San Diego Jewish Journal Sept. 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 l ELUL 5774•TISHREI 5775

SAN DIEGO’S LONE SOLDIERS

Current and past soldiers explain why they felt called to serve Israel

HIGH HOLIDAYS

Our annual list of services and more sweet stories for the new year

SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP

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CONTENTS

September 2014 Elul 5774/Tishrei 5775

63

COVER STORY: Two IDF soldiers from San Diego talk about their experiences in two different operations in Gaza.

40

HIGH HOLIDAYS: Everything you need to know about Holiday services from every corner of the county.

32

SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP: Tifereth Israel does away with dues, and others work to create new programs to encourage long-term commitment.

70 4 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

FEATURE: The Camp Mountain Chai Women’s Retreat offers respite and community-building for busy modern women.

Income Generation in Retirement Our conversation on retirement income can help you move from “Can I retire?” to “How can I make the most of my retirement?”

78 IN THIS ISSUE: 51 HIGH HOLIDAYS:

Two organizations offer very different ways to observe this Holiday season

52 HIGH HOLIDAYS:

What to wear to services

57 HIGH HOLIDAYS:

Curt Leviant translates a Sholem Aleichem story “Told on a Train”

74 FEATURE:

Senator Marty Block talks about the new Jewish Caucus

81 OP-ED:

Boycott, divest, sanction: Should we be worried?

83 BUSINESS:

International Bath and Tile

Good Eats 78 Food

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Around Town 10 Mailbag 12 Our Town 14 Event Recap 86 What’s Goin’ On 96 Calendar In Every Issue 8 The Starting Line 18 Parenting 20 Israeli Lifestyle 22 Dating 24 Guest 26 Spirituality 28 Israel 91 News 95 Diversions 101 Desert Life

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www.sdjewishjournal.com September 2014 • Elul 5574/Tishrei 5775 PUBLISHER • Dr. Mark S. Moss CO-PUBLISHER • Mark Edelstein EDITOR-IN-CHIEF • Natalie Jacobs CREATIVE DIRECTOR • Peter Talhamé ASSISTANT EDITOR • Tinamarie Bernard ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR • Eileen Sondak ADVERTISING DIRECTOR • Mark Edelstein CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tori Avey, Betsy Baranov, Linda Bennett, Abby Walker, Leah Singer, David Ebenbach, Judith Fein (Senior Travel Correspondent), Michael Fox, Jennifer Garstang, Amanda Kelly, Brie Stimson, Miki Lamm, Pat Launer, Curt Leviant, David Ogul, Pamela Price, Sharon Rosen Leib, Nikki Salvo, Andrea Simantov CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS/ARTISTS Vincent Andrunas, Ediz Benaroya, Leigh Castelli, Leetal Elmaleh, Pepe Fainberg, Steve Greenberg, Pat Krause, Paul Ross (Senior Travel Photographer), Angela Sissa, Daisy Varley, Nicholas Patton ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Ronnie Weisberg (Account Executive), Alan Moss (Palm Springs) SAN DIEGO JEWISH JOURNAL (858) 638-9818 • fax: (858) 638-9801 5665 Oberlin Drive, Suite 204 • San Diego, CA 92121

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EDITORIAL: editor@sdjewishjournal.com ADVERTISING: sales@sdjewishjournal.com CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS: publisher@sdjewishjournal.com ART DEPARTMENT: art@sdjewishjournal.com LISTINGS & CALENDAR: calendar@sdjewishjournal.com SDJJ is published monthly by San Diego Jewish Journal, LLC. Subscription rate is $24 for one year (12 issues). Send subscription requests to SDJJ, 5665 Oberlin Drive, Suite 204, San Diego, CA 92121. The San Diego Jewish Journal is a free and open forum for the expression of opinions. The opinions expressed herein are solely the opinion of the author and in no way reflect the opinions of the publishers, staff or advertisers. The San Diego Jewish Journal is not responsible for the accuracy of any and all information within advertisements. The San Diego Jewish Journal reserves the right to edit all submitted materials, including press releases, letters to the editor, articles and calendar listings for brevity and clarity. The Journal is not legally responsible for the accuracy of calendar or directory listings, nor is it responsible for possible postponements, cancellations or changes in venue. Manuscripts, letters, documents and photographs sent to the Journal become the physical property of the publication, which is not responsible for the return or loss of such material. All contents ©2014 by San Diego Jewish Journal. The San Diego Jewish Journal is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

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SanDiegoJewishJournal

SHANA TOVA! . . . u o y g Wishin

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THE STARTING LINE

by Natalie Jacobs Editor of the San Diego Jewish Journal editor@sdjewishjournal.com

Different Roads to the Same Place

H

opefully you remember the survey we invited you to take last month. There were two theater tickets and $100 to Nosh on the line. Ring a bell? Ok, well, it happened and the responses have been great to read. Two things stand out: there is a strong desire for more coverage of local news and events, and there’s a loud call for information that appeals to the 40 and younger crowd. There’s also interest in more political stories.

All of these are things we’ve been discussing around the office for the past few months. We sit in our staff meetings and we look at each other (all five of us) and we think: We’re young. We’re running around San Diego every night and weekend. We follow politics. Let’s bring that perspective to the magazine! Then the ideas start flowing from there.

So I can assure you, we’re on it.

It’s such a wonderful thing to be able to walk through the world, see something interesting, ask “What’s Jewish about that?” and then tell you about it. I’ll be honest, at first I was a bit surprised at how wide a net I can cast in the hunt for Jewish stories. Fashion? We’re trying it out this month.

Entertainment? We’ve been scratching that surface for a while now. Local government? Yeah, there’s some of that in this issue too.

The comments in our survey reminded me of conversations myself and our writers have had with various Jewish groups who are also working to mix things up. Whether it’s a synagogue looking to appeal to young people or a nonprofit working to welcome interfaith families, we’ve all heard from the community at large that there’s a need to appeal

8 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

It’s such a wonderful thing to be able to walk through the world, see something interesting, ask “What’s Jewish about that?” and then tell you about it. to people in new and surprising ways. Grab our precious attention and hold it, somehow, they say.

We’re all struggling to stay relevant to everyone else’s busy and crowded lives. As the world changes, how can we change with it? We’re all asking the same questions and we’re all looking to achieve the same results – a stronger community with deeper connections to the things that matter.

What has always struck me about Judaism is the willingness of Jewish people to accept individuals and ideas from all across the spectrum. However Jews observe, creating and maintaining a thriving community is always goal number one.

While Holiday services will be long and require lots of hard, inward thinking, the best part about this time of year is the opportunity to reinvigorate that community we’re trying so hard to uphold. As you embrace people you haven’t seen in a year and spend quality time with your family, remember to smile toward the future because together we can help it get brighter every day.

May you have an easy fast and a truly wonderful new year. A

Happy New Year!

Check pages 40-48 for our comprehensive listing of High Holiday services.

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>> mailbag

We’re Listening!

Let us know what you’re thinking.

PEACE Dear Editor: Thank you for your column in the San Diego Jewish Journal [“Back to the Past,” Aug. 2014] and the discussion of peace and compromise.

In these very difficult and frightening times, I really appreciate your efforts to focus on possible solutions to the current situation which is neither sustainable nor desirable for Israelis or Palestinians.

If we give up hope for a political solution that allows us to protect Israel from rocket barrages and incursions, we condemn ourselves to unending brutality which puts civilians in harm’s way on both sides of the border and elsewhere as the conflict spreads.

Diana Kutlow San Diego

WISHFUL THINKING Dear Editor: The self-congratulatory wishful thinking of the lobotomized Jewish left is sometimes enough to drive a rational person nuts. Here are three examples from the San Diego Jewish Journal of Aug. 2014: In your otherwise sweet article reminding us of the relative safety in which we San Diego Jews live, as compared with our relatives on the front lines in Israel [“Back to the

FOLLOW US

Past”], you found it reasonable to quote the moronic opinions of Etgar Keret. Let’s leave aside his statement that no solution can be found in our prayers to G-d. No human being can know less than the maker of such a statement about how, when, or why G-d may answer human prayers. But surely his assertion that we should substitute the word “compromise” for the word “peace” and engage in “dialogue with the other side” defines irrational folly – as if the possibility of dialogue with the barbaric terrorists of Hamas could be anything but a pipe dream.

On the same page, you recommend that we keep up with the news by checking a “variety” of sources. Good advice, except that at least three of your four ideas of “variety” are left-aligned organs likelier to be accusing Israelis of racism than to be acknowledging the barbarism of Hamas. Why no mention of Arutz Sheva, The Jerusalem Post, Israel HaYom, or The Algemeiner?

The puff piece about the Super PAC “getting ready” to support Hillary Clinton as candidate for President mentions no specific reason why anyone, Jew or gentile, should support Hillary Clinton.

The only arguments made in the article are ad hominem (if you are a Hillary detractor you must be a “hardcore partisan Republican” or a “longtime Obama and Clinton basher”) and ad populum (perhaps when undecided Jews see “so many people like them are supporting her, it will persuade them along”). Not a word about Hillary’s lies about Benghazi, about her shady financial deals, about her insufferably strident hypocrisy on Israel accompanying her support of the most anti-Israel U.S. President in generations.

Gideon Rappaport Clairemont

IN RESPONSE “HILLARY”

TO

Dear Editor: Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me; fool me a third time, shame on liberal Jews who trust Hillary Clinton.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton explained that Hamas hides their military weapons among civilians due mainly to geography, not religious extremism or hatred of the state of Israel. In an interview with Fusion TV, Clinton said “Hamas puts its missiles, its rockets in civilian areas; part of it is because Gaza is pretty small and it’s densely populated.” At no time does Clinton mention the official charter of Hamas, a terrorist organization, which denies the right of Israel to exist and asks all Muslims to help “obliterate” it: “Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it.”

But, it seems Sec. Clinton believes geographical limitations trump deeply-held religious hatred, in terms of motivations for terrorism.

Felicia Gipsman Poway

CORRECTIONS In the Our Town column in our Aug. issue, people were misidentified in the photo captions. See pg. 12 for corrected captions and new photos from the event. Also in the Aug. issue, a photo caption in the Salvador Dalí story incorrectly noted that the show is in La Jolla. Meyer Fine Art is located in Little Italy.

The SDJJ regrets these errors.

Send us your comments: /SanDiegoJewishJournal 10 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

@SDJewishJournal

editor@sdjewishjournal.com • 5665 Oberlin Dr., Ste 204 • San Diego, CA 92121

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SUNDAY 09/07 Orange County Journal 1433_RAOCJ

our

TOWN

BY LINDA BENNETT & BETSY BARANOV l BETSY1945@COX.NET PHOTOS COURTESY SEACREST VILLAGE AND BY NICHOLAS PATTON

Seacrest Village Retirement Communities Host Annual 211 Club Patron Recognition Party

Seacrest Village Retirement Communities hosted its annual 211 Club Patron Recognition Party on Sunday, July 13 at the gorgeous Rancho Santa Fe home “Rancho Encantado” (Enchanted Ranch) of Lee and Frank Goldberg. Over 130 dedicated contributors gathered to celebrate their commitment to the charitable mission of Seacrest Village.

Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a spectacular view of the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club from Lee and Frank’s home. Once Patrons were seated for dinner, they were welcomed by hosts Lee and Frank, who reminded us that “it is our responsibility to care for those who came before us and now have nowhere else to turn.” Pam Ferris, President/ CEO and Robert Haimsohn, Chair of Seacrest Village Retirement Communities’ Board of Trustees also thanked everyone in attendance as well as those who could not attend this year’s celebration. Supporters such as Sandy and Earl Altshuler, Linda and Michael Bennett, Barbara Bloom, Jessica and Devin Chodorow, Stephen Cohen and Adele Rabin, Toby and Howard Cohen, Melvin Cohn, Pearl Cutler and Raymond Mason, Norma and Werner Dreifuss, Inge Feinswog, Suzi and Bernie Feldman, Alberta Feurzeig and Harold Laz, Esther Fischer, Carol and Ron Fox, Edward Goldberg, Merrill and Robert Haimsohn, Dr. Jay Kovtun, Martha and Jerry Krasne, Renee Levine, Zita and Morris Liebermensch, Anne Nagorner, Joyce and Jere Oren, Linda and Wayne Otchis, Shirley and Harold Pidgeon, Teddie Lewis Pincus, Jeannie and Arthur Rivkin, William Snyder and Loretta Adams, Susie and Bernie Sosna, Alison and Michael Taylor, Judy and Jack White, Barbara and Morris Winicki, Bebe and Marvin Zigman, Helene and Allan Ziman and many more enjoyed a gourmet dinner catered by Chef Jeffrey Strauss, owner and executive chef of the acclaimed Pamplemousse Grille in Solana Beach.

Robin Israel, Vice President of Philanthropy, closed the evening by making the comparison of The 211 Club to a beautiful Chavurah. She spoke of their collective friendships and goodness and reminded them that many in attendance have been at each party for the past 15 years. Israel offered congratulations on their generosity which provided a very successful year but also on the friendships that have been born out of this Club. She remarked that during these past many weeks, as our Jewish community has faced the losses of some very special people, she too was comforted by those in The 211 Club who met by being a part of this special Chavurah. Following dinner, guests indulged in a decadent dessert buffet that included chocolate bread pudding and many other delicious treats.

About The 211 Club Members of The 211 Club – an arm of the Milton D. and Madeline L. Goldberg Resident Assistance Fund – are a prestigious group of community leaders who are the cornerstone of a tremendous fundraising effort. Their individual contributions of $1,000 or more annually help to ensure the greatest possible quality of life for the residents of Seacrest Village Retirement Communities. This annual appreciation dinner recognizes patrons for the care and services that are made possible through their generosity. As a non-profit, charitable organization, Seacrest Village Retirement Communities provides housing and healthcare services for the community’s elderly.

Offering these services regardless of one’s ability to pay creates an annual shortfall of more than $1.7 million that must be met through fundraising. A 12 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Top: Lee and Frank Goldberg. Middle: Anne Nagorner, and Allan and Helene Ziman Bottom: Esther Fischer, Ron Israel and Suzi Feldman.

Top row, L-R: Dahlia and Ed Cohen, and Joyce and Dave Abrams • Rabbi Patti Haskell and Earl Altshuler • Howard Bolotin and Sheri Hallis.

Bottom row, L-R: Howard and Toby Cohen • Harold and Shirley Pidgeon • Wayne and Linda Otchis.

Rally for Israel

Sunday, July 20 was a very busy day! First, the JCC Membership Appreciation Day event, then a quickly assembled Hillel gathering, and a Rally for Israel!

Some seen that day were Paul Swillerts, Yiftach and Jennifer Tayback Levy with kids Hadarya, 7, Yonaton, 5, and Shira, 3, Martin Bunzl, Rabbi Avi Libman, Michael Rabkin, Keri Copans, Aaron Bercovitch, Steven Larky, Ruth Kaplan, Congresswoman Susan Davis, Police Chief Shelley Zimmerman, Congressman Duncan Hunter, Andrew and Erna Vitirbi, Leslie Simon, Jerry Pollock, Ilana Kempinski, Audrey Jacobs, Jerry and Lynn Sampson, Judy Rosenthal, Rachel de Quesada and Mark Greenberg, Marilyn Braun, Toby Hartman, and Jessica Koren with daughters Gabi, 17, Talia, 15, and Cailey, 12.

Top: Suzanne and Paul Aston. Bottom row, L-R: Daniel and Nora Silverstein, and Enrique and Vivian Pupko with daughter • Ann Puckett.

Our Town also recently attended the Gotthelf Art Gallery Kick Off event on Aug. 3 at the beautiful home of Hanna and Mark Gleiberman. We had food, drinks, and a tour of their art collection. Among those enjoying were Rolf Hass and Carol Costarakis, Gary and Jerri-Ann Jacobs, Center For Jewish Culture Board President Seth Krosner, Gerry Levine, Danielle and Brian Miller, Charles and Ilene Mittman, Sandra and Robert Neborsky, Fran and Robert Preisman, Evey and Larry Solomon, Lee Schwimmer, Ruth Warburg, Diane and Elliot Fuerstein, Judy Feinberg, Dawn Gilman, Alan Cohen, and more. Look for information about more Gotthelf Gallery events this year. A

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 13

be SEEN

BY MIKI LAMM l MIKISDJJ@GMAIL.COM PHOTOS BY EDIZ BENAROYA

Generation Found

On July 27, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee held the first-ever San Diego Global Symposium titled “A Generation Lost: Young Jewish Leaders from Around the World Beg to Differ” at the North County Jewish Hub. The goal was to begin a dialogue among the young and the old, the religious and the secular, as well as the local and global communities.

JDC’s Director of Development and International Partnerships, Gideon Herscher, began with an up-to-the-minute briefing about the evolving situation in Israel and JDC’s response. Following this, an international panel of young professionals, including San Diego’s very own Gabi Scher and Martin Storrow, shared their experiences related to changing Jewish realities. Panelists discussed a variety of topics including volunteerism, community building, culture, and global connections, as well as how they as individuals are taking it to the next level in their respective communities.

To learn more about JDC, upcoming events, and ways in which you can become involved, contact Alison Laichter at Alison.Laichter@jdcny.org or visit jdc.org.

Top: Martin Storrow and Rachel Grant. Clockwise from middle: Joe Murphy and Caitlynn Rodarte • Matthew Cooney and Jonathan Goldstone • Alexandra Glassman, Azin Azma, Marni Unger, Seth Rau and Robyn Statman • Laura Galinson and Hannah Fantel-Galinson.

14 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

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the SCENE

BY NATALIE JACOBS l EDITOR@SDJEWISHJOURNAL.COM PHOTOS COURTESY THE OLD GLOBE

The Old Globe Gala

This year’s Old Globe Gala took place on July 26 with a guest list dressed to the nines. The theme “Summer Splendor” encouraged the more than 380 attendees to sparkle while they supported the theatre’s education and artistic programs. The evening featured a one-night-only performance by Broadway veteran and Tony Award-winner Laura Benanti (who was in Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” which wrapped on Aug. 17). The program was based on her smash hit cabaret, “In Constant Search of the Right Kind of Attention.”

The black-tie event began with a reception in the Globe’s Copley Plaza.

Guests were surprised and delighted by a flash mob performance by Culture Shock Dance Troupe, a hip-hop company based here. After the guests posed for pictures and chatted in the courtyard, they filed into the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage for Benanti’s exclusive performance. From the show, dinner was served back on the Plaza. It was a beautiful spread catered

by Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina, led by their new Executive Chef Terry Guise. The crowd danced to the music of the 13-piece band Midnight Special after the plates were cleared, and a good time was had by all. It was another beautiful night full of friends and supporters of the Globe.

While the organization is still tallying the funds, they estimate that more than $1 million were raised from the all-star evening.

Nina Doede, Deni Jacobs and Sheryl White served as Gala co-chairs.

Leading underwriters were Audrey Geisel, Darlene Marcos Shiley, Conrad Prebys and Debra Turner, and Sheryl and Harvey White.

Top: Andrew and Erna Viterbi. Clockwise from middle: Robert and Nina Doede, Deni Jacobs, Debra Davis, and Sheryl and Harvey White • Conrad Prebys and Debra Turner, Barry and Hilit Edelstein, Darlene Marcos Shiley, and Michael G. Murphy • Iris Strauss and Irwin and Joan Jacobs.

16 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

‫לשנה טובה‬

May You and Your Loved Ones Be Inscribed for a Year Filled with Blessings Celebrate the High Holy Days with caring clergy in a friendly, vibrant community.

For more information about Temple Etz Rimon and reserving space in our sanctuary to worship during these High Holy Days, please call (760)929-9503 or email us at info@templeetzrimon.org.

Temple Etz Rimon A Reform Synagogue in the Heart of Coastal North County

URJ

2020 Chestnut Avenue • Carlsbad • 92008 760.929.9503 • templeetzrimon.org Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 17

parenting

MUSINGS FROM MAMA

by Sharon Rosen Leib srleib@roadrunner.com

Deconstructing a Life

W

ith the High Holidays approaching, the annual blessing “May you be inscribed in the book of life” resonates with a different kind of meaning for me this year. As successor trustee of my great-uncle Paul’s estate, I’ve been charged with going through his papers and divining his intent regarding his financial and moral legacy.

He left a tangled web in the wake of his 92 years. How would he have wanted us to read his book of life? His story reveals the tumult of nine decades spent in the crucible of the Hollywood film colony. I find myself turning to Jacques Derrida’s trendy philosophy of deconstructionism for guidance in analyzing a life rife with contradictions.

The son of a powerful Hollywood film producer, great-uncle Paul was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and reels of silver nitrate film in his home. I found a picture of him as a 14-year-old wearing a tuxedo at an Academy Awards banquet and another of him at age 12 dressed in pseudo-military regalia at the Black-Foxe Military Institute. This elite school, located in Hollywood and co-founded by an actor, combined show biz pageantry with training in weaponry. Yet, my earthy uncle eschewed highsociety and never served in the military.

