Saturday, April 18, 2026
Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine
Evelyn & Ernest Rady
www.jfssd.org/gala
PARTICIPATE IN THE FOUR MITZVOT OF PURIM:
1) HEAR THE MEGILLA (STORY OF PURIM) TWICE
2) GIVE CHARITY TO TWO PEOPLE
3) SEND FOOD BASKETS (MISHLO'ACH MANOT) TO ONE FRIEND
4 ) P A R T A
Bakery”
O r d e r s N o w O p e n !
B r i g i t t e s B a k e r y . c o m
O u r t e a m o f a d u l t s b a k e r s w i t h s p e c i a l n e e d s a r e
p a s s i o n a t e a n d d e d i c a
s h l i , t h e y r
t i o n a l t r a i n w o r k
e c t o f F r i e n
U n d e r t h e R a b b i
PUBLISHERS
Mark Edelstein and Dr. Mark Moss
EDITOR
Susan Edelstein
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Makayla Hoppe
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Donna D’Angelo
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Eileen Sondak
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Bartell, Linda Bennett, Andrea Simantov, Trevor James McNeil, Marnie Macauley, Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort, Galia Miller Sprung, Micah Siva, Lisa McGuigan
CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR Pepe Fainberg
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SDJJ is published monthly by San Diego Jewish Journal, LLC. Subscription rate is $72 for one year (12 issues). Send subscription requests to SDJJ, 122 15th Street, PO Box 421, Del Mar Ca 92014. 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 ©2026 by San Diego Jewish Journal. The San Diego Jewish Journal is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. San
Jewish Journal (858) 442
SUSAN EDELSTEIN
It’s February and love is in the air. Our issue this month is all about love — giving, receiving, spreading, enjoying, and passing it on. Our cover story features San Diego Natural History Museum and its presentation of a new nighttime event focused on Valentine’s Day called Love Bites which “will take you through the seductive science of mating rituals, venomous lovers, and heartbreak in the animal kingdom” in a spectacular setting.
We are also featuring Lisa Amador of Amador Matchmaking who knew she had found her calling when her first two clients got married, that’s “when hope, a little bit of chutzpah, and real success solidified my path as a matchmaker.” Lisa also shares with us the most romantic date spots in our beautiful San Diego.
And as there is nothing so sweet as the love of a rescued pet, we are happy to tell you the story of Jazzy and the PET Program at the Helen Woodward Animal Center spreading love to those in need.
SDJJ is proud to present a new addition to our magazine, Teen Voices, in which local high school writers are invited to express their thoughts, ideas and opinions on topics meaningful to their lives. This issue will feature two of the budding journalists who have written with love about our Holocaust survivors and the importance of carrying their stories into the future. Welcome, we are happy to have you and to share you with our readers.
I’ll close with the last stanza of e.e. cummings’ “i carry your heart with me” —
here is the deepest secret nobody knows (here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows higher than soul can hope or mind can hide) and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart) A
BY LINDA BENNETT & EMILY BARTELL
We just got back from the San Diego International Jewish Film Festival’s “Sneak Peek Day” at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre in the LFJCC, where we watched trailers for the films from this year’s 36th Annual International Jewish Film Festival. Such a great array of offerings this year! Films about Elie Wiesel, Henrietta Szold and films reflecting on Oct. 7, 2023. Some of those enjoying the presentation along with us were Amy Stern, Carol Fox, Cynthia and Arthur Birnbaum, Susan Harrison, Sylvana Christy, Jane Siegel, Robin Rubin and Bruce Lindsay, Joyce Camiel, Brice Westphall, and Vanessa Paniak
The Jewish Federation of San Diego Women’s Philanthropy Brunch Club came together on Dec. 4 at Congregation Beth Israel for a wonderful program of learning with Former Police Chief Shelly Zimmerman and Community Security Director Bill Ganley. The program focused on preparedness and creating a secure and resilient community. We also participated in “Stop the Bleed,” a hands-on preparedness training. This outstanding program was very well attended, and we were happy to join in with others, including Tracy Tomson, Suzanne Moss-High, Ellen Edwards, Diane Schachat, Jessica Effress, Emily Green, Nelly Dean, Glenda Sachs, and Nancy Gordon
During our week at the Jewish Author Series, some of those we ran into were Amy and Bill Morris, Hannah Platt, Jeff Platt, Sheryl Rowling, Orly and Gideon Shakked, Pamela Nathan, Jane Zeer, Laurie Ratner, Phyllis Epstein, Carla Berg, Elaine and Mark Smith,
Eileen Wingard, Marcia and David Wollner, Springsong Cooper, Rebecca Levin, Wayne Gelber, Eva Freeman, Barbara and Terry Rakov, Sharon and Harvey Cohan, Daniel Mayer, Barbara Giammona, Barbara and Norman Rozansky, Elisabeth Klein, Judy Rosenthal, Berdele and Richard Katz, and Shelly Kolarovsky (13 yrs).
Stand With Us “Leaders of Tomorrow” Gala, on Nov. 16 at the Hilton Bayfront, was such an entertaining and informative program. Honoring a number of significant San Diego leaders, the evening culminated with keynote speaker Michael Rapaport, an American actor and comedian.
Mazel Tov to Rebecca and Brian Farber on the birth of their son, Lincoln Carl, in Nov. Older sibling, Reagan Everlee, was thrilled with the arrival of her brother. Grandmother Eileen Weinrib was overjoyed.
Mazel Tov to Jacqueline Coden and Jeff Small on their marriage. The ceremony on Oct. 11 in Santa Luz was officiated by Jacqueline’s dad, Dan Coden. Jacqueline’s mom, Liz Coden, was absolutely thrilled.
Mazel Tov to Leo Arenson on being called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah in New York City on Nov. 8. Leo is the son of San Diego native Adam Arenson and Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal. Leo’s siblings are Simon and Maddie. Grandparents are Penny and Paul Arenson, Ruth Jarmel, and Irving Rosenthal
Thursday, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.: San Diego Jewish History Walking Tours led by Dr. Joellyn Zollman will journey to Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park in Old Town.
Thursday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m.: LFJCC will present Gideon Bernstein, author of “Giving: A Handbook to Happiness for the Modern Philanthropist” which combines personal stories, science and practical tips to help readers find purpose through giving.
Alan Spector celebrating his 84th birthday. Ilene Silvers celebrating her 89th birthday.
Wedding Anniversaries with infinite love & happiness, Mazel Tov to…
Sarah and Thomas Karp, 56 years.
Berdele and Richard Katz, 56 years.
