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A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON THE OLD GLOBE FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE AT ISRAEL FEST

APRIL 2018

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

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contents

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April 2018 • www.lchaimmagazine.com

COVER STORY

Israel at 70...........................................................................................................................................................

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1000 WORDS Alan Dershowitz on Israel at 70: 'A Light Unto the World'.......................................................

FOOD KOSHEROLOGY: Bourbon-Besamim Oat Baked Apples...........................................................

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THE NEW OLD GLOBE

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14 22 24 25 26 27

FEATURES A New Perspective on The Old Globe..................................................................................................

Guest Commentary: AIPAC: A Miracle!................................................................................................

Community Page..............................................................................................................................................

Jewish Men's Choir..........................................................................................................................................

Alzheimer's San Diego.................................................................................................................................

BOURBONBESAMIM APPLES

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Friendship Circle................................................................................................................................................

COLUMNS Torah: Of the Book..........................................................................................................................................

Mazel and Mishagoss...................................................................................................................................

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FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO, LLC (858) 776-0550 San Diego, CA 92127

PUBLISHERS Diane Benaroya & Laurie Miller

ART DEPARTMENT lauriem@lchaimmagazine.com LISTINGS & CALENDAR: calendar@lchaimmagazine.com

EDITORIAL editor@lchaimmagazine.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alanna Maya

ADVERTISING dianeb@lchaimmagazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laurie Miller

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CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS info@lchaimmagazine.com

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CONTRIBUTORS Daniel Bortz, Donald H. Harrison, Stephanie Lewis, Salomon Maya, Mimi Pollack, Sharon Rapoport, Eva Trieger, Deborah Vietor, Chana Jenny Weisberg

ADVERTISING & SALES Diane Benaroya (dianeb@lchaimmagazine.com), Sharon Buchsbaum (sharonbux@gmail.com) 4

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

Copyright ©2018 L’Chaim San Diego LLC. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator” to: publisher@lchaimmagazine.com Find L’Chaim in your local:

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5

TORAH l BY RABBI DANIEL BORTZ

of

the book Our Relationship with the Divine

T

here are three Biblical holidays where the Jewish people would ascend to the Temple in Jerusalem to celebrate.

It begins with Sukkot in the fall, continuing to Passover in the spring, and ending with Shavuot — which commemorates the giving of the Torah. Shavuot is likened to a wedding between G-d and the Jewish People.

Our entire nation stood at Mt. Sinai — the wedding canopy, as G-d - the groom, wed His bride - the Jewish People, giving her a ring of betrothal - the Torah, and we made vows that we would always be loyal to one another.

A couple’s relationship can be divided into three stages. The first stage — the early days of the relationship — is a courting process. Both feel very much in love. Each person is showing the best side of themselves, without much meaningful challenges to the relationship. Each one appreciates the other’s qualities and is attracted to their talents, personality and capabilities.

The second stage comes after a real commitment has been made, like marriage.

As time progresses, the same feeling of being madly in love may not maintain the same high level. But the relationship matures in a different way. Each helps the other, beginning to better appreciate what the other

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

person does for them. The kindness, support and caring that a supportive spouse offers.

In the third stage, the couple has ceased looking only at what the other offers, or at the great talents of their mate. They are now one. When you see an elderly couple together after five decades of marriage, it may not appear as exciting as a college romance with the same outward passion between them.

But they are deeply bound. Each knows, instinctively, what their spouse needs and thinks.

So, too there have been three stages in the Jewish relationship with the Divine. At its outset, G-d performed miracles for us in Egypt, at sea, and in the desert; He swept us off of our feet. We were madly in love with one another. When we had the opportunity to commit to G-d, we proclaimed: ‘Na’aseh V’nishma — We will do! And later we will look to understand why.’ We had an undying devotion to an awesome G-d.

But this fervor, like any infatuation, proved to be temporary. After our marriage at Mt. Sinai, we disobeyed and rebelled, nearly leading to divorce. It took a mutual trusted friend, Moshe, to destroy the original marriage contract - the two tablets - and rewrite new vows and a path to reconciliation.

Our relationship has grown since then,

with many hurdles and setbacks along the way, caused by both sides. We have been doing endless things our Mate needs, performing His Will through Mitzvot and Torah observances, often under incredible duress and challenge. In turn, He has saved and helped us succeed in this world beyond measure.

The relationship between G-d and the Jewish people has now moved into the third stage — becoming One. Many of us today are looking for an authentic, meaningful spiritual connection. Some may call that energy ‘The Universe’, but Judaism defines this intelligent, loving energy we yearn to connect with as being of Divine origin.

On Shavuot we were given G-d’s diary, the Torah’s instructions. When infused with its mystical teachings, it is a clear guide toward a path of deeply felt connection.

May we all feel this oneness in our relationship with the Divine this Shavuot, until it we be felt clearly throughout the universe with the final redemption, may it be speedily in our days.

RABBI DANIEL BORTZ IS THE DIRECTOR OF JTEEN SAN DIEGO, JTEENSD.COM. TO WATCH HIS UNIQUE VIDEOS, VISIT RABBIBORTZ.COM.

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HUMOR l BY STEPHANIE LEWIS

mazel

& mishagoss Imagine Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond as a Couple!

I

love my job as a creative writer! But first I’ll give them some pre-marriage counseling to make sure they’re compatible. Any good matchmaker would do the same.

Therapist: Hello you two famous celebrities!

Neil: Hello my friend, hello.

Barbra: What’s up, Doc? Therapist: Oh please, I don’t have a PhD -- use my first name … Caroline.

Neil: Sweet!

Barbra: Hmph. Obviously you’re not a big fan of my films? What’s Up Doc? Ryan O’Neil. Four plaid suitcases get mixed up?

Therapist: Way before my time. Sorry!

Did I just rain on your parade? Ignore me.

Neil: No one heard at all, not even the chair. If you know what I mean?

Therapist: Suffice it to say I’m a big fan of your voice, Barbra.

Neil: It’s a beautiful noise. And it’s a sound that I love.

Therapist: Well that’s a great start! So how can I help you both today?

Neil: She hardly talks to me anymore when I come through the door at the end of the day.

Therapist: Well perhaps it’s painful that you don’t bring her flowers anymore.

Barbra: Yes! Roses aren’t even that costly.

