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CHRONICLE SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2026 | ELUL 5786 - TISHREI - CHESHVAN 5787

THE VOICE OF VOL. 79 NO. 5

Shanah Tovah

5787

LONG BEACH

JEWISH FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL

NOVEMBER 12 - 19, 2026 RED CARPET PREMIERE • FILM SCREENINGS • RECEPTIONS FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT • PICKLE-MAKING WORKSHOP

SPECIAL EVENT! MOSTLY KOSHER LIVE CONCERT AT THE J! SUN • NOV 15 • 4 PM • ALL AGES

GET MORE WITH A FILM FEST PASS Includes all festival events, unlimited drinks and refreshments at all receptions, preferred seating, and skip-the-line VIP access to all films

All events held at Alpert JCC Sponsorships, VIP Passes, and Tickets at jewishlongbeach.org

2 | September - October 2026

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

The Shofar Calls Us to Wake Up Erik Ludwig, Ph.D. | Jewish Long Beach As I write this reflection, the temperature outside is in the high 80s, and the pool at the Alpert JCC, which I just left, is a cacophony of swimmers. So why, as I sit in my office preparing to write, am I concerned with Jewish disconnection?

we lose them, we lose our connection to peoplehood. In Wolfson’s terms, we cease to be relational. Rosh Hashanah speaks powerfully to my fears of disconnection.

Perhaps that is one of the most important questions of Rosh Hashanah. Who are we becoming? And what kind of community are we creating?

Perhaps it is my natural reflective nature this time of year as the High Holy Days approach. Regardless of the reason, I find that many of my conversations with friends and colleagues are centered on the concept of Jewish connection. More accurately, I am concerned about how we, as a Jewish people, are disconnecting.

Yes, often it is reduced to the Jewish New Year. I am guilty of doing this myself. However, Rosh Hashanah is an important moment of interruption. We stop. We reflect. We take stock of who we have been and who we want to become. And at the center of that experience is the sound of the shofar.

It is my belief that the Alpert JCC, in our service to connection, is also an antidote to disconnection. It is a gathering place for intentionally building Jewish peoplehood. A place where we do more than swim together, learn together, and celebrate together. It is a place where we come to know one another.

In his 2013 book Relational Judaism: Using the Power of Relationships to Transform the Jewish Community, Dr. Ron Wolfson makes the argument that synagogues and JCCs are often hyper-focused on programs and attendance and miss the opportunity to build relationships that are a more meaningful driver of engagement.

It calls us out of complacency. It hollers at us to become aware again. It reminds us that our lives are not lived in isolation. Even the work of teshuvah, of turning, returning, and repairing, is fundamentally relational. We return to ourselves. We return to our values. We return to one another.

Robert Putnam captured this tension more than two decades ago in Bowling Alone, his examination of the decline of American civic and communal life. His title came from a simple observation. Americans were still bowling, but increasingly they were bowling alone. Bowling alleys were still profitable because we were still bowling. What had vanished was the community that existed around bowling. Putnam warned that “the social capital that we have inherited from previous generations is being depleted.” Social capital is the web of relationships, trust, and shared experiences that connect us to one another. If

The shofar is our call to wake up.

In that sense, Rosh Hashanah offers a Jewish response to Bowling Alone. That idea has profound implications for the work of building Jewish community. Our challenge is not simply to get more people into our buildings or increase participation in programs. It is to create places where people encounter one another. Places where friendships form. Where generations meet. Where Jewish wisdom provides a language for making meaning out of our lives and a framework for caring for one another. Our future cannot simply be about preserving what we inherited. We are

obligated to renew it.

And this work requires all of us. Building a community of connection and belonging does not happen by accident. It happens because people choose to care for one another. As we enter a new year, I hope you will consider supporting Jewish Long Beach and helping us create more opportunities for people to find connection, community, and one another. Thank you for living generously. From my family to yours, Shanah tovah u’metukah. May it be a good and sweet new year.

Elul 5786 - Tishrei - Cheshvan 5787 | 3

CHRONICLE THE VOICE OF JEWISH LONG BEACH PUBLISHED SINCE 1947

FEATURES

Synagogue Directory R

6100 Hefley St., Westminster, CA 92683 Rabbi Nancy Myers 714.892.6623 | templebethdavid.org tbdavid@templebethdavid.org

ONE GIFT: SIX LIFELINES Ways to Give Back O

7 9

Beth David

Chabad of Los Alamitos & Cypress

12340 Seal Beach Blvd. Suite B-219, Seal Beach, CA 90740 Rabbi Shmuel Marcus 714.828.1851 | chabadlosal.com smarcus@jewishcypress.com

SHALOM 5787 High Holy Day Greetings

Chabad of West Orange County/ Congregation Adat Israel 5052 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach, CA 92649 Rabbi Aron David Berkowitz 714.846.2285 | chabadhb.com info@chabadhb.com

MARKING OCTOBER 7TH Commemoration Programs

Congregation Lubavitch

3981 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807 Rabbi Yitzchok Newman 562.596.1681 yitzyg@aol.com