Michaele and Stanford Shapiro, 55 years.
Medical misadventures, Jewish wit and real-life storytelling in one hilarious evening of stand up.
Dr. Maisel knows the heart inside and out. For decades, the former cardiologist treated the sickest patients at the VA hospital and pioneered a lifesaving diagnostic test. He also knows laughter is powerful medicine.
In a comedic coming-of-age story, Maisel draws on a life of outrageous experiences, from growing up as one of the only Jewish kids in rural Michigan (I was basically a ‘Jewnicorn’), to wrestling racists in medical school, to sewing up a postpartum episiotomy a little too complete.
Maisel’s performance pulses with rhythm and sharp punch lines that keep audiences roaring from start to finish. The result is fast-paced stand up that is equal parts heart and hilarity.
COMPILED BY SUSAN EDELSTEIN
by Larry Luxner, JTA News
An estimated 20,000 Venezuelan Jews fled after Maduro’s predecessor, Hugo Chávez, came to power in 1998 and began slowly bankrupting what was once Latin America’s most prosperous economy while also adopting antisemitic rhetoric that has persisted since.
At one time, Venezuela was home to some 25,000 Jews. Today, no more than 4,000 remain. They were among an estimated 8 million Venezuelans, nearly one-third of the population, who have emigrated, constituting the
largest refugee exodus in modern history — even bigger than from war-torn Syria.
“It sounds like wishful thinking to go back to old times. Eight million people have left Venezuela. There’s no other example in world history like this,” said Sammy Eppel, 78, a Venezuelan Jew living in Florida. “Families have been completely destroyed — so it’s too early to start speaking about the idea of returning.”
by Austin Reid Albanese, JTA News
In December 1778, as the American Revolution still raged, a Jewish writer in Charlestown opened a newspaper and saw Jews made into wartime scapegoats.
He did not let this accusation go unanswered. He responded in print. And he signed his reply with a line that declared both his patriotism and his devotion to Judaism: “A real American, and True hearted Israelite.”
These sources matter in a 250th anniversary year: The paper record preserves both early prejudice and early practices of public belonging, and provides a template for what Jews can anticipate in the face of attacks, like the recent arson at a synagogue in Jackson, Mississippi.
Belonging has never been guaranteed; it has been defended. The “true hearted Israelite” offers an enduring lesson: when prejudice is spoken, and you have the power to answer, you answer.
He sold a house to Justin Bieber. Now this LA investor has given Chabad $100M to build one of the world’s largest Jewish centers.
by Asaf Elia-Shalev, JTA News
A Los Angeles real estate investor known for selling homes to celebrities has donated a $100 million office tower to Chabad, the global Orthodox Jewish outreach movement, to create what is slated to become one the world’s largest Jewish centers.
Alon Abady and his wife, Monique,
transferred the 16-story, 300,000-square-foot complex at 9911 W. Pico Blvd. to Chabad of California, which plans to transform it into the Chabad Campus for Jewish Life. The property sits in the PicoRobertson neighborhood, the heart of Jewish Los Angeles.
Chabad officials say the building was appraised last fall at $103 million, making it one of the largest single gifts ever to a Jewish organization. The new campus is expected to serve as a regional hub for Jewish religious life, social services and education, as well as a global center for the Lubavitch movement’s worldwide network of emissaries.
The campus will include a synagogue, life-cycle venues, youth and senior programs, mental-health and social services, museums and support for Jewish students on college campuses, along with facilities for large communal and international gatherings.
“It will be an epicenter of Jewish life,” said Rabbi Chaim Nochum Cunin, one of the leaders of West Coast Chabad. “It will transform the landscape of Jewish life in Los Angeles and throughout the world.”
“This is a lifelong dream.” Abady said in a statement. “When my family immigrated to Los Angeles in the 1970s, Chabad was there for us. That was never forgotten.”
by Andrew Silow Carroll, JTA News
In his biography, “Philip Roth: Stung by Life,” Stanford historian Steven J. Zipperstein writes, “He would probe nearly every aspect of contemporary Jewish life: the passions of Jewish childhood, the pleasures and anguish of postwar Jewish suburbia, Israel, diaspora, the Holocaust, circumcision,
the interplay between the nice Jewish boy and the turbulent one deep inside.”
Roth “closes his eyes to nothing. He shows how truth and illusion coexist, how clarity is always fragile. And he does it with language that’s alive. That’s why he’s still with us.”
by Andrea Simantov | andreasimantov@gmail.com
The dishwasher broke, and the repairman fixed it, but in fact, he didn’t, and I did not want a credit for future repair jobs in lieu of hard cash. Upon considering the stress toll of dealing with someone whom I discovered was both unqualified and unpleasant, I uttered the malleable Hebrew phrase, “Kaparah — let it be for an atonement.” In Yiddish, we might say, “In drerd mein gelt.” (My money went down the drain.). Nevertheless, I have a preference for kaparah because ideally, it serves as a substitute for any sins I may have already committed or will be committing. Let the dishwasher be a kaparah against bad karma.
And while I do not plan on living without an electric dishwasher for very long, there is something liberating about having a super-large and hidden dishrack. Call me Pollyanna, but as a consequence of having to sink manicured fingers into soapy-and-soiled water each night, my meals are now one-dish epicurean feasts, in lieu of seven-pot, multi-plate repasts that both the husband and guests have come to expect. Dish-scrubbing glee aside, the cleaning lady Marina — who did not know that Windex and furniture polish are not interchangeable — returned to Russia with nary a mention. I’m not certain whether it was the Mossad or immigration authorities who were after her, but I received a hastily jotted note from a stopover in Uzbekistan that merely stated, “I love you. Call my friend
Yvegnia to take my place.” If Yvegnia is twice as good as Marina, she is terrible. Instead, I bought a dual-purpose greasecutting/bright-shine floor product and excitedly envisioned glistening tiles in a Home & Gardens abode that smelled, subtly, of hyacinth and jasmine. I’ll let you know how it goes if I ever use it. As for the cleaning lady? Kaparah!
Feeling upbeat and a little selfrighteous about turning lemons into lemonade, next on the checklist was hitting the supermarket for a few last-minute items for Shabbat. Feeling quite lofty (not to be confused with self-righteous), I wafted through the aisles, grabbing crackers for kiddush, mushrooms and cheese for quiche and — you guessed it! — additional cleaning items.
Almost home, the police pulled me over. My breathing became shallow and rapid and I stammered, “Do you mean me?” Just like television, I was asked for my license, registration and proof of insurance. I had it all and was wearing my seatbelt, the cell phone was in my purse and I stared at the windshield, blinking back tears for something I couldn’t name. I have never, ever been pulled over by the police, and I behaved like a blathering idiot. I forgot how to speak Hebrew during this uncomfortable interchange, thus needing to compound the humiliation by calling my husband and asking him to talk to the officers. All’s well that ends well, however. My car is so old that it needs to be inspected twice a year now and, apparently,
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by Trevor James McNeil tremcneil1980@gmail.com
Things don’t always go according to plan, but often what happens instead of well-structured and strived-for ambition is the good stuff, or at least what we become known for. The perpetually stony-faced author and screenwriter William Goldman is no exception. Born into an affluent Jewish family in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park in 1931, Goldman’s father, Maurice, did exceedingly well in business, supporting their family on a single income while his mother, Marion, was a homemaker. An apple pie American dream right up until Goldman’s teens, when, after years of alcoholism that ruined him financially, Maurice Goldman committed suicide, leaving Goldman and Marion, who was deaf, without an income. It was William who found the body, somewhat explaining his serious directness, as well as a slightly dark, selfdeprecating sense of humor.
Goldman’s primary interest was in prose fiction and, no stranger to slaps of cold reality, he learned the harsh realities of the publishing industry early, being told by the editor of the campus magazine at Oberlin College where Goldman got his B.A., “We can’t possibly publish this shit.”
Fortune laughing at the young man, Goldman was then drafted into the U.S. Army to go kick the Commies back across the northern border in Korea. In an unexpected twist of plot, he was given a relatively safe position as a clerk at the Pentagon because he could type, towing
Goldman [published] the multi-generational enduring and endearing phenomenon of ‘The Princess Bride’ in 1973.
the line well enough to be honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal by the end of the war. Given the chance to continue his education on account of the G.I. Bill, he earned a master’s degree in English at Columbia in 1956, writing his thesis on “The American Comedy of Manners.” He continued to make submissions of short stories throughout grad school, finding little success.
A change in format led to a change in fortunes with his first novel, “The Temple of God,” in 1957. This was followed closely by novel number two in 1958, “Your Turn to Curtsy, My Turn to Bow,” directly drawing on his thesis topic in terms of the absurdities of arbitrary etiquette. A minor hit despite
few reviews, Goldman’s second attempt at literary immortality would go on to be reprinted in 14 separate editions. Things picked up for his short fiction, too; his story “The Ice Cream Eat” was picked up by The Transatlantic Review in late 1959.
As prolific as he could be uncompromising, Goldman just kept on truckin’, publishing four full- length novels, including “No Way To Treat A Lady” and the first book in the “The Thing of It Is...” series helpfully titled “The Thing of It Is...” (1967) as well as starting his now famous film writing career with jobs on an adaptation of “Flowers for Algernon” as well as “Masquerade” (1965), “Harper” (1966), “Charly” (1968), and “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1967), between 1960 and 1970. He even found time to squeeze in an article for The New York Times Book Review titled “The Good-Bye Look” and his first nonfiction book, “The Season: A Candid Look at Broadway,” both in 1969.
The 1970s kicked off with a bang, Goldman publishing “Father’s Day,” his first novel since “The Thing of It Is...” in 1971, before unleashing the multigenerational, enduring and endearing phenomenon of “The Princess Bride,” a faux-academic retelling of a supposedly real medieval fable based on fictional sources, in 1973.
Continuing apace, he then wrote the original novel of “Marathon Man” as the first part of the Babe Levy series in 1974. He also branched out for a brief but
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I had neglected to do this. I was given a warning before being sent on my sheepish way. Kaparah.
Upon arriving home with my groceries, I swung into pre-Shabbat action by hauling out the food processor. Grating carrots for both cake and cabbage salad, the ancient workhorse inexplicably began to smoke, some plastic melted and it emitted a final belch and gasp. Kaparah.
What is Shabbat without homemade challah? A Shabbat with store-bought challah — because the next mystery that revealed itself was a missing mixing
blade from my trusty Black & Decker breadmaker. Where was this small piece that was never removed from the mixing bowl? Is it in a piece of luggage that has already passed through Uzbekistan and is now being unloaded in Tashkent? Is this another opportunity for me to find the silver lining in an otherwise cloudy sky before uttering, for the umpteeth time, “Kaparah”? Yesh gvul: ENOUGH ALREADY!
Perspective is the key. We are the children of Oct. 7 — Houthi dodgers, targets of Iranian missiles, bomb shelter denizens. We know how to laugh in the
face of petty grievances because we know the value of life. Dishwashers? Housekeepers? Cars? Food processors and bread machines? Pshaw, pshaw. A day in the life might be peppered with disagreeable moments, but a day in the life also is rife with Heaven’s blessings and miracles. A
New York-born Andrea Simantov moved to Israel 29 years ago. She is a small-business owner and both a print and media journalist. Her popular podcast, “Pull Up a Chair,” is produced by Israel News Talk Radio. She can be reached at andrea@israelnewstalkradio.com.
Literature continued
deeply affecting children’s book, “Wigger,” about an orphan who loses her blankie before having it returned through near miraculous means. By 1976, Goldman was writing the screen adaptation of “Marathon Man” and the original screenplay for “All The President’s Men,” both films serving as vehicles for an early-career Dustin Hoffman, followed by the screenplay for the classic WWII epic “A Bridge Too Far,” and later, a nonfiction guide titled “The Story of ‘A Bridge Too Far’” in 1977.
By the late 1970s, Goldman had mostly returned to novels, publishing five stand-alone titles and the follow-ups to “The Thing of It Is...” and “Marathon Man” between 1976 and 1986, briefly returning to film with the screenplay for the indelible pop culture phenomenon that was the film adaptation of “The Princess Bride” in 1987.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Goldman shifted his attention to nonfiction, publishing two memoirs, “Wait Till Next Year” (1988) and “Hype and Glory” (1990), and the essay collections, “Which Lie Did I Tell: More Adventures in the Screen Trade” (2000) and “The Big Picture: Who Killed Hollywood? and Other Essays” (2001), before settling into well deserved retirement at 70. Goldman died in 2018 of colon cancer at the age of 87. A
Growing up in the far north, Trevor James McNeil had little to do other than read when the temperature went below 40 Celsius, and he developed an affinity for stories of all sorts. Graduating from the University of Victoria in 2009, he has been reading and writing in a professional capacity since. He lives in a cabin in the woods with his dog, and firmly believes The Smiths would have been better as a trio.
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SEACREST FOUNDATION PRESENTS THE 2026 WOMEN’S AUXILIARY
SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2026
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Luncheon, an inspiring event that celebrates wellness, wisdom, and connection. Guests will be treated to a champagne reception with beauty and wellness experts, breathtaking coastal views, a heartfelt panel of Seacrest Village residents sharing their personal “secrets” to happiness, health, and longevity, and a luncheon and program with featured speakers.
tickets $150 /person
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learn more and register at seacrestvillage.org/goldenhearts2026
Proceeds from this very special event will provide charitable care for Seacrest Village residents who may have nowhere else to turn for help.
by Makayla Hoppe
For over 150 years, the San Diego Natural History Museum has been a pioneer in educating Southern Californians about our local ecosystem, flora and fauna, paleontology and more. While all are welcome to visit and explore, the museum has always had a special interest in teaching children. However, in 2017, museum organizers looked to emphasize and welcome adult visitors with a new event: The Secret Society of Adultologists. This new program would be for the 21+ crowd and feature creative themes, fun costumes, innovative cocktails and more.
“The museum is always trying to come up with new ideas,” said Senior Manager of Community Engagement Olivia Poulos. “Nature is for everyone, and we want everybody to care about nature in San Diego County and the Baja Peninsula. Anything that we can do to attract a new audience, we are going to try, and that is where the impetus behind Secret Society is — that it’s a 21+ event. We’re getting in a different adult audience.”
Over the years, the Secret Society has covered themes surrounding Halloween, Alice in Wonderland, Adult Summer Camp, Prehistoric Prom and more. For 2026, the museum is focusing on
The Secret Society of Adultologists is a fun evening filled with crafted cocktails, costumes and lots of scientific learning along the way.
Valentine’s Day with the titillating event Love Bites.
Love Bites takes place on February 13 and “will take you through the seductive science of mating rituals, venomous lovers, and heartbreak in the animal kingdom.”
“We have a chance to kind of be fun, creative, and think outside the box a little bit,” Olivia said. “And, as I think you’ll see with this one, have kind of a different, more adult topic content for the event itself. So, it really is that fun, different way that people get to interact with the museum space at night.”
The event will feature SDNHM areas such as the birds and mammals department, the botany department, the herpetology department, the research library and the invertebrate zoology team.
“They’re all doing something slightly different, and I’ve heard lots of fun ideas so far,” Olivia said. “Our invertebrate zoology, which is another name for entomology... they’ll be talking about jumping spider mating rituals. Our herpetology team will talk about male rattlesnakes fighting — all sorts of things that kind of connect the Valentine’s theme to nature and all that fun stuff.”
The Secret Society of Adultologists events take place over multiple floors of the museum, including the roof. Bars are
scattered throughout and will feature creative cocktails available for purchase.
“We have our internal bar team here at the museum, so you can bet they’re coming up with some fun stuff...cool on-theme cocktails and mocktails for everybody.”
One of the biggest draws of the Secret Society is the encouragement to dress up in costume or fun attire as you see fit. This year, the museum encourages guests to “dress to impress — or to distress.”
“Folks are welcome to come really in any kind of costume,” Olivia said. “This [year] is kind of leaning a little bit vampire-esque. So, people are welcome to dress up however they want...We might have some people in dresses, suits or whatever feels right for them. This should really be people’s opportunity to have fun and wear that thing in their closet that they’ve been saving.”
For the San Diego Natural History Museum, teaching has always been at the heart of what they do. But who’s to say you can’t teach with a little bit of flair? The Secret Society of Adultologists is a fun evening filled with crafted cocktails, costumes and lots of scientific learning along the way.
“Hopefully, this should just be a fun event,” Olivia said. “It really is for everyone 21+. It should be a different way for people to explore our exhibits and connect with our community partners and science staff. That’s really at the heart of it. This event is about having that different lens on the science and the nature that we’re promoting, and hopefully that will really connect with a lot of people.”
by Susan Edelstein
Matchmaking is the practice of arranging marriages. It has existed for thousands of years across continents and cultures with roots in ancient civilizations like China, India and Japan. The purpose was to forge alliances and consolidate families to ensure political, social and economic status. In Medieval Europe, Jewish matchmaking grew as a result of the violence and unrest caused by the crusades. Jewish shadkhans functioned as good-will ambassadors between families and played a pivotal role in protecting and maintaining the continuity of the Jewish people.
Today, professional matchmaking is experiencing a resurgence which seems to be in direct correlation to singles’ disillusionment with the dating apps. This is especially true for young professionals who value their time and want to meet others who share their values and lifestyles, without the hassle of endless swiping and disappointing dates. Lisa Amador, founder of Amador Matchmaking, has expanded her Santa Barbara business into San Diego and I’m sure our singles will be delighted both with her approach to finding true love and her commitment to the art of matchmaking. Thank you, Lisa, for taking the time to answer some questions for SDJJ.
SDJJ: Probably everyone asks this first, but how did you decide on matchmaking as a career?
Lisa Amador: Matchmaking entered my life during a period of major transition. I was navigating a separation from my husband of 18 years, our home was facing a short sale, and the business I had been working for had just closed. It was a season of uncertainty, but also one that quietly opened the door to something new.
At the same time, I was listening to my best friend share stories about her work in matchmaking. What began as casual curiosity quickly grew into an interest. She saw potential in me before I fully recognized it myself, and not only encouraged me to pursue matchmaking but also trained me and helped me launch my own business.
The moment I knew I had found my calling was when I got my first two clients married. That’s when everything came into focus. When hope, a little bit of chutzpah, and real success solidified my path as a matchmaker.
SDJJ: What did you do to become a professional in this field?
LA: I approached matchmaking with the same seriousness I would bring to any
professional career. I became certified through the Matchmaking Institute in New York and trained as a ScienceBased Dating Coach, while continuing to deepen my knowledge in communication and relationship dynamics.
Beyond formal training, the most valuable education has come from experience. Working closely with thousands of singles has given me a deep understanding of real-life dating challenges, personal patterns, and what people truly need to build lasting relationships. Over time, listening has become just as crucial as any credential, because it’s through those conversations that you learn how love really works beyond theory.
SDJJ: What do you think is causing the shift away from dating apps?
LA: Many singles are experiencing burnout from the app culture. Swiping creates the illusion of endless choice, but not necessarily a meaningful connection. People are realizing that convenience doesn’t always lead to fulfillment.
There’s also a broader cultural shift happening. More singles are prioritizing values, emotional compatibility, and intentional dating over quick matches. They’re looking for depth, not just access, and that’s where more personalized
approaches to meeting people are stepping in.
SDJJ: How does your vetting process weed out undesirables?
LA: Our clients are highly desirable individuals seeking partners who enhance their lives rather than complicate them. Through a one-hour interview, I can determine whether someone is ready for matchmaking, better suited for coaching, or not aligned with our process.
That assessment is guided by a combination of professional training, years of experience, and intuition. We look beyond surface-level success and focus on character, emotional readiness, and the ability to show up as a true partner. This approach helps ensure that the people we work with are genuinely prepared for meaningful relationships.
SDJJ: I like your use of the term “headhunter,” it implies seriousness. What are the top five qualities you seek in your clients?
LA: I use the word “headhunter” intentionally because finding a life partner deserves the same level of care and intention as finding the right CEO for a company. continues on next page >>
These settings create space for presence, conversation and authenticity, which naturally encourage more genuine connection from the start.
The qualities I look for most are emotional availability, personal accountability, kindness in action, openness to opportunities they may not have chosen for themselves, and respect for the process. When clients come in with that mindset, the journey becomes far more meaningful and far more successful.
SDJJ: How many of your clients are in need of coaching? How would you describe your coaching process?
LA: Most people benefit from coaching at some point in their dating journey. Not because something is wrong, but because self-awareness changes outcomes.
My coaching process is centered on clarity, compassion and intention. When clients understand who they are, what makes them a great partner, and how to express their needs, desires and emotions with confidence and care, they create the foundation for a healthy, lasting relationship.
SDJJ: The idea of a mixer with compatible people feels safe and personalized. How do you orchestrate this?
LA: We approach events the same way we approach matchmaking, with intention and care.
We keep guest lists thoughtfully sized, select venues that encourage conversation rather than noise, and
gather attendee information in advance so introductions feel natural. We also manage ticket sales carefully to maintain a healthy balance between women and men, creating a more comfortable and engaging experience for everyone. These aren’t crowded mixers designed for volume; they’re curated experiences designed for genuine connection.
SDJJ: What is a wellness date?
LA: A wellness date is a connection with intention. Instead of loud bars or rushed dinners, think walking on the beach, a yoga class, a cold plunge, a hike, or even a meditation experience together.
These settings create space for presence, conversation and authenticity, which naturally encourage more genuine connection from the start.
SDJJ: You describe your business model as “heart-centered.” Can you explain this model?
LA: A heart-centered model means people always come first, not just in theory, but in every choice we make. We constantly ask ourselves, “ Is this what I would want for someone I love?”
When empathy and integrity guide the process, the result is something powerful. Clients don’t just feel supported, they feel seen. And that’s when a real connection becomes possible.
SDJJ: Your core value is “excellence with heart.” How do you determine this in clients?
LA: I see excellence with heart in the quiet details. In how someone treats a server, how they talk about an ex, how they carry themselves when things don’t go their way, and how naturally they say thank you.
It’s not about being flawless. It’s about being kind, accountable and emotionally present. That’s the kind of love that truly lasts.
SDJJ: As Valentine’s Day is approaching, I must ask, what are the most romantic date spots in San Diego?
LA: San Diego is such a gift when it comes to romance. You can create something truly special without trying too hard, just by choosing the right setting.
For timeless favorites that never disappoint, Mister A’s offers sweeping city views that instantly elevate the mood, The Marine Room delivers candlelight and crashing waves at sunset, and a stroll through the gardens at Balboa Park feels effortlessly romantic.
If you want something a little more current and fun, Starlite brings a cool, intimate energy perfect for a flirty first date, while Oceana Coastal Kitchen offers beautiful coastal vibes and relaxed elegance that invite great conversation. And for pure charm, Old Venice in Point Loma is one of those hidden gems, cozy, candlelit, and perfect for a classic, romantic evening.
And of course, for couples who love something simple and memorable, a beach bonfire in Coronado can be one of the most magical date experiences under the stars.
In the end, the most romantic dates aren’t about impressing, they’re about intention. When you choose a place that helps people slow down, feel comfortable, and truly see each other, that’s when romance has room to grow. A
by Monica Cohen
Each year, as the world pauses to mark Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, we are called not only to mourn the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, but to confront the sacred duty that memory demands. For Jews in the diaspora, this day is not a distant echo of history but rather an active reminder. We are the inheritors of memory; we are the caretakers of stories that must be retold.
As the number of living survivors dwindles, the weight of remembrance shifts more heavily onto our shoulders. Their testimonies, once spoken in trembling voices across classrooms, auditoriums, and synagogues now live in recordings, books and art. But their memories are no longer static. They must be nourished, reawakened, and passed on with intention. To remember is not merely to look back, it is to reflect, to teach, to “re-witness.”
One of the most impactful depictions of these memories is found not in words, but in lines of charcoal and pencil. Yehuda Bacon is a survivor of Auschwitz who turned to art not only to process his trauma, but to preserve the truth. Among his works is “To the Man Who Restored My Belief in Humanity.” In it,
Bacon depicts a moment of unexpected compassion. This art is dedicated to Pitter Přemysl, an educator who devoted himself to saving Jewish children before/ after the Holocaust. As Bacon describes, “Pitter was a wonderful person, and it was he, in my opinion, who saved us from the horror of the past. That was the first time that we gave our trust to another human.”
This drawing is delicate, as if the memory itself might vanish if not carefully held. It is more than art — it is testimony. It successfully highlights the duality of the Holocaust. On Yom HaShoah, we must remember the cruelty of what happened while being proud of our ability to keep spreading our light. Bacon’s piece radiates the possibility of goodness, even in the darkest moments. Bacon does not romanticize the Holocaust, he does not forgive. But he reminds us that even amid horror, the flame of humanity’s morality flickers.
As Jews in the diaspora, we are positioned to carry that torch. We live in communities where Jewish life thrives, but that freedom comes with responsibility. We must teach our children the history of the Shoa, the
As the number of living survivors dwindles, the weight of remembrance shifts more heavily onto our shoulders.
events that occurred, and the names of the people who survived them. We must support museums, listen to survivor testimonies, read their memoirs, and share their stories at our Shabbat tables. We must challenge antisemitism wherever and whenever it is presented, not just when it is convenient.
Like Yehuda Bacon, we must find ways to translate memory into art, music, literature and activism. Even by simply retelling the stories, because memory that is not expressed becomes memory that is lost. Holocaust Remembrance Day is not only about the past, it is about the future we shape through the choices we make today. In a world where hate still finds a way to resurface, our remembrance must be stronger.
