MAY 2018
INSIDE
A Golden Age For Aging Chai life on a Harley A tour of Jewish Shanghai
LARRY KING
Still Reigning Strong
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 1
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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 3
Arizona Jewish Life • May 2018 • Iyar-Sivan 57 78 • Volume 6/Issue 8
18
FEATURES
AC TIVELY SENIOR
COVER STORY
Golden age for aging Sun Sounds of Arizona brings survivor’s story to all Online safety for seniors Hannah and Phil Adelman: Celebrating 18 yeas of serving seniors The Palazzo: New renovations create senior oasis The “young” Volunteers for Israel Some things get better with age Senior directory
Larry King: Still reigning strong 18 JEWS WITH ATTITUDE Chai life on a Harley 12
26
34
BUSINESS Olgin+Efune Recycling Company turns trash into cash Biz Ins & Outs FRONT & CENTER Barbara Becker creates art…and fun Gail T. Roberts: A passionate and practical artist
14 16
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To Life! Running to catch up with myself 66 An evening with Annabelle Gurwitch 68 Federation notes 69 Previews 70 Faces & Places 72 Calendar 74
HOME & LIFESTYLE The art of water-wise gardening Dressing for you, not your age
32 34
ISRAEL Dairy company doesn’t let Israelis forget Shavuot 60 A walk down Tel Aviv's New Independence Trail 62
4 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
46 48 50 54
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28 30
COLUMNS Chef’s Corner by Lucia Schnitzer A Taste of Arizona by Michael Rosenthal Family Time by Debra Rich Gettleman To Life! by Amy Hirshberg Lederman
42
JLIVING
FOOD Chef’s Corner: Cha-Cha-Cha Chia Pudding A Taste of Arizona: Rock Springs Café
TRAVEL A tour of Jewish Shanghai
38 40
24
JKIDS & TEENS TOO Kids Calendar 56 Family Time: Nerf gun violence 57 Making memories with mom 58
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36
ON THE COVER: LARRY KING PHOTO COURTESY LARRY KING
APRIL CORRECTIONS:
The caption on page 52 improperly identified Sandra Charyn Bernoff. She was seated fourth from right,
64
not left. On page 55, Shalom Home was identified as “… the
28 30 57 66
only Jewish, nonprofit, kosher, assisted-living facility in the state.” This statement is incorrect as there are other facilities in the state that fit this description.
“Wendy Kesselman’s finely textured new DIARY tells a deeper story. Sensitive, stirring and thoroughly engaging.” — NY NEWSDAY
One of the most powerful stories of the 20th Century. DRAMATIZED BY
Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett ADAPTATION BY
Wendy Kesselman DIRECTED BY
David Ira Goldstein MEDIA SPONSOR PHOENIX
PRODUCTION SPONSOR
04/21/18 – 05/12/18
SEASON SPONSOR :
MEDIA SPONSOR TUCSON
05/17/18 – 06/03/18
I. MICHAEL & BETH KASSER ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 5
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A rizona Jewish Life | Iyar-Sivan 5778 • Volume 6/Issue 8
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O
ne of the best things about creating magazines each month is learning about the cover person. This month especially, it was exciting to have an interview with the interviewers of all interviewers, Larry King. He is one of those rare celebrities whose fame spans all age groups and demographics. At 84, he shows no signs of slowing down and why should he? He is busier than ever with his talk shows, online communications program and even a luxury home goods line developed with his wife, Shawn. But he balances his busy schedule with family time with Shawn and his two teenage boys Chance and Cannon, and time for his beloved sports teams. He is an icon, and he does not disappoint. In our special senior section this month, we wanted to showcase what it really means today to be “Actively Senior.” Senior life today is going through a renaissance. It is such an interesting and exciting time – with all of the options in living and recreation for our senior community – it really is a “golden age for aging.” And finally, with Mother’s Day just around the corner, we at Arizona Jewish Life want to wish all mothers (and those who assume the responsibility) everywhere a wonderful Mother’s Day.
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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 11
Jewswith
Attitude
Chai life on a Harley
Jewish Motorcyclists Alliance members from riding clubs across the country stop in Needles, CA, with the Colorado River in the background. From left, Ilan (Eli) Navon (NY), Ilan Nahum (NY), Doug Faigel (AZ), Nico Berlin (Charleston), Jeff Chernoff (FL), Nevin Heitner (AZ), Michael Feldman (MI), Jodii Zimmerman (AZ), Max Heeres (AZ), Harvey Wershbale (AZ), Sheldon Smaye (Canada), Peter Anderson (AZ), Stuart Kaufman (Charleston) and Richard Moses (FL).
By Mala Blomquist
Did you know that there are Jewish motorcycle riding clubs all over the world – and that we have one here in Arizona? It’s true! Max Heeres is the founder of the Lost Tribe of Arizona, for motorcyclists that share a common bond of Judaism and a love to ride. The Lost Tribe of Arizona is open to Jewish riders and those Jewish by affiliation. “Usually it means a spouse or anyone who would like to ride with us, but they need to know it’s a Jewish group,” explains Max. “My wife is not Jewish, but she is very much for this.” The Lost Tribe of Arizona is a member of the Jewish Motorcyclists Alliance which has chapters all over the United States and in Israel, South Africa, England, Australia and Canada. Max started the riding club about a year ago after being involved with Lost Tribe of Virginia Beach when he worked in Virginia. “We have 31 members, but about half of them are active.,” he says. “We meet for dinner once a month, and then 12 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
have rides two or three times a month. Sometimes we’ll have a big weekend ride, and sometimes it’s just a day ride.” The group hosted a “meet and greet” in March, inviting other members of the JMA to come here for a “real tour of Arizona.” They had 18 people on 16 bikes, and Max admits it was a challenge to keep track of everyone in traffic, “We had three radios (communicating), and we managed to keep the group together the whole time.” The next event that Max is preparing for is the Ride 2 Remember. This JMA-sponsored national event is held in honor of Holocaust victims and survivors. The ride takes place in June and each riding club bids for a chance to host. “The bid is basically what charity we are raising money for; it’s all about Holocaust education,” says Max. “This year, it’s in Cleveland, OH, and it’s all about the hologram project they are working on.” The project Max is referring to is The Survivor Memory Project at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage in Beachwood, OH. In partnership with the USC Shoah Foundation, a local Holocaust survivor will participate in a
The Lost Tribe of Arizona
Lost Tribe of Arizona members in Oatman, AZ, from left, Nevin Heitner, Doug Faigel and Max Heeres.
is a member of the Jewish
Motorcyclists Alliance which
has chapters all over the United
States and in Israel, South Africa, England, Australia and Canada.
two-day interview. The session will be specially filmed to create a 3D hologram. When a person visits the museum, they will then be able to interact with the hologram, hear the survivor’s voice and listen to their stories. Max admits the holograms elicit a powerful reaction. “It’s very, very emotional. I grew up in Israel, I grew up with survivors telling their stories, it was very touching. You do this big event, you raise money for something like this, and that’s what you get in return – those emotional moments.” This year will be Max’s seventh R2R. “We do a ceremonial
ride in whatever city we are in,” he says. “We have 200 to 300 motorcyclists riding across the city with police escorts holding up the lights, and all these people are held up in traffic, and they are watching you go by with the Israeli flags and everything – it’s a great show of force. It’s a very proud moment.” Max looks forward to these rides and says each time he goes he makes new friends who are Jewish motorcyclists. “When you ride with people it creates a bond, you become really good friends,” he says. “Now imagine riding with Jewish people. It’s such a powerful bond, it’s hard to describe, but you become very strong friends very quickly because you have so much in common.” For more information, visit the riding club’s Facebook page at facebook.com/groups/LostTribeAZ.
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 13
Business
The team from Olgin+Efune Recycling Company, from left, Chad Olgin, Julissa Portillo, Marc Olgin, Becky Palacio and Brad Efune.
Olgin+Efune Recycling Company turns trash into cash By Mala Blomquist
Brad Efune and Chad Olgin have always been in each other’s life – albeit indirectly. Brad is two years younger than Chad but they both attended The King David School (now closed and Pardes Jewish Day School resides at that location), they both went to the University of Arizona, and they both worked for Tucson Iron and Metal while in college. Less than a year ago the two connected to become business partners. Marc Olgin (Chad’s father) has been in the recycling industry for 40 years. Chad has been involved in the family business for almost 10 years. Marc started in Pennsylvania, and alongside his father, Jerry, grew their business to become the 10th largest scrap metal recycling company in the country. 14 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
Marc moved to Arizona in 2004 and ran a facility here called Liberty Iron & Metal Holdings. Then in 2016, the Olgin family sold their interest in Liberty Iron. Brad had been working for a recycling company in California and had been doing business with Marc and Chad. “I moved back to Arizona to be closer to my family, and I met with Chad and Marc,” says Brad. “It was about a year after they had sold their company, and we decided to open up something ourselves.” The business they opened is Olgin+Efune Recycling Company. They are a wholesale recycler of ferrous (iron, steel, cast iron) and nonferrous (copper, aluminum, brass) metals. Brad handles the nonferrous side of the business. “We ship copper, aluminum and brass mainly to China, Korea, Japan,
Taiwan, India and Southeast Asia,” he says. He explains that once the metal gets shipped, it is melted down for use in various manufacturing needs. “Say we ship a load of high-grade copper to Korea. They melt it down and make it into copper foil or wire that goes into cell phone chips, chargers and medical devices,” says Brad. “Every window frame you’ve ever seen is a made from a certain type of an alloy of aluminum. We sell our aluminum to an aluminum mill in the United States that makes window frames.” Marc handles the ferrous side – the steel and iron. Iron mainly stays in the United States. There is a large steel mill in Mesa. With steel, a lot of the scrap becomes rebar used in construction. The advantage to recycling metal is that the strength of the metal does not erode over time as plastic does.
“We are not a scrapyard; we are a recycling company.” – Brad Efune
Chad and Brad are newer players in the industry. “Marc is this old-school scrap guy, and Chad and I are more recyclingminded and trying to add value to supply chains and shift focus,” says Brad. “We are not a scrapyard; we are a recycling company.” Brad says that in the early 1940s the scrap metal business was probably 90% Jewish owned. It all started in Detroit, Indiana and the Midwest – where the auto manufacturers were located. “It was considered such a lowly business – taking apart junk cars – that the only people that really did it were these old-school Jewish guys who found a way to monetize it. I would say today that all the big players in the industry still are Jewish.” He jokes, “Any convention you go to you could probably have five different minyans every day.” Since it is an “older generation” business there tends to be a lot of nepotism in the industry as children learn the business from their fathers and grandfathers. Brad estimates that there are about 50 people in the industry in the United States, and they are a very tight-knit group driven to succeed. Brad says that a lot of people ask him if he’s a “junk guy.” He jokes, “I always tell girls I’m a commodities trader. So she doesn’t run away until she actually gets to know me.” He admits that he if anyone had told him this would be his occupation 10 years ago, he wouldn’t have believed them. “There is a whole other world that exists after you drop something in the trash can or drop your old refrigerator off,” says Brad. “There is a lot of machinery that has put recycling ahead of where it was even a few years ago. Trash is cash.” To find out more about Olgin+Efune Recycling Company, visit oerc.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.
7325 E. Princess Blvd. Scottsdale, AZ • 480.359.1345 MaravillaScottsdale.com Ca sita s | Cou rt ya r d R esidences In depen den t & A ssisted Li v ing | Memory Ca r e ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 15
BIZ
INS INS INS & & OUTS OUTS & OUTS
Violins of Hope
Marc and Tracey Frankel
Violins of Hope receives grant Violins of Hope, a project of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, was recently awarded a grant from the Newton and Betty Rosenzweig Fund for the Arts through the Arizona Community Foundation. The Rosenzweigs were ACF’s very first donors who made a planned gift to leave a legacy supporting the community they were so passionate about. In their honor, ACF created an endowment to support arts and culture to benefit Arizona residents and communities. Violins of Hope tells the remarkable stories of violins played by Jewish musicians during the Holocaust. Israeli violinmaker Amnon Weinstein has devoted the last 20 years to locating and restoring 60 violins as a tribute to those who were lost, including 400 of his own relatives. He calls these the “Violins of Hope.” The Violins of Hope program will be in Arizona from February through March 2019. Through concerts, museum exhibition and comprehensive education programs, children, adults, educators and seniors will learn, connect and understand more deeply the significance of the Holocaust, the lessons learned and how these lessons apply to our world today. violinsofhopephoenix.com
Portland couple bring award-winning pizza to Tucson Marc and Tracy Frankel opened Pizza Luna at 1101 N. Wilmot Road in Tucson on March 13. The Frankels recently moved to Tucson from Portland, OR, where they operated a chain of 18 restaurants, including the award-winning Pizzicato and Lovejoy Bakers. They started Pizzicato in 1989 in the back of a convenience store. Most of their locations are in the Portland area, although they also have franchise operations in San Diego and Encinitas, CA. Pizza Luna describes their pizza as Neo Neapolitan, thin crust pies that combine baking science, curated ingredients and 16 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
honed technique. The dough is cold-fermented for three days and baked at a high temperature producing a light and buttery crust, with a hint of sour and a delicate crunch. The pizzas are topped with house-made mozzarella and artisan toppings. pizza-luna.com
Jason and Jordan Rose – the hosts with the most Jason and Jordan Rose of Paradise Valley were among the 100 other notables like Cindy Crawford, Rande Gerber, Heidi Klum, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon who made the 2018 “Salonniere 100” list for their extravagant parties. The Salonniere 100 spotlights honorees from 34 cities and 28 states in the United States and represents a diverse and brilliantly creative group of men and women who share one common trait: an exceptional ability to leverage the power of parties to enhance the lives of others. Also honored in the Phoenix area were Bob and Renee Parsons. A special focus was placed on those who entertain with enthusiasm, creativity, passion and flair. Jason Rose, a native of Phoenix is the co-founder of Rose+Moser+Allyn Public and Online Relations and co-founder of the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Horses & Horsepower and the Stella Artois Derby DayClub at Turf Paradise. Jordan Rose is founder of Rose Law Group, the state’s largest female-owned law firm. rosemoserallynpr.com
Jewish Community Foundation announces 2018 grants The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix announced its 2018 discretionary grants, totaling $224,312, including $16,000 in small grants, to benefit the Jewish community locally and in Israel, through its unrestricted
Jason and Jordan Rose
Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix
Oshrat Barel
Janice Auerbach
Rabbi Ruven Barkan
endowment funds, the Jewish Women’s Endowment Fund and other “field of interest” endowments. Chaired by Francine Coles, the Foundation’s grants committee awarded 24 grants to the organizations and programs including the Anti-Defamation League, Jewish Genetics Diseases Center, Be-Atzmi, Eretz Ir, IT Works and many more. New this year, the Foundation added two funding categories: existing programs that address an unmet need; and in Israel, programs that specifically aim to improve relations between Jews and Arabs. “Last month, I visited a new grantee in the latter category. We delivered Shaloch Manot to Arab neighbors in Abu Tor, which straddles East and West Jerusalem. We explained the meaning of Purim and introduced them to an economic development project, which is part of the program we funded. It was pretty incredible to see how neighbors in this mixed community co-exist,” says Sheryl Quen, JCF director of grants. jcfphoenix.org
Everyone can be a “math person” with the help of Janice Auerbach
Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona welcomes Oshrat Barel
The Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona has appointed Rabbi Ruven Barkan to the part-time position of director of Tucson Hebrew High. Rabbi Barkan will also continue his position as education and youth director at Congregation Anshei Israel. Rabbi Barkan was born and raised in Tucson, and has 11 years of experience as rabbi-in-residence at the Chicagoland Jewish High School (now Rochelle Zell Jewish High School in Deerfield, IL), his first position after rabbinical school. His background includes study in Israel, working as a counselor at Camp Ramah in California and undergraduate work at the American Jewish University in Los Angeles. He was ordained in 2001 at Jewish Theological Seminary in New York. tucsonhebrewhigh.org
The Weintraub Israel Center’s first woman director and its sixth shlicha (emissary from Israel), Oshrat Barel, completes her transition this month to vice president of the Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona’s community engagement department. The new department will facilitate collaboration among three existing program areas including the Jewish Community Relations Council, the Coalition for Jewish Education and the Weintraub Israel Center. Oshrat earned her bachelors’ degree in economics and management from the Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo and her MBA from Netanya Academic College. She worked for the Joint Distribution Committee and the Jewish Agency for Israel, and ran educational programs to train community leaders. Oshrat was director of the Beit Shean-Emek HaMaayanot-Cleveland Partnership2Gether for five years before arriving in Arizona in 2013.
