Issuu

TEMPLE TUNE

Temple Chai celebrates 50 years by receiving its own

REAL ESTATE LAW

Three years in, Gottlieb Law builds a reputation through collaboration

‘Rise Up’: Women’s Seder brings faiths together around the Passover table

On Sunday, March 23, Temple Solel in Paradise Valley hosted its annual Women’s Passover Seder. At Helene Weitzenkorn’s table, set with matzah, Miriam’s cup and the seder plate, Jewish women were joined by Christian and Muslim guests.

The guests were part of the Daughters of Abraham Women’s Interfaith Book Group, which was founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in response to the events of Sept. 11, 2001, by and for women of the three Abrahamic faiths — Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Weitzenkorn started the local chapter a few years ago after being involved in an interfaith conference in downtown Phoenix. She joined the group when she lived in Boston, and is still a member, participating in meetings over Zoom.

“I thought, if I’m ever going to start a chapter here, this is the time, because we have people from all faith traditions,” she said. “So that’s what I did, and it’s worked out beyond my dreams.”

Since the group has participants from across the Valley, they also meet on Zoom. In addition to being a book club, Weitzenkorn had the idea that each faith should host an in-person event. She started by inviting people into her sukkah for Sukkot, and it’s grown from there.

The group’s interfaith celebrations have included a nun’s Golden Jubilee, a traditional Latinx Christmas celebration, Las Posadas, commemorating Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, and an Iftar, the meal at sundown used by Muslims to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Over 200 volunteers participate in CJP’s citywide Mitzvah Day

JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER

The Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix (CJP) hosted its annual Mitzvah Day on Sunday, April 12, gathering more than 200 volunteers to make a difference in their community.

With unique, hands-on service activities at 15 locations spread across the Valley, volunteers chose from family-friendly mitzvot to support the work of Jewish organizations that make a difference every day for anyone in need.

“Mitzvah Day, led by CJP, is a community-wide day of service rooted in tikkun olam,” said Marcy Lewis,

director of family and volunteer engagement at CJP. “It provides meaningful, hands-on volunteer opportunities that bring people together to give back and support local organizations. For the community, it’s a chance to connect, make an impact and strengthen relationships. For CJP, it reflects a commitment to building a culture of service, engagement and collective responsibility.”

Among the partner organizations hosting volunteer opportunities were Temple Emanuel of Tempe, Scottsdale’s Congregation Or Tzion and Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary in Scottsdale. SEE MITZVAH, PAGE 3

Help with the cost of camp

Camp Ramah in California launches a tuition subsidy to help families of Jewish day school educators. See page 13.

Seda Ozbek-Damar hosted Iftar and has been with the group for about a year. “I like to be able to talk about religion openly and hear about

SEE SEDER, PAGE 2

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALISON FEINBERG

Mitzvah Day volunteers at Templ Kol Ami in Scottsdale made birthday bags for children in foster care.

others’ religions,” she said. A Turkish Muslim, she attends the Sema Foundation in Chandler for worship and community.

Temple Solel Associate Rabbi Debbie Stiel began the Seder by acknowledging the guests and said she would explain things as she went along for those who were attending for the first time.

She explained that women’s Seders began in the 1970s as part of the Jewish feminist movement when women noticed they were missing from the Haggadah that tells the story of Passover.

“The women were very involved in the Exodus story. It would not have happened without the women, as we will see today,” she said.

January 6

January 20

January

February 3

said Jon Meyers, director of ADDPC.

“Our hope is to create and promote opportunities for people to be embraced, become part of the community and find equitable opportunities wherever they

Meyers first came to know Stern through her mother, Amy Silverman, who read her personal essays about raising a daughter with Down syndrome on KJZZ, National Public Radio’s Phoenix affiliate station.

Another ritual invited attendees to reflect on what they wished to release before Passover.

Meyers was so captivated by the essays that he reached out to Silverman, and the two became friends.

about her Judaism with her fellow council members and speaking out for her rights

She already has some practice at

about her Judaism with her fellow council members and speaking out for her rights

“One time, I was in class and someone called me the R-word and I told him not to. The teacher was in the hallway and another student repeated the word,” she said. Rather than letting the situation go, she told her theater teacher, who was able to intervene.

She already has some practice at

“If someone has a disability, saying the R-word is like saying the F-word,” Stern said.

that you have to open because it relates to this.”

“If someone has a disability, saying the R-word is like saying the F-word,” Stern said.

2026

This year’s theme, “Rise Up,” was present with balloons on the tables and a different prompt on the centerpiece, encouraging participants to reflect on gratitude, responsibility and action in the present moment.

January

February 17

August 25

September 1

“Just like we’re supposed to get rid of our puffed-up food,” Stiel said, referring to chametz, “we should also try to get rid of whatever in us is puffed up — maybe some anger or some resentment — whatever it is that’s just not serving us well.”

Meyers was so captivated by the essays that he reached out to Silverman, and the two became friends.

That’s how Stern first learned of the open council seat, but there’s no doubt she earned her position, Meyers said.

To become a council member, Stern had to apply and demonstrate that she had something valuable to contribute, he said.

The gift was a ceramic jug and Weitzenkorn explained its meaning. “I’ve always been very critical of Miriam’s cup at the Seder because no woman is ever going to go to a well with a crystal or silver goblet. They’re going to go with a jug because women are practical.”

While performing in the musical “Hairspray,” she had another occasion to tangle with the offensive word, which appears in the script.

“That’s really bad and my friend said it on stage. I was not OK with that, so I went to the director and told her it was a bad word for people with disabilities, but she wouldn’t take it out,” Stern said.

September 8

March 10

February 3

It was also the name of a song written by Temple Solel Cantorial Soloist Todd Herzog and performed by Tamara Lieberman, who sang and played guitar during the event.

March 24

February 17

March 10

March 31

March 24

April 7

March 31

April 21

April 7

May 5

April 21

May 19

May 5

June 9

May 19

July 14

June 9

August 4

July 14

August 18*

August 4

1 September 8 September 15

September 15

October 6

October 13** October 20

The familiar structure of the Seder remained, but with creative reinterpretations. The traditional “four sons” became “four daughters,” and throughout the afternoon, figures such as Shifra and Puah, Yocheved, Miriam and Pharaoh’s daughter and matriarchs Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah were highlighted.

13**

November 3

November 10

Participants also named modern “plagues” affecting the world today, including war, climate change, antisemitism, hunger, hate and mental illness.

August 18* August 25

November 17

3 November 10

December 1

November 17

December 15

“The word Haggadah means telling,” Stiel said. “On Pesach, we are commanded to speak. We must tell our own stories. This Seder is about giving voice to our experiences and embracing our rich heritage as Jewish women, crafting new rituals and creating a joyful and supportive space for one another.”

“She’s on the council because she deserves to be on the council,” he said.

To become a council member, Stern had to apply and demonstrate that she had something valuable to contribute, he said.

“Even in the midst of celebrations,” Stiel said, “we must pause to reflect on the diminished joy that comes from an imperfect world.”

Stern is creating a life and career as a member of her community, which makes her a great addition.

“She’s on the council because she deserves to be on the council,” he said. Stern is creating a life and career as a member of her community, which makes her a great addition.

Girls and teens then performed a short play based on the Exodus and afterward, Stiel invited their mothers, grandmothers, aunts and cousins to join them for a blessing.

Then, Stiel encouraged everyone to grab tambourines and form a line, weaving throughout the tables as Lieberman sang “Miriam’s Song.”

Stern graduated from McClintock High School in Tempe last year and now attends Glendale Community College, with a focus on dance. She is a regular performer at Detour Company Theatre, a Scottsdale theatre company for adults with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities.

After Stiel thanked everyone for the gift, she continued on with the service, going through some of the items on the Seder plate, finishing with the horseradish and instructing all to place some on the matzah with a bit of haroset, “to mix the bitter and the sweet.”

She let her mother know about the conflict and they were able to convince the director of the need to remove the word from the script.

As participants dined on gefilte fish, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, hummus, fruits and vegetables, all the religions at the table discussed the Seder to this point.

“My friend Al was next to me when I told the director and he gave me the biggest hug ever and said that he loved me so much,” Stern said. Sadly, Al died in a car crash on Oct. 24, 2021.

Heart Can’t Even Believe It: A Story of Science, Love and Down Syndrome,” Silverman’s book about her daughter. When Gesher’s speakers’ bureau, Damon Brooks & Associates, was asked to find a speaker about Down syndrome for an event this spring, Hummell first asked Silverman to speak, thinking Stern might be too young.

11*

In fact, when Stern attended her first council meeting in January, she couldn’t wait to tell people of her involvement with Detour and share information about its upcoming shows.

of Magazine

When the group settled back into their seats, Weitzenkorn presented the rabbi with a gift from the temple’s sisterhood for her upcoming retirement.

Temple Chai marks 50th anniversary with a new congregational song

MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

Temple Chai’s yearlong celebration of its 50th anniversary began in a way that is very comfortable for this congregation — with song.

During a special Shabbat Shira weekend, the “Sabbath of Song” in early 2026, Jewish songwriter Michael Hunter Ochs visited the Phoenix congregation for a series of musical programs, culminating in a Saturday evening concert featuring a piece Ochs wrote especially for Temple Chai’s milestone year. Ochs is the composer in residence for the East End Temple in New York and Congregation Micah in Nashville.

The new composition, “Esa Einei,” inspired by Psalm 121, is intended to become part of the congregation’s regular musical repertoire.

“We are a singing congregation,” said Rabbi Emily Segal as she welcomed attendees to the Saturday evening concert. “We love music. We love new music as well as the old usuals. And it is so thrilling that yesterday evening we had the chance to experience for the first time the special

song that Michael Hunter Ochs wrote for us in honor of our 50th anniversary.”

Founded in 1976, Temple Chai is marking five decades of community in 2026. Bringing Ochs to Phoenix helped launch the celebration with what Segal described as “a very special weekend of music and of song.” The temple will hold another weekend of celebration April 24-25 with a Shabbaton featuring past clergy, including Rabbi Mari Chernow, Cantor Ross Wolman and others.

Throughout the concert, Ochs also performed music from “The Song Diary,” joined by Temple Chai Cantor Tanya Greenblatt, Beth El Phoenix Cantor Sarah Bollt and Cantorial Soloist Todd Herzog. Ochs is a versatile composer and got his start writing gospel music. His song “In Her Eyes” was recorded by internationally known singer and actor Josh Groban. His song “On My Knees,” performed by Jaci Velasquez, was awarded Song of the Year honors from both the Gospel Music Association and the Nashville Songwriters Association International.

We are in your neighborhood and have room in our schedule for you. We have been designing, building and maintaining yards in the Valley for 30 years.

13608 N Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85022 ROC: 293769, 302509

Brad’s Kitchen is catering made easy with service you can trust. Our food is delicious with unmatched

Taste the difference for yourself. Kosher catering for all occasions.

Ochs shared a story about when he was writing “In Her Eyes” for Groban.

“His (Josh’s) girlfriend, who is a big movie star, didn’t like one word in the song, the word ‘angel,’ which was in the chorus, so it comes up a few times,” he said. “So, I was sitting in Waffle House until four o’clock in the morning for days on end. I sent them 200 options, but you can’t just change one word to another without it affecting the whole song.” He was starting to worry that the outcome of this song might have a lasting impact on his career, and then he got a phone call with some good news. “They broke up.” So, the word angel remained in the lyrics.

Alan Zeichick, a Temple Chai congregant who helped arrange Ochs’ visit with his wife, Carole, first encountered the musician while attending a Shabbat Shira celebration at Peninsula Temple Sholom in Burlingame, California.

“We’d never heard of him,” Zeichick said. “But after the concert, I went up to him and said, ‘Hi, I need to bring you to Phoenix.’”

Zeichick said Ochs’ ability to connect audiences to the music immediately stood out.

“Sometimes musicians are very good performers but not great storytellers,” he said. “He really connects.”

After confirming Ochs’ availability for the following year’s Shabbat Shira weekend, Zeichick worked with Temple Chai clergy and staff to coordinate the visit and commission a new song marking the congregation’s anniversary.

The result was a multi-day residency that included Friday night Shabbat services with the choir, a Saturday evening concert and a Sunday session exploring the music theory and songwriting process behind “Esa Einei.”

The anniversary piece draws inspiration from Psalm 121 — “I lift my eyes to the mountains” — but is not a literal setting of the text. Instead, Ochs crafted a lyrical interpretation designed for congregational singing.

According to Zeichick, the composer collaborated closely with Greenblatt

as they shaped both the words and the melody. “He worked with Cantor Greenblatt and they bounced ideas back and forth off of each other.”

Even musical details carried symbolic meaning. In one example, Zeichick noted, the final sustained note was designed to echo the sound of a shofar blast.

The congregation quickly embraced the new piece.

“We wanted that song to be something that would really be part of our standards, our repertoire,” Segal said. “After singing it together yesterday evening, I’m now convinced it will be just that.”

“By the time you’re through the second verse, you’re already singing,” Zeichick explained. “He just started singing and people just started singing with him.”

Rather than positioning the choir as performers apart from the congregation, Ochs invited them to gather around the piano and sing alongside the community — transforming the service into what Zeichick described using the Yiddish term kumzitz, an informal gathering centered around music, singing and storytelling.

“He didn’t want it to be a concert where you sit in your chair and listen,” Zeichick said. “He wanted everyone singing the music together.”

Segal thanked participants during the concert, emphasizing that the celebration reflected the congregation’s collaborative spirit.

“We love to do so many things together as a community,” she said. “We’re defined by the way we build relationships, come together, learn, study, make the world a better place, care for each other and pray.”

As Temple Chai continues its 50th-anniversary year, the new song commissioned for the occasion is expected to remain part of its musical life long after the celebrations conclude, a lasting expression of a congregation that, in Segal’s words, continues to be shaped by the voices of those who sing together. JN

For more information, visit templechai.com. To learn more about Michael Hunter Ochs, visit michaelhunterochs.com.

Michael Hunter Ochs, far right, performs with Valley cantors from left, Todd Herzog, Sarah Bollt and Tanya Greenblatt. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS

PJ Library’s “Get Together” microgrant program reaches more North American Jews than ever before

JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER

Since its relaunch in September 2025, PJ Library’s “Get Together” program has distributed over $1 million in microgrants in its first six months, helping to fund more than 10,000 small, Jewish-themed gatherings across the United States and Canada.

Just over 120 of those get-togethers were hosted in the Greater Phoenix area, with over $12,000 dispensed for Valley family gatherings.

“What a fun evening celebrating Shabbat with friends that we haven’t done Shabbat with before,” shared Rebecca Feinman, local microgrant recipient.

“We’ve done dinners with our friends, but this was the first time we’ve had some of the families over for Shabbat. It was so nice seeing all of the kids interact. So thankful for all of the wonderful PJ Library resources.”

When “Get Together” launched in 2016, it was available in only 10 cities across North America.

Grants were then expanded to all 230,000 PJ Library member families in 2024, and the program was successfully relaunched in fall 2025, with the help of a larger team to review applications and distribute grants.

The program is now available to PJ Library subscriber families who host at least two other Jewish families for any gathering rooted in Jewish holidays, values or traditions.

“In Jewish tradition, community is essential. The popularity of our Get Together microgrants indicates just how much Jewish families from all different backgrounds and experiences are eager to embrace opportunities to meet up,” said Jessica McCormick, director of Family

Experience at PJ Library, in a statement. Over 8,000 households held Jewish gatherings with help from PJ Library

between September and December 2025, with more than a quarter of those being first-time grant recipients.

PJ Library Get Together at the home of Rebecca Feinman.

‘Ragtime’ brings timely story to Phoenix stage

MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

An American story about immigration, identity and social change takes the stage in downtown Phoenix April 24-26 as Arizona Musicfest closes its season with “Ragtime: A Theatrical Concert Experience” at the Herberger Theater Center.

Based on the 1975 novel by Jewish author E.L. Doctorow, “Ragtime” explores the intersection of three communities at the turn of the 20th century: Black, Eastern European Jewish immigrants and upper-class white residents of New Rochelle, New York. Despite being set more than a century ago, its themes remain strikingly relevant today.

“It’s unfortunately a very timely story of immigration, antisemitism and racism,” said Allan Naplan, executive and producing director and CEO of Arizona Musicfest. “But despite the drama and tragedy, it’s still uplifting and, at times, humorous, which is the sign of any good musical.”

Arizona Musicfest’s 35th anniversary season and features five Broadway

guest artists alongside performers from across the Valley and the Musicfest Pops Ensemble, a full 40-piece orchestra performing onstage with the cast.

“It’s rare around here for a musical to get a full orchestration,” Naplan said. “Most of the presenters in town just use small, reduced pit orchestras.”

Unlike a traditional staged concert, the performance will include costumes, lighting, scenic elements and full theatrical staging — with the orchestra visible behind the performers.

“That’s why we call it a theatrical concert experience,” Naplan said. “It’s a fully theatricalized production.”

While “Ragtime” centers on multiple communities, Jewish immigration plays a key role in the narrative through the character Tateh, a Latvian Jewish immigrant artist building a new life in America with his daughter. Historical figures, including political activist Emma Goldman and illusionist Harry Houdini, also appear in the story.

clarinet playing when Tateh comes on stage,” Naplan said. “That modality grounds us in the Eastern European klezmer sound.”

For Naplan, who is Jewish, the musical holds deep personal meaning, similar to “Fiddler on the Roof” and many other classic musicals with Jewish themes.

thematically and also musically.”

Composed by Stephen Flaherty with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, who is Jewish, the score blends classical Broadway traditions with sweeping ensemble writing reminiscent of Rodgers and Hammerstein and Stephen Sondheim.

“When I saw the current Broadway production, there were three times when the audience, in the middle of the SEE RAGTIME, PAGE 8

NO ONE SAVES MORE LIVES IN ISRAEL IN TIMES OF CRISIS.

Allan Naplan COURTESY OF ARIZONA MUSICFEST Sam Primack COURTESY OF ARIZONA MUSICFEST

There are many ways to support Israel and its people, but none is more transformative than a gift to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency services system. Your

performance, leaped to their feet with standing ovations because some of these musical numbers are just so riveting and powerful,” Naplan said. “The ensemble writing is really spectacular.”

The production also features Ta’Nika Gibson, currently appearing in the Broadway revival, who will travel to Phoenix to play Sarah. Additional guest artists include Metropolitan Opera performer Justin Austin as Coalhouse Walker, Jr. and Broadway veteran David Gordon as Tateh.

Among the cast members is Scottsdale native Sam Primack, who plays Younger Brother, a character whose journey reflects the show’s themes of empathy and social awakening.

Primack, now based in New York, began performing in Valley youth theater programs before making his Broadway debut at age 17 in “Dear Evan Hansen.”

“There was a crazy three- or fourmonth period where I was learning the Broadway show, finishing high school online and learning to live in New York,” Primack said. “It was a big growing-up experience.”

He later became the final actor to play the title role on Broadway before the show closed in 2022.

Returning to perform at the Herberger Theater Center carries special meaning.

“I performed on that stage from the time I was 9 or 10 years old,” Primack said. “Being back there is going to be quite emotional.”

Primack became a bar mitzvah at Temple Solel in Scottsdale and credits Valley youth theater organizations such as Desert Stages Theatre, Valley Youth Theatre, Spotlight Youth Theatre and Greasepaint Youtheatre with shaping his career.

“Those people became family,” he said.

In “Ragtime,” his character begins the story sheltered by privilege but gradually becomes involved in activism and social justice work.

“He goes through a really interesting journey of reaching out to the other side and learning about different cultures and identities,” Primack said.

Both Naplan and Primack say the musical’s continued relevance is one reason it remains so powerful nearly three decades after its Broadway debut.

“That’s why it’s been so powerful over the years,” Primack said. “If you turn on the news, you’ll see stories that happen in ‘Ragtime.’ It keeps having parallels to our lives today.”

Naplan agreed.

“The storylines of many news stories right now are about how important this

Sundt Construction, Inc. has F/T Project Manager position in Tempe, Arizona. Duties include: Champions transition of proj from estmtng to ﬁeld; Leads rev mtngs focused re cntrct reqs, conditions, sched, budgets, subcntrcts & purch orders; Completes close-out reqs & punch lists; Mngs warranty callbacks; Coord w Proj Super re means/ methods reqd for execut of work; Establ proj charter & PMP; Rspnsbl for proj success, proﬁt, safety, sched, qual, & cust satisfact; Mng billng; Prep Mnthly Prog Rep; Preparation & rev estmts; Undrstnd & admin prime cntrct terms, docs, subcntrct agrmnts, purch orders & insurnce. Bachelor’s Degree in CivEng, Cnstrct Eng, Cnstrct Mgmt, or rel & 3 yrs exp reqd. Bkgrd check, drug test reqd. Submit res to recruiting@sundt.com Code LP1701.

show is for our time,” he said.

The production also reflects Arizona Musicfest’s expanding presence in downtown Phoenix. Last year marked the organization’s first full musical theater production at the Herberger with “Carousel,” following more than three decades of concerts in North Scottsdale.

The move opened performances to new audiences across the Valley.

“It made it more convenient for a large percentage of our audience,” Naplan said. “And it opened up the doors to even more people who perhaps didn’t know about our concerts in North Scottsdale.”

PROGRAM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

“PJ Library provides families with the tools, framework and, now, incentive to put Jewish traditions and values into action. These grants make it easier for families to celebrate in community,” McCormick said.

So far, 23% of get-togethers have centered around High Holiday season activities, 31% around Shabbat and Havdalah gatherings and 26% relating to Chanukah celebrations.

With “Ragtime” closing the season, the organization hopes to continue building momentum for large-scale musical theater productions.

For Primack, returning home to perform in a show with such timely themes makes the experience especially meaningful.

“I think it’s going to be really powerful for people to see all three of these groups, which make up a lot of Arizona, on stage doing this powerful and emotional piece of theater,” he said. JN

For more information, visit azmusicfest.org.

that the family is a PJ Library subscriber and host two to 10 other Jewish families for a Jewish-themed gathering. No receipts are required. Families submit a brief report, and PJ Library reimburses them.

The microgrant program aligns with recommendations from the 2025 Jewish Families Today report to empower families to create Jewish experiences at home.

Beth El Cemetery

Traditional grass kosher cemetery conveniently located in central Phoenix at the Northwest corner of I-17 and Van Buren St.

For information please contact cemetery@bethelphoenix.com

www.bethelphoenix.com/cemetery

Erthos, Inc. has FT Senior Software Engineer job in Chandler AZ. Lead design, dvlpmnt, deploy of Excel Add-In, replac legacy VBA code, improv scrity, scalblty, auto test; Arch implmnt Azure; Des mng Azure SQL dba, schema des, stored proced, advncd query optimiz; Dev Logic Apps; Oversee Azure DevOps code mgmnt; Deliver bus solut; Tech document; Code rev, team mtngs, mentoring; Support robotics automation. Master’s Comp Sci, SW Eng, or rel, 1 yr exp & req. Telecomm fr anywhere in US. Res: recruiting@erthos.com & incl job code LP0301 w/res.

“Families tell us that they’ve connected with neighbors and friends for Rosh Hashanah apple picking, Chanukah sufganiyot (jelly donut) tastings, challah baking, Havdalah ceremonies, neighborhood clean-ups and so much more,” McCormick said.

She shared that while PJ Library has many subscribers in large cities, most of the PJ Library-funded get-togethers are taking place in rural communities that are not served by a Jewish community center or Jewish federation.

In an interview with eJewishPhilanthropy, McCormick said, “We’re sending these funds into areas where people might be reaching out to the only other Jews in the area, or maybe they didn’t know other Jews, but the microgrant has encouraged them to go out and meet families and find community.”

The only eligibility requirements are

“In our most recent triennial study, we found that PJ Library has the largest impact on the families who need accessible, parent-led Jewish engagement the most,” McCormick said. “They want tools that ground their children in Jewish identity, develop empathy and help them engage with core values. The Get Together grants help them turn that learning into action, by inviting other Jewish families to experience holidays, celebrations and activities in the community.”

The goal for Get Together in 2026 was to reach 4% of subscribers, but based on early returns, an estimated 8% may participate this year.

PJ Library supports Jewish childhood experiences by sending free books and activities to families around the world with children up to 12 years old. In 20 years, the organization has grown to distribute over 650,000 books in seven languages every month. JN

For more information, visit pjlibrary.org.

The production of "Carousel" in 2025 was Arizona Musicfest's debut of a full musical theater production at the Herberger Theater Center. COURTESY

Transmission, memories and the Jewish future

RABBI MICHAEL DUBITSKY

PARSHAH TAZRIA-METZORA:

LEVITICUS 12:1-15:33

On a recent trip to Florida, I visited the Jewish Museum of Florida. It is a museum that showcases the history of Jews in the state and how they helped to settle certain cities and industries in the early part of the 20th century.

As my family had a part in that history, I wandered through the museum in Miami looking for contributions that my family had made to the state’s museum and family artifacts that had great significance for my family. When I could not find what I was searching for, I asked the docent whether there were any other artifacts that had been donated, or if there were exhibits of the museum that could be examined or may have changed over the decades. She recommended that I go to the basement and see if there were any older remnants

from the Jewish community that had been moved there over the years.

Like an explorer in an action movie, I went to the basement of the museum in search of a lost Jewish community. While I did not find what I was looking for, I came across massive plaques that had the names of the original members of the synagogue that had been turned into the museum in which I stood. Members who had given their lives and their resources to build a Jewish community, but had been lost to time.

I began to wonder why the names were not considered worthy enough to be kept in the main halls of the museum where attendees could see who started the Jewish community in that location?

This past week we commemorated Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and the same issue is being raised by our generation. As a child of a survivor, I am always suggesting ways to keep the memories alive of those Jews who gave their lives to enable us, in the U.S. and throughout the world, to live as Jews and to raise our families as such.

My grandfather was killed before the Germans even organized concentration camps, and my family had to rely on eyewitness testimony to establish the yahrtzeit date of all those killed in his shtetl. The current generation is losing out on hearing firsthand accounts of the terrors that the Jews of that generation endured. Indeed, many of our local Phoenix Holocaust survivors that I invited to speak to my classes, have since passed away.

In this week’s double parshah of TazriaMetzora, we have an interesting juxtaposition of topics that we read about. The first has to do with birth and the accompanying levels of purity and impurity, but throughout our reading of the second parshah we read about a spiritual-based affliction known as tzara’as. A Jew that has tzara’as must leave the camp of the Israelites for a specific number of days and only after being separated may once again rejoin the encampment of the Jews.

The question may be asked as to why these two topics — birth, entering the Jewish camp, and tzara’as, which causes people to leave from the encampment of

SHABBAT ENDS

18 - 7:39 P.M. APRIL 25 - 7:45 P.M.

the Jews — are read next to one another. One may propose a suggestion that perhaps in both circumstances, we are looking to remember each individual person in our midst. Regardless of whether we are pure, impure, male, female, young, old or any generation in between, each Jew has a tremendous value to the entire Jewish people. Indeed, Rabbi Shimshon Rafael Hirsch taught that the Hebrew word for story is sippur and the Hebrew word for number is mispar. They are phonetically similar, to teach that each Jew is not simply a number, everyone has their own individual story. The lesson of our generation, this week’s double parshah and the message to our families, is to share our own journeys and make sure they are transmitted to the succeeding generations. JN

A

month after our synagogue was attacked, the hardest part has been everything that came after

BRIAN S. COHEN | JTA

It has been a month since March 12 and there is a story unfolding at Temple Israel that most people would not be aware of. It’s not the headlines or the immediate aftermath — it’s the quiet, complicated reality of daily life that followed for our families, our faculty, staff and clergy. We are living it every day.

For many parents, the preschool’s closure from the moment our building was rammed by a truck on the afternoon of March 12 through our anticipated reopening off-site in the coming days has meant scrambling to figure out something no one planned for: a full month of unexpected childcare. And yet amid that challenge, something beautiful has happened. Businesses and community members stepped up. Playdates were organized across Detroit. Families found ways to create moments of community even when nothing felt normal.

As our clergy have shared multiple times since the events of March 12, Temple Israel does not only exist within walls — it lives in how we show up for each other.

Our faculty are feeling it, too. They want to be with their students for those final weeks of the school year, the moments that matter, that bring meaning and completion.

The faculty and staff of our preschool have been hard at work in recent weeks to finish the year in a different space, outside of the comfort and familiarity that makes Temple Israel feel like home.

Behind the scenes, our staff is carrying a burden that many don’t fully realize and is a story in itself that our leadership has made efforts to share.

More than half of our team was in the building that day. They are not just employees navigating logistics; they are individuals processing trauma. The very people we

We are a diverse community. The views expressed in these opinion

rely on to keep everything running are, themselves, deeply affected.

Temple Israel was where they felt safest. It was where they understood the rhythm of daily life.

Much like our preschool faculty and children, our clergy and staff are making their way to a temporary facility, as necessary as it is, that doesn’t yet hold that same sense of grounding.

Along the way, we have done what is important by putting people first. We have done surveys of our staff, we have done listening circles and we have been together to help one another piece together our collective stories.

We have brought in experts who are familiar with working with victims of mass violence and providing additional tools to our lay leaders, faculty, staff and clergy.

We are checking in. We are trying to meet

people where they are, knowing that everyone, regardless of their role and where they were on March 12, is in a different place. There is not a single solution or no onesize-fits-all path forward. Just the ongoing work of care, flexibility and compassion. This is the part of the story that doesn’t make headlines.

I have told the faculty and staff that we are not going to be perfect; that we as a community are going to do our best to move forward while still carrying what happened with us forward.

And maybe that’s the story worth telling. Not just what happened that day, but what it means to live through the days after — and to keep showing up anyway. JN

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

Philanthropy, Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, Cleveland Jewish Publication Company or the staff of Jewish News. Letters must respond to content published by Jewish News and should be a maximum of 200 words. They may be edited for space and clarity. Unsigned letters will not be published. Letters and op-ed submissions should be sent to editor@jewishaz.com

Rabbi Michael Dubitsky is a hospital chaplain for Jewish Family & Children’s Service and teacher at Shearim Torah High School for Girls.

Find area congregations at JewishAZ.com, where you can also find our 2026 Community Directory.

Rabbi Michael Dubitsky COURTESY OF RABBI MICHAEL DUBITSKY

The time is now to think about estate planning

MARK BREGMAN | SPECIAL TO JEWISH NEWS

Estate planning is one of those tasks most people know they should tackle but continually put off — often because it feels complicated, uncomfortable or something only wealthy people need to worry about. None of that is true. Estate planning is for everyone, and getting the basics in place is simpler than you think.

At its core, estate planning is the process of deciding how to pass your property to your loved ones. Most people think estate planning is about money and property, and for many people that is true. Frequently, the most important gifts have already been given — a lifetime of passing on your values to your children and grandchildren, intentionally or unintentionally. Never has “you reap what you sow” had more meaning than when applied to thinking about what happens when you reach the end of life and beyond. In today’s modern family with many second marriages and stepchildren, many people must navigate a minefield of potential problems that go far beyond traditional planning. And since the

"ESTATE PLANNING IS FOR EVERYONE, AND GETTING THE BASICS IN PLACE IS SIMPLER THAN YOU THINK."

late 1990s, an ever-increasing Applicable Exemption Amount (now no couple with less than $30,000,000 pays federal estate taxes) means estate tax planning is less important for most folks.

Leaving everything to your spouse and then in equal shares to your children, with no thought given to how such a plan will affect your loved ones, works well in many situations. In those few cases, after consultation with professionals and deliberation, a simple will (or no will at all) and a thoughtful health care power of attorney may be enough. However, often, many additional building blocks, such as financial powers of attorney, beneficiary deeds, rights of survivorship, living wills, trusts and charitable giving plans may be

appropriate as additional issues are identified during your consultative discussions.

Typical issues arise when your loved ones may be incapable of managing their own property. The deficits may be physical, special needs, such as addictions, lack of self-control, developmental or chronic disabilities. People misjudge the ability of their loved ones to get along and avoid costly legal disputes. A frank discussion with a lawyer about your intentions and the nature of your loved ones can often give rise to solutions you may not have thought about. In our practice we say, “you teach us about your family, and we will teach you about the law.” An honest introspective look into yourself and your family will lead to a worry-free future and harmony among your loved ones.

Doing nothing is the biggest mistake — for many people estate planning is low on their to-do list — but it is not the only one. Many people create estate planning documents and then never update them. Life changes — marriages end, children are born, people move across state lines — and your estate plan should keep pace.

Another frequent error is failing to retitle assets in your living trust. There may be good reasons not to retitle assets into a trust, but individual assets not titled in a trust or with a beneficiary designation will not avoid probate.

Finally, do not overlook digital assets. Document your passwords, cryptocurrency keys and instructions for social media accounts and secure them in a place where

your successors will find them. There are laws and policies governing access to digital assets, and your executor may need explicit permission to access them. The best plan is the one you create with the help of a lawyer. Lawyers are not cheap, but many clients recognize the value an experienced estate planner brings to the discussion. Social media, AI, online purveyors of documents and licensed or unlicensed document preparers may be helpful and inexpensive — but none of those give you the depth of knowledge and experience you gain from working with a lawyer. Choosing an estate planning lawyer is not easy — read online reviews and talk to your friends, but the best results will come from exercising your common sense and choosing the path that works best for you. JN

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Mark Bregman has been an estate planning attorney for over 40 years. For more information, contact 602-254-6008 or info@ DBFWCLegal.com or visit DBFWCLegal.com.

Mark Bregman COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS

Three years in, Gottlieb Law builds reputation through collaboration

MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR

Benjamin L. Gottlieb grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and decided to stay in Arizona after attending law school at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University in Phoenix, where he earned his Juris Doctor.

After working at a boutique real estate firm and gaining experience in trials, arbitrations and appeals, he said he “found his stride” as an attorney as he gained recognition as a real estate lawyer.

In 2022, he launched Gottlieb Law with a clear vision: to deliver real estate and civil litigation services through a teamoriented model that balances attorney autonomy with hands-on support.

“We have a fantastic team of four lawyers who have all been working together since inception, which is highly unusual,” Gottlieb said. “We’ve organically developed this tight-knit, strong culture.”

Co-managing attorney Tony Salvatore, who previously worked at a national

firm, highlighted the accelerated growth opportunities at Gottlieb Law.

“At my prior firm, it might have taken years before I handled oral arguments or managed cases end-to-end. Here, I’ve been able to develop as a complete lawyer, with support when I need it.”

Co-managing attorney Josh Perlman added, “I was looking for the opportunity to work in a growing firm practicing real estate law with a rainmaker like Ben. We’re encouraged to collaborate but also trusted with the independence to run our cases efficiently. That balance is hard to find.”

The firm also includes 10 employees and focuses primarily on Arizona real estate transactions and litigation — an area Gottlieb says is far more dynamic than many people expect.

He cited cases ranging from neighbor disputes that raise unexpected constitutional questions to contested property claims and wrongful liens.

“The issues we see are anything but

boring,” Gottlieb said. “You might have a case where a neighbor changed the conditions on their property that caused flooding next door after a sudden storm,

or there’s a breakup and one of the parties then records a false lien against the property of the other to get back at them.

With

Get Solutions to Your Legal Problems

Benjamin L. Gottlieb

Every situation has its own nuance.”

For Gottlieb, one of the most meaningful aspects of the work is helping vulnerable clients navigate unfamiliar legal terrain.

“We just had a client who wasn’t sophisticated in real estate and was taken advantage of,” he said. “Helping her get all her money back that she poured into this transaction, where she was misled, that’s a really satisfying component of being a lawyer.”

Although the firm mostly operates remotely, it maintains a physical office near 24th Street and Camelback Road, providing a space for collaboration, which remains central to the firm’s success.

Each week, the legal team meets for a three-hour team meeting to review cases, discuss developments and share ideas. Attorneys also connect regularly through digital communication platforms and periodic in-person gatherings.

“When one attorney encounters a complex issue, the entire firm becomes part of the solution,” Gottlieb said. “That results in consistency, continuity and a shared sense of ownership across matters.”

Co-managing attorney Amy Wilson

emphasized the firm’s creative approach.

“We’re not micromanaged. We’re encouraged to think strategically, workshop ideas together and choose the best path forward for the client. That kind of environment allows us to produce strong, practical results.”

Like many areas of legal practice, real estate litigation is evolving alongside advances in artificial intelligence. Gottlieb sees AI as a useful tool when used carefully, but not a substitute for professional judgment.

“AI can save clients time and money by helping identify relevant provisions in large documents,” he said. “But you have to double check everything. Law is a precise profession, and even a small error can have serious consequences.”

Courts are increasingly requiring attorneys and litigants to certify that filings prepared with AI tools have been verified for accuracy, reflecting growing concern about fabricated citations and

unreliable legal analysis. Gottlieb said that often AI “hallucinates,” citing a case that is false.

“If you go into your Westlaw subscription and type in the case citation and it doesn’t show up, you know for a fact it’s made up,” he said. Westlaw is the standard for legal research, but clients who try to represent themselves using AI don’t have access to the Westlaw database to check cases they may be citing.

“It’s extremely risky for clients to rely on AI alone for legal issues,” Gottlieb said. “Judges are making clear that people are still responsible for what they file.”

Even if a motion has a 1% error due to the use of AI, Gottlieb said judges can impose a sanction or fine.

He said he has seen this scenario firsthand, where people have come to him saying that they made their situation worse by using AI and now need the help of an attorney.

Aside from someone needing help to

get out of a sticky situation, Gottlieb said that much of the firm’s growth has come through referrals.

“We’re known as a top-rated real estate law firm, and we receive dozens of referrals each week,” he said. “That reputation has allowed us to grow organically.”

A member of Temple Emanuel of Tempe, Gottlieb said his Jewish upbringing continues to shape his approach to legal practice.

“I had a great upbringing with values like helping the underdog, tzedakah and working hard,” he said. “Those values are always in the background and guide what I do; helping people who don’t have a voice.”

As the firm enters its next phase, Gottlieb expects continued growth driven by reputation, collaboration and careful hiring.

“Reaching the three-year mark is meaningful,” Gottlieb said. “The credit belongs to our attorneys and staff who have built a culture of collaboration, high performance and genuine care for clients. We’re excited for what’s next, including welcoming a mid-level attorney who shares our values as we continue to grow.”

For more information, visit gottlieblawaz.com.

Lead Supplier Quality Engineer: Bach deg in Ind Engg or rel discipline + 60 mos prog exp in supplier quality engg, mfg or supply chain incl leading supplier quality team; problem-solving & risk-case analysis; VAVE cost reductions; process audits & supplier evaluation; supplier dev programs; QMS; ISO 9001, ISO 14001 or IATF 16949; APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC & RCA; data analysis & reporting tools. Travel req’d.

Lead So ware Developer – ERP Systems: Master’s deg in Computer Science, Computer Engg, MIS, IT or rel eld + 36 mos prog exp in ERP so ware dev incl SAP ABAP, SQL & C#; Epicor and/or SAP ERP; ERP integrations (APIs, middleware, data services); ETL, data modeling & migration tools; reporting & analytics (Power BI or Tableau); tech documentation; Agile dev; UAT & issue resolution.

Camp Ramah in California launches tuition subsidy to help families of Jewish day school educators

JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER

rom Jewish day school to camp to synagogue membership dues, the cost of Jewish life continues to rise, affecting Jewish families around the world, regardless of socioeconomic class.

Camp Ramah in California recognized that some families are particularly affected, including those struggling to make do on the salary of a Jewish educator, causing them to lack the means to afford the services of the very same Jewish institutions they work every day to preserve.

To remedy this, Camp Ramah launched the Brian Fagan and Lisa Lainer-Fagan Camp Ramah Jewish Educators Subsidy, providing 50% tuition support for Jewish day school educators enrolling their children at the camp, beginning as soon as summer 2026.

“Jewish educators are at the heart of our community,” said Rabbi Joe Menashe, CEO of Camp Ramah in California. “They

devote their professional lives to nurturing Jewish learning, identity and values. This subsidy is one way Ramah can express our gratitude and help ensure that their children are able to experience the joy, growth and deep sense of belonging that come with a Ramah summer.”

Camp Ramah provides campers with a joyful and welcoming community driven by Jewish values. Campers build meaningful relationships that last beyond the summer, take part in Jewish practice and learn about Israel, merging the fun and independence of summer camp with an immersive Jewish education designed to inspire future Jewish professionals.

Ramah purports to cultivate a passion for lifelong Jewish learning among all its participants, including campers, counselors, specialty staff and directors. The camp creates opportunities for joy ful prayer, mitzvot and positive interper

sonal engagement, spreading the wisdom of the Jewish people and fostering a commitment to Jewish heritage.

At camp, children learn to take active responsibility for themselves, their peers and the world.

Now, thanks to the Fagan Jewish Educators Subsidy, this experience is available to a wider range of Jewish children, especially those whose parents dedicate themselves to educating future generations.

“Teachers are my heroes,” said Lisa Lainer-Fagan. “Our three children were blessed with wonderful educators at the Jewish schools they attended. Our kids were also fortunate to spend multiple joyfully Jewish summers at Camp Ramah, as I did. Brian and I want to make sure the

Camp Chanen

Camp Daisy and Harry Stein is a Jewish overnight camp in Prescott, AZ, for children entering 2nd - 12th grade Campers build lasting friendships, deepen their connection to Judaism, and enjoy a variety of fun activities, making it the ultimate summer experience

• Grades K-8

• Summer camp: Swimming, field trips, cooking, Rock Show, arts & crafts, music, Israeli culture sports, STEAM, Late Nights

• School-break camps

• Kosher lunches

• Email: Stephania, salvarez@evjcc.org

CAMP & SCHOOL

at Ramah.”

With camp prices increasing every year, the Fagan Jewish Educators Subsidy provides a substantial tuition reduction, available to all eligible children of Jewish day school educators.

The subsidy furthers Camp Ramah’s vision: “We dream of a more just world with many generations of proud, educated and reflective Jews, deeply committed to their communities and the pursuit of vibrant Jewish life.”

Alison Feinberg, a retired Camp Ramah board member, met her husband, Michael, when they were on staff together in 1993, and they sent all three of their kids to camp. Two are planning to work there this summer, and the third is participating in the camp’s international trip to Israel and Poland.

strategy and systems, stated in a press release that this opportunity not only deepens Camp Ramah’s partnership with the broader Jewish educational ecosystem, but it also reinforces “Ramah California’s belief that strengthening Jewish education means investing not only in institutions, but in the people who sustain them.”

Feinberg agreed, feeling that through various scholarships and other funding opportunities, Camp Ramah almost always finds a way for Jewish families to send their children, especially families that work in their local Jewish communities, so she described this subsidy more as a “targeted effort to show appreciation.”

“Saying we have this dedicated money for them is doubling down to the people that have committed to work in the Jewish community and saying we’re invested in you, we see what you give to the community, and we want to help take care of you and your family,” she said.

“I think (the subsidy) is a great thing because camp is very expensive, and it’s getting more expensive every year as costs go up,” Feinberg said. “When you have people working in the field — Jewish day school teachers, youth directors, rabbis and cantors — they also have kids that need to go to Jewish summer camp, and this grant takes out a huge part of the financial stress.”

Jason Goldman, director of business

“I have a daughter who graduated from college, and she is starting a master’s program in Jewish communal leadership in the fall, so she’s going to be one of these people working in the field,” Feinberg said. “I think it’s super important to acknowledge that our Jewish organizations are taking care of the Jewish professionals.” JN

For more information, visit ramah.org/JEsubsidy.

Week 1:

May 26th – 29th • Jump into Summer

Week 2:

June 1st – 5th•Pirates

Week 3:

June 8th – 12th•Circus

Week 4:

June 15th – 19th• Ninja

Week 5:

June 22nd – 26th•Disney

Week 6:

July 6th – 10th•Super Heroes

Week 7:

July 13th – 17th• Beach

Week 8:

July 20th – 24th•Winter in July

Week 9:

July 27th – 31st • Space Costs: $81 to $398

Scottsdale teen elected to BBYO International Board at IC 2026

JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER

Noah Low, 17, a student at Horizon High School in Scottsdale, was elected to represent the Greater Phoenix Jewish community on the world stage as the 102nd Grand Aleph Mazkir on BBYO’s International Board.

Elected on Feb. 15 at BBYO’s International Convention (IC) 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Noah serves in one of the highest youth leadership positions in the global Jewish community, tasked with directing BBYO’s programming for the next year, aligning organizational priorities and shaping Jewish experiences for thousands of teens across the world.

“I am truly honored to serve as BBYO’s incoming international Mazkir,” he said. “This movement has given me so much, and I am proud to be able to give back to the organization and people that shaped me. As we enter our 102nd year, I’ll be thinking about how we share our stories,

celebrate our voices and connect Alephs and BBGs across the world, and I look forward to shaping a future where our communication not only informs, but inspires Jewish teens everywhere.”

When he attended Pardes Jewish Day School, Noah remembered many graduates returning to coach sports and lead clubs. He credited a few high school juniors for inspiring him and his friends to join BBYO when they were in eighth grade.

He wasn’t planning on running for any leadership positions at his first chapter board elections, but he and his friend were nominated to be co-Mazkirim.

“I really didn’t know what I was getting into, but I fell in love with it,” Noah said.

“It was super fun to make content and show off what the chapter does. I love the creativity that comes along with it.”

After being elected regional Mazkir for

SEE BBYO, PAGE 16

“I AM TRULY HONORED TO SERVE AS BBYO’S INCOMING INTERNATIONAL MAZKIR. THIS MOVEMENT HAS GIVEN ME SO MUCH, AND I AM PROUD TO BE ABLE TO GIVE BACK TO THE ORGANIZATION AND PEOPLE THAT SHAPED ME.”

the Mountain Region last year, he knew he’d run for the international board.

Two months before elections, potential candidates received the materials they needed to declare their candidacy, including 10 general essay questions and another five position-specific questions.

The next step was to interview with Tess Perez, mountain region director, and the international board president to obtain their endorsements.

Noah’s platform, vision statements and a short video were posted on the BBYO website a week before the convention, along with all of the other candidates.

Throughout the four-day convention, more than 3,400 Jewish teens from 52 countries engaged in Jewish learning,

leadership training and community service, including a Shabbat celebration and many meaningful discussions on the prominent issues impacting Jewish youth across the world.

As a member of the IC steering talent committee, Noah was tasked with booking guest speakers and presenters. He had the opportunity to interview recent Olympic diver Tyler Downs, as well as well-known TikTok influencer, American chef and cookbook author QCP.

“I’ve seen this guy ever since I could remember being on TikTok, and the fact that I was sitting next to him, interviewing him in front of 200 teens was surreal,” Noah said.

Though IC began on a Thursday, elections didn’t take place until Sunday, and they lasted over eight hours, with 30 total candidates running across all of

the positions.

“I had to wait half the day, and it was just super stressful sitting there during the rest of the elections,” Noah recalled.

The pool of voters consisted of around 280 regional board members and the current international board. Noah needed a majority of all of the votes to be elected, beating out two other candidates.

On the international level, the Mazkir is in charge of communication, democracy and governance. He ensures the democratic processes are maintained for elections across the entire organization and works closely with regional Mazkirim to popularize the social events of their regions.

The Mazkir also facilitates relationships and promotes clubs with the International Leadership Network (ILN), having a hand in BBYO’s social media content on TikTok, Instagram and the Shofar, BBYO’s international newsletter.

Noah’s experience in BBYO has sparked an interest in politics.

“One big thing I want to do this year is to get a lot of Jewish teens involved in local government, so that we can have influence in our regions,” he said. “I want to increase civic engagement among

teens all across the country — across the world, even. I find serving people insanely fulfilling.”

“Noah’s passion for connecting with every teen in our movement has made such an impact in the BBYO and Mountain Region,” Perez said. “His strength in making teens feel included and represented is what has carried him this far, and we are so proud to see him serve this next year as our international Mazkir.”

After the elections, Noah visited the Mountain Region’s evening meeting, where he was celebrated by his peers.

“I was speechless,” he said. “Seeing all the people that I’ve grown up with, gone to Monday night programs with for the past three years, and seeing all of them be that proud and happy for me was genuinely life changing.

“The Phoenix Jewish community has been such a big part of my life, somewhere that I could always find myself, be myself, and the fact that I’m able to represent us on an international level with the biggest youth-led Jewish organization in the world is really special.” JN

For more information about BBYO Mountain Region, visit bbyo.org.

• Infant-kindergarten

• Year-round program with flexible scheduling

• Five-Star Quality First site

• National Early Childhood Program Accreditation

• Low student-to-teacher ratio

• After-school enrichment classes

Summer Fun at the J (Ages 2-4): June 1-July 31, 2026

Email: Pam, pam@evjcc.org chandlerjbeginnings.org

Noah Low has been elected as the 102nd Grand Aleph Mazkir on BBYO’s International Board. COURTESY OF JASON DIXSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Featured Event

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22

Israel @ 78:

5-7:30 p.m. Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join the VOSJCC to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut with an Israeli shuk, inflatables, games, whiskey tasting, photo exhibit, kosher food, community partner fair and more. Cost: Free. For more information, visit valleyofthesunj.org/israel-78.

Events

SUNDAY, APRIL 19

JWV Post 619 Speaker: 9:30 a.m. Oakwood Country Club Ballroom, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Join Jewish War Veterans Copper State Post 619 for a presentation by Rachel Masch-Perez, MANA House (Marine, Army, Navy, Air Force & Coast Guard) community engagement coordinator. For more information, contact Arthur Uram at 702-884-4175 or uramarthur@gmail.com.

Kafe Kadima Fundraiser: 12:30 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Beth El for lunch prepared by Kadima youth group members. Meal catered by Beth El parent volunteers. Donations help support Beth El youth groups, providing fun learning and social events for youth to explore their Jewish identities. For more information, visit bethelphoenix. com/event/kafe-kadima.

Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration: 1-4 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join the East Valley Jewish Community Center to celebrate Israel’s 78th birthday with Israeli music, Israeli dancing, children’s activities, a bounce house and Mediterranean cuisine. Cost: Free with registration. For more information, visit evjcc.org/ yom-haatzmaut.

Passion & Purpose: Channeling the Feminine: 1:30 p.m. Aviano Community Center, 22500 N. Aviano Way, Phoenix. Join Chabad Jewish Women’s Circles of Arizona for an afternoon exploring femininity, relationships and the sacred meaning of the mikvah in Jewish life with Miriam Lipskier, an internationally renowned lecturer. For more information, visit eventcreate.com/e/passionpurpose.

Reminiscences: 3 p.m. Jewish Community of Sedona and the Verde Valley, 100 Meadowlark Dr., Sedona. Join JCSVV and Red Rocks Music Festival for a special concert commemorating Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. For more information, visit redrocksmusicfestival.com.