Let us listen. Let us remember. Let us speak. Let us act. For the survivors that are still among us, and for those whose voices were silenced, we will never forget. A
Monica Cohen is 17 years old and a junior at the San Diego Jewish Academy. She is interested in public health science (specifically behavioral and nutritional science) and psychology. Outside of school, she loves spending time with her friends, discovering new hobbies, and trying new things.
by Jessica Gercke
There are countless reasons why canines are considered the best friend a human can have, from unconditional love to documented proof that their companionship can help lower blood pressure and decrease depression. In particular, the love of a rescued pet is arguably even sweeter as both the dog and its adopter are aware of the frightening and scary beginnings a homeless pet can experience.
Perhaps no story captures this bond more beautifully than that of an adopted Spaniel-blend named Jazzy and her human mother, Judi. The two met at Helen Woodward Animal Center, and the love they share has continued to grow and now expands outward. Judi adopted Jazzy from Helen Woodward Animal Center in November of 2014. A recent retiree, she had perused the Center website for months, looking at all the furry faces until her husband told her to get off the computer and go get herself a dog. Judi said that the connection was instant. She looked at several dogs but was struck by the “most beautiful,
soulful eyes” of Jazzy. Twelve years later, Judi says that those eyes still move her. What Judi didn’t plan on was the loss of her beloved husband and the way Jazzy would help her through the grief. Suddenly, it was just Jazzy and Judi. She had lost the great love of her life, but she was not alone. “She seemed to understand exactly what I needed,” said Judi. “She worked extra hard to add bits of joy to every day. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without her.”
Jazzy’s love, so instrumental in helping her through the grief, was the same love that Judi knew she had to share in Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Pet Encounter Therapy program (PET). PET is, in essence, “cuddle therapy.” The program regularly brings the unconditional love and tactile benefits of animals to clients inside skilled nursing facilities, children’s shelters, hospitals, psychiatric units and many more. Judi knew that Jazzy would be a wonderful fit for the program and would be a great way to pay Jazzy’s love forward.
As of today, Jazzy and Judi have been a part of Helen Woodward Animal Center’s PET program for over 10 years — providing hundreds of visits, filling rooms with love, and bonding more every day. “Life can be difficult for some of the seniors that we visit,” said Judi, “and they often seem sad and withdrawn when we first enter. But then they see Jazzy and they light up in a way that is magical. Suddenly they are smiling, talking and sharing stories about the wonderful pets they have had in their lives and whatever they were sad about seems to fade away. It’s really beautiful.”
When asked why Judi thinks Jazzy is so perfect for the program, she simply said, “She knows how to love. Look at what she did for me.” A
For more information on Helen Woodward Animal Center adoptions or the Center’s Pet Encounter Therapy program, please call 858-756-4117, visit www.animalcenter.org or stop by at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe.
by Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort
Illustration by Pepe Fainberg
As the cofounder and director of Chabad at La Costa, it has been my honor to guide and lead our North County Jewish Center, together with my wife, Nechama, for close to 40 years. During the decades of community involvement, there has been growth, of which we are very proud. Baruch Hashem — thank G-d.
The growth has precipitated the need for a larger facility. We started in a congregant’s family room, then moved to a family room and dining room in a rented house. We then found an abandoned building that we were able to rent and convert into a modest spiritual home. When we were able to purchase the property, we initiated and successfully completed a building campaign, which entailed tearing down the old building and replacing it with our current structure.
After several years, we again needed to expand to enable us to offer enhanced programming for young children, youth and seniors. We added a floor to accommodate several new programs and activities, particularly Torah classes and an updated library for study and research (including a specially curated children’s Holocaust collection).
As I chose a career as a teacher and rabbi, building and then expanding a building were not even on my radar until my life’s journey necessitated some immersive learning experiences. I would love nothing more than to report every
Even with extensive and meticulous planning, one must learn to expect the unexpected.
facet of my foray into building projects has been smooth and simple.
Alas, that is simply not the case. Instead, what I have come to learn is that even with extensive and meticulous planning, one must learn to expect the unexpected. In fact, one must synergize a fragile combination of rigidity and flexibility, in order to get to the finish line. As the planning and building process unfolds, a host of unexpected situations arise. These situations can often result in the dreaded “change orders,” that often cost a lot of treasure and time to carry out. Through hiring the right people, one hopes to minimize the change orders, but sometimes they are unavoidable. When working on a non-profit budget, every penny is holy and precious, and so change orders can be particularly difficult to deal with. Nonetheless, the space under construction is needed to fulfill the purpose of the edifice.
When building a building, one learns that even small details can make a very big difference. Planning ahead, the stretching of one’s mind to look into the future, is a very precious commodity.
Having the right team assembled is paramount to a successful project. Keeping one’s focus on the final result of the project is essential to bringing it to the finish line. And, perhaps most importantly, seeing the finished project completed and being used for its intended purpose is one of the most rewarding events in one’s career. It is truly a beautiful thing!
The great Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, father of Chasidic philosophy, emphasized that we must learn from everything we experience and apply it in our service of the Creator. Not only should we learn from what happens to us directly, but what we see happen to others as well. It is my fervent prayer that our community learns the appropriate lessons from my building adventures. A
Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort co-directs, with his wife Rebbetzin Nechama Eilfort, Coastal Chabads, Chabad at La Costa, Encinitas, and Carlsbad North where everyone, regardless of level of knowledge or observance, feels cherished and loved. Rabbi Eilfort welcomes and encourages comments and questions: rabbie@chabadatlacosta.com.
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Learning through hands-on experience
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Every account reminds me that history is not distant and it is our responsibility to maintain it.
by Eliana Pupko Ginsberg
One day in school, I was sitting in the auditorium as Holocaust survivors came to speak. Their stories filled the room with a heavy sorrow and I trembled as their words hit my heart, and tears rolled down my face when they pulled up their sleeves and showed tattooed numbers, faded but always remaining.
Holocaust Remembrance Day is a time to reflect and honor the six million Jews whose lives were taken by the Nazi regime. This day is not only to remember the past, but also to see the lasting impact that this horrific event has left.
Going to a Jewish school, I have had the privilege to experience something powerful and rare. Every year, I get to sit in the presence of Holocaust survivors and listen to their stories, which not only carry grief, loss and pain, but also resilience and courage. Each and every story is a reminder that behind every statistic, there is a person whose life
was forever altered. Listening to each survivor turns dates and numbers into faces and names.