What started out as a way for Janice Auerbach to help her daughter become more proficient in math, has grown into a business. Page A Day Math with the Math Squad is geared for ages 3 to 9 and provides step-by-step practice to promote confidence, independent learning and lasting math facts fluency. Janice has years of experience tutoring, math volunteerteaching and then teaching 5th and 6th grade pre-algebra. She believes that everyone can be a “math person” and she creates math books and tools that are colorful, fun and encouraging – helping to inspire to both the student and the parent. pageadaymath.com
Rabbi Ruven Barkan appointed as part-time director of Hebrew High
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 17
18 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
LARRY KING STILL REIGNING STRONG BY MALA BLOMQUIST
Larry King turns 85 on Nov. 19, and his career in front of a microphone turns 61 on May 1. He has conducted more than 50,000 interviews – getting to know the thoughts of athletes, movie stars, musicians, millionaires, politicians and presidents all while wearing his iconic suspenders. “I just always wanted to be in radio – I thought I would be a Dodgers announcer,” says Larry. “I’ve wanted it since I was 5 years old. I used to dream about it; I would imitate radio announcers. When I was a teenager I would visit radio shows that had studio audiences; I was fascinated by the whole area – sound, radio, the theater of the mind.” His father died of a heart attack when Larry was just 9½ years old. Larry didn’t go to college; after high school he worked odd jobs to help his mother out. He always held on to his dream of working in radio, so when someone suggested he check out the possibilities in Florida, he jumped at the chance. In 1957, he got a job at radio station WAHR (now WMBM) in Miami Beach “doing everything” from being a disc jockey in the morning to announcing sports in the afternoon. He was on the air for about two years when he was approached to do Coffee Talk at Pumpernik’s local restaurant. The restaurant owner wanted an interview show done on site, so Larry did an hour-long show every morning after his gig at the radio station. “I started interviewing people, in the beginning it was just visitors and waiters and then one day, Bobby Darin walked in, and I interviewed him – then Jimmy Hoffa,” remembers Larry. “That show really caught on, and newspapers started writing about it. I found my home as an interviewer. I relaxed, I enjoyed every minute of it. I was always curious, and that curiosity paid off.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF LARRY KING
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 19
LARRY KING His television career began about a year later. “I did a Sunday night television show, and Jackie Gleason would come on that show – everything took off,” says Larry. In 1978 he went national on Mutual Broadcasting System. “That was the first network radio talk show nationally.” He continued his media ascent, starring in “Larry King Live” from 1985 to 2010 on CNN. “Interviewing became my forte. If I wasn’t an interviewer; I’d be a sports announcer; if I wasn’t a sports announcer I’d probably do stand-up comedy. I’m a communicator – I like the whole ball of wax.” END OF ONE ERA, BEGINNING OF THE NEXT After leaving CNN, Larry did a comedy tour, sharing memorable stories from his lengthy career, but he quickly realized that he missed being on the air. “When Osama bin Laden was killed, that night I wanted to run somewhere and do a show – but I didn’t have anywhere to run,” he says. Larry would soon have somewhere to be “on” again, befriending Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim who helped finance Ora TV, a television production studio and on-demand digital network that launched in 2012. CEO Jon Housman came up with the name Ora, which is Larry’s wife, Shawn’s, middle name. Larry hosts two shows on this new platform, “Larry King Now” and “PoliticKING with Larry King.” “I’m still doing what I did back many, many, many years ago. I’m just transmitted differently,” says Larry. Shawn’s take on why they started Ora is a little different. “We started Ora TV because I was tired of having Larry in the house,” she jokes. Larry and Shawn also have launched Communication U, a free online classroom where Larry interviews the world’s bestknown communicators as they share their secrets of success. The basis for the course stemmed from Larry’s book, How to Talk to Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere first published in 1994. “It’s all about communication,” explains Shawn. “You make a lot more money if you’re able to communicate your thoughts in an organized fashion.” The couple’s most recent venture departs from the world of media. “Sleep Like a King” (sleeplikeaking.com) is a line of luxury home goods inspired by their stays at some of the finest hotels in the world. “When you go and stay in a beautiful hotel with great sheets – 20 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
there’s nothing like it – jumping into bed on beautiful, crisp, high-end, soft sheets,” says Shawn. She explains they are working directly with a manufacturer of luxury bedding, Sobel Westex, so they can offer the same high-end quality bedding to the masses at an affordable price. Shawn admits she is a little sheet and bedding obsessed. “We were staying in New York at the St. Regis, and I loved the sheets so much,” says Shawn. “Larry, being the romantic guy that he is, and the listener that he is, he had them send the entire bedding set to me. It was such a wonderful gift.” But Larry is not the only one good at surprises. “When Larry was turning 70, I was on the phone with Carrie Schnepf (of Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, AZ), bemoaning the fact that Larry has everything and he’s so hard to buy for,” says Shawn. “I couldn’t figure it out. So Carrie said, ‘I know what we can do.’ ” When the Schnepfs planted their cornfield for the season, they used special technology which allowed them to transform their 10-acre maze into a likeness of the celebrity. Since the image could only be seen from the air, Shawn arranged for Larry to go up in a helicopter to see his portrait in the acres of corn – complete with his signature suspenders and microphone. “Carrie donated proceeds from admission to the maze to the Larry King Cardiac Foundation,” she says. “We love Arizona and its people - we have lots of friends there.” Some of Larry’s past interviewees while on CNN include: Oprah Winfrey, Bill Clinton, Martha Stewart, Colin Powell, the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CNN.
Opposite page: Larry’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; he’s interviewed relevant political leaders including Donald J. Trump, Barack Obama and Shimon Peres. From his current show “Larry King Now,” interviewees Allison Janney, Chadwick Boseman, Celine Dion and Neil deGrasse Tyson. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ORA TV. Larry with one of his favorite interviewees Frank Sinatra, in 1984. PHOTO COURTESY OF LARRY KING.
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 21
Clockwise, left: Larry circa 1976; Cannon, who turns 18 this month, Larry, Chance, 19, and Shawn King with her father, Karl Engemann at The Magic Castle in May 2016; Larry and Shawn discuss products from their luxury home goods line Sleep Like a King; Shawn and Larry will celebrate their 21st anniversary on Sept. 5. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LARRY KING.
TWO PEOPLE, TWO RELIGIONS – OR THREE? Larry grew up in a Conservative, kosher home and he became a bar mitzvah. “I’m very Jewish socially,” he says. “I love Jewish humor, I love Jewish food, I like being Jewish, but I’m not religious. Shawn is a religious Mormon, so she believes, and I don’t.” Shawn: “You don’t believe in a God.” Larry: “I don’t. I used to, but then I faded.” Shawn: “Faded? That’s a pretty big fade!” However, he did hold a mock seder this year with Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal, the creators of the YouTube series “Good Mythical Morning.” “They asked me since they were not Jewish, and they were going to a home where a seder would be conducted, and they wanted a little practice,” says Larry. “I had my seder book and my tallit. I’ve done a lot of seders. The Last Supper that Jesus Christ held was a seder. He conducted the seder. All the people there were Jewish.” Larry made sure he had the traditional foods on hand too, including matzah and Manischewitz Concord Grape. “When you come right down to it, next to Cabernet, it’s my favorite wine. Manischewitz Concord Grape,” he says it, emphasizing every word. “There’s something about it, it has a lilt, it’s wine, but it’s also grape juice.” Shawn was raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and remains very active. “Mormons and Jews are culturally very similar,” she says. “The family is at the center of everything. 22 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
LARRY KING Family first, period, end of story.” After Shawn shares the importance of faith and family, Larry interjects, “I’m reading a book called Mormonism for Dummies.” Despite his lack of religious practice, Larry has been to Israel several times. Shawn: “He’s been promising me that he would take me to Israel since we were dating.” Larry: “I have a surprise, Shawn.” Shawn: “Oh, you have a surprise. Really?” Larry: “I’m interviewing Netanyahu the second week in June, and I’m taking you.” Shawn: “All right! When did that happen?” Larry: “Today.” Shawn: “You had four hours to tell me that!” Larry: “I came home and you were so busy, you were running around,” and then he adds “I’ll take her to Israel so she can visit her holy land. She can visit the birth of Christianity.” The two continue their endearing banter back and forth, which is not uncommon for the couple who have been married for 21 years this September. This time the focus was on what Shawn refers to as Larry’s “real religion” – baseball. Larry: “Shawn, you’re never going to make the (Dodgers) game, I’ll have to go ahead of you. You have an hour and 20 minutes. You’ll never make it.” Shawn: “My hair is dry. I’ve had a shower. Stop!” Larry: “I’ll give you your parking pass, I’ll give you your ticket – have a good time.” Shawn: “You’re witnessing Larry King at his normal….” Larry: “What? I like to be on time for things.” Shawn: “This is what I live with.” Larry: “Wait, what about what I live with? The game starts at 7:10 pm, I want to be there at 6 pm, so that I can have dinner.” Shawn goes on to explain that their seats are in the Dugout Club, so they have access to a buffet before, and during, the game. Larry: “…and Shawn arrives in the eighth inning for a hot dog!” Shawn: “Which is the time the most important stuff usually happens…” Larry: “Stop! It’s a great sport! Stop! Oh my gosh! I’m tired of this conversation.” Shawn: “Actually, Larry’s real religion is baseball.” Larry: “… and I love hockey, I love basketball, I love football. Baseball is my favorite. I love competition; I love tiddlywinks if its being played right, I like to watch checkers. The Dodgers are my favorite team. I grew up with the (Brooklyn) Dodgers.” LASTING LEGACY When asked who his favorite person to interview was, Larry is quick to respond. “That’s impossible to say, I’ve done it for so many years. But there’s a bunch of them: Frank Sinatra, Muhammad Ali, Nelson Mandela, Malcolm X, seven presidents.” The list is not as long though when you ask him his least favorite. “Robert Mitchum gave me a tough time. I admired his acting; he may have been drunk because he just one-worded me.” He says that he never really had a much of a problem with guests,” I’ve always been curious. I’ve been able to draw them
out, I don’t know what I do. I draw everyone out – except Shawn. I ask Shawn a question, and I get that famous thing all wives say – nothing.” Shawn is quick to defend herself. “No, there is no accuracy about this,” she says. “This is Larry going into his comedy act. I am the punchline in Larry’s life.” Larry regrets he never had the chance to interview Fidel Castro. “I went to Havana some years ago trying to get him. I spoke to people in the Assembly (National Assembly of People’s Power) in Cuba, met a lot of Cuban people, but it never happened. I would have loved to have interviewed him because he led his country for so many years, forget the politics when you lead a country that long … I would have loved to interview him.” He also has a current list of people that he would like to interview. “Right now, on my list would be the Pope – he’s always on my list, the British prime minister, the French president,” says Larry. “I’m always curious about anybody that I talk to. I love the whole world of asking questions.” Many of his interviewees and early radio personalities left an impression on him. “I used to listen to Arthur Godfrey as a child. He was a great salesman, a great broadcaster and he’s largely forgotten, and that’s a shame,” says Larry. “( Jackie) Gleason had a great effect on me, the great lawyer Edward Bennett Williams was a great friend, the late Mario Cuomo had a great impression on me, a lot of people affected me, they were mentors in a sense.” Throughout his career, he has won numerous awards. “I’ve won the only Peabody Award for a radio talk show,” he says. “I’m also the first person to get a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award, which I got in 2010, and then seven Emmy nominations. After a Lifetime Achievement, you’re supposed to die.” He has also received CableACE Awards and Webby Awards; he is in five “halls of fame;” and he has a star on Hollywood Boulevard. There is even a Larry King Square at the intersection of Sunset and Cahuenga Boulevards in Los Angeles. Larry jokes, “I’m dying to have an accident there so the police could write out – this occurred at Larry King Square and Larry King.” Shawn is quick with a retort, “The way he drives, I wouldn’t be surprised!” Despite Larry’s jokes and comfortable, relaxed demeanor, he takes on a tone of solemnity when asked about what he wants his legacy to be. “That he informed, he entertained, he added some knowledge to the world, he contributed. He did good things and he tried to help other people, and he’s happy he was part of the culture.” But the tone gets light again when he’s asked if there is a question that he’s never been asked but expects to be asked. “I’ve never been asked – I’ve said it – but I’ve never been asked, ‘What’s it like to be married to a younger woman?’ No one’s ever asked me that.” Shawn: “Really?” Larry: “No one has ever asked me directly.” Shawn: “Uh-oh! Hold on, here comes the punchline.” Larry: “When people see the both of us, they look at us, and they see the obvious difference in age. They look at me, they look at her, I know what they’re thinking, So, I always say the same thing – ‘If she dies, she dies.’ ” It’s obvious that Larry King can rely on his stand-up skills, sharp as ever, to keep him prepared for his next career move. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 23
FRONT & CENTER
Barbara Becker creates art... and fun By Melissa Hirschl
A
Above, right: Andrea, left, and Barbara Becker. Above and opposite page: Examples of finished fused glass pieces at Art for Fun Studio and Gallery.
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rt for Fun Studio and Gallery, located at the intersection of “fine arts” and “crafts” in central Phoenix, could not be more aptly named. AFF gives off an eclectic gallery vibe, but in essence, it’s a teaching studio where students can let their imaginations run wild with possibilities. Visitors are immediately drawn to the cheery ambiance and dramatic, colorful, glass wind chimes that grace the front windows upon entering. Shelves display copious amounts of hand-built pottery pieces, fused glass jewelry, plates, bowls and platters screaming “make me.” In addition to glass and hand-built pottery classes, owner Barbara Becker, along with her daughter Andrea, teach silk painting, acrylic painting and watercolor classes and mosaics made with clay and glass. According to Barbara, “It’s a nonintimidating and relaxed environment where you can learn art in a fun way. Often people come in wanting to buy something, but I encourage them just to make it themselves.” The beauty of AFF lies in its “open studio concept” and small, intimate classes. “Anybody can start at any time,” says Andrea. “You can have a beginner with people who have been here for three years. Students are always feeding off each other and inspiring each other.” Another feature of AFF is that kids 6 and up are welcome to create art or even indulge in summer camps. Outgoing, and possessing a keen sense of humor, Barbara has been a member
of Beth El Congregation since l987 and is currently president. When not involved with synagogue responsibilities, she loves nothing more than teaching art. “So many people will tell me they have no talent or creativity,” says Barbara. “I always tell them not to worry, because I have enough for both of us,” she laughs. AFF is a true community magnet. Girls’ night out, date nights, team building, kids classes, family parties, birthday bashes and family fun days all contribute to the studio’s growing popularity. Some students come weekly, while others come for a particular event. “Many times the students form friendships and meet outside the studio,” says Barbara. Jewish women’s groups such as Brandeis, Hadassah, Chabad and Temple Beth El Women’s League also gravitate to this kaleidoscope of a studio due to the tantalizing array of Judaica projects available. Examples are mezuzot, Chanukah plates, matzah plates, hamsas (glass and clay), sedar plates and challah covers, acrylic paintings and even silk tallitot. To spark creativity, Barbara and Andrea frequently show students sample pictures in books in addition to looking at pieces in the studio. Classes and conventions taken with eminent glass artists all across the United States have contributed to Barbara’s intimate knowledge of glass fusion. “My five-day class with artist and writer Richard La Londe in Washington was fabulous,” she says. Originally from South Africa, Barbara received a teaching degree in
Cape Town, as well as a master’s degree in remedial and gifted education. After relocating to the United States in 1984, she fully submerged herself into Jewish education and art endeavors, teaching a full spectrum of painting, drawing and even Art Masterpiece classes. The Jewish Valley Day School, Solomon Schechter Day School in Phoenix (which she founded in 1987), King David School in Scottsdale and Beth El Synagogue in Phoenix all utilized her unique talents. “The fact I have a teaching background helps me get things across to people,” she says. “I do everything step-by-step, which helps people relax. I always keep in mind the fact they have never done this before.” Barbara’s talents extend far beyond the walls of AFF. In 2010, Beth El Synagogue commissioned her to create an eightfoot by eight-foot fused glass mosaic mural. The commanding piece, titled “Jerusalem Wall” took nine months to create and is prominently displayed in the lobby as a donor wall. Entering the wall into an international glass competition, Barbara was delighted to have tied for second place with an Australian artist who won first place with a 22-foot dragon. “Soon after, I took a five-day class with her,” says Barbara. “When I told her who I was, she told me what an honor it was to study with me, and I told her I felt the same way about her. It was truly a mutual admiration society,” she says laughing. Barbara has the parents of her students to thank for the inception of AFF. They caught the same “art bug” their kids did and lobbied Barbara to teach them as well. “A light bulb went off,” she says. “After all these years of teaching children, I found out how rewarding it was to teach adults. I realized how many adults have had negative experiences with art; they don’t know how to draw or create. I have created a safe environment for them to do that. They can learn and not be afraid to be criticized. It’s not art school – it’s just recreational.” For more information on Art for Fun Studio and Gallery, contact Barbara at 602-274-6441 or visit art4funstudio.com.