DEPARTMENTS 3 8 10 13

Message from the CEO 15 Rabbinic Reflections 18 Alpert JCC Programs 19 Alpert JCC Member-Owned Business

Hebrew Academy Community Bulletin Tributes & Memoriam

Mail to: PO Box 2901 Seal Beach, CA 90740 1421 Northwood Rd., Seal Beach, CA 90740 President Carol A. Stern Levine Direct 562.505.3622 | Membership 562.430.7040 congsholomlwsb@gmail.com O

On the Cover September marks the start of the High Holy Day season, beginning with Rosh Hashanah, the New Year, on the evening of September 11, 2026. One of the ways we celebrate is by blowing the shofar (ram’s horn). Photo ©2026: Yamit Shimonovitz / Jewish Federations of North America

President, Board of Directors

Susan Paletz

Chief Program Officer

Amanda Morell Chiu

Erik Ludwig, PhD

Kevin Giser

Yolanda Placencio

Rachel Roberts

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Development Administrator & Co-editor

Marketing Manager & Co-editor

Temple Beth Shalom

3635 Elm Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807 Rabbi Ben Richards 562.426.6413 | tbslb.org office@tbslb.org R

Editorial and advertising queries, please call 562.426.7601 x1314 or write chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org. Ad & Copy deadline for November/December 2026 issue: October 7, 2026 Chronicle ©2026 Jewish Long Beach. All Rights Reserved.

Temple Beth Ohr

15721 E. Rosecrans Ave., La Mirada, CA 90638 Interim Rabbi Michael Mayersohn 714.521.6765 | tbolm.org office@tbolm.org

Jewish Long Beach is a 501(c)3 with tax I.D. 95-1647830

Kathryn McDermott

Shul By The Shore

4545 E. 4th St., Long Beach, CA 90814 Rabbi Abba Perelmuter 562.621.9828 | shulbytheshore.org rabbi@shulbytheshore.org R

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way 3801 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90815-1791 562.426.7601 | jewishlongbeach.org Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Member

Congregation Sholom of Leisure World, Seal Beach

Temple Israel

269 Loma Ave., Long Beach, CA 90803 Rabbi Scott Fox 562.434.0996 | tilb.org info@tilb.org I

Temple Ner Tamid of Downey 10629 Lakewood Blvd., Downey, CA 90241 Rabbi Daniel Mehlman 562.861.9276

Conservative

Orthodox

Independent

Reform

Marketing Coordinator & Co-editor

Alpert Jewish Community Center Holiday Hours CLOSED: Sept 12, Sept 21, Sept 26, Oct 3, Nov 26, Dec 25, Jan 1 Close at 5 PM: Sept 11, Sept 20, Sept 25, Oct 2, Nov 27, Dec 24, Dec 31 Open 9 AM - 5 PM: Sept 7 The appearance of product or establishment advertising in The Chronicle does not constitute an endorsement of kashruth. Opinions printed in The Chronicle do not necessarily reflect those of Jewish Long Beach. The publication of a paid political advertisement does not constitute endorsement of any candidate, political party or political position by Jewish Long Beach or any employee.

4 | September - October 2026

See events hosted by organizations on page 18 of this issue

ONE GIFT ONE GIFT Six Lifelines Six L ifelines

Support Jewish Long Beach in Honor of the High Holy Days Todah Rabah - Week of Giving 2026 Jewish Long Beach is immensely grateful to each and every supporter of our inaugural Week of Giving Campaign, which raised $120,782.52 between July 13 through 19th. Each gift, ranging from $18 to $8,000, upholds the meaningful work of Jewish Long Beach, categorized into six lifelines. Alpert JCC: Sustaining the J as the central gathering place for Jewish life and culture Camp Komaroff & Early Childhood: Expanding our capacity for these signature youth programs Safety & Security: Improving safety protocols for Jewish agencies across Greater Long Beach Seniors & Caring for the vulnerable: Ensuring the most vulnerable have companionship and meaningful programs Health & Wellness: Creating a space for both physical and spiritual development to enhance life quality Israel & Overseas: The Jewish response to natural disasters and crises around the world “Together, we create a welcoming tent for all to connect, thrive, and sustain Jewish culture, values, and belonging for generations to come.” Norma Stein, VP of Fund Development More Ways to Give Back Giving to Jewish Long Beach is a unique experience, with each donation creating an opportunity to amplify causes you care about. Jewish Long Beach donors can direct gifts of any amount to the lifelines that speak to them. The upcoming High Holy Day season is

the perfect time to consider performing a mitzvah by supporting Jewish Long Beach. Here are some current and upcoming tzedakah opportunities:

Long Beach Gives September 24, 2026 Supporting all senior programming at the J. From helping a senior make friends at the Jessie Butler Senior Luncheon, expanding their vocal talents with the Barbara Alpert Singing Circle, or stretching out in a fitness class, your donation goes a long way for our Long Beach seniors Donate at longbeachgives.org/AlpertJCC Tzedakah Box (seasonal) Every quarter, we select a cause or nonprofit to direct donations made to the tzedakah box located at our Welcome Desk (and online!). This fall, we are supporting Toys for Simcha, a nonprofit in Israel dedicated to providing toys for children in hospitals. Planned Giving Create your own custom gift for the programs or causes you feel the most passionate about with a planned legacy gift. Through charitable bequests, gift annuities, lead trusts, remainder trusts, real estate and life insurance, you can sustain the J for generations to come with unique benefits to yourself and your loved ones. There is no cost to meet to discuss your estate plan. To make a difference today, contact Kevin Giser at kgiser@jewishlongbeach.org or 562.426.7601 ext. 1011 Elul 5786 - Tishrei - Cheshvan 5787 | 5

