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contents May 2025 • www.lchaimmagazine.com

12 16

in this issue...

COVER STORY Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival.......................................................................................

1000 WORDS Canine Therapy Helps Soldiers Cope with PTSD........................................................................

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08 11

JFEST 2025

TEST YOUR JEWISH IQTM..........................................................................................................................

FOOD Moroccan Olive Chicken................................................................................................................................

FEATURES

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18 20 22 24 26 28

Local Hero Mira Shaffer.................................................................................................................................

Jewish Federation Invests in Women Leaders.............................................................................

Shurat HaDin: The Relentlesa Mission of Or Hikry......................................................................

MOROCCAN CHICKEN

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Finding Family in the Midst of War: Ukranian Orphanage......................................................

San Diego Humane Society......................................................................................................................

NEWS.....................................................................................................................................................................

COLUMNS Prayers & Passages.......................................................................................................................................

Mazel & Mishagoss........................................................................................................................................

PUBLISHERS Diane Benaroya & Laurie Miller EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alanna Maya CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laurie Miller CONTRIBUTORS Ariela Alush, Barbara Birenbaum, Franklin Felber, Donald H. Harrison, Jacob Kamaras, Stephanie Lewis, Salomon Maya, Jana Mazurkiewicz Meisarosh, Terra Paley, Mimi Pollack, Rachel Stern, Eva Trieger, Deborah Vietor, Chana Jenny Weisberg, Cheri Weiss

ADVERTISING & SALES Diane Benaroya: dianeb@lchaimmagazine.com 4

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TORAH l BY RABBI-CANTOR CHERI WEISS

prayers

& passages CHOOSING JUDAISM

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n a recent early Thursday morning at Kailua beach (near our home on the island of O‘ahu), the ocean water was warm and the waves calm. Three of us stood up to our chests under the early morning sun: Nina taking the final step to converting to Judaism, with Sandy and me as her witnesses. We each held onto one of Nina’s arms, releasing just long enough for her to completely immerse herself in the water.

Once… Twice… Three times. After the first two immersions, Nina recited the required blessings; she followed the third with: Shema Yisrael Adonai Eloheinu Adonai Echad (Hear O Israel, Adonai is our God, Adonai is One).

We joyfully ended the ceremony with a celebratory singing of “Siman Tov U’mazal Tov” as we returned to the dry, soft sand and our towels.

Several weeks prior, Nina had sat before the virtual Beit Din, a “court” of three rabbis who ask questions of conversion candidates in order to determine whether they should be welcomed into the Jewish people. Sounds ominous, but it is truly the opposite. With every conversion Beit Din I have participated in (as either the sponsoring rabbi or a member), the rabbis have been sincere and compassionate, always making sure to put the candidates at ease. After the candidate has been embraced and accepted by the Beit

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Din, the final step of the conversion process is immersion in a mikvah (ritual bath). With no mikvah available to us on O‘ahu, the ocean — a natural body of water — has been our delightful alternative.

Since October 7, 2023, the number of people asking me to assist them in their conversion process has increased dramatically.

While that may seem counter-intuitive, it is not. All of these people have been engaging in Jewish study and practice for an extended period of time, some for many years. Some have been raising Jewish children with their Jewish spouses; all have expressed feeling Jewish in their souls.

The catalyst for many to take that final step and officially convert to Judaism was the horror of October 7, the kidnapping of the hostages, and even the rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel rhetoric that has plagued our people in the aftermath. Without exception, everyone who has become a Jew by choice with my help has long been committed to living a Jewish life: attending worship services, honoring our holidays, making Shabbat holy in their own way. Many of them keep kosher to some degree, and all continue to expand their knowledge of what it means to be a Jew. On the upcoming holiday of Shavuot, we will celebrate the receiving of our Torah and

read the Ten Commandments as narrated in Deuteronomy. On Shavuot, we also read from The Book of Ruth, which honors the woman considered by many to be the first convert to Judaism. After the death of their husbands, Naomi (Ruth’s mother-in-law) encourages Ruth to remain with her own people in Moab rather than accompany Naomi back to Judah. Ruth refuses. “Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from you, for wherever you go, I will go; wherever you stay, I will stay, your people shall be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. Thus and more may the Lord do to me if anything but death parts me from you.”

(Ruth 1:16-17) After the completion of her immersion, Nina told me: “It was such a pivotal and beautiful experience. My heart and spiritual cup are full.” Other recent converts I have assisted have shared similar sentiments.

Whether we are Jews by choice or Jews since birth, may we all celebrate our Jewish heritage, teachings, and culture with full “spiritual cups” and open hearts.

Chag Sameach!

RABBI-CANTOR CHERI WEISS IS THE SPIRITUAL LEADER OF TEMPLE EMANUEL IN HONOLULU, HAWAII.

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L’CHAIM | BY ROLENE MARKS | JNS.ORG

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • MAY 2025

L’CHAIM

1000

WORDS CANINE THERAPY HELPS SOLDIERS COPE WITH PTSD

A

pril is a bittersweet month in Israel’s calendar. It is the month when the national holidays of Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut are marked in quick succession. It is a time of remembrance and celebration, but also a time that can be sensitive and triggering for members of Israel’s security forces.

Many communities made the decision this year not to have the traditional fireworks to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day, which begins on the night of April 30, out of sensitivity to soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Defense Ministry Deputy Director-General Limor Luria, who heads the ministry’s Rehabilitation Department, said that soldiers struggling with PTSD experience holidays and memorial days as especially straining, even more so during wartime. The Rehabilitation Department estimated that it would be treating approximately 100,000 wounded personnel by 2030, half of whom are expected to have suffered from PTSD. The number of suspected suicides among Israeli soldiers rose sharply since the Hamas-led assault on Oct. 7, 2023, according to the data published by the Israel Defense Forces. Since the start of the war, some 28 soldiers have died by suicide. In 2023, before the Hamas attack, 10 suicides were recorded.

Since the Oct. 7 onslaught, Luria said, the Rehabilitation Department has absorbed some 16,500 wounded soldiers, nearly half of whom were treated for PTSD. PTSD is defined by the Mayo Clinic as “a mental-health condition that is caused by an extremely stressful or terrifying event, either

being part of it or witnessing it.” It is often characterized by recurring nightmares, frequent panic attacks, depression and other trauma symptoms. Often, those with PTSD fear sleep because persistent nightmares torment them.

The wounds are not physical but internal, and for many years, PTSD has been misunderstood and often stigmatized. Treatment for veterans suffering from PTSD has not been adequate and has been neglected.

In April 2021, IDF veteran Itzik Saidyan set himself on fire outside the Petah Tikva offices of the Rehabilitation Department for disabled soldiers, after years of struggling to receive the care he had sought for PTSD. Following Oct. 7 and the rising number of soldiers experiencing PTSD, the Ministry of Defense has amped up efforts to treat this with a variety of different therapies, including special dog companions.

NOT ALONE IN THIS PROCESS

Animals play a vital role in helping PTSD sufferers process and cope with the emotions and challenges they face. Canine companions are excellent at providing a special kind of therapy. Therapy dogs help their soldier get active and leave the house because they need exercise.

They help rebuild trust and give unconditional love. Dogs also help soldiers make the sometimes-difficult transition to civilian life and help their humans feel protected.

Tal Morag, a board member of No Soldier Left Behind—a nonprofit organization that offers canine therapy—said that there is a clear distinction between therapy and service dogs.

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L’CHAIM

Veterans of the Israel Defense Forces with trainee pups in the Dogs 4 Soldiers program.

PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF LIRAN DIMRI/BELEV ECHAD.

“Soldiers live with the shock of battle that can come at any time,” she said. “There are certain triggers, like loud noise or the smell of blood, that can come at any time. It can take years to understand what is happening to them. We don’t question them, we give them the chance to tell their stories, and therapists assist them.”

She said the organization helps combat soldiers as well as police, paramedics and other security forces. “The dogs are trained not to be a service dog but just to be the soldier’s dog, and you can see the effect it has on him. The dog learns his owner, is able to smell that a panic attack is about to happen and can calm him down.”

Liran Dimri is the Dog Program Coordinator at Belev Echad, a nonprofit that is dedicated to restoring wounded IDF soldiers and offers a program called Dogs 4 Soldiers. In an interview, Dimri explained how man’s best friend can also be his best therapist and how therapy dogs can help alleviate the trauma of soldiers who have fought in the current war.

“People who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder usually prefer to be alone, locked up at home, and this is what causes them depression,” he said. “Dogs help them by getting them out of the house at least three times a day. In addition, when they are alone at 10

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • MAY 2025

home, the dog is always with them and seeks the person’s attention and treats them, so they don’t feel alone.”

Dimri, who understands firsthand the impact that PTSD has on families of soldiers, urges relatives to be actively involved in the training process.

“I myself suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. It mainly affects my sleep. I also got a dog three years ago, and it helped me a lot when I was depressed. So I can advise them on what to do and how it helped me. I also talk to their family members and explain to them about post-traumatic stress disorder and how they should deal with their children or partners, and that way it helps them deal with them better.”

Dimri concluded, “I encourage their family to come to dog training with them and to go through this process together, so that the soldiers understand that they are not alone in this process. Their family is with them, and so am I. In addition, it gives them quality time together at least once a week when we meet for training and eat together at the end of the evening.”

TEST YOUR JEWISH IQTM You’re Invited: Cabaret in Paris An Evening of Glamour and Giving Join Walden Family Services on May 9, 2025, from 6:00–10:00 PM at The Abbey on Fifth in Bankers Hill for a Parisian-inspired night to benefit foster youth.

Enjoy an immersive evening with: Live music and a hosted bar • Elegant dinner & performances Dancing, auctions, & an exclusive drawing For tickets visit: www.waldenfamily.org/cabaret-in-paris

1. In Fiddler on the Roof, how many daughters did Tevye and Golde have? __ a. 4 __ b. 5 __ c. 6 __ d. 7

wife, Bathsheba, whom King David had impregnated during the soldier’s time in battle? __ a. Uriah Heep __ b. Uriah the Hittite __ c. Ohr HaShalom __ d. Urim v’Tumim

2. Which was not one of the ten plagues in Egypt? __ a. Frogs __ b. Rats __ c. Lice __ d. Locusts

7. The First Aliyah from 1882 to 1903 was the first largescale immigration of Jews to the Land of Israel since the Roman exile. From where did the Jews of the First Aliyah primarily come? __ a. Pale of Settlement __ b. Germany __ c. Spain __ d. Ottoman Empire

3. Which German Jew is generally credited with founding Modern Orthodox Judaism as a defense against the Reform Movement in the mid-1800s? __ a. Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch __ b. Rabbi Samuel Holdheim __ c. Rabbi Abraham Geiger __ d. All of the above were Reform Movement leaders 4. Which Jew said, “There are only two ways to live your life.

One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”? __ a. Hillel __ b. Maimonides __ c. Albert Einstein __ d. David Ben Gurion 5. Which Jew said, “A Jew who does not believe in miracles is not a realist.”? __ a. Hillel __ b. Maimonides __ c. Albert Einstein __ d. David Ben Gurion 6. Which loyal soldier did King David have sent to the front lines to be killed, so that he could marry the soldier’s

8. In Jewish lore, what is a dybbuk? __ a. An evil spirit that takes possession of a living person __ b. A guardian angel __ c. A demon that rules in Gehinnom (hell) __ d. The evil inclination of an individual 9. How old was Abraham when he performed his own brit mila (circumcision)? __ a. 13 years old __ b. 40 years old __ c. 75 years old __ d. 99 years old 10. Which Jewish author and illustrator wrote and illustrated the classic children’s book, “Where the Wild Things Are”? __ a. Theodore Geisel __ b. A. A. Milne __ c. Maurice Sendak __ d. J. M. Barrie Answers on page 19. ©2025 Felber, Starmark, Inc., all rights reserved.

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COVER STORY | BY L'CHAIM STAFF Alex Edelman.

JFEST CELEBRATES ART IN SAN DIEGO The Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of Jewish culture and creativity 12

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • MAY 2025

COVER STORY

ow in its 32nd year, the Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Fest (JFest) has something for everyone.

Dynamic performances, captivating conversations, and unique cultural experiences that showcase the diversity of Jewish heritage through music, theater, speakers, and art will run May 21 through June 30.

Critically acclaimed comedian Alex Edelman headlines this year’s festivities with his latest show What Are You Going To Do. Known for his Tony- and Emmy-winning work on Broadway, Edelman will perform two nights at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre, Lawrence Family JCC, June 16 (sold out) and 17. “[Our headlining show this year is] really incredible because Alex Edelman depicts a contemporary Jewish experience in stand-up comedy and theatrical storytelling language,” Todd Salovey, founding artistic director of JFest said. “He captures so exquisitely what it is to be Jewish now in the world that we live in, and does it in a one-of-a-kind, kinetic style.”

Though based out of the JCC in La Jolla, the festival will host programs at venues across San Diego, including UCSD, Congregation Adat Yeshurun, the Leichtag Commons in Escondido, Enigma Theatre in Bay Park and the California Center for the Arts in Escondido.

“Doing programs with partners is one of our models for being successful and one of the things that’s always been best about JFest is recognizing that people feel comfortable with attending different venues, and that where the venue is has an impact on who comes to it,” Salovey said.

“We like to make our work accessible, we like we like to be embedded in the different communities of San Diego [so] that we can bring JFest to new audiences and to be able to do some really unique programs,” he added. “For our first 29 years, we were a program of San Diego Repertory Theater (The Rep) and The Rep birthed the festival and supported the festival programs for 29 years and was just was an amazing testament to how committed The Rep was to being the voice of the multiple communities of San Diego,” Salovey said. “We loved being part of The Rep, but when [it] closed its doors in 2022, we were fortunate enough to be fiscally sponsored by the Lawrence Family JCC, where we have been for the past three years.”

The festival opens on May 21 with Lily Henley: An Evening

N

“JFest is a celebration of why the Jewish people should continue; of what we bring to the world, and we do that through telling our stories, by sharing our accomplishments and bringing joy.”

of Sephardic Songs at Enigma Amphitheatre in Bay Park. The award-winning fiddler fuses Ladino and Hebrew with touches of Arabic, Turkish, and Persian into her song writing. Other musical performances at the festival include the Klezmer Summit, JFest’s yearly celebration featuring Yale Strom’s original cantata and band Hot Pstromi. Later in the festival, Grammy-nominated singer and touring band member with the legendary songwriter Leonard Cohen, Perla Batalla returns, and Jewish Broadway Composers will be celebrated in a new musical revue.

There’s a Place for Us–A Celebration of Jewish Broadway Composers will take place June 29 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido and June 30 at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre, Lawrence Family JCC. The musical revue will honor Jewish composers and lyricists who shaped the American musical theater, from George Gershwin and Irving Berlin to Leonard Bernstein, John Kander, Fred Ebb and Stephen Schwartz.

The 16th Women of Valor will be presented at two performances: June 5 at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre,

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COVER STORY

Lily Henley.

Lawrence Family JCC; and June 8 at The Hive at Leichtag Commons. Written by Ali Viterbi with Sarah Price Keating, Rebecca Myers, and Todd Salovey and directed by Todd Salovey the program will honor Tina Berenbaum, Becky Cherlin Baird, Silvana Christie, Dr. Laurie Greenberg, Lori Kaye (z”l), Rabbi Yael Ridberg.

“Women of Valor encompasses so much of who we are [at JFest],” Salovey said. “First of all, it celebrates six incredible women each year who have made significant and meaningful contributions to the San Diego community and the San Diego Jewish community in many different ways¾as artists, visionaries, people in education or people in medicine, as spiritual leaders¾and it really encompasses the idea of what valor is in the Jewish community.”

More than 100 women have been honored as part of the program, which features an original piece of new theater each year.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • MAY 2025

“In the 16 years of doing [this program], I’ve learned so much from every single woman we profile,” Salovey said. “We talk about fighting antisemitism, but we can’t define ourselves by being the victims of hatred. We are Jews today because we believe that being Jewish is important, and is a vital and a brilliant part of our lives.

“JFest is a celebration of why the Jewish people should continue; of what we bring to the world, and we do that through telling our stories, by sharing our accomplishments and by bringing joy,” he said.