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 25
FRONT & CENTER
Gail T. Roberts:
A passionate and practical artist By Sheila Wilensky
O
artist.” Their advice was to pick a profession nce a dental hygienist who chipped by which she could support herself. away at various artistic endeavors, When she was eight or ten years old, Gail T. Roberts is well known for her recalls Gail, her father convinced her to clay murals adorning Tucson. Not only are her enter an art show. “My father was really good murals vibrant, but they’re also serviceable, at sketching. Dad said, ‘you can do it’ but promoting donors from a University of he took over the project. I was humiliated Arizona sorority, to various neighborhoods because I entered and won. I never drew and organizations, to the Reid Park Zoo. again.” In 2008, in the midst of the economic Following her graduation from the recession, Gail devised the mural for large University of Michigan School of Dentistry rocks that stand at the entrance to the zoo’s with a B.S. in dental hygiene, a hygienist new elephant section. “Kids were getting colleague mentioned a ceramics class starting injured on those rocks. We made something at the local community college. Gail signed beautiful but also functional, threeup immediately. It was the early 1970s. dimensional, touchable,” she says. “We’re “I fell in love with ceramics, which problem solvers.” screamed at me ‘you’ve got to do this!’ ” Gail takes on projects by commission, The aspiring artist and her husband producing the murals by starting with paper (retired Pima County Juvenile Court Judge templates for the design. Every part of the Stephen Rubin) moved to Tucson in 1974. clay is hand-formed, then fired in an electric Gail T. Roberts Gail has never looked back. First, she tried kiln behind her backyard studio. creating ceramics on a potter’s wheel. Making stoneware became “We don’t smash plates. Even the tiny shapes,” she explains, “are a kick for a while. She presented an annual exhibit of plates and cut from a flat clay slab for background designs.” other dinnerware at her Tucson home, “all functional stuff. I was Becoming a flourishing artist didn’t come easy. Growing up in practical,” says Gail. a Detroit Conservative Jewish family, “art wasn’t encouraged,” says “Some artists stick with one thing they’re good at – I was Gail, who always loved to doodle. She admired creative types, but restless.” Discovering that she loved working with geometric shapes, her parents often reminded her of an uncle who was “a starving
The Owl Bench commissioned by the Little Lending Library located in the Catalina Vista neighborhood in Tucson.
26 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
Gail ventured into a whole new firing process. Raku firing, a process where pottery is fired at a relatively low temperature and then moved while red-hot to a closed container with materials, such as paper or sawdust, that ignite and cause a reaction creating colors and patterns in the pottery’s Children on a field trip to the Reid surface. Park Zoo in Tucson pose with the “It’s primitive and mural at the entrance to the spontaneous,” notes Gail. “I elephant exhibit. put on a fire suit and work in the open kiln with tongs and fireproof gloves. You take whatever you made and put it into a garbage can filled with combustibles,” transforming carbon into a design of beautiful black lines. That was twenty years ago. Gail felt she still had much more to learn in the field of art. She started taking art classes at the University of Arizona. Intrigued by her burgeoning knowledge of color, design and surface, Gail jumped into painting in acrylics, producing canvases of large vegetables and smaller still lifes. “I wanted to take a closer look at nature,” she says. By this time, she and her husband had two children, who are now grown. “I loved raising kids, but creating art fed my inner self.” In 1998, Gail was the founding director of the Perlman Art Studio at the Tucson Jewish Community Center, where she worked with young children. She also brought art experiences to children in Tucson Unified School District’s south side schools. Her passion – and success – as an artist reached her parents. “It was really sweet when my parents came for a few months and watched me work,” says Gail. At age 80, her mother started dabbling with clay in her daughter’s studio. This month Gail, with one or two assistants, will be teaching a mosaics class in an assisted living home for seniors. “It’s a way to keep seniors satisfied by being able to create something. It’s empowering for them,” she affirms. “Often in life, someone or some incident tells us we can’t do something,” as during her own youth, says Gail. “Making art comes from deep inside. We’re so vulnerable from criticism it can be very discouraging.” Keep at it, she advises. People may find creativity at an older age, which is great because “they haven’t learned to do things ‘wrong.’ ” Take a class in sketching or another artistic medium. You discover that making art isn’t innate. “You have to learn it,” says Gail. In her childhood Conservative Jewish home, she remembers, “we broke all the rules. Keep kosher at home, but you go out for spare ribs.” Ultimately, her fervor turned to trust in her intuition. “I thought, it’s OK to break all the rules. That’s what art does!” For more information on Gail and her art, visit gailtrobertsstudio.com.
JUne 1 - 30 West Valley | 623.776.8400
JULY 6 - 22
Central/East Valley | 602.252.8497
Buy ONE regular priced ADULT ticket and get ONE CHILD ticket FREE! Coupon Code: AZJLPoppins | Some Restrictions Apply
For venue information, visit
azbroadway.org/mary-poppins ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 27
CORNER
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. 28 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
CHA-CHA-CHA CHIA PUDDING Photo and recipe by Lucia Schnitzer
Once famous for creating the “hair” on clay forms in the shape of animals, cartoon characters or celebrities, chia seeds are now being recognized for their nutritional benefits. The seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber and antioxidants. As our bodies age, we tend to lose muscle mass and bone density, absorb nutrients less efficiently and have a more sensitive digestive system. Since our bodies start to age more quickly after we turn 30, it’s important to start incorporating healthy food habits early into our daily lives. Chia seeds can provide you with a good start towards providing your body with an extra nutritional punch first thing in the morning by adding them to water, juice or yogurt. They are also a perfect topping for salads and baked fish. Enjoy this fantastic chia pudding that is dairy-free, gluten-free and high in fiber – making it low in total carbohydrates. And I must admit that a memorable childhood moment for me was getting my Troll chia pet at Kmart. It’s funny how we never thought to eat the seeds then, but now they are a staple in my pantry!
Orange and Chocolate Chia Pudding Ingredients
1/4 cup chia seeds 1/4 cup coconut cream 1/2 cup water or almond milk 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon fresh orange zest, sugar-free orange extract or a few drops of orange oil 10 drops Stevia extract or 1/4 cup honey Whipped cream or whipped coconut cream and dark chocolate chips or dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions Mix the chia seeds, coconut cream, water or almond milk, cocoa powder, orange zest (extract or oil) and sweetener. If you prefer a smoother texture, use ground chia seeds (please note: ground chia seeds may taste bitter). Let pudding sit for at least 10-15 minutes or overnight (ideal) in the fridge. Chia seeds will absorb the liquid and thicken, so it may be necessary to add more water or almond milk to get the desired consistency. Just before serving, add whipped cream and dark chocolate. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 29
FOOD RESTAURANT REVIEW
taste of
Arizona Peach Crumb Pie
A true slice of heaven By Michael Rosenthal
You drive by it twice, every time you go back and forth from Phoenix to Prescott, Sedona or Flagstaff, and if you’ve never taken the Rock Springs exit, well you’re missing a true slice of heaven. Forty miles north of Phoenix, lies the tiny community of Rock Springs (population 3,339 including adjacent Black Canyon City), but don’t let the small size fool you. It has one of the most popular and longest operating restaurants in Arizona, the Rock Springs Café. How popular? Because the café is famous for its pies, I asked a server (who called everyone “Hon”), “How many pies does this place sell?” She said, “I can tell you this, we sold 12,000 pies the week of Thanksgiving.” If that isn’t enough of a recommendation for you to stop in, I will try to entice you with a few more details. The Rock Springs Café has been in continuous operation since 1918 serving home-style comfort food and baked goods. It looks every bit as much as an old western watering hole, and if you sit at the counter, you can mingle with the locals. Their offerings include full breakfasts, lunches and dinners, but oh those pies! I counted 17 different pies on the menu one day. They sell them by the slice or by the whole pie to eat in or to go. Usually, there is a line for pie to go, but it moves fairly quickly. You’re probably interested now so let’s get down to business. Over the course of several visits, here is what I had: 30 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
THIS MONTH’S RESTAURANT
Rock Springs Café
$$
35900 S. Old Black Canyon Hwy., Rock Springs 623-374-5794 rocksprings.cafe
Contact Michael Rosenthal at a.noshman@azjewishlife.com
Top Sirloin and Eggs $14.95
(Eggs any style) I usually avoid ordering steak and eggs because who wants that dried up thin piece of overcooked meat you are so often served, plus, this seemed a little pricey. Was I surprised to discover a real steak, charbroiled medium rare (as I ordered), along-side my perfectly cooked sunny side up eggs. The meat was nicely seasoned, juicy and tender. This breakfast is also served with a side of home fries, a mixture of crispy potatoes, sweet peppers and onions, and choice of toast. This dish was worth every penny and is highly recommended.
right. I saved writing about the best for last, the pies. Rock Springs Café has three categories of pies, cream, specialty and fruit. All of their slices are $4.95 and I never met a slice I didn’t like. I also never met the Tennessee lemon pie I so desperately wanted because they were always sold out. Anyway, here are some slices I did dive into:
Bourbon Burger
I’m not a fan of peaches, so this is the ultimate test. Is Rock Springs Café pie so good that I can order something I don’t really like and love it? The answer, yes! The peaches were firm and sweet, and the crust heavenly. The really great part was the crumb topping, a generous layering of crumbled sugared pastry. No need for à la mode, although it is available for only one dollar.
Cinnamon Roll $4.95
(No description – because it’s not on the menu) I was eyeing a piece of Tennessee lemon pie, which I had heard is like a custard, when one of the locals at the counter suggested I try a cinnamon roll because they just came out of the oven. I didn’t even know they offered them, nor did I know they were the size of your face when I ordered one. Out comes this huge, rectangular, crispy-edged, hunk of sugar glazed swirl – and I can’t wait to dive in. It was soft, warm, gooey, with all of the cinnamon goodness you would want. I asked the server for a to-go box because of the size of this treat, but I didn’t end up using it. It was just too good. I would have missed this if I hadn’t engaged in chit-chat with a stranger at the counter. Lucky me.
Bourbon Burger $13.95
(Caramelized onions with a sweet bourbon sauce on top) There are several burger options on the menu, but as soon as I saw caramelized onions and bourbon sauce in the same sentence, I knew this was for me. It’s a charbroiled burger, cooked just the way I ordered it, on a fresh bun. It is served with a good sized order of French fries, tomatoes, pickles and of course, the caramelized onions and bourbon sauce. It is such a pleasure to be served a burger at the temperature you order, especially when the server goes out of the way to ask you how you want it cooked. Sometimes I wonder why restaurants even bother to ask how you want it cooked since the chef pays no attention anyway. Rock Springs Café seems always to get it
Peach Crumb Pie
Cinnamon Roll
Apple Pie
An American classic served hot or cold, à la mode or not. There are two great parts of this pie. The first is their selection of apples and the second is the top crust. The apples are slightly tart which just goes to remind you that you are eating apple pie. I prefer this tartness to the sweet sticky type of apple filling. The top crust is a golden brown layer of pastry, sort of dense, and when you sink your teeth into a bite, it tastes like home.
JD Pecan Pie
This is my absolute favorite pie they make. The JD stands for Jack Daniels. Yep, there is definitely a splash of this famous Tennessee whiskey in the pie. You can taste it, and that is what takes it over the top. The pecans are crunchy. The pie is sweet. The crust is flaky, but oh that whiskey flavor just ties it all together. They do have a “virgin” version of this delicious dessert. If you want pecan pie without Jack Daniels, well they just call it pecan pie. Go for the JD. You won’t be sorry. On your next trip north, plan a stop at the Rock Springs Café. Weekends are their busiest time, just be patient. The people are friendly and the service is great, but they run out of things because they’re so good. They have an all-you-can-eat fish fry on some days, and specials, too. You can pre-order pies and have them shipped as well. This is how they sell 12,000 pies at Thanksgiving. You can take home a slice of Arizona, but be warned, you will keep coming back for more.
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 31
The art of water-wise gardening By Melinda Myers
M
aking a few changes in your garden care can yield great benefits. Less time and water wasted means more time for you to relax or entertain friends and family in your beautiful landscape. Water is critical throughout the life of a plant, but deciding when and how much water to provide each plant can be a bit overwhelming. Make this task easier and conserve moisture with these simple strategies. Start by matching plants to your growing conditions. Selecting plants suited to your climate, soil moisture and average rainfall means healthier, better-looking plants and productive gardens with less supplemental water. Incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil prior to planting. This helps the soil more efficiently absorb rainfall and irrigation water. Less runoff means less water wasted. Adding organic matter also increases the ability of fast-draining soil to hold moisture, extending the time between watering. Mulch the soil with organic materials such as shredded leaves, evergreen needles or woodchips. Mulching helps conserve moisture while suppressing weeds and improving the soil as it decomposes. Plus, you’ll be recycling landscape trimmings back into the landscape and the environment. It’s green gardening!
Mulch is essential to maintaining green gardening.
32 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
There will still be times you need to lend nature a hand. Sprouting seeds, young seedlings and new transplants need consistent moisture to grow and establish a root system. Most annual flowers and vegetables also need consistent moisture throughout the season. Newly planted perennials, trees and shrubs also need more attention and water than established plants with deeper roots able to absorb more moisture. During extended dry periods, even established plants will need supplemental water. Providing the right amount of water at the right time can be a challenge. Doing it efficiently to avoid wasting time or water can help ensure your gardening success. Take the guess work out of watering with a drip irrigation system like the DIY WaterWell Irrigation System Drip Line Kit (gardeners.com). Drip irrigation systems allow you to apply water to the soil right above the plant roots, exactly where it’s needed. Run a line next to each row of plants - or every 18” in planting beds. The water slowly seeps through the holes and into the soil below. The slow, steady flow moistens the root zone, encouraging the development of deep, drought-tolerant roots. Just turn on the faucet, set the timer and let the irrigation
Drip irrigation systems allow you to slowly apply water right above the plant roots, encouraging the development of deep, drought-tolerant roots. PHOTO COURTESY GARDENER’S SUPPLY COMPANY
system do the work. This reduces the risk of frequent, ineffective watering which leads to shallow roots growing just below the soil surface where they dry out quickly. High temperatures or missed irrigation can stress shallowrooted plants, reducing their beauty and productivity. The use of appropriate irrigation, mulching and organic matter can make a huge difference in the quality of your landscape – and your enjoyment of your garden! Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated “Melinda’s Garden Moment” TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Gardener’s Supply for her expertise to write this article. Melinda’s web site is melindamyers.com.
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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 33
Dressing for you, not your age By Tori Rosenblum
WHEN IT COMES TO WOMEN’S STYLE, there have always been rules stating that “women of a certain age” need to dress in “age-appropriate” outfits. But what does that even mean? You get to a certain age and can no longer follow trends, wear stylish separates and bold accessories? I think not! Just because you’ve reached a mature age, doesn’t mean that you have to turn in your fashionista flavor for a frumpy getup. I’m in favor of showing your true style in how you dress, no matter how many trips around the sun you’ve taken. Yes, there may be some trends like midriff bearing styles that should be left to the younger girls, but let’s face it, there are countless up-and-coming trends that can work for a woman of any age. So here’s how to evolve your wardrobe as you do:
CLASSIC BLACK Take your sophisticated black dress that hits below the knee and layer a cashmere cardigan or tailored black jacket over the top for more coverage. Pair with a beautiful black pump with an interesting detail, like a metal buckle, to add an inspiring flair to the classic black outfit.
DUMP YOUR DOWDY DUDS. The first step in owning your age and stepping up your fashion game is to retire lessthan-stylish items. I’m talking about your velour sweat suits; worn out and tattered clothing; items with dated trends (vintage isn’t always a good thing); and pieces that no longer fit properly like unflattering, baggy pants or tops that are a little too tight. LOAD UP ON YOUR STAPLES. After you’ve cleaned out your closet, it’s time to restock with the must-haves. These are items worth investing in because you can mix and match them to make countless different outfits for different occasions. The staples you need are neutral pants in black, grey, camel or navy; dark wash jeans; a denim jacket; wide-legged pants; a black dress; a tailored black jacket; a leather jacket; an oversized cardigan; a trench coat; a classic white blouse; and a leather jacket. These pieces can be put together to form sophisticated and dressy outfits or trendy, cool looks. DRESS TO IMPRESS. Now that you have a wardrobe you can work with; it’s time to put those pieces to work for you! Here are five go-to looks that will turn heads for all the right reasons. Ladies, you are sophisticated and confident in your age. Own it and show it in how you dress!
34 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
EDGY WOMAN Show your personality through your fashion choices. If you’re feeling a little bit rock and roll, try an oversized trench coat left open over an oversized black top with a fringe, stud or tie detail for added interest. The trench is an easy way to feel comforted by a loose silhouette, without compromising your fashion prowess. Pair this back to a black denim pant with a straight leg and choose a snakeskin bootie or studded sneaker for an extra edge.
LEATHER LOVE Your leather jacket is the easiest way to add a little “oomph” to any outfit. For example, wear it over a polished blouse and wide-legged trousers to take your sophisticated style from pretty, to pretty cool. Leather can be worn head to toe, so finish off the look with a sassy leather boot to match.
DENIM DAY What used to be a fashion faux pas is now an envyworthy casual style. Denim on denim is a look a woman of any age can get behind. Take a dark, straight-legged jean, pair it back to your classic white blouse and throw on your denim jacket in a similar blue hue. This outfit is crisp, cool and chic without being too polished. Dress up the look with a patterned flat or a leather chunky heel and a statement necklace.
CASUAL FRIDAY Try an athleisure inspired look that’s as comfortable as it is fashionable. Layer a soft silk or sheer bomber jacket zipped over a camisole. Pair it with a blue jean or a black pant with stretch that has a minimal pattern on it like a splatter paint or studded detail. Top off the look with a cute slip on flat with a white rubber sole. This outfit is funky, yet practical for running errands or grabbing a casual lunch.