CSULB JEWISH STUDIES

Dr. Steven J. Ross: “The Secret War Against Hate” Dr. Jeffrey Blutinger

The CSULB Jewish Studies Program is delighted to welcome Dr. Steven J. Ross back to Long Beach for his talk “The Secret War Against Hate: American Resistance to Antisemitism and White Supremacy.” This will be at the Alpert JCC (3801 E. Willow St., Long Beach), on Thursday, September 10th, at 7 pm. The end of the Second World War is often remembered as the beginning of a more peaceful and tolerant era in the US, but the reality was far darker: antisemitism and racism increased after the war, and the number of organized hate groups more than doubled between 1940 and 1946. In his talk, based on his latest book, Dr. Ross tells the story of the ordinary Americans who decided to fight back. Working through clandestine networks, these civilian

6 | September - October 2026

operatives infiltrated Nazi and white All Jewish Studies events are free and open supremacist organizations, gathered to the public. RSVP at jewishlongbeach.org intelligence, and helped thwart plots to bomb churches and synagogues. Steve Ross is Distinguished Professor, Dean’s Professor of History, and the Myron and Marian Casden Director of the Casden Institute for the Study of the Jewish Role in American Life. He is the author of several books, including Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics – which received a Pulitzer Prize nomination and a Film Scholars Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences – and Hitler in Hollywood: How Jews Foiled Nazi Plots Against Hollywood and America – which was named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History for 2018, and won the Richard Wall Memorial Award.

Shalom, 5787 New Year Greetings from Our Community Wishing us all a Sweet New Year! Emma, Kevin & Mookie

Shanah Tovah Jewish Long Beach Board of Directors

Wishing You a Happy & Healthy New Year Marc, Sybil, Rachael, David, Deborah, Lily, & Jonathan Tamaroff

Shanah Tovah

Wishing You a Happy & Healthy New Year

Wishing You a Happy & Healthy New Year Don & Andrea Kaiser & Family

Happy New Year Yolanda & Victor Placencio

Happy New Year Jessie Butler & Family; Ellen Ruimy & Family; Sara Butler & Family; Carla Hoffman & Family; Heidi Hardy & Family

L’Shanah Tovah The Kenigsberg Family

Wishing You a Happy & Healthy New Year

Wishing You a Happy & Healthy New Year Arlene & Rick Freeman

Sending you warm holiday wishes for 5787 Barbara & Lester Brown

Shanah Tovah

Wishing You a Happy & Healthy New Year Shirley Ross

Wishing you a year of health, joy and laughter Rosecarrie & Alan Brooks

Wishes for a Happy & Healthy New Year Lee & Barbara Shoag

Elul 5786 - Tishrei - Cheshvan 5787 | 7

REFLECTIONS

Our Spiritual Alarm Clock

Rabbi Ben Richards | Temple Beth Shalom Growing up as a mainly “High Holidays” Jew, I had a skewed idea about the frequency of particular Jewish prayers and practices. In my mind, the Chassidic Kaddish melody was the main one used at every service because people loved it and would sing along. Brisket was the obvious choice for a nosh following the weekly seven hours of praying. And the shofar was perpetually used to get us to pay attention to our behavior. As I grew and learned more, I found that services weren’t always seven hours, brisket wasn’t affordable as an everyday nosh, and any melody loses its magic if you overuse it. But perhaps most surprising of all was learning that the shofar was not a constant in the synagogue. Of course, I understood that too much of a good thing could lose its meaning, but I imagined the shofar differently.

The Rambam (and I) understood the shofar as a kind of spiritual alarm clock. The shofarblasts shake us from our stupor, reminding us that the time is now to fix our mistakes and commit to better actions going forward. As a kid, I figured that the best time to remind someone to be aware and take action was every day. What does it hurt to remind people every day?

And what keeps us on track in between those blasts are the quieter reminders. A word of gratitude upon waking. A pause for prayer in the middle of a busy day. The Shema's daily invitation to remember what matters most. The shofar may be reserved for the moments when we all need to awaken together, but every ordinary day offers us countless opportunities to awaken ourselves. The key is to take those quiet reminders as seriously as The infrequent usage of the shofar in the shofar itself. If we stop hitting snooze on services came as a bit of a shock, but over time the little reminders, we'll be ready when the I’ve come to terms with the fact and even shofar sounds its annual alarm. developed a rationale for it. Indeed, things remain more special or dare I say, holy, if we Take it one moment at a time and it will be don’t overdo them. But perhaps more shofar, so good! importantly, you cannot constantly gather Wishing everyone a meaningful High everyone for reminders. If we blew the shofar Holiday season! every day, we might stop paying attention. The shofar therefore is sounded just a few Rabbi Ben Richards times a year to remind our communities to wake up, repair what they’ve broken, and recommit to living holy lives.