THE LIPINSKY FAMILY SAN DIEGO JEWISH ARTS FESTIVAL RUNS MAY 21-JUNE 30. TICKETS RANGE FROM $25 TO $80 AND CAN BE PURCHASED ONLINE AT SDJFEST.ORG.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • MAY 2025

FOOD

MOROCCAN OLIVE CHICKEN

BY SHARON GOMPERTS AND RACHEL ENQUIES SHEFF, SEPHARDIC SPICE GIRLS

O

live Chicken is a classic recipe from the Moroccan kitchen.

Marinating in a white wine, spice and herb-filled marinade, then slow cooking in the oven results in a moist, tender chicken that falls off the bone.

INGREDIENTS 1 spatchcocked chicken 1 24 oz can pitted green olives in brine 1 cup white wine 1 cup water For the Marinade 1 cup olive oil 2 Tbsp sweet paprika 1 Tbsp turmeric 1 pinch saffron threads 1 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp cinnamon 1 red onion, grated or finely chopped 1 cup finely chopped Italian parsley 1 cup finely chopped cilantro 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 whole preserved lemon, roughly chopped DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Place all the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl and combine.

3. Place chicken in a roasting pan and gently massage half the marinade on all sides of the chicken and under the skin. Set aside the rest of the marinade.

4. Place the olives in a bowl, then cover with boiling water and

let stand for 10 minutes. Rinse several times with warm water, then drain well.

5. Chop the olives coarsely and combine with the remaining marinade.

6. Spoon the olive mixture on top of and around the chicken.

7. Pour the wine and water around the sides of the roasting pan, making sure not to wash the marinade off the chicken.

8. Place the chicken in the oven for 45 minutes.

9. Cover with foil and continue to roast for another 45 minutes (add additional water if the liquids are drying up).

10. Turn temperature up to 400°F 11. Uncover and roast for 15 minutes until skin is golden brown.

12. Remove from the oven and spoon juices over the chicken. Serve over couscous or rice.

Note: Recipe can be made ahead and reheated and freezes very well.

Sharon Gomperts and Rachel Emquies Sheff have been friends since high school. The Sephardic Spice Girls project has grown from their collaboration on events for the Sephardic Educational Center in Jerusalem. Follow them on Instagram @sephardicspicegirls and on Facebook at Sephardic Spice SEC Food. www.sephardicspicegirls.com/ full-recipes.

THIS RECIPE WAS SUBMITTED BY THE NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION, SHARSHERET, THE JEWISH BREAST CANCER AND OVARIAN CANCER COMMUNITY. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE HAS BEEN IMPACTED BY BREAST CANCER OR OVARIAN CANCER OR HAS ELEVATED GENETIC RISK, CONTACT SHARSHERET FOR FREE SUPPORT AND RESOURCES. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SHARSHERET.ORG OR CALL (866) 474-2774.

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FEATURE STORY

LOCAL HERO RECOGNIZED WITH THE PRESIDENT'S EXCELLENCE AWARD ON YOM HA'ATZMAUT 2025

BY SHARON RAPOPORT

T

o this day, Mia isn’t sure why she was singled out to receive the prestigious President’s Excellence Award and participate in Israel’s National Parade during Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations.

Mia Roni Schaffer—a proud San Diego local and a combat soldier in the Israel Defense Forces Keren 411 Battalion of the Artillery Corps—humbly wonders what makes her stand out.

But to her family, friends, and commanders, the answer is clear.

“Mia’s conviction is unshakable,” says her mother, Shira.

“Everything she takes on, she gives 110%. That’s just who she is.” Mia is always the first to volunteer, the one who will wake after just a few hours of sleep to ensure her fellow soldiers are cared for and always goes the extra mile.

Mia’s remarkable journey began in Maryland, where she was born, before moving with her family to San Diego 15 years ago. Raised in a Zionist home, Mia grew up with a deep love for Israel, although as a teenager, that connection began to waver. “Being Jewish didn’t feel special anymore,” she reflects. At school, she endured antisemitic jokes and isolation, thinking at the time that it was simply part of life.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • MAY 2025

That changed when she visited Israel at age 18.

“I connected with the country, the people, and the spirit of Israel,” she says. “I realized how abnormal it was to live in an antisemitic environment. I remembered the love for Israel my parents had taught me, and I chose to stay.”

Choosing not just to live in Israel, but to serve in a combat role in the IDF, Mia embraced her identity and her commitment to the Jewish people. Mia’s time in the army is defined by tireless dedication.

Before attending the IDF’s elite Commanders’ Course, she studied during every spare moment. She trained relentlessly to build her stamina, transforming her running ability until she could complete an 8-kilometer run with ease. Her hard work paid off, earning her a coveted spot in the course.

Today, Mia embodies the strength and spirit of a new generation of Jewish leaders. Though she remains modest about her achievements, Mia’s story is an inspiration to our San Diego Jewish community and beyond—a reminder of the power of devotion, perseverance, and love for the Jewish people.

FEATURE STORY

ANSWERS TO TEST YOUR JEWISH IQTM 1. b. Five daughters – Tzeitel, Hodel, Chava, Shprintze, and Bielke.

2. b. Rats. Frogs were #2; lice were #3; locusts were #8.

LOCAL HERO MIA RONI SCHAFFER Born in Maryland and raised in San Diego, Mia Roni Schaffer made the extraordinary decision to leave home and enlist in the Israel Defense Forces, where she now serves as a combat soldier in the Keren 411 Battalion of the Artillery Corps.