DENIM DAY What used to be a fashion faux pas is now an envy-worthy casual style. Denim on denim is a look a woman of any age can get behind. Take a dark, straight-legged jean, pair it back to your classic white blouse and throw on your denim jacket in a similar blue hue. This outfit is crisp, cool and chic without being too polished. Dress up the look with a patterned flat or a leather chunky heel and a statement necklace. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 35
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INSIDE
38 SUNS SOUNDS: SURVIVOR' S STORY
42 HANNAH AND PHIL ADELMAN
50 BETTER WITH AGE
40 O NLINE SAFETY FOR SENIORS
46 T HE PALAZZO
54 S ENIOR DIRECTORY
48 V OLUNTEERS FOR ISRAEL
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GOLDEN AGE FOR AGING By Deborah Moon
36 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
hile researching stories for our Actively Senior section, I learned a lot of interesting facts about the aging face of America. It’s all good. Seniors today generally enjoy better physical health, financial comfort and respect. According to AARP, 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, and they can look forward to a healthy life ahead. Men turning 65 this year can expect to live, on average, to age 84.3; women, until age 86.6. And 1 in 10 of us will thrive past 95. That’s two or three more decades of adventure that you don’t want to miss. AARP also reports that seniors benefit greatly from exercise. This is backed up by a study at Hebrew University Medical Center and Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, which reported that seniors who do any amount of exercise appear to live longer and have a lower risk of disability. In addition, the benefits associated with exercise were seen not only in individuals who maintained an existing level of physical activity, but also in those who began exercising between ages 70 and 85. The American Council on Exercise notes: “The best way to keep fit is to choose exercises you enjoy. Favorites among some older adults include aqua aerobics, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, line dancing, square dancing, ballroom dancing or simply walking the dog. … Look at your retirement or senior years as an opportunity to do things you have never done before.” Some people are rejecting retirement and continuing to work into their 90s; for some, it is a financial necessity, for others, it is a passion for what they do. According to the U.S. Department of Labor statistics, more than 1.2 million people 75 and older work full- or part-time; by 2019, more than 40% of Americans aged 55-plus will be working. Those statistics come to life in the stories in this section. We feature seniors who are acting and giving to improve the world now and for future generations. We offer resources to help your online security and deals to maintain your budget. Getting old may have its challenges, but it also has many rewards.
Your Care Agency A S S I S T E D L I V I N G C O N S U LTA N T S
WHAT WE DO • Educate you on the options • Locate Assisted Living • Guide you through the process • Arrange for movers • Referrals to other services
HOW WE DO IT • Face-to-face meeting and assessment • Background check each place • Agent comes on tour with you • Assistance with paperwork
Contact: Jonathan Shaw 480-203-5983 JShaw@YourCareAgency.com www.YourCareAgency.com
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A place where comfort and exceptional service come together. Sure as can be, that place is La Siena Senior Living Community. It’s where you’ll find all levels of Assisted Living services, a caring staff, and great neighbors all rolled into one. Which is why some folks call the comfort here “amazing.” Why not come see if you share that same feeling at a complimentary lunch and tour? Please call 602.635.2602 now to schedule.
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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 37
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Sun Sounds of Arizona brings survivor’s story to all By Mala Blomquist
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un Sounds of Arizona (sunsounds.org) will be celebrating its 40th anniversary in November. The service provides audio access 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is available to anyone who cannot read print due to any disability. Their content includes daily newspapers, current magazines and a variety of book titles. “People can receive Sun Sounds through special radios; people can go to our website and stream us, or you can receive us on Alexa devices and iTunes Radio,” says Andrea Pasquale, Sun Sounds of Arizona executive director. “The service and the radios we can supply to people free of charge. It’s for anyone who cannot read or hold print material due to a disability.” These disabilities range from someone who is losing their sight due to macular degeneration or someone who can’t hold print material steady because of Parkinson’s or a stroke, or dyslexic. About 80% of their listeners are age 60 or older. Judy Stern Bartelstone has been a Sun Sounds volunteer for more than 11 years. In September of 2017, she did an interview with Holocaust survivor, Dr. Michael Markson who, with his mother, escaped Lithuania during the Nazi invasion. “Dr. Markson has been a tennis partner of my husband’s for about five years. He’s a very quiet man, and we’ve never spoken more than a few words,” says Judy. “We went to dinner, and his wife asked me what I did, and I mentioned Sun Sounds. She asked me the qualifications, and for some reason, I said well, ‘language is very important,’ and Dr. Markson leaned forward and said, ‘Yes it is, I came from the Ukraine when I was 9 years old.’ ” Judy quickly did the math in her head and then asked him, “I don’t mean to be intrusive, but are you Photo courtesy Karen Shell
38 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
possibly a survivor?” and he replied, “Yes I am.” When Judy heard his story, she asked him if he would be interested in doing an interview with her at Sun Sounds. Judy explained that the setting there was more of an intimate studio and with his wife, Anita’s, encouragement he agreed to the interview. “It’s the only interview he’s ever done,” says Judy. “It’s the only interview he ever will do. I have learned that for some survivors, telling their story is not cathartic.” The story’s heart is the relationship between a mother and her son. “Clara Sauberblatt was very young and beautiful, and her husband had already been killed. They were in the ghetto when she realized what was going on,” says Judy. “She took Michael out in a pushcart filled with vegetables to righteous gentiles at a farm where she had sold produce before. They said that they would take him in and she left him by a hole in the fence. He remembers saying, ‘I hate you; I never want to see you again,’ because he didn’t understand what was happening.” Michael believes he was between the age of 3 and 4. Michael was eventually transferred to an orphanage, and Clara somehow managed to escape from the concentration camp with a friend. She never lost faith that she would get back. She returned to the farm, which was now empty, but someone directed her down the road to the orphanage. “She bought warm rolls at the bakery and brought them to the orphanage, but Michael did not recognize her. All he knew was that a beautiful lady had brought rolls,” says Judy “He said he remembered having a roll in each hand and thinking, ‘I have two rolls.’ She recognized him and told him, ‘I’m your mother.’ To this day, bread or rolls are gourmet food to him.” He was 7 years old when she took him from the orphanage. Clara worked for two more years and then, with help from HIAS and two uncles living in the United States, arrived in New York with Michael aboard the SS Ernie Pyle. “I asked him if he was afraid to travel on this huge ship and he said, ‘Why would I be afraid, I had my mother, I had food (you could ask for seconds) and they played a film, ‘Stars and Stripes,’ so I wasn’t afraid,’ ” says Judy. Judy remembered thinking food, family and film was all he needed. Andrea knew that no one else would ever get to interview Dr. Markson, so she encouraged Judy to share the interview. “I called several different places, including the library at Yale – they do their own interviews – I called HIAS, and then I thought, ‘Why not contact the museum in Washington,’ and I did,” says Judy.
Clockwise from top left: Judy Stern Bartelstone interviews Dr. Michael Markson in the Sun Sounds of Arizona studio. PHOTO BY JASON ROBEY
Arrival of the SS Ernie Pyle with Jewish DPs from Europe at the port of New York. PHOTO COURTESY UNITED STATES HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM,COURTESY OF SALLY GOLDBLUM WASSERMAN
She contacted James Gilmore, archives specialist at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and he requested that she send him a recording of the interview. Several weeks later, James contacted Judy. He told her that they would be giving it a number and cataloging it into their collection. “Michael was delighted – as long as he did not have to do anything (meaning another interview) again,” says Judy. He went on to tell her that he was glad he told his story. “At one point in my interview I said that history is important because we don’t want history to repeat itself,” says Judy, but she admits to being a bit taken aback by Michael’s response, “But it will.” To hear the interview, visit ushmm.org and search “Oral history with Dr. Michael Markson.”
Dr. Michael Markson shows Judy Stern Bartelstone a photograph of himself as a child with his mother, Clara Sauberblatt. PHOTO BY JASON ROBEY
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 39
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Online safety for seniors By Emily Helwig
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he internet has revolutionized the way we do just about everything. From buying groceries to talking to friends and family to finding out the latest news, the World Wide Web puts seemingly infinite possibilities right at our fingertips. However, along with all of the stuff we love about the internet, an abundance of scams and viruses are unfortunately ready to trick you into giving up sensitive information about yourself. That’s why we’ve put together this guide for seniors. We have plenty of tips on how to keep your identity safe and how to avoid getting scammed out of your hard-earned money. COMPUTER SAFETY AND CYBERSECURITY As powerful as our computers are, they’re still susceptible to a whole host of viruses and malware that can slow your computer down and put your personal information at risk. These are some smart ways to protect your computer and yourself from viruses: MAKE STRONG, UNIQUE PASSWORDS Make sure your online passwords are strong and unique. Yes, the name of your beloved pet or your birthday might be easy to remember, but they’ll also be easy for others to figure out. The best practice is to combine eight or more upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols to create a solid password. Use a random password generator to create strong passwords that will be difficult for others to figure out and keep those passwords in a safe place like a private notebook. DO NOT INSTALL UNKNOWN SOFTWARE OR PLUG-INS Don’t install software from websites you don’t know and trust. If you get a pop-up ad offering you free virus protection software or telling you that you need to install a plug-in, these are likely fake notifications designed to get you to download viruses and malware. BE WARY OF ATTACHMENTS Don’t open attachments, respond to emails or click links within emails. This is always true for senders you don’t know. But, sometimes even people you do know can fall prey to viruses and 40 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
malware that automatically send out emails to everyone on their contact list. If someone you know sends you an email with a link or an attachment you weren’t expecting, shoot them a message and ask if they meant to send it. ONLINE PURCHASES These days, you can get almost anything delivered straight to your door with just a few clicks. While that’s something you should take advantage of, make sure you make purchases as safely as possible. Here are a few tips to follow when shopping online: MAKE SURE ANY PURCHASES ARE ON A SECURE WEBSITE Only make purchases or send your personal information on security-enabled websites. You can tell a site is secure if there is an “s” after the “http” in the website’s address. On some browsers you’ll see a lock symbol next to the address. These sites encrypt your data when you send it, making it difficult for others to steal that information. USE A CREDIT CARD WHENEVER POSSIBLE Debit cards are convenient and great for keeping track of how much money you have versus what you have on credit. But, credit cards offer you better security options and will hold you liable for much less money if you do have fraudulent charges made on your account.
between April of 2018 and April of 2019. However, some folks have reported receiving phone calls or emails where they’re asked to provide information to receive their new card or even told that they need to pay to get their new card mailed to them. This is a scam. The Medicare website notes, “Medicare will never call you uninvited and ask you to give us personal or private information to get your new Medicare number and card.” If you receive a phone call or message like this, do not give out your personal information. • Medicare fraud Another common scam is Medicare fraud in which a healthcare provider or someone else uses your Medicare account to bill for services you did not receive. Be sure to check your statements regularly to ensure that your Medicare number hasn’t been compromised.
CHECK CREDIT CARD AND BANK STATEMENTS REGULARLY Some banks will notify you of suspicious activity on your account, but it’s up to you to keep track of your purchases and make certain that no one is using your card to buy stuff online. Make keeping an eye on your statements a regular habit, so you know that your accounts are secure. USE A PRIVATE COMPUTER AND WI-FI NETWORK TO MAKE PURCHASES Only make purchases on your own private Wi-Fi network. Using a public computer or even just a public Wi-Fi network will make it easier for others to steal your information. Create a private, secure, password-protected Wi-Fi account in your home and only use that network or those you trust to make your purchases. MEDICARE AND ONLINE SAFETY Many popular scams targeting the elderly involve Medicare. These are some things to watch out for when it comes to your Medicare coverage: • Exchanging personal info for Medicare cards In April of 2018, Medicare recipients started receiving new Medicare cards. These new cards won’t have your social security number on them like the old ones; that should help reduce identity theft and fraud. The new cards will be sent out automatically, and you should receive yours sometime
• Unsolicited calls offering to enroll you in Medicare Open enrollment periods are an especially popular time for Medicare scams. Each year from October through December you have the opportunity to enroll in or reenroll in your Medicare program. During this time, scammers will often call or email you claiming to be from the Medicare office and asking for your information to enroll you. Again, Medicare will never contact you and ask for your personal information like this, so do not give out your personal information in this scenario. • “Free” appointments, prescriptions or refunds Free check-ups, prescriptions and refunds? If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Some scammers will tell you that due to changes in your insurance, you’re entitled to a refund. They’ll then ask you for your bank account information to direct deposit your refund, but they are just trying to steal your account information. You should never give out your bank account information over the phone or online, especially to someone you don’t know. Others will tell you that you can get access to free medical supplies (especially for diabetics), free doctor’s visits or free prescriptions, but you need to give them your Medicare info to access the freebies. There is never a case where this isn’t a scam, so don’t give out your info. For seniors, it can be especially challenging to know the difference between what’s real and what’s fake. Since online scammers so often target older folks, it’s crucial that you know how to keep yourself and your information safe. If you suspect that you’ve been the victim of fraud or a scam, contact the Federal Trade Commission’s website at consumer. ftc.gov to find out the next steps for keeping yourself and your information safe. This article was edited from an original piece published on dealspotr.com ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 41
Actively SENIOR
Hannah and Phil Adelman: Celebrating 18 years of serving seniors By Leni Reiss
“Hannah, and now Phil, are truly inspirational and help me every step of the way. I am feeling great and jump-starting my life.� ~Marc Adelmann
42 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
Hannah and Phil Adelman and Marc Adelman.
M
arc Adelman and Hannah and Phil Adelman aren’t related – but theirs is a very special relationship. Here’s Marc’s brief backstory: He came to the Valley from Philadelphia with his parents and sister in the late ‘70s. He celebrated his bar mitzvah at Beth El Congregation, attended Central High School, Phoenix College and Arizona State University. Happy to connect with the Jewish community here, he volunteered at the JCC, working with groups from preschoolers to seniors. And then, in 2007, there was the life-threatening accident resulting in his being bedridden and becoming deeply depressed. In retrospect, Marc says the best part of this horrendous episode of his life turned out to be meeting Hannah. At the time, she already had embarked on the challenge of visiting local senior facilities to conduct services, and Marc was residing at one of them. “He finally got up,” Hannah recalls, “when I convinced him that I needed him at services. He was a tough cookie” she adds, “but I didn’t give up on him.” “Hannah influenced me to get out of the dark side of my life,” Marc says. After a while, “a very sensitive social worker” assured him that a move to the Beatitudes, a Phoenix adult community, would be a better fit for him. Indeed, Marc’s attitude and physical condition began to improve. Here’s Hannah and Phil’s story: Married since 1957, they met while in high school in Denver when Hannah invited Phil
Their communal dedication continues to be a work in progress as they keep adding to their 18 years of mind-boggling, calendar-clogging commitment. to a BBG Valentine’s Day dance. It was the start of a longtime life of love and adventure for both of them, including multiple moves during the years when Phil was in the U.S. Air Force. While he was in Vietnam, he had participated in more than 200 rescue missions. The couple settled in the Valley following Phil’s 1981 retirement. A few years later Hannah realized a longtime goal
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 43
Actively SENIOR
of owning and operating a donut shop. Hannah’s Donut Shop had a successful nine-year run under her management. The shop, under new ownership, is thriving at the same location in Phoenix on Cave Creek south of Greenway. Donuts, as it turned out, were not Hannah’s only passion. She and Phil share a dedication and devotion to their Jewish heritage. Affiliating with Temple Beth Israel in Phoenix upon their Valley arrival, Hannah, who had earned a degree in Hebrew and Judaic studies at the University of Utah, was hired to head the Hebrew school. And Phil explains that, “If there wasn’t a Jewish lay leader at whatever base I had been stationed, I would take on the job.” Phil taught at both ASU and DeVry University from the time he left the service until three years ago. His subjects included economics, finance and business. The Adelmans followed now-retired Rabbi B. Charles Herring from TBI to Temple Kol Ami in Scottsdale, where Hannah joined the staff, their grandchildren have celebrated their b’nai mitzvah and Phil served two years as congregation president. They were honored by the congregation a few years ago for all they do. Their communal dedication continues to be a work in progress as they keep adding to their 18 years of mindboggling, calendar-clogging commitment. They conduct Jewish (morning, not Shabbat) services on a rotating basis at nine senior living facilities Valleywide. Each has its own day and time on a monthly schedule, and the experience often is enhanced when Hannah ties in readings for major holidays and
“Fun with Yiddish” sessions. Hannah says that Phil is totally supportive. He provides her transportation, helps to research, prepares and assembles all the written materials – and he even is an adept shofar blower! The Adelmans moved into the Beatitudes about a year ago, after checking out several senior communities. “This is very ecumenical, independent, not for profit, in our price range and an easy commute to Temple Kol Ami,” Phil says. “We saw that we could enjoy maintaining an active and vital lifestyle. And incidentally, we added to the approximately 40 Jewish residents already here.” One of these residents was Marc Adelman. “Hannah sought me out again,” Marc recalls. “She, and now Phil, are truly inspirational and help me every step of the way. I am feeling great and jump-starting my life.” Because the Adelmans have had, and continue to have, such a great impact on Marc’s life, he is enthusiastically spearheading and organizing, along with his mother, Charlotte, an event in their honor to celebrate them and all they have done to benefit and enhance Jewish life for seniors here in the Valley. (See box.) “We really didn’t want this,” says Phil. “We are so grateful to Marc, but we would have been happy just to have bagels and coffee with him. We never sought the limelight – and the truth is that I am going along with this because I am so proud of my wife!”