Neil: Money talks, but it don’t sing and dance and it don’t walk.

Therapist: Let’s try a different tact. How did you two first meet?

Neil: Where it began? I can’t begin to 8

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

knowing. But then I know it’s growing strong.

Barbra: Isn’t he annoying? Actually we met in high school choir. True story. Google it!

Neil: Such a Funny Girl back then. But I told her, “Girl, you’ll be a woman soon.”

Therapist: So now she’s a Funny Lady?

Sorry, couldn’t resist!

Barbra: Honestly, how’s my age relevant?

The underlying issue is Neil isn’t ready to commit and drop those other females from his lyrics, ya know?

Therapist: Other females?

Barbra: Well for starters there’s that hussy from the Bluegrass state.

Neil: Ahhh, Kentucky Woman. God knows I love her.

Barbra: See that? And Cherry, Cherry.

Oh! We can’t forget Cracklin’ Rosie.

Therapist: Cracklin’? — Sounds like a cereal.

Neil: No, but she is a store bought woman.

Barbra: And then there was that hussy, Shilo.

Therapist: Wow. I always thought Shiloh was his dog. Neil? Your input?

Neil: Shilo was when I was young. I used to call her name. But honestly, I can’t recall.

Therapist: What’s too painful to remember, we simply choose to forget.

Barbra: Thank you. And something else bothers me. He starred in The Jazz Singer and could’ve easily suggested me as his leading lady instead of Lucy Arnaz.

Neil: I Love Lucy.

Barbra: Well that’s super depressing.

Neil: Me and you are subject to the blues now and then….

Therapist: Here’s the question. Can you both be your true selves with each other?

Neil: I’ll be what I am. Solitary man.

Barbra: He’s always proclaiming his identity, shouting around the house, “I am, I said!”

Therapist:: Barbra, I sense anger. I’d like you to make some physical contact with Neil right now. A small gesture of affection.

Neil: Yeah! Hands touchin’ hands.

Reachin’ out, touching me….touching you.

Therapist: You can do this, Babs.

Barbra: (hesitatingly extends forearm) Hold my hand and we’re half-way there. Hold my hand and I’ll take you there. Somehow, someday, somewhere.

Therapist: Very good progress this week, folks. But I’d like to see you again. Neil/ Barbra: Do we really even need you any more?

Therapist: People. People who need people….are the luckiest people in the world.

STEPHANIE D. LEWIS WRITES FOR HE HUFFINGTON POST COMEDY SECTION WITH A HUMOR BLOG AT ONCEUPONYOURPRIME.COM.

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L’CHAIM l BY ELIANA RUDEE | JNS.ORG

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

L’CHAIM

A THOUSAND

WORDS

ALAN DERSHOWITZ ON ISRAEL AT 70: 'A LIGHT UNTO THE WORLD'

A

head of Israel’s 70th birthday in May, longtime Harvard University Law Professor, attorney and author Alan Dershowitz announced that he is donating an ambucycle to Israel’s volunteer medic organization, United Hatzalah, in honor of his 80th birthday. Eliana Rudee interviewed Mr. Dershowitz about this gift and to hear his thoughts on Israel at 70 — and what the next seven decades might look like.

Eliana Rudee: What prompted you and your friends to donate an ambucycle to United Hatzalah for Israel’s 70th?

Alan Dershowitz: There is a group of guys I’ve known since kindergarten. We’ve known each other for 75 years, more or less. And we try to spend several weekends a year together and try to get together on New Year’s Eve. We all went to yeshivah in Borough Park in Brooklyn together. We all went different ways, but we are still very close. We are turning 80 this year, and we thought it would be nice commemoration of our birthdays to do something that saves lives, and I can’t imagine a charity more worthy than Hatzalah. It has led the way in quick availability on the scenes of acts of terrorism.

And so we all agreed to make contributions and to dedicate this ambucycle on Yom Ha’atzmaut [Israel Independence Day].

ER: What else are you doing to celebrate Israel’s big year?

AD: I’ve been to Israel for every one of its major birthdays from the 30th on. I’m hoping to be there to celebrate Israel’s 70th, and my

real goal in life is to be there to celebrate its 80th.

ER: What do you think of when you reflect on Israel at 70?

AD: No country in the history of the world ever contributed more to the welfare of humankind in such a short period of time than Israel. Hatzalah is a perfect representative of that. In Hatzalah, you have Jews and Arabs, Christians and Muslims, atheists, religious and secular, people living in the territories all working together to save lives. It represents the best of Israel. People call Israel the startup nation, and I call it the life-saving nation.

Israel has saved lives through its medical technological breakthroughs, through its agricultural breakthroughs and through its pharmaceutical breakthroughs. Israel saves more lives in teaching the world how to prevent terrorism, in teaching the world how to absorb immigrants . . . Israel has really been a light unto the world for 70 years, and I think it’s important to commemorate and look forward.

ER: How do you define the U.S.-Israel relationship at this point in time?

AD: It couldn’t be stronger. It’s very, very positive, but there are trends that are quite dangerous — trends among young Democrats [turning] away from Israel pose risks to the bipartisan consensus in support of Israel. And that’s why I remain within the Democratic Party — to try to strengthen the Democratic Party’s approach to Israel. But it’s a real challenge.

"No country in the history of the world ever contributed more to the welfare of humankind in such a short period of time than israel,” affirms the longtime professor, lawyer and author.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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L'CHAIM

PHOTO COURTESY UNITED HATZALAH

Alan Dershowitz speaking at a ceremony highlighting his donation of a ambucycle to Israel’s volunteer medic organization, United Hatzalah.

ER: What are Israel’s current challenges at 70 years?

AD: I think the biggest challenge is Iran, both a nuclear Iran and [Iranian-supported] Hezbollah to Israel’s north. Another challenge facing Israel — one that is really Israel’s domestic problem—is how to resolve disputes between the haredi community and the modern Orthodox community, and the secular community. That is a very, very serious issue. And number three: how to make peace with the Palestinians, to make some kind of compromised peace with the Palestinians. Those are the issues facing Israel today.

ER: As a legal expert, can you comment on the current status of the Taylor Force Act, and what impact you hope it will make regarding the United States and the Palestinians?

AD: The Taylor Force Act is mostly symbolic.