This Yom Ha’atzmaut, Mia will proudly receive the President’s Award of Excellence and march in Israel’s National Parade. Her journey—from enduring antisemitism in school to standing tall as a leader among Israel’s finest—reflects an unbreakable commitment to Israel, the Jewish people, and the values her San Diego community holds dear.

We salute Mia for her courage, perseverance, and unwavering spirit!

3. a. Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch (1808-1888) articulated Modern Orthodoxy and founded the Torah-observant and non-Reformed Jewish community in Frankfurt, Germany. He aimed to show that it was possible to be “modern” within the context of traditional Judaism and that it was possible to be fully in the world while fully immersed in Torah.

4. c. Einstein said it. Which way do you think he lived his life?

5. d. David Ben Gurion, the first Prime Minister of the State of Israel.

6. b. King David was upbraided by the prophet Nathan for indirectly causing the death of Uriah the Hittite, a soldier of loyalty and integrity. Although King David repented and showed great remorse, he was punished by having his love child with Bathsheba die after suffering a lingering illness. David and Bathsheba later had a son, Solomon, who succeeded David on the throne.

7. a. The 30,000 Jews of the First Aliyah to Ottoman Palestine came primarily from the Pale of Settlement in western Russia, Galicia, and Romania. They were aiming to improve their economic security and to escape antisemitic persecution and widespread pogroms, including such incidents as the expulsion of Moscow’s Jews in 1890 and the Kiev pogrom in 1891.

8. a. A dybbuk is an evil spirit or a demon that seeks to inhabit and take possession of a person. The play, “The Dybbuk,” was turned into a ballet by Jerome Robbins, with music by Leonard Bernstein.

9. d. Abraham was 99 when he was commanded to be circumcised.

His son Isaac, born one year later, and all subsequent generations of Jews were circumcised on their eighth day, subject to certain health considerations, as commanded by the Torah (Gen. 17:12).

10. c. His New York Times obituary called Sendak “the most important children’s book artist of the 20th century.” Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are” was adapted to an opera and two films. _____________________________________ 0–2 Talmid/Talmida (Student) 3–5 Melamed/Melamedet (Teacher) 6–8 Talmid Chacham/Talmidat Chacham (Scholar) 9 – 10 Gaon/Gaona (Genius) _________________________________________ Your comments are welcome at Felber@Jewish-IQ.com ©2025 Felber, Starmark, Inc., all rights reserved.

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FEATURE STORY

JEWISH FEDERATION INVESTS IN WOMEN LEADERS LEADERSHIP BUILDING DURING THE PROGRAM'S FALL RETREAT

J

ewish Federation’s Investment in Developing Women Leaders This May, 17 women will complete a transformative journey as graduates of the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute’s fourth cohort — an initiative of Jewish Federation of San Diego that’s shaping the future of Jewish leadership, one woman at a time.

Rooted in the enduring values of kehillah (community), achrayut (responsibility), chesed (loving kindness), and tzmicha (growth), the Institute was established to honor the legacy of Pauline Foster, z’’l.

Pauline was a visionary who broke barriers in San Diego’s Jewish communal landscape, serving as the first woman to lead both Federation’s Board of Directors and what is now known as Women’s Philanthropy. She was a mentor, a pioneer, and a powerful voice for women’s leadership in Jewish life. That voice lives on through this Institute ­— and through the generosity of her daughters, Lisa Foster, Marcia Hazan, and Karen Silverman, who sustain the program in her memory.

Since its founding in 2019, the Institute has become the premier platform for emerging Jewish women leaders in San Diego. Designed to deepen Jewish knowledge, strengthen leadership capacity, and build enduring bonds between participants, the experience is both personal and communal. Through monthly learning sessions, meaningful mentorship, immersive retreats, and shared experiences, participants explore what it means to lead not just effectively — but Jewishly.

In February 2025, the current cohort traveled together to Mexico City, where they toured historic synagogues and community centers and engaged with local organizations, such as WomPower, a nonprofit advancing women in leadership. The group also visited the home of

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Frida Kahlo — drawing inspiration from her artistry and resilience as they reflected on their own leadership paths. The trip, like the program itself, blended rich Jewish identity with global perspective and purpose.

For participant Allison Wolpoff, the experience marked a profound shift. “I’ve been in leadership programs before, but nothing like this,” she reflected. “This was the first time I explored leadership through the lens of my Jewish identity, and it changed everything. I feel more confident, more connected, and more resolved in my role as a Jewish woman leader — especially in a time when our community needs us to step up.”

That sense of readiness is exactly what Federation envisioned when it created the Institute. With antisemitism on the rise, Israel facing critical challenges, and Jewish communities working to remain united and inclusive, there is a clear and urgent need for resilient leaders grounded in Jewish values. The Institute is answering that need — developing leaders who understand the moment and who are prepared to meet it with strength and heart.

Graduates go on to serve across the community: leading nonprofit boards, schools, congregations, and programs. They are not waiting for the future¾they are building it.

Pauline Foster believed in leading with generosity and intention.

“Sharing with other people is truly gratifying,” she once said. Through this program, that belief continues to shape and inspire new generations.t To learn more about the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute and Federation’s broader efforts to support Jewish leadership development in San Diego, visit jewishinsandiego.org​.

