffalo Collection, 7044 E. Fifth Ave., Scottsdale from 5:30 to 8 pm. Serving “Buffalo Buzz” signature craft cocktails, delectable hor d’oeuvres & live music. Free. For more information, visit buffalocollection.com.

Jan. 2 Current Events Discussion Group at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 2 to 3:30 pm. Bill Adler leads stimulating discussion each month on current events. Bring your ideas to share with the group. Free. For more information, contact Harriet at 480-481-7033 or harrietc@vosjcc.org.

Jan. 2-20 It’s Not You, It’s Me – The Second City at Phoenix Theatre, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. With Valentine’s Day looming, February is a month that makes us all take stock in our love lives. Whether you can’t wait to shower your “bae” with affection or you wish this whole month would eat dirt and die, this show is exactly what you need. “It’s Not You, It’s Me” is an improvised adventure into the modern dating scene and the age-old phenomenon that is falling in love. For more information, visit phoenixtheatre.com/secondcity.

Jan. 3 JFCS’ Memory Café at Beth El Congregation, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix from 10 to 11:30 am. Memory Café is a setting for persons with memory challenges to engage in fun, enriching activities win a nurturing and accepting environment. The January café features Michelle Dionisio, a movement teaching artist, who will explore a variety of dances with the group. Includes coffee and refreshments. No fee, but please rsvp to Kathy.rood@jfcsaz.org

Jan. 6-20 Tucson International Jewish Film Festival. See page 38.

Jan. 7 The Great American Songbook with Concert Pianist Jim Correnti at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 11 am to noon. Back by popular demand, Jim returns with the sounds of celebrated show tunes, songs of the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s and a mix of legendary classical works for an exhilarating hour of music. Members: $5; Guests: $15. Register at vosjcc. org/concert.

Jan. 9 Story Behind the Woman in Gold. See page 60. 62 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE

Greater Phoenix Economic Outlook 2019 at the Biltmore Financial Center, 2398 E. Camelback Road #180, Phoenix at 5:30 pm cocktail reception and hor d’oeuvres; 6 pm program. Presented by the The Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix Business & Professionals Division Real Estate and Finance, featuring Elliott Pollack. $ 18 professionals, $10 students. For more information, visit jewishphoenix.org.

Jan. 10 & 13 Klezmer Fest. See page 60.

Jan. 11-March 24 Arizona Fine Art EXPO. See page 42.

Jan. 13 Gesher Disability Resources Goes to Detour Theatre. Join Gesher Disability Resources for a performance at 2:30 pm at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. The performance will be “Shrek.” Detour Company Theatre is free and fun to attend. Reservations are not required, but appreciated. Please call 480-29-5343 or send an e-mail jacquelyn@gesherdr.org if you plan on attending.

Jan. 15 Art Appreciation at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 11 am to noon. Share the world of art with docents from the Phoenix Art Museum. This month, explore Art Over Adversity. Free. For more information, contact Harriet at 480-481-7033 or harrietc@vosjcc.org.

Jan. 20 Mah Jongg Tournament. See page 60.

Jan. 23 A Tribute to the Soldiers of WWI at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 11 am to noon. Guy Benoit, historical researcher and grandson of a WWI veteran, pays tribute to the soldiers of his French hometown and the Lafayette Squadron and

Doughboys, including battles fought by the Allies and the American Expeditionary Force, furthering the everlasting alliance and bond between the two countries. Members: $5; Guests: $15. Register at vosjcc.org/soldiers.

Jan. 23-March 10 “Jersey Boys.” See page 60.

Jan. 26 An Evening with the Mentalist Brett Barry at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 7:30 to 8:30 pm. Brett Barry knows what you are thinking. The question is how does he do it? Call them mind games. Call them word mysteries. Minds will be read. It’s an unforgettable evening of a roller coaster ride with twists and hairpin turns that will astound you. In partnership with Temple Kol Ami. Members: $20; Guests: $25 with preregistration. Members: $25; Guests: $30 at the door. Register at vosjcc.org/ mentalist.

Jan. 26-28 West Valley Jewish Film Festival. See page 40.

Jan. 28 Sex, Sexuality & Older Adults in the Sacred Encounter at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 1 to 2 pm. Rabbi Richard Address, founder and director of Jewish Sacred Aging, examines human sexuality from a Jewish perspective, including biblical and rabbinic views on sexuality at different points in the life cycle, in marriage and the challenges of contemporary sexual ethics. Members: $5; Guests: $15. Register at vosjcc.org/sacred.

Jan. 31 Lunch & Learn at The J: Jewish Free Loan at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Learn more about interest-free loans for continuing education, travel to Israel, starting a business, health needs, adoption and more, all without the worry or burden of compounding interest. Bring a dairy lunch or stop at milk + honey. Complimentary dessert included.Free - Preregistration is required by Jan. 28 at vosjcc. orgloan.

Feb.-March Violins of Hope. See page 60.

Feb. 10 Limmud AZ. See page 60.

ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | JANUARY 2019 63

Tribute Concert

honoring Holocaust Survivors and Those Who Perished

March 19 | 7:30pm Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Featuring violinists Gil Sharon and David Ehrlich, pianist Teresa Ehrlich and clarinetist Nikola Djurica with the Red Rocks Music Festival Orchestra. Special guests Lin Sue Cooney and Avshi Weinstein.

To purchase tickets: violinsofhopephoenix.com

64 JANUARY 2019 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE