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Happy, Healthy Seniors PAGE 2
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INSIDE
PUBLISHED SINCE 1947 BY THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER LONG BEACH AND WEST ORANGE COUNTY
Alpert JCC
Around the “J”
January 2014 | 5774 | TEVET-SHEVAT | VOL.66-NO.5
FEATURE ARTICLE
Happy, Healthy Seniors
By Susan Mathieu, AJCC Senior Adult Coordinator
S
omeone recently asked me at what age do you consider someone a senior? I believe the age is self-defined. Some say it is retirement age, others say it is when life just begins. My mom, Sally Leifer, is 92-years-old and won’t participate in senior programs in her community because, “she is not old yet!” However, many program participants say their involvement in senior adult activities is the highlight of their week. The Jewish Community of Greater Long Beach supports and inspires our local senior adults in many different ways. Through the Jewish Community Partnership, our local agencies work with each other to provide this support. Jewish Family and Children’s Service (JFCS), along with the Alpert Jewish Community Center (AJCC) and the Jewish Federation, receive funding from the Archstone Foundation for the Active Adult Community Connection program. Other programs are funded in part from the Jewish Federation’s Annual Community Campaign. One such program is the Senior Adult Program of the AJCC, which includes the Senior Lunch Program, held each Wednesday at 12 noon. Each week, we welcome local seniors for lunch, companionship and a wonderful program. It is truly incredible to see so many senior adults file into the lunch and afternoon program. The smiles and conversation can lift anyone’s spirit; I tease my family and say that it feels like a Bar Mitzvah each Wednesday. Many local seniors find volunteer programs to be fulfilling and beneficial. One loyal volunteer to the Senior Lunch Program, Geri, takes two buses and arrives on Wednesdays by 7:30 AM. Another volunteer, Inga, first attended four years ago upon the urging of her daughter-in-law. Recently widowed, Inga moved to Long Beach to be closer to her son. She was not an enthusiastic participant, however, the second week changed everything. She met a “kitchen” volunteer and they made a strong connection. Inga felt comfortable volunteering, along with attending community events. Today, four years later, she is the proud recipient of the Senior Volunteer of the Year award. Inga has not missed a Super Sunday nor a senior excursion. Inga told me recently that her involvement gives her life purpose, something to get up in the morning for, and the friends she has made are the best. Recently a daughter of an elderly couple called me. She had convinced her parents to move from Rhode Island to Long Beach to be close to family. Initially they were resistant to attending the Senior Lunch Program and now, after just five weeks, they look forward to each Wednesday. They recently celebrated their 65th anniversary with their newly found family at our lunch program.
Susan Mathieu (2nd from left) & volunteers at the 2013 Senior Adult 4th of July BBQ Party
In addition to a meal, the Senior Lunch Program offers an after-lunch program designed to address the safety of older adults at home and in the community; reduce isolation; maintain and improve the physical, mental health and well-being of older adults; and offer suggestions for other programs and services that contribute to the quality of life for our community senior adults. We encourage activity directors from Sunrise, Bixby Knolls Towers and Breakers to provide transportation for their seniors to attend the Wednesday luncheons. I have been invited to speak at civic organizations, synagogues and churches to share about our program. Additionally, there is a close collaboration with JFCS to help local seniors in other ways. A recent example occurred last week. A woman was being evicted from her small apartment and was quite upset. She didn’t know where to turn. I referred “Esther” to a case manager, and together, they found resources to help her. This scenario occurs on a weekly basis, may it be housing, financial issues, or health related problems. The partnership among the agencies is a wonderful resource and benefit to local seniors. Furthermore, the number of participants to Senior Adult programming is increasing. Every senior outing last year, including the Hollywood Bowl, International City Theater and Hertzog Kosher Winery, were filled to capacity. We have had an increase in volunteers to pack and drive during our special holiday outreaches, such as Rosh Hashanah, Chanukah and Passover. We also coordinate with AJCC Early Childhood Education parents to take their young children to visit homebound seniors. One of our outreach volunteers, Jessica Pearlman, happens to be the principle oboe player in the Orange County Pacific Symphony. She has arranged several mini-concerts for our Senior Adult Program. Another volunteer, Barbara Snegg, has managed the construction of new cabinets in the kitchen on the Weinberg Jewish Federation Campus. She labeled all the containers
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and our volunteer folk say the kitchen could win awards for best organized. A new program we are working on, together with the Hebrew Academy, will have some of our older adults attending Grandparents Day at the school this month. They will be stand-in grandparents for children who may not have a grandma or grandpa. Thank you to Rabbi Popack who is coordinating this wonderful event. Another agency, geared specifically towards older adults, is RSVP, also housed on the Weinberg Jewish Federation Campus. RSVP matches the personal interests and skills of 600 plus older adults with opportunities to help solve community problems, offering portal-to-portal supplemental insurance and mileage reimbursement. RSVP volunteers contribute anywhere from a few, to over forty hours a week. Volunteers are provided flexibility and choices in their assignments. RSVP provides opportunities for people 55 and over to make a difference in their community through volunteer service. According to Sylvia Goldstein, she derives much satisfaction from her RSVP volunteer work and she has participated in a variety of jobs including Super Sunday, Senior Police Partners, recruiting other older adults at Volunteer Fairs and she does office work for the RSVP program. I asked what she enjoyed doing the most, and she replied, being an advocate for the seniors, going to the Long Beach City Council meeting recently and supporting the need for transportation for seniors. Watch for two upcoming senior events, including the 3rd Annual New Year’s Day Big Bash and the Happiness and Humor Group. Last year, we had over 200 participants at the New Year’s Day Party. Seniors from all over the Greater Long Beach Area, along with many parts of Orange County, attended. The Happiness and Humor group will be on the first Friday of each month at 11:00 AM. Light refreshments will be served. We are happy to provide for our senior adults. There are many, and the need is strong. If you know of any senior adults that could use a happy weekly luncheon and programming, please contact Susan Mathieu, Senior Adult Coordinator at the AJCC, at 562-426-7601 x1721 or smathieu@alpertjcc.org. Known as the “happy professor,” Susan Mathieu serves as the AJCC Senior Adult Coordinator and the Program Director for Active Adult Community Connection. In addition to being an adjunct professor for Florida International University, Susan also teaches classes at the Long Beach Senior Center. Recently she was nominated as a finalist in the Education category of the PressTelegram’s 4th Annual Amazing Women Awards program. Mazel Tov Susan!
Published since 1947 by the Jewish Federation and Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Long Beach & West Orange County
Hank Feldman JEWISH FEDERATION PRESIDENT
Lea Gerber JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION PRESIDENT
Deborah Goldfarb
Contents 1a-4a
5
Around the “J”
The Start to Funding Our Future
January Events at the Alpert Jewish Community Center
By Deborah K. Goldfarb, CEO, Jewish Federation, Jewish Community Foundation
CEO
6
Danny Levy
13
Jewish Women’s Theatre Performs at VISIONS
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Khatera Zubin MARKETING & CHRONICLE COORDINATOR CHRONICLE ADVERTISING
Finding the Fountain of Youth By Steven T. Forman, MD, FACC, FSCAI, RVT
Erin Bellinghausen GRAPHIC ARTIST
Jewish Federation Jewish Community Foundation 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791 562-426-7601 FAX 562-424-3915 www.jewishlongbeach.org
Jewish Community Partnership Corporate Partners
PUBLICATION & ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT 562-426-7601 EXT 1006 chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org ADVERTISING & COPY DEADLINE First Wednesday of the month: March 2014 deadline: Feb 5th ISSN# 1525- 6847
_____________________ Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Member
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Shabbat Candlelighting
January 3
4:38 pm
January 10
4:44 pm
January 17
4:50 pm
January 24
4:57 pm
January 31
5:03 pm
Cover Image Penny Bayless & Larry Rubin dancing at the 2012 Senior Adult New Year’s Day Dance & Party
The Shadden Group at Morgan Stanley Wealth Managment
Craig Kain, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist (Psy 14664)
Become a Corporate Partner Today Contact The Jewish Community Partnership at 562-426-7601. For more information about our Corporate Partners, visit www.jewishlongbeach.org/sponsors
The appearance of product or establishment advertising in the Jewish Community Chronicle does not constitute an endorsement of kashruth. Opinions printed in the Jewish Community Chronicle do not necessarily reflect those of the Jewish Federation. The publication of a paid political advertisement does not constitute endorsement of any candidate, political party or political position by the Jewish Federation or any employee.
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 3
INSIDE THE CHRONICLE
The Jewish Community
Jewish Federation Jewish Community Foundation OF GREATER LONG BEACH & WEST ORANGE COUNTY
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The Start to Funding Our Future Deborah K. Goldfarb Chief Executive Officer, Jewish Federation Jewish Community Foundation
I am very proud to announce that as we embark upon the active phase of our fundraising to ensure a vibrant future for the Long Beach Jewish Community, Judi Lentzner has agreed to chair the Fund for Our Future portion of our Power of 2 efforts. As immediate past president of the Jewish Community Foundation, Judi is an excellent choice…she understands the needs of our agencies and the importance of building long term endowments, and she has been involved in numerous leadership positions in her 40 year history of involvement in our community. These excerpts from her recent remarks to the Foundation Board express well the importance of our efforts to build future endowments, special projects and capital funds. Many years ago, there was a wonderful woman in our community many knew by the name of Muriel Baldwin
who was married to Bob Baldwin. When Muriel died in the 80’s, Jim Linden’s mom from Detroit came for a visit and eventually married Bob Baldwin, and they left a wonderful legacy in this community. Back to Muriel – She had a great passion for JFCS and worked hard and raised awareness and a great deal of money for the agency. But for the few of us who remember Muriel, we clearly recall one meeting during a rather impassioned discussion in which she called out loudly, and with a very firm voice – “Let’s call a SPADE a SHOVEL.” Now why did I tell you this story? Seven years ago my brother-in-law, Gene Lentzner asked me to chair a new committee called LEGACY – a group that would take the message of the Foundation to the community through educational speakers, parlor meetings, and eventually, the first Legacy of Leadership Gala, followed by two other Galas, each more successful that the other. The last was so successful, that the six participating agencies received an additional $25,000 to
use as they wish. So many successes, so why, may you ask, do we now want to create another committee, ostensibly doing the same thing? The Foundation’s Legacy Committee will continue to do all the things they have done well for seven years. The Fund for our Future is the combined Foundation and Federation campaign arm acting on behalf of the Jewish Community Partnership agencies. Who opens the doors to those cultivations – all of us? A committee will be made up of those individuals from all of the agencies who “enjoy” reaching out to the community, a special breed unto themselves. The Fund for our Future will define and sell the specific priorities and programs of the agencies. While the ongoing Legacy Committee efforts will continue to educate the community on why ensuring the future through legacy giving is important, and on how a family can do estate planning which will benefit the agencies they love and provide tax savings, the Fund for our Future will highlight the urgency of providing for
the specific needs of each agency as our community’s major contributors age. We have created a complete menu of agency programs which need funding and which donors can name, and endow through their legacy gifts. Continuing to get cash toward the current refurbishment of our campus and creating a reserve for future replacement of major systems is high on our list. Continuing to provide our community with endowment opportunities through charitable remainder trusts, charitable lead trusts, life insurance and more will be foremost in our presentations. We’re beginning to make significant progress towards our goals, see column to the right. We hope each community member will consider getting involved in this effort to ensure the future. Specific gifting and naming opportunities are available beginning at the $1,000 level. Thank you all for giving serious consideration to joining these efforts. For more information please call me, Deborah Goldfarb, at 562426-7601.
The Fund for our Future PRIORITIES
TEENS & YOUNG ADULTS
OLDER ADULT SERVICES
CAPITAL
• Clinical Services
JEWISH EDUCATION and IDENTITY
• Leadership Development
•
ECE Playground
• Social Engagement
• Senior Lunch Program
• Family Engagement
•
Security Upgrades
• Israel Connection
• Home Base Case Mgmnt
• Israel Education
•
Pool Area Enhancement
• Maccabi Games
• Engagement Activities
• Scholarships
•
• Counselors in Training
• Holiday Outreach
• Art & Culture
Reserve/Replacement HVAC; Roof; Boiler
Where We Are as of 12/20/13
2014 Annual Community Campaign $1,540,000 to date $459,100
goal of
Fund for our Future Capital Refurbishment Fund goal of $3,000,000 to date $532,730 Program Innovation Fund goal of $3,000,000 to date $473,403 Current & Future Endowment Funds goal of $10,000,000 to date $3,040,000
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 5
Jewish Women’s Theatre Performs at VISIONS
This year’s Arlene Solomon VISIONS event is being chaired by all of the past Women’s Philanthropy chairs. Nine of the past Women’s Philanthropy chairs (pictured here at VISIONS 2010) seated (L-R) Shelley Carl, Barbara Alpert, & Linda Simmons; standing (L-R) Amy Lipeles, Sandra Horwitz, Phyllis Wallis, Shari Nemirow, Nancy Linden, & Syndee Luxenberg. Not pictured: Sylvia Coonen, Lyn Epstein, Shirley Feiwell, Diane Karp, Stephany Rosenthal, Gerda Seifer, Barbara Shoag & Gabrielle Tsabag
Each year, the Arlene Solomon VISIONS Dinner (hosted by Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation) brings women, from across the community, together to enjoy each other’s company, hear an exciting program, and honor Women of VISION from local Jewish organizations. This year’s VISIONS program will take place on Thurs., March 6, 2014 and
we are proud to announce a special performance from the Jewish Women’s Theatre. The nonprofit Jewish Women’s Theatre develops original theatre productions written by Jewish women about their lives in America today and produces those stories in a salon theatre format. Jewish Women’s Theatre will present The Art of Forgiveness, a compilation of stories, plays, poems and
song that asks the question, “What does it mean to forgive and why it’s so darn hard to do it?” Siblings fight at Chanukah, never forgiving one another. A wife is betrayed at her own Passover Seder and wishes she could forgive. An academic on Fulbright to Germany is exposed as a Jew and must deal with a German national asking forgiveness. A woman accidentally kills a pedestrian
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while texting and driving. These, and other gripping stories, will make you laugh and cry in this moving and poignant show. “You will not want to miss this riveting theatrical experience,” states Shari Nemirow. “In addition to a fabulous program, this year’s VISIONS is also special because we have enlisted all the past Women’s Philanthropy Chairs to co-ordinate the event and we promise some other surprises to liven up the evening.” The evening is open to all women and benefits the Jewish Community Partnership Agencies. Attendees are asked to make a minimum
gift to the 2014 Annual Campaign of $154 ($90 for first time attendees). If you already made your pledge of at least $154 on Opening Night, Super Sunday or through the mail, you do not need to make an additional pledge to attend. Your pledge can be paid in installments throughout the year, by check or credit card. Invitations will be mailed in early January with all the details. For more information, or if you have never attended VISIONS and would like to be on our mailing list, please call Megan Donaldson at 562-426-7601 x1014.
Caring for Our Community I did not find the world desolate when I entered it. And as my parents planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those who will come after me.� The Talmud Jewish tradition teaches us that one of our key duties is to make the world a better place for future generations. Chances are you already donate to many charitable organizations, but have you considered including those organizations in your will or trust so you can continue to make a difference for generations to come?
Foundation you help ensure that the Jewish Community will stay strong and that you control how the funds are to be distributed into the future. With one charitable bequest you can also provide for all the charities you care about (both Jewish and secular). Without your specific direction, none of your assets will pass to the Jewish Community or any charity. Your heirs may decide to use some of their inheritance to make charitable gifts in your honor and memory - but it might not be executed exactly as you wished.
Benefits of Charitable Bequests You can be sure your assets go to support causes important to you. By choosing to leave a bequest through the Jewish Community
You can leave a legacy. Even if your annual budget provides for gifts to benefit the Jewish Community, it may seem out of reach to make the size of gift you would like during your lifetime. Many of
Charitable bequests plant the seed for the future
us need access to all of our assets or the income they generate. At the end of your life, a gift through your will or trust can be an ideal way to realize your larger charitable objectives by designating some of those assets for charity. It is easy to do and you may realize some tax benefits. If you already have a will or trust, you can arrange a charitable bequest with a
simple amendment or codicil. You can specify a specific asset, percentage of your estate or a fixed dollar amount that you want to leave to the organizations that you care about. The Foundation can provide you with sample language. Bequests can be made in any amount. There is no amount that is too small. Depending on your circum-
stances, a bequest to a charity may help reduce estate taxes. When you choose to leave a bequest through the Jewish Community Foundation, you create a permanent legacy that will benefit the community for generations to come. The staff of the Jewish Community Foundation is available to speak with you about bequests and other deferred giving options. For more information, please call Sharon Kenigsberg at the Foundation office 562-4267601 x1008. The views expressed in this article are not intended, nor may they be relied upon, as legal, accounting or other professional advice. Before making a gift decision, you should consult your own professional advisor.
Philanthropy Made Easy
Gifts of Life Insurance
If you own a life insurance policy that is no longer needed, it may be the perfect vehicle for a charitable gift. Life insurance is a wonderful way to make a large gift in the future, using a small amount of current funds. By making the Jewish Community Foundation the owner and beneficiary of your life insurance policy, the annual premium is fully tax-deductible. If the policy has a cash value, you can take a deduction approximately equal to the cash value at the time of the gift. In addition, if annual premiums are still to be made and you continue to pay them, those premiums will become tax deductible each year. It’s easy to contribute a life insurance policy to us. Just check with your life insurance agent for details on which forms to complete. There are many ways to make a difference with life insurance. You may gift an existing policy or younger people may purchase a policy as an endowment to benefit the Jewish Community in the future. Call the Jewish Community Foundation to help you make it happen.
Sharon Kenigsberg |562.426.7601 x1008 | sharonk@jewishlongbeach.org
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 7
CONGREGATIONS
R A B B I N I C
R E F L E C T I O N S
The Bible’s Tip for Longevity By Rabbi Shmuel Marcus
It’s logical to say that as a reader of a Rabbi Shmuel guest rabbi colMarcus umn, you do not seek jokes or investment tips. As a reader myself, I trust that the rabbi has spent years trying to understand the word of g-d on a particular issue, and I hope to read what the rabbi has figured out. So as a rabbi, I have discovered that the Torah has instructions for almost everything we do. How often to vacation? (Every Shabbat). What time to set
your alarm? (Crack of dawn). How much to spend on your wife? (More than one can afford). What the Torah does not clearly state, we learn by example. How well did the polygamous marriages of our forefathers go? Not very well, hence the rabbis learned to ban polygamy. If the Torah spends the effort to tell us a story, it surely includes important life lessons and tips. So what is the Jewish view on buying a burial plot for yourself? Should one wait till the actual time of need,
thereby showing their faith that they may live forever? Or should one purchase a plot at a young age? In the Torah, Abraham is the first recorded Hebrew to purchase a plot. His wife, Sarah, had died and he purchased a plot for her, and at the same time (drum roll please), he bought a plot for himself. What is amazing is the Torah’s next words: “And Abraham lived a very long time.” It’s a verse that does not flow with the story. It seems interjected here for a reason. The sages all agree
Area Synagogue Upcoming Events
that it’s a clear message for us. Simply put: buy yourself a plot and you will live a very long life. It’s not a bad omen to talk to a rabbi and arrange your afterlife needs. It’s actually a blessing. It’s a merit we can all use, as we enjoy a long and healthy life together with our loved ones. May we all live long and prosper. Amen. Rabbi Shmuel Marcus is the Executive Director of Chabad in Los Alamitos and co-founder of the Los Al Hebrew High. You can reach him at www.chabadLosAl.com.
Below you will find events happening at our local synagogues. Please contact them directly if you have any questions using the Synagogue Directory on this page.
Temple Beth David Sunday, 1/12 @11:30 am: TBD Sisterhood’s fashion show & luncheon for $25.00 in the Social Hall. Fashions from Drapers & Damon in Los Alamitos, all styles & sizes will be modeled; children’s fashions from Rascals to Rebels in Los Alamitos. RSVP by Jan. 5. Sunday, 1/26 @11 am: TBD Brotherhood’s 7th Annual Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament, dedicated to the memory of Ed Farber & Bob Postman. Howie’s French Dip Sandwiches, beverages & prizes (including American Green Gift Cards)! RSVP by Jan. 14 - first rebuy for only $10.00. Contact the temple for more info on either event. Temple Beth Shalom Friday, 1/17: Sisterhood Anniversary Shabbat. Sisterhood members will join with our clergy to celebrate another year as members of the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism & participate in TBS’ Shabbat service. A special Oneg Shabbat following services, so plan on joining us! Contact the temple for more info.
Temple Israel Saturday, 1/4 @10:30 am: Sabbath Fellowship Service & Program. Live entertainment featuring musician & comedienne, Cali Rose. Program specially designed for seniors, includes a brief Shabbat Service followed by entertainment & a luncheon for only $5. RSVP to the temple office. Can’t make it this month? Join us next month, we have Sabbath Fellowship the first Saturday of every month. Temple Ner Tamid Wednesday, 1/15 @6 pm: International Dinner at Carino’s Italian Restaurant in Downey Landing Mall, 10822 Lakewood Blvd. Continuing a popular fundraiser, Carino’s will donate 25% of food sales generated by our supporters at this event back to the temple. Special reserved dining section at 6 pm, but the arrangement is good from 11 am-10 pm and take-out with event flyer. Contact temple office for more info. If your synagogue would like to be a part of this listing, please submit your events to chronicle@ jewishlongbeach.org.
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Synagogue Directory Chabad of Cypress (O) 10433 Los Alamitos Blvd. Los Alamitos, CA 90720 Contact: Rabbi Shmuel Marcus Phone: 714-828-1851 Email: smarcus@jewishcypress.com Website: www.chabadlosal.com
Chabad of West Orange County/ Congregation Adat Israel (O) 5052 Warner Ave. Huntington Beach Contact: Rabbi Aron David Berkowitz Phone: 714-846-2285 Email: info@chabadhb.com Website: www.chabadhb.com Congregation Ahavas Yisroel (O) 10433 Los Alamitos Boulevard Los Alamitos, CA 90720 Contact: Rabbi Yitzchok Marcus Website: Under Construction E-mail: CongAhavas@aol.com Phone: 562-493-4570 Congregation Lubavitch (O) 3981 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90807 Contact: Rabbi Newman Phone: 562-426-5480 Email: yitzyg@aol.com Congregation Shir Chadash (I) 6440 Del Amo Blvd. Lakewood, CA 90713 Contact Rabbi Howard Laibson Phone: 562-429-0715 Email:csclakewood@dslextreme.com Website: www.CongregationShirChadash.org Congregation Sholom Leisure World, Seal Beach (C) P. O. Box 2901 Seal Beach, CA 90740 Contact: Rabbi Galit Levy-Slater Spiritual Leader 562-493-2680 Email: duets@icloud.com Website: www.galityomtov.com P’nai Or (I) Long Beach, CA Contact: Cantor Steven Puzarne Spiritual Director Email: cantor@pnaior.org Website: www.PnaiOr.org Phone 562-364-5154 Shul By The Shore (O) Seaport Marina Hotel 6400 Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, California 90803 Contact: Rabbi Abba Perelmuter Phone: 562-621-9828 Email: rabbi@shulbytheshore.org Website: www.shulbytheshore.org Surf City Synagogue (C) Services held at the HB Central Library 7111 Talbert Ave. Huntington Beach Phone: 714-596-2220 E-Mail: info@surfcitysynagogue.org Temple Beth David (R) 6100 Hefley St. Westminster, CA 92683 Contact: Rabbi Nancy Myers Phone: 714-892-6623 Email: tbdavid@templebethdavid.org Website: www.templebethdavid.org Temple Beth Ohr (R) 15721 E. Rosecrans Ave. La Mirada, CA 90638 Contact: Rabbi Mark Goldfarb Phone: 714-521-6765 Email:tmplbthohr@aol.com Website: www.templebethohr.com Temple Beth Shalom (C) 3635 Elm Ave. Long Beach, CA 90807 Contact: Rabbi David Klatzker Phone: 562-426-6413 Email: rabbi@tbslb.org Website: www.tbslb.org Temple Israel (R) 269 Loma Ave. Long Beach, CA 90803 Contact: Rabbi Steven Moskowitz Phone: 562-434-0996 Email: info@tilb.org Website: www.tilb.org Temple Ner Tamid of Downey (R) 10629 Lakewood Boulevard Downey, CA 90241 Contact: Rabbi Dany Mehlman Phone: 562-861-9276 Email: templenertamid1@dslextereme.com Website: www.downeytemplenertamid.org (R)=Reform (O)=Orthodox
(C)=Conservative (I)=Independent
3801 E. WILLOW STREET LONG BEACH, CA 90815 FOR MORE INFORMATION: Phone: (562)426-7601 www.alpertjcc.org
inside
Around the “J”
Open Casting Call for “Working”. . . . . . 2a Jewish Women in Film Talk . . . . . . . . . . . 2a Challah Cooking Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2a
Sr. Adult Happiness & Humor Group. . . 3a Sr. Adult New Year’s Day Bash . . . . . . . . 3a Youth Basketball League . . . . . . . . . . . . 3a
ECE Spring Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4a MLK Jr Day Camp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4a Teen Snowboarding/Ski Trip . . . . . . . . . 4a
Tevet-Shevat 5774
JANUARY 2014
Around the “J”
ADULTS Eve Lunt, elunt@alpertjcc.org • (562) 426-7601, ext. 1067
JCC Film Talk: An Examination of the Portrayal of Jewish Women in Film, Take 2 As 2013 comes to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate together the J’s many successes over the past year. Programmatically, 2013 was stronger than ever. Our camp and Kids’ University afterschool programs boasted their highest enrollment yet, and the purchase of a new school bus will allow us to enhance the quality youth and teen programming we provide to the Long Beach community. Our Early Childhood Education is one of the most renowned preschools in the area, and with over 300 families enrolled, continues to be full with a waitlist. GesherCity, our young adult program, consistently draws an average of 80 young adults to its monthly Shabbat dinners, and just this December set a new record in attendance for its annual Chanukah party, Rock the Dreidel. Senior programming also continued to grow with over 70 seniors joining in our weekly lunches and close to 200 participating in events like the New Year’s Party. Our Pete Davis/AJCC youth basketball program was in such high demand that we added a third league this year, and more members than ever participated in personal training and our 54 complimentary weekly fitness classes. Our many special events such as the Long Beach Jewish Film Festival, our community theater production of Fiddler on the Roof, and our annual fundraising event Club 80’s Dance Party with Richard Blade (just to name a few) all brought record numbers through our doors. Membership also set a new record this August when we reached 2,291 membership units. The AJCC also continued its many Building & Grounds projects throughout the year. In 2013, we started our auditorium refurbishment project and the synthetic grass was the first step of many for our new ECE playground. We’re excited for the many programming opportunities these newly remodeled spaces will provide!