Architectural Rendering
We’re adding 34 new patio homes to the iconic neighborhood north of Beatitudes Campus. With a vibrant social life, lifelong learning opportunities, and exceptional peace of mind for today and tomorrow, it’s our way of inspiring a whole new view of senior living.
Beatitudes Campus is a not-for-profit life plan community founded by the Church of the Beatitudes. We welcome people of all faiths with open arms. 44 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
“HERE’S TO LIFE”
A tribute honoring Hannah and Phil Adelman WHEN June 3 at 12:30 pm WHERE Orange Tree Resort, 10601 N. 56th St., Scottsdale INFORMATION Tickets include brunch, keynote speaker Mary Jo West and entertainment by Jeff and Anthony Lowy RESERVATIONS Contact 602-544-5129 or madelman980@gmail.com or visit celebration4.ticketspice.com/adelman-tribute ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 45
Actively SENIOR
The Palazzo:
New renovations create senior oasis By Mala Blomquist
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he property at 6250 N. 19th Ave. in Phoenix has been through many management and ownership changes in its history. The property was purchased by Westport Capital Partners and became The Palazzo, A full continuing care community on May 1, 2016. “If you think back to 35 years ago, Central Phoenix was the hub, and this was the Taj Mahal for senior living,” says Mark Aronauer, marketing director for The Palazzo. But when Westport purchased the property, it was in need of some TLC. Westport repaired the leaky roof, repainted and restuccoed walls and did many general repairs for the safety and 46 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
comfort of the residents. Now they are in the middle of a $5 million renovation project. The renovation began with the independent living apartments, renovating them as they become vacant. The apartments range in size from 500 to 930 square feet. “The apartments are beautiful; they all have either balconies, on the second or third floor, or walk-out patios on the first floor,” says Mark. “The renovation added new flooring, new paint, new cabinets and new countertops.” One of the most significant changes was opening up a wall to let more natural light into the one-bedroom apartments.
“When we tour family members (who aren’t the ones looking to move in), when they walk into our models, usually their first comments are ‘Wow! I could live here.’ That is a success story in and of itself,” says Mark. The Palazzo offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The next phase of the renovation will significantly increase their assisted-living space. “We are taking 99 of the independent-living apartments, basically 33 apartments on each floor,” says Mark. “We are getting licensing and renovating that whole section to become a brand new assisted-living area.” This new area will be able to house up to 120 individuals. Each of the three floors will have its own activity space, dining room and living room. “Each floor can be a neighborhood in and of itself,” says Mark. Residents will also have the freedom to roam between floors. Also, couples will be able to live together, even if they both don’t need assisted living. For the budget conscious, that’s helpful because they will not be paying for two separate apartments. “They can both get whatever level of care they need,” says Mark. “If
post office, gift shop, library with internet café, billiards room, movie theater, arts and crafts room, activity room and access to a heated swimming pool. The renovation will include moving walls, changing the flooring and adding a bar. “It’s really going to transform this community into the modern-day hub of senior living,” says Mark. “It’s a real socialization aspect. When you don’t have a set plan, you can come out of your apartment at any time and come down to Main Street and know that you are going to see some friends.” There are also plenty of activities to participate in from exercise to live music. The Jewish Family & Children’s Service Center for Senior Enrichment is located on the property, and they create programs for The Palazzo residents, as well as for seniors in the community looking for socialization and cultural experiences. Just like the physical renovations, they will be changing activities with a focus on their upcoming clientele. “There will always be bingo, Rummikub and trivia. But the baby boomers want walking groups, and cultural talks on different locations throughout the world, and the opportunity to get out and about Photos of a furnished model show the lightfilled, spacious living areas in The Palazzo’s renovated apartments. Below: Renderings of The Palazzo’s new main dining room and activity room.
they both are needing assisted living, then they both will get the personal care and assistance they need. If one is not quite there yet, they can still live with their loved one.” That option is also open to a child/parent living situation or even two friends. Since the apartments offer two bedrooms and two bathrooms, it allows those who might not be able to afford assisted living on their own the option of splitting the rent with a friend or loved one. They can live with whomever they want as long as both are an appropriate fit for the community. “Main Street” is the next major renovation project, scheduled to start this summer with a completion date of year-end or early 2019. Resembling a big, open promenade, Main Street has a
more. They want to be more active,” says Mark. Mark notes that a lot of seniors choose to live in Scottsdale communities because they are newer and more modern. “Now you’ll be able to live in what looks like a Scottsdale community, but it will be more affordable,” says Mark. “The phrase that I tend to use is: it’s going to be Scottsdale beauty at Central Phoenix pricing.” For more information on The Palazzo, call 602-433-6300 or visit palazzohc.com.
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The “young” Volunteers for Israel By Charlotte Lowe Charlotte Lowe on the beach in Israel.
Charlotte Lowe with her coworker Gary Berkovich.
Gary Berkovich, ready for another day of volunteer work.
Opposite page: Charlotte Lowe (without a hat near the middle) and her Sar-El: The National Project for Volunteers for Israel group. 48 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
Y
ou’re never too old to be of service. But in Israel? Too scary? Too far? Too hard? Too retired? Not for me and my 27 fellow Volunteers for Israel. Volunteers for Israel is an American nonprofit organization that works in partnership with Sar-El: The National Project for Volunteers for Israel. Everyone in my international group is 60-somethings or older. But, as is typical, we feel 30 years old inside. For us, the load, heavy or light, is what we still want to do for Israel. We are here to live on an as yet unnamed army base and perform whatever tasks needed to relieve the combat Israeli Defense Forces. We wear the uniform, get up early, attend the flag raising and sing the Israeli National Anthem. Or try, moving our lips to match those of our three young female IDF leaders. Then we do a six-hour day of work punctuated by a Kosher meat lunch and an hour break. My roommate Diana Tishkovskaya, 68, a mechanical engineer and a refugee from the Ukraine to the United States, has a lifting job. I notice she rubs her back with an ointment but never complains. My job, with teammate Gary Berkovich, 83, is unwrapping and then re-wrapping medical scissors. When we argue too much or get bored, he tells me “Russian joke.” It always works. A Jewish refugee and architect, Gary lives in the United States. “Israel helped me escape from the Soviet Union in 1977,” he says. “I got a fake invitation from a fake relative. I was in that circle of refuseniks.” Gary has volunteered seven times and had his longdeferred bar mitzvah at age 80 on an IDF army base. He says our primarily senior citizen group is unusual. He’s been with groups that include many younger volunteers. I asked him if it was hard to have a 19-year-old roommate? “We were like brothers,” he says. Was the work ever too hard? “It didn’t occur to me,” he says. Last year he hurt his back doing heavy lifting. “It went away in two weeks,” he says. He came back again this year. Some volunteers in this group have had recent medical traumas. Although they look so strong and healthy, it’s hard to believe they almost died. Felix Thau, 72, had a condition that involved a brain bleed and spent three weeks in the hospital. He was using a walker, then a cane. It was hard to drive, but he persevered. Tall, fit, with rumpled blondish hair, Felix looks as if he just got back from surfing and might be the older brother with the keys to the car.
He’s a natural born kidder. “But it knocked me,” he says. “Since then I became very aware of my mortality,” Visiting the homeland became important to him. Although VFI s a non-denominational group, he learned of it through his Jewish community. “Last year I took my family to Israel, he says. “Now I’m volunteering. This is the only place in the world I feel our history as Jews and the Holocaust.” Barry Singer, 73, and also from the United States says “I was a tourist twice and then I thought I should give back to Israel. Judaism is a big part of my life.” Jeffry Wells, 51, is Episcopalian and a Registered Nurse. “This experience takes down the walls between us,” he says. Angela Taylor, 65, a Southern Baptist from Macon, GA, came with five others from her church. She is pro-Israel. “I just feel they’re God’s chosen people and I care about their survival,” she says. Angela loves seeing how the army works. “We’re compiling medical materials that ultimately become complete operation tables.” They fit in a backpack “that was heavy, but we helped each other,” she says. When asked if there were any surprises, Angela says, “Well, I hadn’t really known many Jews before, and they were different than I thought. The Israeli soldiers don’t let you ahead of them in line. They don’t hold open the door. They aren’t like our Southern gentlemen.” Some volunteers came alone, others coupled although there were separate male and female designated floors in the barracks. We rotated cleaning chores, washed (in this case by hand because the washer was broken) our clothes, hung them up and didn’t complain about hard beds or repeated menus in the mess hall. We were a hodge-podge of people from all over the world – working for a common cause. It was summer camp in March, finding we got along with others, however isolated we felt in our lives at home. Gary, who shares photographs and posts videos online of his VFI experiences, says of his multiple volunteer experiences in Israel, “Some people stay in touch.” For him, I know that’s an understatement. I’ve made friends with my homeland and my fellow VFI volunteers forever. With trepidation, I made the trip alone, and it wasn’t hard. Having been with my fellow elders, I am stronger. Right now, I’m as young as I feel. For more information on Volunteers for Israel, contact Arizona Regional Manager Mindy Franklin at arizona@vfi-usa.org. Charlotte Lowe, is a freelance writer and author of Stealing the Dog’s Prozac.
VOLUNTEERS FOR ISRAEL BY THE NUMBERS: The VFI in 2017 had almost
650 volunteers from the United States
Female:
48%
Male:
52%
AGES: *17 to 25:
21 %
21.89%
*36 – 45:
2.20%
* 66 -75:
31.97%
*46 – 55:
*75+:
8.63%
*56 – 65:
11% ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 49
Actively SENIOR
I
Some things get better with age
t’s not uncommon these days for a cashier to ask if you qualify for the senior discount – don’t feel old, feel valued. But seniors can find far discounts and deals on many things beyond clothing, movies and dining out. AARP (aarp.org) membership includes discounts on
GYM MEMBERSHIPS Gym memberships or fitness programs are now part of the extra coverage offered by many Medicare supplement plans or Medicare Advantage plans. If you’re a group retiree or part of a Medicare health plan, you may be eligible for a free SilverSneakers membership, which gets you access to more than 13,000 participating fitness facilities around the country as well as special classes and activities. Also, it doesn’t hurt to ask your local gym if they offer a 50 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
entertainment such as movies and event tickets, grocery stores, dining, everyday shopping, car rentals, car repairs, vision exams and glasses, cell phone service, and many other services and products. Following are some other areas where getting older has its rewards.
discount. For more information, or to find a participating gym in your area, visit silversneakers.com.
AUTO SERVICES National chains Jiffy Lube (jiffylube. com) and Midas (midas.com) offer service discounts. The age requirement and the discount varies by location. If you’re shopping locally, it never hurts to ask if your neighborhood auto repair shop offers a senior discount.
NATIONAL PARK ADMISSION For $80, seniors 62 and older can purchase a Senior Pass that’s good for lifetime access to over 2,000 federal recreational sites and national parks. Traveling companions can also enter for free. Depending on the venue, Senior Passes provide the pass owner (only) a discount on expanded amenity fees (such as camping, swimming, boat launching and guided tours).
Please note that the price of the lifetime Senior Pass increased to $80 on August 28, 2017. Also, a new $20 annual Senior Pass became available at the same time. That pass is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Four annual Senior Passes purchased in prior years can be traded in for a lifetime pass. For more information, visit nps.gov.
TRAVEL Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Carnival cruise lines offer discount rates to cruisers 55 and over. Amtrak offers a 15percent discount and Greyhound bus travel offers a 5 percent discount
for those ages 62 and older. Southwest Airlines offers special senior fares for those 65 plus. Road Scholar (roadscholar.org), formerly Elderhostel, has been offering experiential learning opportunities since 1975. Today, Road Scholar offers 5,500 learning adventures, serving more than 100,000 participants annually in every state in the United States, 150 countries and aboard ships on rivers and oceans worldwide. They also have a caregiver grant program to help fund a caregiver to come with you on your trip.
Enhancing Life — ® Advancing Wellness
Home of the Jewish Family & Children’s Services ~ Center for Senior Enrichment
WE OFFER A COMPLETE CONTINUUM OF CARE • Independent Living • Assisted Living • Skilled Nursing (CMS 5-star & HSAG Platinum Level) • Memory Care
www.palazzohc.com 6250 N. 19th Avenue • Phoenix • AZ 85015
602.433.6300
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 51
Actively SENIOR
Evergreen B&B Club (evergreenclub. com) connects members over age 50 with bed and breakfast accommodations. By pooling seldomused guest rooms, members have developed a network of delightful lodgings for considerate travelers — nearly 2,000 mostly in the United States and Canada. Membership for those hosting in North America is $75 for one year from the join date. Membership allows you to travel everywhere, staying in private homes for $20 a day for two guests.
READING Reading is a great pastime. It also comes packed with many benefits including mental stimulation, improved memory, expanded
vocabulary and reduced stress courtesy of having a new adventure from the comfort of your armchair. Many library systems waive overdue fines for seniors. And some bookstores offer senior discounts – just ask your local library or bookstore about their policies. Many options allow seniors to continue to reap these rewards even if their vision has suffered the effects of time. Libraries have collections of large print and audio books. The Library of Congress National Library Service for the Blind offers free audiobooks (as well as braille books). NLS helps hundreds of thousands of readers enjoy the freedom to read their way. Books can be mailed or downloaded instantly. Special readers
are available for free, including the free BARD Mobile app available for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android smartphone or tablet (including Kindle Fire). For more information, visit loc.gov/nls.
EDUCATION Maricopa Community Colleges encourages the pursuit of education as a lifelong endeavor. Students ages 65 and older who are residents of Maricopa County can take advantage of a tuition discount for credit classes at all 10 Maricopa Community Colleges campuses. The discounted rate is 50 percent of the current County Resident tuition, and all credit classes with open seats are eligible. The discount does not apply to clock-hour or non-credit
3509 E. Shea Blvd. Suite 108 Phoenix, AZ 85028
52 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
courses, or to course fees or registration fees. Eligible students need to follow the standard enrollment process by starting with an admissions application, and discounts will be applied at registration. Visit maricopa. edu/community-business/community-educationprograms/lifelong-learning for more information. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at ASU invites you to explore their website and discover the many benefits that the world of lifelong learning offers to anyone age 50 and older. No tests, grades or educational requirements! A $20 per semester membership fee ($10 in the summer semester) entitles you to enroll in university-quality, noncredit short classes. Classes are offered at ASU West and Downtown campus locations, Tempe Connections at the Tempe Public Library, Friendship Village Tempe and Maravilla Scottsdale. For more information, visit lifelonglearning.asu.edu. The OLLI-UA (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arizona) is also a noncredit lifelong learning program open to all adults over the age of 50. They are membership driven and have four locations serving Greater Tucson and Southern Arizona. OLLI-UA is an Affiliate of UA through the Continuing and Professional Education
department. Fees range depending on location. Visit olli. arizona.edu for more information.
TAX BREAKS
Just being a senior won’t get you a tax break in most cases, but there are some tax benefits you should know about. Widows, widowers and totally disabled persons can qualify for a property tax exemption that effectively reduces the assessed value of the real property by up to $3,000 with a corresponding reduction in property tax. You can also apply at your county’s tax assessor office for a property tax freeze or deferral. Under the deferral program, payment of property taxes is not required until the real property is sold or the person dies or the property becomes income producing. Under Proposition 104, which passed in 2000, qualified individuals age 65 and older who meet income and residence criteria are granted a property tax freeze. And if you receive a widow or widower property tax exemption from your county assessor, Arizona also offers a tax exemption on vehicle registration. For more information for those residing in Maricopa county, visit mcassessor.maricopa.gov. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 53
Actively SENIOR
SENIOR DIRECTORY BARTON HOUSE 7001 & 7007 E. Mountain View Road, Scottsdale 480-991-9912 • thebartonhouse.com The Barton House provides high quality, resident-centered memory care for seniors in a warm, home-like setting. Our low caregiver-toresident ratio, on-site nursing and 24/7 “awake” staffing and daily activities program ensure that our residents receive the highest possible level of care and personal attention and remain engaged and active throughout the day.
BEATITUDES CAMPUS 1610 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix 602-428-9206 • beatitudescampus.org At Beatitudes Campus, everything you want and need comes together here. You'll find an open, connected senior living community infused with friendship, laughter and inspiration. Choices abound, bringing opportunities to fuel your passions. You'll find strength and stability, too. Since 1965, our not-for-profit mission to serve has been inspired by Arizona's Church of the Beatitudes.
CONNECTIONS IN HOME CARE 3509 E. Shea Blvd. #108, Phoenix 602-708-8626 • chcaz.org Connections In Home Care puts the heart back into caregiving. Our mission is simple: To connect older Valley adults to kindhearted, reliable caregivers that treat clients like family and help them accomplish successful daily living at home. Our goal is to create longterm relationships between our clients and caregivers for consistency and reliability. The agency provides concierge service 24/7 to our clients led by owners Denise and Eric Kaye.
J. LEVINE AUCTION & APPRAISAL 15323 N. Scottsdale Road #105, Scottsdale 480-496-2212 • jlevines.com J. Levine Auction & Appraisal is a seller’s best friend and buyer’s paradise. We sell everything – classic cars, jewelry, firearms, handbags, bronzes, fine art and just about everything in between. From single items to full estates or businesses, we handle it all!
KIVEL CAMPUS OF CARE 3020 N. 36th St., Phoenix 602-956-3110 kivelcare.org Residents of Kivel Manor enjoy life to the fullest in a thriving community that supports independence and builds self-esteem for
Lovingly Caring for Seniors with Dementia for 19 Years
Full-Service Memory Care • 40 Private Rooms With 1/2 Bath • 24x7 Nurse and Med. Tech. Staffing Low Resident-to-Caregiver Ratio • Nutritious (and delicious) Home-Cooked Meals Daily No-Fail Activities • Program Short-Term & Respite Stays • Beautiful Outdoor Patios & Gardens Convenient North Scottsdale Location • Warm Home-Like Setting • Kosher Meals Available
7001 E. Mountain View Rd. • Scottsdale, AZ 85253 • (480) 991-9912 • www.thebartonhouse.com 54 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
an unmatched quality of life. Kivel offers independent living, assisted living and memory care. Here, social and emotional needs of people of all faiths are met while adhering to our Jewish values to always promote warmth, dignity and respect.
courteous, professional staff, to its prime location close to the Ocotillo Golf Resort, The Village at the Ocotillo offers the retirement lifestyle that’s just right for you. Call today to learn more.
LA SIENA
VALLEY OF THE SUN JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER
909 E. Northern Ave., Phoenix 602-635-2602 • LaSienaSeniorLiving.com
12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480-483-7121 • vosjcc.org/adults
La Siena offers a service-enriched independent and assisted-living lifestyle within a beautiful resort-style setting. Enjoy spacious sized one- or two-bedroom residences with daily social and recreational events as well as restaurant-style dining 12 hours a day. Should the need for care arise, you’ll find peace of mind knowing supportive care services are available to meet your needs.
The Valley of the Sun JCC offers a variety of fitness, educational and social programs for seniors, including art appreciation, discussion groups, special guests, mahjong, bridge, wellness talks, culture and more. Fitness offerings include Parkinson’s PWR!Moves, water aerobics, Pilates, personal training and 70+ group exercise classes each week.
MARAVILLA SCOTTSDALE
YOUR CARE AGENCY
7325 E. Princess Blvd., Scottsdale 480-359-1345 • maravillascottsdaleliving.com
945 E. Playa Del Norte #2004, Tempe 480-203-5983 • yourcareagency.com
Maravilla Scottsdale is a retirement resort in the heart of north Scottsdale, next door to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess resort and the TPC Scottsdale golf course. Offering independent living, assisted living and memory care in one- and two-bedroom residences along with casitas, at Maravilla Scottsdale you can pursue your own brand of happiness, with choices for socializing, or fitness, and fine dining – all with world-class recreation and shopping right outside your door.
Your Care Agency’s philosophy is to find homes for our clients that provide personalized, resident-centered care that meets the individual’s preferences and needs. We take pride in placing our clients in homes that treat all residents with dignity, provide privacy and encourage independence and freedom of choice. There is never any cost to the patient or family for our services.
THE PALAZZO 6250 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix 602-433-6300 • palazzohc.com The Palazzo is a full continuing care community offering independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care. Our residents find a caring, compassionate and devoted staff to accommodate virtually every request. Come by The Palazzo to see our beautifully renovated apartments, Café, extensive activities and programs designed with you in mind.
A Jewish Cemetery that cares about the Jewish Community
THE RETREAT AT DESERT COVE 10031 E. Desert Cove Ave., Scottsdale 602-314-4005 • livingattheretreat.com Located in North Scottsdale, this magnificent assisted living residence provides seniors with the help they need, while upholding their dignity and independence, in a safe, compassionate, loving and peaceful environment. Each resident has a spacious private bedroom with en-suite bath facilities. The Retreat strives to exceed the highest expectations of our residents and their families.
THE VILLAGE AT OCOTILLO 990 W. Ocotillo Road, Chandler 480-558-0246 • TheVillageatOcotillo.com Ideally located in Chandler’s popular master-planned community of Ocotillo, our award-winning community features 120 distinctively designed independent and assisted-living residences. From the
• Jewish
Owned and Operated • Sidewalks at Every Grave • Caring and Professional Staff • Intermarried Families Welcome
(480) 585-6060 24210 N. 68th Street • Phoenix (off Pinnacle Peak Rd.)
mtsinaicemetery.com ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 55
KIDS CALENDAR
Ongoing:
CLUB J AT THE VALLEY OF THE SUN JCC Provides after-school programming ranging from sports to cooking and crafts to Israeli culture and more for those in K-8. Transportation from nearby schools available. Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center, 12701 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-634-4949 or youth@vosjcc.org, vosjcc. org.
J CARE AT THE EAST VALLEY JCC Parent drop-off or bus transportation from area schools for grades K-7. Includes homework club, cooking, Israeli culture, dance, sports, gymnastics and more. Early pick-ups from Kyrene schools on Wednesday early dismissals. East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N Alma School Road, Chandler. Contact Jeff at 480-897-0588 or hastj@evjcc.org, evjcc.org.
J-CARE AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM AT THE TUCSON JCC Includes a variety of activities, Homework Hangout program (help from education specialists), arts, sports or teens can hang in the Youth Lounge. Bus transportation from schools available for K-12. Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E River Road, Tucson. Contact Corey at 520-2993000 ext. 256 or ccravens@tucsonjcc.org.
May 3
LAG B’OMER BBQ PARTY & CONCERT at Congregation Anshei Israel, 5550 E 5th St., Tucson from 6 to 8 pm. To celebrate Lag B’Omer, join us for a BBQ dinner, board games and a concert featuring CAI’s Adult Choir directed by Cantorial Soloist Nichole Chorny. $10 per person or $25 per family (two adults & up to 4 children). RSVP to Michelle at 520745-5550 or receptionist@caiaz.org.
May 4
BABIES ROCK Shabbat at Congregation Chaverim, 5901 E. Second St., Tucson at 6 pm. Come sing, pray, sway and rock with your baby and Rabbi Stephanie Aaron. Free. For more information, contact 520-320-1015 or visit chaverim.net. TOT SHABBAT, service 5:45 pm; dinner 6:15 pm at Congregation Anshei Israel, 5550 E 5th St., Tucson. Special Kabbalat Shabbat Service for young families to welcome the Sabbath with stories and songs, followed by kid-friendly Shabbat dinner. $25 per family (2 adults & up to 4 children). Additional adults $10 per person. RSVP to Kim, 520-745-5550 ext. 224 or edasst@caiaz.org.
May 4, 11, 18 & 25
MOMMY & ME ROCK SHABBAT at Temple Kol Ami Early Childhood Center, 15030 N 64th St., Scottsdale from 9 to 10:30 am. Teacher-led class for moms and their children ages infant to 2 years.
56 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
Moms connect and share experiences while their children learn and grow. Classes are just $5 per class (or $35 for a 10-class pass) for Temple Kol Ami members. Non-members pay $10 per class (or $75 for a 10- class pass). For registration or information, contact 480-951-5825 or tkaecc@ templekolami.org.
May 5
LAG B’OMER PICNIC at Youngerman’s Stonegate Ranch, 8220 E. Woodland Road, Tucson from 5 to 7:30 pm. Celebrate the 19th annual Wandering Jews, Babies and Bagels, Lag B’Omer Picnic and Bonfire. Features hayrides, stargazing, Havdalah, songs with Rabbi Batsheva Appel and more. For more information, contact 520-327-4501 or tfrazier@ tetucson.org.
SUMMER CELEBRATION KIDS NIGHT OUT at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 6 to 10 pm. Kids enjoy two pools and giant splash pad to welcome in summer. A giant inflatable slide, snacks and Shemesh Summer Camp sampler activities round out the fun. Movie: “Camp Rock.” Members: $10; Guests: $20. Price per child. Information and registration: 480.634.4949 or youth@vosjcc.org.
May 5, 12, 19 & 26
CAMP SHABBAT for ages 6-10 years at Congregation Bet Shalom, 3881 E. River Road, Tucson from 11 am to 1 pm. A wonderful, fun, learning experience with Israeli teens. Free. No RSVP required. For more information, call 520-577-1171 or rabbi@cbsaz.org.
May 11
SHABBAT ROCKS! Family Shabbat Dinner at Temple Emanu-El, 225 N. Country Club Road, Tucson from 5:30 to 7:15 pm. Shabbat dinner followed by an energetic and musical service for the whole family. RSVP for the kosher chicken dinner and sides (vegetarian option available). Members: $12; nonmembers: $14, ages 12 and under free. More for information, contact 520-327-4501 or visit tetucson.org.
May 18
FAMILY SHABBAT EXPERIENCE SERVICE & DINNER, service 5:45 pm; dinner 7 pm at Congregation Anshei Israel, 5550 E 5th St., Tucson. With our families, we welcome Shabbat with rhythm, movement, ruach and song; and tonight,we will say farewell to our Shinshinim (young Israelis doing a year of service here in Tucson on behalf of Israel through the Jewish Federation), Chen Denachi and Tamir Shecory. RSVP needed by May 14. For more information, visit caiaz.org.
FAMILY TIME
Nerf gun violence
By Debra Rich Gettleman
“Mom, he’s got a gun!” I hear my 17-year-old son, Levi, scream from the den where he’s doing his homework. I race to him faster than a cheetah pursuing a wildebeest. When I get to the den, Levi’s sitting on the couch, his computer open on his lap, the television blasting. My 14-year-old son, Joe, (not his real name because he refuses to allow me to mention him in anything I write), is calmly sauntering past, his hand in the pocket of his basketball shorts. “What are you talking about?” I scream at Levi for practically causing my untimely demise. “Why would you yell something like that?” “Because it’s true, mother,” he insists in the condescending tone that only a snarky teenager possesses. “It’s in his pocket.” I look at Joe as he pulls a 4-inch neon orange Nerf gun out of his pocket. “What, this?” Joe innocently inquires. “Levi, that is a Nerf gun. Did he shoot you with it?” I ask trying to find some hint of reasonable concern. “Well, no,” Levi conceded. “But that’s beside the point. It is still a gun, mother. And we do not play with guns in this house.” “Um, last I checked,” I say with my own intimation of snottiness, “I was the parent, and I make the rules. But thanks so much for your input.” I begin to walk away in a huff. “Mom,” Levi yells, “This is a really serious issue. Please do not walk away.” I immediately turn back and sit down on the couch next to him. “Levi,” I ask, “What is the serious issue?” “Gun violence!” He asserts aggressively. “Teenagers are shooting up schools because they don’t understand the distinction between play guns and real guns. How do you know Joe isn’t stockpiling weapons under his bed?” “Well, first of all, he sleeps in a loft. Secondly, I’m 100% certain Joe knows the difference between a Nerf gun and an AK-47.” I turn to Joe who is staring at his brother in complete incredulity. “Joe,” I ask, “What is the difference between the Nerf gun in your pocket and a real gun?” “This is idiotic,” Joe too has the air of an annoyed adolescent. “Um…one is a toy, and the other is a weapon that can actually kill people.” “My work here is done,” I quip and turn on my heels. “No!” Levi insists. “I am uncomfortable with him having a gun in this house. I do not feel safe here.” “You don’t feel safe here?” I ask. “No, I do not,” Levi insists. “You and he are part of the problem in this country. You are perpetuating the cycle of gun violence by treating this issue so flippantly. I cannot live in a house where gun violence is condoned.” Now I’m seriously irked. “OK,” I counter, “First of all, no one in this house condones gun violence. We do not own guns. We are not plotting to form a militia and take over the government. We don’t hunt. But I’m totally comfortable with your brother
having a Nerf gun, Foam Blaster, or even a Super Soaker. And even though I always prohibited you both from playing with toy guns as toddlers, you both used wooden blocks, LEGOs, and even plastic bananas as pretend guns from time to time.” I applaud the sincere commitment these young people have made to fix what is clearly broken in our society. Their passionate voices need to be heard. But I worry that blurring the line between reasonable judgment, and hyperbolic rhetoric will undermine the critical message they are trying to send. I told Joe that he could use his Nerf gun in the privacy of his own room, but that he needed to keep it out of any common areas since his brother was so uncomfortable with it. My compromise infuriated both boys for its perceived insufficiency and unfairness. But that’s my job as a mom, to always be the most unpopular person in the room. And just so you know, I do my job well. Debra Rich Gettleman is a mother, blogger, actor and playwright. For more of her work, visit unmotherlyinsights.com
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ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 57
Making memories
with mom
Masada and Ruth Siegel show off their arrangements at the Arizona Flower Market.
By Masada Siegel
At a party recently, a high school friend approached my husband and cheekily said, “You do realize your wife Masada is going to turn into her Jewish mother. Are you prepared for that?” My husband, responded, “I should be so lucky.” My friend’s grin turned to shock. I laughed, knowing why my husband’s greatest wish is for me to turn into my mother. 58 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
My mom, Ruth Siegel, is organized, thoughtful, kind and a fabulous cook – who makes everything from scratch. She’s well-educated, the perfect hostess, makes people feel at ease, a great listener, advisor, diplomat and one of the most well-read people I have ever met. Mother’s Day is an opportunity to enact the commandment to honor your mother and father. Here are a few creative ideas on how to treat the wonderful person in your life who makes every day brighter and better.
Flower arranging class
Mom and I attended a flower arranging class at the Arizona Flower Market (azflowermarket.com/events) with about 20 other students. We were greeted with an enormous pile of flowers. Our instructor Brian Vetter, an aficionado, was fantastic. Everyone was given the same flowers; yet each bouquet came out so different. Husbands attended with their wives, as did mother’s and daughters, and lots of ladies with their friends. The Arizona Flower Market hosts classes monthly, each costing $75. They provide the flowers and instructions, and you bring home a beautiful bouquet. Alternatively, try a do-it-yourself flower arranging class at home. A wedding website (bloominous.com), has an option called “Chef ’s Choice,” where for $39 they will send you a lovely assortment of flowers that are color coordinated and instructions on how to make a bouquet. They deliver the flowers Friday mornings, so your creation can become a Shabbat centerpiece, and as the flowers continue to open they are sure to look spectacular on Mother’s Day.
Something sweet
Making a sweet treat is half the fun of eating it. Experimenting in the kitchen with my mom is always a delight. We used the Yonanas machine (yonanas.com) to make a healthy, dairy-free dessert. The machine transforms frozen fruit into what tastes like ice cream – without all the calories. The recipe book is filled with ideas, but we found it fun to experiment with the frozen bananas, adding a little chocolate and cinnamon.
Get to know yourself and your mom better
Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to get to know your mom better, and a DNA test is a great way to learn about generations of women in your family. We ordered the “Living DNA” test (livingdna.com). My Mom swabbed the inside of her mouth, and in a few weeks, we learned some of our ancestors were Dutch, Finnish and Swedish! Living DNA does a comprehensive
analysis of your DNA. It provided information on our ancestry throughout human history, as well as percentages of our ethnic backgrounds from 80 global regions. They also offer an informative full-color coffee table book of your Living DNA results. It is an artistic way to preserve your family history for future generations.
