Marsha Foresman
The Jewish Friendship Group is alive, very well, and thriving. The in-person activities began on Nov. 29, 2021, with a short annual meeting and a Chanukah dinner and celebration. The dinner choices were brisket or salmon (which were both delicious), tasty carrots in brown sugar, and hash brown potatoes. Next year, someone must teach the SaddleBrooke One chef how to make true potato latkes (nominations are welcome).
In addition to the joy of seeing and hugging friends again after such a long drought, members lovingly brought gifts for the children in the Diamond Center. The gifts filled the back of an SUV, and such generosity brought tears to the eyes of those accepting them at the Diamond Center.
On Dec. 9, a dozen women met at the home of Rhoda Kaplan to discuss Exile Music by Jennifer Steil. No one in the group needed to be educated about the Shoah and the problems, as well as the relief of leaving Europe during the 1940s. However, the main discussion centered around the angst of culture shock when a family leaves a world of culture and has to make a new life in a relatively primitive environment. The discussion was lively. The next book group is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 13, at the home of Marilyn Anthony. The book to be discussed is Kaddish.com by Nathan Englander, and the discussion will be led by Barb and Jack Rosenthal.
The December Ladies’ Coffee was hosted by Esta Goldstein. As always, coffee, conversation, and solidifying friendships was the order of the day. The January coffee will be held on Jan. 5 at the home of Debbie Flato. This is a members-only event and is limited to 20 women.
The December Jewish Friendship Group get-together was a pizza and trivia night on December 22. Competition is always strong to win bragging rights as to which team can provide the most correct information about Jewish subjects.
January 2022 will continue to provide events to keep everyone busy. In addition to the Book Group and Ladies’ Coffee, Jewish Friendship Group members will be able to tour the new Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum in the historic old courthouse in downtown Tucson on Friday, Jan. 28. A docent will provide background information on the collection of gems that outgrew its home on the U of A campus. A lunch stop is planned for the return home.
Looking ahead, the annual potluck is planned for March 23.
The Jewish Friendship Group welcomes anyone interested in gathering with like-minded SaddleBrooke friends. For further information, contact Marilyn Anthony at 520-812-1455.