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‘A HOME FOR OUR NEXT GENERATION’
FROM HAZZAN TO RABBI
The Levine Family Foundation has committed a $10 million naming gift to ASU Hillel
West Valley spiritual leader completes rabbinic ordination ahead of High Holidays
AUGUST 21, 2026 | ELUL 8, 5786 | VOLUME 78, NUMBER 23
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Phoenix hosts Jewish pride takes the field at Alpha Epsilon Pi’s Diamondbacks’ Jewish Community Day annual convention for first time in 22 T years MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR
JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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ore than 500 Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi) undergraduate brothers, staff and alumni gathered at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa for the 113th AEPi International Convention, the fraternity’s marquee annual event for learning, networking and brotherhood. “Arizona has had a long history of hosting AEPi conventions, and it’s pretty special to welcome everybody back to the desert,” said Zachary Baden, president of AEPi’s Alpha Sigma Chapter at Arizona State University. The international convention provides students with many opportunities to engage in workshops, seminars and discussions aimed at expanding the knowledge and skills necessary for strengthening each chapter upon their return to campuses across the country and the world. Programming kicked off with an opening session on the evening of July 29, during which outgoing supreme master Eric Farbman, attending his 22nd convention, welcomed the more than 500 in attendance and thought back to his first convention in New Orleans in 2003, which he credited with changing the course of his chapter. Farbman recognized the dedicated alumni who return to the convention every year, as well as members of the governing boards and committees, regional governors, assistant regional governors, chapter advisors, donors and all other brothers. He advised students to engage with their peers, strengthen bonds with brothers from their chapter and forge new connections to enrich their AEPi and life experiences. He encouraged asking questions, sharing ideas and challenging one another. SEE AEPI, PAGE 2
he Jewish community braved the heat and a stadium filled with Los Angeles Dodgers fans to attend the Arizona Diamondbacks’ annual Jewish Community Day on Sunday, Aug. 9, at Chase Field in Phoenix. The Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix (CJP) organized the event in partnership with more than 30 local organizations. Several of the partnering organizations set up tables in the La Terraza Community Section, including Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Desert, Arizona Kosher Food Pantry, Jewish Free Loan, Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center, Olami Arizona, Hillel at Arizona State University and others. Tara Brighten, preschool director for Chandler Jewish Preschool, had a table encouraging children to draw a story using dots, which she said Sam Wagman appeared on the jumbotron during recognition of attendees and their military service. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS leads to language and math skills. Lauren Kreisberger, head of school at Pardes Jewish Day School, had kids spin a wheel and answer a question before winning a prize. One child answered “Shalom” when asked if they knew a Hebrew word and another correctly identified cities that were either in Israel or Arizona. SEE DBACKS, PAGE 3
Titanic exhibit An immersive, state-of-the-art Titanic exhibition is now open in Scottsdale. See page 8. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS
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about her Judaism with her fellow council members and speaking out for her rights CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 and beliefs. about her Judaism with her fellow council SOPHIE said JonSTERN Meyers, director of ADDPC. She already has some practice at CONTINUED FROM 1 members and speaking out for her rights “Our hope is PAGE to create and promote advocating “A single conversation may give you AEPi for herself. beliefs. opportunities for people to be embraced, and advice, career advice, life advice or prob“One time, I was in class and someone said Jon Meyers, director of ADDPC. She already has some practice at ably all three,” Farbman said. “When this become part of the community and find called me the R-word “Our hope is to create and promote advocating for herself.and I told him not convention is over, return to your chapters equitable opportunities wherever they to. The teacher was in the hallway and opportunities for people to be embraced, “One time, I was in class and someone with renewed energy, new ideas and a determight live,” he said. another student repeated the word,” she become part of the community and find called me the R-word and I told him not mination to ensure that AEPi is not merely Meyers first came to know Stern said. Rather than letting the situation go, equitable opportunities wherever they to. The teacher was in the hallway and present on your campus but dominating through her mother, Amy Silverman, who she told her theater teacher, who was able might live,” he said. another student repeated the word,” she campus life.” read her personal essays about raising a to intervene. Meyers first came to know Stern Rather than letting the situation go, Chief executive officer Rob Derdiger daughter with Down syndrome on KJZZ, said. “If someone has a Convention. disability, saying through herbrothers, mother,staff Amy More than 500 AEPi andSilverman, alumni visit who Phoenix she for the 113th told herInternational theater teacher, who was able took the stage next to celebrate the many National Public Radio’s Phoenix affiliate COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS the R-word is like saying the F-word,” read her personal essays about raising a to intervene. accomplishments of AEPi brothers this year. station. Stern said. Israel’s first gold. Firestone was Israel’s first financial donations to the AEPi Foundation, daughter with Down syndrome on KJZZ, “If someone has a disability, saying He said AEPi has a presence on nearly Meyers wastososurvive captivated by the essays performing in the musical finalistthe inWhile the skeleton worldsaying championship they enable AEPi thrive,” National Public Radio’sand Phoenix affiliate R-word is like the F-word,” 7,000 college campuses across the world that he reached out to Silverman, and the “Hairspray,” she had another occasion in 2025, and he earned the country’s best Derdiger said. station. Stern said. and boasts a network of more than two became friends. to tangle with the offensive word, which Olympics placement for the sport in 2026, With everyone in the room on their feet, Meyers was so captivated by the essays While performing in the musical 100,000 alumni. That’s how Stern first learned of the appears in the script. receiving the honor of serving as Israel’s flag Derdiger began counting from one and that he reached out to Silverman, and the “Hairspray,” she had another occasion Sophie Stern at her high school graduation in 2022 Derdiger praised many brothers who travopen brothers council seat, there’s COURTESY OF SOPHIE STERN really bad and my friend said bearerto at“That’s the Cortina ceremony. instructed to sitbut down oncenohedoubt two became friends. tangle with opening the offensive word, which eled to Israel to assist communities affected she earned her position, Meyers said. Other it on stage. I was not OK with that, so I speakers throughout the four-day reached That’s the number of conventions they how Stern first learned of the appears in the script. Heart Can’t Even It: A Story of Sophie Stern at her highBelieve school graduation in 2022 by the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks, as well as the To become a council member, Stern to theZach director and told her it was Science, eventwent included Sage Fox, a conhad attended. open council seat, but there’s no doubt COURTESY OF SOPHIE STERN Love and Down Syndrome,” “That’s really bad and my friend said nearly $800,000 raised for philanthropic had to apply and demonstrate that she had a bad word forfor people with disabilities, known his OK advocacy for so I Silverman’s book about her daughter. Undergraduates, graduate students, AEPi she earned her position, Meyers said. tent creator it on stage. I was not with that, causes over the last year, $130,000 of which valuable tosupreme contribute, he said. Heart Can’t Even Believe It: A Story of but she wouldn’t take it out,” Stern Israel and fighting antisemitism; Ronnen staff, something chapter leaders and board To become a council member, Stern went to the director and told her itsaid. Gesher’s speakers’ bureau, Damon was When was raised during a single month of giving. “She’s on the council because she Science, Love and Down Syndrome,” She let her mother know about the Harary, a television and film producer who members sequentially took their seats until had to apply and demonstrate that she had Brooks & Associates, was asked to find a bad word for people with disabilities, Silverman’s AEPi brothers swabbed over 6,000 people deserves to be on the council,” he said. book about her daughter. conflictSpin and Master, they were able to convince co-founded the children’s only two remained. Sidney “Sid” Dunn was something valuable to contribute, he said. but she wouldn’t take it out,” Stern said. a speaker about Down syndrome for an to join the Gift of Life bone marrow registry Stern for is creating ahislife58th andconvencareer asentertainment a the When Gesher’s speakers’ bureau, Damon director of the need to remove the company behind “PAW recognized attending “She’s on the council because she She let her mother know about the event this spring, Hummell first asked this year, and 200 brothers became Repair member ofCohen her community, which makes Brooks & Associates, was asked to find word from the script. Patrol” and other well-known titles; and tion, then Philip received an ovation deserves to be on the council,” he said. conflict and they were able to convince Silverman to speak, thinking Stern might the World community ambassadors, hosting her a great addition. a speaker about Down syndrome for an “My friend Al was next to me when Ben Pargman, founder of Manny’s Band in recognition of his 68th annual convention. Stern is creating a life and career as a the director of the need to remove the be too young. over 1,200 community service programs. Stern graduated fromofMcClintock I told the director and he his gaveson me the event this spring, Hummell first asked Foundation, who spoke about “There is a reason that so many us keepmakes member of her community, which word from the script. They decided instead that Stern should In total, AEPi brothers logged more than High School in Tempe last yearsaid. and now biggest hug ever and said that he loved Silverman to speak, thinking Stern might Manny, a former AEPi brother who took coming back year over year,” Derdiger her a great addition. “My friend Al was next to me when tell her own story; it’s a real bonus that 130,000 hours of community service this Glendale Community College, me so much,” Stern said. Sadly, Al died be too young. his own life in 2024. “Thisattends is the time and the place to exchange Stern graduated from McClintock I told the director and he gave me the she is not afraid of public speaking. year, hosting more than 17,000 individual focus on dance. She is a to regularOver a car crashorganizations on Oct. 24, 2021. They decided instead that Stern should 30 partner inforideas,with best apractices experiences, High School inand Tempe last year and now in biggest hug ever and saidran that he loved “It’s not the same when someone programs on college campuses in the form at Detour Company Theatre, “That was hard; it’s very hard to get mative booths throughout the convention tell own story; it’s a real bonus that inspireperformer and empower one another to reach attends Glendale Community College, me so much,” Stern said. Sadly, Al died tries her to tell a person’s story for them,” of Shabbat dinners, fundraisers, holiday a Scottsdale theatre company for adults emotions out and I was very, very upset,” to help brothers get involved outside of new heights.” she is not afraid of public speaking. with a focus on dance. She is a regular in a car crash on Oct. 24, 2021. gatherings, social events and more. Hummell said. with intellectual, developmental and she said. school, and much of the week’s programOnce Derdiger left the stage, attendees “It’s not the same when someone performer at Detour Company Theatre, “That was hard; it’s very hard to get “We’re the top provider of programming Additionally, helping people with physicaltodisabilities. On theonrecent anniversary of his death, tries ming focused strategies to show Jewish were treated a video message by Israel’s to tell a person’s story for them,” a Scottsdale theatre company for adults emotions out and I was very, very upset,” disabilities for Jewish students on college campuses,” jobs was one of the reasons In fact, Stern attended her first Stern madeequipping a cake and took it to the Hummell find pride on campus, student leaders ambassador to thewhen United States, Dr. Yechiel said. with intellectual, developmental and she said. Derdiger said. for acquiring the bureau. Unemployment meeting in January, she and couldn’t crash to site. with tools improve operations, Leiter,council followed by a story of triumph helping people with physical disabilities. On the recent chapter anniversary of his death, in Additionally, “What we do reaches beyond each of the disability community is upwards waitfrom to tellJared people of her involvement with “I don’t know how I did it the without disabilities advocating for Israel and reinforcing resilience Firestone, nicknamed find jobs one of the reasons In fact, when Stern attended her first Stern made a cake and took it to the of 75% and of that was our individual chapters,” Baden said. “Our percentage, 75% are and share information about fraternity’s its crying. I’m so proud of myself,” she said. for acquiring the bureau. commitment to tikkun olam. “The Detour Jewish Jet.” Unemployment council meeting in January, she couldn’t crash site. fraternity continues to make*Best impacts not of Magazine willing and able to work — but upcoming shows. Amytheme Hummell, executive director of ready, of the convention was Born and raised in ofSouth Florida, withA major in the disability community is upwards wait to tell people her involvement *AnnualtheDirectory “I don’t know how I did it without haven’t been given only on our campuses, but also in our local opportunity, “There’s no question that she is going Gesher Disability Resources, agreed that of 75% and of that percentage, retaining and spreading Jewish pride on Firestone represented Team Israel in the **Annual Directory 75% are Detour and share information about its crying. I’m so proud of myself,” she said. communities and beyond.” said. **Best of Magazine to event thrive,” Meyers “She’s Stern is a good fit for ADDPC because Hummell campuses. skeleton at the Milano said. Cortina 2026 very *Best of Magazine ready, willing and able to work — but upcoming shows. Amy Hummell, executive director of Derdiger especially highlighted the “People have it in them to speak up but gregarious and passionate about the“It’softough her ability to self-advocate. out there. It’s tough on the Winter Olympics. haven’t been given the opportunity, “There’s no question that she is going Gesher Disability Resources, agreed that **Annual Directory fraternity’s largest financial supporter: its that matter to her.” Hummell co-hostedin aour book event don’t know how, and often they’re not streets,Stern on our comduring law very WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM Afterthings tosurviving thrive,”a mini-stroke Meyers said. “She’s is acampuses good fitand for ADDPC because Hummell said. own alumni. with Meyers a said. few “But years adversity ago for “My cheered on. Sophie has family support Stern looks forward to sharing insights munities,” Farbman school,gregarious Firestone went on to earn eight med“People have it in them to speak up but and passionate about the of her ability to self-advocate. “Through their lifelong dedication to WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM has never silenced us, it has never caused als at Olympic qualifying circuits, including don’t know how, and often they’re not things that matter to her.” Hummell co-hosted a book event our fraternity and our mission, and their WWW.JEWISHAZ.COM AEPi to retreat. We are leaders, builders and OFFICE HOURS has family support Stern looks forward to sharing insights with Meyers a few years ago for “My cheered on. Sophie HEADLINES ...........................................2 SOPHIE STERN
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Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley President Sarah Jane Feldman said, “I’ve met many people today who wanted to learn more about the temple, some from as far away as Tucson.” Attendees who purchased their ticket through a link on CJP’s website received a white baseball cap with D-Backs written in Hebrew. Another popular giveaway was a folding fan, given out by Temple Solel, and Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley passed out slips of paper with the lyrics to “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” in both English and Yiddish. Rabbi Dovber Dechter, co-director of Chabad of Downtown Phoenix, helped men wrap tefillin. Neil and Dena Bashist are New York Yankees fans from the Borough Park neighborhood in Brooklyn, who recently moved to Arizona. Neil said that his grandfather was the first kosher butcher in their Brooklyn neighborhood, and he claimed to know the secret to making an egg cream: “Milk first.” He joked that he came for the hat giveaway, but then he admitted they were there to support the Jewish community. Kayla Shuch said she found out about the game from Gesher Disability Resources. She said she had just worked three days straight at the Arizona Science Center but decided to come back downtown for the game on her day off. Eric Cooper came to the ballpark specifically for this event. Michael Sandler comes regularly to Diamondbacks games. “I was thrilled to death when I heard about Jewish Community Day,” he said. He shared he was first in line to get in when the gates opened, waiting in the 100-plus-degree heat. Mindy Comitor was late getting to the park because the light rail train she and her three friends were riding on broke down. The group had to walk more than a mile to get to the stadium and she was upset that she missed the first pitch and the national anthem but said that she was happy she could watch it when she got home because she was recording it. Still, she and her friends were grateful to make it and support the community. “We’re here representing the Jewish community of Sun City,” she said. As has become tradition during Jewish Community Day, the first pitch was thrown out by a Holocaust survivor. This year the defenders of the Jewish people.” “Many of us have experienced the harsh realities of being a Jewish student on college campuses over the past two years,” Baden said. “We’ve seen protests, we face hostility and we’ve had moments when standing up for who we are is not always easy. Through it all, my AEPi brothers stood beside me, making those difficult times a little bit brighter.” During Friday night’s Shabbat dinner, Daniel S. Mariaschin was presented with the Arthur and Simi Teich Award for Distinguished Alumni Achievement. JEWISHAZ.COM
honor went to 91-year-old survivor Sam Wagman. Wagman survived more than a year of imprisonment in the Wengrow Ghetto in Poland before being deported to the Buchenwald concentration camp. He and his mother escaped the camp and hid for the next two years in the woods until Soviet troops liberated them at the end of the war. Of his extended family of 50 people, he and his mother were the only survivors and the only known survivors of the Wengrow Ghetto. Wagman immigrated to the U.S. in 1950 and graduated high school in New Jersey before serving in the United States Air Force. He moved to Phoenix in 1970, where he spent his mornings hiking Camelback Mountain — three times each day — totaling more than 34,000 times. He only recently started sharing his story through the Phoenix Holocaust Association. “I didn’t tell anybody for 50 years; I was taught to be quiet and not to be seen during the war, and before the war,” he said during an interview that aired on 12News before the game. He said his traumatic past keeps him avoiding crowds, but he had been practicing for the pitch. “I’m not nervous, but I’m not comfortable,” he admitted. Wagman did not need to be concerned. When he took the field and was introduced, he received a standing ovation from the crowd, and their cheering was deafening as he threw the ball across the plate. This was also his first time attending a professional baseball game. “The reception to our on-field, pregame honors was so incredibly robust and positive,” said Andrea Cohen, senior director, Jewish life at CJP. “When they announced his (Wagman’s) military service and the crowd roared in appreciation, I was overwhelmed.” Before the first pitch, the large videoboards broadcast “Timeout Against Hate.” The video, created by Robert Kraft’s nonprofit Blue Square Alliance Against Hate, is a sports-focused initiative calling for reflective “timeouts” during games to actively oppose hate. There was also a table passing out the “blue square” pins that have become a universal symbol of allyship against Jewish hate and all forms of bigotry. Paradise Valley native and Division I baseball player who recently graduated from Stanford University in California, Ethan Hott, is a Blue Square Athlete Ambassador. Then, on Saturday, Adam Cohen was installed as AEPi’s 78th supreme master, 22 years after his first convention, also in Phoenix in 2004. An evening gala banquet rounded out the week’s programming, honoring past supreme master Gary Shapiro with the Order of the Lion, AEPi’s highest honor. AEPi’s 114th International Convention is scheduled to take place in Orlando, Florida, from Aug. 4 to 8, 2027. JN
He is pursuing his master’s degree at the University of Southern California. “Competing at the highest level of collegiate sports, I’ve come to know the unifying power of sports firsthand. As a Blue Square Athlete Ambassador, I hope to continue leveraging that power while encouraging others to celebrate their faith proudly and stand united against hate,” he said in a previous interview with Jewish News. Before the game began, Israeli musician Erez Kessler and Beth El Phoenix Cantor Sarah Bollt led the Jewish Community Youth Choir singing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and three kids from the community participated in the Hot Dog Derby. In this live and virtual scoreboard race, the children wear oversized condiment costumes representing ketchup, mustard and relish. Children were also invited to participate in the “7th Inning Stretch,” singing and dancing on the dugouts. “Our choir and community leaders were embraced by the crowd, and it was such a positive day of Jewish pride!” said Cohen. Perhaps the more than 800 members of the Jewish community in attendance celebrating their Jewish pride were also a good-luck charm for the Diamondbacks. The team won 4-2 against the Dodgers, who currently lead the National League West division. JN Jewish News is published by the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix, a component of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix.