Tue, January 14, 7pm We will examine different Hollywood films and expand our conversation, in order to further our understanding of how Hollywood views Jewish women. Screen clips from films that touch on the portrayal of Jews in film and discuss common themes and trends, historical context, reality versus fiction, and concerns that these images provoke within the American Jewish Community. Class will be led by Rachel Gordon, and is presented in Partnership with Temple Israel Sisterhood. FREE Please RSVP to Eve Lunt.
JCC Cooks: Challah Club Everything You "Knead" to Know Fri, January 24, 9:30am Come to the Alpert JCC kitchen and share in the mitzvah of making challah from scratch. At our first meeting, you will learn how to make and braid a basic sweet egg challah ready to bake at home. Every month a different recipe will be shared; sign up to share yours. $5 per person, for ingredients and supplies RSVP’s to Eve Lunt are essential to ensure enough for everyone.
AJCC Poker Club Tue, January 21, 6:30-10:30pm Game starts promptly at 7pm Join our friendly Texas Hold’Em Poker Club. Poker will be played, snacks & beverages will be served & cash prizes will be won. Special: Bring a new player and get a $500 chip bonus. (Only one bonus per player per night)
$25; $20/MVP (Cash Only)
And finally, I am happy to report that for the 10th consecutive year the AJCC has increased its net assets on its balance sheet! Fiscal responsibility is one of our guiding values, and we take great pride in our ability to ensure that we continue to be Your Center For Life, for both our present and future community. Thank you for helping to make this a year to remember!
Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy New Year, Jeffrey Rips, AJCC Executive Director
OPEN CASTING CALL “Working” An Alpert JCC Community Theater Production - Directed by Sean McMullen
Wed, January 8, 7pm Working is a newly adapted musical by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Godspell), it is considered the working man’s A Chorus Line. It includes songs
by Tony Award winning Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mary Rodgers, and Grammy Award winning James Taylor and more. Please come prepared to perform a 1 minute (32 bar) selection and bring musical accompaniment on CD. Open to adults and students in high school. Call Backs will be held Thursday, January 9 at 7pm.
Rehearsal Dates: Wednesday Evenings: January 1-March 26 Performance Dates: Thur, March 27 • Sat, March 29 • Sun, March 30 Please contact Eve Lunt with any questions.
2a MVP: The MVP price is the "Member Value Price" that gives our members an automatic discount to the fee we charge for our programs and events., If you’re not a member of the AJCC speak with one of our Membership Services specialists and learn how you can start benefiting from MVP pricing today.
Women’s Weekend this year will have both teenagers and octogenarians in attendance?
Tevet-Shevat 5774
JANUARY 2014
GESHERCITY YOUNG ADULTS
Fridays, 3:30pm
Sponsored by the Alpert JCC & Jewish Federation of Greater Long Beach
Join the AJCC community for Shabbat candle lighting, Kiddush and HaMotzi. Grape juice and Challah will be provided.
Susanne Katz, skatz@alpertjcc.org • (562) 426-7601, ext. 1625
GesherCity Shabbat
Please contact Eve Lunt if you would like to participate in the blessings.
Fri, January 3, 7:30pm
Kabbalah Class
Experience Shabbat with great music, food and friends. If you’ve never been to a GesherCity event before, now is the perfect time! Our events are fun and casual. So don’t be shy… give us a try.
Wednesdays, 12pm
Find us on Facebook at GesherCity Lb
Rabbi Abba Perelmuter teaches this ongoing class where you'll add a new dimension to your life, renew your spirituality and learn something new. FREE The Pauline and Zena Gatov Gallery Presents
SPORTS & RECREATION Sascha Bryan-Zwick, sbryanzwick@alpertjcc.org • (562) 426-7601, ext. 1035
The AJCC 2nd Biannual Member/Staff Art Exhibit
Around the “J”
Weekly Shabbat Candle lighting
Youth Basketball League Starts January 26th
Exhibit continues through January 21 Reception: Thur, January 9, 6:30-8pm
The AJCC/Pete Davis Youth Basketball League kicks off its new season Sunday, January 26, with a player evaluation & placement day. This evaluation day is a requirement for all new and returning league players.
Diverse art from our talented AJCC membership and staff are on display.
The 30th Annual Norman Gottlieb Youth Art Exhibition and Awards January 22-February 27 Each year the Gatov Gallery, in conjunction with L.B. Unified School District, brings together a sampling of the best middle & high school art. Awards are presented to the top three participants from the middle & high school level. The Gottlieb show was established by past AJCC President, Norman Gottlieb, over 30 years ago, and is currently funded by a generous donation from Dr. Daniel & Nicole Honigman. Awards Reception: Thur, Feb. 27, 6:30-8pm
SENIORS Dr. Susan Mathieu, smathieu@alpertjcc.org (562) 426-7601, ext. 1721
The league is open to boys and girls who are between the ages of 5 and 13. The popular league is led by former Michigan State and NBA star, Pete Davis and his team of coaches. Beyond counting wins and losses, the league emphasizes sound fundamentals, skill development, sportsmanship, and partnership with families. All games are played on Sunday afternoons between 12pm and 6pm at the best indoor basketball facility in Long Beach, the Alpert JCC gym! In addition, one weekly practice is held on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday from 5 to 8pm. The Youth Basketball league culminates with an end of season banquet. For more information, please visit us on the web at www.alpertjcc.org or contact Sascha Bryan-Zwick at 562-426-7601 ext. 1035 or sbryanzwick@alpertjcc.org.
Happiness and Humor Group 1st Friday each month, 11am February 7, March 7, April 4 This ongoing monthly group, led by Dr. Susan Mathieu, will help you find the positive side of life. You’ll learn how to deal with difficult people and situations, steps to increase happiness in your own life, and the secret to a happy life. All senior adults are invited, so bring your friends and be ready to laugh. Coffee and light refreshments will be served. RSVP to Susan Mathieu
Sr. Adult Luncheon & Drum Circle Wed, January 15, 12pm Following the senior adult lunch program, there will be a wonderful opportunity to participate in a drum circle with a music therapist. There are many health benefits to drumming and in this presentation you can learn what those benefits are. RSVP to Dr. Susan Mathieu
Ongoing Alpert JCC Senior Activities Knit Wits: Mon, 1-3pm • Senior Lunch: Wed, 12-2pm Bridge Lessons: Wed, 1:30pm • Mah Jongg: Thur, 11:30-3pm
3a The Barbara & Ray Alpert Jewish Community Center
www.alpertjcc.org
Around the “J”
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
YOUTH & TEENS
Linda Keiles, lkeiles@alpertjcc.org • (562) 426-7601, ext. 1092
Natalie Chernik, nchernik@alpertjcc.org • (562)426-7601, ext. 1205
When Pre-School’s Out, ECE PlayDays are in!