While being able to hear direct stories from those who survived is an honor, it also comes with the added weight that my generation is the last to hear the testimonies face to face. Lamentably, in the next couple of years, there will be no survivors left to be able to say, “I was there.” With their passing, the responsibility for carrying their stories l’dor vador (from generation to generation) lies with those who heard and learned.
This responsibility is not only substantial, it is also an honor. The survivors’ stories are not just to dwell upon, but to teach and protect future generations from letting history repeat itself.
Holocaust Remembrance Day is not only about looking at history, but also about looking into the future with
a purpose. Although the survivors may not be around anymore to speak to the future generations, their voices do not end here. I will always carry these stories with me and allow their voices to guide my actions. Every account reminds me that history is not distant and it is our responsibility to maintain it. Though their voices one day will no longer be heard, they will never be silenced. I am proud to be one of the last to hear about the courage and resilience that they lived, and to carry their stories into the future. A
Eliana Pupko is a 16-year-old junior at San Diego Jewish Academy. Her plan is to attend college and make an impact on campus. She hopes to spread love for Judaism and teach others about Jews as a people and Israel in a meaningful way.
Photos courtesy San Diego Jewish Academy.
by Andrew Lapin, JTA News
It was a “Supreme” Oscarnominations morning for Timothée Chalamet and the heavily Jewish period sports comedy he stars in.
“Marty Supreme” picked up nine Academy Award nominations, including best picture and best actor for the redhot Chalamet, the 30-year-old thespian who is seen as likely to nab his first Oscar for the role.
The film also earned nods for best director for Josh Safdie; original screenplay for Safdie and Ronald Bronstein; cinematography; editing; production design; and costumes.
“Marty Supreme” was also nominated in the brand-new category of best casting, acknowledging a supporting cast stacked with ringers, many of them Jewish — including Odessa A’zion, Gwyneth Paltrow, Fran Drescher, Sandra Bernhard and Isaac Mizrahi.
In addition, Jewish super-producer and director Steven Spielberg was nominated as a producer for best picture nominee “Hamnet,” which picked up eight nominations total.
A critical and box-office hit for distributor A24, “Marty Supreme” follows an aspiring ping-pong athlete
in the postwar Lower East Side as he prepares to sacrifice everything for the chance to play in the world championships in Japan.
It is loosely based on the story of Marty Reisman, a real-life Jewish ping-pong champion and street hustler, though much of the rollicking tale — which includes detours into Auschwitz and the Pyramids of Giza — is fictional. Marty’s journey also puts his own American Jewish identity under the microscope as he tangles with an antisemitic businessman and a dog named Moses.
The film is the most evident Jewish rooting interest among the Oscar front-runners this year, especially since beloved Jewish actor Adam Sandler — who memorably starred in Safdie’s previous film “Uncut Gems” — missed out on a supporting actor nomination for his work in “Jay Kelly.”
“Blue Moon,” a biopic of Jewish songwriter Lorenz Hart, picked up two nominations: best actor for Ethan Hawke and best original screenplay. Other films with prominent Jewish angles, including the World War II drama “Nuremberg,” came up empty-handed.
By contrast, last year’s nominations brought a slew of Jewish-interest selections including “The Brutalist,” “A Real Pain” and “A Complete Unknown,” the Bob Dylan biopic that also scored a nomination for Chalamet. Several of those films went on to win in major categories.
A few minor Jewish connections can be found in the year’s second-mostnominated film, Paul Thomas Anderson’s political-rebel action drama “One Battle After Another” (which picked up 13 nominations, second only to “Sinners” with 16).
The British Jewish composer and Radiohead band member Jonny Greenwood, who has faced backlash from some fans over his collaborations with Israeli musicians, was nominated for best score for the film. Israeli-American actress and musician Alana Haim, a frequent Anderson collaborator, also has a small role, and one of the movie’s storylines involves a secret cabal of white supremacists who restrict membership to the “Gentile-born.”
The Brazilian espionage drama “The Secret Agent,” nominated for four Oscars including best picture and best international feature, also notably features a cameo from recently deceased German actor Udo Kier. In one of his final roles, Kier plays a German Jewish refugee hiding out in Brazil whom the state’s fascist-friendly police force mistakenly believe is a Nazi.
The Safdies cast a longer shadow over the nominations. “The Smashing Machine,” a different sports biopic
directed by Benny Safdie — Josh’s brother, his collaborator on “Uncut Gems” and other films — was nominated for best makeup. And “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” directed by Jewish filmmaker Mary Bronstein and produced by her husband Ronald — a Safdie collaborator nominated this year for co-writing “Marty Supreme” — picked up a best actress nomination for star Rose Byrne.
Diane Warren, the Jewish songwriter and erstwhile Oscar nominee, was once again nominated — for the 17th time — in the category of best original song. This time, Warren’s nomination came from writing a song for “Diane Warren: Relentless,” a documentary about herself. A
Best Picture Marty Supreme
Best Actor Timothée Chalamet/Marty Supreme
Best Director Josh Safdie/Marty Supreme
Best Original Screenplay Josh Safdie, Ronald Bronstein/Marty Supreme
Cinematography Darius Khondji/Marty Supreme
Editing Ronald Bronstein, Josh Safdie/Marty Supreme
Production Design Jack Fisk, Adam Willis/Marty Supreme
Costumes Miyako Bellizzi/Marty Supreme
Best Casting Jennifer Venditti/Marty Supreme
Best Original Screenplay Robert Kaplow, Blue Moon
Best Actor Ethan Hawke/Blue Moon
Producer for Best Picture Steven Spielberg/Hamnet
Best Score Jonny Greenwood/One Battle After Another
Best Original Song Diane Warren/Diane Warren: Relentless
Best Actress Rose Byrne/If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
Best Makeup & Hairstyling Kazu Hiro, Glen Griffin, Bjoern Rehbein/ The Smashing Machine
This summer, San Dieg o Jewish Academy will ser ve as an official FIFA base camp for the Switzerland Men’s National Team during World Cup pre paration, while also offering UC Naturalist cer tification, Upper School summer courses, and diverse day camp prog ramming through Camp Car mel Creek for children 18 months through 8 g rade. th
SDJA’s ear l y childhood center welcomes children ag ed 14 months to five years old. T he offerings also include Parent and Child music classes for families with children as young as one month old, a Stroller Walking Club, and volunteer oppor tunities for g randparents to eng ag e with the students A new math cur riculum is guiding Lower School instr uction this year, emphasizing understanding and application over memorization. Expanded STEM oppor tunities including science c ompetitions and Math Club offer students additional ways to develop inquir y and problem-solving skills. New Upper School prog rams include expanded academic pathways, the Scholars Prog ram, and an Inde pendent Science Research Prog ram suppor ting student-led initiatives through mentorship and dedicated lab access At its core, SDJA is a premier inde pendent school focused on helping each student g row with intention academically, socially, and emotionally www.sdja.com
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Food BY MICAH SIVA
SERVES 8
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
• 2 medium carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple, roughly chopped, peel on
• 2 14 oz cans pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon Hungarian paprika
• ½ teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon orange zest
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup full fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon white miso
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Spicy Paprika Oil
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Hungarian sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
1. In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until it begins to soften.
3. Add the garlic, carrots and apple. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until they begin to soften and the onion is translucent.