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ASU Hillel receives $10 million gift toward new student center JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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he Levine Family Foundation has committed a $10 million naming gift to Hillel at Arizona State University’s (ASU Hillel) ongoing capital campaign, “A Home for our Next Generation,” greatly accelerating the campaign’s timeline as it strives to fund a new Jewish student center on campus. “This is a really historic moment for Jewish life at Arizona State University and in the Valley, to have a flagship facility like this that welcomes students from all backgrounds,” said Debbie Yunker Kail, executive director of ASU Hillel. “It’s going to be a symbol that we’re here and that our community believes in its students. When the community members invest in this project, it’s so much more than a building, it’s really investing in the Jewish future.” ASU Hillel’s current student center at 1012 S. Mill Avenue in Tempe was built in 1981, providing a nearly 3,700-squarefoot facility for Jewish life at ASU. However, the community lounge space
can only fit around six to eight students around a table, and Shabbat dinner space is also limited. With the amount of Jewish students enrolled at ASU that are interested in Hillel programs, the organization has long since outgrown its current facility. “This is just one of those now-morethan-ever moments where Jewish students need a safe place to gather, be together and realize that they’re not alone,” Yunker Kail said. “We don’t want that gathering to be inhibited by space in the ways that it currently is.” The “A Home for our Next Generation” campaign aims to raise $25 million to construct the new facility to be the center of Jewish life at ASU for generations to come. Close to $5 million has already been committed to the campaign, including $1.5 million from Barry and Barbara Zemel, who have supported ASU Hillel for over 40 years. The Levines’ $10 million gift, one of
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ASU students gather at the current ASU Hillel student center for Shabbat.
the largest recorded gifts to a local Hillel across the United States, brings the campaign more than halfway to its goal, with $10 million yet to raise. “The Levines have been supportive of Hillel in the past, and when Jonathan and Polly came to see the building most recently, they were really excited to hear what was going on with the capital project,” Yunker Kail said. “Being in the building, they were able to see what limitations our facility has, how it’s limiting the types of community that we’re trying to build and the potential of what we could do with something new.” “We are honored to support a new and expanded Hillel center on the campus of ASU that will serve students for years to come,” said Jonathan Levine. “A larger home for community, learning, leadership and connection will allow Hillel to enrich the lives of Jewish students.” Though ASU Hillel has not shared a timeline for construction of the new building, the plan is to build it on Hillel’s current property on S. Mill Avenue, and conceptual floor plans can be found on the capital campaign’s website. After operating out of the 3,700-squarefoot building for 45 years, the new building is expected to provide approximately 30,000 square feet for safe and engaging student programming. The building will provide several open spaces for student activity, including flexible space for casual gatherings, a kosher catering kitchen, a coffee shop, a large social hall with the potential to host festive holiday meals and large social gatherings, as well as a chapel and garden on the roof which could be used for holiday services and outdoor Shabbat dinners. “We want a lot of different things to be
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happening in the building all at once — study groups, meetings, classes that Hillel is teaching, students studying or hanging out independently,” Yunker Kail said. “If we know anything, we know the Jewish community is quite diverse, so having a space where Jews can gather and do all different types of things under one roof is really one of the main ways that we show what it means to be a Jewish community.” Additionally, various planned classrooms and meeting spaces will accommodate classes and student groups. They can even be rented by other organizations around the local and campus community. “We are designing this with an eye towards rentable space for the whole community,” Yunker Kail said. “The spaces that we’re building are important for students, but they’ll also be available for the whole community to use to gather.” The naming gift from the Levine Family Foundation carries a “dollar-for-dollar” matching component, encouraging additional community participation to help reach the campaign’s goal. Many more naming opportunities are available for various areas in the new building, including the lobby lounge, multipurpose room, chapel, gardens and kitchen. “Fundraising is really active now and we’re eager to be in a new space as soon as possible,” Yunker Kail said. “This is a way that community members can show their commitment to the next generation of Jewish leaders. There’s going to be a lot of opportunities for local community members to participate, as well as ASU alumni from around the world.” JN For more information, visit hillelasu.org/ buildthefuture. JEWISHAZ.COM
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NCJW AZ chapter becomes independent, rebrands as Jewish Women’s Action Alliance Arizona MALA BLOMQUIST | MANAGING EDITOR
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or more than 100 years, the National Council of Jewish Women Arizona (NCJW AZ) has worked to advance social justice, protect human and constitutional rights and respond to the needs of diverse communities throughout the state of Arizona. The nonprofit traces its roots to Jewish women who helped establish several community institutions over the decades, including Jewish Family & Children’s Service, Child Crisis Arizona and the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). But as of July 1, the Arizona chapter officially severed its affiliation with the national organization and changed its name to the Jewish Women’s Action Alliance Arizona (JWAAA). The change came about after declining to participate in a restructuring instituted by the national organization. “We wanted to retain our fiduciary authority and responsibility to this organization that we have built over the years,” said Civia Tamarkin, president of JWAAA. “We have always been registered as an autonomous nonprofit in Arizona.” Tamarkin said the National Council of Jewish Women, Inc. began transitioning several years ago from its long-standing federated model in favor of a consolidated single legal entity, a move she said has been adopted by other national nonprofit organizations. Local groups were presented with three options: dissolve and merge into the national organization, qualify for a new affiliate model under specific financial and staffing requirements or disaffiliate. Arizona leaders agreed that the first two options did not fit their organization. “We did not want to merge and integrate, and we certainly didn’t want to dissolve,” Tamarkin said. “That left us the option of disaffiliating.” According to Tamarkin, maintaining Arizona’s independent nonprofit status allows the organization to continue filing lawsuits, submitting amicus briefs, participating on advisory councils and responding quickly to state legislative issues without seeking approval from a national office. The decision also protects one of the organization’s signature initiatives, Ruth Place, a community recovery center that addresses trauma resulting from childhood sexual abuse, incest, sexual assault and trafficking. Tamarkin shared that preserving the program was one of the board’s highest priorities during the restructuring discussions. “Ruth Place meets an enormous critical need in the community. There has never been a program like this. We needed to JEWISHAZ.COM
preserve its sustainability and expansion,” she said. “No one would have the same passion for it that we have.” While the organization has adopted a new name, Tamarkin said its mission will remain largely unchanged. The group intends to continue its work on reproductive health care, immigration, public education, voting rights, LGBTQ+ rights and church-state separation, with a focus on Arizona policy rather than national campaigns. “We believe strongly that advocacy and transformational change percolates from the bottom up instead of the top down,” Tamarkin said. Tamarkin said the Arizona organization has often pursued advocacy beyond the national organization’s scope. She pointed to its role as a field partner in the successful campaign supporting Proposition 139, the constitutional amendment protecting abortion rights in Arizona, as well as filing an amicus brief opposing the 1864 neartotal abortion ban on religious freedom grounds and winning an injunction against the state’s fetal personhood law. “We have moved on a far more aggressive advocacy level than just creating awareness about the availability of abortion access,” she said. “Now, we focus more on access to contraception. We would like to work on legislation that would give long-range prescriptions for contraception.” The organization has also worked on humane immigration policies — campaigning to provide powers of attorney, both for personal property and temporary custody — for those who are at risk of detention and encouraged civic engagement through voter education and legislative monitoring. As a local organization, they are also aware of what is going on in the public school system and monitor activities at board meetings, such as when the Deer Valley Unified School District governing board member Kimberly Fisher raised her arm in a Nazi salute at a May 26 board meeting. “We spoke out calling for Fisher’s resignation, but that’s what we do as a local organization as opposed to what the national organization would do,” said Tamarkin. “We partner with Save Our Schools Arizona and the Arizona Education Association on many things. We have worked to modify the ESA voucher system because there hasn’t been any accountability for that or monitoring of it.” In Arizona, an ESA voucher refers to an Empowerment Scholarship Account,
which lets families use state tax dollars to pay for private school tuition, tutoring or educational therapies. A May 2026 state audit revealed that millions of dollars in taxpayer funds were auto-approved or misspent, and that roughly 34% of sampled transactions lacked proper documentation or involved unallowable expenses like travel, food and unauthorized equipment. “We’re committed to expanding our efforts,” Tamarkin said. “We want to maintain our ability to respond quickly to issues affecting Arizona.” Although JWAAA will no longer operate under the NCJW name, Tamarkin emphasized that the separation was not intended as criticism of the national organization. “Every nonprofit has to do what they feel compelled to do for sustainability and growth,” she said. “This is a difficult time for nonprofits.” Tamarkin, a former award-winning investigative journalist and CNN executive, first became involved with NCJW AZ in 2017 after the organization held a screening
The Jewish Women’s Action Alliance Arizona board of directors at their annual retreat.
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of her documentary on reproductive rights, “Birthright: A War Story.” She said the group’s new identity reflects its ongoing priorities. “That’s why we put ‘Action’ into the title,” said Tamarkin. “We will continue to advocate on a local, grassroots level — and do it with more determination than ever.” JN For more information, visit jwaaa.org.
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Backpack Buddies provides essential school items to more than 2,000 Title I students JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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ackpack Buddies, a program of the Baptist Hospitals and Health Systems (BHHS) Legacy Foundation, held one of its signature annual events at Phoenix College on July 21-23, providing thousands of students from low-income families across Maricopa County with essential school items and health checkups their parents may not otherwise have been able to afford. “We really believe in the mission of serving Title I students and foster care families, giving them a head start so they get to go to school, just like everybody else, with dignity and pride,” said Janette Lopez, Backpack Buddies program manager. A “Title I” school is deemed such because it serves a high number, or high percentage, of children from lowincome families. It also receives federal financial assistance through the Arizona Department of Education. Backpack Buddies provides essential clothing, shoes, hygiene items and school supplies to children in Title I schools, foster care and military families across Maricopa County and beyond. It also facilitates 10 Emergency Clothing Closets on school campuses across Maricopa County and leads programs such as the Legacy Library literacy initiative and Stitches of Love that provides hand-sewn clothing and accessories. Backpack Buddies holds three signature events throughout the year. Two take place at Luke Air Force Base to serve military families. The third, serving Title I schools and foster care families, used to take place at Grand Canyon University, but moved to Phoenix College two years ago. Lopez oversees the entire program, including inventory ordering, working
directly with school districts and foster care groups to register more than 2,000 kids and facilitating communication with other nonprofits involved in the event. She is working with the Phoenix Symphony and Ballet Arizona to expand Backpack Buddies to include sensory items for children with disabilities and trips to see shows. The first two and a half days of the July event were dedicated to Title I school districts. The afternoon of July 23 was specifically for foster care students. Backpack Buddies works mainly with Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation and a few other organizations to register foster families. The event is set up like a giant department store. “The children arrive by bus, they get paired up with a personal shopper and they go through all the different departments,” Lopez said. They get fitted for school uniforms and backpacks, they can choose books and activities at the learning zone and they get their vision and teeth checked by volunteers from Midwestern University’s College of Optometry and College of Dental Medicine. Kids then pick out handmade clothing courtesy of the Stitches of Love program. Legacy Foundation purchases all the materials, and about 100 volunteers sew clothing throughout the year to be given away for free. St. Mary’s Food Bank provides lunch. “We don’t really allow the parents to come, we just want it to be fun for the kids,” Lopez said. Most of the volunteers came from the National Charity League (NCL) and Boys Team Charity, but many
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other organizations sent their staff for a morning or afternoon shift, including the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix (CJP). “Tikkun olam is so important and this is such a great opportunity to help all these kids get things that are necessities for school that their families probably can’t afford,” said Marcy Lewis, director of family and volunteer engagement at CJP. “We’re just doing our little bit of goodness in the world.” Lewis previously volunteered for this event four years ago with her family when it was held at GCU. “It’s been four years, and this day has stuck with me,” she said. “I coordinate CJP to be a volunteer organization and when I got the opportunity to take this role on, I knew that this was one of the first events I wanted to do because it’s so special.” The event served 2,200 kids over three days from 120 schools in 32 Title I districts.