When Paul started working on film locations in his early 20s, he adopted a hard-partying lifestyle.

He married too young. The marriage, to a lovely starlet named Shirley, ended after two years because “I spent too much time in Vegas and didn’t make much of a husband” he told me once. He vowed never to marry again. Then he dated a widow named Beverly who had a young son and wanted to marry him, so he broke it off. Next came Barbara who moved in with Paul and helped him get off 18 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

the bottle. When Barbara developed full-blown schizophrenia, Paul took care of her and they became more roommates than lovers. While caring for Barbara, he started dating divorcée Dani, the love of his life. This relationship lasted 30 years.

Going through Paul’s papers, I noticed he mentioned all of these women in every version of his trust. His gifts to them lapsed only when they died, or in Dani’s case, when she dumped him and remarried. Nonetheless, he remained close to Dani and visited her often when she became ill and bedridden in her 70s. Sadly, Paul outlived all of his leading ladies. His enduring loyalty to them speaks volumes. He didn’t discard women, or anyone else for that matter.

He grew up a lonely “poor little rich boy,” isolated and often left behind in a Bel-Air mansion while his father worked long studio-executive hours and his mother traveled the world. As a result, he never felt too comfortable being part of a family.

Stingy with family affection, he almost never told us he loved us. He could be mean. Yet if we needed him, he was there for us. He called often to check in – demonstrating gruff love. Ultimately, he took care of us. At the end of the day, Paul left us with a treasure trove of stories – his most meaningful legacy. As we contemplate the book of life’s meaning this month, I consider my great-uncle a fascinating lesson. How we choose to interpret the challenging, complicated people in our lives brings us either peace or torment. After thinking about it a lot lately, I’m all for practicing positive deconstruction to attain peace of mind. Yes, Paul was complicated and unconventional and tough. His redemption lies in a lifetime of dedication to those he loved. Thus shall I remember him while reciting Yizkor this year. A

Did you know?

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Wednesday, September 24th -­‐ Friday September 26th

Please join us for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Service at United Jewish Community of Carmel Valley Rosh Hashanah Services will be held at the San Diego Jewish Academy 11860 Carmel Creek Rd, San Diego, CA 92130

Yom Kippur Services will be held at the San Diego MarrioI Del Mar 11966 Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130

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Friday, October 3rd -­‐ Saturday, Oct 4th Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 19

israeli lifestyle

LIVING ON THE FRONT PAGE

by Andrea Simantov

andreasimantov@gmail.com

The Show Goes On

O

ne day we were picnicking in the park and the day after, cowering in a bomb shelter. It happened so fast, as does everything in Israel. The sounds of red alerts pierced the summer silence intermittently and we Jerusalemites suddenly became part of the am – the real Israelis from the south and the north and the center who have been dodging Hamas missiles for years. It shames me now to think that I’d felt a sort of exemption, like a member of a higher caste who was protected by virtue of living in the Holy City.

None of us were spared from this most recent attempt to impose a final-solution upon the Jews of Israel. Naïve as we tend to be in this neck of the Middle East, we were completely blindsided

20 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

by the broad-brushed criticism from every corner of the world as an avowed and ruthless enemy swore aloud to rid us from the land by either “driving [us] to the sea” or reducing us to ash (preferred).

Are any of us unaware that Palestinian children died? Do we not see, hear and feel for the children who are placed in the line of fire in order that they be maimed or killed? The clever enemy has studied and come to understand Jewish compassion, subsequently daring us to save ourselves at the expense of public opinion and world condemnation. Still, we shout! We explain! We protest! We plead! Certainly moral men, logical men will come to our aid and tell the aggressor to back off and build their communities

with the billions-upon-billions of dollars that the West pushed on them, count their blessings and join with us in the pursuit of common, lifeaffirming ends. But few of these aforementioned men exist. Instead, we are censured and mocked when uttering a defense of our defense.

There is an irony in that we Israelis know the enemy can see “the whites of his eyes.” Not so the cousins in Chicago or the son in London.

Not so my daughter in South Africa who was rhythmically jeered at in her college cafeteria with the phrase, “Baby killer, baby killer!” When I posted on someone’s Facebook page that it was hard remaining stoic with a son in the army, I received a note – signed, no less – stating: “I hope your son dies a terrible death.” After the initial gasp, I scratched my head and wondered what I was missing. Asking myself: “To whom do I wish death? How does it feel to live with such hatred?”

My soldier son doesn’t hate. He feels motivated and dedicated and kindhearted and wants to live in peace. He wants his family to have peace. He loves Israel and wants his children to grow up in a country where swords become plowshares and bomb shelters morph into pottery workshops.

Sometimes it appears as if those who encourage us to deal Hamas an iron-handed blow and show no mercy are dreaming that the battles fought in the sands of Gaza will miraculously resolve the Islamization of Hendon, Paris and Johannesburg.

Only G-d knows the next step and the next playing field(s). What I know is that after the summer of 2014, there is nothing sweeter than sitting in a city park with an ice-pop or sandwich in hand and, in lieu of blasting rocket fire, listening to the wrens chirping and the drone of pedestrians discussing anything and everything mundane. A

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dating

PLAYING WITH MATCHES

by Jennifer Garstang jenscy@gmail.com

Six Dating Sins to Add to your Tashlich List

O

ne of my favorite Rosh Hashanah traditions is Tashlich, where a congregation gathers at a body of water to cast away bread crumbs that represent our “sins.”

I say sins in quotations because my family doesn’t just include broken mitzvot, but also actions that have held us back from achieving our capital-g Goals (like happiness, fulfillment, etc.).

We’ve found that local wildlife is also quite enthusiastic about participating in this ritual, which has led my family to rename the tradition: “Feeding our Sins to the Ducks.” Whatever you call it, it’s a wonderful way to reflect on the areas where we’ve fallen short, and renew our commitment to doing better.

So here are six “Dating Sins” that you should feed to the waterfowl this Tashlich.

1. Putting your own expectations onto others: We all experience the world through our own lenses, and people are far more complicated than those lenses would have us believe. To have successful relationships, we must do our best to see past our filters. How? By being vigilant about our own motivations, setting aside our egos, and really listening to our partners.

2. Pursuing perfection: Take a moment and think about what “perfect” is to you. Now, why is that exact scenario or set of traits “perfect?” Most of us believe, at least on some level, that if we could just achieve A, B, and C, or find a date who is X, Y, and Z, then we would be completely, blissfully, happy. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as objective perfection, and trying to force ourselves, others, and our relationships into an artificial box is 22 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

a surefire path to misery.

3. Settling: There’s a difference between not pursuing perfection and giving up on what makes you happy. When you truly feel that you’ve settled, you’re not only being unfair to yourself, but also to the person for whom you’re settling. Odds are, there’s someone out there who’d make you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot...and someone else out there will feel like they’ve hit the jackpot with the person you’re currently seeing.

4. Expecting your partner to complete you: It’s very easy to think that in order to be happy and whole you need to find your “other half.” But a relationship isn’t about two half-people making one whole. It’s about two whole people creating a thriving partnership.

5. Not being your best self: Unfortunately, we often fall short of our potential. Perhaps it’s because we’re afraid of really putting ourselves out there and getting rejected, or perhaps it’s just that the daily grind leaves us worn out and stressed. Whatever the reason, it isn’t good enough! You deserve to be the best you, and others deserve to experience the best you.

6. Beating yourself up (metaphorically) for sinning: There’s a reason we repeat the Tashlich tradition every year: Part of being human is messing up sometimes (or lots of times) and that’s okay. Remember: If you never fail, it means you never try. So forgive yourself for past mistakes, and go forth into the new year secure in the knowledge that you’ll have a few doozies for next year! A

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guest column

DROPS OF TORAH

by Rabbi Scott Meltzer rabbi@ohrshalom.org

5775 – Let it Rain

H

ere in Southern California, as the New Year rapidly approaches, we find ourselves in a serious drought – literally. Our water storages are at historic lows, but for most of us the drought is about inconvenience – it affects watering our lawns and washing our cars. We read about the drought daily, and yet, every time I walk in the grocery store I find a complete aisle filled with bottled water; and every time I turn on a faucet I expect water to come out (when it doesn’t, I call a plumber rather than bemoan the drought or offer a prayer). This is in contrast to approximately 783 million people around the globe who, according to the World Health Organization, live without an appropriate water source.

Our ancestors, also, were not spoiled like we are – no stocked grocery store aisles and no faucets.

Their relationship with water was much more straightforward: If it didn’t rain, crops didn’t grow, people died. The availability of seemingly limitless clean water has desensitized us to our dependence on water.

The amount of time a person can go without water is measured in days. Water is essential to life.

It is why words of our Torah are referred to as water.

After listening to the shofar blasts on Rosh Hashanah we will sing “Hayom harat olam,” “Today is the birthday of the world.” No matter what birth story you choose, we begin with water.

Ask evolutionary biologists – the earliest life forms begin in water. Our earliest ancestors walked forth from the great oceans.

If you look to the Torah, water is also there – from the beginning. Before G-d said “let there be light,” Torah says: “And the spirit of G-d fluttered across the face of the water” (Gen. 1:2). In the 24 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

whole Torah, G-d’s spirit rests upon very few things – a human being (Betzalel), the Mishkan (Tabernacle), and in Genesis 1, water.

So if Rosh Hashanah is the day when the world is born, then we must re-enter the water in order to celebrate with, and participate in, the birthday of the world.

We have a tradition for the pool in which we swim in these waters of creation – Mikveh Mayyim, a gathering place of water (more commonly referred to as Mikvah).

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, go swimming.

Find a gathering place of water – the ocean, a mikvah, a swimming pool. Re-enter the primordial elixir from which life sprang and springs. While in the water, hear your heartbeat merge with the ancient heartbeat of creation that can still be heard and felt in the water. Let the gathering place of water be a place in which you can reflect on life up to this moment, and envision the life that will be there for you when you emerge from this primordial womb.

Emerge from the water with the birthing of the New Year refreshed. Let the waters of the mikvah help us identify the areas of drought in our lives, and help us to find the spring that will flow to end the drought.

Please G-d, may it be a new year of bountiful water – literally for those who lack, and spiritually for us, for the whole House of Israel, and for all who seek You. A Rabbi Scott Meltzer is the Rabbi of Ohr Shalom synagogue. He also teaches in the Department of Religious Studies at SDSU.

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spirituality

THE ARTIST’S TORAH

by David Ebenbach ebenbach@netzero.com

Stepping Out of Prose

A

curious thing happens at the end of Deuteronomy. For several Torah portions, Moses has been detailing more laws for the Israelites and, above all, hammering on the importance of following all of G-d’s instructions completely. To motivate his charges, Moses has (at G-d’s behest) described at length all the wonderful things G-d will do for a faithful people – and, at much greater length, all the horrible things G-d will do to an unfaithful people. By the time we reach chapter 32, the point has been made, forcefully and repeatedly. And yet we’re not done.

G-d really wants to get this message across, and so G-d chooses a more intense vehicle than we usually see in the Torah. Instead of prose, we shift to poetry.

This is a noticeable shift, even visually: instead of being in the usual single column, the text of this poem is in two columns, offering us a sense of line breaks like what we see in most poetry today.

The text is also in classic Biblical poetry style.

Robert Alter goes into this subject in great depth in his excellent book “The Art of Biblical Poetry,” but the basic ideas are easy enough to grasp. First of all, Biblical poetry uses parallelism. In other words, it says something and then immediately says something very similar right afterward. For example, the poem begins: Give ear, you heavens, and I will speak./And let the earth hear the words of my mouth (32:1). Two consecutive lines about asking the natural world to listen. But usually the parallelism is accompanied by intensification, so that the repetition is a stronger version of the original: Remember the days of old,/consider the years of many generations (32:7). From days to years; from of old to a grander statement about 26 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

generations. Or: He found him in a desert land,/ and in the waste, a howling emptiness (32:10).

Here we escalate from a desert to a howling emptiness.

The point is this: the Torah turns from prose to poetry because we need more intensity, and poetry is ideal for delivering it. The same goes for all art forms. Think of the way a painting can give power to, say, a landscape, that we might not notice if we were just looking at it through a window. Or the way that filmmakers use camerawork and music to reinforce the emotion of a scene. Art of all kinds demands a heightened attention and helps us to focus that attention.

This is one of the reasons that it’s worth turning to art, whether creating it or just taking it in: it helps us to engage seriously with the world. Art, as our ancestors recognized, is there to direct us toward what matters most.

Art isn’t the only way, of course – as we approach the High Holidays, we’ll do a lot of other things to focus ourselves – we’ll pray, eat special foods on some days, fast on others, immerse in water, listen to divrei Torah, and so on. Though art plays a role here, too – the music and poetry of our liturgy, for starters. The larger point is that there are times when we need to bring our sharpest, deepest attention, and we do whatever we can to produce it.

Now, we can’t live high-intensity lives every minute – we’d lose our minds, and in any case sometimes we just need to put our heads down and get ordinary things done – but neither can we go through life entirely in plain prose. Luckily, as the Torah itself shows us, we don’t have to. A

 This

month’s Torah portions Sept. 6: Ki Tetze (Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19) Sept. 13: Ki Tavo (Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8) Sept. 20: Nitzavim/ Vayelech (Deuteronomy 29:9-31:30) Sept. 27: Ha’azinu (Deuteronomy 32:1-32:52)

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israel

Amidst sirens, one San Diegan begins her life as an Israeli citizen

By Natalie Jacobs

Talya Herring cares for patients at Aleh Negev as part of her national service.

A

bout seven miles from the Gaza border lives a special needs community called Aleh Negev. This “rehabilitation village” is on a sprawling 25 acres and was made to provide an exceptional level of care for severely disabled adults and children. When warning sirens become a part of the daily soundtrack, caring for these citizens means sleeping two staff members to a room and rushing wheelchaired patients to the bomb shelter. One of the volunteers who worked to do this as quickly and effectively as possible is a young woman from San Diego.

Talya Herring graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in 2012. Prior to that, she attended Chabad Hebrew Academy and spent summers at Camp Ramah. Her parents, who both lived on kibbutzim in their day, instilled in her a strong love of Israel.

“I grew up thinking it would be cool to live in a Jewish place,” Herring says over the phone from Israel. “I’m a Jew, I live in suburbia. My neighbors are Muslim and Christian and Mormon and I’m a Jew, so why not live in a Jewish place? But it was a distant thought.”

With that in the back of her mind, she became 28 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

more involved in Jewish organizations in San Diego while exploring the depths of her personal connection to Zionism. During that time, she thought a lot about how she as a Jew can support Israel from the diaspora while learning that she identified strongly as a religious Zionist.

So when she graduated high school, Herring joined a seminary program through which she spent a year in Jerusalem, studying religion and the history of Israel from the homeland. After the program ended, Herring came back to San Diego for a summer, but had plans to return to Israel immediately, as a citizen.

“My parents visited me in November and I had already made up my mind that I was going to make aliyah but I didn’t want to tell them. ...

My mom came right up to me and she said ‘so, after this program, are you planning on staying here?’ and I was like ‘yep!’”

But the conversation didn’t stop there.

Herring and her parents proceeded to have long discussions about the decision, even though ultimately Herring had already made up her mind.

“For me,” she says, “I’m so thankful for the interrogation because it made me really sure of

my decision and it made me really confident that this is the right thing for me.”

She is at Aleh Negev now as a member of the national service (a way for religious girls to serve the country without joining the army).

In a place where tension is palpable and an understanding of pain and suffering is inescapable, Herring emphasizes that life also continues. Her job during the rocket barrages was to make sure that the disabled adults and children she serves in the medical wing are kept in good spirits, not unnecessarily stressed by the threats around them.

“If we go into the bomb shelter, we start singing. We’re doing a lot of activities and we’re making sure that [the residents] are doing their normal thing.”

When we speak in the middle of the July during Operation Protective Edge, Herring notes that keeping the residents unaware of the dangers requires a grown-up level of commitment from herself and her fellow young volunteers.

“For me, it’s scary as in it’s a lot of responsibility to make sure that someone else is safe. It’s also hard. What if there is not enough room in the bomb shelter? That means that I’m watching a

PHOTOS COURTESY TALYA HERRING

I

WORKING NEAR GAZA

person that I connect with so much, sit outside.

It’s terrifying. We try not to let that happen.

We work our hardest not to let that happen but it’s such a scary situation to know that I’m their mother figure. Because of this, it helps me understand when my mother’s worrying about me.”

Making aliyah to fulfill a Zionist duty is hard enough when it requires being so far away from home, but adding a war into the mix makes the commitment even more trying. Herring isn’t phased though. She understands that there is pain and suffering throughout the world and feels that what’s important is being connected to a community.

“I look at Israel and the security of going to a mall and there’s a security guard there. And you go on a bus and there’re soldiers there. You’re with your nation, you’re with your peoplehood and you’re with a group of people that are also going through it with you.”

Being in Israel at this time also brings up some

conflicts with the world outside of Israel. From her post near Gaza, Herring has a unique view of the situation, whereas her family and friends back in San Diego are stuck with what the mainstream news and their Facebook newsfeeds show them.

“The hardest part is being strong on the phone talking to my parents and explaining the situation to them. What I’m reading on Facebook from some of my San Diego friends that are pro-Palestine, how people are really blowing up the humanitarian issue into a very political issue. People are suffering and it’s not like people are talking about it to talk about the people suffering, it’s like ‘how can I exploit this to get my message across?’”

Jews in and out of Israel struggle to combat misinformation on social networks, often inciting lots of comments but little understanding on either side. For Herring’s part, she has a blog with the Times of Israel where she is free to express her opinions and feelings of Zionist love.

She typically doesn’t get involved in social media

conversations, unless it’s a particularly horrible offense.

“I did [comment on a Facebook post] one time,” she says. “A girl I went to high school with, she posted a rant that Zionists own all the media and they own all the products and they’re controlling everything and she’s surprised when a Zionist walks down the street without killing small children in self defense.

“I wrote that I appreciate her opinion and I appreciate her standing up for her peoplehood but it’s a little hurtful to hear. It’s anti-Semitism.

You can stand up for your people without smashing other people.”

Herring will continue working with Aleh Negev through the end of the year. Then she will move onto her second year of national service as a tour guide in an Israeli school. After that, she’ll attend college in Israel, though she isn’t sure what she’ll study. You can follow her blog at timesofisrael.com/author/talya-herring. A Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 29

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SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP

FROM DUES TO DONATIONS Tifereth Israel takes a radical step forward

Inside the Tifereth Israel sanctuary.

T

About a year ago, Tifereth Israel began to dues. ifereth Israel Synagogue, a Conservative “It is stressful for all involved because congregation located in San Carlos, is look seriously at other ways of balancing its paving a novel path to the future – one books. After losing a portion of its congregants the prospective member is made to feel free of membership fees. On July 1 the synagogue to dissatisfaction with the old financing system uncomfortable,” Hermes says. “It is stressful to eliminated its mandatory fixed-dues system, and failing to attract a substantial amount of new the members of the secret committee because opting instead to allow congregants to contribute congregants for the same reason, the executive they have to wrestle with these decisions. All in committee wanted to find a way to make its all, it is a distasteful and uncomfortable process what they wish in support of the synagogue. from beginning to end.”

As you are likely aware, synagogues typically synagogue more inviting.

As discussions proceeded, Tifereth Israel “Our former executive director was constantly finance their operations through a membership model whereby everyone is expected to contribute complaining about the stress that the entire decided to organize a task force that consisted process [of collecting membership] put on her of a “broad cross-section of board members, the same amount each year.

“In California,” explains Jerry Hermes, and her staff,” Hermes says. “So we were looking, non-board members and professional staff ” to executive committee president for Tifereth Israel, up until a year ago, not real hard, but we were investigate how the synagogue might solve its “everybody uses this fixed-dues model, which looking for some other way of doing this and in fixed-dues problem. An awakening occurred the absence of something better, you stick with amongst task-force members when they realized came into being a hundred years ago or so.”

With this traditional model, a synagogue first what you got. Then we found something better.” that the old system was outmoded and the new With every fixed-dues system comes a dues system had to be made “relevant to the people determines the cost of its operations, and then fixes membership dues based on needed income adjustment committee for members who are of today.” The group began looking to other unable to meet the financial burden of formal synagogues around the country for alternative to keep the congregation’s doors open.

“I’m calling [our new model of financing] membership. The committee consists of a models. radical or revolutionary because nobody out here confidential group of synagogue members who (continued on pg. 34) reviewFaulconer, applications for reduced Bolton, membership is doing L-R: it,” Hermes says.

Katherine and Mayor Kevin Michael Doreen and Dr. Myron Schonbrun.

32 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

PHOTOS COURTESY TIFERETH ISRAEL

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Outside Tifereth Israel.

A financial expert from Tifereth Israel’s umbrella organization, the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, brought to its attention something new that was happening in several synagogues on the east coast.

“We didn’t reinvent the wheel,” Hermes explains.

Tifereth Israel’s task force found that a handful of congregations along the eastern seaboard have innovative financial models that they could use as a model to craft their own new way forward. The most well known is Temple Israel, a Conservative congregation in the Boston suburb of Sharon, Mass.

Since overhauling its financial model and replacing it with a voluntary offering system four years ago, Temple Israel has witnessed both a growth in income and an increase in new membership.

“We used their success as a template for what we were going to do. We adapted it to our own needs,” Hermes says.

Several months after first beginning the exploration process, Tifereth Israel’s board of directors voted to adopt the new system.

The new model is aptly named T’rumah, a reference to Exodus 25:1 to 27:19 which explains how the Israelites financed their temple after wandering the Sinai desert. Hermes describes the biblical reference as the primary source of inspiration for the new offering system.

34 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

“Everyone gave from their heart what they could give and no one was looked down upon because they gave less than their neighbor.

“We look at all our members as donors now.

We want them to be as generous as they possibly can,” Hermes says. “[Members] come up with one number and keep it simple.”

In making the system voluntary, the hope is to inspire feelings of positivity toward the institution. Donations from members will sustain programs that were once funded by mandatory dues.

Administrators like Hermes have strong faith that this new system will “bring out the best in their congregants rather than the worst,” and in removing the obligation, some members will actually donate more than what they gave last year.

Programs that require member support include the after-school Torah program that meets on Wednesdays and Sundays. Membership donations also sustain the entire financial overhead of the organization which include such things as salary, payroll and social programs.

“We are empowering our members to decide how much it is worth to them to sustain Tifereth Israel to keep its doors open and be there to serve them,” Hermes says.

One very notable change within the body of the new system, besides the revolutionary elimination of the fixed “set-by-the-board dues,”

is the removal of the “ubiquitous” High Holiday appeal. In place of the traditional High Holiday appeal, Tifereth Israel will ask its congregants to “roll their High Holiday offerings into their T’rumah offerings and [congregants] will not have to make a separate pledge.”

This is the first time in the synagogue’s 109year history that there will be no High Holiday appeal. Tifereth Israel chose to take this step so that the holiday itself can be a focus on prayer and repentance without the worry of charity.

In acting as a vanguard of synagogue finance renovation, Tifereth Israel hopes to ultimately attract new members and create a less stressful, more pleasurable experience for its congregation.

The general reaction by members has, so far, been quite favorable to the new model. Hermes notes that one-third of the congregation has already responded to the donation forms mailed out in May. Hermes hopes that other synagogues will call on Tifereth Israel, like they did on Temple Israel in Massachusetts, for advice on how to escape from the traditional fixed-dues system.

“We will never turn away any Jew who wants to be a member of our congregation over money matters, period. We hope that taking this burden off of people will foster a greater spirit of community and family.”

For more information about the synagogue, visit tiferethisrael.com. A

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Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 35

SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP

THE 21ST CENTURY SYNAGOGUE Rabbis get inventive to expand attendance and commitment

BY BRIE STIMSON

PHOTOS COURTESY TEMPLE ADAT SHALOM

Rob Weinberg of Temple Adat Shalom serves up some blintzes at their Jewish Food Festival last spring.

A

ccording to the now infamous Pew Research Center study, only 31 percent of American Jews say they are members of a synagogue. Additionally, there has been a marked trend toward secularism amongst Jews in the last several decades.

Adding on top of those bleak numbers, a report done in 2012 by the Synagogue 3000 Studies Institute, an independent research group based in Van Nuys, Calif., found membership to be on the decline in 1,215 Conservative and Reform congregations across the country. The problem has been most notable in the absence of younger members. Adults older than 65 make up the largest number in both Conservative and 36 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Reform synagogues, 20 to 25 percent, while young adults make up less than ten percent for both congregation types.

“Synagogues have not known what to do with young people after ninth grade and until after they get married and have children,” says Rabbi Aaron Spiegel, chief executive for Synagogue 3000.

Across the country, synagogues are attempting to enliven their congregations’ to appeal to the desirable Generation X. In Springfield, Mass., faced with an under-representation of 20-somethings, several synagogues came together to generate excitement for services. As a coalition, they began adding extra events after Shabbat and

during holidays, including “Martinis and Magic,” a chic Purim celebration involving different types of drinks, a magician, and a reading from the Book of Esther. Other popular events included “Bagels, Books, and Beyond” held at the library and “Jewish Java” held at Starbucks, giving people time in which to speak casually with a rabbi over a cup of coffee. At “Bagels Books, and Beyond” children were given Jewish music and books to think about. “Try a Synagogue” became a joint effort between three local Springfield synagogues.

The program allows unaffiliated Jews to try any of the three synagogues, sampling the programs offered by each. This partnership approach also includes a low promotional member price for any

SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP

of the affiliated congregations.

Other synagogues across the country are using digital media to attract new and younger members. Jvillage, a web-based company headquartered in Burlington, Vt., is hoping to bring congregations into the 21st century by appealing to digital natives.

“If Jewish institutions don’t move in [the digital] direction,” Yorem Samets, Jvillage’s creator, told the Burlington Free Press in 2010, “they are going to be less relevant in the lives of their congregants.”

When a synagogue signs on with Jvillage, a membership engagement team helps with things like fundraising, analytics, and starting a rabbi blog, all in the interest of bringing synagogues up to speed with the modern world of technology.

Here in San Diego, local congregations have also recognized the need for innovative programs to increase membership.

“We are using Facebook a lot now,” says Rabbi Mendel Polichenco of Chabad Chula Vista and Tijuana. The rabbi says they have also started sports activities for kids to join (soccer is the most popular), and he also writes a blog (shalomamigo. com) about events at his congregation and the area, both in English and Spanish. On their website, Chabad Chula Vista and Tijuana has a kid-friendly link to the Itche Kadoozy Show, an Internet puppet show created by chabad.org. It follows the comical adventures of puppet Rabbi Itche Kadoozy while teaching lessons about the Torah.

Since moving their learning and activities center to the heart of La Jolla two years ago, Chabad La Jolla has seen the numbers in their Hebrew school, Aleph Champ, and bar and bat mitzvah clubs triple.

“We are in the process of tripling the size of our center to include a full Jewish school of the arts and other fantastic educational programs for all ages including a linguistic school for adults,” Sandi Ruttenberg, office manager for Chabad La Jolla, says.

“Our center will have a fully functioning social hall area for family celebrations of any kind and a beautiful sanctuary to match,” she continues.

People wanting to use the facility or to join any of their programs are not required to be members.

Temple Adat Shalom in Poway has also been getting creative to attract new members this August and September, encouraging those curious about the synagogue to “try us out for

Adat Shalom's Myron and Sue Solomon enjoy traditional Jewish grub with the community. a month.” Prospective members pay for one month and are offered everything available to members from religious school to daycare with no commitment to continue beyond the month.

With no standardized membership packet, Adat Shalom personalizes each one for the specific needs of the family or individual.

“If you want to be here, we want you to be here,” says Executive Director Jeffrey Frankel.

“Come and be part of the community.”

Already as a result of this program, Adat Shalom’s membership has crossed the borders of Poway into other areas of North County.

“We have members in Carmel Valley…in Oceanside. We have members in Temecula,” Frankel says.

The nearby Ner Tamid Synagogue is choosing to focus on community events, with a Fourth of July Barbeque that had fireworks, catered food, and a DJ. Other Ner Tamid events throughout the year include a Hanukkah Party, Poker Night, and Yoga. They have also seen an uptick in attendance since starting to communicate with potential members on Facebook and Twitter.

Not all synagogues are looking to increase membershp, however.

“We’ve purposefully kept our membership small,” says Rabbi Wayne Dosick of the Elijah Minyan, the only Jewish Renewal organization in San Diego. “We’ve decided along the way to remain small and intimate.”

Taking a personal approach, he knows each and every member referring to them as a “close family.” Having no actual building, they meet in the homes of various members.

While the innovations are coming in a variety of forms, they all have the shared goal of creating a stronger commitment to Jewish identity and community. In order to remain relevant, synagogues in and out of San Diego are innovating their structure, revitalizing their programs, and opening their places of worship to a younger generation.

“When people come here, they like what they see,” Adat Shalom’s Frankel says, “but if they don’t ever make their way here, we don’t connect with them.” A

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 37

“Pray for the love of Jerusalem.

Those who love her will find serenity.” — Psalm 122:6 May we be counted among those who pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and may serenity embrace Israel and all her people.

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5775 High Holidays Schedule of Services COMPILED BY TINAMARIE BERNARD

40 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

A HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

CHABAD CONGREGATIONS Chabad Alef Center Lakehouse Hotel and Resort 1025 La Bonita Dr. San Marcos, CA 92078 alefcenter.com (760) 481-7503 Suggested donation is $180 (though no one will be turned away for lack of funds).

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 10 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 10 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. evening service Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service

Oct. 5: 10 a.m. morning service Chabad Center of University City 3813 Governor Drive San Diego, CA 92122 chabaduc.org (858) 455-1670 Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:15 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9 a.m. morning service 6 p.m. afternoon service and Taschlich 7:15 p.m. evening service Sept. 26: 9 a.m. morning service 6:15 p.m. afternoon service and Kabbalat Shabbat Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre and evening service

Oct 4: 10 a.m. morning service 1 p.m. memorial service 4:30 p.m. afternoon service 6 p.m. evening service Chabad Jewish Center of Oceanside 1930 Sunset Drive Vista, CA 92081 jewishoceanside.com (760) 806-7765 *Call for times and reservation info.

Chabad Jewish Center of Rancho Santa Fe P.O. Box 8282 Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 jewishrsf.com (858) 756-7571 *Call for times and reservation info.

Chabad at La Costa 1980 La Costa Ave. Carlsbad, CA 92009 chabadatlacosta.com (760) 943-8891 *Contact office for childcare times and registration. Register online for community dinner.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening service and community dinner Sept. 25: 9 a.m. morning service 11 a.m. shofar service 5:30 p.m. Taschlich at San Marcos creek Sept. 26: 9 a.m. morning service 11 a.m. shofar service 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 27: 10 a.m. Shabbat Shuvah

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Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 41 8/14/14 2:38 PM

HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

A

SENIORS CAN HITCH A FREE RIDE TO SERVICES THROUGH ON THE GO Jewish Family Service’s On the Go program will offer seniors free rides to High Holidays services throughout the county.

No one older than 60 should miss High Holidays services if they don’t have transportation, which is why JFS and On the Go have teamed up again this year to offer those community members a free ride to and from services in most instances.

Advance registration is required, and seniors must live within the service area and go to a participating synagogue to receive a ride from volunteer drivers.

Participating synagogues include: Congregation Beth Am, Congregation Beth El, Congregation Beth Israel, Congregation Dor Hadash, Ner Tamid Synagogue, Temple Adat Shalom, Ohr Shalom Synagogue, Temple Emanu-El, Temple Solel and Tifereth Israel Synagogue.

In addition to High Holidays services transportation, On the Go keeps seniors moving with volunteer drivers who provide individual transportation to doctor appointments and other errands, shuttles for group transportation and organized excursions throughout San Diego and the surrounding areas.

For more information, go to jfssd.org/onthego or call (619) 220-0268.

Tickets are not required. You are encouraged to invite and share with others. The SDSU campus shofar blowing will take place at the bottom of Campanile Dr. Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening service 8 p.m. free dinner for students and young professionals Sept.25: 10 a.m. morning service noon shofar service 5 p.m. campus shofar blowing Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning 5 p.m. evening service 7:06 p.m. break the fast Chabad of Downtown 472 Third Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 chabaddowntown.com (619) 702-8518 *Call for times and reservation info.

Chabad of La Jolla 909 Prospect St., Suite 210 La Jolla, CA 92037 chabadoflajolla.com (858) 455-5433 Tickets are $180. Call the office for reservations. For all holiday information, visit the website.

Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 8 a.m. morning service 6:30 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 11 a.m. children’s program noon memorial service 4:30 p.m. afternoon service 5:30 p.m. evening service Chabad of Carmel Valley 11410 Carmel Country Road San Diego, CA 92130 chabadcv.com (858) 755-1886 *Call for times and reservation info.

Chabad of Chula Vista and Tijuana (Chabad Without Borders) 1548 Bedford Ave. Chula Vista, CA 91913 chabadwithoutborders.com (619) 726-4645 Mexico: 011(52664) 6862692/3 *Call for times and reservation info.

Chabad of the College Area 6115 Montezuma Road San Diego, CA 92115 jewishstudentlife.org (619) 265-0519 *There is no charge to attend.

42 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Rosh Hashanah: All morning services start at 10 a.m. followed by Taschlich on the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

Evening services start at 6:30 p.m.

Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:30 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 7:02 p.m. break the fast Chabad of Pacific Beach 4150 Mission Blvd., Suite 212 San Diego, CA 92109 chabadPB.org (619) 333-0344 *Rosh Hashanah services will

be held at Chabad of Pacific Beach (the address above).

Yom Kippur will be held at the Bahia Resort Hotel at 998 W. Mission Bay Dr., San Diego.

No R.S.V.P. required and all seating is free with donations suggested.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 10 a.m. Taschlich 2:15 p.m. afternoon service 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 26: 10 a.m. morning 6:15 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service 1 p.m. memorial service 5:15 p.m. afternoon service 6 p.m. evening service 7:07 p.m. break the fast Chabad of Poway 16934 Chabad Way Poway, CA 92064 chabadpoway.com (858) 451-0455 *Call for times and reservation info.

Chabad Scripps Ranch 10785 Pomerado Road San Diego, CA 92131 chabaddiego.com (858) 547-0076 * All are welcome regardless of affiliation. No cost with donations appreciated.

Children’s programming available, includes lunch and shofar blowing.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening services followed by community dinner.

Sept.: 25: 10 a.m. morning services 10:30 a.m. children’s program and shofar blowing Sept.: 26: 10 a.m. morning services 10:30 a.m. children’s program

A HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

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and shofar blowing Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service 10:30 a.m. children’s program noon memorial service 5:30 p.m. evening service 7:06 p.m. community break the fast Chabad of Temecula Valley 43946 Carentan Drive Temecula, CA 92592 jewishtemecula.com (951) 813-1401 *Call for times and reservation info.

ORTHODOX CONGREGATIONS Beth Jacob Congregation 4855 College Ave. San Diego, CA 92115 bjsd.org (619) 287-9890 *Email saritbethjacob6@ yahoo.com for tickets and information.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:25 p.m. afternoon service service Sept 25: 7:45 a.m. morning service 10:45 a.m. shofar blowing 6:15 p.m. evening service and children’s program Sept. 26: 7:45 a.m. morning service 10:45 a.m. shofar blowing 6:15 p.m. evening service and children’s program Sept. 26: 7:45 and 8:45 a.m. morning services 4:50 p.m. Shabbat Shuva Drasha 6:05 p.m. evening service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 and 7 a.m. morning services 2 p.m. afternoon service 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct 4: 8 a.m. morning service and children’s program

11:30 a.m. memorial service 3:45 p.m. afternoon service 5:30 p.m. evening service Congregation Adat Yeshurun 8625 La Jolla Scenic Drive North La Jolla, CA 92037 adatyeshurun.org (858) 535-1196 option 2 *Reservations are required.

Tickets are $195 per person; high school and college students free. Children’s programming available for children ages 3-12 for $39 per child up to a family maximum of $100. Cost covers all services. Break the fast tickets required separately and cost $15 per person. Contact Annette Olsen or visit the website for services times.

Kehillat Ahavat Yisrael 11860 Carmel Creek Road San Diego, CA 92130 kaysandiego.org (858) 633-0181 *Tickets are $180 for an individual, $300 for a couple or $360 for a nucleus family.

Children’s programming during all services. R.S.V.P. to mail@ kaysandiego.org.

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Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9 a.m. with shofar service 11:15 a.m. morning service 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 26: 9 a.m. with shofar service 11:15 a.m. morning service 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 27: 9:30 a.m. Shabbat Shuvah

Tuesday, October 28 at 7:00pm

Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:25 p.m. evening service 6:45 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 11 a.m. memorial service 6 p.m. evening service

Balboa Theater 868 4th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 Purchase tickets at www.fidf.org/sandiego For more information, call Friends of the IDF at 858-926-3210 or email us at sandiego@fidf.org Their job is to look after Israel. Ours is to look after them.

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 43

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HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

Kehillas Torah 14133 Via Alisal San Diego, CA 92128 kehillastorah.org (858) 829-9648 *All services are at the Doubletree Resort, 14455 Peñasquitos Dr., San Diego, CA 92129. Tickets ($125) are required and include both holidays. No charge for active military. Childcare will be available.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 9 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. evening service Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 5 p.m. evening service Young Israel of San Diego 7289 Navajo Road San Diego, CA 92119 yisd.youngisrael.org (619) 589-1447

A

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:20 a.m. morning service 6:25 p.m. afternoon service Sept. 25: 8 a.m. morning service 10:45 a.m. Kiddush 11:15 a.m. shofar service 6:15 p.m. afternoon service Sept 26: 8 a.m. morning service 10:45 a.m. kiddush 11:15 a.m. shofar service 6:20 p.m. afternoon service Sept 27: 8:45 a.m. morning service 5:40 p.m. Shabbat Shuva Drasha 6:10 p.m. afternoon service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:20 a.m. morning service 1:30 p.m. afternoon service at 6:15 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 8 a.m. morning service 11:45 a.m. memorial service 5 p.m. afternoon service 6:10 p.m. evening service

CONSERVATIVE CONGREGATIONS Congregation B’nai Chaim

29500 Via Princesa Murrieta, CA 92563 bnai-chaim.org (951) 677-7350 *Call for times and reservation info.

Congregation B’nai Shalom 201 E. Broadway Vista, CA 92084 bnaishalomsd.org (760) 659-0654 or 760-8064766 *Services will be held at Carlsbad by the Sea Hotel off Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad (except second day of Rosh Hashanah). Nonmember fee for tickets is $75.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept 24: 7:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9:30 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 9:30 a.m. morning

service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:30 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 9:30 a.m. morning service 5 p.m. evening service 6:30 p.m. break the fast Congregation Beth Am 5050 Del Mar Heights Road San Diego, CA 92130 betham.com (858) 481-8454 *Advanced registration required for childcare and children’s program by Sept. 16. Contact Susan at ext. 22 or susan@ betham.com.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 8:45 a.m. morning service 9:30 a.m. family tot service (ages 18 months-kindergarten) 10 a.m. children’s (grades 1-7) program Sept. 26: 8:45 a.m. morning service

THOUGHTS FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON From Rabbi Samuel of Temple Beth Shalom

We often identify our core self with the role in life we happen to play.

Men more so than women tend to define their identity by what they do. In the ancient Greek plays, actors used to wear a special mask called a "persona," which dramatized the role an actor would play in the Greek theaters. It may be no linguistic accident that the word "person" derives from the Greek "persona." According to Carl Jung, we define our individual personhood by the roles we play in life. Hence, person and persona are intricately related. Yet, there is a danger that sometimes occurs when we mistake the inner person with the outer persona to those around us.

Rosh Hashanah spirituality is not for the faint of heart. The holiday demands spiritual and moral authenticity. The High Holiday season beckons us to ask ourselves: “Who am I?” “What am I living for?”

What would happen if our professional lives dissolved because of a crisis?

An 18th century Jewish mystic, Reb Zusha, once said: “In the afterlife, G-d isn’t going to ask me, ‘Why weren’t you more like Moses,’ or ‘Why weren’t you like Samuel or Joshua?’ The Almighty is going to ask me, ‘Why weren’t you like Zusha?’”

44 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

The High Holidays urge us to get in touch with the “small voice of G-d” that exists inside each of us. They are truly, “Days of Awe,” because they challenge us to get in touch with our souls as we make the conscious choice to start living the New Year with renewed purpose and fulfillment.

Jews don’t start the New Year wearing party hats, nor to we overdrink in its celebration. Instead, we celebrate the future by looking at our past.

However, there is one thing we share with the secular New Year – we celebrate it with horns. To assist us along the journey, the sound of the Shofar serves as a spiritual alarm clock. Its message is simple: It's time to wake up and examine the quality of our lives. Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of a 10-day period where we embark upon a thoughtful and introspective inner journey where we learn and discover much about ourselves. Have we grown as people?

Let us use this time to improve our relationships. This is a time we need to start becoming true to ourselves, our families, our communities, and to our G-d.

May you all be blessed with a wonderful and sweet New Year.

A HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

10 a.m. children’s program (grades 1-7) Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. Kol Nidre 8:45 p.m. second service Oct. 4: 8:45 a.m. morning service 9:30 a.m. family tot service 10 a.m. childcare and children’s program 4:30 p.m. memorial service 5 p.m. evening services Congregation Beth El 8660 Gilman Drive La Jolla, CA 92037 cbe.org (858) 452-1734 Members can purchase additional tickets for $240; nonmembers for $360 each.

Child care is available for children ages 18 months to five years for $18 per child. Call office by Sept. 1 to register.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:15 p.m. evening service 7:45 p.m. evening service for Chai 20s and 30s Sept. 25: 9 a.m. morning service 10:15 a.m. family service 5 p.m. Taschlich at Kellogg Park, La Jolla Shores Sept. 26: 9 a.m. morning service 10:15 a.m. family service 6:15 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. Kol Nidre 6:45 p.m. family service 8:45 p.m. free alternative Kol Nidre community-wide service Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 10:15 a.m. family service 4 p.m. afternoon service 8 p.m. evening service free to the community 8 p.m. Chai 20s and 30s break the fast

Congregation B’nai Tikvah 2510 Gateway Road Carlsbad, CA 92009 bnaitikvahsd.com (760) 757-9770 *Services held with Rabbi Ben Leinow and Cantor Larry Kornit. Call for times and reservation info.

Ner Tamid Synagogue 15318 Pomerado Road Poway, CA 92064 nertamidsd.org (858) 513-8330 *Tickets for adult nonmembers are $300. No charge for nonmember children younger than 13. Childcare provided for a small fee on the first day of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 8:30 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 10:30 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 10:30 a.m. children’s service Ohr Shalom Synagogue 2512 Third Ave. San Diego, CA 92103 ohrshalom.org (619) 231-1456 *Call for times and reservation info.

Ohr Shalom Synagogue

Best wishes for a sweet and healthy 5775.

Scott Meltzer, Rabbi Ray Sachs, President

2512 Third Avenue at Laurel San Diego, CA 92103 619.231.1456 office@ohrshalom.org www.ohrshalom.org

As we celebrate 5775, we reflect on how far we have come and how far we still have to go to secure “justice and fair treatment to all.”

At this time of reflection, we thank you for helping us to Imagine A World Without Hate®.

L’Shana Tovah, ADL BoArD AnD StAff of the SAn Diego region

Temple Beth Shalom 208 Madrona St. Chula Vista, CA 91910 bethshalomtemple.com (619) 420-6040 *Nonmembers donation is $125.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9:30 a.m. morning service 6:30 p.m. second-night dinner Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 45

HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

($25 per adult, $15 per child) Sept. 26: 9:30 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:30 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service Temple Beth Sholom of Temecula 26790 Ynez Ct. Suite B Temecula, CA 92591 tbstemecula.org (951) 679-0419 *Call for reservations Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9:30 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 9:30 a.m. morning service 7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 4 p.m. memorial service

A

Temple Isaiah 332 W. Alejo Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 templeisaiahps.com (760) 325-2281 *Call for times and reservation info.

Tifereth Israel Synagogue 6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92119 tiferethisrael.com (619) 697-6001 *Call the office for ticket price.

Childcare and youth services are available at no charge with a reservation. Active military and dependents and students are free.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 8:30 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 8:30 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 8:30 p.m. evening

service Oct 4: 5:45 p.m. evening service open to all Temple Sinai of Palm Desert 73-251 Hovey Lane West Palm Desert, CA 92260 templesinaipd.org (760) 568-9699 *Call for times and reservation info.

REFORM CONGREGATIONS Baja Shalom Rosarito Beach, Mexico bajavurah.com (619) 272-3877 *Call for times and reservation info.

Congregation Beth Israel 9001 Towne Centre Drive San Diego, CA 92122 cbisd.org (858) 535-1111, ext. 3318 *Call for times and reservation info.

SELICHOT AT TEMPLE ADAT SHALOM YOUNG LOCAL MUSICIAN TO GRACE HOLIDAY STAGE

BY NATALIE JACOBS During this year’s Selichot, the night of penitence, Temple Adat Shalom in Poway will host a special concert to uplift the community.

On Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m., young Jonathan Sussman, accompanied by his father, Alan, will present a program developed entirely by the 16-year-old. He will play The Baal Shem Chassidic Life Suite for violin and piano by Bloch, Sonata for Flute and Piano by Schulhoff, Klezmer Rondos by Shoenfield, a selection of Hebrew songs and Israeli dance melodies as well as Bruch’s Kol Nidre for viola and piano.

A flutist since the age of 6, Jonathan has been performing with his father at Jewish organizations around town for many years.

Adat Shalom’s Cantor Lori Wilinsky Frank will accompany the duo on some numbers. Following the concert, Rabbi David Castiglione and Cantor Frank will lead the Selichot service in the sanctuary. All are invited. Visit adatshalom.com for details.

46 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Congregation B’nai Tikvah 2510 Gateway Road Carlsbad, CA 92009 bnaitikvahsd.com (760) 757-9770 *Services held with Rabbi Ben Leinow and Cantor Larry Kornit. Call for times and reservation info.

Congregation Etz Chaim P.O. Box 1138 Ramona, CA 92065 etzchaimramona.org (760) 789-2781 *Services will be conducted by a student rabbi and held in the Rotunda of the San Diego Country Estates, International Equestrian Center, 16911 Gunn Stage Rd., Ramona.

There is no charge to attend but donations are accepted.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 8 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 10 a.m. morning service

A HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 8 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service Congregation Havurim P.O. Box 891663 Temecula, CA 92065 havurim.org (951) 676-1108 *Call for times and reservation info.

Temple Adat Shalom 15905 Pomerado Road Poway, CA 92064 adatshalom.com (858) 451-1200 Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m. Board of Trustees installation Sept. 25: 8:30 a.m. morning service

11:30 a.m. contemporary service 2:30 p.m. children’s service 4 p.m. Taschlich at Lake Poway Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 7:30 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. general and teen morning services 1 p.m. children’s service 2:30 p.m. adult discussion 3:30 p.m. memorial service/ evening service Temple Emanu-El 6299 Capri Drive San Diego, CA 92120 teesd.org (619) 286-2555 *Nonmembers may purchase tickets by calling the temple office. There is no charge for family services but reservations are required.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 10 a.m. morning service 1:30 p.m. family service 5 p.m. Taschlich at Lake Murray Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 7:30 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service 12:30 p.m. Yom Kippur issues forum 2 p.m. family service 3 p.m. afternoon service 4:30 p.m. memorial service 5:30 p.m. evening service Temple Etz Rimon 2020 Chestnut Ave. Carlsbad, CA 92008 templeetzrimon.org

(760) 929-9503 Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 10 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 7 p.m. evening service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 7 p.m. evening service Oct. 4: 10 a.m. morning service Temple Solel 3575 Manchester Ave. Cardiff by the Sea, CA 92007 templesolel.net (760) 436-0654 *Call for times and reservation info.

The Power of Effective Tax Representation Representing companies, officers, and directors in IRS & California State tax audits 8910 University Center Lane, Suite 255, San Diego, CA 92122 Tel (858) 450-1040 • www.caltaxadviser.com

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 47

HIGH HOLIDAYS SERVICE LISTINGS

RECONSTRUCTIONIST CONGREGATIONS Congregation Dor Hadash Services held at Al Bahr Shrine Auditorium (except for Day 2 Rosh Hashanah) 5440 Kearny Mesa Road dorhadash.org (858) 268-3674 *Reservations required and children programming will be available. Adult tickets are $225. Children younger than18 and active military are free; YAD and seniors are $72 and college students (ages 19-26) are $36.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7 p.m. evening service followed by Oneg Sept. 25: 9:30 a.m. morning service 4:30 p.m. Taschlich at Play Pacifica, Mission Bay Park Sept. 26: 9:30 a.m. morning service text study at San Diego Jewish Academy Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 7 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 9:30 a.m. morning service 4:30 p.m. afternoon service 5:30 p.m. memorial service 6:15 p.m. evening service and Havdalah 7:15 p.m. break the fast

JEWISH RENEWAL CONGREGATIONS Shir Ha-Yam 4618 Rueda Drive San Diego, CA 92124 sandiegojewishrenewal.org (619) 251-4618 *Shir Ha-Yam community members are welcome to attend High Holy Day services with The Elijah Minyan or any other worship service.

The Elijah Minyan 3207 Cadencia St. La Costa, CA 92009 sandiegojewishrenewal.org

A

(760) 943-8370 *Services will be held at Redeemer Presbyterian Church at 1831 South El Camino Real, Encinitas. Call for ticket prices and reservations. No children’s programming.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 9 a.m. morning service 5 p.m. Taschlich at Moonlight Beach, Encinitas.

Sept. 26: 9 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6:30 p.m. Kol Nidre proceeded by the violin solo of Kol Nidre by Max Bruch performed by Ann Duong of the Orange County Symphony Oct. 4: 9 a.m. morning service 2 p.m. afternoon service 3 p.m. memorial service 7:15 p.m. evening service

HUMANISTIC CONGREGATIONS Kahal Am: The Humanistic Jewish Community of San Diego P.O. Box 927751 San Diego, CA 92192 kahalam.org (858) 549-3088 *Registration and payment required by Sept. 20. Ticket prices are posted online. There is no charge for the children’s celebration.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 7 p.m. evening service in the Encinitas Community Center Sept. 25: 10:30 a.m. Taschlich at San Dieguito County Park near lower entrance Sept. 26: 10 a.m. children’s celebration at Oak Crest Park, Encinitas Yom Kippur: Oct. 4: 5:30 p.m. break the fast at Encinitas Comm. Center

48 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

SEPHARDIC CONGREGATIONS Beth Eliyahu Torah Center 5012 Central Ave., Suite C Bonita, CA 91902 betheliyahu.com (619) 472- 2144 *Call for times and reservation info.

Magen Abraham Sephardic Synagogue Inside Chabad Hebrew Academy in Scripps Ranch 10875 Pomerado Road San Diego, CA 92131 magenabraham.org (619) 277-0380 *Call for times and reservation info.

UNAFFILIATED, POSTDENOMINATIONAL AND ALTERNATIVE SERVICES Chavurah Kol Haneshama Historic Temple Beth Israel 2455 Heritage Park Row in Old Town Contact Rabbi Lauri Coskey at (619) 573-4216 *All are welcome to participate.

Tickets are $200 per adult for both days, $125 for one Holy Day (either Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur) and $50 for children ages 5-17. Scholarships are available.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 24: 6 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 10:30 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 8 p.m. Kol Nidre Oct. 4: 10:30 a.m. morning service 1:30 p.m. conversation with Unitarian Universalist Reverend Dr. Beth Johnson 2:40 p.m. breath and meditation 3:20 p.m. Jewish healing service 4:10 p.m. study session 5 p.m. memorial service

5:45 p.m. evening service Friendship Circle of San Diego friendshipcirclesd.com (858) 487-4879 The Friendship Circle of San Diego will host Holiday services for friends and families of people with disabilities. All services are held at Chabad of Poway. Admission is free but R.S.V.P. is necessary by Sept.

17.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept. 14: 3 p.m. family BBQ at Torrey Hills Park. Cost is $5 per person or $18 per family.

R.S.V.P. at friendshipcircle.com Sept. 25: 11:30 a.m. morning service Sept. 26: 11:30 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 4: 11:30 a.m. morning service Jewish Collaborative of San Diego jcosd.com (760) 707-7111 *The Jewish Collaborative of San Diego is offering free High Holiday services in North County. Locations vary for services and programming is available for children. Call for location info and see the sidebar for more on this new community-focused synagogue.

Rosh Hashanah: Sept 24: 6 p.m. evening service Sept. 25: 11 a.m. morning service Yom Kippur: Oct. 3: 6 p.m. evening service Oct. 4: 11 a.m. morning service A

At Magen David Adom, saving lives is what we do.

Whether the emergency is a rocket attack or a heart attack, the paramedics of Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency medical response and blood-banking agency, save lives in Israel every day. As we enter the new year hoping for peace, we must continue to prepare for routine and terror-related emergencies, replenishing supplies depleted during Operation Protective Edge. If you’re looking to make a difference for Israel and secure the nation’s health and safety for the coming year, there’s no better way than through a gift to MDA. Please give today. Shanah Tovah.

AFMDA Western Region 6505 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 650 Los Angeles, CA 90048 Toll-Free: 800.323.2371 • western@afmda.org www.afmda.org

Support our dog’s Hebrew education!

EXPERIENCE CULTURAL JUDAISM AT

KAHAL AM

Celebrating traditions, values, history, human-centered & empowering

Students Give the Gift of Sight to Israeli Blind

HUMANISTIC HIGH HOLIDAYS

Students are urged to help sponsor a puppy, either as a class Tzedakah Project, or as a Mitzvah Project for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah, to assist blind Israeli veterans and civilians in regaining their lives.

Wed. Sept. 24, 7:00 PM · Erev Rosh Hashana Thur. Sept. 25, 10:30 AM · Tashlikh Sat. Sept. 27, NOON · Children’s HH Celebration Free Sat. Oct. 4, 5:30 PM · Kol Nidre & Yom Kippur + Break Fast EVENING SERVICES: Encinitas Community Center TASHLIKH: San Dieguito County Park, Lower Park, Del Mar CHILDREN’S HH CELEBRATION: Oak Crest Park, Encinitas Members $50 · Guests $65 · Young Adults 16-28 $25 Under 16 Free • RSVP by Sept. 20

For information call

267-927-0205

732 S. Settlers Circle Warrington, PA 18976

KAHAL AM Humanistic JewisH community of san Diego Intercultural & LGBT families welcome

858-549-3088 info@kahalam.org • www.kahalam.org

www.israelguidedog.org

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HIGH HOLIDAYS

High Holidays for the non-conformist Small gatherings pop up in unlikely places

BY TINAMARIE BERNARD

I

nterested in Judaism off the beaten path?

You’re not alone. A growing number of Jews from across the observant and spiritual aisles are looking for alternative ways to worship, connect and find meaning in postdenominational Judaism. Maybe you’re looking for something meditative, contemplative or unconventional. Either way, San Diego is home to two worship groups for the free-spirited Jew. The Jewish Collaborative of San Diego (JCoSD) is a fledgling organization that calls itself a cooperative-inspired, “democratic community with a vision to provide personal and spiritual fulfillment.” Founded by Rabbi Josh Burrows, the former Junior Rabbi at Temple Solel, and his wife Cantor Gabi Arad in May (along with several dedicated lay leaders), the JCoSD is a synagogue without walls for the time being. They host services at members’ homes throughout San Diego, with close to 100 families participating in an average Shabbat worship.

“Attendance has been amazing. People are really connecting to us,” Rabbi Arad says with enthusiasm.

“Involvement is high. We are a synagogue community of the people for the people. We are

starting from the ground level as far as service in concerned.”

Early participation and success may be attributed to their willingness to do things different from the norm. JCoSD programming is, “inspired, designed, written and facilitated by members” through what the synagogue calls cohort groups, which are organized around common interest themes such as the arts, scholarly pursuits, social action, meditation, mindfulness, prayer and healing.

“For example,” Arad says, “our prayer group is building this aspect of worship prayer by prayer.”

A lot of the motivation for JCoSD is an active response to Pew Center research about Jews being disengaged and feeling uninspired.

“We wanted to turn synagogue structure upside down, make it more like a circle,” Arad says. Members are partners and involvement with JCoSD means “you fit yourself into the community by what inspires you.” This is especially useful for Jewish children, teens and young adults.

“We want people to find the things that have meaning for them.”

Check out their calendar for a listing of events

that include High Holiday Services, Erev Shabbat potlucks, Yom Shabbat picnics, Havdalah on the Beach and community workshops at jcosd.com.

An early trend-setter in this synagoguewithout-walls mentality is Chavurah Kol Haneshamah. The community has been hosting Shabbat gatherings, worship services and High Holiday programs in members’ homes since the early 1990s. Rabbi Laurie Coskey is their spiritual guide, and while she’s no stranger to big congregations – she was the Junior Rabbi for eight years at congregation Beth Israel, San Diego’s oldest and largest Jewish congregation – it’s the warm and intimate feel of this Chavurah that has allowed it to stand the test of time.

Rabbi Coskey is known for her outreach, activism and sensitivity to issues of diversity – this is part of what makes the Chavurah endearing to its members in the community at large.

This year’s High Holidays celebrations include traditional worship blended with movement, meditation and interfaith dialogue.

To learn more, contact Marshall Voit at marshall. voit@gmail.com or Rabbi Laurie Coskey at lauriecoskey18@gmail.com. A

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 51

Dress A simple, monochrome dress is understated while stylish. Long sleeves and a high neckline are appropriate for the piety of services, and they can be feminine and flattering at the same time.

Chocolate is a fitting neutral for the occassion. This Michael Kors Logo Plate Matte Jersey Dress is available at Nordstrom for $130.

Hat A cloche hat brings grace and modesty to temple services.

Minimalist but highly fashionable, Isaac Mizrahi’s version in forest green is available on qvc.com for $35.

High Fashion Giving some extra thought in the family wardrobe

BY BRIE STIMSON The High Holidays are a time for atonement, introspection, and prayer. While the focus should be on thoughts loftier than what to wear, it is proper and respectful to dress appropriately for the occasion. High Holiday fashion, with rules, traditions, and expectations, can be difficult to navigate, but with a little time and thought the Holidays can be spent focusing on one’s soul rather than the sole of one’s shoe.

Shoes A lower-heeled wedge gives the effect of a heel with more comfort and stability than a stiletto when standing for a long service. A faux leather upper and synthetic sole keep with Jewish law. Try these CL by Chinese Laundry Nolita patent peep-toe wedges, available at chineselaundry.com for $49.99.

Kippah A superhero or cartoon character embroidered into a kippah will make any kid feel like a High Holiday all-star while getting him excited about attending services. Etsy shop owner Magan Forman handmakes these unique items in Baltimore. They’re available at etsy.com/shop/TheWastedDoctorate for $14.

52 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Suit A wool suit in navy is duly somber for the occasion with the added benefit of being kosher. This two-button wool suit is available at Jos. A. Bank for $495, in store or at josbank.com.

JUDAISM HAS A NEW ADDRESS IN NORTH COUNTY! North County Jewish Center Chabad at La Costa

Join us for an Open House Sunday, September 21st from 1 – 5pm. *Mezuzah Hanging *Refreshments *Music *Dignitaries *Sofer (Ritual Scribe) Demonstration *Bounce House *Clowns *Facepainting *Fun! Fun! Fun for the whole Family!

High Holidays with Family @ NCJC *Joyous, Warm, and Welcoming Atmosphere *Meaningful Service *Uplifting Prayers *Hebrew-English Prayerbooks *Beginners Welcome *Outstanding Cantor – Rabbi Michoel Shapiro *Children’s Service and Activities *Festive Kiddush *Community Rosh Hashanah Dinner *No Tickets or Membership Required *Limited Seating - Reservations Needed

Come and meet your family at North County Jewish Center / Chabad at La Costa. All are welcome – regardless of background or level of observance.

To make reservations for the High Holidays please email us at info@ChabadatLaCosta.com.

Or call us at 760-943-8891.

Visit our website for more information and to see all we can offer you!

Chabad at La Costa under the direction of Rabbi and Rebbetzin Eilfort has been proudly serving the Jewish people of Carlsbad and Encinitas since 1989.

CHABAD at LA COSTA

1980 La Costa Avenue • Carlsbad, CA 92009 760-943-8891 Info@ChabadatLaCosta.com www.ChabadatLaCosta.com Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 53

SAN DIEGO JEWISH ACADEMY

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Meet our teachers, speak with our administrators, and learn from current parents and students what makes SDJA so special.

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At San Diego Jewish Academy we: • Inspire our students to embrace creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial thinking in their learning • Instill in our students a deep understanding and respect for the values and insights of Jewish tradition and a love of Israel that will lead them to live lives of Jewish meaning • Prepare our graduates to be leaders of integrity, social responsibility and architects of change

Learning for life.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

RSVP to admissions@sdja.com or 866-765-7516 The pluralistic community day school

54 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

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Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 55

The Next Step on Your Jewish Journey (Grades 7-12)

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Learn Hebrew after school & free up your schedule for additional electives or activities (Grades 8-12)

• Credit accepted by high schools in San Dieguito Union, Poway Unified & San Diego Unified School Districts • Modern Hebrew conversation, reading & writing • Multiple levels of study available • Mondays 5:45–8:30 pm & first Wednesday monthly 6:30–7:30 pm in conjunction with the Sabra program For more information, contact Rabbi Matthew Earne rabbie@betham.com (858) 481-8454 5050 Del Mar Heights Road | San Diego, CA 92130 | www.betham.com

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HIGH HOLIDAYS

HAPPY NEW YEAR! A story told on a train

BY SHOLEM ALEICHEM, TRANSLATED BY CURT LEVIANT

I

magine, every single one of them up to Mr. Big himself takes bribes. Don’t be shocked now – he accepts them too, if he gets an offer. What’s that? You don’t believe me? You’re all laughing, eh?