MLK Jr Day Camp
Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.
Monday, January 20
Monday, January 20, 9am -2:30pm Ages: 2-5 years old Arts & crafts, music, stories, cooking and play $58; $48/MVP includes sandwich bar lunch morning 7-9am & afternoon 2:30-6pm childcare available @ $6.50/hr. Reservations required!
Grades K-8 9am-4pm: $55; $45/MVP per day • 7am-6pm: $65; $55/MVP per day Honor the memory of Martin Luther King by working to make a difference! Join us as we work on projects to aid our friends in Long Beach who need a helping hand. Contact Natalie Chernik at nchernik@alpertjcc.org or at ext. 1205.
Kids’ Night Out, Parents’ Night Off! Sat, January 25, 5-10pm Grades K-8
Come see what we’ve got to offer Registration is open for ECE Spring Semester Classes start week of January 27 Parent Participation classes
This fun for the kids’ night out is held on the same night as ECE Kids’ Night Out. So bring your little ones to the AJCC preschool and leave your big kids with us. The cost includes dinner, movies, games and snacks. Cost per child: $35-1st, $30-2nd, $20-3rd (must be siblings) MVP: $30-1st, $25-2nd, $15-3rd (must be siblings) Must register by Wednesday, January 22. Drop-ins will not be admitted. For more info, contact Natalie Chernik
• From the Beginning: Birth to 9 months – FREE • Yad B’Yad (Hand in Hand): 9–23 months • Moving On Transition Class: 18-28 months
Chugim & Chaverim Connection Afternoon Enrichment Classes Ages: 2-5 years old Classes include art, science, sports, oceanography, Judaics, gardening, literature, cooking, fitness, material arts, zoology, Hebrew, music, and much more. For registration info or a tour, call Alayna Cosores at ext. 1091 or Danielle Putnam at ext. 1090
Kids’ Night Out, Parents’ Night Off! Sat, January 25, 5-9pm
Teen Snowboarding/Ski Trip to Mt High
For children 12 months and older Enjoy dinner, a movie, or a walk on the beach while we care for your child. Night includes dinner, games, stories, play, and staff supervision.
Mon, February 10
Cost per child: $25-1st, $20-2nd, $10-3rd (must be siblings) Babies under 12 months: $35; $30/MVP Call Danielle Putnam and reserve your spot (562)426-7601, ext. 1090 or email at dputnam@alpertjcc.org
Grades 6 & up Hit the slopes with the J Crew. It doesn’t matter if you’re a skier, a snowboarder, or a hot chocolate sipper, we know you’ll have a blast. Different packages available for all levels and abilities. Space extremely limited so register today! Registration closes Monday, February 3 For more info, contact Natalie Chernik
The AJCC sells movie tickets to Regal, Edwards & United Artists Theatres for only $8.50? Stop by & purchase yours today at the P.E. courtesy desk.
Coming in January
AQUATICS Sascha Bryan-Zwick, sbryanzwick@alpertjcc.org • (562) 426-7601, ext. 1035
Webby Dance Classes
Private Swim Lessons
Ages 2 ½-8yrs
One-on-one instruction for all ages with a Swim University instructor. Spots fill quickly so call today.
Hip Hop/Tumbling Classes introduce beginning rhythm/movement, dance combinations, choreography and basic tumbling and balancing skills. We provide age appropriate music and an action packed class! Children will benefit by building their memory, concentration, coordination, creativity and self-confidence, all in a positive atmosphere.
Beginning Dance Beginning tap, ballet, creative movement and tumbling. The classes incorporate over 250 choreographed dance routines, along with age appropriate music. Included in our classes are a variety of creative props such as pom poms, maracas, tambourines, leis and much more.
Visit website for more info.
Youth Swim Team with Coach Rafe Montes Mon-Thur, 5-6:30pm• Fri, 4:30-5:30pm Ages 6-14 This is a competitive swim team, so all participants must tryout and be able to swim 25 yards with all 4 swim strokes. Membership in USA Swimming is required to compete in swim meets. Swim meet participation is optional, as they have an added cost. $90; $75/MVP per month
Prep-Swim Team with Coach Rafe Montes
Intermediate Dance
4a
Fundamentals of tap, jazz and hip hop. This class will build on basic tap and jazz skills using individual instruction, across the floor techniques and choreographed routines. Musical selections include age appropriate hip hop, disco, 50’s and much more. This class builds body awareness and self-confidence. For more info. contact Linda Keiles at (562)426-7601, ext. 1092
Tue & Thur, 4:30-5:15pm Ages 5-12 The Prep Swim Team is a perfect stepping stone to the more advanced Competitive Youth Swim Team. The goal of the program is to get kids ready for a swim team, Junior Lifeguard program or water polo. $60; $45/MVP (per month)
MVP: The MVP price is the "Member Value Price" that gives our members an automatic discount to the fee we charge for our programs and events., If you’re not a member of the AJCC speak with one of our Membership Services specialists and learn how you can start benefiting from MVP pricing today.
Tevet-Shevat 5774
JANUARY 2014
JFCS
Call Today! We’re Here to Help! 3801 E. WILLOW STREET LONG BEACH, CA 90815 WEB: www.jfcslongbeach.org EMAIL: jfcs@jfcslongbeach.org PHONE: 562-427-7916
Seniors Thrive With an Active Social Life By Christina Goldman, MSW, Director of Older Adult Services
Local seniors enjoying the AJCC New Year’s Day Dance & Party
As we get older, we hold onto the hope that we can “age in place,” or stay in our longtime family home, so as to not leave our familiar and comforting surroundings. It’s a strange irony that this very fundamental desire can sometimes have a negative consequence — that of creating a lack of socialization, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness, and
even a decline in our physical well-being. Research supports the idea that older adults who feel most isolated report more symptoms of depression than those who feel socially connected. Furthermore, senior wellness programs have a positive effect, providing powerful psychological and physiological benefits to both body and mind. Boosting the immune system, improving heart function, creating a feeling of greater satisfaction and a sense of well-being are just some of the benefits of an active social life for seniors. Here at JFCS, we part-
ner with the Alpert Jewish Community Center (AJCC) to provide a myriad of activities each week for older adults in the greater Long Beach community. These activities include luncheons with entertainment, fitness classes, computer lab, bridge, tabletop gardening, and many others. The Wednesday Senior Luncheon program is one of the most popular programs at the AJCC, and it serves the dual purpose of providing a social networking outlet and a nutritious meal. An added benefit is the attendance of a case manager who can note opportunities to offer special assistance to those who may
need additional services and referral. These programs have become a lifeline for seniors, often the one safe place they can count on for friendship and fellowship. For the past three years, the Archstone Foundation has provided our partnership with the necessary funding to operate these programs, and we are hopeful that our relationship will continue into the future. Another way that JFCS enhances the social lives of seniors is through our Friendly Visitors program. Volunteers visit seniors who, due to poor health, mobility challenges, or cognitive impairment,
cannot participate regularly in activities outside of their homes. Although the purpose of the visit is primarily social, the volunteers can also bring any concerns to the attention of our case managers, and additional assistance can be provided as is appropriate. Grants, such as the one from the Archstone Foundation and generous donations from so many in the greater Long Beach community, have a palpable impact on the lives of older adults through JFCS. I know that I speak for all of them when I express my gratitude for your help in improving their quality of life.
sounds and a dazzling display of beautifully preserved classic cars. The end result is 1700 boxes of food distributed to 25 different charities by over 100 volunteers, including Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Explorer Scouts, the Long Beach Model T Club, Long Beach Police Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, to name a few. Thanks to Joyce and Hank for their generosity, en-
ergy, and creativity in making the holiday season brighter for those less fortunate.
Annual Food Drive Helps Those in Need Greater Long Beach & West Orange County, for donating boxes of groceries and gift cards to families in need of food during the Thanksgiving/ Chanukah holiday season. What began 16 years ago, as a joint project between a Cub Scout troop and Performance Plus Tire Joyce & Hank Feldman, owners of Performance Plus Tire & Automotive, stand & Automotive to feed 10 among the hundreds of boxes of food from their annual food drive families, has evolved into a The JFCS Board of Direc- Member Joyce Feldman full-blown assembly line of tors and staff would like to and husband Hank, President volunteers, working in a parshow our appreciation to Board of the Jewish Federation of ty atmosphere of rock ‘n roll
SAVE THE DATE!