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FEATURE STORY

LAWFARE AGAINST TERROR THE RELENTLESS MISSION OF OR HIKRY

BY DEBRA DOCK TRESTMAN

A

t a recent evening gathering in Rancho Bernardo, the Howard and Lori Kaye Memorial Lecture Series welcomed an extraordinary speaker—Israeli attorney Or Hikry, whose life’s work sits at the powerful intersection of justice, courage, and survival. With quiet conviction, Hikry stood before a full house at Chabad of Rancho Bernardo, recounting his journey from the front lines of the Israel Defense Forces to the courtrooms where he now fights a different kind of war—one waged with legal briefs instead of bullets. This was no ordinary lecture. It was a raw, eyeopening account of how terror isn’t just fought on the battlefield—it’s also fought in court.

FROM SOLDIER TO LEGAL ADVOCATE

Like many young Israelis, Hikry entered military service at 18. He was assigned as a special assistant to a high-ranking general, an experience that exposed him to the high-stakes world of security and strategy. After four transformative years, he turned to law, seeking a new way to defend his people. A degree in law with an emphasis on human rights added a global perspective to his already resolute mission.

But it wasn’t until he met Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, founder of Shurat HaDin—Israel Law Center, that he found his calling. “I realized the courtroom could be just as powerful as the battlefield,” Hikry said.

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THE ECONOMICS OF TERROR: EXPOSING “PAY-FOR-SLAY”

At the core of Hikry’s work is one uncomfortable truth: terrorism often pays. Literally. In his lecture, Hikry detailed the Palestinian Authority’s “Pay-for-Slay” program—a controversial policy in which Palestinians who commit acts of terror receive monthly salaries from the PA, even while imprisoned. The larger the attack’s impact, the higher the payout.

“These payments range from $500 to $3,000 a month,” Hikry explained. “That’s more than most Palestinian families earn from honest work.” And it doesn’t stop there. The families of deceased terrorists, injured attackers, and even released prisoners are all eligible for PA stipends, regardless of their terror affiliation—Fatah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and others. The International Red Cross aids the terrorists in receiving these stipends by bringing them the necessary paperwork needed to file for these stipends.

Even more disturbing, much of the money flowing into these payments comes from international aid—funds from the U.S., EU, and other Western democracies with no idea how their money is being used. Hikry explained how this international aid and contributions to the PA while well intended perpetuate violence providing incentives to committing terrorism and causes a deepening of the cycle of hatred and violence.

FEATURE STORY

the U.S. Fair Housing Act, arguing discrimination. Airbnb settled, keeping the listings live. “These aren’t just legal cases,” said Hikry.

“They’re battles for combating the global effort by Israel’s enemies to delegitimize, boycott and wage “lawfare” against the Jewish State.”

“These aren’t just legal cases,” said On October 7, 2023, Israel endured one of the most horrific terror attacks in its history. Hikry was immediately called into reserve duty, Hikry. “They’re tasked with locating 3,000 missing Israelis—many dead, kidnapped, or hospitalized.

After the attack, Gazan Civilians stole the credit cards of the battles for combating victims on October 7. His unit worked tirelessly to notify credit card companies about the mass thefts prohibiting the perpetrators from using the credit cards. the global effort by He also coordinated the delivery of vital medications for hostages via the International Red Cross. Tragically the International Red Cross refused to deliver these medications. Outraged, Shurat HaDin Israel’s enemies to has since launched legal action against the Red Cross for their role in refusing to support the hostages taken on the October 7th terror delegitimize, boycott attack.

Terrorism has evolved and so has Hikry’s response. In recent years, and wage lawfare Palestinian militants have launched incendiary kites and balloons into Israeli farmland, destroying crops, and irrigation systems. In addition, these incendiary devices have exploded and cause fires near against the Jewish school, endangering the lives of children. Legal battles are underway to secure compensation for affected families.

In 2023, a troubling trend emerged: terrorists began targeting State.”

Israeli drivers with gunfire, firebombs, and roadside ambushes.

OCTOBER 7 AND THE NEW WAR AT HOME

A NEW GENERATION OF DEFENSE

TURNING THE TABLES IN COURT

Shurat HaDin, the nonprofit where Hikry serves as an attorney, uses a strategy known as “lawfare”—applying legal tools to strike back at terrorists and their sponsors. And their victories are impressive.

One of the most notable was the 1997 Ben Yehuda Street bombing in Jerusalem, in which American citizen Stuart Hersh was severely injured. Shurat HaDin filed a lawsuit againstIran, Hamas’ sponsor, and won a $423.5 million judgment. The team tracked down Iranian assets in the US, including a Texas property, which was sold to help compensate the victims.

Shurat HaDin has also taken on global corporations that attempt to discriminate against Israelis. When Ben & Jerry’s announced, it would stop selling ice cream in Judea and Samaria, Hikry’s team invoked U.S. trademark law and registered “Judea and Samaria’s Ben & Jerry’s” in Israel. The legal maneuver worked—the boycott was reversed.

In another case, Airbnb faced legal backlash for delisting Jewishowned properties in the West Bank. The law center sued under

Shurat HaDin responded by launching the Operational Driving Course (ODC)—a free survival training program for Israeli civilians.

Led by Hikry himself, it teaches emergency driving tactics, first aid, and live-fire simulations. “This is about giving people the tools to survive,” Hikry said. “Because terror doesn’t wait.”

A VOICE OF JUSTICE IN A NOISY WORLD

Through his tireless efforts, Mr. Or Hikry has become more than just a lawyer—he’s a warrior in the courtroom, a voice for victims, and a reminder that justice can still be pursued even in the face of unimaginable violence.

His message at Chabad of Rancho Bernardo was clear: We can fight terror in the court room by stopping the funds that allow it to continue.

To learn more about Shurat HaDin or support their mission, visit www. shurat-hadin.org. To support more speakers for the Howard and Lori Kaye Memorial Lecture Series, visit www.chabadrb.org.