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Since the event was held at Phoenix College this year, the professor who runs the 3D printing lab volunteered to run a booth where he printed 3D items for the kids. On Tuesday, kids also got to interact with animals, including snakes, and on Wednesday, they got to try out virtual reality headsets. “We want to expose these kids to the fact that education is a possibility,” Lopez said. “It’s something within their reach. We want to expose them to the campus, things that the college offers that they may not otherwise get to see, so they can know that going to college is a possibility; it’s not just a dream.” JN For more information, visit bhhslegacy.org/ backpack-buddies/. Jewish News is published by the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix, a component of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix.
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Backpack Buddies event for Title I schools and foster care children at Phoenix College
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Chabad of Moon Valley launches ‘The Neighborhood Hebrew School’ JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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aking place at the North Mountain Visitor Center in Phoenix, Chabad of Moon Valley is presenting a reimagined Jewish educational experience for Valley families. “In today’s climate, giving a child the joy of Judaism, showing them the beauty of our heritage and instilling in them a pride in their identity is the most precious gift we can give them,” said Chabad of Moon Valley Rabbi Schneur Wolfman. A c c o r d i n g t o Wo l f m a n , “ T h e Neighborhood Hebrew School” combines the best parts of camp, community and learning from dedicated, professional staff members. Over the past two years, Chabad of Moon Valley’s Jewish Kids Club (JKC) has seen participation from more than 60 children at hands-on workshops, community events and holiday celebrations made possible through partnerships with local organizations. The JKC is open to all families, but since programs are centered primarily on teaching children about Jewish holidays, some community members requested a more regularly recurring educational experience for their children. “This idea developed after many conversations with local families,” Wolfman said of the Hebrew school’s conception. “Parents repeatedly asked when we would open a Hebrew school where children could learn consistently and build Jewish friendships on a weekly basis.” Director Esther Wolfman has a bachelor’s degree in education and previously directed TevaTots Preschool and Camp Canyon in Flagstaff. The Hebrew school is open to children ages 3 to 13, as the program utilizes a mixture of the arts, technology and hands-on projects. The curriculum is designed to equip students with knowledge of Hebrew readings and Jewish history, foster a connection to Israel, instill Jewish values and prepare them for a bar or bat mitzvah. Wolfman pointed out that American Jewish institutions spent over $750 million to secure synagogues and schools in 2025. “We want to pour that same energy, time and heart into making sure Judaism and Israel are safe and beloved in the hearts of our children,” he said. The North Mountain Visitor Center can support many different types of Jewish learning in modern classrooms, a library and an open-air amphitheater. “It is a dream setting for kids to learn
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and grow,” Wolfman said. All Jewish children are welcome, regardless of denomination or synagogue affiliation. “We believe labels are for clothing, not people,” Wolfman said. “The Jewish community is one family, regardless of your background.” Tuition for the program costs $650 per child plus a one-time $50 registration fee. Those who registered before Aug. 10 received 10% off every child enrolled. After Aug. 10, those registering multiple children will receive 5% off for the second and third child. Scholarships and payment plans are also available. “Jewish education shouldn’t be a luxury. It should be affordable, accessible and open to every family,” Wolfman said. After enrolling a child, parents also benefit by joining a network of local Jewish families that can easily connect and support one another. As of Aug. 4, 10 children were already
enrolled, and the goal is to begin the school year with approximately 20 students. “Our goal is for children to feel that Judaism belongs to them. We want them to gain real knowledge and skills while developing pride in who they are and a strong connection to the Jewish people and Israel,” Wolfman said. “We want Jewish learning to be something they enjoy, understand and carry with them beyond the classroom.” As the Hebrew school prepares for its initial year, parents and community members are encouraged to participate from the very beginning. “If raising the next generation of proud Jews is something you care deeply about and would like to be a founding partner or contribute to this initiative, please reach out,” Wolfman said. JN For more information, visit jewishmoonvalley.com/ school or email rabbi@jewishmoonvalley.com.
A workshop from one of Chabad of Moon Valley’s Jewish Kids Club gatherings. COURTESY OF CHABAD OF MOON VALLEY
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Submission Deadline: by 9 a.m. on October 15, 2026 Contact Sheryl Quen, Vice President, Community Impact at squen@phoenixcjp.org with questions, to discuss your application or schedule a meeting at https://calendly.com/squen-phoenixcjp/30min.
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AUGUST 21, 2026
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Immersive, state-of-the-art Titanic exhibition opens in Scottsdale JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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reater Phoenix residents are invited to experience the full story of the R.M.S Titanic from its triumphant departure to its tragic final moments in a brand new exhibition featuring life-size models, over 300 artifacts and immersive re-creations at The Galleria, 4301 N. Scottsdale Road #150 in Scottsdale. Produced by Exhibition Hub, the manufacturer of more than 350 experiences around the world that have hosted more than 45 million visitors, “Titanic: An Immersive Voyage” analyzes the many leadership failures, warnings and safety lessons from one of the largest maritime disaster in history, which still shape maritime laws over a century later. “The goal of the exhibition is to provide a new way to experience the story,” said Jessica Sanders, Exhibition Hub host. “Yes, there are cases and words on walls, but there are also immersive environments with the idea that people are able to experience the story and not just witness it.” The exhibition opened on July 3, the anniversary of the conclusion of the British inquiry into the disaster, and it will be open until the end of the year. Sanders said she was initially interested in the archeological aspects of the Titanic, but she became more compelled by the many human stories. Graphics throughout the exhibition show how the Titanic not only affected one group, but it was an international tragedy, with 40 countries and various ethnic groups represented on the ship. This includes at least 69 documented Jewish passengers, most of whom were Eastern European immigrants traveling in third class. White Star Line was known to cater to Jewish dietary regulations, providing a kosher menu and a separate cook for kosher meals. Notable Jewish passengers were Benjamin Guggenheim, an American businessman, and Isidor Straus, co-owner of Macy’s and his wife, Ida. “The Strauses became the leading story of sacrifice, honor and dignity,” Sanders said. “His refusing to take the seat of a younger man, and her refusing to leave his side represent much of the sacrifice that makes this a significant story.” A bronze memorial plaque dedicated to Isidor and Ida Straus is located inside the Macy's Herald Square flagship store in Manhattan, New York. The sinking of the “unsinkable ship” led to design changes in the world’s largest ships, requirements for enough lifeboats for all passengers and crew, 8
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24-hour monitoring of distress signals, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the U.S. Coast Guard International Ice Patrol (IIP), created specifically to track icebergs and prevent maritime disasters, among many other modern maritime practices. “One of the misconceptions about Titanic is that it was sunk just by an iceberg,” Sanders said. “The iceberg was the catalyst, but it was really a combination of failures.” The exhibition begins with a display detailing Harland & Wolff, the shipbuilding company that designed and constructed the Titanic in Belfast, Northern Ireland. After lear ning about the ship’s construction, the exhibition provides background on the infamous iceberg that drifted into its path. As the Titanic continued its maiden voyage through the North Atlantic, the ice it encountered had ventured further south than any in the area during the 50 years prior. Interactive kiosks allow visitors to go deeper into the parts of the story that interest them the most, including personal stories of the 2,223 souls aboard the ship. Visitors can walk through various lifesize re-creations of rooms on the Titanic, including a first-class cabin, the grand staircase, dining room, first-class café, the Marconi radio room and the bridge. The exhibition even has the painted Turkish bath tiles used on the ship and golden banister ornaments, as well as many other architectural details. The wireless operators were employed by the Marconi Company, and after they had fixed the wireless telegraph earlier on the day of the tragedy, they prioritized sending high-profile passenger messages to the mainland, although they also did pass along ice warnings from other ships in the area. “Marconi was cutting-edge for its time, so the first-class passengers thought it was quite the posh thing to send messages from the middle of the ocean,” Sanders said. A view from the crow’s nest shows just how difficult it was to see the approaching iceberg. Despite warnings and minimal visibility, the Titanic traveled at nearly full speed (22 knots) through the North Atlantic. “It was a moonless night, and the seas were calm, so there wasn’t any splashing for them to recognize,” Sanders explained. “When they saw the iceberg, they saw it as an absence of stars on the horizon. From that time, they had just about a minute.” The exhibition details that the crew lacked emergency preparedness training,
A model of the Titanic displayed at the “Titanic: An Immersive Voyage” exhibition at The Galleria. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS
A life-size re-creation of the Titanic’s grand staircase at the “Titanic: An Immersive Voyage” exhibition at The Galleria. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS
so many did not even know how to use the davit arms that raised and lowered the lifeboats. Sanders explained that the lifeboats were never even considered a lifesaving measure, as the perceived worst-case scenario was that the ship was immobile and the lifeboats could patiently ferry passengers to another ship. “Imagine you’re a woman with your children and your husband. They’re saying that the ship is sinking, but you feel like it’s pretty stable,” Sanders said. “They tell you to get into this swinging lifeboat hanging six stories above blackness. You’re going to be fine, but your husband can’t come with you. A lot of women just chose not to. Sometimes people don’t understand how much danger there is until it’s too late.” After the sinking, an American commission sought answers as to why the tragedy took place, followed by a longer British inquiry that lasted more than a month. Both concluded that the tragedy was not caused by one single thing. Both inquiries found that the ship carried the legally required number of lifeboats for the time, exposing the fact that maritime safety regulations had not evolved quickly enough for a ship of Titanic’s size.
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The exhibition concludes with a memorial gallery. When first entering, visitors are given a boarding pass with the name, age and reason for traveling of one of the Titanic’s passengers. In the memorial gallery, they finally learn whether the passenger on their boarding pass survived. Sanders explained that the memorial gallery changed how she viewed the tragedy, “just because of the number of crew and third-class passengers lost, compared to first and second class. It was just a gut punch for me that your state in life gave you more privilege to survive. And that theme is ongoing.” While 62% of the 324 first-class passengers survived, only 24% of the 1,620 third-class passengers and crew members did. The exhibition takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes to complete, all ages are welcome and it is ADA compliant. Included with the purchase of VIP tickets is a VR (virtual reality) experience that allows people to explore the wreck site, which only a handful of people have been able to do in person. JN For more information, visit expo-titanic.com/ scottsdale. JEWISHAZ.COM
RELIGIOUS LIFE
SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING AUGUST 21 - 6:49 P.M. AUGUST 28 - 6:40 P.M.
TORAH STUDY
Don’t chill out! RABBI MENDEL VAISFICHE PARSHAH KI TEITZEI: DEUTERONOMY 21:10-25:19
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malek. You may have heard of them. They were a nation during the time of the Rabbi Mendel Vaisfiche Exodus whom G-d COURTESY OF RABBI MENDEL VAISFICHE commanded the Jewish people to destroy. Why? You may ask. Many nations waged war against the Jewish people. Why did Amalek receive such an extreme and unique punishment? The Midrash offers an analogy: Imagine a pool filled with boiling water. The pool is so incredibly hot that everyone was terrified to go in it, lest they be burned. Then along comes a lunatic or an evildoer who willfully jumps directly into the boiling water. The consequence? He is severely burned.
Yet, by jumping in, he cools the water down just enough for others to lose their fear and jump in after him. So, too, when the Jewish people came out of Egypt, G-d split the sea before them and drowned the Egyptians within it. The fear of Israel fell upon all the nations. But when Amalek came and challenged them, although they received their due punishment, they cooled down the awe and fear that the other nations of the world felt toward the Jewish people. In our day and age, the commandment to physically obliterate Amalek no longer has practical application for multiple reasons. Yet, uniquely among all the battles the Jewish people fought, we are still commanded to remember every day what Amalek did to us so many centuries ago. Why? Because, as the Midrash points out, Amalek’s goal was, and still is, to make things cold, to cool everyone down, to diminish the warmth and excitement one
feels towards G-dliness. When everyone is excited about G-d and the great miracles He performed for the Jewish people as they left Egypt, Amalek comes along and says, “No big deal. What are you getting so excited about? Chill out.” And that is a battle we still contend with every day. You may have won yesterday’s battle. You may have done something good and changed the world for the better. But when a new day arrives, you are once again excited and energized to do more good, Amalek is there again, trying to dissuade you, trying to turn the temperature down, even if only by a single degree. (Because that is how it starts ...) Amalek whispers, “Chill out. Don’t get so excited about the mitzvah you’re about to perform, the candle you’re about to light or the Torah you’re about to learn. What’s the big deal anyway?” He’s constantly whispering in your ear. That is why G-d commands us to
SHABBAT ENDS AUGUST 22 - 7:44 P.M. AUGUST 29 - 7:35 P.M. Find area congregations at JewishAZ.com, where you can also find our 2026 Community Directory.
remember every day what Amalek did to us. The battle is ongoing. To be excited, passionate and intimately involved in the mission for which we were created. We cannot rely solely on what our parents or grandparents accomplished, or even on what we ourselves accomplished in the past. Every day, as we strive to perform more mitzvot, learn more Torah and make the world a better place, Amalek continues to wage war within our hearts. “Remember what Amalek did to you,” and make sure that, once again, you are victorious, with excitement and passion, in fulfilling G-d Almighty’s mission. JN Rabbi Mendel Vaisfiche is a certified mohel based in Scottsdale and the director of adult education at Chabad of Scottsdale.