Making Jewish Life More Accesible Jewish Connections Network

DID YOU KNOW? The Jewish Connections Network helps make Jewish life more affordable for eligible families by providing financial assistance for programs that foster learning, connection, and belonging.

SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR: Alpert JCC Membership Alpert JCC Early Childhood Education

Alpert JCC Camp Komaroff JCC Maccabi Games® (Team Long Beach)

BECAUSE EVERY FAMILY DESERVES THE OPPORTUNITY TO BELONG. If your household includes someone who identifies as Jewish, you may be eligible for assistance. Simple. Confidential. Easy to Apply. Visit jewishlongbeach.org/jcn to get started! Jewish Connections Network A Program of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Long Beach Helping remove financial barriers so more families can participate in Jewish life, learning, and community. 8 | September - October 2026

camaraderie of the music festival followed by the horror of the Hamas attack. In his talk, Klein will discuss both the joy of the festival, along with his harrowing escape under rocket and gunfire. Preregistration is required. Security protocols in place. For more information, please contact Elisha Breton at ebreton@jewishlongbeach.org

Reflecting on Three Years

As we gather in remembrance of October 7, we hold in our hearts the profound pain and loss experienced by so many. We remember the lives taken, families forever changed, and the communities whose sense of safety was shattered. Jewish tradition teaches that every person is created b'tzelem Elohim—in the Divine image—and that our humanity is deeply interconnected. As Pirkei Avot reminds us, our lives are bound together, calling us to respond to one another with compassion, dignity, and care. At Jewish Long Beach, we mark this day through opportunities for remembrance, reflection, learning, and resilience. May our

gathering and our acts of kindness bring light in a time of darkness, strengthen our shared humanity, and sustain both our grief and our hope for a more peaceful future.

Commemoration Events

Speaker: Shye Klein Tuesday, October 6, 7 pm, Free Presented with CSULB Jewish Studies Please join us for a profoundly moving photo/video presentation and Q&A with Shye Klein, a photographer and survivor of the 10/7 Nova Music Festival Massacre.

Shye Klein, Canadian-Israeli Photographer

Klein, a Canadian-Israeli photographer, arrived at the Nova Music Festival around 2 am on October 7th, with the goal of experiencing his first-ever rave. His photographs document the happiness and

For more information, please contact Susan Paletz at spaletz@jewishlongbeach.org

PJ Library Tot Shabbat Friday, October 23, Time TBD A brief, family-friendly Shabbat service and hands-on mitzvah projects supporting communities in Long Beach and Israel.

See details for both events at jewishlongbeach.org

Elul 5786 - Tishrei - Cheshvan 5787 | 9

ALPERT

Your Center for Life!

GET YOUR FIRST MONTH FOR

$9.08 $9.08

Fitness, Wellness & Aquatics

Visions & Vino with Lauren Friedman Wednesday | Sept 2 | 6 PM | Free Back by popular demand! Make your vision board for the new year!

908 Day Pool Party Tuesday | Sept 8 | 4 - 7 PM | Free Kick back at the Mary Alpert Pool for a beautiful day in the 908 with swimming, music, and treats! See our special membership deal at jewishlongbeach.org

FOR NEW INDIVIDUALS: ADULTS, COUPLES, & FAMILIES

CSULB OLLI Free Forums Thursday, Sept 17, 2 PM: End-of-Life Planning Thursday, Oct 29, 4 PM: CPR & AED Awareness

YO U R C E N T E R FO R Pickleball • Aquatics • Preschool • Group Fitness Camp • Arts & Culture • And More!

Long Beach Gives Thursday | Sept 24 Donate to support senior programming at the J.

TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY.

Artist Reception with Jen Lewis Tuesday | Sept 29 | 6 PM | Free

10 | September - October 2026

Hours: Mon - Thurs 6 AM - 9 PM, Fri 6 AM - 6 PM, Sat - Sun 7 AM - 5 PM See upcoming holiday hours on Page 4

Culture & Community

CSULB Jewish Studies Free Lectures Thursday, Sept 10, 7 PM: “The Secret War Against Hate” w/ Dr. Steven J. Ross Tuesday, Oct 6, 7 PM: Marking October 7th w/ Shye Klein

ONE DAY ONLY! SEPT 8, 2026

Emily Gould egould@jewishlongbeach.org | ext. 1093 Children, Youth & Families

On the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus One Sommer Way | 3801 E. Willow St. | Long Beach, CA | 90815 (562) 426-7601(562) | alpertjcc.org 426-7601 || jewishlongbeach.org

Candidate Forum Thursday | Oct 8 | Time TBD | Free Review propositions for the upcoming election and hear from local candidates. Mah Jongg with Mahj Club Beginner Series: Friday | Oct 9, 16, 23 | 10 AM Beginner Retreat: Saturday | Oct 24 | 10 AM Register for all classes at jewishlongbeach.org Zena and Pauline Gatov Gallery September: Stars of David Project by Jen Lewis October: Jewish War Veterans & The Making of “Valor & Virtue”