Spa day
A personal favorite is to treat my mom to a relaxing spa day. The newly renovated Phoenician Spa (thephoenician. com/phoenicianspa) is dreamy. The three-story facility has a rooftop pool, dry bar, full-service nail salon, fabulous gym and movement studio. Every time we have indulged, we enjoyed fantastic treatments. Now there are a plethora of new choices such as the “The Sleep Ritual Massage.” A therapist releases tense muscles, calms your mind and helps to promote better sleep They also include a DreamKit to take home. They also have the “Harmonic Bowl Healing” treatment where a therapist will use hand-made Himalayan singing bowls on and around the body to create healing vibrations. Another option is to celebrate mom with a do-ityourself spa day. I set the mood by lighting candles, and we relax and giggle in comfortable chairs while we give one another facials. The renowned East Coast spa owner David J. Witchell (davidjwitchell.com) has created his own all-natural line of products, which are delightful. For a do-it-yourself facial, try the Matcha Wash with Grit for cleansing. Best to use it with a towel or natural sea sponge, then apply the Shaman oil blend which firms and illuminates the tone and texture of the skin and then follow up with the Time Traveler skin soufflé which brightens, hydrates and protects your skin. To complete the spa experience, steam up the bathroom, run a warm bath and give her Costa D’Oro body soaps (siegebrands.com/naturalsoaps); which are luxurious, natural, made in Arizona and leave your body feeling a decade younger. I especially like the Himalayan salt scrub with activated charcoal, the lemongrass and rosemary and the gardenia-scented soaps. The best part of a do-it-yourself spa day is that you can continue the celebration, and use the products again. Whatever you decide, enjoy, rejoice and have fun! Happy Mother’s Day. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 59
ISRAEL
Dairy company doesn’t let Israelis forget Shavuot By Teddy Weinberger
As one might expect of the Jewish state, the holy days of the Jewish religion are national holidays. A good example is the holiday of Shavuot, which this year begins on Saturday night, May 19. While it is possible to go about one’s business in the diaspora without even realizing that Shavuot has come and gone, this could never happen in Israel. For one thing, on the day of the holiday all government offices, banks, businesses and schools are closed. In addition, several weeks before the holiday, Tnuva, Israel’s huge food company (which almost has a monopoly on milk and milk products), takes great care to tell every person in the 60 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
State of Israel: “Shavuot Tnuva – An Israeli Celebration.” The Tnuva juggernaut for Shavuot is quite impressive. In the weeks before the holiday, one cannot walk by a dairy case anywhere in Israel without realizing that Shavuot is approaching and that Tnuva is ready to help you celebrate. There are sales on dairy products, introductory offers for new product lines and a tempting array of cheesecakes – including a “cheesecake kit for easy and fast preparation” of the holiday’s signature dessert. Of course, all this “bounty” (the English word for “Tnuva”) is accompanied by a huge advertising blitz in newspapers, on television and radio, on billboards and in a “magazine for Shavuot” that is inserted into your newspaper about a week before the holiday. The cover of this glossy, full-color
magazine proclaims: “Tnuva is happy to present you with a complete collection of recipes, tips, advice and stories for the Shavuot holiday.” In the magazine, Tnuva speaks of Shavuot as “the most Israeli of holidays” because of the old kibbutz tradition of displaying the plentiful yields (crops and livestock) on this day. In the center of the magazine is a beautiful photograph of various fruits and assorted cheeses with the words (obviously meant to sound like a biblical injunction): “On the holiday of Shavuot, you shall make for yourselves a Tnuva holiday table.” Tnuva is thus largely responsible for making sure that the Israeli public knows well in advance of the approaching Shavuot holiday. And since the company is willing to expend a large amount of capital on its Shavuot campaign, it would seem that a large segment of Israel celebrates this holiday – as far as Tnuva is concerned. This is not to say that the holiday is a deep religious experience for most Israelis. For the secular portion of the population, the holiday is an opportunity for a vacation at the beach. This leads to an interesting question, given the Jewish legal principle that says that a person who is
ignorant of a law is punished less severely than someone who knows the law but who consciously violates it: Should Tnuva be held responsible for the conscious violation of religious tradition? While from a legal perspective the secular Jewish obliviousness in the diaspora regarding Shavuot may have its advantages, in terms of Jewish culture and Jewish peoplehood, I believe that the Israeli situation is much to be preferred. As long as the traditions of the Jewish people are still current in Israel’s vocabulary, one can hope for a reconstruction or a transvaluation of these traditions to suit a broad spectrum of Israeli society. Even if a person’s celebration of Shavuot consists of eating more dairy products than usual around this time of year, that person is exercising some degree of ethnic and national responsibility – which I think is all to the good. So buy your (preferably Tnuva) dairy products and have a Happy Shavuot. Teddy Weinberger, Ph.D., writes from Givat Ze’ev, a suburb of Jerusalem just over the Green Line. He and his wife, Sarah Jane Ross, made aliyah in 1997 with their five children. Teddy is director of development for Meaningful, a company that works with Israeli nonprofit organizations.
Federation matters to me because when my family came to America, we had nothing and we didn’t speak the language. Federation helped us to settle in and supported us every step of the way so I could become the person I am today.
YOUR GIFT MATTERS.
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480.481.7031 | jewishphoenix.org/donate ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 61
ISRAEL
A golden path takes visitors on an interactive walking route through the history of Tel Aviv. Photo by Ricky Rachman
A walk down Tel Aviv’s new Independence Trail By Rebecca Stadlen Amir
While Tel Aviv is known around the world for its technology startups, restaurants and nightlife, art galleries and architecture, its history is often overlooked. A new interactive tourist site aims to change that, focusing on two of the most crucial events in the story of modern Israel: the birth of Tel Aviv in 1909 and the birth of Israel itself in 1948. The one-kilometer Independence Trail takes visitors past 10 heritage sites connected by a golden path that snakes through the streets of Tel Aviv. It opened on April 18, the eve of Israel’s Independence Day, free of charge to 62 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
the public. The walking trail, a joint project by the Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage, required several months of infrastructure work including the installation of a lighting system for nighttime visitors. “Tel Aviv, the First Hebrew City, is named after the Hebrew title of Theodor Herzl’s book Altneuland, outlining Herzl’s vision for a Jewish state in the Land of Israel. In accordance with its name, the history of Tel Aviv embodies as a microcosm of the history of Zionism and the young State of Israel,” said Minister of Heritage and Jerusalem Ze’ev Elkin.
The one-kilometer Independence Trail takes visitors past 10 heritage sites connected by a golden path that snakes through the streets of Tel Aviv. “The new attraction will allow everyone, Israelis and tourists, to dive into the fascinating chapters of the story of the establishment of the State of Israel, right at the center of Tel Aviv.” Inspired by the Freedom Trail in Boston, which takes visitors through the history of the American Revolution, the Independence Trail uses a unique mobile app to educate visitors about each of Tel Aviv’s heritage sites. At each of the 10 stops, information about the location will appear on the visitor’s device, explaining its historical context and background. Visitors can also guide themselves along the trail using a map available in eight languages: Hebrew, English, French, Spanish, German, Arabic, Chinese and Russian. The trail begins at the intersection of tree-lined Rothschild Boulevard and Herzl Street, home to Tel Aviv’s first kiosk. Established in 1910, the location quickly became a central meeting place for locals. During the 1920s, around 100 kiosks operated in the city under the association of the kiosk and soft-drink store owners. Today, the original kiosk serves as an espresso bar, centrally located among Tel Aviv’s most popular bars and restaurants. The second stop takes visitors to the Nahum Gutman Fountain, decorated with mosaics that tell the history of Jaffa – the ancient port city from which Tel Aviv was
born. The mosaic was created by Israeli artist Nachum Gutman, who grew up in Tel Aviv along with the new city, and reflected the simplicity of the early days of the first Hebrew city. Gutman helped pioneer a distinctly Israeli style of art and was awarded the Israel Prize in 1978. The third stop on the trail is the home of Akiva Aryeh Weiss, founder of the city’s first neighborhood, Ahuzat Bayit, which later evolved into modern-day Tel Aviv. As president of the then newly established Building Society, Weiss presided over the 1909 lottery in which 66 Jewish families drew numbers written on seashells to determine the allocation of lots in the future city of Tel Aviv. From there, the trail continues to the site where the first Hebrew-speaking high school, the Herzliya Hebrew Gymnasium, once stood. Located on Herzl Street, the building was a major Tel Aviv landmark until 1962, when the site was demolished for the construction of the Shalom Meir Tower. Today, the Shalom Tower is home to a visitors center about the history of Tel Aviv, which is free to the public on weekdays. Next, visitors arrive at the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street, the spiritual and religious center of the first Hebrew city. The building features a huge dome, elaborate lighting fixtures and stained glass windows. The nearby Hagana Museum is the sixth stop on the trail, located in the former home of Eliyahu Golomb, the founder of the pre-state Jewish military force that later evolved into the Israel Defense Force. From 1930 to 1945, the building was used as Hagana’s secret headquarters. The museum will offer free public entry during 2018, in honor of Israel’s 70th anniversary. The next stop is the Bank of Israel Visitors Center. The center presents the history of the financial system in Israel and displays an extensive exhibition of banknotes and coins issued throughout pre-state days to the present. The center is also offering free public entry to mark Israel’s 70th anniversary. The trail then heads to the Tel Aviv Founders Monument on Rothschild Boulevard, dedicated to the men and women who established Tel Aviv in the first half of the 19th century. The trail continues at the statue of Meir Dizengoff, Tel Aviv’s first mayor. He was known for riding his horse from his home to City Hall, then located on Bialik Street. The statue was created by artist David Zondolovitz and unveiled in front of Dizengoff ’s historic residence, Rothschild Boulevard 16, in 2009. The Independence Trail ends across the street at Independence Hall, where on May 14, 1948, David BenGurion read aloud the Declaration of Independence as Israel was declared an independent Jewish state. Article courtesy of Israel21c. ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 63
TRAVEL
Shanghai’s dramatic skyline. PHOTO BY DAN FELLNER
A tour of Jewish Shanghai By Dan Fellner
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S
hanghai is China’s largest city with 23 million people. It features one of the most dazzling skylines in the world, a booming economy and a compelling mixture of Eastern and Western cultures. But not many people are aware that Shanghai also offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history of one of the most unique Jewish communities in the Far East. As a city that accepted about 20,000 Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust in Europe, Shanghai became known at the time as a “Noah’s Ark” for Jews who had no other place to go. With only 24 hours to explore the city at the conclusion of a 14-day Asian cruise on the Holland America ship Volendam, I opted to take a half-day “Tour of Jewish Shanghai.” It was led by Dvir Bar-Gal, an Israeli-born journalist who has lived in Shanghai for the past 17 years. With a style that was part history professor, part stand-up comedian, Dvir taught our group of 15 tourists – mostly Americans – all about Shanghai’s Jewish past and took us to the sites that helped bring to life a Jewish community that once thrived here. It was just a 20-minute walk from where the Volendam was docked to join the tour. Appropriately, we met at the Fairmont Peace Hotel, which was built by Sephardic Jews from Bagdad, who were part of the first wave of Jewish immigrants to Shanghai in the late 19th century. This group included two prominent families – the Sassoons and Kadoories. “People came here with nothing and created an economic empire in the Far East,” notes Dvir about the Baghdadi immigrants. The second wave of Jews arrived in the 1920s, Ashkenazim fleeing pogroms and revolutions in Russia.
From the Fairmont, our group walked one block to The Bund, Shanghai’s pedestrian riverfront with a spectacular view across the Huangpu River to the city’s enormous skyscrapers. It was at The Bund where Dvir told us about the third – and most famous – wave of Jewish immigrants. From 1933 to 1941, Shanghai accepted about 20,000 Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust. Most came from Germany and Austria, which had stripped Jews of their citizenship and encouraged exile before turning genocidal. Outside of the Dominican Republic, Shanghai was the only place that allowed Jews to enter as it did not require a visa. In fact, by 1939 more European Jews had taken refuge in Shanghai than in any other city in the world. Jewish life in Shanghai prospered during the 1930s. At one time, there were six working synagogues and about 10 Jewish newspapers. Jews lived harmoniously with the Chinese in a section of town called the Hongkou District, which was dubbed “Little Vienna” because so many Austrian Jews lived there. During World War II, the Japanese occupied Shanghai, which ended the flow of foreign funds to the Jewish refugees, who were becoming increasingly impoverished. The Japanese also imposed restrictions on where Jews could live, creating a “Designated Area for Stateless Refugees,” better known as the Shanghai Ghetto. Conditions in the ghetto were difficult, but a vast majority of Shanghai’s Jews survived the Holocaust. Most emigrated to Israel, the United States, Australia and Hong Kong after the Communists took control of the government in 1949. Dvir drove us by van to the city’s Hongkou District where we walked through narrow streets and parks lined with blooming cherry-blossom trees to explore the traces of what once had been bustling Jewish life in the area. The highlight was a visit to the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum on Changyang Road, which contains exhibits, monuments and an exhibition hall in which more than 140 photos are displayed with a multi-screen projection system. Dvir served as an adviser to the Chinese government when it opened the museum in 2007. The museum also houses the former Ohel Moshe Synagogue, built by Russian Jews in the 1920s. It later became the hub of Jewish life when the community was ghettoized in the 1940s. After the war, the synagogue was confiscated by the Communists and converted into a psychiatric hospital. It reopened in the 1990s and
was later restored to its original architectural style in 2007. The building has been inscribed on the list of architectural heritage treasures of Shanghai. There are currently no functioning stand-alone synagogues, so Shanghai’s current population of about 4,000 Jews have a choice of praying at one of three Chabad branches or in private venues. Dvir says about 3,000 tourists take his tour every year, a majority of whom are Americans. He adds that before their arrival, many had no idea about the city’s rich and inspiring Jewish history. “Some people have some knowledge about Jewish life here, but it is vague,” he says. “It comes to life when they take this tour.” For information about booking a Jewish tour on a trip to Shanghai, email shanghaijews@hotmail.com. The cost for a half-day tour is about $70. Dan Fellner of Chandler is a faculty associate at Arizona State University and freelance travel writer specializing in Jewish destinations. His website is global-travel-info.com
Blooming cherry blossoms in the Hongkou District of Shanghai. Dvir Bar-Gal leads a tour in the sanctuary of the former Ohel Moshe Synagogue. Entrance to the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum. PHOTOS BY DAN FELLNER
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TO LIFE
Running to catch up with myself By Amy Hirshberg Lederman
I’ve been running most of my life to catch up with myself. Whether it’s answering emails or paying bills, putting away laundry or finishing a story, I race through the day picking up the remains of all I haven’t done. This is not a habit I’ve developed as an adult; it’s a tendency I’ve had since I was in second grade when, on a crisp autumn afternoon as I was walking home from school, I dropped my black composition notebook on the sidewalk. I bent down, picked up my notebook and brushed it off, the entire process taking no more than a few seconds. Then, as if propelled by an invisible force, I ran "In the past three years what I have ahead, maybe ten or fifteen steps, to learned is simply this: The human the place where I imagined I should have been if I hadn’t dropped my capacity to accept, adjust and book. It was a purely spontaneous, ultimately respond to the utterly unpremeditated response to the fact that I had stopped moving forward. new life canvas that loss creates can Without thinking, I ran to catch up happen only with the passage of with myself. This image, while somewhat time. And for each person, that time comical, has given me a great deal period will be as unique and different of pause in the past three years since my husband died. Because since that as the loss itself." day, when so much of what I knew and understood to be the purpose of my life changed, I have struggled to recover my physical and emotional equilibrium, my ability to sleep through the night and my impetus to keep moving forward. In most religious traditions, there are definitive periods of time for mourning that honor and acknowledge healing is a process that takes time. Seven days, thirty days, eleven months, a year, all mark periods of Jewish mourning that respect the idea that we need to set aside time to be alone. Time to privately as well as publicly mourn, before reentering a world which is forever changed because of the loss of someone we knew or loved.
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In the past three years what I have learned is simply this: The human capacity to accept, adjust and ultimately respond to the utterly new life canvas that loss creates can happen only with the passage of time. And for each person, that time period will be as unique and different as the loss itself. George Eliot said it beautifully when she wrote: “No story is the same to us after a lapse of time; or rather, we who read it are no longer the same interpreters.” Life is an exercise in constant adaptation and change. Health, finances, career and family situations will always be in constant states of flux. When we are young, we often feel that life hasn’t really begun yet, that we are waiting for it all to happen next week, next job or next relationship. In our 20's, 30's and 40's, it often feels that we have an unlimited amount of time to figure it all out – what we want to do, who we want to be with, how we want to live. But as we enter our 50's and 60's, and walk into our 70's and beyond, we often realize just how precious and precarious time and life really is. And we look at what we have and realize that while the script might vary radically from the one we thought we would have, it is up to us to keep moving forward despite the challenges, disappointments and losses we have encountered. The silver lining that exists within every challenge or changed circumstance is that they can ultimately lead the way to new and unanticipated opportunities to live, experience and “be.” And while we are naturally resistant to change and change itself may become more difficult to manage or integrate as we age, adapting to and advancing through our changes may be the most essential skill and mindset that we can employ to keep vital, relevant and open to growing and learning in the golden years of our lives. I no longer wish to run and catch up with the 8-yearold who picked up her notebook so many years ago. That girl has grown into a woman who is now looking ahead to see what may present itself on the horizon of a life yet lived. And in doing so, I am reminded of the T.S. Eliot quote: “And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from.” Amy Hirshberg Lederman has written more than 300 columns and essays that have been published nationwide. amyhirshberglederman. com
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An evening with Annabelle Gurwitch
On Thursday, May 3, NowGen and Women’s Philanthropy, in partnership with the Jewish Book Council will present an Evening with Annabelle Gurwitch. Annabelle Gurwitch is an actress, activist and New York Times bestselling author. Her recent collection of essays on family Wherever You Go, There They Are, Stories about My Family You Might Relate To was called “a vivacious, madcap memoir” by O Magazine. Her book I See You Made an Effort was a New York Times bestseller and Thurber Prize for American Humor finalist. Her book You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up (co-authored with Jeff Kahn) is also a play which has toured in more than 30 cities to date. A veteran of theatre, Annabelle has performed with The Moth Mainstage, New York Comedy Festival, Joe's Pub, Caroline's on Broadway, 92ndSt Y, and performing arts centers around the country. Her performance in the title role of “Joe and Betty” Off-Broadway and in Los Angeles earned her a place in Top Ten Performances of the Year in The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times. She has also appeared in numerous television shows and movies including “Better Things,” “Seinfeld,” “Boston 68 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
Legal,” “Dexter,” “The Shaggy Dog,” “Daddy Day Care,” and “Melvin Goes to Dinner.” Annabelle gained a loyal following during her long stint co-hosting “Dinner & a Movie” on TBS and years as a regular commentator on NPR. She was also the news anchor on HBO’s satirical “Not Necessarily the News” and hosted the sustainability series “WA$TED” on the Planet Green Network. Annabelle is a Jewish mother, a reluctant atheist and an ardent environmentalist. She is empty-nesting in Los Angeles.