Well, have fun....Ready now? Now gather round me, brother Jews, and listen to a story that happened to my grandfather, may he rest in peace, during the good old days when Czar Nich was boss. Why’re you nudging me? What’re you scared of? You think these peasants sitting here know what we’re jabbering about? They won’t understand a word, blast them. I won’t be obvious and where necessary I’ll throw in some Hebrew. Just pay close attention and don’t interrupt me.

This happened during the reign of our present Mr. Big’s grandfather, after whom he’s named. Our fathers and grandfathers couldn’t forget that old Mr. Big for all the fine and dandy things he let loose against us. In short, their whole life hung on a thread. We existed just by the grace of little Mr. Big, or Buttons, as we called him, who ruled every shtetl. This Buttons liked to have his palms greased, and loved gefilte fish and whiskey. So

long as this went on, the Jews breathed free and easy.

Then our Buttons kicked the bucket and was followed by a new Buttons, a Haman, a rat. He just couldn’t be greased! Not even with big money. He wouldn’t go for gefilte fish. He didn’t drink. He was as clean as a whistle! He gave summonses and fines. Didn’t let Jews do business or let Jewish teachers teach. If he saw a young woman, he’d rip off her marriage wig; a young man, he’d snip off an earlock.

“That’s what Mr. Big does, too,” he used to say. This made the Jews seethe with anger. After pondering how to get rid of such a Haman, the devil take him, they went to my grandfather. “Reb Anshel, save the town!

Tell us what to do.”

My grandfather listened and said he would go and see his rebbe.

“We’ll do whatever he suggests.”

Grandfather Anshel then got into his carriage one hot summer day and told the rebbe the whole story.

“It’s horrible. We have a man whose hands are clean.”

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 57

HIGH HOLIDAYS

A minute later the rebbe called out: “May you be inscribed for a year of health.”

This astounded my grandfather. It was summer and Rosh Hashanah was a long way off.

“Listen, Anshel. Tell your shtetl I’ve wished them a good year. When the big fair comes, buy a pair of horses. The best money can buy. Full-blooded roans, completely spotless. Then hitch them to a fine carriage and drive them to that city where Mr. Big makes his home. It starts with the letter P. Drive around the palace, like a lord who’s out for a pleasure ride. If anyone asks you to buy them, say you’re not a horse-dealer...Now Anshel,” the rebbe concluded, “go home and may G-d grant you success.”

When the big fair came, my grandfather bought a pair of spotless full-blooded roans from a gypsy, who asked for a fortune. But this was a matter of life and death. The town had to be saved. The Jews had pawned everything they had. My grandfather bought the horses, hitched them to a carriage, and left immediately. He and the horses arrived in P about a month before Rosh Hashanah.

To make a long story short, as my grandfather drove around the palace one day, he saw Buttons approaching. He stopped my grandfather and inspected the horses from all angles, like one who understood horse flesh.

“Listen here, you, how much do you want for these horses?”

Exactly what the rebbe said would happen. Reb Anshel’s heart leaped a bit, and he answered as he was commanded: “I’m not a horse-dealer.”

Buttons looked angrily at him. “How do you come to such fine horses?”

58 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

This time grandfather was quiet. He didn’t know what to say, because the rebbe hadn’t mentioned a question of that sort. Infuriated now, Buttons said: “Perhaps you’ve stolen them, huh?”

At this, grandfather’s heart sank; he couldn’t say a word. Finally, G-d inspired him with: “Sir! These horses are mine. I bought them from a gypsy at a fair. I have witnesses. A whole town full of Jews.”

“So you have witnesses, huh?” Buttons said. “I know your sort of witnesses....You know, the Czar likes your horses.”

“What’s the drawback?” said grandfather. “If he likes the horses, then my horses can be his horses.”

Don’t ask how Reb Anshel hit upon an idea like that. If it’s fated, G-d gives you bright ideas. Well, they took the horses’ reins, and led them right into the courtyard and showed them to Mr. Big himself. As soon as he saw the horses, he couldn’t leave them. Some sort of mystic power was in those animals. He fell in love with them at first sight and showed them off to his entire court. Meanwhile, Grandfather Anshel was watching silently. He recognized Mr. Big immediately from his pictures. But it didn’t phase him at all. He was just a man, like the rest of them. Then Mr. Big approached grandfather. And as soon as he looked at grandfather, a chill ran through his bones. And when he spoke with his lion’s voice, grandfather’s heart froze.

“How much do you want for those horses?” Mr. Big asked Anshel.

Grandfather could hardly speak. His mouth was dry, and he felt his voice shaking:

HIGH HOLIDAYS

“I don’t sell horses. But if His Majesty has taken a liking to the horses, let the horses be led into His Majesty’s stables. That’s where they belong.”

When Mr. Big moved closer to Reb Anshel and continued talking to him, my grandfather practically turned into a heap of bones.

“Listen here. Perhaps you want some special favor. If you do, tell me right now with no bluffs, tricks, flim-flam, or long-winded Jewish commentary.

For if you do, it’ll cost you dearly.”

Well, my dear friends, what went through Grandfather Anshel’s mind at that time? Since Reb Anshel was a brave man, he plucked up his courage and told Mr. Big: “Your Majesty! King! I swear I’m not the sort who likes to bluff or trick anyone. I don’t ask a thing of His Majesty. But I would consider it an honor if I could be worthy of having my horses in His Majesty’s stables and if His Majesty would ride them.”

Naturally, Mr. Big was moved by these words. Now he spoke softly. His manner changed. He was a new man. Then the Czar left the courtyard and headed for the palace – with grandfather Anshel trailing behind him.

It didn’t phase him a bit, but his knees shook and his heart ticked like a grandfather clock. Can you imagine – being in the Czar’s palace! Wherever you looked, only silver and gold.

Then Mr. Big sat down and asked grandfather to have a seat too. He offered Grandfather a cigar. In the meantime, she came in – the Czarina herself, draped in satin and silk and covered with diamonds. She was as beautiful as the Queen of Sheba. Seeing a Jew in the king’s company, comfortable and smoking a cigar, she naturally became very angry and looked very sternly at

him, as if to say: What’s Can you imagine – being in this Jew doing here?

But by now, the Czar’s palace! Wherever you Grandfather Anshel had looked, only silver and gold. become high and mighty.

He continued smoking and didn’t even glance at her. But she kept looking daggers his way, which Mr. Big ignored.

“Dushinka, how about some tea?” he told the Czarina cheerfully.

She remained silent.

The Czar repeated: “Dushinka. Tea!” Again, she remained silent.

Now the Czar didn’t delay, but stamped his foot and roared at the top of his voice: “Dushinka! Tea!” The window panes shook. It was nothing to sneeze at. Treason, you know....In a flash a boiling samovar and boiled eggs were ordered, for the Czar knew that a pious Jew would not touch anything but boiled eggs. The Czar asked him to eat and drink and make himself at home. By and by, he asked grandfather in friendly fashion how he earned his living, and how the Jews of his region were doing. At this Grandfather thought: Now’s the time to bring up the subject. Well, he told Mr. Big everything – and Reb Anshel had just the tongue for it.

“Here’s the whole story, Your Majesty. Your Jews have no complaints.

But if His Majesty is in a good mood, I shall tell you the whole truth. The Jews live by grace of Buttons. If he’s just a regular Buttons, it’s fine and Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 59

HIGH HOLIDAYS

dandy. But if, G-d forbid, he isn’t, then there’s trouble. Not long ago, a new Buttons came into our shtetl – clean as a whistle! And because of that, we’re at the end of our rope! There’s no one like him in Your Majesty’s entire realm. That a Buttons be incorruptible is something unheard of. It’s the 11th plague!”

Mr. Big looked at him and said: “I haven’t got the faintest notion what you’re talking about. What do you mean by ‘clean as a whistle?’ And what do you mean by a ‘Buttons’?”

“By clean as a whistle,” Grandfather said, “I mean a man whose palms won’t be greased. By Buttons, I mean a little Mr. Big whom you appoint to watch over every little town. Well, Buttons watches those towns and in a few years becomes very rich. Who from? The Jews, of course. They’ve gotten used to it. Because just as Jews know they must pray every morning, they also know that an official must take, and a Jew must give. Like in our holy books. We always kept giving – for sacrifices, for the Temple, here, there. You’ve been so kind to your servant until now, so please hear him out.

“I want you to know, Your Majesty, that your whole kingdom, from east to west, from north to south, is filled with takers. The only ones whose palms you can’t grease are cripples who have no hands. And even someone with no hands will tell you to slap it down on the table. There’s nothing wrong with that either. You have to live and let live. The Bible tells us to get 60 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

along with our neighbor. So our commentator, Rashi, says – but if his dog barks, muzzle him.”

Why are you men looking at me? Strange, right, that a Jew should talk this way to a king? Well, take it or leave it. I wasn’t there – that any child will understand. But this is the story that my father – may he rest in peace, heard from his father. And I assure you that neither my father nor my grandfather Anshel were liars. After that, my grandfather said goodbye to the Czar and went straight to the rebbe, reporting back on his trip.

Now listen to this. On Rosh Hashanah night, when the Jews were leaving the synagogues and wishing each other gut yontef, a year of peace and good health – a rumor flashed through town that our Buttons, our Haman, may he shrivel up, had been fired, and in his place the authorities up-on-high had sent a new little Mr. Big, a man clever and wise, good and kind – in short, a jewel of a gentile, a regular Buttons. He took. He was a taker! But he had one flaw. He had a mighty dry palm. It had to be greased good and heavy.

But the upshot was that the Jews had a happy Rosh Hashanah and an even happier Sukkot. Don’t even ask about Simkhas Torah! Even the new Buttons himself had a few drops and danced with the Jews. Well, it looks like we’ve arrived at our station. Be well. A

LA SHANA

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San Diego Port Commissioner/ Candidate, 52nd Congressional District

While on the City Council, I was honored to work with you on La Jolla Hillel and the construction of eruvs in the College Area, La Jolla and University City.

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www.ScottPeters.com Paid for Scott Peters for Congress 4715 Viewridge Ave, Ste 150 San Diego, CA 92123.

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 61

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62 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

COVER STORY

A TALE OF TWO SOLDIERS

Small but growing numbers of San Diegans join the Israel Defense Forces

PHOTO COURTESY FIDF

BY NATALIE JACOBS

IDF soldiers take instructions in Gaza in July, 2014.

I

t was 2007 and Mike Dolinka was graduating from San Diego State with a degree in history with an emphasis on the Middle East. He had been a member of the global Jewish fraternity Alpha Epsilon Pi and prior to that, a member of the first graduating class at the San Diego Jewish Academy. He had spent five weeks in Israel as a senior in high school and later a year in Jerusalem as a junior in college. As a 23-year-old with a B.A., standing at a fork in the road, Dolinka made the decision to join the Israel Defense Forces and make aliyah. Now, six years later, it’s still hard to concisely answer the question of why but there’s no doubt in Dolinka’s mind that it was the right decision.

“I made really wonderful friends [in Israel]

and when I graduated, I really felt the duty to give back,” he says over the phone from his desk at the ADL San Diego offices where he is Associate Regional Director researching domestic extremists. “I wasn’t able to financially [support Israel at the time] but I felt that I’d be very good at the military.”

With that in mind, Dolinka joined the Garin Tzabar, or the Israeli scouts, a feeder program for soon-to-be Lone Soldiers in the IDF. By 2008 and Israel’s Operation Cast Lead in Gaza, Dolinka was a full-fledged soldier. His unit specialized in Lebanon but, as with this latest operation, all troops were pointed to Gaza. Dolinka’s unit, which contained 25 Lone Soldiers out of 500, was called to secure the borders between Gaza

and Israel after the rocket fire and bombings had calmed. Dolinka’s job was to drive around the desert in armored D-9 tractors looking for IEDs, hoping to blow them up on purpose before anyone ran across them by accident. After that, Dolinka and his unit went back to their post at the Lebanon border where he served until 2012.

“It’s a difficult thing,” he says of the IDF, “you have to go through hard times, but it’s 99 percent boredom with one percent crazy action. That can be difficult. You’re going through a whole lot, but I think as a Lone Soldier, most of us felt dedicated to protect the Jewish homeland.

“I know for me personally,” he continues, “knowing that there’s a place for Jews to go if, G-d forbid, anything ever happened in the world, Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 63

COVER STORY

The wife of IDF reservist Yair Ashkenazi, who was killed during combat in the northern Gaza strip, cries on her husband's coffin, July 25, 2014.

SUPPORTING SOLDIERS

PHOTO BY FLASH 90 FOR JTA

The Friends of the Israel Defense Forces supports the IDF, including Lone Soldiers, through its headquarters in New York City and regional offices around the United States. Since the beginning of Operation Protective Edge, the San Diego chapter of FIDF has been working with local organizations to raise money for the IDF and the Lone Soldiers from the San Diego region. Some recent fundraising projects include:

it was very important for me to protect that.”

In 2012, history was on its way to repeating itself, in more ways than one. Operation Returning Echo was underway in Gaza and another Jewish Academy graduate decided to become an IDF soldier.

Noam Baltinester drafted in Nov. 2012 at the age of 18. Unlike Dolinka who had no family bloodlines tying him directly to Israel, Baltinester was born there. His parents are Israelis who immigrated to the United States when Noam was four.

“Ever since I can remember, I wanted to enlist,” Baltinester says in a text over WhatsApp from Tel Aviv. “I never knew when but I knew at some point in my life I would. I’ve always been in love with Israel and every chance I got to support it, I did.

Whether it was rallies or AIPAC or anything else, I took part.”

Since he identifies as an Israeli, joining the military felt even more like a duty. Had he grown up there, he would be in the military anyway, only this way he did it by choice.

“Hundreds of thousands of people before me fought for me to have this country [Israel] to live 64 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

in,” he says. “They put their lives on the line so now it’s time for me to return the favor for them. So they can continue living here in peace and that those after me can have the opportunity to do the same.

“At the end of the day,” he continues, “it comes down to the fact that I want to serve. Not in a military sense, but in a general sense, to give my service to the State of Israel and its citizens. The best way I could think of was through drafting into the highest possible unit I could.”

After also going through the Garin Tzabar scouting program with other young Americans from Southern California and Nevada, Baltinester enlisted into the Golani Brigade. This elite and storied infantry unit has been in the news lately for the casualties it suffered in Operation Protective Edge, particularly that of Lone Soldier Max Steinberg, from Encino, Calif., in July. There are three other Lone Soldiers in Baltinester’s unit, one from Los Angeles, one from Paris and one from Ukraine.

Given that the training for this brigade is 14 months long, Baltinester isn’t yet an official soldier so he wasn’t fighting on the front lines of this conflict but he did guard posts along the Gaza

• Congregation Beth Jacob recently raised a few thousand dollars to send care packages to IDF soldiers fighting in Gaza.

• San Diego Jewish Academy spent an afternoon writing letters to soldiers and raised $20,000 to support Lone Soldier SDJA alumni.

• FIDF’s young leadership group hosted a party for more than 200 young professionals in which they raised $5,000 for FIDF support programs.

Fundraising continues at this year’s FIDF Gala with IDF Chief Cantor Lt. Col. Shai Abramson on Oct. 28 at the Balboa Theatre. Visit fidf.org/sandiego for tickets and more info.

COVER STORY

PHOTO BY FLASH 90 FOR JTA

Israeli tanks travel to Gaza in July, 2014.

border. When we speak through text message, it’s day two of the second 72-hour ceasefire and Baltinester’s unit has been called back to training in Tel Aviv.

Though both Dolinka and Baltinester felt a strong call to serve and protect their people, neither had ever considered joining the U.S. military.

“I felt this tug being a Jewish person and having been to Israel that my defense of a homeland was going to be there,” Dolinka says.

“Part of my reasoning was when I was defending the homeland there, when you’re doing stuff on the border in Gaza or in Gaza, you’re literally just hundreds of meters away from a kibbutz. What you’re protecting is right there, you can see it. I think sometimes in the American military that can be difficult when you don’t tangibly see what you’re protecting.”

Yoram Baltinester, Noam’s father, echoes that sentiment on behalf of his son.

“We’re an Israeli family,” he says. “We happen to live here [in the U.S.]. We’re also Americans.

Being an Israeli means a whole lot of different things than being an American when your

country is under attack. When America is under attack, it is typically fought elsewhere in the world. When Israel is under attack, it is right there and then.”

When they’re in Israel, Lone Soldiers are face-to-face with the threats to their ancestral homeland. But they’re also very far away from their personal homes and families, just like those Americans who serve the U.S. military stationed in Iraq or Afghanistan. When Lone Soldiers are given leave, they can’t just drive two hours to have their laundry washed and Shabbat dinner cooked like the Israelis in their units. There are many programs supported by the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) to make Lone Soldiers comfortable, but it’s impossible not to feel very far away from home sometimes. That’s what both Dolinka and Baltinester say is the hardest part. More than training or combat, it’s being alone during the down time that requires the most strength.

And then there are the parents who are left with weekly phone calls at odd hours and 24hour news reports as constant reminders that their children are in danger.

"What you’re protecting is right there, you can see it. I think sometimes in the American military that can be difficult when you don’t tangibly see what you’re protecting."

“When your child goes to the military in a foreign country, you don’t want to watch the news anymore,” Dolinka says. “You don’t want to know what’s going on. That was the difficult part for [my parents]. But I think that they were definitely proud of what I had done.”

Dolinka’s parents were proud, but they were also nervous. His dad had never been to Israel while his mom had only visited once in the ’70s. As former IDF soldiers themselves, Noam’s parents, Yoram and Shifra, were initially concerned about his decision to enlist precisely because they have an understanding of Israel and its military.

Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 65

GRAPHIC COURTESY FIDF

COVER STORY

“My military experience has been, personally, a waste of three years of my life,” Yoram says. “I know that this is not representative. But to me, it was like, [Noam] you are taking a big chance with three important years of your life, why would you want to do that by choice?”

“I didn’t like the fact that he wanted to join the army,” Shifra says, “because as a mom, I want him next to me. I want him in this area. I want him part of our life. However, looking back, I know that if I was in his situation I would do the same. … And once I realized I cannot change his mind, I helped him in every way I could.”

After his initial response to his son’s decision, Yoram came around too.

“When I look at Noam,” he says, “I look at him with pride. It’s not because he became a soldier or because he chose to serve in the army in Israel.

But that gave him an opportunity to make a life statement as a grown-up and as a human being.

That is what I look at with pride. Surely we’re all concerned for his safety … but I think that’s one of the most outstanding statements that he could have made. And obviously we support him.”

Noam was in Garin Tzabar with two other 66 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

San Diegans and SDJA alumni who also went on to enlist in the IDF. While it’s difficult to get an exact number of San Diego’s Lone Soldiers, Nir Benzvi, Executive Director for FIDF’s San Diego and Orange County chapters, estimates that there are currently about 20 young San Diegans serving in Israel. This is a sharp increase from the 3-5 Lone Soldiers from San Diego in 2010, when Benzvi began working with the organization.

On the whole, the numbers of Lone Soldiers from throughout the world are rising too. At any given time, there are an average of 2,800 Lone Soldiers in the IDF, with about 950 new ones joining each year.

“Once you’ve gone through something like [the IDF],” Mike Dolinka says, “I think everything else in life doesn’t seem quite as difficult. When you know that you’ve survived different situations, you’ve been able to go through extremely grueling physical and mental tasks, you just come out with this kind of confidence that you can succeed at whatever life throws at you.” A

In addition to the SDJA alumni, which include Ori Bogomolie and Yuval Samuel, other local Jewish high schools have contributed high numbers of alumni to the IDF. Those currently serving are: SCY High • Sagi Hebron • Yair Ruddick • Ariel Feifel • Aaron Alpert • Udi Greenboim • Ethan Gipsman (recently discharged) Torah High • Maor Rudick • Natania Feifel • Shir Hebron • Hanna Moyal • Sarin Mizon • Rami Diamond

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Save the date

Community/International Shabbat

October 23/24/25, 2014 Experience the excitement

and physical, emotional and spiritual restorative powers of celebrating Shabbat with more than 170 cities worldwide. Across denominations.

Huge community and congregational events planned. Stay tuned.

Learn more at shabbossandiego.org 68 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Jewish Family Service Earned Charity Navigator’s Highest Rating for the

7th Year in a Row

2008 • 2009 • 2010 • 2011 • 2012 • 2013 • 2014 Just 2% of nonprofits nationwide have achieved such high standards of sound fiscal management, accountability, and transparency year after year.