Zeichick Family Lecture: Being Jewish in Hollywood: 6 p.m. Online via Zoom and in person at Temple Solel, 6805 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley. Join Temple Solel, Valley Beit Midrash and actor, author, director and neuroscience Ph.D., Mayim Bialik, who will discuss her Jewish journey, what it’s like to be proudly Jewish in Hollywood, how she’s responded to recent streams of antisemitism in the media and more. Cost: $36. For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 20

Yiddish-Kite Club: 10 a.m. East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Join the EVJCC for a morning of Yiddish with Yiddish maven Sandra Bernoff. Cost: Free. For more information, visit evjcc.org/yiddish

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22

Bernice Rozov Jewish Film Festival: 7-9 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale. Join Beth El for a screening of “The Presidents’ Tailor” with a discussion to follow.

Popcorn and drinks provided. For more information, visit bethelphoenix.com/event/film.

THURSDAY, APRIL 23

JFCS Event: Effective Grandparenting: 4:30-6 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join Jewish Family & Children’s Service for a presentation by Dr. Larry Waldman. For more information, contact JFCS Director of Philanthropic Services Carrol Gottfried at Carrol.Gottfried@jfcsaz.org or 602-451-7265.

Models of Heroism and Independence in Our Time: 7 p.m. Online via Zoom and in person at Congregation Beth Israel, 10460 N. 56th St., Scottsdale. Join Valley Beit Midrash for a presentation by Rabbi Mike Feuer exploring a new vision of Jewish strength and purpose in today’s age of sovereignty. For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24

JNF Shabbat Dinner for Israel: 6-9 p.m. Congregation Or Tzion, 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale. Join Or Tzion and Jewish National FundUSA for Kabbalat Shabbat services, dinner and guest speakers sharing their Israel experiences. Cost: $40 per person, $25 ages 12 and under. For more information, visit otaz.org/shabbat.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24 THROUGH SATURDAY, APRIL 25

Temple Chai’s 50th Anniversary Celebration: Legacy of Leadership: 6:15 p.m. April 24; 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. April 25. Temple Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn Road,Phoenix. Celebrate Temple Chai’s anniversary with a special Shabbaton of learning, prayer, song and memory. Welcome beloved guest clergy including Rabbi Bill Berk, Cantor Sharona Feller, Rabbi Peter Levi, Rabbi Mari Chernow, Cantor Ross Wolman and more including Temple Chai member and rabbinical student Levi Gettleman. For more information, visit tcaz.shulcloud.com/form/Legacy.

SUNDAY, APRIL 26

Art Show Fundraiser: 3 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Beth El for an art show fundraiser and reception featuring the work of Dr. Ed Dubrow. He will present 95 prints, each priced at $95, with proceeds benefiting Beth El Phoenix. For more information, visit bethelphoenix.com/event/art.

“Guns & Moses”: 7 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join Chabad of Paradise Valley for a movie night with a behind-the-scenes tour with “Guns & Moses” director Sal Litvak. Cost: $18 per person. For more information, visit jewishparadisevalley.com/movie.

THURSDAY, APRIL 30

Book & Author Event with National Magazine Award-Winning Journalist Bonny Reichert: 6:30 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join the Phoenix Holocaust Association for an evening with 2G author Bonny Reichert who will discuss her book, “How to Share an Egg: A True Story of Hunger, Love and Plenty.” For more information, visit phxha.com/events/ howtoshareanegg.

SUNDAY, MAY 3

Jewish Joy Through the Decades: A Museum of Memories: 6-10 p.m. Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. Join the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix for its inaugural gala honoring Linda Feldman featuring comedian Joel Chasnoff with kosher food stations, music, silent auction and more. For more information, visit bjephoenix.org/ programs/jewish-joy-through-the-decades.

MONDAY, MAY 4

Lag B’Omer Barbecue & Kumsitz: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Beth El for grilled food, live music, youth activities and more. Cost: $18 per person, $50 per family of four; RSVP required. For more information, visit bethelphoenix.com/ event/bbq.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6

Fore the Kids Charity Golf Tournament: 6:30 a.m. TPC Scottsdale Champions Course, 8243 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. Join the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center for its annual golf tournament in support of the SMILE Campaign, which provides financial aid for the Alison Hendeles Early Childhood Center, afterschool childcare, summer camp, adult and Harold + Jean Grossman Parkinson’s programming at the VOSJCC. For more information, visit valleyofthesunj.org/fore-the-kids.

Meetings, Lectures & Classes

SUNDAYS

Chassidus Class: 9 a.m. Online. Learn about the Chasidic movement with Rabbi Yossi Friedman. Use this link: ChabadAZ.com/LiveClass. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.

Jewish War Veterans Post 210: 10 a.m. the first Sunday of the month in Central Phoenix. Any veterans, friends of veterans or if you just want to meet a vet, all are welcome. For more information, contact Michael at c365michael@ yahoo.com.

MONDAYS

Authenticity, Honesty and Integrity: 10-11:30 a.m. May 4, 11 and 18. Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Join TBSWV Rabbi Dana Evan Kaplan for this interfaith series. Together, participants will explore how authenticity and honesty become the building blocks of a life lived with integrity. Cost: $20 for members; $35 for nonmembers. Registration deadline is April 29. For more information, visit tbsaz.org.

Mahjong: 1:30-3:30 p.m. East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. Come play mahjong each week. For all levels. Cost: Free; registration required at evjcc.org/mahjong.

TUESDAYS

Let’s Knit: 1:30 p.m. Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Share the pleasure of knitting, crocheting, etc. outside the social hall in the campus. Can’t

knit? They will teach you! Every level welcome. Cost: Free. For more information, visit vosjcc.org.

Grief Support Group: 4 p.m. Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. All are welcome to this support group for anyone experiencing grief or any kind of loss. Cost: Free. For more information, call 623-584-7210 weekdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

My Baby and Me: 9-10 a.m. Temple Chai Early Childhood Center, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. Join Temple Chai ECC for a weekly gathering for families with babies up to 12 months. Cost: Free. For more information, visit tcaz.shulcloud.com/ event/my-baby-and-me-playgroup.html.

Torah Study with Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Online. Weekly study group explores that week’s portion and studies different perspectives and debates the merits of various arguments. Intended for adults, Torah study is open to students of all levels. For more information, contact the TBS office at 623-977-3240.

Grief Support Group: 5-6 p.m. Online via Zoom. Therapist Susan Charney MSW, LCSW, leads a grief support group every first and third Wednesday of the month virtually for individuals experiencing the loss of an adult child or sibling. In lieu of any fees for these sessions, donations to Temple Solel are appreciated. For more information, contact susancharneycounseling@gmail.com.

JACS: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Online. Zoom support group for Jewish alcoholics, addicts and their friends and family on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Cost: Free. For more information, email jacsarizona@gmail. com or call 602-692-1004.

THURSDAYS

Jewish Influence in Music: 10-11:30 a.m. May 7, 14 and 21. Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Join TBSWV and Pedro Baez as he discusses the lure of music. Participants will learn about the music they grew up with while exploring the music’s origins, songwriters, the significance of record labels and the industry’s marketing strategies to attract a wider audience. Cost: $20 for members; $35 for nonmembers. Registration deadline is May 5. For more information, visit tbsaz.org.

Weekly Mahjong: 1-3 p.m. Temple Solel, 6805 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley. Join Temple Solel each Thursday afternoon for mahjong. Lessons available for beginners. Cost: Free. RSVP via email to dottiebefore@gmail. com so they know how many tables to set up.

Teen Discussions: 7-8:30 p.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Tzvi Rimler. Use this link: cteen. clickmeeting.com/east-valley. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.

SATURDAYS

Saturday Mindfulness Gatherings: 9:30 a.m. Online. Hosted by Hospice of the Valley. To join by phone, dial 1-253-215-8782, meeting ID 486

CALENDAR

920 2119#. To get the Zoom link or for more information, contact Gill Hamilton at ghamilton@hov.org or 602-748-3692.

Book Discussion: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Online. Join Or Adam Congregation for Humanistic Judaism on the third Saturday of every month for a book discussion. For more information and to register, contact oradaminfo@gmail.com.

Shabbat

FRIDAYS

Tot Shabbat: 9:30 a.m. Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix monthly for music, parachute play, crafts and a family Shabbat experience. For more information, visit bjephoenix.org.

Welcome Shabbat: 11-11:30 a.m. Online. Celebrate Shabbat with the JFCS Virtual Center for Senior Enrichment. Each week a different guest host will lead the program with song and celebration. Cost: Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse.

Shabbat at Beth El: 5:45 p.m. on Zoom; 9:30 a.m. at Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix or livestreaming at tinyurl.com/beclivestream. Celebrate Shabbat with songs, blessings and teachings with Rabbi Stein-Kokin and Cantor Sarah Bollt. For more information or to join, visit bethelphoenix.com.

Erev Shabbat Service: 5:30 p.m. Online. Rabbi Alicia Magal will lead a service livestreamed for members of the Jewish Community of Sedona and the Verde Valley. Cost: Free. For more information and to obtain the Zoom link, visit jcsvv.org/contact.