OPINION
Commentary
An India-Israel corridor is the biggest Middle East story nobody is talking about DAN PERRY | JTA
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bout a month before the Oct. 7, 2023, massacres, the India-Middle EastEurope Economic Corridor, or IMEC, was unveiled at the G20 summit in New Delhi. Envisioned as a network of ports, railways, energy infrastructure, fiber-optic cables and logistics links connecting India to Europe through the Gulf and Israel, particularly Haifa, it was widely seen as the democratic world’s answer to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The original vision was elegantly simple. Goods would move from India across the Arabian Peninsula, through Saudi Arabia and Jordan, into Israel and onward through Haifa to Europe, bypassing both dangerous maritime bottlenecks and unstable countries such as Iraq, Syria and Lebanon – and building a wide-ranging tech ecosystem around the corridor. For Israel, IMEC has the potential to become the country’s most consequential strategic-economic project in decades – but the deal might be stillborn if Israel can’t engage in smart diplomacy and long-term thinking. “The question right now is whether Israel can be bypassed,” says former Knesset
member Doron Avital, the former commander of the elite Sayeret Matkal unit who has become one of the initiative’s leading advocates. Countries that become indispensable trade junctions attract investment precisely because businesses want to locate where capital, infrastructure and talent converge. If IMEC succeeds with Israel at its center, Haifa could evolve into the eastern Mediterranean’s principal logistics hub, while Israel’s strengths in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductors, desalination and energy technology would become integrated into supply chains stretching from Bangalore to Berlin. The corridor would export not only goods through Israel, but Israeli services, innovation and capital outward. The wars that have since consumed the Middle East have put the project essentially on ice – but the disruption to maritime trade in the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea have, if anything, also made it more urgently needed by all parties. The logic is indisputable. India is emerging as the world’s principal engine of economic growth. Europe, increasingly wary of its reli-
ance on Russia since it invaded Ukraine in 2022, is trying to diversify critical economic and energy relationships. And governments increasingly view supply chains not merely as instruments of commerce, but as matters of national security. Recent studies estimate that a completed corridor could reduce transit times between India and Europe by as much as 40% while cutting logistics costs by roughly 30%, lowering the cost of shipping a standard container to roughly $4,200 from around $6,000. Even at relatively modest volumes of 1.5 million containers annually, that would save approximately $2.7 billion every year in freight costs alone. History suggests those savings are only the beginning, as great trade corridors create ecosystems. A corridor linking Indian manufacturing, Gulf capital, Israeli technology and European markets could attract new business spanning three continents. For Israel, this is far more than an opportunity to collect transit fees at Haifa. IMEC could place the country inside the physical and digital architecture joining India, the world’s fastest-growing major economy, to
Europe’s single market. It could turn Israel from a smallish, politically exposed endpoint into a necessary junction for Asian-European trade, data, energy and investment. That status would give Europe, India and the Gulf a durable material stake in Israel’s stability and regional integration, while directing infrastructure, capital and employment toward Haifa, the Jezreel Valley and logistics hubs in the north. Moreover, a Saudi-Israeli normalization attached to a corridor of ports, railways, cables and energy links would become harder to reverse than a ceremonial agreement. Every train, customs arrangement, data connection and private investment would create constituencies with something concrete to lose from renewed estrangement. So normalization would be upgraded from a fragile political event into a structure of shared interests.JN This article has been edited for space. To read it in its entirety, visit jewishaz.com. 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.
A NOTE ON OPINION
We are a diverse community. The views expressed in these opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the views of the officers and boards of the Jewish Community Foundation, Center for Jewish 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 JEWISHAZ.COM
JEWISH NEWS
AUGUST 21, 2026
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SPECIAL SECTION HIGH HOLIDAYS
West Valley spiritual leader completes rabbinic ordination ahead of High Holidays JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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ev Ettelson, hazzan (cantor) and spiritual leader of Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley in Sun City West, completed his rabbinic ordination through The Rabbinical Academy (Mesifta Adath Wolkowisk) in May, and he is looking forward to leading his first High Holiday services as an ordained rabbi. “It’s a relief, and there’s a feeling of completion,” Ettelson said. “I had to wrestle with some feelings of self-doubt, whether this was really the path I wanted to be walking, but my life inevitably led to this point.” Ettelson was first inspired to become a rabbi by Reb. Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, founder of the Jewish Renewal movement and a pioneer in interfaith dialogue. The two met 35 years ago while Ettelson was working at Insight Meditation Society, a Buddhist retreat center in Barre, Massachusetts. After leaving to study in Israel for 15 months, Ettelson moved to Boulder,
Colorado, where he became a student of Schachter-Shalomi’s. “He kind of turned a light on for me, and I found my way back to Judaism and Jewish practice,” Ettelson said. He took one of Schachter-Shalomi’s classes, and the two occasionally met outside of class to discuss the lessons, among other life matters. “One day he asked me, ‘Have you considered becoming a rabbi?’ That got the process rolling, and it only took me 35 years to work it out,” Ettelson said. In recognition of his experience as a ba’al tefillah (master prayer leader), maggid (Torah storyteller) and life-cycle pastor at Boulder Aish Kodesh, where he served as interim spiritual leader for two years, Schachter-Shalomi granted Ettelson the title of Reverend six months before he died in 2014. “The title ‘Reverend’ is rarely used in contemporary synagogues, but it persists as a historical honorific primarily within traditional or older-established Orthodox
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and Sephardic congregations in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries for synagogue leaders, ministers and educators who do not hold formal rabbinic ordination,” Ettelson explained. Ettelson said he resisted becoming a rabbi at first, but after his mentor died, he told some of his rabbinic colleagues to hold him to it. Ettelson worked as a Jewish educator for many years, previously serving as a spiritual leader for a community in Boulder for about a year and a half, and most recently as a teacher at Tucson Hebrew Academy until July 2023, when he was hired to be the spiritual leader at Beth Emeth. “They wanted a rabbi, and they were willing to take a chance on me,” Ettelson said. “They hired me for my skills as a hazzan, but there was always the understanding that I would complete the rabbinic ordination. It just took me a little longer than anticipated.” The Rabbinical Academy of fered a unique, independent, nondenominational program individually tailored for people who had already cultivated careers as Jewish professionals, so it was perfect for Ettelson. Another of his most prominent mentors was his father. “He was my first teacher, and he always said to be proud of our heritage,”
Ettelson said. “We weren’t particularly observant in the home, but we always had Shabbat dinner and that meant a lot to me growing up.” Ettelson’s father attended the first High Holiday services he led at Beth Emeth over Zoom, but he passed away a few months later. “The fact that he was able to see that, I know how much nachas it gave him,” Ettelson said. “One of the things he said on his deathbed was, ‘Promise me that you’ll complete your rabbinic ordination.’ So that was really the thing that pushed me over the finish line.” Ettelson expressed appreciation for his colleagues, fellow community members and congregants for their support as he sought, and reached, this milestone. “The presidents (past and present), the board and the entire congregation have been warm, supportive and encouraging,” he said. Board member Gary Cohen had just returned from a trip to Israel with his wife when Ettelson was hired, recalling touching the Western Wall and becoming inspired to reconnect with his faith. Cohen praised Ettelson’s ef for ts to bring together different houses of worship during difficult times for the Jewish community. “This is a big deal. Not just for Lev; it’s a big deal for our community,” Cohen
“HE (REB. ZALMAN SCHACHTER-SHALOMI) KIND OF TURNED A LIGHT ON FOR ME, AND I FOUND MY WAY BACK TO JUDAISM AND JEWISH PRACTICE.” RABBI LEV ETTELSON
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AUGUST 21, 2026
JEWISH NEWS
JEWISHAZ.COM
SPECIAL SECTION HIGH HOLIDAYS
Rabbi Lev Ettelson stands before the ark at Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley in Sun City West. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS
said. “Lev has helped lead us through these difficult times. Every time there’s been an incident around the country, Lev has brought it up to us and we talk about it. When we listen to Lev, we learn.” “In the wake of the attack on Oct. 7, I reached out to different leaders in the community to organize an event at our congregation to come together for mutual support and solidarity,” Ettelson said. “We live in a time where antisemitism is on the rise and a lot of people are feeling unsafe. We have to stand together and create beautiful and positive experiences with one another and celebrate our traditions, life and community. That’s where our strength lies.” As he prepares to lead his first High Holiday services as an ordained rabbi, Ettelson said he feels an “added sense of responsibility” and began preparing his first sermon more than a month ahead of time. In addition to being a resource for the greater West Valley Jewish community, Ettelson’s plans for the future of the congregation also include increasing par ticipation among the younger generations. With its location in Sun City West, most Beth Emeth congregants are elderly. “We’re an older congregation, and we’ve sadly lost a few true leaders over the past year, so as Lev looks out over the JEWISHAZ.COM
congregation, there will be a few people sitting there who had their spouse with them last year,” Cohen said. “We help them through those difficult times, and Lev takes that lead.” Last year, Ettelson brought one of his musically inclined former students from Tucson to liven up the High Holiday services. “That was a wonderful influx of youthful energy,” he said. The congregation has recently added some younger families, and Ettelson has had the opportunity to perform a few baby namings. “There was so much joy,” he said. “To have this simcha, celebrating life after a couple of funerals was just incredible.” Other rabbis who influenced Ettelson during the course of his career include the rabbi at the synagogue he grew up at, Rabbi Samuel Dresner of Beth El Synagogue in Highland Park, Illinois, as well as Dresner’s mentor, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, and Rabbis David Zeller and David Cooper. Following his ordination, the congregation is hosting an installation ceremony on Oct. 25. Ettelson invited former colleague Rabbi Marc Soloway of Congregation Bonai Shalom in Boulder, Colorado, to lead the ceremony. JN For more information, visit bethemethaz.org.
JEWISH NEWS
AUGUST 21, 2026
11
SPECIAL SECTION HIGH HOLIDAYS
Scottsdale mother of two provides high-end, kosher catering for any event JOSH BOOTZIN | STAFF WRITER
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ael Hartenstein, founder and owner of MY Kosher Catering, always knew she loved to cook. She grew up in the Valley, always involved in Jewish youth groups, including both Hillel and Chabad while attending Arizona State University, and her family currently belongs to Congregation Beth Tefillah in Scottsdale. “I got my master’s in healthcare administration, but I always loved the kitchen and cooking,” Hartenstein said. “COVID hit, I was getting bored working at the hospital and an opportunity arose to take over the kitchen and help out at the synagogue. Then, when I was getting married at the end of 2021, I couldn’t find a kosher caterer.” It just so happened that Hartenstein was planning her wedding during a time of transition when it came to Greater Phoenix’s kosher catering industry. Susan and Saville Levy, owners of Simply Scrumptious Catering, had just retired, and BenLevi Catering closed a few years later.
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Around the same time, M Culinary Concepts, which had brought in the Levys to consult, had just catered its first kosher event. Hartenstein decided to fly in a chef from overseas for her wedding, who encouraged her to open her own business. Thus, she founded MY Kosher Catering, filling the gap in service for high-quality kosher catering in the Valley. Hartenstein has since catered everything from kiddush luncheons to b’nai mitzvahs, brises and weddings. “We do all the life milestones,” Hartenstein said. The part she enjoys most is “seeing the whole event come together from start to finish. Food brings people together, especially in the Jewish community.” Though Hartenstein filled a need when she opened her business, she still has a few competitors. She said she stands out from them because of the variety of food she’s able to prepare, in addition to bringing an elegant flair while remaining budget friendly. Hartenstein brings in different chefs to prepare many kinds of food, and she’s always working to expand food options. “It’s not just typical Jewish or Mediterranean; we can do anything,” she said. In an effort to expand to a different clientele, Hartenstein launched kosher hibachi this summer, a new offering that involves chefs bringing equipment to any location and cooking entire meals right in front of customers. The summer heat has delayed this service, but many customers have already booked dates for the fall. As a mother of two, she appreciates the advantages of a flexible schedule and maintaining a positive work-life balance. “I love the creativity, working with people in the community, and I feel
A table of catered food prepared by MY Kosher Catering.
like I’m giving back,” Hartenstein said. “Supporting me is supporting the local community, with us keeping kosher, going to synagogue and sending our kids to synagogue; the money circles back to the community.” This summer, she ran a promotion where any Jewish organization or
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synagogue that booked her services would receive 10% of the cost back as a donation. Hartenstein currently prepares food in advance at a commercial kitchen at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Scottsdale, but can also build her kitchen on site at events. In return for using the facilities, she caters all of Beth Tefillah’s events, describing the partnership as a “win-win.” A highlight from Hartenstein’s first few years in business was when she was invited to cater a corporate event at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain in Tucson. Interested parties can book MY Kosher Catering services through the company’s website, where they can also find a catering menu for the upcoming High Holidays. On Aug. 27, MY Kosher Catering is hosting a kosher Brazilian steakhouse experience at a private location in Paradise Valley. JN For more information, visit mykoshercatering.com.