FAMILY SUKKOT DINNER Thurs • Oct 1 • 5 PM Register at jewishlongbeach.org

Susan Paletz spaletz@jewishlongbeach.org | ext. 1012 Programs & Development

JborhoodLBC Pool Party

7 AM - 6 PM Care

Now enrolling 18m - 5 yr alpertjccece.org alpert jcc early childhood education ROOTED IN PLAY, GROUNDED IN PURPOSE

With Jborhood LBC

Sunday | Sept 27 | 1 PM | Free Make a splash in the Mary Alpert Pool with food, mocktails, and activities for all ages! Bluefin Prep Swim Team

Sponsored by Dr. Barry & Rita Zamost

Open to ages 6 - 14. Register today at jewishlongbeach.org Swim Lessons

With Premier Aquatics

JUST DINK IT!

FallSHABBATDinner Fall

Dinner

Fri • Sept 18 • 5:30 pm

Playground Play • Kiddush & Songs $5 Pasta Dinner • Drinks RSVP at jewishlongbeach.org

Pickleball at the J

ALL SKILL LEVELS WELCOME! Courts open 7 days/week

J Baby (Parent & Me) Fridays | 9:30 AM | Free & Open to All Bond with your little one and connect with other parents every Friday over morning Shabbat! Ages 0 - 12m.

FIND YOUR PICKLEBUDDIES Join our WhatsApp Group! jewishlongbeach.org

Co-ed Youth Basketball With BBallers Hoops

Blood Drive

SEPT GET A $15 E-GIFT CARD

Wed | 9 AM - 2 PM

Schedule your appointment at jewishlongbeach.org Dani Reynozo dreynozo@jewishlongbeach.org | ext. 1013 Family Engagement

EXTENDED HOURS

Dana Schneider-Chanzit dschneider@jewishlongbeach.org | ext. 1067 Jewish Life & Culture

Michelle Sears msears@jewishlongbeach.org | ext. 1320 Membership

Leah Stone lstone@jewishlongbeach.org | ext. 1056 Fitness & Wellness Elul 5786 - Tishrei - Cheshvan 5787 | 11

P U Z Z L E CO R N E R Welcome to our Puzzle Corner!

Word Search C B N Z R P Y F A K I K S W I H S S A D H N Y O A E F H I A T R R O C U V W C A W B H G D

E W Y J R H P J A V L N M W A Y U H O H S V A A Z L H Z L H B A S L H O Q C R P V A U T S

Apple Beginning Challah

Fast Honey Lulav

E A R H F D B O P L E N A X G R V X F A J D L L G U U Q L T A T S Y W A T N F Y V T A P P

Y U E N O Y N V F O S F Z M E

S A Y C U M N O K W X A K G R U A D R Q H E W N H R E H N U T X G I A G N S N D R R Q G S A P C K W H M S T V S V M D T

New Year Rosh Hashanah Shanah Tovah

Shofar Sukkah Synagogue

Women’s Weekend

Sept 25 - 27, 2026 G a t hin e r e d Gratitude

Brandeis-Bardin Campus, Simi Valley Co-Chairs: Andrea Salisbury & Pamela Weinstein Open to All Women Ages 18+

Register at jewishlongbeach.org Have questions? Contact Susan Paletz at spaletz@jewishlongbeach.org 12 | September - October 2026

R U H K E I A O U K G K F J L

SPOTS EN STILL OP

This edition is all about the High Holy Days. The High Holy Days, consisting of Rosh Hashanah (New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), make up the first 10 days of the Jewish New Year. These holidays commemorate concepts such as renewal, forgiveness, freedom, and joy. Holiday Hours 9/11: Close at 5 PM • 9/12: Closed • 9/20: Close at 5 PM 9/21: Closed • 9/25: Close at 5 PM • 9/26: Closed 10/2: Close at 5 PM • 10/3: Closed

Family Sukkot Dinner Thurs • Oct 1 • 5 PM • Alpert JCC Celebrate the fall harvest (Sukkot) with a festive community dinner in the sukkah! Songs + Blessings with Cantor Cooper & Rabbi Richards Hands-On Sukkot Experience Pasta Dinner + Cider Bar + Desserts Register at jewishlongbeach.org

Mazel Tov, Mazel Tov, Team Long Team Long Beach! Beach! 2026 JCC 2026 JCC Maccabi Maccabi Games® Games® 15U 3v3 Basketball: Gold 17U Golf: Gold 15U Boys Medley Relay: Silver 17U Girls Volleyball: Silver 17U Baseball: Bronze 17U 3v3 Basketball: Bronze 15U Girls Basketball: Bronze 15U Boys Relay: Bronze 15U Boys Shot Put: Bronze 15U Boys Soccer: Bronze Special Thanks Natalie Chernik - Delegation Head Howard Weiss - Assistant Delegation Head Tyler Bermundo - Coach, 17U Baseball Jordan Brown - Assistant Coach, 17U Baseball David Cherson - Assistant Coach, 15U Boys Soccer Matthew McFarren - Coach, 15U 3v3 Boys Basketball

Generously funded by the Jewish Connections Network

Jewish Long Beach

Support MemberOwned Business

Alpert JCC Member-Owned Business Directory

Are you an Alpert JCC member? Do you own a business? Then we want you to be a part of our Business Directory! Email chronicle@jewishlongbeach.org to claim your FREE business directory listing or purchase ad space to promote your business.