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Elul 5774•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 69

FEATURE STORY

WOMEN’S RETREAT: Antidote for the busy and the weary

Each year, 70-90 women find respite at Camp Mountain Chai.

“Raquel: A Marked Woman” This year, organizers hope for record attendance.

B

ombarded with too much to do?

Overwhelmed by the sounds of work, traffic, whining children or demanding bosses? Unaccustomed to the sounds of nature or that small, still voice inside? It may be time for you to retreat to the local mountains to open up your heart and spend a Shabbat doing what Jewish women have done for millennia: connect.

Judaism is ripe with examples of leaving everything that is familiar to venture into the unknown, Cantor and Rabbi Gabi Arad says.

Arad will be the new spiritual director for the eight-annual Women’s Retreat at Camp Mountain Chai this Oct. 24-26. Abraham did it.

Moses did it. And it turns out, Lilith and Eve did it too, she says.

Arad explains that though modern living may not encourage sisterly as in the past, it is part of our heritage as Jewish women.

“We have only to turn to a Midrash coined by Judith Plaskow called the ‘Coming of Lilith,’ a story from the 1992 publication, ‘Four Centuries of Jewish Women’s Spirituality: A Sourcebook’ to 70 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

understand more,” she says.

“My favorite part describes the first meeting between Eve and Lilith outside the walls of the Garden of Eden.”

Plaskow, who imagines what might have happened if Lilith and Eve met, writes: “One day, after many months of strange and disturbing thoughts, Eve, wandering around the edge of the garden, noticed a young apple tree she and Adam had planted, and saw that one of its branches stretched over the garden wall. Spontaneously, she tried to climb it, and, struggling to the top, swung herself over the wall.

She did not wander long on the other side before she met the one she had come to find, for Lilith was waiting. At first sight of her, Eve remembered the tales of Adam and was frightened, but Lilith understood and greeted her kindly. ‘Who are you?’ they asked each other, ‘What is your story?’ And they sat and spoke together of the past and then of the future. They talked for many hours, not once, but many times.

They taught each other many things, and told

PHOTOS BY LISA BIALAC

BY TINAMARIE BERNARD

each other stories, and laughed together, and cried, over and over, till the bond of sisterhood grew between them.”

This may be a fictional retelling, but it opens up lots of questions about the connections women can and should make. And if the bond goes so deep, why is it so difficult for women in general, and Jewish women in particular, to make time for each other? Part of the reason is that our “history doesn’t always include the female voice,” explains Arad who adds that “the gathering of Jewish women could not be more valuable. For thousands of years, we have cried together, laughed together, prayed together, and, most importantly, marked our place in Jewish tradition together.”

Understandably, modern living demands a lot from women who too seldom take the time to remove themselves from these responsibilities, if only for a moment. It’s not just about putting down your smart phone, or setting aside the todo list.

It’s about being too good at saying, “Yes,” to

FEATURE STORY Last year's retreat group connects, physicially and spiritually, in a pristine natural setting.

everyone else and repeatedly saying “No” to their own needs.

Selfishness isn’t all bad though. It has a place in the form of self-love and self-care. True, it can seem especially hard to take this stance but if you were in a plane and oxygen masks suddenly dropped down from the ceiling, you know what those instructions are: “Put on your own oxygen mask first.”

Think of Camp Mountain Chai’s women’s retreat like that – the much-needed oxygen, that breath of fresh air for women and a shabbaton weekend that Arad says is a “link in the chain of centuries of Jewish sisterhood.”

Now in its eighth year, the retreat organizers are shaking things up this time around.

Rather than a conference-like setting where women attend sessions on different topics, the overall experience will emphasize having fun and building connections with one another, explains Diana Davidson Lerner, co-chair with Lisa Bialac of the Women’s Retreat. In between Shabbat dinner, Shabbat morning services and morning yoga (with the popular Lee Fowler Schwimmer of Jewish Soul Yoga), women will have “Shaboptions.”

“We encourage women to ‘choose their adventure,’” Lerner says. “Some want to go for an early morning hike, take a Zumba class, and do Israeli dancing, while others may want a more spiritual experience with yoga, Torah study and meditation. It’s not unusual for women to bond over a game or when making s’mores and singing by the campfire. Women can expect comfortable accommodations and wonderful kosher food.”

Rabbi Arad also hinted at plans for lighthearted competitive fun to get out of the rut of the sedate and the sedentary.

“We want women to play for the weekend!

Really let their inner child out and even get out of their comfort zones a bit. When we are children, we are carefree. We don’t have responsibilities.

This weekend is about returning to that sense of freedom, joy and play.”

This year, camp falls on a Rosh Chodesh weekend. To honor the new moon, Rabbi Arad will lead the women in a “moon ceremony infused with Kabbalah,” and afterward, women will be given a gift as a “reminder of the intentions they set for themselves on the retreat weekend.”

While nature-based contemplative Jewish rituals may seem unfamiliar to many Jewish

women, it’s part of Judaism’s more ancient traditions, Arad says.

Camp Mountain Chai is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself and find purpose and clarity. All who have been to the campgrounds in Angelus Oaks, Calif., agree that the wooded setting is exceptional. Upon arrival, women “feel the magic of Camp Mountain Chai,” Lerner says. When attendees stop and breathe the fresh air and look at the sprawling mountains, there is an overwhelming feeling that they are “blessed to be in such a wonderful place that empowers [women] on so many levels.

“During the past seven years, I have made lifelong friends, some of whom I’m only able to connect with at the [retreat] weekend, and that, for me, is truly special. I loved camp as a kid, and appreciate it even more as an adult!”

The eighth annual Women’s Weekend Retreat is Friday, Oct. 24-Sunday, Oct. 26. The $250 registration fee includes lodging, food and all activities. To learn more and register, follow the link at campmountainchai.com/programs/yearround-events. A

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 71

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Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 73

FEATURE STORY

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE GETS JEWISH CAUCUS Group started by San Diego’s own Senator Marty Block

BY NATALIE JACOBS

California's state legislature in Sacramento.

T

he California state legislature’s first ethnic caucus was the Black Caucus which formed in 1967. A handful of years later, in 1973, the Latino Caucus formed. It wasn’t again until 2001 that California received another ethnic caucus, this time for legislators of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. Only a year later, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Caucus was created. The Jewish Caucus, which launched in January of this year, is the newest group on the caucus block and it has already had a lot of work to do.

As a bipartisan group, the Jewish Caucus is hoping to create and maintain a strong Jewish voice in the California legislature. Senator Marty Block, of District 39, which reaches up to Solana Beach, out to San Carlos and down to Coronado, decided to start the Jewish Caucus after he became chair of 2008’s Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony. Serving as the chair mostly means being the chief fundraiser for the large event and the inefficiency of last-minute fundraising made 74 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

Block think there might be a better way.

“It seemed to me there should be a standard group of people,” Senator Block says, “a standing caucus, something that is there to make sure that the Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony is institutionalized and that we’re ready to do it and are funded to do it every year.”

As there are no caucuses based on religion, Block explains that the Jewish Caucus is based on Jewish-ness as an ethnicity and a common culture. With that, the only qualification to join the Jewish Caucus is that the legislator selfidentify as a Jew. There are currently nine Jewish members and three non-Jewish members (the non-Jewish members come to meetings but cannot vote).

“At present,” Block says, “we have five Jewish senators and four Jewish assembly members.

Among the five Jewish senators is included Darrell Steinberg, who is President of the Senate.”

Caucus activities kicked off at January’s Martin Luther King Day celebrations in Sacramento.

“There has been a lot of Jewish involvement in the civil rights movement,” Block explains, “and we [the Jewish Caucus] want to remind people of that.”

In March, the Caucus was invited to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between California’s Governor Jerry Brown and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In it, the two agree to more cooperation between California and Israel on a variety of issues including biotech, water and security. After it was signed, Block authored, and all Jewish Caucus members signed, a resolution for the legislature, pledging support in the Assembly for the MOU. “We think this Memorandum of Understanding and the resolution, they tell people you might have these fringe groups that are trying to boycott, there are these groups on campus, but California is firmly stating that we’re open for business with Israel.”

Shortly after the Caucus was formed, it came out that the Rialto School District, located

FEATURE STORY

L-R: Assemblymember Marc Levine, Assemblymember Richard Bloom, Speaker Emeritus John A. Pérez, Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson, Senator Marty Block, Senator Lois Wolk, Assemblymember Steve Fox, Senator Mark Leno, Assemblymember José Medina. NOT PICTURED: Assemblymembers Adrin Nazarian, Bonnie Lowenthal and Senate President Darrell Steinberg. just north of Riverside, Calif., had sanctioned an assignment whereby eighth-grade students were asked to write persuasive essays examining whether or not the Holocaust really occurred.

The state senator for the Rialto area, Norma Torres, brought the issue up to Senator Block and the Caucus investigated.

“We found out that it wasn’t just one teacher who was giving an assignment, it was in fact the entire school district, that there was a committee of teachers and administrators that came up with the assignment,” Block says.

The Caucus obtained a copy of the assignment, which asked: “Do you think the Holocaust was real or do you think it was staged by the Jews to gain more money and political power?”

The legislative group then wrote a letter to the school district demanding that it retract the assignment. It had already been assigned to some students, but the school district did eventually cancel the assignment and told students who had not yet completed it that they were no longer required to do so.

“For school districts,” Block explains, “if we the legislature take a position like this, they will pay more attention than just to the ADL or the Museum of Tolerance. ... We control the budget of the school district. When a senator and assembly members say this is not acceptable, it carries with it a threat that funding will be cut next year.”

In addition to the letter, the Jewish Caucus helped to coordinate a series of Holocaust education efforts for the Rialto school district with the ADL and the Museum of Tolerance.

As part of these efforts, a group of Holocaust survivors spoke at a Rialto School District board meeting and students were sent on a field trip to the Museum of Tolerance. The district also agreed to assign Elie Wiesel’s “Night” to its ninth graders next year.

Senator Block notes that the Jewish Caucus will continue to keep its eyes on these sorts of issues for California. The group is also endorsing candidates in a handful of races around the state.

Another big goal of the group is to encourage

more Jews to get involved in politics and to run for office.

“The state has been fairly well represented by Jews in terms of Diane Feinstein and Barbara Boxer and Darrell Steinberg being the head of the Senate,” Block says, “but time is running out for all of them. ... So we want to encourage more Jews to get involved.”

To do that, Block and the Jewish Caucus will welcome young leadership groups to Sacramento for a behind-the-scenes look at how California’s government works. Starting next year, the group will also host an annual award recognizing outstanding Jewish Californians, as do the other caucuses for their respective constituencies.

“You talk about the LGBT community, so many members of the community being closeted for so many years and now feeling the freedom and speaking out and talking about differences, to some extent, the Jewish community has chosen to be somewhat closeted and now I think we’re seeing people in legislative groups speaking out.” A Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 75

76 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

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in the kitchen WITH

TORI AVEY

POMEGRANATE GLAZED SALMON

Tori Avey is an awardwinning food writer, recipe developer, and the creator of the popular cooking website toriavey.com.

She writes about food history for PBS Food and Parade. com. Follow Tori on Facebook by searching for “Tori Avey” and on Twitter: @toriavey.

Whenever Rosh Hashanah rolls around, my mind wanders to pomegranate molasses. I absolutely love this condiment and I’m always looking for new ways to use it. Pomegranate is usually eaten on the second night of Rosh Hashanah to represent “new fruit” – a fruit that has just come into season, one that we haven’t yet enjoyed during the year. Pomegranates are mentioned several times in the Torah; it is said that each pomegranate contains 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) found in the Torah. The pomegranate also reminds us that in the coming year, our good deeds should be as plentiful as the fertile seeds of this beautiful fruit. The layered symbolism and rich, robust flavor makes pomegranates one of my favorite holiday ingredients.

Pomegranate molasses (also known as pomegranate syrup) is made throughout the Middle East in countries like Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. Traditionally, the molasses is made by reducing pomegranate juice into a thickened syrup, with natural fruit sugars eventually thickening the sauce. In some areas, sugar is added as a preservative and to counteract the natural tartness of the pomegranate fruit; sugar also helps the syrup to reduce and thicken more quickly. Lemon juice is often added as an acidic preservative to increase shelf life. The amount of sugar varies by region; for example, Iranian (Persian) pomegranate syrup tends to be sweeter than the Lebanese variety.

I vastly prefer homemade pomegranate molasses to the bottled stuff. Making it at home is simple and it allows me to adjust the sweetness level to my liking. I add both sugar and lemon to both preserve and sweeten.

Adding the sugar and lemon juice keeps the molasses fresh longer and gives it a nice sweet/tart balance. I like my molasses on the sweeter side. For a more tart pomegranate molasses with a shorter shelf life, you can simply reduce pomegranate juice on its own with no added ingredients. It will take longer to reduce, and you’ll need to watch it carefully to make sure it doesn’t

78 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

start to burn. There’s a thin line between thickened and burned…and if you thicken it too much, you’ll end up with a solid piece when it cools.

Once you’ve whipped up a batch of pomegranate molasses, the possibilities are endless! Use it as topping for desserts like ice cream, as a meat marinade, in sauces and salad dressings. You can get creative with it, the flavor is really rich and unique.

One of my favorite ways to prepare salmon for Rosh Hashanah is with a pomegranate molasses glaze. I sear the salmon, glaze it, and finish it in a moderately hot oven. The pomegranate molasses combines with the salted brown sugar crust, caramelizing and infusing the salmon with a wonderful teriyaki-like flavor. Make sure you use homemade pomegranate molasses (recipe below) rather than bottled for best results. Garnish it with pomegranate seeds and fresh mint for a beautiful holiday presentation.

POMEGRANATE GLAZED SALMON 4 boneless salmon fillets, skin on 2 tsp brown sugar ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp cornstarch or potato starch Black pepper ¼ cup homemade pomegranate molasses (recipe below), room temperature Nonstick cooking oil spray Fresh pomegranate seeds and mint for garnish (optional) You will also need: Large nonstick oven safe skillet, or any nonstick skillet and a baking sheet Total Time: 20 min.

Servings: 4 Kosher Key: Pareve

PHOTOS BY TORI AVEY

Place rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 300 degrees F. If you don’t have an oven-safe nonstick skillet (no plastic handle, heat resistant) lightly grease a baking sheet and set aside. Rinse the fish fillets in cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, salt, and corn or potato starch. Rub the flesh side of the fillets evenly with the brown sugar mixture. Sprinkle the fillets lightly with black pepper.

Spray nonstick skillet generously with cooking oil and heat on medium high till very hot. Place the fillets skin side up, flesh side down into the skillet and allow to sear for 1-2 minutes till a dark crust forms. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan – this will make the fillets difficult to turn. If the pan seems too crowded, work in batches.

When a dark crust has formed (it should be crispy and even a little black in places), use a pair of tongs to gently turn the salmon and let the skin side sear for another minute. Remove skillet from heat. At this point, if your skillet is oven safe, you can finish the fillets directly in the pan. If you don’t have an oven-safe nonstick skillet, transfer the fillets to the lightly greased baking sheet without turning them (skin side down). Brush each fillet with 1 tbsp of pomegranate molasses, then transfer fillets to the preheated oven and let them cook for 8-12 minutes longer, till internal temperature reaches 125 degrees F or until desired doneness. Serve fillets fresh from the oven garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds and fresh mint, if desired.

Note: If you are cooking a lot of salmon for several guests, sear your salmon fillets in batches in the skillet, then transfer them to a non-preheated, lightly greased baking sheet for finishing in the oven. To start your fillets ahead of time, sear them and place them on a baking tray up to one hour before your meal time. Glaze and finish them in the oven just before serving – it takes only 10 minutes or so to finish the fillets. If you make this recipe for Passover, you can easily make it kosher for the holiday by using potato starch instead of cornstarch.

POMEGRANATE MOLASSES 4 cups pure 100 percent pomegranate juice (bottled or fresh) 2/3 cup sugar 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Total Time: 60-80 min.

Servings: About 1 cup of pomegranate molasses Kosher Key: Pareve Pour pomegranate juice, sugar, and lemon juice into a small saucepan. Heat up over medium until the sauce begins to simmer lightly. Stir to dissolve sugar. Allow the liquid to simmer very lightly for 60-80 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, till the liquid reduces by 75 percent to about 1 cup of molasses. The liquid is ready when it has a light syrupy consistency and coats the back of a spoon. Don’t let it thicken too much, or it will harden when it cools.

Remove from heat. The syrup will continue to thicken as it cools. If you’re unsure about the consistency, measure the reduced liquid – it should be between 1 and 1 ¼ cups of syrup. If it’s a lot more liquid than that, continue reducing. After the syrup cools completely, store it in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to four weeks. A

IKWTA Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 79

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OP-ED

BOYCOTT, DIVEST, SANCTION A dangerous game

BY MICHAEL HAYUTIN

B

DS describes the tactics employed by members of a movement whose goal is to penalize and isolate one particular nation. One might think this effort would be directed at a nation whose policies are unjust and discriminatory. A good candidate might be Saudi Arabia where legal authorities carried out no less than 47 beheadings in 2013. They also enforce their primitive style of justice by chopping off the hands of those accused of theft. Or maybe this international movement would single out Egypt, where a 2008 Demographic Health Survey reported a rate of 91 percent of females aged 15-49 had suffered genital mutilation.

Better yet, boycott, divest and sanction Iraq, Mauritania, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Northern Nigeria, Aceh Indonesia, and Pakistan where stoning is practiced as an execution technique for a variety of “crimes” as part of Islamic tradition.

And what about Gaza, where Hamas terrorists place themselves among civilians, in Mosques and hospitals to fire rockets into Israel?

Despite this, the current BDS movement has made the State of Israel its sole target. A nation governed by laws based on tolerance and justice, Israel is the only nation in that region where

women, gay people, Christians, Jews, Muslims and secular people live free. Arab Israelis, onefifth of the population, can be found in every segment of society. Walking the streets of Israel’s major cities will introduce you to people of every color, ethnicity, religion and nationality. Each is subject to the same laws.

So what kind of people are drawn to the perverse BDS effort?

Muslims and people who lean to the far political left dominate leadership roles and fill the ranks of BDS fanatics. A major factor producing this lack of self-awareness is anti-Semitism.

Muslims are nurtured on a fictionalized version of history. The hatred that follows is the natural outgrowth of the counter-factual history lessons.

Among leftists, the reasoning is a bit more complicated. Their animus toward the State of Israel is sourced to a combination of factors.

Anti-Semitism and antagonism toward nations of wealth and power where free markets thrive, contribute to resentment of Israel’s stunning successes. Unfortunately, a self-destructive form of sympathy for the enemy among left leaning Jews draws some to BDS as well.

We in San Diego have two institutions doing

yeoman’s work to counter the influence of BDS. The efforts of StandWithUs and T.E.A.M have built a powerful coalition of the informed and dedicated from all walks of life to fight BDS where ever it raises its ugly head.

“The BDS movement is deceptive and destructive,” says Roz Rothstein, founder of StandWithUs. “Its activists seek to malign Israel, blaming Israel alone for the lack of peace.”

“The BDS movement is nothing less than a continuation of the war the Palestinians have never admitted they lost,” says J.J. Surbeck, Executive Director of T.E.A.M. “At its heart lies the same old fundamental rejectionist stand that still prevents them from accepting that Israel is there to stay and has as much right to exist as they do.”

The good news is that despite the BDS movement’s best efforts, Israel thrives as one of the world’s primary beacons of liberty, prosperity and justice. The Israeli economic miracle proceeds undeterred by BDS. With our help and G-d’s blessings, that miracle will continue to bear the fruits of freedom and opportunity in the Jewish state into the future. A

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 81

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ALL IN THE FAMILY International Bath and Tile delivers extraordinary style, service and design

By Tinamarie Bernard

B business

Jacquelyne Silver International Bath and Tile's showroom floor leaves customers with a lot of choices.

W

ith two showrooms in San Diego, a thriving online business and more than 100 brands and styles from old-world traditional to modern contemporary, International Bath and Tile has earned a reputation for providing excellent design to discerning customers for years. Family owned since 1977, IBT boasts one of the largest selections at the most price points for bathroom décor in California.

“We are the last existing owner-operator tile and bath retailer in San Diego,” says Tammy Moch, marketing and HR director. “What sets us apart is that we are a big company with a small company feel.”

Moch is a “people person” who believes that building excellent relationships with staff, vendors and customers is the most important part of their business.

“Turnover is very low” she says, in part because their team of 20-plus sales and design consultants have a lot of autonomy and are empowered to “take care of customers from start to finish.”

Bath and Tile is also large enough to “negotiate the best prices on behalf of our customers,”

Moch says. “People need to know that when they come to IBT, their design consultant is trained to ask the right qualifying questions and really feel the direction that the customer wants to go in, all within their budget.”