It sends a powerful message that the United 12

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

States will not tolerate Palestinian terrorism, whether from Hamas or from the West Bank, and that the Palestinian Authority has to do a lot more to constrain it and condemn it, and not to promote it.

I think a very powerful message needs to be sent to the Palestinians that the world and the United States will not tolerate the Palestinians talking out of both sides of their mouths: on the one hand, nominally condemning terrorism; and on the other hand, naming streets and parks glorifying terrorism and glorifying terrorists. So the Palestinian leadership has to make a decision about which side of the terrorism issue it’s on. It can’t be on both sides.

ER: What is your take on Netanyahu’s legal woes?

AD: It’s very important for [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu to be able to continue with the work he’s doing in terms

of diplomatic successes on behalf of Israel with China, Russia, with South Africa and Africa, and I strongly oppose what I call the criminalization of political differences. If people don’t like what Netanyahu is doing, then they will vote against him. But the idea of turning what he’s done into crimes is very antithetical to democracy, and I’m strongly opposed [to it].

ER: What are your hopes for Israel’s next seven decades?

AD: For Israel to get even stronger. I can imagine what the peace dividend would be if Israel were allowed to turn its swords into plowshares, its nuclear weapons into nuclear medicine. The peace dividend would be incredible. And that’s why I am a strong supporter of Israel and a strong supporter of the peace process.

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FEATURE STORY l BY DEBORAH VIETOR

Hamlet

A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON THE OLD GLOBE 14

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

FEATURE STORY

I

nterested in meeting a highly acclaimed, national award-winning Shakespearean director with a deep commitment to community and public service? Meet Barry Edelstein, the Erna Finci Viterbi Artistic Director of the Old Globe. Edelstein is a stage director, producer, author and educator. Recognized as one of the leading American authorities on the works of Shakespeare-he has directed nearly half of the Bard’s plays.

Edelstein said the Old Globe’s distinguished history and breadth of artistic mission were among the key factors attracting him to the position.

“It’s one of the country’s great theaters,” Edelstein said. “There’s just no doubt about that. You make a list of the top 10 regional theaters in the United States, and the Globe is on it.”

He will direct the Globe-commissioned world premiere of The Wanderers, (first seen locally at the Old Globe’s Powers New Plays Festival,) this month. The play runs April 6-May 6, (Opening night: Thursday, April 13.)

Written by Anna Ziegler, celebrated playwright and writer of The Last Match, (The Old Globe Theatre, Roundabout Theatre Company; Craig Noel Award nominee for Outstanding New Play.)

The audience is drawn into a humorous, insightful and mysterious new drama, exploring the hidden connections between seemingly disparate people.

The production offers an intriguing puzzle and a deeply sympathetic look at modern love.

The Wanderers tells the story of Esther and Yoni, a shy, young Orthodox couple who meet through an arranged marriage.

Abe and Julia, high profile celebrities, are involved in a dangerous, flirtatious correspondence, despite being married to other people. The Wanderers comes alive through Ziegler’s unique writing style and under the superb direction of Edelstein.

Appointed Artistic Director of the Old Globe Theatre in 2012, Edelstein’s Globe directing credits include The Winter’s Tale,

Barry Edelstein

starring Billy Campbell, his directorial debut with the Globe, the first Shakespearean play to be staged in the Globe’s indoor theatre in over a decade.

He expertly directed the world premiere of Rain, written by Somerset Maugham at the Old Globe in March 2016. Also, he directed Picasso at the Lapin Agile at the Globe, in addition to directing Hamlet.

“Southern California really needs some precipitation, and I’m beyond excited to bring it here in the form of Rain, a remarkable new work of music-theatre,” said Edelstein at the time of his musical theatrical debut, where he made the classic story of scandal in 1924 come to life.

Other Globe directing credits include: Othello, starring Richard Thomas, Blair Underwood and Kristen Connolly and The Twenty-seventh Man, written by Nathan

Englander and starring Hal Linden.

As the Director of the New York Shakespeare Festival/Public Theater’s Shakespeare Lab conservatory from 20072012, Edelstein directed Julius Caesar, The Merchant of Venice, also the Public’s Broadway production of The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino.

His additional Shakespearean directorial credits include: As You Like It starring Gwyneth Paltrow; Richard III starring John Turturro; the Lucille Lortel Awardwining revival of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons; the world premiere of Steve Martin’s The Underpants; (which he commissioned); and Moliere’s The Misanthrope starring Uma Thurman in her stage debut.

Yet with all his past achievements, today he is looking toward the Globe’s latest season.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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PHOTOS COURTESY THE OLD GLOBE THEATRE

FEATURE STORY

Rain

“Our 2017-2018 season is as varied and exciting as any I’ve had the privilege to present,” said Edelstein.

“The lineup includes everything that makes the Old Globe one of the country’s preeminent theatres: Broadway-caliber musical theatre, sumptuously produced classics, and powerful and innovative world premieres, all created by artists who are working at the very toprank of the contemporary and American and international theatre.”

“It’s also a diverse season, in every sense.

There are comedies and dramas, familiar and also brand-new forms. And it represents a broad range of cultural perspectives, modeling on our stages the pluralistic America in which we live. This season of work embodies the values of transformation, inclusion, and excellence that are central to 16

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

the Globe’s mission. Each show provides a sparkling, fun, engaging and vibrant evening of great theatre, offering something for every San Diegan. I can’t wait to bring this bounty and variety to our audience.”

Edelstein has been instrumental in bringing the Globe’s works to other communities through Globe for All, the theater’s cornerstone touring program.

Performed free of charge in nontraditional venues, including homeless shelters, community centers, including the Fourth District Seniors Resource Center, the Naval Base in San Diego, Veterans Village of San Diego, Father Joe’s Villages, Las Colinas Women’s Detention and Reentry Facility, and Malcolm X Library. These productions give audiences an intimate, compelling experience, fostering a shared

sense of community between performers and spectators. He directed All’s Well That Ends Well as the inaugural production of the Globe For All community tour, with other works including Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night following.

“We strive to make theater matter with a deep commitment to theater and arts engagement, and Globe For All has become a top national program … over the past 5 years,” Edelstein said.

Edelstein created a program called Thinking Shakespeare Live! This is a 90 minute exploration of Shakespeare’s language, led

by Edelstein, performed several times a year since 2014 and assisted by 3 professional classical actors, with methods he imparted to actors in the rehearsal room, performed live on stage.