An Evening with Annabelle Gurwitch
Where: Congregation Or Tzion Social Hall, 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale When: Thursday, May 3; 7 pm dessert reception (dietary laws observed), 7:30 pm program followed by book sale and signing Tickets: $18 per person. There is no solicitation of funds. Information: jewishphoenix.org
FEDERATION NOTES Shavuot deserves our respect
Ask for Gary Kravetz, Fleet Director
By Marty Haberer
In the words of Rodney Dangerfield, Shavuot, “Can’t get no respect.” Even Rodney likely knew little about the holiday. How can Shavuot compete with hamantaschen on Purim, gelt and jelly doughnuts on Chanukah, matzah on Passover or the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah? Shavuot has no dire consequences like Yom Kippur. And yet, poor old Shavuot is possibly considered the holiest of our holidays. Why? Shavuot is the celebration of the giving of the Torah to the Jewish people. It is the Jewish people’s acceptance of the Torah that sealed our covenant with G-d as His chosen people. It was the Torah that caused other nations to refer to us as “the children of the book” and the “light unto nations.” Many observant Jews stay awake all night the evening of Shavuot and study Torah. I even did so as a Yeshiva High School student, and it was a very memorable experience for me. Even in our promised land of Israel, which just celebrated its 70th anniversary as a modern state, Shavuot has seen a renaissance. It has become a day rich in Jewish cultural and arts activities throughout the country. Like so many things in Judaism, Shavuot continues to evolve and continues to be a vital holy day that defines who we are as the Jewish people.
Chag Sameach!
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THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK
David Ira Goldstein returns to Arizona Theatre Company this month to direct “The Diary of Anne Frank.” The play will be held through May 12 at the Temple of Music and Art at 330 S. Scott Ave. in Tucson and from May 17 to June 3 at the Herberger Theater Center at 222 E. Monroe St. in Phoenix. Finding hope in the darkest corners. One of the most powerful stories of the 20th century, "The Diary of Anne Frank" captures the claustrophobic realities of eight people hiding from the Nazis in a concealed storage attic in war-torn Amsterdam. Anne’s daily existence – her fears, her hopes, her laughter, her grief, and her family’s desperate attempt to preserve humanity in an inhumane world – drive this transcendently powerful true-life tale. Incorporating newly ANNA LENTZ AS ANNE FRANK
PREVIEWS Tucson. Through his performance, Samuel explores living and loving in a time of ongoing and increasing surveillance, control and oppression. He lived and worked in Tucson for almost 20 years, and now teaches poetry at Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, MA. The event is free. For more information, visit jewishhistorymuseum.org. SAM ACE
GOLFING FOR GOOD
The 2018 Temple Kol Ami Charity Gold Tournament held on May 7 at Ancala Country Club at 11700 E. Via Linda in Scottsdale is taking a swing at ending hunger in the Valley. A large portion of the proceeds benefit The Paradise Valley Food Bank Backpack Program, which provides over 16,000 meals a year to students in 11 Phoenix area schools. Backpacks are stocked with breakfast, lunch and snack items and then distributed to children who rely on school nutrition during the week. While these kids receive meals at school, many would otherwise go hungry on the weekends. With the support of the Backpack Program, they return to school on Monday ready to learn. The cost is $180 per golfer. For more information, visit templekolami.org/golf.
ANCALA COUNTRY CLUB
discovered writings from the diary of Anne Frank – as well as survivor accounts – to create an impassioned story of lives of Jews persecuted under Nazi rule, it is a story that continually lingers in our minds throughout the generations because of its optimism and intrinsic truth: the idea that no matter how dire the circumstances, faith in the good of people is what keeps the world in balance – even when all seems lost. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit arizonatheatre.org.
SAM ACE: SOUND POETRY
Samuel Ace is a transgender poet, sound artist, photographer and author of several books. His most recent book is Our Weather Our Sea and includes an accompanying album of sound work. He will be performing on May 6 at 7 pm at the Memorial Garden of the Jewish History Museum at 564 S. Stone Ave. in 70 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
PREVIEWS PREVIEWS Explore Arizona Expo gives you the chance to discover our diverse state from the Colorado River to the missions of Southern Arizona. Experience the beauty, grandeur and secrets of our state in a whole new way. Tickets are $10 per person and ages 13 and under are free. Proceeds benefit Sun Sounds. Sun Sounds of Arizona provides audio access to information to people who cannot read print because they have a disability. For more information, visit storyfest.kjzz.org.
BODIES REVEALED OPENS AT ODYSEA IN THE DESERT
Bodies Revealed is a must-see exhibit opening Saturday, May 12 at OdySea in the Desert at 9500 E. Via de Ventura in Scottsdale. This limited time exhibition offers an intimate and informative view into the human body. Using an innovative preservation process, the exhibit allows visitors to see the human body’s inner beauty in educational and awe-inspiring ways. Bodies Revealed features more than 200 actual human bodies and specimens meticulously dissected and respectfully displayed, offering an unprecedented and wholly unique view into the amazing body. Bodies Revealed will enlighten, empower and inspire. Admission prices are: $19.95 ages 13-64, $17.95 ages 65 and up, $14.95 ages 2-12; tickets are valid for the date selected. Guests may enter after 9 am. For more information, visit bodiesaz.com/ticket-information.
STORYFEST AND EXPLORE ARIZONA EXPO
Explore Arizona through stories and more at the StoryFest and Explore Arizona Expo on Saturday, May 12 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Mesa Convention Center at 263 N. Center St. in Mesa. Join public radio in celebrating the popular art of storytelling. Fans of all ages are flocking to storyteller events across the Valley and now it’s your turn! Listen to some of the stories that make up Arizona and explore diverse offerings across this rich state.
RABBI ELANA KANTER • DR. JENNIFER BROWN
HONORING WOMEN WITHIN JUDAISM
Join Rabbi Elana Kanter (The Women’s Jewish Learning Center) and psychologist and educator Dr. Jennifer Brown for the presentation Honoring Women Within Judaism: Sexism, Sexuality and Spirituality of Modern Judaism on May 15 from 7 to 8:30 pm at The New Shul at 7825 E. Paradise Lane in Scottsdale. At a moment where the importance of hearing women’s voices in contemporary spaces in business, medicine, the arts, and politics is a growing need, Rabbi Kanter and Dr. Brown want to encourage that same reflection of women’s voices within Judaism. Together, they will explore the traditional mitzvot and modern taboos that belong specifically to women from both rabbinic and scientific perspectives. Join Valley Beit Midrash and The Women’s Leadership Institute for an evening of discussion and introspection as we honor the needed nexus of women and feminism within the Jewish experience! For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org.
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S E C A F & PLACES
BABY U REUNION – The Bureau of Jewish Education’s Jewish Baby University held a reunion for their Fall 2017 class. The families that attended are, from left, Kopolows, Schmeissers, Abads, Khazanovichs, Galan-Ginzburskys & Hoodins. NEW INSTALLATION – On Sunday, April 15, Scottsdale Post 210 of the Jewish War Veterans held its installation of new officers at Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant in Scottsdale. Mel Brody served as the installation officer and inducted Rochel Hayman as Commander, Fred Lipovitch as Senior Vice Commander, Juli Altman as Judge Advocate and Stan Rosen as Sergeant at Arms. Thirty members of the Post were in attendance for the luncheon that followed.
BRANDEIS BOOK BASH – The Brandeis National Committee Phoenix Chapter's annual Book and Author Event was held on March 12. Nearly 900 people attended to hear five top selling authors. TOP :From left, Tina Brown, A. J Finn, Tayari Jones, Jon and Beth Messer and Steven J. Ross. Photo by Charles Abrams BOTTOM: From left, Carol Abrams (event chair) Gary and Sharon Schuster, and Ronald D. Liebowitz , President of Brandeis University. Photo by Charles Abrams
A DAY AT THE OASIS – Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Eshet Chayil women’s group had a sneak preview of Castle Hot Springs resort that will open this fall. The site has all natural hot springs claimed to have medicinal powers. Wealthy businessmen, politicians and presidents used to stay in its exclusive resort that closed to the public in 1976. The women hiked, swam, shmoozed, picnicked, learned, meditated and laughed together. PASSOVER BLESSINGS – Gesher Disability Resources members and volunteers get ready for Passover with Rabbi John Linder and Cantor Raina Sinclair at Gesher's 3rd Annual Community Model Passover Seder. Thanks go to Temple Solel Religious School students for the beautiful decorations.
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PLAY BALL – Several ballplayers from Team Israel who appeared in the 22nd Annual Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival movie, “Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel” appeared at the film’s screening in Scottsdale, along with the documentary’s co-director Seth Kramer. The record-breaking 2018 Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival saw FIDF FUNCTION – There was an event held on March 15 at the home of more than 10,000 attendees over its Linda and Howard Zell to introduce Friends of the Israel Defense Forces to two-week run in Scottsdale, Tempe and Arizona. From left, Michael Dolinka, FIDF Regional Director; Elana Michael, FIDF CLEANING UPits– Jan Hertzfeld, Carol Sinai and Arnie Schwartz, along with Peoria, making it the biggest fest in Associate Director; Avi Melamed, Middle East Strategic Intelligence Analyst; IDF several other members of Beth Ami Temple of Paradise Valley, joined the City history. Captain Dor Klianman; Linda and Howard Zell. of Phoenix and Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival the Sierra Club in cleaning up the Phoenix Rio Solado Preserve. PhotoSinger courtesy Beth Ami Temple co-Executive Directors Barry and Jerry Mittelman with “Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel” director Seth Kramer. The Tale of Team Israel director codirector Seth Kramer poses with some Jewish sports MVPs, including members of Team Israel.
STRONGER TOGETHER – On Tuesday, April 10, Valley Beit Midrash hosted an interfaith community panel at Temple Chai. From left, Imam Didmar Faja of the United Islamic Center of Arizona, Rabbi Emily Langowitz of Temple Solel, and Rev. Erin Tamayo of the Presbyterian Church (USA), served as panelists and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz as the facilitator.
LEARNING FROM THE PAST – Marion Weinzweig, Holocaust survivor and author spoke about her book, Lonely Chameleon, and signed copies during a visit that was part of the temple’s Yom Hashoah commemoration. From left, students from Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley’s religious school, Mikah, Hailey, Jeremy, Leah and Sarah stand behind author Marion Weinzweig.
AGING WISELY – The Wise Aging Breakfast was held on Monday, March 12, celebrating the 1st anniversary of Wise Aging groups in the Valley. Nine different groups have been held in various locations across the Valley with more than 95 women and men having participated in just the first year. The BJE recently held a training for new facilitators planning to start more groups this coming year. From left, Aileen Louik, Connie Harris, Ellen Williams, Linda Levin and Vicki Wallach.
NOT ON OUR WATCH – Oskar Knoblauch shared his Holocaust survivor story and some empowering thoughts on how respect and dignity can be life altering on April 9 during the 6th Genocide Awareness Week at Scottsdale Community College. Photo courtesy Scottsdale Community College
ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE | MAY 2018 73
MAY CALENDAR Through June 3
May 4 & 11
The Diary of Anne Frank. See page 70.
Sunrise Yoga at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale at 5:30 am. Join us for a beautiful yoga practice as we enjoy May 1 the Arizona sunrise. Class is held outside in the Escaping the Retirement Trap at the Valley of the east amphitheater. Dress appropriately and bring Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale water. Free for members. All levels welcome. For from 8 to 9:30 am. Learn to avoid the business more information, contact 480-481-7090 or owners’ retirement trap with Nathan S. Sachs. Learn how to fill the days, live in an after-tax world healthandfitness@vosjcc.org. without the company checkbook and to manage taxable income. Light refreshments served. $5 donation per session. Register by calling Andrea Quen at 480-481-1753 or andreaq@vosjcc.org. Sunset Yoga at the Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale at 6 pm. Join us for a beautiful yoga practice as we enjoy the Arizona sunset. Class is held outside in the east amphitheater. Dress appropriately and bring water. Free for members. All levels welcome. For more information, contact 480-481-7090 or healthandfitness@vosjcc.org.
May 12 Bodies Revealed Opens at OdySea in the Desert. See page 71. StoryFest and Explore Arizona Expo. See page 71.
May 14 Sip and Schmooze in the Barn at the Orchard,
7100 N. 12th St., Phoenix at 11 am. Sip on May 6 Gesher Disability Resources goes Bowling at Let it Roll Bowl at 8925 N. 12th St. in Phoenix at 1 pm. Join Gesher Disability Resources (formerly Council for Jews with Special Needs) for a fun indoor afternoon of bowling! Open for everyone in the community to come have fun and meet new friends! This bowling alley is wheelchair accessible. For more information, contact jacquelyn@gesherdr.org.
kosher coffee or tea, enjoy a homemade pastry and Schmooze with great company. For more information, contact chani@sosaz.org.
May 15 Honoring Women Within Judaism. See page 71.
Bake a Cheesecake at the Tucson JCC, 3800 E. River Road, Tucson from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. During the Hebrew month of Sivan, we celebrate the holiday of Shavuot. Learn about the holiday Sam Ace: Sound Poetry. See page 70. and messages of Shavuot. Enjoy a dairy dinner, and learn to make cheesecake! $20. For more May 2 May 7 information, visit tucsonjcc.org. Secular Education in Hasidic Yeshivas: Why We Golfing for Good. See page 70. Should All Care at Temple Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn May 19 Road, Phoenix from 7 to 8:30 pm. A talk with May 8 Tikkun Leil Shavuot at Congregation Anshei Naftuli Moster, executive director of Yaffed, How Do Jewish Values Influence How I Do Israel, 5550 E. Fifth St., Tucson from 7:45 pm about secular education in Hasidic Yeshivas. $18 Business? at Congregation Beth Tefillah, 10636 to midnight. Annual program to observe the suggested donation. For more information, visit N. 71st Way #1, Scottsdale from 7 to 8:30 pm. celebration of the anniversary of the day Moses valleybeitmidrash.org. Judaism isn’t relevant if it’s relegated to the received the Ten Commandments from God. confines of the synagogue. Instead, Jewish values Includes service, dairy dinner, two study sessions, May 2-June 6 should permeate the entirety of our lives. Learn dessert and the reading of the Book of Ruth. $ 8 Introduction to Ballroom Dancing at the Tucson from leading community professionals about how per person to attend dinner; no charge for service, JCC, 3800 E. River Road, Tucson from 6:15 to they bring their Jewish ethics to work. Panelists study sessions and dessert. For more information, 7:40 pm on Wednesdays. Fred Astaire Dance Lon Babby (Phoenix Suns), Adam Goodman visit caiaz.org. Studios Tucson has designed a custom program (Goodman Interiors), and Ilana Lowery (The to develop these benefits for any level of dancer. Phoenix Business Journal), facilitated by Howard Tikkun Leil Shavuot – Book of Ruth at Temple We begin with simple basic movements and build Cabot (Perkins Coie). $18 suggested donation. Emanu-El, 225 N. Country Club Road, Tucson them into progressively more challenging dance For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org. from 8 to 9 pm. Bring your favorite cheesecake or steps and technique based on the growth of each dairy dessert. We’ll eat and study and enjoy. student. For more information, visit tucsonjcc.org. May 10 Join the fun and be sure to join us the next Professor Jeremy Dauber - Jewish Comedy: A morning at 9:30 am for Festival Services with May 3 Yizkor and reading the Book of Ruth. Free. For Serious History at the Valley of the Sun JCC, An evening with Annabelle Gurwitch. See page more information, contact 520-327-4501 or 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale from 7 68. tfrazier@tetucson.org. to 8:30 pm. Jeremy Dauber traces the origins of Jewish comedy from biblical times progressing JFCS Memory Café at Beth El Congregation, to the Twitter age and explores the ways Jewish May 21 1118 W. Glendale Ave. in Phoenix from 10 to comedy has dealt with persecution, assimilation Jewish Women of Phoenix Breast Cancer Support 11:30 am. This month, Memory Café will feature and diaspora through the ages, as well as a range Group at Temple Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, a special interactive dance program. The Café is of comic masterpieces from Talmudic rabbi jokes Phoenix from 6:30 to 8 pm. Supporting Jewish a meeting place for those with changes in their to “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” In partnership with women in their journey through all stages of thinking or memory, mild cognitive impairment or Valley Beit Midrash. $18 donation. Register at breast cancer – including treatment, recovery and dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease or a related vosjcc.org/dauber. the physical and spiritual challenges along the disorder, along with their care partners. For more way. For more information, contact Jessica Knight information, contact Kathy Rood at 602-452 at 202-359-6835 or jessicabcgroup@outlook. 4627 or kathy.rood@jfcsaz.org. com.
74 MAY 2018 | ARIZONA JEWISH LIFE
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