Alexandra Iov

Business Broker DRE #02368143 424.247.6961 alexandra@businessteam.com

Fram Heirloom Aloe Vera

Homegrown Aloe Vera, In-person sales every 2nd Saturday Long Beach, CA 480.206.4681 smfram@gmail.com foraged.com/foragers/framheirloom-aloe-vera

George Glikman

Service Driven Wealth Builders 510.384.8262 george.glikman@gmail.com

Interiors by SarahRose

Interior Designer & Home Stager SarahRose (Waltzman) Henkin 714.404.2247 hello@interiorsbysarahrose.com

No Worry Furry Care

House & Pet Sitter, Drop Ins, Vet Transport Karen Huck, Long Beach & surrounding areas noworryfurrycare@gmail.com @noworryfurrycare

Scott Smeltzer Photography

562.269.5448 scottsmeltzer@mac.com scottsphotographer.com

Word for Word

English & Writing Tutor All Grades, Free Consultation Lawrence Steinberg 562.305.1439 lwsteinberg@yahoo.com

Elul 5786 - Tishrei - Cheshvan 5787 | 13

Expanding Aging and Caregiving Services JFCS of Long Beach and Orange County Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Long Beach and Orange County (JFCS) has announced the launch of JFCS Aging & Caregiver Services, their new in-home care branch, designed to help seniors remain safe, comfortable, and independent in the place they know best - their own homes. This new service, starting in October, will provide families with trusted support and peace of mind while helping older adults maintain their independence and quality of life. Services will include assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, cognitive engagement, meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation to appointments, and light household support. Whether a senior needs a few hours of assistance each week or 24-hour support, services will be tailored to meet individual needs while promoting dignity, connection, and independence.

14 | September - October 2026

Every individual receiving services through JFCS Aging & Caregiver Services will begin with a comprehensive assessment of their needs and home environment. Based on that evaluation, staff will develop a personalized care plan designed to support the unique goals, preferences, and well-being of both the senior and their family. JFCS is uniquely qualified to provide these services, guided by Jewish values of compassion, dignity, and respect and backed by the expertise of social workers and mental health professionals. JFCS provides comprehensive case management and supportive services to more than 30 Holocaust survivors, helping them navigate the challenges of aging while remaining connected to their community. As Long Beach’s Jewish senior population continues to grow, JFCS is now expanding its

continuum of care, ensuring more older adults can age with dignity, confidence, and peace of mind in the comfort of their own homes. Families interested in this program can call JFCS directly to get added to the current waitlist. Contact JFCS 562.427.7916 • jfcs@jfcslboc.org

HEBREW ACADEMY

Every Jewish Child Thrives at Hebrew Academy

Hebrew Academy Launches the Center for Innovation and Advanced Learning For more than six decades, Hebrew Academy has been the cornerstone of Jewish education in Long Beach and Orange County, providing students with an exceptional education rooted in Torah values, academic excellence, and a deep sense of community. Now, the school is building on that legacy with an exciting new initiative that reflects both its enduring mission and its vision for the future: the Center for Innovation & Advanced Learning. Designed to serve students across the academic spectrum, the Center is founded on a simple yet transformative philosophy: every child deserves an education that meets them where they are and inspires them to go further. "Every student enters our classrooms with unique gifts, talents, and learning needs," said Rabbi Yitzchok Newman, Dean. "Our responsibility is not to expect every child to fit into one model of learning. Our responsibility is to create a model of learning that allows every child to flourish." This adherence to Proverbs 22:6 that reads, "Educate a child according to his way; even when he is old, he will not depart from it," has been guiding the work taking place inside Hebrew Academy's classrooms from the beginning. From Early Childhood through High School, teachers strive to know each student personally, challenge them academically, and nurture them spiritually. The new Center for Innovation & Advanced Learning brings that philosophy together in one comprehensive framework that provides both targeted intervention for students who need additional support and enriched opportunities for students ready to accelerate beyond traditional grade-level expectations. Rather than separating support services from enrichment programs, Hebrew Academy has intentionally unified them. "We believe excellence isn't about teaching every child the same thing at the same pace," explained Mrs. Rebecca Coen, Principal. "Excellence means helping every student experience meaningful growth every single day. Whether a child needs additional support to build confidence or is ready for greater academic challenges, our job is to provide the pathway that helps them succeed." The Center for Innovation & Advanced Learning, under the guidance of Dr. Meagan