RACE WITH A VIEW May 18, 2014 Call Pattie Davidson at X235 for sponsorship information
OUR MISSION: Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Long Beach/West Orange County is a nonprofit agency that provides a wide range of professional counseling and support services to assist all individuals regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation in facing life’s challenges.
Are things a little MESHUGA right now? I work with individuals and couples privately to find a way to more shalom (peace).
(562) 477-2530 Let’s get started right away! Gail Desilets, M.A., M.S. Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist 3780 Kilroy Airport Way, Suite 200 Long Beach, CA 90806 Visit my web site at www.GailDesilets.com for more details.
ADVERTISE IN THE CHRONICLE THE VOICE OF THE JEWISH COMMUNITY
FEBRUARY · Camp MARCH· Purim APRIL · Passover
UPC OM ISSU ING ES
REACH OVER 40,000 PEOPLE! Contact Khatera for more info. chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org 562-426-7601 x1006
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 9
HILLEL AT CSULB
FOR MORE INFORMATION: WEB: www.beachhillel.org EMAIL: info@beachhillel.org PHONE: 562-426-7601 ext 1424
We Enrich Jewish Students So That They May Enrich the World
Zach Katona at last year’s Legacy of Leadership
Bryon Gillis playing on the Hebrew Hammers
The Jewish student population’s involvement at Beach Hillel’s campuses are not only important to us for our work, but also important to the Long Beach Jewish Community, and the Jewish community around
the world. To enrich the lives of Jewish college students, so that they may go forth into the world with a strong Jewish identity post-college, is a pinnacle part of our goals. This semester, two students who have been heavily involved and dedicated to Beach Hillel will have the honor of receiving their degree, embarking on their own Jewish journey with the meaningful experiences that Hillel has provided for them over the past years. Zach Katona has been a student at Beach Hillel throughout his undergraduate career at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). Zach feels that Beach Hillel has served as his foundation over the past years, providing him with a home away from home to which he could always join. “This is where I met many of my friends. It is because of Beach Hillel that I joined the fraternity that I am in right now
Monstrous Competition
10th Annual Monster Menorah competition winner
Beach Hillel held its 10th Annual Monster Menorah competition this year for CSULB students. Monster Menorah is a competitive menorah-making event that Beach Hillel hosts every year, where students are encouraged to creatively put together a Menorah from scratch and enter it into our contest to win a $200 prize.
This event is available to all students at CSULB and helps raise awareness of the holiday of Chanukah. Students from all across campus life, both Jews and gentiles, entered the competition with menorahs made from wrenches, Barbie dolls, pasta, and more.
(AEPi). I’ve always felt accepted at Beach Hillel, to the point that it has become my family here at CSULB,” stated Zach. In April 2013, Beach Hillel organized a firefighter lunch where students helped cook a lunch for the firefighters of Long Beach in appreciation of their service to the community. Zach was instrumental in organizing the event and helped encourage other students to participate. This type of tzedekah work is what Zach looks forward to continuing in the future. Zach will continue honoring his Jewish identity by fulfilling more mitzvahs and doing the most he can for communities around him. “Beach Hillel has provided me with some great experiences, both religiously and socially,” he said. Zach’s favorite events by far have included both the annual Sukkah Hop and the annual Jewlicious Festival. He hopes that these types of events will continue into the future to en-
rich the undergraduate careers of other CSULB Jewish students. Some students have involved themselves with Beach Hillel further into their undergraduate years. Bryon Gillis, a student at CSULB for nine semesters, became involved with Beach Hillel as a junior in college. “Beach Hillel’s presence on campus has given me a place to meet and converse with other Jewish students,” said Bryon. “It helped me build a network of students that I regularly see throughout campus, and even broadened that network outside of campus by taking me to Northern California and involving me in leadership dinners.” Bryon says that his Jewish identity was weaker. While raised as culturally Jewish, there was not a strong religious connection to Shabbat dinner, the different holidays, and Israel. “I learned so
much about Shabbat at Beach Hillel’s weekly Shabbat dinners held at Rabbi Drew and Rachel’s house. Even the Birthright Israel trip was great in providing me with a stronger connection to Judaism and Israel. I even have a kippa now,” he said. While Bryon is unsure of how he will connect with his Jewish identity in the future, he is looking forward to continue attending Shabbat dinners, becoming involved with a Moishe House, and keeping in touch with Rabbi Drew to maintain a young adult Jewish network. Thank you to both Zach and Bryon for not only learning from us at Beach Hillel, but for teaching us how we can work to continue our efforts in enriching the lives of young Jewish students in Long Beach! Congratulations on your graduation from CSULB. We look forward to hearing of your great success in the future.
“I’m amazed with the students’ creativity! It was great to see the students come together, as the fraternities and sororities did, and enter a menorah as one. It really feels like the spirit of the holiday is in the air here at CSULB,” said Beach Hillel’s Programming Associate, Jonathan Grunin.
Beach Hillel hosted a table on campus on December 4th where the menorahs were displayed and students were encouraged to vote for their favorite. After the ballots were collected, the victor was announced at The Nugget, CSULB’s on campus Grill and Pub. This year’s victor
was the Barbie Menorah, made by Shoshanna Cerritos and Marisa Holt. “This was such a fun thing to do and I’m so happy that I was a part of it,” said Cerritos. “I’m even happier that my menorah was the one that won. I can’t wait to see what happens next year.”
10 | JEWISH COMMUNITY CHRONICLE | TEVET-SHEVAT | 5774
D A N I E L M AT H I E U
PERSONAL INSURANCE ADVISOR
The Next Generation Insurance Agency
Office: 10805 Holder Street, Suite 350 Cypress, CA 90630 Mail Address: P.O. Box 6026, Cypress, CA 90630 Direct: 714.733.6284 • Cell: 310.462.1315 DMathieu@Bowermaster.com CA License No. 0D79613 Alpert JCC Board Member
HEBREW ACADEMY
Award Winning Academics in a Genuine Jewish Environment 14401 WILLOW LANE HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA 92647 WEB: www.hebrewacademyhb.com PHONE: 714-898-0051 CAMP SILVER GAN ISRAEL: www.campsgi.com
Cool Pool News
Grandparents Beam with Pride during Tu B’Shevat Hebrew Academy will be having our 10th Annual Grandparents’ Day on January 16. Grandparents’ Day was designed to strengthen the bond between different generations while giving the students’ family members a firsthand look at the strong and engaging education that occurs at our school. On this special day, we wish to show our appreciation of our elders and the important role they play in providing the continuity, tra-
ditions and history that our children must know and experience in order to become knowledgeable Jews and young adults. Academically, we create a curriculum and an atmosphere in which children can understand who they are and their rich heritage. We realize how inter-generational ties and traditions are a vital part of Jewish education and Grandparents’ Day exemplifies one way in which we support and recognize
the importance of this. Should anyone wish to “adopt” a student for the day, we would be happy to provide transportation to and from our school. The event includes lunch and tree planting. Please contact Nicole Levy-Gray at nlevygray@ hacds.org or 714-898-0051 to reserve your spot for this exciting event and make a young Jewish child happy.