The emphasis at IBT is on style that is unique and affordable, from tiles, plumbing, stone, hardware and cabinet pulls. The one thing IBT doesn’t do is installation, “but we have plenty of quality contractors we refer our clients to,” Moch explains.

Both Tammy and CEO Clive Moch (Tammy’s husband) have backgrounds in textiles. From the time they took over the business in 1983, they’ve approached home remodeling with the aesthetic eye of the fashion industry.

“It’s a very creative industry,” Tammy says.

Extended family is also important to the Mochs. Clive’s brother Jerry and sister Lorin are part of the management team at IBT, as was Clive’s late father.

“We are an immigrant family and wanted to give our kids an opportunity to step into the business if they want to.”

So far, the Moch’s two eldest children are

carving their own paths, although one is continuing a different family legacy, working in the Midwest in the copper, bronze and alloy business for a company started by his greatgrandfather. The youngest of the Moch’s three children is heading to college this fall.

Will the next generation of Mochs join the family business? That has yet to be determined, but of this San Diegans can be certain: International Bath and Tile will continue to deliver excellent designs at an affordable price, combing the world for luxurious architectural products to help you turn your everyday space into something beautiful. A ______________________

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Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 83

ELECTRIFY YOUR FANTASY TEAM Drafting for fantasy success WORDS AND PHOTOS BY PETER TALHAMÉ With the start of the New Year, a new football season will have just gotten underway and fantasy football owners all over will be pinning their hopes on freshly drafted teams to help carry them to victory. Whether you play in a casual group with the guys from your Men's Club, or a heated office league where the waiver wire is picked clean daily, making the playoffs would surely add a little honey to your season. So how do you identify the players that will sweeten your roster?

Here are a few tips to get you started.

RANK PLAYERS IN TIERS Aside from assigning a numeric value to each player (i.e. a cheat sheet) it is also wise to order

RECONCILE YOUR LOVE FOR THE CHARGERS WITH YOUR DESIRE TO WIN A FANTASY CHAMPIONSHIP While many analysts considered the Chargers playoff season last year an aberration, short memories are a norm amidst the 24-hour sports news cycle. In the last decade, the Chargers have made the playoffs more than they have missed them, and if last year showed us anything, it is that they are a thrilling team to watch, especially when they are putting up points in your league.

Rooting for the Bolts comes naturally, but be careful how that translates into your fantasy draft.

Here are a few thoughts on which

them into two tiered-lists: one based on overall projections and another by positionional ranking. Decide on clear cutoff points. This will help immensely in the middle rounds when you are in the tough position of choosing between two players you like. If one player who could fill your starting tight end slot is the last in his “by position” tier on your list, he might be more valuable to you than spending the pick on a third wide receiver who sits smack in the middle of his position tier. A quick check against the “best overall” tiers will help you confirm that the tight end isn’t valued too far beneath the wide receiver in overall ranking.

Don’t make your tiers too big, either, otherwise

Super Chargers to go for and who to consider leaving on the bench: Keenan Allen (WR) After starting his NFL career with one of the most impressive rookie campaigns ever by a receiver, some believe Allen will suffer from the sophomore slump based on an expectation that Philip Rivers will not return to the heights of 2013.

Some consider former Offensive Coordinator Ken Wisenhunts’ departure a signal for an offensive recession, but if you consider Mike McCoy’s pre-Chargers history – a former quarterback, spent a year as a wide receiver coach, then six as a quarterback coach, followed up with one season as a passing

they lose their effectiveness. They should be only as big as about half of a draft round.

DON'T BLINDLY CHOOSE RUNNING BACKS WITH YOUR FIRST TWO PICKS Let’s spend a little time with this one as it may take some of you a while to break free from this shackle. Historically speaking, running backs won championships. Fantasy strategies used to be simple because of this historical fact. Everyone followed the same doctrine: front load your team with the best running backs available and rack up the points. If you’ve played fantasy before, somewhere or another you’ve been told to do just that, but is that really a foolproof plan?

game coordinator, then four as an offensive coordinator himself – and then his decision to promote Rivers’ QB coach Frank Reich to offensive coordinator, it’s hard to imagine that the Chargers won’t find a way to get the ball in Allen’s hand. While much of Keenan Allen’s impressive rookie stats were accumulated on passes inside of 20 yards, talk from training camp is that Allen’s goal of adding some speed to his game has paid off and the long ball may be a new weapon in his arsenal. After a considerably more consistent campaign than a player like Vincent Jackson, who tallied up a few huge touchdown in games that were well over, Allen

seems like a smart pick in the early to mid 30’s overall. Should he fall anywhere after the late third round, pick him with confidence.

Philip Rivers (QB) After a resurgent season last year, Philip Rivers finished between the fourth and sixth best fantasy QBs depending on how your league scored. While the disappointment of 2012 still haunts fantasy owners, Rivers has been a serviceable fantasy starter throughout most of his career. With the emergence of Keenan Allen and Ladarius Green, to compliment vets Antonio Gates and the returning Malcom Floyd, it’s hard not to like Rivers’ chances, but before you reach, remember that

No matter where you got your cheat sheet from, if you had the first pick in the draft last year, chances are you were picking Adrian Peterson.

A following top-five pick was probably Doug Martin, Arian Foster, Ray Rice, Marshawn Lynch, CJ Spiller, Jamal Charles, Trent Richardson or Alfred Morris depending on how you ranked them. Maybe you had a better top RB list, but Adrian Peterson, last year’s prescribed overall number one pick, finished eighth amongst running backs. As for the rest of the listed ten “top ranking” backs into last year’s draft, only Charles, McCoy and Lynch finished top ten in performance. Foster, Martin, Rice, Spiller and Richardson all finished on or outside of the top 25.

The fact is, the running-back-heavy draft strategies that worked in the 1990’s and 2000’s are officially outdated. Each year there are less and less workhorse backs in the league. With injury a constant fear for front offices, most teams have implemented some sort of RB by committee system. The torrent of rule changes over the past few years has swayed offensive coordinators to

while his yardage may remain similar to last years’, it will be hard to expect as many receiving touchdowns from Danny Woodhead or Eddie Royal.

Combine that with the Chargers’ offseason acquisition of RB Donald Brown and the strong training camp performance of the Sproleslike rookie Branden Oliver and it wouldn’t be tough to imagine the Bolts finding a few more of their total touchdowns on the ground.

While a top five performance this year may not be in the cards, Rivers’ average draft position of QB 15 and 106 overall seems like an overreaction. If you tend to aim for skill positions early in a draft, grabbing Rivers as your first QB

implement a wide variety of West Coast Hybrid Offenses and as a result, the NFL has become a pass-happy league. Compound all of this with the clear point of emphasis the officials have placed on illegal contact and defensive holding this preseason and it is not hard to predict that blue chip wide receivers will make even more of an impact on fantasy than they did last year. This does not negate the value of a top running back to your fantasy team, but it should help you to reevaluate your definition of a top running back and where they fit into your draft strategy. If you had done so last year, you could have drafted Eddie Lacey in the third round, Reggie bush in the fourth and Knowshon in the 11th!

DON’T WORRY TOO MUCH ABOUT BYE-WEEKS While you might not want a lot of byes in the same week that you have a lot of bench spots, avoiding a quality player because of a schedule conflict is a quick way to get a mediocre team.

While many fantasy managers are concerned with a group of their players sharing the same

with your 10th round pick doesn’t seem that crazy. Counting out a guy who has thrown more than 4,000 yards in five of his last six seasons and more than 30 TD’s in three, does seem a little crazy. If you don’t get one of the top three QBs, grab Rivers late and then pair him with another late pick, high-upside playcaller like Jay Cutler, Andy Dalton, or even a last round pick on Johnny Manziel as matchup insurance.

Ryan Mathews (RB) While the end of Mathews’ 2013 season looked incredibly promising, questions about his durability and the three-year, $10.5M signing of Donald Brown should temper some of your expectations for Mathews.

dreaded week off, the truth is, unless you don’t have enough players to field a full team, having one week in which you lose the majority of your star power can be less troublesome than missing out on a player or two’s points in each of the nine separate bye weeks. Whether you lose by one point or 40, a loss is a loss – why not minimize the number of weeks you are affected by the byes.

DRAFT FOR OPPORTUNITY NOT FOR NAME BRANDS No matter how much you love a player, or how well he has played in the past, with each new season comes new opportunities. Players all around the league have been drafted, resigned, traded, and released. With each of these transactions, the landscape has changed.

Eight-carry-a-game backs may now be getting 16 touches a game, a slot reciever may now be a deep threat, or a second year phenom QB may be headed for the sophomore slump. Look for changes that may change a team's game-plan and as a result, turn an unknown player into the next big thing.

Spending a late third round pick on him might be OK, but with the Chargers depth at the position and the desire to see Mathews complete one dominant season, you should be hesitant to draft him as your first RB. Ladarius Green (TE) The heir apparent to Antonio Gates’ throne showed some flashes of brilliance in his second season, but the king plays on and Green should not yet expect to pass Gates on the depth chart. While Green has all of the tools to be a dominant tight end in the league, he still needs some time to get there, so if you are looking for a backup tight end or someone to come on strong towards

the end of the year, Green could be a steal in the start of the 12th round.

Malcom Floyd (WR) It is great to see Floyd back in practice after the scary neck injury he suffered in week two of last year.

With that being said, it seems like a risky move to draft Floyd this season. Keep your eye on his early production and if he seems to be playing well, consider him as an early waiver pick-up.

Read the full story with expanded player analysis online at: www.SDjewishjournal.com

D

WHAT’S

GOIN’

ON?

So Much to See

PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY

by eileen sondak • nsondak@gmail.com

D "Kinky Boots" takes over the Civic Theatre Sept. 23-28.

It might not feel like fall, but on the entertainment circuit, summer is fading fast. Although the Globe’s Shakespeare Festival plays on until Sept.

14 and Moonlight has one more outdoor show to present, Summer Pops has played its last note and many troupes are ushering in the beginning 86 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

of a new season. The Old Globe will start the ball rolling by introducing “Bright Star,” a brand new musical by Edie Brickell and the inimitable Steve Martin.

The San Diego Opera’s new incarnation will bow in this month with a recital, Broadway-

San Diego will launch its season with a Tony Award-winning musical, the La Jolla Playhouse is ready to unwrap a world premiere, and Cygnet goes full speed ahead with two Sam Shepard plays in repertory. In addition, Hershey Felder’s adaptation of “The Pianist of Willesden Lane”

"Two Gentlemen of Verona" finishes out the Globe's Shakespeare Festival through Sept. 14. of Louisiana music: Marcia Ball and Terrance Simien.

The Lamb’s had such success with its stunning production of “Les Miserables” at its Coronado home, the troupe decided to extend its run until at least Sept. 7. Meanwhile, the popular “Boomers: The Musical Revue of a Generation” has been at the downtown Horton Grand Theatre for months, and that has been extended again as well.

Moonlight Stage Productions will finish its summer season on a high note with “Catch Me If You Can,” a musical based on the popular film about a teenager who pulls off daring feats including posing as a pilot, passing bad checks, and eluding capture for years. Unbelievable as the story is, it was based on a real person.

New Play Cafe and Enterprise Theatre will feature seven short plays by local playwrights at DeMi Café Café Sept. 6-21 as part of their “Legends (in 10 Minutes or Less)” project.

Dessert and beverages are included with tickets.

The Museum of Contemporary Art in La Jolla is showcasing “Treasures of the Tamayo in Mexico City,” an exhibition that reflects a synthesis of pre-Columbian imagery and Mexican folk forms with modernist movements from the U.S. and Europe.

Mingei is featuring an exhibit that should appeal to water enthusiasts. “Surf Craft: Design and the Culture of Board Riding” will be ensconced at the museum through Jan. 11, 2015.

On Sept. 13, look for “In the Realm of Nature” to move into the Mingei. A

D

Shepard – “Fool for Love,” and “True West.”

This all-American double bill starts Sept. 24 and runs in rotating repertory through Nov. 2.

“Fool for Love” – with its clash of reality and dreams, past and present – is often described as Shepherd’s most beautiful play. It takes place in an old motel in the Mojave Desert and features two people who can’t live with and can’t live without each other.

Shepard’s “True West” is a blistering comedy that was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 1983. It pits two brothers against each other in a struggle for identity. The plays feature Francis Gercke and Manny Fernandes and both were staged for the Old Town Theatre by its talented artistic director Sean Murray.

San Diego Musical Theatre is moving out of its comfort zone to produce “Next to Normal” at the North Park Theatre. This Pulitzer Prizewinning rock musical deals with a suburban household facing mental illness. Due to its adult theme and language, this is one San Diego Musical Theatre production that isn’t suitable for kids, but it’s a must-see for mature audiences. The show is slated to run Sept. 26-Oct. 12. When the new season begins next year, the company will be calling the Spreckels Theatre home.

Welk Theater is featuring the classic musical, “Oklahoma,” through Nov. 16. This Rodgers and Hammerstein masterpiece is a great choice for the whole family. You can enjoy a buffet dinner before each performance.

“Boogie on the Bayou” is heading to the Poway Center for the Performing Arts on Sept.

20. This one-night stand will feature two legends

PHOTO BY JIM COX

D

will grace the Lyceum Stage to jumpstart the San Diego Rep’s impressive 39th season – and San Diego Musical Theatre will tackle the adult-themed rock musical “Next to Normal.”

September is turning out to be quite a month for theater buffs!

The San Diego Opera’s regular opera season doesn’t begin until January, but you can check out Ailyn Perez and Stephen Costello in Recital at the Balboa Theatre on Sept. 5. The real life pair – dubbed “the hottest couple in the opera world” – will sing songs from their new album, “Love Duets.” There will be another recital before the end of the year, followed by three full-length operas performed at the Civic Theatre. The San Diego Opera will conclude its season with a 50th anniversary concert at Symphony Hall in April.

Bravo!

Broadway-San Diego will give “Kinky Boots” its San Diego debut at the Civic Theatre Sept.

23-28. This six-time Tony Award-winning musical (written by Harvey Fierstein) should shake things up with its red-hot song-and-dance numbers and its unlikely pair of heroes. The show is recommended for mature audiences, so leave the kids at home this time.

The Old Globe’s “Bright Star” will light up the theatrical landscape Sept. 13. This exciting world premiere – with book by comedian/ musician/movie star extraordinaire Steve Martin – will continue through Nov. 2. The Globe’s summer Shakespeare Festival is featuring “The Two Gentlemen of Verona,” a raucous and fastpaced comedy about friendship, romance, and secret identities. The outdoor season will end Sept. 14.

The La Jolla Playhouse will present the premiere of Sheri Wilner’s “Kingdom City” at the Potiker Theatre Sept. 4-Oct. 5. The play is about a New York director who reluctantly agrees to stage a high school production of “The Crucible” and creates a firestorm in that small Missouri town.

North Coast Repertory Theatre is mining the wit and wisdom of Noel Coward to kick off its 33rd season on Sept. 3. The troupe will stage “Fallen Angels” – a comic romp about two bored British ladies, their clueless husbands, and an amorous Frenchman. Rosina Reynolds directs this little gem, which runs through Sept. 28.

The San Diego Repertory Theatre will start its fall season (a season boasting shows that are new to San Diego) with “The Pianist of Willesden Lane” Sept. 3-28. Local favorite Hershey Felder adapted and staged this piece for the Lyceum Space, so it should be a winner.

Cygnet is doing another pair of plays in repertory. This time, it’s two shows by Sam

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 87

L’shanah Tovah from the San Diego Jewish Journal!

We wish you a sweet and prosperous new year.

THE DRAMA CONTINUES...

ONSTAGE

2014–2015 SEASON La bohème Jan 24–Feb 1, 2015 Don Giovanni Feb 14–22, 2015 Nixon in China Mar 14–22, 2015 SPECIAL EVENTS

Ailyn Pérez & Stephen Costello in Recital Sep 5, 2014 We’ll meet again: The Songs of Kate Smith Stephanie Blythe & Craig Terry Dec 11, 2014 50th Anniversary Celebration Concert Apr 18 & 19, 2015 El Pasado Nunca se Termina Apr 25, 2015 SUBSCRIPTIONS ON SALE NOW

sdopera.com • (619) 533-7000

88 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014 JJ_Sept_HorzHalf.indd 1

7/31/2014 11:11:24 AM

www.hadassah.org 858-268-3200

©2014 Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Hadassah is a registered trademark of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc.

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 89

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Jewish Education for Busy Families Preparing a son or daughter for bar/bat mitzvah can be a daunting task for time-crunched families, but Temple Etz Rimon has a solution. The Reform synagogue in Carlsbad offers an affordable, one-day-a-week Jewish-education program led by award-winning teachers and staff in a low student-to-teacherratio environment that’s fun, nurturing and comprehensive.

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The temple’s K-7 curriculum, run by Rabbi Karen Sherman, covers both Jewish studies and Hebrew language. “We’re unique in North County because we provide Jewish education that fits into families’ jam-packed schedules,” says Rabbi Sherman. “The program begins at preschool and continues into the late teens with our youth group. We also offer a B’nai Mitzvah program for adults, like a university-extension program. It’s part of a lifelong Jewish learning experience.”

Also, at Temple Etz Rimon the teen gets to shine when becoming a bar or bat mitzvah. “In many larger Reform temples, the bar or bat mitzvah has to share the day with fellow students because there aren’t enough Sabbaths in a year,” says president Lori Hellman. “Here, the ceremony of progressing into Jewish adulthood is a singular, intimate family affair that’s not shared with other students. It’s one of the features that sets us apart.”

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90 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

N news

Calif. Legislature Approves $7.12 billion in Water Bonds

In August, the California State Legislature approved $7.12 billion in new bonds to provide drought relief, safe drinking water and water use efficiency in order to increase the sustainability of California’s water systems. In a statement, Senate President Darrell Steinberg said the bipartisan agreement is “a strong solution that meets the needs of all California communities for generations to come.”

The proposal, supported by the San Diego County Water Authority, will be up for vote in the Nov. 2014 Genearl Election.

Moishe House Establishes Global Community Fund

Moishe House, a pluralistic international organization that provides meaningful Jewish experiences to young adults, has established the Global Community Fund to meet increasing demand for their services around the world.

Moishe House currently has more than 60 houses worldwide, including one in San Diego. They train, support, and sponsor young Jewish leaders as they create vibrant home-based communities.

Learn more at moishehouse.org.

Congress on Israel

Throughout Operation Protective Edge, both the House and the Senate showed support for Israel in a variety of ways. Here is a rundown of the bills, measures and announcements made during the operation, as compiled by AIPAC. In early July, the House called for greater oversight on Iran with 344 members signing a letter to President Obama. Shortly after, the House passed an energy and water appropriations measure which included $2 million for a U.S.-Israel energy cooperation. The House then passed a resolution voicing support for Israel’s right to defend itself. A week later, the Senate passed a unanimous resolution in support of Israel.

In late July, the House voted to sanction Hezbollah by cutting them off from the international financing system and senators outlined compliance measures for Iran. Later, the Senate called for a demilitarized Gaza and offered a $5 million reward for information on the kidnapped Israeli teens.

Later still, the House condemned Hamas’ use of civilian shields and the full Congress approved $225 million in funding for the Iron Dome.

New App Created for Minyan on the Go

A new smartphone app will make finding a minyan easier by connecting Jews who want to pray together. When downloaded and activated, users are sent notifications when they are within 10 minutes of a minyan request. The application, called “Minyan Now,” is free and available for both iPhone and Android devices.

“This works great at airports, train stations, sports events, and other areas where there are likely 10 or more people ... but no official shul or synagogue in the area,” a company news release stated.

“This app will bring them all together for the purpose of prayer.”

Presumably, the app also could be downloaded by women (traditionalists require 10 men older than the age of 13 for a minyan; egalitarian congregations also count women).

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 91

N news

Charlene Seidle Selected to be President/CEO of JCF

San Diego Symphony Names New CEO

In August, the Board of Directors of Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego announced Charlene Seidle as its new President and CEO, taking over for the retiring Marjory Kaplan. Her appointment is effective Jan. 20, 2015.

Seidle comes to JCF from the Leichtag Foundation where she is currently serving as Executive Vice President. Her new position at JCF marks a return to the organization where she held various roles since 1997.

ORT Appoints New West Coast Region Director

The San Diego Symphony has named Martha S. Gilmer as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Gilmer comes to San Diego from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, where she worked for 35 years.

About her appointment, which begins Sept. 24, Gilmer said: “The San Diego Symphony has impressed me artistically and with its commitment to the community.

The board leadership is passionate about music, and believes that … musicians are at the core of the orchestra’s mission, which is critically important.”

Igal Zaidenstein, a veteran fundraising executive and resident of Los Angeles, has been appointed Executive Director of the West Coast Region of ORT America. He will be primarily responsible for fundraising for the world’s largest Jewish education organization.