Shabbat Service: 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Oneg at 5 p.m. Temple B’rith Shalom, 2077 Brohner Way, Prescott. Join Temple B’rith Shalom for a musical and spiritual Shabbat service. For more information, visit brithshalom-az.org.

Shabbat Services: 5:30 p.m. nosh, 6:15 p.m. service; morning service has varying dates and times. Temple Chai, 4645 E. Marilyn Road, Phoenix. For more information, contact Joan Neer at jneer@templechai.com.

Pre-Shabbat Kiddush Club: 6 p.m. Online. Say Kiddush with Rabbi Mendy Levertov. Cost: Free. Use this link: ourjewishcenter.com/virtual. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.

Shabbat Services: 6 p.m.; 9:30 a.m.; followed by a light Kiddush lunch. Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. For more information call 623-584-7210 or visit bethemethaz.org.

Carolyn Kaplan

Shabbat Services: 6 p.m.; 9:30 a.m. Congregation Or Tzion, 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale. Services are also live streamed at otaz.org/ livestream. For more information about services, events and membership, visit congregationortzion.org or call 480-342-8858.

First Friday Shabbat Services: 6:15 p.m.; Oneg at 7:15 p.m. Valley Unitarian Universalist, 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. Join Congregation NefeshSoul for Friday night services the first Friday of each month in the sanctuary building of Valley Unitarian Universalist. For more information, contact Jim Hoffman at 480-329-3316.

Shabbat Services: 6:15 p.m.; 10 a.m. Congregation Beth Israel, 10460 N. 56th St., Scottsdale. Services held in the Goldsmith Sanctuary. Participants must pre-register by Thursday at 5 p.m. Priority will be given to members first and then guests. If there are more requests than available seats a lottery system will be used. For more information or to make a reservation, visit cbiaz.org/shabbat-services.

Kabbalat Shabbat and/or Shabbat morning service: 6:30 p.m.; 10 a.m.; dates vary. Congregation Kehillah, 5858 E. Dynamite Blvd., Cave Creek. Join Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman and cantorial soloists Erica Erman and Scott Leader either in person or via Zoom. For safety reasons, please register ahead of time. For dates, visit congregationkehillah.org/event/. Register by emailing info@congregationkehillah.org.

Shabbat Services: 7 p.m. Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley, 12202 N. 101st Ave., Sun City. Services are followed by an Oneg. Services are live-streamed on YouTube. For more information and to get the YouTube link, visit tbsaz.org or call 623-977-3240.

Shabbat Services in Sun Lakes: 7-9 p.m. Sun Lakes Chapel, 9240 E. Sun Lakes Blvd. North, Sun Lakes. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation conducts Reform Shabbat services on the second Friday of each month. New members welcome. For more information, call 480-612-4413 or 480-580-1592.

Shabbat Services with Beth Ami Temple: 7 p.m. Services held at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Phoenix, 4027 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley. Join Beth Ami Temple Rabbi Alison Lawton and Cantorial Soloist Michael Robbins as they lead Shabbat services twice a month. For more information, visit bethamitemple.org.

Third Friday Shabbat: 7-9 p.m. Group meets at a North Scottsdale location. The Desert Foothills Jewish Community Association hosts a Shabbat service followed by a program. Contact 602-487-5718 for more information. JN

Carolyn Kaplan, 86, of Phoenix passed away peacefully at her home on March 20, 2026. Carolyn was born on Aug. 9, 1939, to parents Fay and Meyer Goldstein.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Morris Kaplan. She is survived by her daughters Beth Voss and Helaine Kaplan; son-in-law, Kurt Voss; brother, Louis Goldstein; sister-in-law, Barbara Goldstein; grandchildren Ben Voss and Melissa Morettini; great-granddaughter, Raegan Morettini; nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Carolyn was a devoted and loving mother whose greatest joy was spending time with her family. She also enjoyed traveling around the world with her husband. Carolyn volunteered for over 30 years at the Foundation for Blind Children. She was dedicated to helping the children and they loved her dearly. She always wanted to make people feel welcome and made many friends at Sagewood where she lived.

BENJAMIN MARTIN BRILL

Benjamin Martin Brill will become a bar mitzvah on May 16, 2026, at Congregation Beth Israel. He is the son of Daniel and Melina Brill of Scottsdale.

Benjamin’s grandparents are Gerald and Linda Greenberg of Melville, New York; and the late Joel and Rochelle Brill. For his mitzvah project, Benjamin volunteered at Miracle League of Arizona.

A student at Mountainside Middle School, Benjamin enjoys baseball, skateboarding, hockey, traveling and going to amusement parks. JN

JOSHUA JOSEPH KLEINEBREIL

Joshua Joseph Kleinebreil will become a bar mitzvah on May 16, 2026, at Temple Emanuel of Tempe. He is the son of Karl and Courtney Kleinebreil of Queen Creek.

Joshua’s grandparents are Chuck Kleinebreil of Mesa; Sondra Langer of Los Angeles, California; and the late Larry Langer. For his mitzvah project, Joshua volunteered at a local animal rescue caring for a variety of animals; volunteered at Feed My Starving Children; and served as president of the Kindness Club at his previous school.

A student at Summit School of Ahwatukee, Joshua enjoys playing chess, LEGOs, reading, art, all things Disney, spending time with his family and sister, Chloe, and engaging in activities that challenge his thinking and help him continue to grow. JN

SAMMY B. FRIEDMAN

Sammy B. Friedman will become a bar mitzvah on April 25, 2026, at Congregation Beth Tefillah. He is the son of Daniel Friedman of Scottsdale and Adena Friedman of Scottsdale.

Sammy’s grandparents are Shirley and Milton Zukor of Arlington, Virginia; Anne Friedman of Mandeville, Louisiana; Marilynn Amor of Phoenix; and the late Aaron Friedman.

A student at Pardes Jewish Day School, Sammy is an avid sports fan and enjoys playing basketball, football and baseball. JN

Honey Sue Miller-Bonanno

Honey Sue Miller-Bonanno, 59, of Cave Creek, passed away on March 14, 2026.

She was born in Queens, New York, on July 11, 1966, to parents Dorie and Edward Miller.

Honey graduated from Saguaro High School in Scottsdale and attended Scottsdale Community College. She went on to dedicate herself to a meaningful career in healthcare, working for the Mayo Clinic in Arizona for over 12 years. Through her work, Honey brought compassion and steadiness to those she served and to the colleagues who worked alongside her.

Honey met David Bonanno 37 years ago, and they began dating in February of 2007. Their relationship grew into a devoted partnership, and they were married on April 19, 2020, in Arizona.

Honey loved going to the beach and enjoyed planning staycations, finding joy in simple escapes and time well spent. She also loved animals, especially her cat, Tron, who held a special place in her heart.

Honey is survived by her husband, David Bonanno; her mother, Dorie Miller; her son, Brendan Sodell; her sister, Shari Patti (Steve); her niece, Lauren Miller; her great-nephews Ryyan and Preston; and many other friends and family. Honey was preceded in death by her father, Edward Miller, and her brother, Gary Miller.

Karen Leigh Kohenn Pritikin

Karen Leigh Kohenn Pritikin passed away peacefully in her sleep Tuesday, March 24, 2026. She fought a losing battle as dementia took over her brain and body, leaving her confused and lost, but always recognizing and remembering her children and grandchildren.

Born on Jan. 18, 1947, in New York, she later moved between the Chicago and et oit a eas he e she aised he amily, then leveland and finally settled in ilbe t a en is s vived by o o he five child en, thei amilies, grandchildren and grand-furbabies.

Karen loved spending time with her family whether it was Sunday morning bagels with Mikey, or the cherished dinners and parties at Becky’s house. She loved hearing about how the grandkids were doing in school and sports. She reveled in her children’s success and was in constant awe of their accomplishments, both personally and professionally.

Karen was the constant in her kid’s lives showing up at all hours of the day and night for pickups, drop offs, babysitting, dog sitting and more. Karen was always there.

To their Mom, Momma, Mums, Nana, Grandma, the family prays that Karen is at peace and no longer lost or confused. They pray their Mom watches over them, reminds them to be “good dee dee boos” and is with them as their children grow and make her proud.

n lie o a memo ial se vice, the amily is ca ying o t a en s final ishes p ivately

18 50 under

Michelle Adler

Marina Awerbach

Stephanie Bachus

Jennifer Brauner

Risa Brumer

Erica Erman

Leslie Feldman

Courtney Griggs

Aleeza Kaplan

Dr. Adrienne Kurland

Reuben Nach

Laurel Perlow

Max Schwimmer

Cory Shapiro

Taylor Silverman

Shoshana Simones

Matthew Wall

Jessica Yanow