Kindergarten student, Sheli Hattendorf, stands over her fellow classmates as they look at the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) helicopter that landed on the grass field of the Hebrew Academy on Tuesday, December 3rd. As part of the school’s Chanukah celebration, LAPD officers gave children a chance to meet and ask the officers questions. The helicopter landing also kicked off a month of the LAPD teaching Hebrew Academy 5th graders the basics of aeronautics. Photo by Anibal Ortiz, Orange County Register
Kindergarteners & Fifth Graders Develop Ties That Bind
Once a week, for 45 minutes, the Hebrew Academy pairs our kindergarteners with the fifth graders for a Buddy program. The program consists of a variety of learning activities that give the students a chance to teach and learn from each other. For example, our fifth
graders, who are practicing their reading and presentation skills, may read to their kinder-buddies. Or, our kinder-kids may sing a song about math to their big buddies to further solidify the math concept in their minds. The experience provides children with stimulating opportunities for
Hadassah Super Bowl Lox Box Super Bowl Sunday is February 2, 2014, and what better way to enjoy it than with a Sharon-Carmel Hadassah Lox Box. Order one now to be delivered on February 2nd anywhere in the Greater Long Beach Area for $25 each (or $20 for a nosh box, which doesn’t include the lox). Each lox box includes 6 bagels, 6 oz of lox, 8 oz of cream cheese, 4 delicious Danish, a tomato and an onion. What a great way to start your day and support Hadassah at
the same time! If you have any questions, please contact our Lox Box Co-Chairs, Phyllis Wallis at 562-598-6328, or Doreen Shuldiner at 562-5962949; or simply mail a check made payable to Hadassah to Doreen Shuldiner, 3286 Julian Ave., Long Beach, 90808, by no later than January 27, 2014. Gift Certificates are also available. Discover why everyone looks forward to this annual treat!
learning and skill development. The younger students especially enjoy the one-onone attention they receive from their older buddies. In addition, teachers have reported that participation in buddy programs enhances children’s cooperative learning behaviors such as taking turns, listening, sharing knowledge, praising another’s effort, helping one another and completing a task. Due to the extra attention and assistance, the younger children’s work often improves.
Also, as the older students assume the role of “teacher,” they are motivated to do their best and be good role models. The “teachers” also develop pride in their ability to be helpful as they form strong relationships with their little buddies. These friendships flourish over the years and become one of the many reasons our alumni come back to the school and continue to participate in supporting The Hebrew Academy in their adult lives.
The Hebrew Academy is pleased to announce that we are fully winterizing our swimming pool. Our facility design offers a six-lane, 25-yard pool, a smaller enclosed teaching pool and locker rooms. Both pools provide sun protection and are heated to a comfortable temperature to support all ages and stages during their swim classes, wellness programs and community activities. With the beautiful enclosed tent, we are able to provide year-round swim events and opportunities for our students. Through the company, Waterworks, community members are able to sign up for swim lessons as well. If you are interested in receiving a tour of the school to consider sending your children to an award-winning, PK – 12th grade Jewish Day School, contact Alex Greenberg at agreenberg@hacds.org or 714-898-0051. Spaces in each class are limited, and enrollment season is NOW; don’t wait until it’s too late.
NCJW Sets Major January Programs
groundbreaking investigation into one of America’s most disturbing secrets - the epidemic of rape within the U.S. military - is a moving examination of the personal and societal costs of these assaults, which urges us all to fight for David M. Kipen a system that protects our men and women in uniform. NCJW Long Beach Sec- On Tuesday, January 21 tion will hold a free screening at 10:30 am, at The Grand, of the acclaimed documen- the annual NCJW-Hadassah tary The Invisible War on Shirley Stein Book Review Sunday, January 12 at 9:45 Luncheon will feature David am, at the Alpert JCC. This M. Kipen, owner/founder of
Libros Schmibros, a lending library/used bookstore in Boyle Heights, former book critic for the San Francisco Chronicle and former Director of Literature for the National Endowment for the Arts. Kipen will review The Tin Horse: A Novel, by Janice Steinberg, and Kipen’s own The Schreiber Theory: A Radical Rewrite of American Film History. Cost for the luncheon is $28, send a check made out to NCJW to Judith Leff by January 13.
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 11
COMMUNITY
Poland/Israel 2013: Remembrance and Celebration In November 2013, almost thirty of our community members journeyed to Poland and Israel on a trip that was sponsored together by the Alpert Jewish Community Center and the Jewish Federation of Greater Long Beach and West Orange County. The trip was rich, diverse and full of amazing experiences, and we plan to offer another trip within the next few years. In Poland, we traced the path of the richness of Jewish life in Poland before the war, mourned together at the death camps, celebrated the resurgence of Jewish life at the JCC in Krakow and saw the brand new Museum of Jewish History in Warsaw. In Israel, we prayed together at the Kotel, floated in the Dead Sea, met with world leaders at the General Assembly, learned about the complexities of contemporary life in Israel, journeyed back in time in Jerusalem,
Photo taken at the new Museum of Jewish History in Warsaw
and explored the beauty of the Galilee and the Golan and much more. The trip left a great impression on many of our community participants. “Our trip to Poland and Israel was so overwhelming that it is impossible to describe in just a few
sentences. The tragedy of the Holocaust must be witnessed and never forgotten. The trip helped us put into perspective that it was the Nazis, not the Polish people, who perpetrated these horrific murders. When we arrived in Israel, we saw a country
12 | JEWISH COMMUNITY CHRONICLE | TEVET-SHEVAT | 5774
that takes in Jews at risk from throughout the world. Also, things are changing with religious diversity in Israel. For instance, there is now an area of the Western Wall where men and women can pray together. The trip was so memorable and meaningful, that
we look forward to returning,” stated Linda & Sanford Simmons, trip co-chairs. “It was an amazing experience, made richer by being able to share it with old and new friends in our Jewish Community. As a group, we laughed, we cried and we learned, but mostly we laughed,” shared Dan and Nicole Honigman, trip cochairs. This trip was just the beginning of our community’s vision of connecting people to our history and heritage in both Israel and other countries. If you would like to be placed on an interest list for upcoming trips, or if you would like to have a presentation from members of our group about the Poland/ Israel experience, please email Susan Paletz at spaletz@alpert jcc.org or Sharon Kenigsberg at sharonk@ jewishlongbeach.org.
By Steven T. Forman, MD, FACC, FSCAI, RVT
Steven T. Forman
What does it mean to be 50 or 60 or even 90 years old? Everyone will have his or her own answer to this question. As Mark Twain so aptly said, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” During my 20 years as a practicing physician, I have cared for patients ranging in age from teenagers to centenarians, and what seems most clear to me is that the number of years you have lived does not define the age that you feel or act. I have seen 90-year-olds who move and act as if they are 50 and 50-year-olds who move and act as if they are ninety. What is the difference? Why are some people so viable at advanced ages, while others deteriorate so rapidly? There is no simple answer to this question, but a key ingre-
dient is how you spend your time as you age. An undriven car will age more rapidly than a car that is used and maintained. The same is true for a human being. A sedentary person will age much faster than an active person, physically, mentally and emotionally. Alan Bleasdale, an English television dramatist, stated, “To resist the frigidity of old age, one must combine the body, the mind and the heart. And to keep these in parallel vigor one must exercise, study and love.” The truth in his words should be seized and acted upon by everyone. Regular exercise has been shown in multiple studies to improve physical and mental ability with age. Exercise lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol, decreases diabetes and reduces mental stress; all of which lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in October 2002 showed that physically frail elderly people who followed a physical therapy program had a 45 percent reduction in disability after seven months.
Exercise also spurs development of new nerve cells and increases connections between brain cells. A study at the University of Pittsburgh revealed that exercise improved the thinking speed of previously sedentary people in their eighties. Current recommendations, as stated in the U.S. Department of Health Physical Activity Guidelines, are for all adults to avoid inactivity. Adults should do no less than about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise weekly and muscle strengthening activities at least two days a week. Research has also demonstrated that brainy activities, such as word puzzles and math problems, stimulate new connections between nerve cells and may even generate new cells. A study presented at the Radiological Society of
North America in November 2012 established that mental activities, like reading and writing, could preserve the structural integrity of the brain. In addition to physical and mental activities, strong social ties have been associated with lower blood pressure and longer life expectancy. In a study conducted over a 9-year period and published in 1979, Lisa Berkman showed that people with strong ties were three times less likely to die than those who had limited interpersonal contact. The type of social tie was not relevant. It could be family, friends or community attachments. Perhaps the answer to staying young is not so complicated, and we do not need to find the proverbial Fountain of Youth. The magic elixir re-
quires the proper mix of physical activity, mental activity and human contact. About the Author
Dr. Forman is board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease, interventional cardiology and venous and lymphatic medicine. Dr. Forman is a managing partner of Los Alamitos Cardiovascular and director of Performance Vein Institute of Los Alamitos. He is currently Vice Chief of Staff at Los Alamitos Medical Center and will assume the Chief of Staff post in January. Learn more about your cardiovascular health, Dr. Forman and the other cardiologists at Los Alamitos Cardiovascular by visiting www. losalcardio.com.