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COMMUNITY
Understanding the Valley’s Jewish community The Arizona Faith Network presented its Community Hero Award 2025 to Detective Mike Hillman of the Phoenix Police Department on Tuesday, Dec. 2. Hillman was recognized for his role in the department’s Community Engagement Bureau. Paul Rockower, left, and Alan Zeichick, right, presented the award to A big group of Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley members gathered together early last month to Several Valley rabbis gathered together with members of the Greater Phoenix Board of Rabbis on Hillman. COURTESY OF ALAN ZEICHICK Jewish News’ inaugural class ofShabbat” 18are Under 50 to meet fellow honorees. Clockwise from left, Balon, Denise Kaye, Andre Ivory, Rabbi Barbara and Jerry Lewkowitz symbolically shoveled some build the temple’s sukkah. COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM OF THE EASTGeoffrey VALLEY Greater Phoenix Board of Rabbis pictured at TheDec. New Shul, preparing for the High Holidays and learning with backgrounds New Shul6. Rabbi Elana Kanter. Thursday, Nov. COURTESY OF GREATER PHOENIX BOARD OF RABBIS Beth Tefillah’s “Mishpachti Tot on gathered Friday, 12, brought together more than 30 people from diverse and Jewish denominations. The event featured a Shabbat sing-along, Kiddush and Temple Emanuel of Tempe celebrated its 50th anniversary with aJennifer gala, “Golden Jubilee: to the Years Celebration,” on MayOF JEWISH NEWSCarmen Aviva Funke, Andrew Gibbs, Adam Metzendorf, Wiliam Koslow, Starrett, AllisonCheers Kierman, Ian Next Sachs50 and Sarah Kader. COURTESY at Veterans the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center’s Berkowitz, left,Copper and Jon Green were on TEFILLAH Maya Jewishdirt War State 619 recently delivered COURTESY OF RABBI ANDY GREEN Shabbat dinner. COURTESY OFhonored CONGREGATION BETH 9, at the Oakwood-Iron Oaks Country Club in Sun Lakes. COURTESY OF KANE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC Andrea Cohen, center, thanked the members of Salk AZA (a boy’s groundbreaking on Thursday, June 5. COURTESY OF BARBARA LEWKOWITZ At Maidenhead Synagogue in England, Rosemary Abrami, a Rabbi Mendy Levertov, left, and his wife, Leah, at Jonathan’s On Jan. 18, Congregation Beth Tefillah held a women’s wellness 1 with the Kavod Awards, in appreciation of their service and Jewish War Suzanne Veterans Post 619 Julian Wyatt, left,filled presents Dustin Delcoure oftook Phoenix VA Fromleft, left to members right, Mona Morstein, Dennis Checkoway, Helene Marcia Simon, Len Krich, Rabbi Levertov, Gaker andCommander Joepacked Temple Chai proudly together in theinPhoenix Pride Parade in October in(held support of the Levi LGBTQ+ community. The Temple Chai “Bereavement Cart,” with drinks, snacks, hygiene items, Todd Herzog, right, and Colton Rahav, left, part in From Esther Allouche, Sapirwalked Cohen (held hostage Gaza forSparaga, 55 days), Sasha Trufanov hostage Volunteers with Smile On Seniors more than 800 Purim packages for seniors in2025 Nina Docent Holocaust Targovnik, Donna survivor Harris right, Charlotte gave sits a with tour Adelman her of Congregation father talked atbenefit to the teachers Beth Israel’s Hall of Violinist Moshe Bukshpan performed at Chabad’s “An Evening Ellen Shulman Tuckman, right, and Helena Feldman Nathan chapter of BBYO) for hosting a bake sale tothe the Center Arizona State Senator Lauren Kuby, left, presented aretirement legislative member of Beth Emeth Congregation in Sun City West, isabout picWalk at Chaparral Park in Scottsdale on Feb. 1.at Funds raised by day at CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa in Carefree. Attendees dedication to strengthening the community of Temple Beth voluntary servicesNicki, and Dr. Courtney Baker, chief of organizational health and excellence the Phoenix VA, Scherzer exercise and socialize while enjoying Smile On Seniors' Chai Pins Bowling event on April 2. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS contingent included Michael and Iris Fox, Nora and Steve Perlmutter, Olivia Kaufman, Amanda and Joseph Garcia, Jeremiah, Sophie, and handmade blankets and other comforts to VA Medical CenHamilton High School student Larah interviewed Jules On April 22, the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Passover concert and last in Gaza for 498 days) and Rabbi Pinchas at Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Annual Gala on communities across the Valley. From left to right, Ellen Underwood, Benita Sonabend, Toby Schultz, Since the fall semester began at State University (ASU), Chabad at Arizona State University Director Rabbi Shmuel Tiechtel (pictured wearing awith blue shirt) gathers with college freshmen at aScottsdale. welcome Jewish War Veterans Post 619 members display ais few of the 250 Fame museum her recently Awards on March released Dinner 16 to survival in members November, memoir the where at Cactus the she Phoenix Chapter was presented Holocaust of ORT. Tikkun Olam Together, Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix’s mother-daughter service group, spent time on March Yvel, jewelry company from Israel owned by Isaac Levy, had Inspiration” on June 14 at Chabad of Phoenix. Chabad is holding Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley member Nancy Urbach was the keynote speaker at the temple’s interfaith Holocaust Remembrance Day May 27, from left to right, Lou Rich, Trudie Camponovo, Jan Bell, Rabbi Levi Levertov, Joe Scherzer, Arizona Jews for Justice hosted campers from Shemesh Day Camp for aArizona morning of film, learning and celebrated the 69th anniversary of their b’nai mitzvah ina On Sunday, Nov. 9, awelcomes group of teachers gathered for ato Institute-led retreat and workshop atHoward Temple Kol Ami in Jewish War Veterans Copper State Post 619 raised more than On Wednesday, April 9, the Valley of the Sun JCC Intermediate Pickleball League finished nine-week tournament. For one day every week, Scottsdale’s Congregation Beth Tefillah members mixed it up for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix Camp Scholarship Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Phoenix hosted its annual Latino Jewish Seder last month to bring together the Jewish proclamation honoring Ruth Place, aFlavier first-of-its-kind model tured holding a copy of the Jewish News. She standing with Scottsdale’s Rabbi Soundbath Volunteers Bureau Center Levi of Jewish Levertov for attendees gather Congregation Jewish Education for Philanthropy pose athe photo Or for of Tzion Phoenix aon Greater group Tuesday, of hosted Greater police Phoenix’s aAllouche July game at Phoenix officers the 15 Hebrew night while Center (CJP) in Smile making High mid-October for brought Jewish On CAREaVAN meals together Philanthropy for and “Shabbat people took awarded its local community in of need winners Greater teens aits at Cop” to partners an Phoenix with California, event event aFriendly, poster in Women co-hosted in December June. where saying In they Philanthropy’s by “This to Arizona spent discuss is an 12 Jews new Award days “Reset data for in the Justice about & ReLos Sheryl Employees Shopping The Center and bags Richard of for the line Jewish Quen Center tables Philanthropy enjoy at for Beth Jewish the El benefits of Philanthropy Greater of waiting visiting Phoenix to of aBBQ be Greater Tuscan filled (CJP) Smile Jewish On War Seniors Veterans “It’s Not Just State Lunch” Post program 619 members on Feb. and 4Martin-Springer featured representatives aSeniors’ presentation from its by partnering cardiologist organizations Dr. Daniel Storch pose in with honor coffee of American collected Heart atand itsa luxury Recent The Greater high Phoenix school graduates, Jewish Film who Festival all attended board members, preschool who together were at available, the Valley met of on the Sunday, Sun Jewish March Community 15, at the home Center, of gathered Robert Nagle for aAward.” (second picture Happy to make her contribution to Jewish War Veterans Copper Jewish War Veterans, Copper State Post 619, donated garden supplies to be used by the Phoenix VA Medical Center during therapy for patients Several staff members of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix traveled to Los Angeles in January for the Jewish Federations Cookie Shifris was presented Arizona Jews for Justice’s Justice participants at the walk benefit The Friendship Circle, run by the from left to right, Monica Sonnenklar, Jolene Kuty, Sara AbelTemple Kol Ami legacy donors showed up in force to celebrate at the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix’s Life & Legacy event From left, Marvin and Sandra Finkelstein, Rabbi Levi Levertov, Herb Spiwak, Ethel Schmall, Sharon and Ilene Kornblue Shalom of the West Valley in Sun City. with 250 bus passes for needy veterans. passes will be distributed by VA social workers throughout As part of Temple Chai’s celebration for its 50th anniversary, former clergy returned on April 24-25 for the Legacy of Leadership Shabbaton. Zachary Kaplan, Andrea Cohen, Rabbis Emily and Scott Segal and their children, Sammy and Ezra Segal, Joshua and Isaac Guterman and Cantor ter. Pictured from left are Dan Tilsner, Gabe Forsberg, Michael Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Babyccino, aphoto mommy and me group hosted by Dr. Abigail Gewirtz, during its recent weekly On March 28, over 250 members of Congregation Beth Israel, colleagues, family and friends of Rabbi Stephen Kahn gathered to honor and recognize More than 1,500 people celebrated the first-ever Fountain Hills Jewish Heritage &over Food Festival on Jan. 25 with athe klezmer band, aSchool hands-on Jews ofits Color Initiative (JOCI) CEO Ilana Kaufman stopped in Wyatt, Commander for Jewish War Veterans Post 619, for his moved annual Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration inside for Israel’s month in Scottsdale. Watching the Super Bowl with Smile on Seniors. Seated from left are Michael and Elaine Thirteen Hamilton High Airsandwiches, Force JROTC students recently attended a Post 610 Jewish War Feb. 15. Cohen and Trufanov were guest speakers at the gala. COURTESY OF CONGREGATION BETHKates, TEFILLAH Hana Lange, Joyce Heitler and Jessica Sharkey. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS Chabad at ASU has held a series of welcome events for students to ASU dinner in August. COURTESY OF CHABAD AT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY city bus tickets that the Post isMarch donating to the VA Medical Center with Pictured Association’s the Maricopa from Education left County to right, Committee's Bar Harris, Association Lori “Back-to-School Mangel, Public David Lawyer Tuckman Night of the for 8 preparing sweets and making keepsake art projects at Ryan House, afuture, Phoenix-based nonprofit that provides specialized care for booth at the Scottsdale Art Week in at WestWorld of Scottsdale. various celebrations to mark 50 years in Arizona. program. She shared how her family members helped save about 200 relatives and friends from Nazi Germany in 1930s. Suzanne Gaker and Marilyn Jacks enjoyed goodies hot off the grill at the annual Smile On Seniors BBQ. service. They made more than 250 100 hygiene bags, 60 dog food bags and 80 snack bags February. Nathan traveled from New Orleans to join Sheryl Ochayon, from Israel’s Yad Vashem, taught at the workshop. COURTESY OF BJORN KRONDORFER $17,000 at 10 Fry’s locations in the East Valley over Veterans Day during the course of the competition, participants played six games. Harriet Colan, longest tenured full-time employee at the Valley of the with various costumes at the Purim Party in March. Program. Their efforts will help CJP send hundreds local campand Latino communities to share traditions, stories and meaningful conversations a Passover Seder. community recovery program for survivors of sexual assault, to Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) Cohort 10 mentees Karri Bernstein, Barbara Rosenberg, a long-time member of the congregation in the new and Angeles Valley’s NowGen, for the area, New Jewish a volunteering program Year” community. event of the and on Center CJP learning Sunday, will for host Sept. about Jewish additional 7. the Philanthropy impact groups the fires of in Greater the had on Phoenix. the and community. welcomes Pictured any local with Jewish the teens groups is Rabbi to COURTESY COURTESY register Daniel COURTESY OF OF ARIZONA CONGREGATION for OF Sher, JEWS SMILE the FOR ON whose OR JUSTICE SENIORS next TZION vineyard Phoenix with hosted food DJ (CJP) in to October. Artifex, pass packed out who to beach those shared bags in how need filled his at with Thanksgiving life summer and COURTESY music OF goodies SHERYL during were QUEN Month. 2nd Annual Pictured Coffee from Drive left for to right, U. S. Vets-Phoenix. Dennis Checkoway, Front row, Suzy from Magier, left Joanne to right, Greenspan-Archangelo, Matthew Severin, Sheryl Ron Rockwell, and Zaneta Les Kinsey, Ruff, Robin Bob Howard, and Len Balon, Nancy in row, their far graduation left) to celebrate gowns the or shirts accomplishments reflecting the of colleges this year’s they festival. will be This attending was the in festival’s the fall. 30th year and more COURTESY than OF VALLEY 13,000 OF THE SUN tickets JEWISH COMMUNITY were sold. CENTER State Post 619 Memorial Day weekend Poppy Campaign at Fry’s recovering from substance abuse. Left to right, Carol Tucker, Army veteran who is a VA Peer Support Specialist (meaning that she has dealt of North America regional gathering. Back row from left are Kaylie Medansky, Kay Campanella, Sarah Ben Harush, Jennifer Starrett, Richard Champion Award for Excellence in Service & Character in late Levertovs, which provides programs and support to families of son, Gaby Israel, Chaya Marasow and Mollie Glovinsky enjoyed on Wednesday, April 2. COURTESY OF CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX Vicki Diamond at Smile on Seniors’ “It’s Not Just Lunch and Heart Health” event on Feb. 5. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY the year to veterans needing transportation. COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST 619 Pictured from left, Cantor Emerita Sharona Feller, cantorial student Lucy Greenbaum, Cantor Ross Wolman, Cantor Tanya Greenblatt, Rabbi Tanya Greenblatt. AZ Jews for Pride is a program of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix, headed by Andrea Cohen. Achey, Penny Craft and Bob Howard. Tuesday meeting. Gewirtz isofaimmersive child psychologist and spoke about parenting. COURTESY OFcraft CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH the rabbi’s 30th anniversary his ordination. Pictured frommindful left, Isabel Kahn, Rabbi Stephan Kahn, Gabrielle Kahn and Ethan Kahn. challah-making workshop, an scribe experience, a shofar factory, matzah bakery, Jewish booth and more. COURTESY OF CHABAD OF FOUNTAIN HILLS Tucson atisthe University ofAug. Arizona, the African American Museum inclusion in the 21st volume of Imprints of Honor. Here she is 78th birthday. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS COURTESY OF CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH Janet Lottman and Leslie and Brad Levy. COURTESY OF ON SENIORS Veterans’ meeting to learn about their time in the service. Each cadet paired up with aCOURTESY vet to hear their A group of Temple Beth Shalom ofrabbinic the West Valley members stand inJWV front of the sukkah they built for this year’s Sukkot celebration. both new and established, and they love to display their apprecifor distribution to veterans who need transportation. Pictured Year M.D., Teachers” award. Ellen Tuckman on Thursday, and Robin 14. Balon. COURTESY OF DR. DAVID TUCKMAN children with life-limiting conditions. COURTESY OF CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX Pictured left Levy, Leesa Weisz, who hosted a preshow reception COURTESY OF MOSHE BUKSHPAN COURTESY OF SMILE SMILE ONTHE SENIORS for unhoused individuals in community. COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE at Congregation Beth Israel in Scottsdale, where they both took weekend. Pictured from left are JWV veteran Gabe Forsberg, Sun Jewish Community Center, and pictured in a lavendar t-shirt, shows off her second-place medal. COURTESY OF VALLEY OF THE SUN JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF ESTHER ALLOUCHE ers to Jewish camps across North America. COURTESY OFthe KASSIDY PINELisafrom National Council of Jewish Women Arizona (NCJW AZ) President DeLuca and Brooke Khazanovich partnered with Evolve Hadassah England. The two have been friends for 73 years. meeting community on Jan. was 15. devastated by the Palisades Fire. COURTESY COURTESY COURTESY OF THE OF CENTER CENTER OF BUREAU FOR FOR JEWISH JEWISH OF JEWISH PHILANTHROPY PHILANTHROPY EDUCATION OF OF GREATER GREATER GREATER PHOENIX PHOENIX PHOENIX for its forever annual a PJ Library changed “Turkey Phoenix after Train” performing (a event. program at of the CJP) Nova COURTESY giveaway. music OF BARBARA festival LEWKOWITZ on Ellen Stutman, and David Michelle Tuckman. Jameson, Sean Eggerstedt and Gabe Forsberg. Back row, left to right, Alex Gualdoni, Jean Milberger and Al COURTESY Hunter. OF SMILE ON SENIORS COURTESY OF GREATER PHOENIX JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Marketplace in Gilbert is Chandler resident Josephine Thomas, with substance abuse herself); Gabe Forsberg, VA representative for Post 619; and Dustin Delcoure, director for VA Voluntary Services. Kasper, Andrew Gibbs and Rich Solomon. Front row from left are Sheryl Press and Gail Baer. COURTESY OF JEWISH FEDERATIONS OF NORTH AMERICA January from Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz. COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE individuals with special needs. COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS a private sound healing, catered kosher luncheon, complimenEmily Segal, Rabbi Bonnie Koppell, Rabbi Mari Chernow, Rabbi Bill Berk, rabbinical student LeviCOURTESY Gettleman and Rabbi Peter Levi. OF TEMPLE CHAI COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST 619 COURTESY OF SARA WATERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY of Southern Arizona and the Tucson Jewish Museum & Holocaust pictured getting his autograph for her book. story so they could later be to share it with fellow cadets. COURTESY OFPHOENIX POST 610 JEWISH WAR VETERANS COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THEable WEST VALLEY ation for the organization. COURTESY OFand CHABAD AT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY from left are Ronald Ribstein, Eve Wagner Stuart Davis. COURTESY OF COURTESY HOLOCAUST OF NINA ASSOCIATION TARGOVNIK for Yvel, and Connie and Jay Krupin. COURTESY OF GEORGE WEISZ turns reading from their Torah portion. COURTESY OF DONNA HARRIS JWV volunteer Dawn Quinn and donor Bri Armijo. COURTESY OF CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENI Civia Tamarkin at the third annual “You Are Worthy” fundraiser to host a women’s self-defense class. WLI alum Meghan Jalowiec and COURTESY OF ROSEMARY ABRAMI October 7, 2023. Pictured COURTESY is CJP’s OF CENTER Schlicha FOR JEWISH Sapir PHILANTHROPY who OF introduced GREATER PHOENIX COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS COPPER STATE POST 619 6. JWV members Stuart and Maria Davis welcomed Josephine’s COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS COPPER STATE POST 619 tary spaas treatments, pool time and Torah-based workshops. COURTESY OF KANE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC Center part of her tour to COURTESY helpfour shape JOCI’s future efforts OFCOURTESY JEWISH WAR VETERANS COPPER STATE POST619 619 OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR breakfast on 23 at Scottsdale Methodist Church. incoming Cohort Tally Iskovitz also attended. Pictured left DJ Artifex to11April amentee crowd of more than United 200 people. donation. COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS COPPER STATE POST 619 COURTESY OF CONGREGATION BETHVETERANS TEFILLAH regionally and across the country. COURTESY OF JEWS OF COLOR INITIATIVE OFFOR NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN ARIZONA to right, Karri Bernstein, Lisa DeLuca, Meghan Jalowiec, Tally Iskovitz COURTESY OFCOURTESY THE CENTER JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX Valley residents Wendy and Wayne and Brooke Khazanovich. of the Giving TreeCOURTESY OF WOMEN’S and LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE Laskin have been building their Power,Michael Jewish entrepreneur, Dispensary founder Beth El Congregation held its “Mitzvah Day” on Thursday, Dec. 25. The congregation hosted 132 people from all over the Lilach ValleyMazor to have Kruk, veteranowner services and program coordinator for Soldier’s sukkah for over 35 years. They are of the pre-roll brand Sneakers, hosted a $10,000 giveaway in February. Here, she presents Tikkun Olam Together, a program of Smile lunch after packing more than 1,000 lunches and hygiene kits to pass outOn to Seniors people hosted in need.a “Chai Pins COURTESY OF BARBARA LEWKOWITZ Best Friend, right, presents Julian Wyatt, Jewish War Veterans Post pictured in for front of it Philanthropy with Jewish a giant check for $10,000 to militarywith veteran, Matthewcertificate Sabo. the Center Bowling” eventJewish in early summer. Pic619 commander, a graduation earned for completing News and their dog, Goldie Lox. Smile on Seniors hosted its On March 11, Valley Beit Midrash of Greater Phoenix, worked to tured fromof left are David Termine, a year of service dog training with his dog, Baxter.COURTESY OF LILACH MAZOR POWER Leo, one the newest members COURTESY OF WAYNE LASKIN Jewish Active Mature Adults welcomed Rabbi Ed Feinstein for support the Bureau of Jewish Susan Hall, Janet Lottman, Sherri COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST 619 of Temple Chai, wears a hard hat Bea The On Tuesday, Center Eisenberg for July Jewish and 15, Steve Beth Philanthropy El Hechler Phoenix brunch social on Feb. 23. the Hammerman Family Lecture Education of Greater Phoenix’s During Israel Independence Day inForeman, Andrea Malkin, Len Krich during the Phoenix synagogue’s are of and pictured Arizona Phoenix of Homeless Beth Pictured left are a t Greater Co n services g re genjoying aFriends tfrom i at o Drive. nstaff OTemple r and Tz i oboard nAna in Passover Food Mothers terfaith on April 17, Rabbi and Dave Shooten. groundbreaking its new home. Rand and Marcy Lewis hold up a Shalom members received ofthree the took West pallets part Valley’s inof the shelf-stable Sundae Jewish Spence, Linda Lober, Michael Scottsdale. Feinstein lectured on and daughters packaged holiday Dana Evan Kaplan of Temple COURTESY OF SMILE ONBeth SENIORS COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS Jewish News inside the Hebrew Funday Federations food and Welcome hygiene of items North Back from and America Convoy Open and Nancy Mendelsohn, An“The Shankbone Redemption: The candles and greeting cards, and Shalom of the West Valley, left, with Congregation ofHuron, St. Thomas in House General of Hope party Assembly inSilvey, on Port Sunday, inPassover Washington, Sept. Michigan. 14. drea Peter and Irene Inside Story of Passover.” Pictured added them to the food Sapir Tiram, senior community shlithe Virgin Islands, the second COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY D.C. Volunteers Nov. 16-18. handed Pictured the from donated left Baron, Isy and Benita Sonfrom left, Feinstein, Cheryl Frank packages that wereindelivered a few cha (Israeli emissary), who described On Feb. 16, 15 women from Congregation Kehillah oldest synagogue the Western are items Nicole out Myden, tothe people Danielle living Gross, on the abend, David Termine and Hammerman, Rabbi Dr. Shmuly days before start of the holiday. the emotions and perspectives comin Cave Creek gathered at a private home to pack About 35 people sat on the floor Hemisphere. COURTESY OF MARCY LEWIS Andrea street in Cohen, Phoenix. Charlene Green, Dave Shooten. Yanklowitz, Or(representing Tzion Rabbi Andy COURTESY ANDREA COHEN ing from Israel during theOFongoing In mid-September, PJ Library, a program of the feminine hygiene products for Women4Women. in the dark the COURTESY OF OF BARBARA LEWKOWITZ Alan Gold, David Brown, Rachel COURTESY SMILE ON SENIORS Green and Stan Hammerman. tensions and fighting with Iran. Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater PhoeIn an hour and a half they filled 465 bags to be physical expression of deep grief) Hoffer,COURTESY GailTEMPLE Baer, Andrew Gibbs, COURTESY OF RABBI ANDY GREEN BETH Eicha SHALOM OF(the THE WEST VALLEY nix, hosted a weekend family camp. PJ Library distributed to homeless and low-income women. for the reading of Book Sarah Langert, Richard Kasper and COURTESY OF CONGREGATION KEHILLAH Program Director Marcy Lewis is pictured in the of Lamentations) at Beth El Phoenix Pnina Levine. center of the photo surrounded by children paron Tisha B’Av. COURTESY OF HERSHL WEBERMAN ticipants, one who is holding Jewish News. COURTESY OF THE CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF COURTESY OF CENTER FOR JEWISHand PHILANTHROPY OF GREATERCare PHOENIXNetwork brought the joy of Chanukah to patients and Rabbi Moshe Levertov, right, the Jewish Beth El Phoenix a Friendsgiving luncheon for Arizona Friends of Homeless in honor ofas their work On Nov. 13, Jerryhosted Lewkowitz, center, thanked the Phoenix Children’s Hospital for being chosen its 2025 PHOENIX Carol Kadet, and Judy Rosen were as newatco-presidents of the Brandeis NationalGREATER CommitJewish War left, Veterans PostHospital. 619 set upinstalled poppy tables Fry’s Children’s staff at Phoenix Children’s He is pictured with Phoenix Hospital Director of Spiritual to support Phoenix’s most vulnerable populations. It was by Beth Social Action Legacy Society Honoree. Pictured with Lewkowitz are organized his grandson KyleEl’s Thompson, left, Committee, and Steven tee Phoenix Chapter at the chapter’s Spring Luncheon and Installation event on April 16. Jewish Diamondback fans enjoy Jewish Community Day at Chase Field on Sunday, Aug. 10. Marketplaces where volunteers collected donations generous Care Javi COURTESY visited OF JEWISH CARE NETWORK About 50Casas. seventh-grade students from St. Johnfrom Vianney Catholic School in Goodyear Temple whose member Barbara Lewkowitz is pictured speaking to the audience. COURTESY OF BETH ELright. PHOENIX Schnall, senior vice president andRabbi chief director of development Phoenix Children’s Hospital, COURTESY OF BRANDEIS NATIONAL COMMITTEE PHOENIX PHOENIX CHAPTER COURTESY OF CENTER FORRabbi JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER From left John Linder, Kahn, Cantor Noa Shaashua, Jeremy Schneider, Cantorfor Ross Wolman and Rabbi Emily Segal shoppers overof the Memorial Day weekend. Pictured JWV Raya Sandler, right, and Lyla Katz were among those who Post gave Purim treats, mishloach manot, toStephen Congregation Or Tzion Rabbi Andy Green was recently announced as the new president the Greater Beth Shalom the West Valley on Monday, Dec. 1.is Rabbi Danaaway Evan Kaplan, right, unrolled theRabbi Torah COURTESY of OF BARBARA LEWKOWITZ To celebrate Israel’s holiday of love, Tu B’Av, Risa Mallin (standing, far right) used a Center for Jewish Beth El Phoenix donated nearly 500 take a photo after leading the Reform community Shavuot and Yizkor service. COURTESY OF RABBI JEREMY SCHNEIDER 619 Judge Advocate Ron Siegel. COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST 619 senior living communities for Tikkun Together’s mother-daughter service group on Sunday, March 2. Phoenix Holocaust observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day with a presentation Phoenix Board of Rabbis Executive Committee. The new committee is pictured from left: Rabbi Mindie for students to lookAssociation at. From left areOlam St. John Vianney Catholic School Principal Doug Weivoda, Father Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix Gather Grant to celebrate her love of hermac friendscheese and mahjong. boxes and more than COURTESY OF SARAH KATZ by Georgia Hunter, author of “WeKimber Were the Lucky Ones.” Pictured fromof left are‘n Hunter, Sheryl Bronkesh, Snyder, co-treasurer; Beth El Congregation Rabbi Nitzan Stein-Kokin, vice president; Green; Congregation Brian Kennedy, Campus Minister Chamberlain and Kaplan.with Benita Sonabend leads a cooking demonstration, “In the Kitchen Benita,” for participants of Smile Pictured back row, left to right, Sue Cohen, Cynthia DuBrow, Susan Padilla, Ellen Underwood, Vicki 100 children’s books to Vista Colina Smile on Seniors’ “Not Just Lunch and Fun” event with gameshow host Scott Faver had big turnout. Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley congregants celebrated Simchat Torah this fall at aFISCHPAN, the Chandler Leslie Feldman and Busy Philipps. COURTESY OF DANIEL INVOKE VIDEO Beth Israel Rabbi Sara Mason-Barkin, secretary; and Temple Kol Ami Rabbi Jeremy Schneider, immediate COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OFup THE WEST VALLEY In February, more than 700 people from all over Greater Phoenix participated in this year’s Jonathan’s Walk4Friendship. On Mitzvah Day, Jan. 11, Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley Brotherhood members cleaned weeds, Erez Kessler, left, with Rabbi Dana Evan Kaplan celebrated Purim with the Temple Beth Shalom of the On Seniors onScarf, Feb. 24. COURTESY OFnew SMILE ON SENIORS Cabot, Gloria Barbara MaryJane Sandler, Nancy Mendelsohn and Mallin. Front row, left Family Shelter Phoenix for Pictured from leftYanklowitz, are JackieGoldstein, Black, Stephanie Shink, Barbara Allyn, Chani Bari Myden, Judy Rabbi Dr. Shmuly left, invited Barry and Barb Zemel to place theLevertov, mezuzah on the space synagogue. COURTESY OFin TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM OF Purim. THE EAST VALLEY past president. Not pictured is Rabbi Mark Bisman, co-treasurer. COURTESY OF RABBI ANDY GREEN The event raised close to $87,000 for kids with special needs. COURTESY OF FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE dead bushes and trash that had accumulated on the temple’s grounds. Pictured from left to right, are West Valley congregation during Shabbat services on Feb. 27. COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY to right, Arlene Raskin Anita Evers. COURTESY OF6. THEThe CENTERShalom FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF COURTESY OF BARBARA LEWKOWITZ Zuchman, Marcia Simon and Spevak. COURTESY OF GREATER SMILE ONPHOENIX SENIORS during the reopening ofBaila the Shalom Pantry in Scottsdale on Mayand Pantry and Kindness Carole Berkowitz in Smile OnCopper Seniors It’s Not Just Lunch Fun on May 6, led gameshow Members ofgrand Jewish Warand Veterans (JWV) State Post 619 packed care packages, to by be shipped to Paul Sirrine, Daveparticipates Katz, Pierre Flatowitz, Richard Bass, Russ Robbins, Marty Kret and Jon Green. Closet provide food, clothinginand essential items to low-income families and individuals throughout the host Scott Faver. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS military personnel stationed remote areas overseas, for Support the Troops (STT) at the Ahwatukee COURTESY OF BERNIE ARUM community.Center. From left, Anne Teplitsky, JWV; Mary Williams, STT; COURTESY ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE AND VALLEY BEITJWV. MIDRASH Recreation andOFJulian Wyatt, commander left, Marvin Kline, Roth, Marci Beliak, DavidDaring Weinstein, Mark and Susie Magier, Sharonat Cohn, One of Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley’s youngest Author Judy Laufer shared stories from From her book, “Choices: TheLori True Story of One Family’s Escape to Freedom” with students Gila COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS COPPER STATE POST 619 PatHolocaust Singer andRemembrance Tina Firetag areDay. pictured at Smile on Seniors’ “Not Just Lunch and Music” event onOFTuesday, congregants celebrated and showed off some personality in the Bend High School on Jan. 27, International COURTESY JUDY LAUFER Arthur Levine, center, the this newly named presidentenjoy of Brandeis University with of the The Bureau ofco-presidents Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix’s Jewish Baby University students held up their copies of Jewish NewsCOURTESY during their last Jan. 8. OF SMILE ON SENIORS Chandler temple’s sukkah fall. Members of Congregation Lev Shalom in Flagstaff a chilly evening in mid-August. Brandeis National Committee Phoenix Stephanie Klopperr, left,ofand Joyce Steinberg at SHALOM the class the Fall 2025 series. LEV COURTESY OF LINDA FELDMAN COURTESY OFChapter TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM OF THE EAST VALLEY COURTESY OF CONGREGATION On Feb. 14, Temple Beth Shalom chapter’s annual Book & Author Event on Feb. 23 in Scottsdale. COURTESY OF BRANDEIS NATIONAL COMMITTEE PHOENIX CHAPTER A delegation from the Desert States chapter of Jewish National Fund-USA, which includes Arizonans, of the West Valley hosted “Music Every month, the women of Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Book Club delve into Jewish literature from attended theTogether, 2025 Global for in Hollywood, Florida. COURTESY OF its JEWISH NATIONALevent FUND-USA Through the Decades.” Pictured are Tikkun part Conference of the Center forIsrael Jewish Greater Phoenix, held kickoff aroundOlam the world, reading fiction, non-fiction and Philanthropy everything inofbetween — all through a Jewish lens. costume award winners Jon and in September. The group decorated tzedakah boxes to collect donations at their upcoming Pickleball with COURTESY OF before ESTHER ALLOUCHE Beck Green dressed as a menorah the Marlene Green, who were dressed Purpose event in April. COURTESY OF CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX/TIKKUN OLAM TOGETHER Chanukah musical review that was staged in More than 450 people came out to hear from author Mitch Albom of “Tuesdays with Morrie” fame. He as Gomez and Morticia Addams from December. OFJEWISHNEWS Three generations of theFamily” Laskin was speaking at a Valley Beit Midrash event promoting his new novel, “Twice.” Albom, right,COURTESY is introduced the 1960s “The Addams family traveled Temple Chai,COURTESY Temple Solel, Temple Kol by Rabbi Dr. Yanklowitz. OF RABBI DR. SHMULY YANKLOWITZ television show. to Cooperstown, From left, Dr.Shmuly Lawrence Green,State Issy Lifshitz and Alan Bulman bring tradition togetherness to the Jewish War Veterans Copper 619 provided robotic pets, designed by and recreation therapists, to Isy Sonabend helped assemble New York,OFto watch Jack play in a Ami and Congregation Beth Israel, four COURTESY TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY Jewish War Veterans Copper State Post 619 (JWV) recently donated $3,500, plus collected over 800 table atRahav Smile On25, Senior’s BLT Men’s Social (bagels, loxsongs andfrom tefillin). COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS dementia patients at Phoenix VA Medical Center. Pictured left are VA Voluntary Services Specialist Phoenix resident Geoffrey On Tuesday, Feb. Temple Kol Ami’s board of trustees bicycles thatbaseball were ontournament a Gonsher family's Pictured Colton leads young families as they sing Shabbat at Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Mishpachti week-long Valley Reform synagogues, gathered Jerry Lewkowitz, right, presented Alma Hernandez with the Lewkowitz Family Rising Leader Award at Gloria Bold, board first vice president and programs committee chair, presented Temple Beth Shalom of Benita Sonabend, left, and Pinki Lifshitz demonstrate how to prepare black bean chocolate cake and Congregation Beth Tefillah’s youth directors, Rabbi Yisrael and Eden Kumer, led a leadership training for Tucson Smile Jewish Leah Levertov on Jews War from Seniors Veterans for left congratulated Justice hosted are Dr. Post hosted an Sarah 619 impromptu her Past Nicholas, “Havdallah Challah Commander lunch Dr. Bake Against Linda for its Chuck committee Benaderet, Hate” members Wolin in early for in Dr. and July. putting Sara August his Pictured son, Palestrant together after Marine on an the and act Seargent another left of Dr. vandalism side Kathryn “Kids Ken of the Wolin, Mega Hunt at taa On March 12, Arizona Jews for Justice hosted Temple Chai’s mitzvah group, where volunteers made over A group of Jewish women gathered for Congregation Beth Tefillah’s Wellness Women’s Retreat on May pairs of socks for veterans at Catholic Charities MANA (Marine, Army Navy, Air Force) House. The facility Temple Solel hosted itsNoa annual fundraiser, “Solelebration,” on Saturday, Feb. 8., and Penny Craft receiving pets from JWV 619 members Julesevery Wyatt, Nancy Gabe Forsbeg, Judy author Ruth Rotkowitz sold copies of her two Holocaust novels at the Stutman, Desert Foothills Book Festival and son, Aaron, tracked down unanimously voted to extend Cantor Shaashua’s wishlist when the Jewish Care Tot The program will take place before Shabbat month. COURTESY OF ESTHER ALLOUCHE withhis teams from allHolocaust over the U.S., Valley together late last month for Tashlich, theShabbat. Anti-Defamation League Desert’s Conference on Antisemitism in Tempe on Friday, April 11. the West Valley Recognition Awards April 24 to temple members who have gone “above and beyond” tahini bread for Smile on Seniors “In the Kitchen with Benita” series on Feb. 25. COURTESY OFVETERANS SMILE ON SENIORS teens while hiking in Phoenix. The was toPictured empower the teens to lead fun and engaging activities Brendish. Jewish ble visit Challah are the Molly lawyer’s Bake” Lone The Roth, four Sailor in office. August. women Tzipi Monument Marsa, presented Carol on agoal aon trip Taus, breast to Alan Washington, cancer and awareness Susan D.C. Polson. symposium Seated at on Congregation COURTESY the COURTESY right OF OF LEAH JEWISH side LEVERTOV WAR Beth of the Tefillah table POST 619 350 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the unsheltered community. Not all of the volunteers that 12-13 at CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa inthe Carefree. Participants enjoyed sound healing, yoga, desert Two days before attending the Remdistributes 200-300 pairss of socks monthly. from left to right, Rachael Masch-Perez, MANA Lynn Ruskin of Glendale stands in front of Jerusalem Synagogue in Prague, Czechia. honored Rabbi John and Nancy Linder on their 17 years of leadership of the Paradise Lifelong friends from Camp Ramah in California traveled this summer with a total of 250 other rising Wolin and Chuck Wolin. COURTESY OF JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST 619 in mid-October. COURTESY OF RUTH ROTKOWITZ Mondlick was the bride far (letter Q) and EliTEMPLE LaRue U) inLori theBaker, preschool wedding the cafébrought where Geoffrey’s father contract for five more years. COURTESY OF KOL AMIthe groom Network the of Chanukah Canada and Mexico. Pictured from Halle a(letter Jewish tradition where participants COURTESY OF KASSIDY PINE this year. Pictured with Bold, left, are Carol Zingale-Dandoy, Judy Michael Zager, forOct. younger kids. COURTESY OF CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH on are Ellyn 26. Klein, David Weinstein, Sharon Cohn and Henri Benkiel. COURTESY COURTESY OF TUCSON OF ESTHER ALLOUCHE participated are pictured. COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE hiking, Kabbalah teachings and sessions with Rebbetzin Esther Allouche and Israel’s marathon champion, brance Day at Symphony Hall lastjoy month, Arizona House community engagement coordinator; Jean Milberger, DAR Gila Butte Chapter regent: and Jay Violinist Moshe Bukshpan, far right, performed with other musicians atinSirrine, the Jewish Community of Sedona COURTESY OF LYNN RUSKIN congregation. COURTESY OF TEMPLE SOLEL high seniors and Poland with Ramah Israel. COURTESY OF ALISON FEINBERG theschool letters Q Valley and Uto atIsrael Congregation Beth Israel Chanen Preschool Scottsdale. COURTESY OF ANNE MONDLICK stood for a photo withJack his fellow to patients at Laskin, Phoenix Children’s left, Matthew Laskin of symbolically throw breadcrumbs or Fran Richter proudly shows off her Jewish News in Marilyn Meyerowitz and Paul Sirrine. Award winners not pictured are Warren Bentkover, Marty Kret and OF SMILE ON SENIORS Beatie Deutsch. COURTESY OFCOURTESY CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH Governor Katie Hobbs invited Charlotte Adelman Hershorlin. JWV member. COURTESY OF BRANDEIS NATIONAL COMMITTEE PHOENIX CHAPTER and the Verde Valley. COURTESY OF MOSHE BUKSHPAN Temple BethHolocaust Shalom ofeducation the West Valley Rabbi Dana EvanJewish KaplanHistorical and clergy from four Sun City churches Tony director of the Arizona Society, right, facilitated “Our American soldiers after the 1944 OF JEWISH NETWORK and Wayne OFCARE WAYNE LASKIN pebbles into the water as they recite Jerusalem while participating in the Authentic Israel KarenFusco, Carnow. COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY to her officeHospital. to talk aboutLaskin. herCOURTESY newCOURTESY memoir. Hobbs led a Thanksgiving Interfaith Service onmonthly Nov.daughter 21.Chai Pictured from Pastor Greg Emery, Rev. Annleft Utke, Parents’ Stories,” with Vivian Klein the Ullman, of the lateleft: Holocaust survivor Gerda Weissmann liberation of Paris. Aaron holds the Smile On Seniors members enjoyed Pins Bowling event on Jan. 28. Pictured from to prayers of repentance and forgiveness. Volunteer program. COURTESY OF FRAN RICHTER posted on her official Instagram a photo of the Rev. East Valley Jewish Community Center Camp Rimon campers in Chandler enjoyed a special visit from the John Maroni, Rev. Mark J. Makowski and Kaplan. COURTESY OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY Klein, Marcia at the Tempe Museum on March COURTESY OF TONY FUSCO The Center of Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix staff members took aphoto break with from his the grandfather daily grind to right, original Simon, History Dennis Checkoway, Susan 27. Hall, Len Krich, Dave Shooten, Jim OF Hall, COURTESY TEMPLEHelene CHAI/RABBI Sparaga, BONNIE KOPPELL meeting. COURTESY OF GOVERNOR KATIE HOBBS’ INSTAGRAM Chandler Fire Department during week of camp. COURTESY OF EAST VALLEY JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER hang out for an afternoon at Top Golf. Pictured in the back row, from left, of arethe Mala Blomquist, Charlene David in front café. Termine and Andrea Malkin.the first COURTESY OF SMILE SENIORS On Tuesday, April 29, Congregation Beth Tefillah (CBT) member Eleanor Gross L.C.S.W. ledONCBT’s Green, Rachel Johnson, Tricia Jones, Leah Berenson, Sheryl Press, Andrew Gibbs, Amichai Richard On Sunday,group Sept. 7, Chai’s Kulanu (Anti-Defamation program) committee hosted Anthony COURTESY OFStout, BARBARA LEWKOWITZ Susan Roberts brought anLeague issue of the Jewish News to thecultivating Shanghai Babyccino inTemple a mindful parenting session about releasing self-imposed limitations while Kasper and Nicole Myden; front row, from right, are Andrea Cohen, Sarah Langert, Sheryl Quen, Kay Fusco, director ofpersonal Holocaust education the Arizona JewishinHistorical He spoke to approximately JewishatRefugees Museum China. ItSociety. is a museum commemorating the inner peace and growth. COURTESY OF CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH Zach and AllieMarcy Romo float in the Dead Sea with a copy Jewish News during their third trip with Honeymoon Harriet Colan, officeLewis, manager atLipson, the Valley of the Sunof Jewish Community Center, from right, led OFa 50 Campanella, Jodi Sapir Hosey. OF CENTER people about making. the perpetrators of therefugees Holocaust and theintenacity of during survivors. COURTESY OF SANDY KRAVETZ Jewish who lived Shanghai World War II after fleeing In March, Smile On Seniors hosted “It’s Not JustTiram Lunchand andJoan Pickle Making.” Tables were fullCOURTESY ofCOURTESY seniors practicing the art of pickle in Israel. OF AMANDA GARCIA group VOSJCC members on a day trip to the English Rose Tea Room in Carefree in February. JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX Europe to escape. COURTESY OF SUSAN ROBERTS On Sunday, 23, Temple Solel hosted itsmeets annualmonthly. Women’sRecently, Passoverthey Seder. anCOURTESY evening ofinspirCOURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS OF HARRIET COLAN Temple SolelMarch women’s group, Sisters of Solel, hadItawas brunch and hike the ituality, song and shared tradition led by Solel Rabbi Debbie Stiel and including the vocals of Tamara Participants enjoyed Smile On Seniors Purim Extravaganza on March 3. Seated from left to right, Ed and On Thursday, April 24, several Jewish organizations recruited volunteers for “Reading of Names” on McDowell Sonoran Preserve. From left in the front row are Jill Resnick, Helene Weitzenkorn, Reva Steinberg, Sunday, April 6, 14 NowGen-aged individuals (22-45) came together for a nature walk through the Luana Patterson, left, president of Blue Star Moms of the Southwest Valley, accepts a collected donation of Michelle Jameson, Director ofTefillah U. S. -Phoenix, accepted 163 cans of coffee by The Arizona Center Jews for for Jewish Justice Philanthropy recently began ofVets Greater its initiative Phoenix to hosted provide Judith volunteer Ra’anan, opportunities of the and first programs hostages In late July, Women’s Leadership Institute Cohorts 9happily and 10row came together toone kick off the year with a Lieberman. This special Seder weaves together the rich of Jewish heritage with the voices and On May 6, Congregation Beth in Scottsdale held atapestry Torah dedication in honor of the Israel Defense Sande Mitchell, Jacqueline and Mark Dlatt, Marvin Kline, Shelley Greenberg and Mark Wolff. Standing Yom HaShoah. Leah Berenson ofwere the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix is pictured here Lois Bell, Rose Rastrelly and Vicki Miles. From left inWar the back are Joanna Garrison, Mary Ann Bloom, Reach 11 Recreation area. There snacks, drinks, friendship and beautiful weather for the hikers. This From left, Freeman Rosenblum, Alan Nathan, Glenn Miller, David Rosen, Keith Rezendes, Beverly Nathan Shirley $1,500 from Julian Wyatt, Commander of Jewish Veterans Copper State Post 619. Blue Star Moms Pictured from left to right, Max and Andrea Greenspan and Phyllis and Michael Weinberg enjoyed Gloria Bold, right, and Meredith Weisman-Amaral were honored with Kavod Awards on March 7the in and Israeli Supreme Court Justice Daphne Barak-Erez visited Arizona in early February. The justice is pictured On June 15, Smile On Seniors held a “Summer Restaurant Meetup” at Kitchen 18 in Scottsdale. Pictured In November, the Jewish Care Network of Arizona, established by Rabbi Moshe and Sashie Levertov, Jewish Friends War shared Veterans, an epic Post Shabbat 619. dinner Pictured and mahjong from left night, are John complete Hermann, with homemade Jameson, Nancy food, wine, Stutman desserts and taken at senior by Hamas centers on in Oct. Greater 7, 2023, Phoenix who to was foster released a sense after of two community weeks. She while shared engaging her story seniors of resilience, in handshappy hour and mixer. More than 30 women attended. COURTESY OF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE The Arizona Pictured Jewish State from women’s University left are circle Susan students of the and Chabad Alan gather Polson Jewish for a and welcome Center Hana of back and Mesa Norman bash held at a Chabad Kahn. pre-Rosh The at Hashanah ASU. foursome event are enjoying where Ron Dermer, far left, Israeli politician and diplomat who served as the Minister of Strategic Affairs from On April 12, Arizona Jews for Justice hosted Shevet Shemesh, the Israeli Scouts of Arizona, where Standing from left, Susan Friedman, Karen Kass and Sherry Salzman; seated left, Bonnie Green experiences of women. Forces and civilian heroes who gave their lives on Oct. 7 and thereafter. Pictured from left to right, Claude from left to right, Rabbi Levi Levertov, Neil Morrow and Robin Wolff. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS U.S. Representative David Schweikert (AZ-01), who is running for Governor of Arizona in the 2026 election, left, Leslie Levy, Jacquie Black and Elaine Kates enjoyed the Smile On Seniors Super Bowl Party. Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, left, of Valley Beit Midrash introduced Rabbi Dr. Dalia Marx, far right, for Past President of her theare, Phoenix Association Sheryl right, with author Lois Lowry, From left, Sarah Rubin, Marilyn Rubin and Judy Steve Goldston visited Amsterdam’s historic reading the names of people murdered during the Holocaust. Lauren Mishlove, Rabbi Debbie Stiel, Joy Weber andJennet Kirkpatrick. COURTESY OF RABBI DEBBIE STIEL event was part of a NowGen Gather Grant where community members can apply to host a gathering to Rosenblum are pictured at Smile on Seniors’ “Deli Night” event on Jan. 29. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS is a nonprofit support and service organization for mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers and female Smile On Seniors March 13 Shabbat dinner held in Phoenix. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS appreciation of their service to Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley in Sun City. far right and with from Holocaust left, attorneys Sam Saks, Jami Bronkesh, Goldman and Nina Targovnik. from left to right, Steve Rosenbaum, Ellen Rosenbaum, Tami Rubinstein, Rabbi Levi Levertov, Debra hosted volunteers to cook 100 meals in under 90 minutes to help those facing food insecurity after the Charles and laughter. Gerson. Pictured from left are Sheri Schreck, Debbie Ater, Meryl Rose, Nancy COURTESY OF Turell, JEWISH WAR Sheryl VETERANS, Quen, POST 619 survival on activities. and strength with the Valley’s Jewish community. COURTESY OF CENTER FOR JEWISH PHILANTHROPY OF GREATER PHOENIX they Smile crafted On Seniors’ resin trays Lag B’Omer for holiday. BBQ in May. COURTESY COURTESY OF CHABAD OF CHABAD COURTESY AT ARIZONA JEWISH OF CENTER STATE SMILE UNIVERSITY ON OF SENIORS MESA 2022 until 2025, pictured with Rabbi Pinchas and Esther Allouche. Dermer was a guest speaker at they made 400 lunch bags, 250 sandwiches and dozens of hygiene kits to be distributed to unhoused and Joan Baratz celebrated Shabbat on April 24 with Smile On Seniors. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS COURTESY OF TEMPLE SOLEL Amiel, Abby Kaplan, Dr.at David Kaplan R’who Pinhas Nissanoff. The Torah was dedicated byCOPPER Amiel. was one of several people running for office spoke atHeritage-themed areserves. dinner to members ofRiver the Jewish Women’s COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS her presentation, “Praying about the Unspeakable: Liturgy and Ritual asCOURTESY Response Crisis” on Feb. 3 holding up the article about her in the Jewish News at the event featuring her best-selling book “Number Portuguese synagogue the start ofexperience. aand Uniworld Jewish Rhine cruise arranged COURTESY OF JEWISH NEWS create their own meaningful Jewish COURTESY OF LEAH BERENSON legal guardians of active military personnel, veterans and COURTESY OF JEWISH WARto VETERANS STATE POST 619 OF TEMPLE BETH SHALOM OF THE WEST VALLEY COURTESY OF NINA TARGOVNIK Salins, Suzy Schweitzer, Howard Kornblue and Ilene Kornblue. COURTESY OF SMILE ON SENIORS government shut down. COURTESY OF RABBI MOSHE LEVERTOV Julie Friedman, Andi Friedman and Penny Miller. COURTESY OF MERYL ROSE COURTESY OF ARIZONA JEWS FOR JUSTICE FACEBOOK Congregation Beth Tefillah’s in February. COURTESY OFOF CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH individuals inForum the community. COURTESY ARIZONA FOR JUSTICE OF CONGREGATION BETH TEFILLAH Conservative (JWCF) atGala Maggiano’s Little Italy in Scottsdale on March 8. COURTESY COURTESY OFJEWS MINDY FRANKLIN at Beth Phoenix. COURTESY OF VALLEY BEIT MIDRASH the Stars.” COURTESY OF MARCY LEWIS by MyraEl Orkin. COURTESY OF STEVE GOLDSTON