“We are excited to have such a talented, dedicated and experienced individual as Igal join our team,” said Alan E. Klugman, National Executive Director of ORT America. “His extensive knowledge of the local Jewish community, coupled with a unique fundraising background and proven executive skills will bring in new members and supporters as well as enlarge our presence and fundraising across the region, which is vital to our meeting our commitment to students’ education worldwide.”

Zaidenstein previously worked for Bnai Zion Foundation and the American Friends of the Citizens’ Empowerment Center in Israel.

“I am excited to be taking the helm of this extraordinary organization with its long history of providing an education that has influenced the lives of hundreds of thousands of people worldwide,” Zaidenstein said.

Learn more about ORT at ortamerica.org.

Seacrest Village Celebrates Successful Golf Tournament

Guardians of San Diego’s 23rd Annual Golf and Tennis Tournament, presented by The William Gumpert Foundation, raised more than $150,000 this year. Proceeds from “Take a Swing for Seniors” held July 28, will benefit the Resident Assistance Fund at Seacrest Village Retirement Communities.

“Charitable care is assistance for those whose savings have been depleted due to illness or injury and for those who simply have no one to turn to for help,” explained Devin Chodorow, president of the Guardians of San Diego and co-chair of the 2014 Tournament Committee.

Guardians of San Diego hosted 122 golf and tennis players at the all-day event which also included a silent auction, BBQ buffet lunch, cocktail reception and an awards program.

92 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

N news

Temple EmanuEl Appoints Two New Directors

Lieberman to Teach at Yeshiva University

Temple Emanu-El, a reform synagogue in the San Carlos area, has appointed Shiri Haines as its new Executive Director.

Haines comes to San Diego from New Jersey where she worked in nonprofit management, most recently as Executive Director for another synagogue. She is joined

by Tamara Levin, newly appointed Preschool Director for the temple.

Levin previously directed the summer program for a preschool in Newton, Mass.

Environmental Group Takes Root in San Diego

Hazon, the world’s largest Jewish environmental organization, joins the North County Jewish Hub, a Leichtag Foundation Initiative based at the Ranch in Encinitas. Hazon, which means “vision” in Hebrew, began in New York City in 2000.

Gabi Scher, who is originally from San Diego, has been appointed Associate Director of Hazon San Diego. In the next few months, she will conduct needs assessments surveys around the community, speaking with synagogues, schools, organizations, and institutions in an effort to determine the programming from which the San Diego Jewish community would most benefit.

“I feel honored to bring Hazon to San Diego and to be a part of a unique organization that merges Jewish values, food justice, and the environment,” Sher said.

“We are so pleased to welcome Hazon to the North County Jewish Hub,” said Charlene Seidle, out-going Executive Vice President of the Leichtag Foundation, “and to deepen programming in our community that help align and integrate interests around the food system, the environment, farming and sustainability with Jewish traditions and teachings.”

Joseph Lieberman, former U.S. senator from Connecticut, was appointed the first professor to the position named in his honor, the Joseph Lieberman chair in public policy and public service at Yeshiva University. The 2000 Democratic Vice Presidential candidate will teach one undergraduate course, and give three public lectures, two concerning Judaism and the Middle East.

“I am excited about working with the students at Y.U. to engage and inform their interest in public policy and public service,” Lieberman said in a statement released by the university.

TAU to Host Cyber Conference

Cyber Week 2014, one of the most important annual international cyber security events, is slated to take place in Israel on Sept. 14-17.

The four-day conference, held jointly this year by TAU’s Yuval Ne’eman Workshop for Science, Technology and Security, the National Cyber Bureau, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Interdisciplinary Cyber Research Center (ICRC), will bring together leading international cyber experts, policymakers, researchers, security officials, and diplomats for an exchange of knowledge, methods, and ideas concerning evolving cyber technologies.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to speak at the event as well as antivirus experts Eugene Kaspersky and Christopher Painter.

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 93

CHOOSE YOUR OWN 2014 –15 FROM THESE SERIES

CUSTOMIZE YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE!

ANY Special Concerts PERFORMANCE ANY Jacobs Masterworks PERFORMANCE

Camer on Car penter

Hilary Hahn

3

5

CHOOSE

CHOOSE

except A JOHN WILLIAMS CELEBRATION

7

CHOOSE

Dean a M artin

12

CHOOSE

I r vi n Mayfi el d

ANY PERFORMANCE except VINCE GILL and KENNY G

ANY

International Passport Series

PERFORMANCE except SALUTE TO VIENNA

Concerts and series excluded from the Choose Your Own subscription package options: Family Festival, Fox Theater Film Series, Chamber Series, and Camera Lucida; Special concerts: Vince Gill, Kenny G, Salute to Vienna, The Godfather-Live, and John Williams. Speak with your Box Office or Direct Sales Representative at 619.235.0804 to discuss further details if you are interested in buying single tickets to these special presentations.

Make a sound investment. Donate to the San Diego Symphony today! Call 619.615.3908 or Visit sandiegosymphony.org/donations MEDIA PARTNERS:

A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SERIES SPONSORS:

Financial support is provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.

ALL SINGLE TICKET FULL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UP UNTIL SHOWTIME WITHOUT ANY GIVEN NOTICE. All artists, programs, dates and times subject to change. All sales final, no refunds.

CALL 619.235.0804 or VISIT sandiegosymphony.com 94 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

DIVERSIONS

By Natalie Jacobs “Crazy Ex Girlfriend” We all know that Jews have a long history of being funny – women included – and the millennial generation is no different.

One emerging contemporary Jewish voice belongs to Rachel Bloom, a writer/ comedian/actress who has been winning awards in and around Los Angeles for her ironically hilarious web videos like “I Steal Pets,” “You Can Touch my Boobies,” and “Historically Accurate Disney Princess Song.”

While Internet fame does have its place, we’re watching her closely now as she may soon become a household name. The entertainment trade magazine Variety is reporting that Showtime has purchased a pilot episode for a show called “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” co-written and starring the lovely Rachel Bloom. The show is billed as a half-hour comedy with “musical elements.”

It follows Bloom’s character as she gives up her job as a lawyer in Manhattan to “find happiness in the Los Angeles suburb of West Covina.” She proceeds to become a stalker, a very funny one assuredly. The pilot will air with the new television season this fall.

“The Family” This new novel follows a pre WWII family divided into three branches across Europe.

“Kosher Holiday Baker” Just in time for the holidays, these recipes offer new takes on the family favorites.

“The Green Prince” Adapted from a best-selling memoir, the documentary “The Green Prince” tells the story of Mosab Hassan Yousef, son of a Hamas leader who became an operative for the Israeli Security Agency. After being recruited by the agency while in prison for his actions against Israel, Yousef commenced a decade of spying for the Jewish State. The documentary opens in New York and Los Angeles this month and a nationwide rollout will be announced soon.

“All of the Above” This documentary film follows four unmarried female rabbis who, for a variety of reasons, have chosen to undergo in vitro fertilization in order to have the kids they’ve always wanted. Through deeply personal interviews, the women share their struggle to come to this decision. The result is a portrait of what it means to be a Jewish-American woman who wants to “have it all,” even if that means being a bit untraditional.

“The Human Age” This acclaimed new book is a scientific but approachable study of how humans have reshaped the planet.

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 95

TAKE NOTE SEPT. 1-30

by tinamarie bernard

BEST BETS

Mark your calendar.

Looking for some ways to enjoy the last month of summer? There’s plenty to do this month. First up, for the young professionals among us (those aged 21 to early 40), Federation’s Young Adult Division offers a variety of things to do throughout the year. If you’re new to San Diego and want to connect to other young Jewish professionals then now is the time to get involved. YAD is having their Autumn Newcomers Brunch on Sept. 7 at 11 a.m. To register and learn more, contact carlye@jewishfederationsandiego.org.

Into boat racing? The San Diego Bayfair is happening Sept. 1214 at Mission Bay. Listen to live music and see the fastest boats in the world compete during this 40-year-old family-friendly tradition.

Buy your tickets and check out the lineup of racing action at sandiegobayfair.org.

If reflection is more your speed, start your New Year preparations with the Waters of Eden Rosh Hashanah preparation program and immersion ceremony. Rabbi Lenore Bohm and Cantor Kathy Robins will lead the free event, open to men and women, on the lawn at Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach on Sept. 14 from 9-10:30 a.m. For more information, contact Rabbi Bohm at director@ watersofedensd.org.

The next day, you can enjoy an unparalleled experience in a stunning setting while helping the JCC at their 19th annual Jewish Community Center Golf Classic. Held on Monday, Sept. 15 at the exclusive Del Mar Country Club and the spa at Rancho Valencia, participants will enjoy the members-only course with sweeping vistas, sloping hills and immaculate grounds. Don’t miss a chance to play on the “Best Private Course” as named by Ranch and Coast magazine, and know that your contribution will support social, cultural, educational and recreational programs for the entire San Diego community. Visit lfjcc.org/development/annualgolf.aspx to learn more and register.

Fans of Texas-style stomp-rock and blues swamp music can take a trip to New Orleans without leaving San Diego this month. Just join the Poway Center for the Performing Arts on Sept. 20 at for Boogie on the Bayou featuring two Grammy-winning legends of zydeco music: Marcia Ball and Terrance Simien. For tickets and schedule information, visit powaycenter.com.

Finally, San Diego’s Restaurant Week is back again! The 10th annual city-wide festival showcases San Diego’s diverse and upcoming-and-coming culinary world with more than 175 restaurants participating from Sept. 21 to Sept. 26. Now is the time to indulge in those new restaurants you’ve been looking for an excuse to try. Visit sandiegorestaurantweek.com for more information and a complete list of restaurants. A

96 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

YAD NEWCOMER'S BRUNCH Sept. 7 11 a.m.

To register and get location information, contact carlye@ jewishfederationsandiego. org JCC 19TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC Sept. 15 11 a.m.

Del Mar Country Club and Spa at Rancho Valencia

BOOGIE ON THE BAYOU Sept. 20 8 p.m.

Poway Center for the Performing Arts

SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Sept. 21-26 180 participating restaurants across San Diego. Lunch and dinner options available.

SAN DIEGO JEWISH

SENIOR EVENTS SEPTEMBER 1-30

Lawrence Family JCC 4126 Executive Drive, La Jolla Contact Melanie Rubin to R.S.V.P. (858) 362-1141 Advanced Beginners Bridge Class Fridays, starting Sept. 12 9:30 a.m.

Cost: $125 members, $150 nonmembers R.S.V.P. by Sept. 2.

Tai Chi/Qi Gong for Older Adults Mondays, starting Sept. 22 Cost: $16 members; $20 nonmembers.

Evening Social Bridge Tuesdays, 7 p.m.

For intermediate and advanced players, Chicago scoring, bring a partner.

Cost: $2.00 for members, $3 nonmembers.

Oceanside Senior Center 455 Country Club Lane, Oceanside Call Josephine at (760) 295-2564 North County Jewish Seniors Club Third Thursday of each month, 12:30 p.m.

Join us to hear speakers and/or entertainment at our monthly meetings.

Light refreshments served. Visitors welcome.

JFS University City Older Adult Center 9001 Towne Centre Drive, La Jolla Call Aviva Saad for details or to R.S.V.P. (858) 550-5998 Labor Day Program, exercise lunch and entertainment by Cam and Dolly Vidal Tuesday, Sept. 2, 10 a.m.

Lunch available with reservations.

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a Mexican Fiesta Tuesday, Sept. 16, 10 a.m.

Music and entertainment by Musicstation. Lunch available with reservations.

Rosh Hashanah Program and Celebration Tuesday, Sept. 23, 10 a.m.

On the Go excursions A program of Jewish Family Service, On the Go provides transportation to events throughout the county for homebound seniors. For information on any of these excursions, please call (858) 637-7320.

Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center Sunday, Sept. 28, bus leaves at 10:15 a.m.

Enjoy a beautiful fall in the country with many farm-related activities, quilt making demonstrations, boutique shopping and more. Cost: $38 due by Sept. 22.

JFS No. County Inland Center 15905 Pomerado Road, Poway Call (858) 674-1123 for details. R.S.V.P. for lunch by Monday at 12:30 p.m.

Law and Order – Senior Edition with San Diego Deputy District Attorney, Lisa Stark.

Tuesday, Sept. 2, 11 a.m.

Stark will share experiences and stories from her years working in the D.A.’s office from elder abuse to senior scams.

BATES NUT FARM, WITH ON THE GO Sunday, Sept. 28, depart at 10:15 a.m.

Enjoy a beautiful fall in the country with many farm-related activities, quilt making demonstrations, boutique shopping and more. Cost is $38 due by Sept. 22.

Meditations for Spiritual Renewal with Yana Kebakova Monday, Sept. 8, 11 a.m.

The Ranch – North County’s new Jewish Hub of Innovation Wednesday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m.

Charlene Seidle, Leichtag Foundation, will share the plans, events, progress and vision for The Leichtag Ranch.

JFS Coastal Club at Temple Solel 3575 Manchester Ave., Cardiff by the Sea Call Melinda Wynar at (858) 674-1123 for details. R.S.V.P. for lunch by Monday at 12:30 p.m.

I Write the Songs Tuesday, Sept. 9, 11 a.m.

East meets West – health care in balance Tuesday, Sept. 16, 11 a.m.

Dr. Mark Drucker from the Center for Advanced Medicine will discuss ways to navigate changes in health care.

Zen Art – The Connection between Creativity and Spirituality Tuesday, Sept. 30, 11 a.m.

In this make-and-take session, you will learn simple techniques and create your own piece of artwork based on spiritual ideas.

Joslyn Senior Center 210 Park Ave./Broadway, Escondido Call (760) 436-4005 Jewish War Veterans meetings Second Sunday of each month, 11 a.m.

Preceded by a bagel/lox breakfast at 10:45 a.m. San Diego North County Post 385.

Paradise Village 2700 E. 4th St. Call (858) 521-8694 Jewish War Veterans meetings Second Sunday of each month, 10 a.m.

Preceded by a bagel/lox/herring breakfast at 9:45 a.m. Greater San Diego Post 185.

JFS College Avenue Center 4855 College Ave., San Diego Call (858) 637-3270 for details or to R.S.V.P. Paris with Melinda Wynar Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 12:30 p.m.

How to Maintain Your Sense of Humor When You’ve Been Sentenced to Death with Author Bryna Kranzler Thursday, Sept. 4 at 12:45 p.m. A

Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 97

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SAN DIEGO JEWISH COMMUNITY OBITUARIES Arrangements by Am Israel Mortuary

ALL SERVICES ALREADY HELD Morris Wainstein – San Diego 3/14/1923-4/33/2014 Survivors: wife, Bessie Wainstein; daughters, Adril Bugbul and Simone Vandebeen; sons, Neil and Hilton Wainstein.

Clarence Baron – San Diego 11/17/29-6/2/2014 Survivors: wife, Helene Baron; sons, Leonard and Lois Baron.

David Montag - Encinitas 11/19/1920-6/3/2014 Survivors: wife, Thelma Montag; daughters, Terri Rice and Heidi Welsh; son, Jeffrey Montag; five grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

Bruce Marshall – San Diego 4/1/1950-6/3/2014 Survivors: parents, Allan and Shirley Marshall; wife, Shelley Marshall; daughter, Beth

Marshall-Bergman; son, Benjamin Marshall; and one grandchild.

Reva Beck – San Diego 2/2/1923-6/4/2014 Survivors: daughters, Beverly Ellman, Elaine Bruns and Gail Sugarman; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Ziniaida Khayut – San Diego 8/6/1946-6/6/2014 Survivors: daughter, Lima Saft; son, Avram Khayut; three grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

Gary Hilmelfarb – La Mesa 9/20/1949-6/6/2014 Survivors: nephews, Steven and Adam Fox; and niece Laurie Lovell.

Bonnie Kessler-Johnson 11/19/1951-6/9/2014 Survivor: husband, Paul Johnson.

100 SDJewishJournal.com l September 2014

David Zeitung – San Diego 5/5/1931-6/9/2014 Survivors: daughters, Ann Lombardi; sons, Jeffrey and Kenneth Zeitung; and seven grandchildren.

Mildred Reitman – La Mesa 11/19/1919 – 6/9/2014 Survivors: son, Dr. Stephen and Alan Reitman.

William Brunelle - Carlsbad 3/17/1926-6/10/2014 Survivors: daughters, Brenda Joseph, Renee Brunelle, Beloria Fink and Karen Slater; son, Meir Brunelle; and 11 grandchildren.

Shirley Berger – San Diego 3/2/1928-6/11/2014 Survivors: husband, Louis Berger; and daughter, Ellen Berger.

Stanley Herman - Escondido 2/8/1933-6/12/2014 Survivors: wife, Sheila Herman;

and son, Wayne Herman.

Rhona Godfrey - Encinitas 8/25/1928-6/13/2104 Survivors: daughter, Michele Black; son, Anthony Godrey; four grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.

Jerome Katzin – San Diego 5/22/1920-6/14/2104 Survivors: Diane Katzin; sons, David and Daniel Katzin; and two grandchildren.

Lorraine Lavin – La Mesa 4/26/1929-6/14/2014 Survivors: daughters, Linda Hitt and Joanne Lavin.

Myles Spicer – Palm Desert 1/23/1933-6/14/2014 Survivors: daughter, Jane Spicer; and son, Paul Spicer.

desert life

PALM SPRINGS

by Pamela Price

pamprice57@gmail.com

Redefining Retirement, All Year Round

PHOTO BY DONNA RAIDER

Catching up with the tireless Sid Craig

Sid Craig in his home in Palm Springs.

D

espite the triple-digit summer heat, Palm Springs’ Sid Craig remains impervious.

Year round, he serves as a board member for nine organizations that run the gamut from theater to law enforcement.

I last saw Sid at a reception given by the Consul General of Israel during the 25th Anniversary of the Palm Springs International Film Festival (for which he is Secretary of the Board).

“I thank President Gerald Ford’s son Steven for helping make that happen,” Craig says of the position he has held for years.

As the founder of the Craig Agency, a theatrical talent agency born in 1969, Craig represented film, television and stage personalities until he retired to Palm Springs in 2006. By 2014, he was honored by the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission in January for “promoting universal human rights closer to home.” This Commission is the only one among the nine cities in the Coachella Valley.

“Sid didn’t retire,” Phyllis Eisenberg of Palm Desert says, “he is always on fast-forward. He spent a lot of time here in his youth, moved here

and hasn’t missed a beat since!”

Because of his expertise with stage acting, I asked Craig about the Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre (CVRT) at the Atrium in Rancho Mirage.

“This is one of my favorites,” he says as he describes the theater’s 2014-15 series. It features four Broadway plays exploring different ethnic themes, beginning with the Jewish-themed Chaim Potok’s “The Chosen,” followed by “Having Our Say,” an African American theme, “La Gringa,” a Latino theme, and finishing with “We Hold These Truths,” a Japanese theme.

It is no coincidence that Craig also serves on the Board of Directors for the Annenberg Theatre Council and the Palm Springs Cultural Center, headquartered at the Camelot Theatre in Palm Springs.

“Having graduated from Grant High School in the San Fernando Valley [class of ’62], I have been visiting Palm Springs for more than 50 years. Among my high school friends were Mike Curb, Tom Selleck, Mickey Dolan (the Monkees) and Mike Post. I remember Palm Springs as a

small town without a small town mentality.

“When I moved here from Los Angeles in 2006 I didn’t have a blueprint of what I would do. I was always a community activist in L.A. and that background set the stage for my lifestyle here.”

His participation today also includes serving as a member of the Board of Directors for Shelter from the Storm, an organization that provides support for victims of domestic abuse. Moving in yet another direction, Craig also serves as a Commissioner for the Palm Springs Parks and Recreation Department.

I asked what a typical Tuesday looks like, schedule-wise what with juggling all of these boards around.

“If you mean the third Tuesday of the month, I have board meetings at 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.” he says.

With that, Craig is definitely redefining what retirement means Palm Springs. His advice: “If you want to get the job done, ask a busy person.”

A Elul 5574•Tishrei 5775 l SDJewishJournal.com 101

September 23-28, 2014

THE ROYALE

Extra Season Event!

By Marco Ramirez Directed by Rachel Chavkin

Jay “The Sport” Jackson dreams of being the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. But it’s 1905, and in the segregated world of boxing, his chances are as good as knocked out. But when a crooked boxing promoter hatches a plan for “the fight of the century,” The Sport just might land a place in the ring with the reigning white heavyweight champion. Loosely based on real events, Marco Ramirez’s (“Orange is the New Black”) wildly theatrical new play brings to explosive life the sights and sounds of the early-20th-century boxing circuit, and the ultimate fight for a place in history.

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