FEATURE STORY

His book Thinking Shakespeare: A How-To Guide for Student Actors, Directors, and Anyone Else Who Wants to Feel More Comfortable with the Bard, is the standard text on American Shakespearean acting, New York Magazine called it “A must read for all actors.” He is also the author of Bardisms: Shakespeare for All Occasions.

The Globe, along with Edelstein, will long be known as a creator of world-class theatre productions and equally as a hub for participatory art-making, fostering cross-cultural and intergenerational shared experience transversing socioeconomic and geographic boundaries.

He has a way of magically transforming involved and heavy “Old English” material into modern-day language with relatable anecdotes. His delivery and compelling way of introducing Shakespeare to new audiences in addition to his unassuming character, combines humility with creativity, making him a joy to be around.

Recently, Edelstein shared some of his experience, wisdom and wit with L’CHAIM magazine.

L’CHAIM Magazine: How did you choose theater and what do you like most about it?

Barry Edelstein: Theater chose me. I attended public school in New Jersey at Fairlawn which had a good theater program.

The teachers and the people in the theater were of such quality. Also, we were so close to New York City. I got hooked! I had fun, and a creative outlook made going to school a joy. When I was younger than 10, I attended shows on Broadway. It created more of an awareness of theater.

You don’t go to theatre, you are taken.

One important aspect of theater is that people who don’t fit in anywhere else find empathy and support. Theater welcomes everybody! Theater brings us the subjective experience of others, increasing the power of community and generating empathy.

For children, theater is a magical playground. Actors are the number one subculture of grownups who are wonderful with kids. They love to pretend. My daughter

does school plays and is aching to write. Both of my children are unusually good at sitting through shows.

L’CHAIM: Did you have a mentor growing up?

BE: I was blessed by great teachers in high school drama as productions were introduced in a beautiful, moving way. They held the key to nourish and guide me through the process.

I was lucky enough to study at Oxford which is close to Stratford, where I could truly experience Shakespeare firsthand.

I met Joseph Papp in his later years through, (the American actor and friend of Edelstein’s), Kevin Kline. I felt inspired and empowered.

(Papp, (originally Joseph Papirofsky), was an American theatrical producer and director, founding The Public Theatre and Shakespeare in the Park in 1954. (He made the works of Shakespeare accessible to the public, much as Edelstein has done for the San Diego community through the Old Globe.)

L’CHAIM: What advice would you give to those entering the field of theater?

BE: Be patient and persistent, be specific.

I ask students: “Why do you want to be an actor? Do you want to be famous?” These are two very different things today in our culture.

The more single minded a person is, the higher chance for success. The most successful people are those who can say things such as: “I want to perform Bach on the cello.” You have to find your North Star.

At 21 years old, I knew I wanted to direct Shakespeare in American Theatre and this became my North Star. I always knew I wanted to direct Shakespeare and have landed in a great place.

to work with extraordinary people such as Maria Aitken (director of The Importance of Being Earnest).

San Diegans tend not to know what a precious asset we have in theatre here. In addition to the Old Globe, we have the San Diego Repertory Theatre and La Jolla Playhouse in addition to may other theatres throughout San Diego County.

Edelstein spoke highly of the Old Globe staff and board, including the creative individuals comprised of producers, director and actors.

He also shared that through the Old Globe, there is a direction towards inclusion, diversity and equity. These areas are applied to theatre with plays for every population.

The upcoming 2018 line-up of productions at the Old Globe Theater includes: American Mariachi by Jose Cruz Gonzalez, directed by James Vasquez, in association with Denver Center for the Performing Arts Theatre Company; a Globe commissioned world premiere of The Wanderers, written by Anna Ziegler and directed by Barry Edelstein.

A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Ursula Rani Sarma, directed by Carey Perloff; and Native Gardens, by Karen Zacarias, directed by Edward Torres.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THE WEBSITE AT THEOLDGLOBE.ORG CALL FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: (619) 23-GLOBE [234-5623] THE OLD GLOBE IS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF BALBOA PARK.

L’CHAIM: What is exciting for you about being at the Old Globe?

BE: It is exciting to be a part of an 83 year old theatre. It is one of the grandest and biggest theaters in the nation, the fifth largest in the United States outside of New York. I am able

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

17

FOOD

KOSHEROLOGY BOURBON-BESAMIM OAT BAKED APPLES STORY & PHOTOS BY ALEX THE KOSHEROLOGIST KOSHEROLOGY.COM

Awesome sweet oatstuffed apples are highlighted by the unmistakable flavor of Southern bourbon and "Jewish" besamim liqueur.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

FOOD

A

wesome sweet oat-stuffed apples are highlighted by the unmistakable flavor of Southern bourbon and "Jewish" besamim liqueur (my heritage, y’all.) Nothing like a “Boozy” inside-out apple crisp. At least, that’s what I think of them. To find out more about besamim liqueur visit sukkahhill.com Enjoy, Y’all.

P.S. serve with parve/non-dairy ice cream for utter awesomeness.

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

Parve/Non-Dairy Serves 9-12

4. Add the softened margarine and 1 teaspoon of besamim liqueur and mix thoroughly with a fork or your hands until the mixture becomes slightly clumpy.

Ingredients 3 lb. Fuji apples (approx. 9-12) 2/3 cup old-fashioned oats 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1/4 cup unsalted margarine, softened 1 tsp. besamim liqueur+ 1 cup besamim liqueur 1/3 cup bourbon 1 cup spiced apple cider

2. Using an apple-corer or a paring knife, carefully core the apples about 2/3 of the way down. Cut the holes into circles approximately 1-2 inches wide.

3. In a bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Stuff each apple with the mixture. Place the apples in a large baking dish. Pour the besamim liqueur, bourbon, and apple cider in the bottom of the pan.

6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, basting every 1o minutes. Remove from the oven when the apples have darkened significantly and have developed wrinkly skin.