4. Add the pumpkin puree to the pot and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it darkens slightly. Sprinkle the paprika, coriander, cinnamon and orange zest, mixing to combine.
5. Add the vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and reduce to simmer, uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Remove the bay leaf.
6. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth, or transfer the soup to a blender until smooth, working in batches, if necessary.
7. Return the soup to the pot, and whisk in the coconut milk and miso. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Make the Oil
1. Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Once it begins to form small bubbles around the sides of the pan, add the paprika and chili flakes, whisking to incorporate. Remove from heat, and let it come to room temperature, at least 10 minutes.
2. Strain using a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a glass jar fitted with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
BY EILEEN SONDAK
newvillagearts.org
New Village Arts is venturing into the realm of sci-fi for the San Diego premiere of “The Apiary,” a thoughtprovoking play that delves into a not-so-distant future where bees are nearly extinct. This cautionary tale is slated to remain on the boards through Feb. 22
NEW VILLAGE ARTS: “The Apiary.”
lambsplayers.org
“A Trip to Bountiful,” an emotionallycharged adventure story about returning to your roots, will continue at the Lamb’s Coronado home through March 1
lajollaplayhouse.org
La Jolla Playhouse will be serving up a delicious world premiere on Feb. 10 “Recipe,” based on a book by Bob Spitz, follows renowned chef Julia Child from her early days in Pasadena to Paris, where Child honed her skills at the celebrated Cordon Bleu and found true love. “Recipe” runs through March 22
theoldglobe.org
The Old Globe will start the season off on a high note with a new version of “Hedda Gabler.” In this enduring classic, by the time Hedda returns from her honeymoon, she is already aware that her life is headed in the wrong direction — and her efforts to control things may not be enough to change course. This emotion-packed take on Ibsen’s groundbreaking masterpiece will keep audiences on the edge of their seats from Feb. 7 through March 15 — with the mesmerizing Katie Holmes starring in the title role.
Fiasco Theater is returning to the Globe’s White Theatre on Feb. 20 with a Globe-commissioned world premiere, titled “Bartleby,” adapted from a work by Herman Melville. This side-splitting exploration of work and will has a very contemporary twist and a generous helping of the absurd. You can enter Bartleby’s exciting world through March 15
broadwaysd.com
Broadway San Diego has two offerings this month. Starting Feb. 12, “Mark Twain Tonight” starring Richard Thomas in Hal Holbrook’s clever one-man show, is a delightful display of Twain’s wry humor and candid observations. On Feb. 24, “Beetlejuice The Musical” returns to the Civic Theatre. Based on the iconic film by Tim Burton, this hilarious musical will deliver theatrical fun with a ghostly twist through March 1
sdopera.org
The San Diego Opera returns to the Civic Theatre this month with a lively production of “The Barber of Seville.” This high-voltage operatic delight follows a Count on his quest to woo the diabolically clever Rosina. With the help of the wily barber, Figaro, there’s a happy ending — but not before the opera delivers a lot of laughs through mistaken identities and razor-sharp wit. Along the way, you will enjoy some of Rossini’s most memorable arias. The opera will run Feb. 13-15
theconrad.org
Hawaiian singer and four-time Grammy winner Kalani Pe’a will perform on Feb. 15. On Feb. 26, nature lovers will enjoy photographer Keith Ladzinski’s “Forces of Nature” as part of the speaker series. Pianist Mao Fujita ends the month on Feb. 27
cygnettheatre.com
Cygnet Theatre will bring “Somewhere Over the Border” to its new home in Liberty Station on Feb. 18. This uplifting play is a heartwarming tale of a family in search of the American dream. The play is a unique mixture of magical charm and “The Wizard of Oz,” with a lively score to propel the plot. The show will continue through March 15.
juniortheatre.com
San Diego Junior Theatre is gearing up to unveil “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon,” playing at the Casa del Prado from Feb. 27 through March 15. This appealing show revolves around the journey of a brave young girl determined to change her family’s fortune.
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COMPILED BY SUSAN EDELSTEIN
There’s no symbol that better represents Valentine’s Day, or Philly itself, than the LOVE sculpture in Center City.
“Our LOVE sculpture is a major part of Philadelphia’s identity — both physically in terms of our downtown landscape, and in the way that we connect emotionally with our city. It represents the best of Philadelphia and our deep affection for our hometown,” Margot Berg, the longtime Public Art Director of the City of Philadelphia Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, said.
Also referred to as just LOVE, the sculpture has stood tall in the background of countless selfies, marriage proposals, and wedding ceremonies at its post at 15th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard. It has been part of the stories of tourists and Philadelphians alike.
Robert Indiana, an eminent pop artist who gained fame in the 1960s, designed the LOVE logo as a Christmas card for the Museum of Modern Art in 1965. However, the image gained fame beyond this limited original use, and by the late 1960s, it had become an icon of the counterculture, with its “erotic, religious, autobiographical, and political underpinnings” (as
the MOMA website describes it). In 1970, Mr. Indiana created the first sculpture based on this design, an unpainted steel version that resides at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
The popularity of this original sculpture encouraged Indiana to recreate it worldwide in a variety of settings, including translations in a variety of languages, such as Chinese and Hebrew. In 1973, the design appeared on a United States postage stamp, and in 1976, a LOVE sculpture was installed at 15th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard in Center City Philadelphia.
Since 1999, a LOVE sculpture has become a centerpiece of Penn’s campus, starring in countless photos and the gathering place for numerous events, from candlelight vigils to casual meetups. And in 1998, Philadelphia had gained another example of Robert Indiana’s work when the Association for Public Art installed an Amor statue at 18th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Indiana’s work continues to spread love every day! A
Sources: 6abc; Penn Almanac; Visit Philadelphia (press releases).
Phil Bresnick
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