Even Through a Window, Birding Offers Connection to Natural World

Birds are wild animals that are accessible to everyone, everywhere,” says Dan Weisz. The Tucson native rediscovered his love of birding, or birdwatching, when he retired eleven years ago from a career as a public school administrator. Exploring new or bygone pursuits in retirement reminds Weisz of being in… Read more »

At 100 and 99, Murray and Honey Manson are Going Strong

It probably wasn’t his old jogging habit that helped Murray Manson reach age 100 in August. That just ruined his knees, he says. Murray, who now walks with a cane, attributes his longevity to luck. His wife, Honey, suspects it may have something to do with eating a healthier… Read more »

Of Blessed Memory: Barbara Soble

Barbara Soble (nee Becker) passed away on September 29, 2024. She was born in Natick, Mass. and moved to Tucson in 1958. She was a member of the Jewish community during her early years. She owned a needlepoint store and clothing store until her retirement. After retirement, Barbara was… Read more »

High Holiday Services in our Southern Arizona Community

Rosh HaShanah begins the evening of October 2. Yom Kippur begins the evening of October 11.           Please click the links below for High Holy Days congregational information: Congregation Chofetz Chayim (Orthodox) (520) 747-7780 The Shul of Tucson (Orthodox) (520) 975-4489 Tucson Torah Center (Orthodox) Congregation… Read more »

Tucson Teens Bring Home Medals from Detroit JCC Maccabi Games®

This summer, ten teen athletes from Tucson made their way to Detroit for an unforgettable week of competition at the JCC Maccabi Games®—an Olympic-style event that blends high-energy sports with personal growth and community building. These young athletes didn’t just represent Tucson; they left their mark, returning home with… Read more »

Chopped: Cooking, Cooperation, Competition, Creativity, Connection … and New Faces

The only thing more bitter than the cacao, was the sting of defeat after the judges’ final ruling. In a dazzling display of teamwork and efficiency under pressure, several teams of four students each took on the challenge of preparing a three-course meal, while racing the clock, in the… Read more »

High Holiday Sermons Mix Concerns over Israel and Antisemitism with Strength, Comfort, and Hope

The Jewish High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, also known as the Days of Awe, combine the ancient themes of repentance and renewal with the highest attendance most synagogues see all year. For rabbis, this makes writing High Holiday sermons a weighty task, and this year… Read more »

Tessa Minardi and Benny Louchheim are Wed

Mazel Tov to Rabbi Thomas and Marcia Louchheim on the wedding of their youngest son, Benny, to Tessa Minardi. Benny and Tessa were married on Sunday, September 15, in Saratoga Springs, New York. Emeritus Rabbi Louchheim of Kol Ami Synagogue officiated at the blessed ceremony. Tessa and Benny met… Read more »