Aging Comfortably at Home Referral Home Health Agency with Supervised & Experienced Caregivers, CNAs, LVNs, HHAs License #BU21330340
We are just a phone away! (805) 754-6239 (714) 697-9233 Providing Quality Caregiving Services With Compassionate, Loving, Sincere & Dedicated Caregivers
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 13
COMMUNITY
Finding the Fountain of Youth
TRIBUTES & ANNOUNCEMENTS
P ROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY ATTORNEYS
Lawrence H. Nemirow, ESQ
PEDIATRICS
Business Law, Insurance Law, Trusts and Estates 5242 Katella Ave., Suite 104 Los Alamitos, CA 90720
(562) 799-1379
Web Site: www.nemlawyer.com
C.P.A.’S Shari D. Nemirow, C.P.A.
Small Business accounting & income taxes for Corporations, Partnerships, Individuals 5242 Katella, #104, Los Alamitos
(562) 430-8231
Pamela Schulman-Flores, C.P.A.
Master of Science-Taxation, Tax Returns-all types, tax planning & audits Downey
(562) 803-5324
ELECTRICAL H & H ELECTRICAL
Quality Without Compromise Residential & Commercial Lic. # 309934 Since 1975
(562) 494-3057
PODIATRY Eric R. Hubbard, D.PM, F.A.C.F.S.
Board Certified-Foot & Ankle Surgery Adult’s and Children’s Foot Disorders Athletic Injuries-Custom Orthotics 2333 Pacific Ave., Long Beach
Tributes
Send a special gift to honor, memorialize, or congratulate friends & family for all occasions. We will send a card on your behalf.
Jewish Federation
GENERAL FUND •To Trudy Dubovy, in memory of your beloved husband Les, from the Jewish Federation Board, Leadership & Staff •To Sadie Sacks, thinking of you & sending warm wishes, get well soon, from the Jewish Federation Board, Leadership & Staff •To Norman Kaplan, thank you, from Sanford Simmons •To Emma Harrison, happy 102nd birthday, from Janet Stephanie & David Rydell Jewish Federation and Jewish Community Foundation tributes: 562-426-7601 EXT 1314
Brodsky Orthodontics (562) 496-2000
www.drbrodskysmile.com
(562) 426-5151 (562) 427-7443
YOUR AD HERE
Add your listing to our Professional Directory Call Khatera 562-426-7601 EXT 1006 for more information
Lee & Barbara Shoag Residential & Income Over 1,400 Happy Buyers & Sellers since 1981
(562) 400-8124 www.ShoagRealEstate.com
of her husband Alfred, from Jessie Butler AJCC tributes: 562-426-7601 EXT 1414
JFCS
GENERAL FUND •To Shad Cavoulas, in memory of Mary Bizzigoti, from Melinda & Scott Koppel •In memory of Harry Oster, from Susy Oster •To Jack Berro, in honor of his receiving the F&M Bank PAULA BLUM “Cornerstone You Can Bank SENIOR ADULT FUND •To John Vanderpool & On” Award, from Michele family, in memory of Michelle Berro, Aaron, Britney, Nathan, Vanderpool, from the Knit Wits & Miriam •To Susan Mathieu, on the •To Nancy & Mark Schneider, occasion of her Amazing in memory of Mark’s brother Woman honors, from Inga Jimmy & mother Helen, from Dr. Robert & Ronni Kaplan Freshman MICHAEL SEGAL MERVIN N. GLOW FUND AJCC MAIMONIDES FUND •In memory of Mervin Glow, GENERAL FUND •To Mirtha Walsh, in memory from Carol Glow •To the Lane family, in memory of her sister Diana, from Jessie of Isabel, from Jay Leff & Esther Butler Albert •To Leah Stein, in memory Continued next page
ORTHODONTICS Braces & Invisilign™ for all ages 5920 Del Amo Blvd., Lakewood
•To Peggy Evans, in memory of her sister Isabel, from Jay Leff & Esther Albert •To Bea Aron, best wishes on your special birthday, from Jay Leff & Esther Albert •To Nancy & Mark Schneider, in memory of your brother Jimmy Schneider, from Jay Leff & Esther Albert •To the Seretan Family, in memory of Marion Seretan, from Les Campbell
Rated ‘Highest’ in quality service by our customers.
Honors & Simchahs & Matthew Davis, on your
Nov. 29 marriage at Temple Israel. Here’s wishing & •Happy Belated Birthday to congratulating both of you on Jeffrey Rips, Linda Calderón, the special day of your lives. Bob Rips & Barbara Alpert May you have a lifetime of • Mazel Tov, to Mark Dressner love, harmony & happiness. From the Jewish Federation Board, Leadership & Staff
14 | JEWISH COMMUNITY CHRONICLE | TEVET-SHEVAT | 5774
Rev. James Lawson, Jr. with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The California Conference for Equality and Justice (CCEJ) is thrilled to announce that Rev. James Lawson Jr., prominent leader of the civil rights movement and one of the central architects of the non-violence movement in the United States, will bring his message of non-violence and equal rights to CCEJ’s 23rd Annual Interfaith/Intercultural Breakfast. On the eve of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination, he called Lawson “the leading theorist and strategist of nonviolence in the world.”
Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, the event will be held on Tuesday, February 11, starting from 6:45 am, at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach. Hosted by CCEJ, the breakfast incorporates the traditions of several religious and cultural groups that contribute to the ethnic and spiritual mosaic of the community. Benefactors Gene and Ann Lentzner began their perpetual gift ten years ago helping to underwrite all future CCEJ Interfaith/Intercultural Breakfasts. Make your reservation by February 4th by calling 562-435-8184 or visit www. cacej.org for more information. Tickets start at $40, limited seating available.
We Mourn The Loss Of... Les Dubovy Bernice “Bunny” Feinstein Jimmy Schneider Please contact us at chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org if you know of someone who has passed and would like them to be recognized.
MARCIE BALAN BLAKEY FUND HOWARD & AVA WEISS •From Bruce Balan, to wish a Happy Belated Chanukah to, OLDER ADULT FUND •To Nancy & Mark Schneider, Paul, Marie, Loren & Shana with heartfelt condolences on Brindze; Doug, Pseu, & Sammy your recent loss, from Binnie & Blakey; Karen Kirchner & Charles Blakey; John, Kitty, Jack Berro
TRIBUTES Continued
Kyle, & Shawn Eastman; Karen & Lorry Frankel; Lee Balan; Sandy & Jerry Horwitz; Julie & Arnie Goodman; Barbara & Art Miller; and Gerda & Harold Seifer JFCS tributes: 562-426-7601 EXT 235 or 562-427-7916
IT’S ABOÜT TIME! What Makes MOBÜL So Special… • A bright, clean, open, and airy environment with the largest selection of products around.
• Four rooms built in the store for product demonstrations. You can try before you buy!
• Free “White Glove” delivery, so you can shop
•A knowledgeable, friendly and caring staff. • Free consumer education though our very own MOBÜL University.
• Scooter, lift chair, wheelchair, and transport chair rentals!
and take it home today.
Lift Chairs | Scooters | Manual & Power Wheelchairs | Walkers & Rolling Walkers | Ramps & Lifts for Scooters Bath Safety | Cushioning and Pillows | Orthopedics | Compression stockings | Medical Supplies Physical Therapy | Fitness
Owned by Wayne Slavitt Located Next To Hof’s Hut 2153 N. Bellflower Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90815 | (562) 343-7333 | mobulstore.com
tem p l e i sr a e l lo n g b e ac h
Join Us for oUr shabbat services
Friday Evening Services conducted by Rabbi Steven Moskowitz, Cantor Finnley, and organist, David York. Saturday Morning Services and Torah Study conducted by Rabbi Moskowitz. Friday, January 3 7:00 p.m. Family Shabbat Service Saturday, January 4 8:45 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Sabbath Fellowship Friday, January 10 6:00 p.m. Ruach Shabbat Saturday, January 11 8:45 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Friday, January 17 6:00 p.m. Tot Shabbat 7:00 p.m. Shabbat Evening Service Saturday, January 18 8:45 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Friday, January 31 7:00 p.m. Shabbat Evening Service Saturday, February 1 8:45 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Sabbath Fellowship
Friday, January 24 6:00 p.m. Shabbat Evening Service Saturday, January 25 8:45 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Temple Israel • 269 Loma Avenue • Long Beach, CA 90803 • 562.434.0996 • www.tilb.org
www.jewishlongbeach.org | JANUARY 2014 | 15
COMMUNITY
Commemorating the Civil Rights Act
The Jewish Federation of Greater Long Beach & West Orange County 3801 E. Willow St., Long Beach, CA 90815
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16 | JEWISH COMMUNITY CHRONICLE | TEVET-SHEVAT | 5774