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CALENDAR
Featured Event SUNDAY, AUG. 23 Temple Chai Dedication Ceremony:
Events FRIDAY, AUG. 21 Temple Emanuel Open House: 6:30 p.m. Temple Emanuel of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Join TEOT for an open house and meet the rabbi and board, find out about clubs, committees and activities and discover their pre-K-12 religious school. For more information visit, teot.short.gy/ o8XpLd, SUNDAY, AUG. 23 Shalom Songs: Jewish Music & Movement for Babies: 10 a.m. Location provided upon registration. Join the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix for a music and movement class for babies and toddlers with a caregiver. For more information, visit bjephoenix.org. PHA Young Leadership Committee Launch Party: 11 a.m. North Scottsdale location provided upon registration. Join the Phoenix Holocaust Association for the launch of their Youth Leadership Committee, a new group dedicated to keeping the lessons of the Holocaust alive for the next generation. For more information, visit phxha.com/events/ young-leadership. Celebrate, Create & Connect: Intergenerational Jewish Holiday Craft Series: 1-3 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Jewish Family and Children’s Service Center for Senior Enrichment and Creative Aging in partnership with the Pomegranate Guild of Judaic Needlework to create Rosh Hashanah coasters for the holiday table. $15 per person, for ages 7 and up. For more information, visit jfcsaz. org/our-services/older-adults-services/ class-calendar. Middle School Jewish Student & Family Town Hall: 1-2:30 p.m. Location provided upon registration. Join the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix for a presentation featuring Alison Hurwitz-Kelman, program associate for the Jewish education team at Facing History & Ourselves. Hear directly from students, ask questions, learn what schools and community partners are doing and discover ways we can work together to ensure Jewish students feel supported and connected. Cost: $18 per family. For more information, visit bjephoenix.formstack.com/forms/parent_workshops. Hooked on Books: 2-3:30 p.m. Congregation Or Tzion, 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale. Join Or Tzion for a book discussion on “A Woman of No Importance” by Sonia Purnell. For more information, contact Jan Scheer at jkscheer422@gmail.com.
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AUGUST 21, 2026
Mega Challah Bake 4Kids: 3-4:30 p.m. The Friendship Circle of Greater Phoenix, 2110 E. Lincoln Drive, Phoenix. Join The Friendship Circle for an afternoon of squishing, shaping and making challah for children with a parent or grandparent. Cost: $20 per child, $5 per adult. For more information, visit megachallahkids.com. Resin & Renewal: 7:30 p.m. Chabad of Ahwatukee, 9830 S. 51st. St. #B101, Phoenix. Join Chabad Jewish Women’s Circle for an evening of creativity and create a resin charity box. For more information, visit chabadahwatukee.com. TUESDAY, AUG. 25 Hebrew High Opening Night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Phoenix’s Hebrew High for an evening designed to introduce students to the new experiences, opportunities and partnerships coming to Hebrew High this year. For more information, visit bjephoenix.org/ hebrew-high. THURSDAY, AUG. 27 The World is Informational: Kabbalah and AI: 1-2 p.m. Online via Zoom. Join Valley Beit Midrash for a virtual presentation by Rabbi Dr. Alan Brill, the Cooperman/Ross Chair for Jewish-Christian Studies at Seton Hall University. Brill is an expert on Jewish thought and interfaith relations. For more information, visit valleybeitmidrash.org. 3GAZ Rugelach Bake: 6-8 p.m. Süss Pastries, 5341 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix. Join 3GAZ Descendants of Holocaust Survivors for an evening of baking led by Samantha Bayer, owner of Kvell Bakery. Cost: $36 per person. For more information, visit phxha.com/ events/3gaz-bake. FRIDAY, AUG. 28 Shabbat Live!: 5-6 p.m. Congregation Beth Tefillah, 6529 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale. Join CBT for a Shabbat experience for families with children ages 10 and under. Includes live music, dinner, Shabbat sing-a-long and new programming for elementary-aged children. For more information, visit bethtefillahaz.org/event/tot-shabbat4.html. Tailgate Shabbat: 5 p.m. Congregation Or Tzion, 16415 N. 90th St., Scottsdale. Join Or Tzion for games, a kosher BBQ and Shabbat services. $12 for adults, free for children under 13 and new congregants. For more information, visit otaz.org/tailgate. Kabbalat Shabbat Ma’agalim & Dinner: 5:45 p.m. Beth El Phoenix, 1118 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. Join Beth El for a musical prayer service for all ages. Cost: $25 per person, $60 per family of four. For more
COURTESY OF TEMPLE CHAI
3 p.m. Temple Chai, 6025 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. Join Temple Chai as they dedicate their new campus and mark this historic milestone in the congregation’s journey. For more information, visit templechai.com.
information, visit bethelphoenix.com/event/ shabbat.
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. Anxiety in the Modern World: 6 p.m. Online. Learn the secrets of the Torah for living stress-free in the current environment with Rabbi Boruch of Chabad of Oro Valley. Cost: Free. Use this link: zoom.us/j/736434666. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. MONDAYS Pomegranate Guild of Judaic Needlework, Desert Cactus Chapter: 10 a.m. The Oasis at Sagewood, 4555 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. The guild meets the third Monday of the month, adjusted when necessary to accommodate Jewish holidays. For more information, visit pomegranateguild.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. Living Through Loss: 4:30-6 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month. Online via Zoom. Join the Deutsch Family Shalom Center at Temple Chai for a Jewish bereavement support group. For more information, contact shalomcenter@templechai.com or 602-971-1234, ext. 253. Ethics of Our Fathers: 7 p.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Zalman Levertov. Use this link: bit.ly/2Y0wdgv. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. Quotable Quotes by our Sages: 7 p.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Shlomy Levertov. Use this link: JewishParadiseValley.com/ class. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. Partners in Torah: 7:30 p.m. Online. Join a growing group of inspired learners with Project Inspire. Cost: Free. Use this link: us04web. zoom.us/j/3940479736#success, password is 613. For more information, email Robin Meyerson at robin@projectinspireaz.com.
JEWISH NEWS
Learning to Trust in God: 7:30 p.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Yossi Friedman. Use this link: ChabadAZ.com/LiveClass. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. Torah & Tea: 7:30 p.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Yossie Shemtov. Cost: Free. For more information, visit Facebook.com/ ChabadTucson. Single Parent Zoom: 8 p.m. First and third Monday of every month. Join The Bureau of Jewish Education’s Family University single parents’ group for those looking to form friendships and build their support system with like-minded people. For more information or to register, visit bjephoenix.org/ family-university. 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 623-5847210 weekdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Maintaining an Upbeat Attitude: 7 p.m. Online. A class exclusively for people in their 20s and 30s, learn how Jewish Mysticism can help with your attitude with Rabbi Shlomy Levertov. Use this link: JewishParadiseValley.com/YJPclass. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. Torah Studies: 7:30 p.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Mendy Levertov. Use this link: ourjewishcenter.com/virtual. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. 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. JEWISHAZ.COM
CALENDAR Happiness Hour: 11:30 a.m. Online. Class taught by Rabbi Pinchas Allouche that delves into texts and references culled from our traditions to address a relevant topic. For more information, visit BethTefillahAZ.org. Lunch & Learn: 12 p.m. Online. Grab some food and learn with Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin. Use this link: Facebook.com/ChabadTucson. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadtucson.com. Torah Study with Chabad: 12 p.m. Online. Take a weekly journey of Torah with Rabbi Yossi Levertov. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. The Thirteen Petalled Rose: 1 p.m. Online. Kabbalah class that studies “The Thirteen Petalled Rose” by Rabbi Adin Even-Israel Steinsaltz, focusing on the many concepts of Kaballah and Jewish Mysticism and applying them to everyday life. For more information, visit BethTefillahAZ.org. 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. History of the Jews: 7 p.m. Online. Learn the Jewish journey from Genesis to Moshiach with Rabbi Ephraim Zimmerman. Use this link: zoom.us/j/736434666. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.
Torah Portion Class: 7 p.m. Online or in person. Chabad Lubavitch of Fountain Hills, 16830 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills. Join Rabbi Mendy Lipskier for a discussion of the weekly parshah and gain new insights to the Torah. For more information, visit jewishfountainhills.com. 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 486 920 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.
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.
Shabbat Morning Service: 10 a.m. Ina Levine Jewish Community Center, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Join Congregation Shomrei Torah for a traditional/egalitarian service led by Hazzan Bernard Savitz with kiddush following service. Zoom available. For more information, visit cstaz.org or contact 602-376-4392.
THURSDAYS Ladies Torah & Tea: 10:30 a.m. Online. Learn about the women of the Torah with Mrs. Leah Levertov. Use this link: ourjewishcenter.com/ virtual. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.
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.
Talmud - Makkos: 11 a.m. Online. Learn with Rabbi Shlomy Levertov. Cost: Free. Use this link: JewishParadiseValley.com/YJPclass. For more information, visit chabadaz.com.
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 SteinKokin and Cantor Sarah Bollt. For more information or to join, visit bethelphoenix.com.
The Science of Everything: 11 a.m. Online. Explore the most fundamental work of Chassidut: the Tanya, with Rabbi Boruch. Use this link: zoom.us/j/736434666. Cost: Free. For more information, visit chabadaz.com. Torah Study with Rabbi Lev Ettelson: 11 a.m. Beth Emeth Congregation of the West Valley, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. Join Rabbi Ettelson for a discussion of the weekly Torah portion. For more information, call 623584-7210 weekdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mindfulness Gatherings: 12 p.m. Online. Hosted by Hospice of the Valley via Zoom. Cost: Free. To join by phone, dial 1-253-2158782, meeting ID 486 920 2119#, to get the Zoom link or for further questions contact Gill Hamilton at ghamilton@hov.org or 602-748-3692. 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.
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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.
about topical issues, like Q&As with medical professionals, entertainers and lectures. Cost: Free. For more information, visit sosaz.org/ virtual or email Rabbi Levi Levertov at levi@ sosaz.org.
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.
TUESDAYS Movie Discussion Group: 11 a.m. Online. Join Smile on Seniors on the third Tuesday of every month hosted by Issy Lifshitz. Cost: Free. For full details and the movie of the month visit sosaz.org/virtual or email Rabbi Levi Levertov at levi@sosaz.org.
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 480-6124413 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.
Seniors MONDAYS Fitness Xpress Series with Zoe: 11-11:30 a.m. Online. Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. Workout features weight and band exercises as well as yoga poses. Exercises will be demonstrated standing, but can also be done sitting in a chair. Cost: Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. Sip & Schmooze: 11 a.m. milk + honey, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Sip on kosher coffee or tea, enjoy a pastry and schmooze every second Monday of the month. RSVP appreciated to chani@sosaz.org or 602-4927670. For more information, visit sosaz.org. Featured Presentation: 12:30 p.m. Online. Join Smile on Seniors Mondays and Wednesdays to learn from a variety of presenters
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WEDNESDAYS Fitness Fun with Zoe: 10-10:45 a.m. Online. Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. Workout features light chair exercises with optional weights. Cost: Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. Chair Yoga with Zoe: 11-11:45 a.m. Online. Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. 45-minute chair yoga class. No prior yoga experience required. Cost: Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. THURSDAYS Memory Cafe: 10-11 a.m. first Thursday; 1-2 p.m. third Thursday. Online. Presented by Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Program for those with changes in their thinking or memory, mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder, along with their care partners. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/our-services/ older-adult-services/memory-cafe/. In the Kitchen with Benita: 12:30 p.m. Join Smile on Seniors on the fourth Thursday of every month for some delicious cooking or baking fun! Cost: Free. For full details visit sosaz.org/virtual or email Rabbi Levi Levertov at levi@sosaz.org. FRIDAYS 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. Sit or Stand Ballet Class: 12-12:45 p.m. Online. Presented by JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment. Jennifer Cafarella Betts and Friends from Ballet Theatre of Phoenix teach this class. Grab a chair or you can stand next to a chair or counter. Cost: Free. For more information, visit jfcsaz.org/cse. Musical Friday: 12:30 p.m. Online. Join Smile on Seniors on the first Friday of every month for a musical presentation. Cost: Free. For full details visit sosaz.org/virtual or email Rabbi Levi Levertov at levi@sosaz.org. JN
Two Adjacent Plots in the Jewish Section at Green Acres. Significantly discounted from current sales prices. Owner will share transfer costs with the buyer. Contact Glenn Lippman either at 602-885-2069 or lipberry2@gmail.com AUGUST 21, 2026
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