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FEATURE STORY

FINDING FAMILY IN THE MIDST OF WAR

BY ZALMY FELDMAN 24

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Jewish baby, rescued at just three days old at the start of the Russian war in Ukraine and brought to the Mishpacha Jewish orphanage in Odessa, celebrated his third birthday this week with a traditional upsherin (first haircut ceremony).

Surrounded by his many “brothers” from the orphanage, little Tuvia was showered with candy, and his hair was cut according to Jewish tradition.

When the war in Ukraine erupted three years ago, news spread of a newborn Jewish baby, just three days old, who was miraculously rescued and taken into the care of Odessa’s Jewish orphanage. At just eight days old, as the sounds of bombings echoed in the city, he underwent his bris milah and was given the name Tuvia, after Rabbi Tuvia Peles, a prominent Chabad chossid from Kfar Chabad, Israel.

Odessa’s Chief Rabbi and Chabad Shliach, Rabbi Avraham Wolff, director of the orphanage, recalled: “From the moment he arrived, Tuvia became everyone’s child. We are his family.”

Despite his tender age, Tuvia endured many upheavals during the war, as he and more than 100 children from the orphanage were repeatedly evacuated for safety. Their journey took them to Germany, then various locations within Ukraine, before finally returning to Odesa more than a year later.

Tuvia’s story spread across international media and touched many in Israel. “His story moved thousands of Israelis,” said Rabbi Wolff.

Just three days after giving birth, Tuvia’s mother arrived at the orphanage and asked to leave him there. “I asked if she wanted to stay longer or at least say a proper goodbye, but she said no,” recalled one of the caretakers. “She turned around and walked away without leaving any details. He was left without a family, so we became his family.”

Rabbi Wolff and his wife, Mrs. Chaya Wolff, decided to raise the infant as their own, ensuring he grew up surrounded by love and a strong Jewish identity.

As Ukraine marked three years since the war began, Tuvia reached a milestone of his own—his third birthday and traditional upsherin.

The orphanage children, whom he considers his siblings, joyously celebrated with him. They threw candy, sang Jewish songs, and took turns cutting his hair, in keeping with the sacred Jewish custom.

“Seeing Tuvia grow, learn, and thrive is our greatest joy,” said Rabbi Wolff. Igor Shadchin, head of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Southern Ukraine, added: “Tuvia has touched all our hearts. He symbolizes hope and resilience. After three turbulent years, we all pray for peace and stability.

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FEATURE STORY

PROTECT YOUR PET SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY CELBRATES MICROCHIP YOUR PET MONTH

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osing a beloved pet is a terrifying thought for any owner—but thankfully, there’s a simple solution that greatly increases the odds of a happy reunion: microchipping. These tiny devices, no larger than a grain of rice, hold vital information that can help bring lost pets back home. May is Microchip Your Pet Month, and San Diego Humane Society is here to help you keep your pet safe.

Microchipping is a quick and painless procedure in which a tiny chip containing a unique identification number is placed under the skin of your pet. The chip can be registered with a national database and owners can attach their contact information. Then, using a scanner, animal shelters and veterinarians can quickly and easily identify lost pets and reunite them with their owners.

In addition to microchipping, San Diego Humane Society recommends having supplemental forms of identification. A wellfitting collar with an ID tag is essential, even for pets who remain primarily indoors or in fenced yards. Dog licenses, which are also required by California law, offer a third layer of protection and peace of mind.

Safety measures like these help reunite lost pets with their families every day. Just one example is Reddington, who was wandering the 26

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streets when a community member found him and brought him to San Diego Humane Society. Luckily, Reddington was wearing a collar fitted with an ID tag and an engraved phone number to get in touch with his owner. He also had a microchip and a license, which helped the shelter quickly reunite him with his family.

Taking these simple steps can save you time and money spent on searching for a lost pet or paying reclaim fees. They can also help protect your pet from theft, giving you recourse to reclaim them if they are found in someone else’s possession. With any of these methods, it’s important to ensure your contact information is always up to date.

Microchip Your Pet Month is the perfect time to bring your beloved furry companions to San Diego Humane Society and give them the protection they deserve. Microchipping appointments are available for just $25 along with frequent community microchipping events. They also provide licensing services for dog owners in their jurisdiction. The processes are quick and easy—and can save your pet’s life.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SDHUMANE.ORG/PROTECT.

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NEWS

Einat Wilf and Liat Reeis.

TO KNOW

NOW WHAT THEY'RE TALKING ABOUT

wracking, and thoroughly entertaining evening. Most importantly, as the Pastor noted, “the protestors made us realize that we need to link arms even more tightly than ever. They strengthened our alliance.”

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL TO OPEN IN MURRIETA

SAN DIEGO JEWISH INDEPENDENCE DAY

ACADEMY

CELEBRATES

ISRAEL

Every student from Kindergarten to 11th grade (12th graders are in Israel) gathered at San Diego Jewish Academy’s athletic field on May 1 to kick-off the school wide Independence Day celebration. The morning ceremony included singing, a parade, and remarks from school leaders to start the all-day activities. Especially endearing was the lighting of the 12 torches on the theme of community.

“At SDJA, Yom Ha’atzmaut is more than a celebration—it’s a living expression of our deep connection to Israel, our shared history, and our hopes for the future. The joy, pride, and unity our students bring to this day is truly inspiring,” said Shani Abed, Head of Lower School at SDJA. Throughout the day each class had special activities, including a drum circle, art, dancing, pita making and more. However, the highlight of the celebration was the gorgeous flag ceremony, including the students forming a giant yellow ribbon for the hostages.