BORN AND BRED IN THE AMERICAN SOUTH, ALEX ‘THE KOSHEROLOGIST’ IDOV, WAS RAISED ON COLLARD GREENS STEWED WITH SMOKED TURKEY LEG (IN PLACE OF HAM HOCKS), BLACKEYED-PEAS, AND BRUNSWICK STEW. HE BOASTS BEING A 4TH GENERATION JEWISH SOUTHERNER, WITH ONE OF HIS GREAT-GRANDMOTHER’S BORN IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA IN 1888. HIS OTHER GREAT-GRANDPARENTS HAILED FROM RUSSIA, POLAND, AND FRANCEINSPIRING MUCH OF HIS COOKING WITH THE CUISINES OF HIS HERITAGE. ALEX’S CULINARY REPERTOIRE GOES BEYOND TRADITIONAL JEWISH AND SOUTHERN FARE, AS HE REVISITS AND REINVENTS THE CUISINES OF HIS ANCESTORS. ALEX HOLDS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN CULINARY SUSTAINABILITY AND HOSPITALITY FROM THE KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY MICHAEL A. LEVEN SCHOOL OF CULINARY SUSTAINABILITY AND HOSPITALITY AND WORKS AS A FREELANCE FOOD WRITER. FIND MORE RECIPES AT KOSHEROLOGY.COM.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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ISRAEL AT 70 | BY DEBORAH FINEBLUM | jns.org

Seventy Years of Sacrifice

A G L OB AL S AL U T E T O ISR AE L' S F AL L E N S OL DIE R S

I

f you’ve ever been in Israel for Yom Hazikaron — the Memorial Day for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the Jewish homeland — chances are you will never forget it. Even if you somehow miss the official ceremonies honoring the fallen, there’s no way to sleep through the siren sounding across the Jewish state at 8 p.m. and then again at 11 the next morning. At that moment, Israelis everywhere freeze in mid-air — mid-bank deposit, midmath lesson, mid-email or mid-carpool — while traffic screeches to a halt, and folks climb out of their cars and stand completely silent.

Both instances represent a long minute of stillness in a country not known for its reticence, when the entire nation of Israel stops to remember the 23,632 soldiers and security forces who have given their lives to defend the State of Israel. Unless you are Israeli or related to someone who gave their life for their country, you might not see the bereaved parents, brothers, sisters, widows and orphans

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

who gather every year at Mount Herzl on this day to mourn and reflect at the gravesites of loved ones.

The Mizlavi family is among the throngs who congregate there every year to pay their respects to brother-uncle-cousin Tzadok Mizlavi, a 28-year-old graphics artist at The Jerusalem Post who was killed in the Yom Kippur War in 1973.

“Most Israelis have lost someone,” says his younger sister, Tzadika Mizlavi. So, when asked to participate in a new project to honor the 23,632 for Israel’s 70th anniversary this spring, Mizlavi, a teacher at the Shulamith School for Girls in Brooklyn, N.Y., was quick to agree.

“Not only is it special for me, but we really want our girls to understand the sacrifices made so we could have Israel,” says Mizlavi, who was 24 when her brother was killed. “I’ll never forget my father saying at the shiva, ‘May he be the last to die.’”

PHOTO COURTESY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Israeli soldiers at a ceremony on Mt. Herzl in Jerusalem.

ISRAEL AT 70

KEEP THEIR MEMORIES ALIVE This year, in addition to established traditions, a new way exists for Jews around the globe to honor these fallen heroes. By this Yom Hazikaron on April 17-18, each one of the 23,632 should have at least one kind or sacred act done in his or her memory.

Launched in February, “Yizkereim: Honor Israel’s Fallen” (Yizkereim is Hebrew for “remember them”) has already collected more than 21,000 acts of chesed (“kindness”), be it public service, prayer, Torah learning or tzedakah (“charity”) by a Jew somewhere in the world in the memory of the fallen.

A project of the international Jewish outreach organization Olami, in partnership with the Afikim Foundation and Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, Yizkereim is designed to “keep each soldier’s memory alive with positive actions done in their memory,” says Karen Hochberg, who runs community programming for Afikim. “I’m so impressed with the creative and caring actions people have already performed.”

When they’re posted on the website (honorisraelsfallen.com), bereaved families can read about these acts done in their loved one’s name. And hundreds of them, Hochberg reports, have asked to be connected with the Diaspora Jews who are honoring their fallen soldier.

Though many of these good deeds are planned, Steven Grutman’s tribute to Shlomo Ashkenazi was a spontaneous one. Strolling through the streets one afternoon in Washington, D.C., the University of Maryland junior spied a man who appeared homeless and hungry.

“I told him I was going to get some dinner and did he want to come with me.” The man quickly accepted, adding that he’d never eaten Mexican food before but was willing to try.

Over dinner, the man said he’d been out of work for a few years.

“And he loved the Mexican food,” adds Grutman. “Feeding him felt like the right thing to do in this soldier’s memory.”

To date, some 190 schools, congregations and groups had signed on to the project, and more than 21,000 positive actions have been performed or pledged in soldiers’ memories. Hochberg’s goal: “To use each act of goodness to keep their memories alive.”

As part of the effort, the schools receive a film, banners, a poster and yahrtzeit candles. In addition, each act of chesed leaves a “lit” virtual candle “burning” on the website. A culminating event for “Yizkereim: Honor Israel’s Fallen” is scheduled for Yom Hazikaron, on April 17 at the Queens Museum in Queens, N.Y., the same building where the United Nations voted to approve Israeli independence back in 1947.

Rabbi Joel Landau of San Francisco’s Adath Israel Congregation had an extra motivation for pledging his congregants to honor 100 fallen soldiers: He served in the Israel Defense Forces in the 1980s and saw friends die for the cause. “But besides my personal connection, I believe Israel is the land of all Jews, and these are our boys who died for our homeland. They paid the price for all of us, so we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.”

It’s especially powerful, adds the rabbi, when families take on the project together, “when it’s not their teachers or their rabbi, but their parents showing how important Israel and these heroes are by doing something meaningful as a family in their memory.”

Launched in February, “Yizkereim: Honor Israel’s Fallen” has already collected more than 21,000 acts of Chesed (“kindness”), be it public service, prayer, torah learning or tzedakah (“charity”) by a Jew somewhere in the world in the memory of the fallen.

WE’RE ONE PEOPLE At 37, Olami CEO David Markowitz is too young to recall most of the wars that resulted in these casualties, but old enough to appreciate the impact their sacrifice has on contemporary Jewry. And, like other Olami partnership programs — connecting 25,000 students and young adults to Jewish engagement, learning and practice each week — the Yizkereim campaign is also active on college campuses.