Varona, provides individualized learning plans, small-group instruction, executive functioning support, enrichment seminars, advanced academic opportunities, projectbased learning, and opportunities for independent inquiry. Students receive instruction tailored to their individual needs while remaining fully engaged members of their classroom communities. The result is an educational environment where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, build resilience, and discover confidence in their abilities. Innovation at Hebrew Academy, however, extends well beyond a single program. Walk through the campus and you'll find classrooms filled with lively discussion, collaborative problem-solving, and joyful exploration. Students engage deeply with both Judaic and General Studies, integrating critical thinking across the curriculum, finding their creative sparks, and engaging in real-world application of their daily learning. Teachers encourage curiosity, ask students to wrestle with meaningful questions, and cultivate the habits of mind that prepare them not only for college but also for lives of purpose and leadership within the Jewish community. Equally important is Hebrew Academy's commitment to developing character. Academic achievement is viewed as only one component of a successful education. Through ongoing and consistent socialemotional learning, acts of chesed, leadership opportunities, and meaningful Jewish experiences, students develop the middot (character traits of kindness, responsibility, integrity, humility, and perseverance) that define outstanding citizens and committed members of the Jewish community. "Our mission is to educate the whole child," Rabbi Newman shared. "We want our graduates to be intellectually curious, deeply connected to their Jewish identity, compassionate toward

others, and prepared to make a meaningful contribution wherever life takes them." The Center for Innovation & Advanced Learning also reflects Hebrew Academy's belief that parents are true partners in education. Families work closely with teachers, specialists, and administrators to establish goals, celebrate growth, and ensure that every child receives the support and challenge they need to thrive. This collaborative approach has become one of the school's defining strengths. Faculty members work together across grade levels and disciplines, creating continuity in instruction while fostering an environment where students feel known, valued, and supported. As Jewish education continues to evolve to meet the needs of today's learners in a world that is changing faster than ever before, Hebrew Academy remains committed to embracing innovation while remaining firmly anchored in timeless Torah values. The launch of the Center for Innovation & Advanced Learning represents more than a new department or initiative. It is the school’s investment in the future of every Jewish student who walks through the school's doors. It is a statement that every learner matters; that every child deserves to be challenged; and that every child deserves to be supported. And that excellence is achieved not by expecting students to fit one mold, but by helping each child discover the unique path that allows them to reach their fullest potential. For families seeking an education that combines academic rigor, personalized learning, Jewish values, and a caring community, Hebrew Academy continues to demonstrate that the future of Jewish education is already taking shape - one student at a time.

SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING INSIDE HEBREW ACADEMY

HEBREW ACADEMY encouraged to think, create, and grow.

www.HACDS.org/Discover

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16 | September - October 2026

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COMMUNITY BULLETIN

What’s Happening in Your Community Beth David

Saturday, September 5 Selichot 7:30 pm Program on Forgiveness and Acceptance 7:45 pm Havdalah under the stars 9 pm Candlelit Selichot service with the Beth David Choir Sunday, September 6, 8 am-1:30 pm Blood Drive Schedule your donation at redcrossblood.org sponsor code TBD, or contact Cathy Niederman at cathbowls@gmail.com Thursday, September 10, 12 pm Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Nancy Myers Saturday, September 12 Tashlich at Bolsa Chica State Beach near Jack in the Box Friday, September 25 7 pm Service Scotch and Schnapps in the Sukkah immediately after service Saturday, September 26 9 am Study Ecclesiastes in the Sukkah 10:30 am Tot Shabbat Sukkot in the Sukkah Thursday, October 1, 12 pm Lunch & Learn in the Sukkah with Rabbi Nancy Myers Sunday, October 4, 9 am Women of Beth David opening social Yvette Staggs, Community Engagement Coordinator for Casa Youth Shelter of Los Alamitos, and Anne Millari, Chief Executive Officer of We Care in Los Alamitos. Speakers' topics will focus on "Hope and Resilience", and how we can nurture our community by giving these organizations a helping hand. A light breakfast will be served. Saturday, October 10, 9 am Torah Study with Rabbi Nancy Myers Study the rivalry of Cain and Abel Sunday, October 11, 12:30 - 4:30 pm Bob Seger Silver Tribute Band with live music and lunch. $40 general admission, $25 cushioned chairs Saturday, October 17, 9 am Body, Mind, Spirit Shabbat Choose a walk at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve or hike at Pacific Ridge Trailhead Sunday, October 25, 10 am Brotherhood Brunch League of Women Voters talk after brunch Registration is open for Beth David Religious School Class Schedule K - 3rd grade Sundays, 9 am -11:30 am 4th - 7th grade: 9 am - 11:30am + Tuesdays 4:15pm - 6:15pm 8th - 10th grade: Select Tuesdays, 4:15pm 6:15pm Contact Julie Nolte Director of Education tbdrschool@templebethdavid.org 714.892.6623 Ext 232