EINAT WILF SPEAKS TO CHRISTIAN-JEWISH ALLIANCE

Constant interruptions punctuated Einat Wilf’s presentation “Exploring Israel’s Statehood, and the Palestinian Refugee Issue.”

The event, organized by the Christian-Jewish Alliance, in partnership with StandWithUs, united 650 Jews and Christians. A handful of protesters infiltrated the audience and took turns disrupting with provocative shouts; Security threw them out. Einat took it all in stride and quipped, “at least they have to listen to me for some minutes before another one jumps up.” Wilf’s clarity and expertise earned her a standing ovation. Overall, it was a very educational, somewhat nerve28

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Out of Despair - Hope. The Holocaust Remembrance Foundation of the Valley (HRFV) is breaking ground at Town Square Park in Murrieta, constructing a Holocaust Educational Memorial that will offer hope to a generation that frequently shows their ignorance regarding the evils of the Holocaust and antisemitism.

The Holocaust Educational Memorial will chronicle in detail on large panels the events that led to the Holocaust, the dark side of the Holocaust, including antisemitism, Hitler’s Final Solution, Jewish resistance, and will end with Israel becoming a reborn nation, along with a message of hope. Knowing the historic truth about the Holocaust will shine a light on truth that allows our society to come out of despair and embrace Hope that together we can overcome bigotry and racial injustice which leads to traumatic events such as the Holocaust.

Surveys have proven that the current generation has a lack of knowledge concerning the Holocaust, is unable to identify one concentration camp, or even know the number of Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust. If the statement, “The youth are our future.” is accurate, it is imperative that we develop educational materials and Memorials to educate our younger generations and those who are uninformed. Education is essential to allow Hope to be embraced in a world filled with conflicting emotions. To support HRFV, visit HRFV.org.

HUMOR | BY STEPHANIE D. GITTLEMAN

mazel

& mishagoss LAZAR WOLF'S BIGGEST REGRET? NOT BUYING STOCK IN TOFU!

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oming this month to North Coast Rep¾a show called, “Tevye in New York!” Now if Tevye can journey to Solana Beach to perform, then is Lazar Wolf also welcome to move to North County? Yes! That is if I (a successful playwright now!) have anything to say about it. Here’s how MY stage production would unfold …

LIGHTS UP: SCENE 1

One minute Lazar is a wealthy meat-loving butcher in Fiddler on the Roof, getting the short end of the (beef!) stick regarding marrying Tevye’s eldest daughter, all because of a made-up meshuganah dream. The next minute he mysteriously wakes up in La Jolla, surrounded by oat milk cafes, plant-based “butcher” shops, and people crashing into each other because they’re too busy texting organic vegan Tofurky recipe links that will help them detox.

Extremely lonely, and realizing nobody wants a traditional butcher anymore (although he toys with rebranding himself “The Brisket Whisperer” or “Grandpa Gristle” and planning a “Meat and Greet” to heal the patriarchy with Bone Broth!) plus feeling slighted by Motel the tailor stealing his young bride, Lazar sings, “If I were a Stitch

Man!” thinking he’ll open an alterations shop on El Camino Real, perhaps attracting another Tzeitel, easily impressed by sewing machines. Yes, Lazar Wolf is having a true midlife identity crisis! Nu? Where’s Yenta?

She’s changed her name to Tinder and camouflages her sage but unsolicited advice behind ChatGPT. Right? Of course, right!

As Lazar Wolf shouts to the audience, “There’s no such thing as gluten-free cholent!” a booming voiceover is heard: “He was just a simple butcher from Anatevka … until San Diego 2025 happens!”

Blackout.

LIGHTS UP: SCENE 2

Lazar Wolf exclaims, “I miss the shtetl, but here I have DoorDash, central air and a jacuzzi! On the other hand … No! There IS no other hand” (That’s right, in my new show, Lazar steals Tevye’s lines while making a radical career change!)

Stage Left: A poster proclaiming, “If I can tenderize a steak, I can soften your emotional trauma!” Yes, Lazar Wolf is now a Life Coach, labeling himself “The Wolf of Soul & Shmaltz” and offering workshops titled, “Healing Thru Herring!” and “Navigating Gefilte & Grief!” and “Sauerkraut & Sad-

ness!” A lively Klezmer band marches out to play, “Therapy & Tzimmes!” as Lazar closes his eyes and drifts off, but a bad dream interrupts his slumber, showcasing Fruma Sarah taking him by the throat and screaming, “So you finally made something of yourself, my old goat!?” When chickens waddle downstage, the audience suddenly realizes the plot twist in Act 1… Lazar is a Life Coach, yes.

But to animals…not people! It’s his way of giving back after decades of slaughtering. Lazar whispers to the pitiful poultry, “Welcome back my little Fricassees. Are you still feeling anxious around coops? It’s okay … deep breaths.

And remember: You are more than just penicillin soup potential!” Entering from stage right is a cow. Lazar shouts, “Frieda!

You’ve returned to me! Your New Age, Moo Age Cow-nselor. Let’s start this session off with some udderly relaxing guided milkitation!” Okay, okay so my show needs some work. Meanwhile, catch “Tevye In New York!” May 19-20 at North Coast Rep! STEPHANIE D. GITTLEMAN WILL INJECT HUMOR INTO ANYTHING YOU HIRE HER TO WRITE. EMAIL HER AT THEQUOTEGAL@YAHOO.COM. WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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