“When we get to know about our fallen soldier’s life and then we grow ourselves in some way Jewishly to honor him, it pulls Diaspora Jews and Israelis together,” says Markowitz. “It reminds us that we’re one people.”

To maximize participation, the website has been translated into Russian, Spanish and French, along with Hebrew and English.

This project is a rare opportunity for Diaspora Jews to honor Israelis who’ve made the greatest sacrifice, stresses Michal Nordmann, a Tel Aviv mother of three who moved to Israel five years ago and now directs communications for Olami. “When we lived in America, there was no siren on this day, no ceremony where we could sing “Hatikvah” with a thousand other Jews,” she says. “These soldiers gave up their lives not so we’d have a nice place to vacation, but so we would have our ancient homeland back — a place that all Jews around the world can call home.”

Educator Mizlavi of New York says that “to have a Jewish teen in America doing something in the name of our brother so many years later, it means so much. None of us ever dreamed something like this would happen.”

TO SIGN UP YOUR FAMILY, SCHOOL, CLUB OR CONGREGATION FOR YIZKEREIM, VISIT: HONORISRAELSFALLEN.COM. WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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GUEST COMMENTARY | BY RITA HELLER

T

A Miracle!

he Jewish people reestablished their Jewish state which has survived 70 years, despite all of the wars Israel has had to fight. Facing political isolation, Israel has succeeded in the fields of technology, agriculture, medical research and groundbreaking water technology. We can only rejoice to see this young vibrant democracy standing strong against its enemies who busy themselves planning its destruction.

Who do we have to thank — who helped Israel survive these 70 years? Some give credit to the Heavens, while others credit the tough sabras who work so hard. I do not deny either of those but my first pragmatic response is AIPAC and the IsraelU.S. relationship. We take it for granted today, but Israel did not always have U.S. military support. France was Israel’s main weapons supplier until 1962. It was only in 1962 that the U.S. government agreed to sell anti-aircraft missiles to Israel, later followed by tanks in 1965 and attack aircraft in 1968. If not for AIPAC, Israel might not have everything it needs to defend itself.

It is precisely because AIPAC spends time with Congress — explaining the complicated landscape of the Middle East and bringing some of them to visit Israel - that American lawmakers come to understand that Israel loves freedom and wants peace.

Moreover, they feel the similarities between our societies.

Over time, Israel has become one of America’s strongest allies, sharing intelligence and providing support.

Looking forward to the AIPAC Policy Conference 2018, I left home at 4:30 a.m., unsuspecting the long trip that awaited me. Due to unusual 50+ mph winds in Washington D.C., many flights were cancelled. I was rerouted and had to stay

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

overnight in Minneapolis. I finally arrived 36 hours later!

The conference officially opened on Sunday morning and I was so ready! More than 18,000 attended, with 1,800 alone from California. In addition, there are high school and college students, Jews and non-Jews, labor representatives, ministers and rabbis. So great to have them there — all united in our support for the only Jewish state.

Of course, there are Democrats and Republicans, liberals and conservatives ... that is the whole point. Without bipartisanship, AIPAC would be a total flop. We are a country with freedom of expression and AIPAC members value that.

Just as the country is diverse, so too is Congress. The last day is lobbying day. We take buses up the hill to our nation’s capital to meet with Senators and Members of Congress. It is a very proud moment for me, daughter of two immigrants who were very proud of their new country. Then we can go home to our various states knowing that we have done good work.

Yes, I will continue to support AIPAC because no other organization plays such an important role, as recognized

by Israel’s prime minister every year. Thank you AIPAC! Netanyahu always says and Shimon Peres said it too, because Congress is making very important, impactful decisions every day and the only way they get to hear is via AIPAC. RITA HELLER, PRESIDENT AND CO-FOUNDER OF TRAINING AND EDUCATION ABOUT THE MIDDLE EAST (TEAM) IS A CHILD OF HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS. BORN AND RAISED IN LOS ANGELES, SHE WAS ACTIVE AT U.C.L.A. IN THE STUDENT ZIONIST ALLIANCE AND ATTENDED A LEADERSHIP TRAINING COURSE IN ISRAEL.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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OUR TRIBE

Opera Ball 2018: Pretty in Pink

TRIBE

OUR

Community:

THE COMMUNITY PLACE

Lee and Frank Goldberg David Bennett, Kevin and Sherry Ahern

Want to know what's happening in your community?

Have something you want to share?

We at L'CHAIM want to help you strengthen your ties to your community by publishing your lifecycle events in our magazine AT NO CHARGE. As a community, we share in each other's joys and sorrows and are always here to support one another.

This service is brought to you by Chai Five Projects. Please submit your lifecycle events to info@lchaimmagazine.com Visit lchaimmagazine.com/chai5projects for more info.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

PHOTO BY AARON GOULDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Zandra Rhodes, Steve McDonald, Courtney Coyle

FEATURE STORY l BY EVA TREIGER

san diego

PHOTO BY MELINDA FINN

jewish men's choir

W

hat do you get when you combine 24 musically gifted men and one dynamic and talented woman? The San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir!

I was able to interview Ruth Weber, via telephone, and she shared with me many of the delights she has experienced and those she anticipates with the group.

Weber has been the Artistic Director/ Conductor and taskmaster behind the choir for the past 6 plus years. This is just one of many hats Weber dons. By day she is a member of the music faculty at Palomar and Miramar Colleges in San Diego and the director of the Disciple Singers Choir.

Additionally, this musical master has played for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Institute, the San Fernando Valley Men’s Chorus and the Opera Aguascalientes.

It was Weber’s foresight and determination that took these men to the next level. The award-winning composer has received recognition in the Canadian Song Festival, the International Songwriting Competition, the Global Music Awards, the New York Pro/ Am Songwriting Competition and the Jewish American Songwriting Competition. Suffice it so say ... she knows talent when she hears it.

The San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir has been around for twenty years, but it was not until Weber’s arrival that they began the transformation from casual hobbyists to

accomplished vocalists. When she took the reins, the men were performing all liturgical pieces, singing entirely in Hebrew. This served the original founders well, many of whom are from South Africa; however, as new men came on board, they found this rigidity limited their venue options.

Today the repertoire contains about half secular music and half religious arrangements.