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Temple Beth Ohr

Saturday, September 5, 7 pm Selichot Friday, September 11, 7:30 pm Erev Rosh Hashanah Saturday, September 12 Rosh Hashanah 9 am Family Service 10 am Main service Sunday, September 20, 7:30 pm Kol Nidre Monday, September 21 Yom Kippur 9 am Family service 10 am Main Service 2:30 pm Afternoon service 4:40 pm Yizkor/Neila service Friday, September 25, 7:30 pm Sukkot Friday, October 2, 7:30 pm Simchat Torah Temple Beth Shalom Sunday, September 13, 6 pm Taschlich & Community Shofar Blowing at Scherer Park Friday, September 25, 7 pm Annual Sisterhood Sukkot Dinner. Registration and prepayment required. Saturday, October 24, 6:30 pm Children’s Havdalah Program. Registration required. Let TBS take care of the kids for the evening while you enjoy a night off. The kids will enjoy a light meal, programming, and fun. This event is sponsored in part by a generous grant from Jewish Long Beach. Please see our High Holiday Schedule on page 12. Registration is required to attend High Holiday services and for childcare. Please register by Tuesday, September 8. Shabbat Services Fridays, 6 pm, Saturdays,10 am For all events, please register at least three days prior, unless otherwise noted. Feel free to contact us at office@TBSLB.org or 562.426.6413 or visit TBSLB.org Events and services are open to the community. For adult learning classes and other events, please see our website and calendar.

Temple Israel

For September - October 2026 events, please see ad on back page.

Orange County Jewish Genealogical Society Sunday, October 25, 10 am on Zoom Hal Bookbinder Finding Ancestors in the 1850 Russian Revizskie Skazki

Free to members; $5 for non-members Register at ocjgs.org

Shul by the Shore

Friday, September 11 Erev Rosh Hashanah 7 pm Evening Service Saturday, September 12 Rosh Hashanah 9:30 am Morning Service 6:30 pm Mincha & Maariv Sunday, September 13 9:30 am Morning Service 11:30 am Sounding of the Shofar 5:30 pm Mincha & Tashlich Sunday, September 20 Erev Yom Kippur 6:45 pm Kol Nidrei & Evening Service Monday, September 21 Yom Kippur 9:30 am Morning Service 11:30 am Yizkor Memorial Service 5:30 pm Mincha/Neila Closing

COMMUNITY

Tributes & In Memoriam Jewish Long Beach From Jewish Long Beach Board, Leadership, & Staff IN MEMORY OF Vicky White Beloved sister & sister-in-law To Robin & Mulu Harrison Linda Zimmerman Alpert JCC Member

JFCS Long Beach & Orange County

Annual Campaign IN MEMORY OF Bea Webber Beloved mother From Susan Paletz

General Fund

Marilyn Goldfarb Beloved mother & mother-in-law To Rabbi Mark & Deborah Goldfarb From Sharon & Marty Kenigsberg From Sheila Craven Arlen Opper Beloved brother & brother-in-law To Shelley & Tom Carl From Linda & Sanford Simmons From Binnie & Jack Berro & Family

Marni Gaylord Beloved daughter To Ned & Barbara Gaylord Beloved sister To Candice Nantais

Janet Minkoff Beloved mother & mother-in-law To Daniel & Tammy Minkoff Kevin Sean O’Grady Beloved husband & father To Craig Kain & Asher Kain-O’Grady

IN HONOR OF Joanne Levy Julia Grant

Senior Fund

General Fund: Shul by the Shore

IN MEMORY OF Michael Steinberg Jill Nakaoki

IN HONOR OF Steven Faulkner From Lauren Friedman

For JFCS tributes call 562.427.7916

Hillel Kaiser Family Passover Dinner Fund

May Their Memory Be A Blessing

Matthew Scott Shahon Beloved son and brother To Anita Newman & Michelle Shahon

IN MEMORY OF Lea Stern Beloved sister & sister-in-law To Ben & Barbara Alhadeff From Andrea & Don Kaiser

Arlen Opper Beloved brother & brother-in-law To Shelley & Tom Carl

SPEEDY RECOVERY To Jay Alhadeff From Andrea & Don Kaiser

MAZEL TOV Cantor Marvin & Hannah Finnley On the birth of their granddaughter Penelope Emi Finnley

Jewish Connections Network

IN HONOR OF Gary Fields Happy Birthday

Liz Sharzer Ilsebill Wolfe

Basic Needs & Emergency Assistance Fund

IN HONOR OF Amy & Rich Lipeles From Lauren Friedman

Evelyn “Evie” Cacioppo Beloved mother To Eileen Tobey To Howie Tobey

IN HONOR OF Joanne Levy Jonathan Kass Nicolle Lubman Alan Levy

IN HONOR OF Gary Fields Happy Birthday From Joel & Ronna Kizner

Evelyn “Evie” Cacioppo Colleen Desh Victoria Feldman Marni Gaylord Janet Minkoff Kevin Sean O’Grady Arlen Opper Richard “Rick” Perlstein Claire Plager Matthew Scott Shahon Vicky White Linda Zimmernan

For Jewish Long Beach tributes call: 562.426.7601 ext 1314

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER SHABBAT CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES Sept 4: 6:56 pm Sept 11: 6:47 pm

Sept 18: 6:37 pm Sept 25: 6:27 pm

Oct 2: 6:17 pm Oct 9: 6:08 pm

Oct 16: 5:59 pm Oct 23: 5:51 pm

Oct 30: 5:44 pm

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Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage

PAID Permit No. 129 Long Beach, CA

Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus 3801 E. Willow St. • Long Beach, CA 90815