The multilingual men sing in English, Yiddish, Ladino, and Hebrew. They have had the honor and pleasure of opening for Klezmer greats, Elizabeth Schwartz and Yael Strom. Typically Weber selects the pieces to be performed and then the Board confirms her choices. They are always seeking a well rounded program and filling in the cracks with new music. Currently, Judeo-Persian music is coming to the fore, and Weber and her “24 brothers” are all over it.

In addition to writing the arrangements for the choir, Weber has created “choralography,” dance moves that she feels attract a younger generation of music lovers. To this end, the men reflect a broad range in demographics, ages 20-80. The choir members are all Jewish, and about three quarters of them are affiliated with local shuls. San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir performs monthly and often has additional private and public events. Generally they can be found singing in Southern California, but more recently, under Weber’s grooming and networking, they are touring!

The SDJMC flew to Omaha together where they spent four days, which included singing with the Omaha Symphony. Their next traveling gig takes them to Phoenix for a weekend where they will perform with a combo.

In January 2019, David Amos of Tifereth Israel Congregation Orchestra (TICO) will direct the choir. And that’s just the start. In celebration of the 70th anniversary of the state of Israel this talented choir was invited by the Wiener Judische Chor (Vienna Jewish Choir) and the Jerusalem Ramatayim Choir who are heading up the Massed GlobalChoir “One Voice.”

This fabulous worldwide competition will showcase 20 choirs representing South Africa, United States, Canada, Britain, Austria, Ukraine, Russia and Israel. Contestants created a video in which seventeen members of the SDJMC participated. The choir performed “Oseh Shalom” composed by Ramon Grinberg. The video has been released https:// youtu.be/0FB6JK8uE9s.

Since her arrival, I wondered what Weber saw as her biggest challenge. Ruth shared that she saw so much potential and wanted to get the choir to perform at a higher level. She saw their promise but had to convince them of their capability. They didn’t see themselves as serious contenders, but a fun-loving group.

After she exposed the depth of their skills, they are consistently singing at a higher calibre and with greater scope.

I was also eager to know what Weber’s greatest joy entailed. She explained that she has the men memorize everything, so now she and the audience can see their facial expressions, as well as their choreography. The pride and delight on their faces is evident, and they no longer look down, reading the sheet music.

This was transformational, according to the dedicated Artistic Director.

As our conversation came to a close, Weber told me that, “We are always looking for new voices and the audition process is not rigorous.” Judging from the myriad smiles and gleeful punims in the photo, the San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir has struck a harmonious chord.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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FEATURE STORY l BY DEBORAH VIETOR

alzheimer's san diego

help find a cure

A

lzheimer’s means many things to different people. For Alzheimer’s San Diego, it means there is hope for a cure. The organization helped more than 32,000 San Diegans in 2017. This included 9,475 one-on-one sessions with dementia experts, 211 education classes and 5,273 hours of free respite.

According to San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulkner: “San Diego will find a cure for Alzheimer’s.” Mayor Faulkner wants to establish San Diego as the nation’s top medical research hub for Alzheimer’s disease.

To that end, the second annual Visionary Circle Luncheon and Auction for Alzheimer’s San Diego will be held May 4, 2018 at the Estancia Hotel and Spa in La Jolla from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Featured speaker for the luncheon is award-winning journalist and prime time Anchor for Fox 5 news, Kathleen Bade. She will share her story of Alzheimer’s and will how it has touched her family.

Guests will enjoy an afternoon of great company, delicious food, and luxury auction items. Auction items include luxury getaways, experiences and local products. Alzheimer’s San Diego has created a unique art program called “Memories In the Making,” where artists volunteer at the center with Alzheimer’s and dementia clients, and create companion art pieces. These pieces are unique and will be on auction at the luncheon.

The Visionary Circle is comprised of members — or Visionaries — donating $100 per month or $1,200 annually to Alzheimer’s San Diego.

Donations support families affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s, funding research for a cure. Visionaries receive VIP invitations to events throughout the year, including the annual Visionary Circle Luncheon and Auction. As always, 100 percent of donations stay in San Diego County.

Bari Berkman, a dedicated board member for over eight years and part of the Visionary Circle was with SAIC in San Diego for 35 years as Vice-President of Real Estate and Assistant General Counsel. She, along with other board members has supported events, activities and classes through Alzheimer’s San Diego for years. Berkman’s father struggled with Alzheimer’s disease, which inspired her involvement with the Alzheimer’s San Diego program.

Berkman is most impressed with the social workers connected to the program and how dedicated everyone is, including the new President and CEO, Eugenia Welch, former Executive Director of Sunrise Senior Living.

“The staff is so unbelievably dedicated and professional, giving their hearts and souls,” Berkman said. They really want to make a difference and have such upbeat energy.”

The luncheon is such an inspirational event! Beyond the speaker, people talk about their personal experiences, which is so moving.”

Although there is not currently a cure for Alzheimer’s, there is hope for understanding and coping with the disease, thanks to the work of great organizations like Alzheimer’s San Diego.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ALZHEIMER’S SAN DIEGO, OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE VISIONARY CIRCLE LUNCHEON, VISIT ALZSD.ORG/AUCTION OR CALL MICHELLE VAN HOFF AT (858) 966-3300. FOR INFORMATION REGARDING THE VISIONARY CIRCLE, VISIT ALZSD.ORG/VISIONARY. 26

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

ALIGNING YOUR INVESTMENTS WITH JEWISH VALUES info@jvifunds.com (858) 523-8055 www.jvifunds.com A SEC Registered Investment Advisor

NEW!

L’CHAIM MAGAZINE JEWISH COMMUNITY CALENDAR! Start uploading your events today! www.lchaimmagazine.com/events

www.lchaimmagazine.com/events

BY AMY NISEN l FEATURE STORY

the power of

friendship circle

N

ot many of us know what it feels like to be truly lonely, to feel like we are all alone or constantly misunderstood. Sadly, many of the children and young adults Friendship Circle serves have experienced that throughout their lives.

I have been involved in Friendship Circle for many years, first in Philadelphia now in San Diego. At our annual banquet this year the participants of the Shooting Stars performing arts group and Friendship Dojo gave demonstrations. It was wonderful, the joy on the faces of the participants was intoxicating.

Friendship Circle gives power to people with disabilities and their families by creating a supportive and accepting environment.

There are a variety of programs for different age groups and interests. In Gymnastics Club, a collaboration with UCSD, participants are led by college student instructors at the campus gymnastics facility to work on confidence, strength, and balance; and the Young Adults Club gets 20 and 30 year olds together for outings and joint events with Chai @ Beth El. That’s just a small sampling of the

programming, which serves a broad and varied population. The program has a clear impact on both participants and their families — it serves as a space where kids can be themselves and be appreciated — and their parents get a chance to watch or take a break.

After a recent event, we received this email from the mother of a volunteer: “I want to THANK YOU, Friendship Circle, Shaolin Kempo Arts, Steve and Yael for such a rewarding opportunity for my son Tyler to work with Yael. Tyler was beaming after getting to partner with her at the Friendship Dojo last night. It is a true gift to Tyler for him to feel needed and appreciated for his tenderness. Yael’s positivity and love of life is something he can aspire to.”

The organization gives participants a chance/encouragement to take what society perceives as weaknesses, and turn them into motivation and strengths.

“I never imagined Sara would be on this stage as a special guest speaker at the Friendship Circle of San Diego. She eloquently spoke about how this wonderful organization has helped her personally and

how it helps others in the community with special needs. Ironically, she has a speech and language disability but showed everyone how we can all overcome if we continue to strive to do our best in everything we do and believe in ourselves and focus on our strengths.”

Posted on Facebook by one of our mom’s.

Her daughter delivered an inspiring speech about overcoming her challenges at our banquet.

THE FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE WALK WILL TAKE PLACE ON APRIL 29, 2018. THE FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE WALK SD WILL TAKE PLACE AT LIBERTY STATION NTC PARK’S, PREBLE FIELD FOLLOWED BY THE SD JEWISH FEDERATION’S ISRAEL FEST ACROSS THE STREET AT INGRAM PLAZA. REGISTRATION AND THE FRIENDSHIP FAIR BEGIN AT 9 A.M. WITH A BOUNCE HOUSE OBSTACLE COURSE, SOCCER, LAWN GAMES, A PHOTO BOOTH, KARATE, FACE PAINTING AND MUCH MORE. THE 5K FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE WALK BEGINS AT 10 A.M. AND ISRAEL FEST FOLLOWS AT 11 A.M. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (858) 487-4879 OR GO TO FRIENDSHIPWALKSD. ORG.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

AN ENGAGING EXPERIENCE IN ISRAEL

JEWISH NATIONAL FUND ACTIVE ADULTS TAKE TRIP

M

ore than fifty strangers from across the United States met in Tel Aviv on a Sunday evening in early September. Most were first time travelers to Israel and had very little or minimal connection with Jewish National Fund. Others had visited Israel before but not in many years. The reasons they gave for coming to Israel were varied, but the urge to make a connection with their Judaism, how they grew up or who they were was a common theme.

They were longing for an experience and took the chance to join Jewish National Fund’s Sunshine Tour for a ten- day journey through Israel, that, in the end many proclaimed as life changing.

Jewish National Fund’s Sunshine Tour is designed for people over age 55, and typically attracts participants in their 60s who lead active adult lives. The trip is paced a little slower than many other missions, allowing more time to experience as much as possible.

Our first visit was to Independence Hall to learn the history of Israel and Tel Aviv culminating in the re-enactment of Israel’s declaration of statehood in 1948. It was an amazing experience as our group stood and sang Hatikvah together. We toured Tel Aviv, Old Jaffa, saw the sites and felt the pride in this tiny country doing remarkable things. We visited Yad Vashem, Israel’s national holocaust memorial.

During a two hour guided tour through the museum, the group was engaged and asking questions, and for the first time, perhaps, began to understand this tragic part of our history and why Israel is so important to Jews all over the world. Whether you are observant or not, we realized that a strong vibrant Israel is central to the well-being of the Jewish people.

We toured the rest of the country during the ten-day odyssey. We experienced the Old City of Jerusalem, met and talked with “lone soldiers” from the U.S. as they told us of their experiences and why they joined the Israeli Defense Forces. We traveled north and learned about Jewish National Fund’s Go North campaign, which aims to economically develop Israel’s Galilee and increase tourism.

We traveled to the desert to a small town called Mitzpe Ramon and took an early morning Jeep ride into the famous crater to watch the sunrise. We went star gazing. All the time learning about Jewish National Fund and the myriad of projects our donors support on behalf of the land and people of Israel.

Our itinerary took us to the Negev where we saw first-hand the effect Jewish National Fund contributions are having in the city of Be’er Sheva, and the extraordinary impact ALEH Negev-Nahalat Eran is having on the special needs population of Israel and its positive economic impact on Ofakim, a small neighboring city. We visited the Sderot Indoor Recreation Center, a signature JNF project, and learned of its role in providing children a safe environment protected from the rockets fired into their city from Gaza.

We experienced the Kotel in Jerusalem as Shabbat began and, afterwards at our Shabbat dinner, we talked about our feelings. Most of the participants only knew of Jewish National Fund as children— primarily through the planting of trees. They expressed a sense of awe at all that Jewish National Fund is doing to make Israel a strong and vibrant part of all of our lives.

As several members of the group said: “You have touched us. This trip and Jewish National Fund has changed our lives.”

Join us for our next Sunshine Tour (for Active Adults 55+) from August 26 – September 4, 2018. Whether it will be your first or 100th visit to Israel, I can promise you an experience you will not forget.

For more information and tour details, visit jnf.org/sunshinedetails or contact JNF’s Planned Giving Office at 800.562.7526 or at plannedgiving@jnf.org WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • APRIL 2018

CELEBRATING ISRAEL @ 70!

Sunday, April 29, 2018 11:00am - 3:00pm Ingram Plaza at Liberty Station featuring

Shanee Zamir

1st Place Winner of the People’s Vote - 2013 Israel Eurovision, Israel Broadcasting Authority (IBA)

Beer Garden • Henna Tattoos • Face Painting • Israeli Music • Israeli Dancing Krav Maga • Shesh Besh Competition • Kids Sport Zone • Kids Inflatables Kosher Food • Artisan Booths • Community Booths • Friendship Walk

Due to increased security, all festival guests will be required to register. Register at jewishinsandiego.org/israelfest.