L'Chaim San Diego October 2014 issue

travel

OCTOBER 2014

NEW

BEGINNINGS for

5775 EXCLUSIVE: FIRST LOOK AT THE

SD JEWISH BOOK FAIR pg. 20

Collectve Judaism in north county pg. 12

DIVORCE-FAMILY LAW Compassionate Yet Aggressive Family Law Experts

“HIRE THEM BEFORE YOUR SPOUSE DOES”

858.720.1496 or 760.729.0941 2755 Jefferson Street, Ste. 200 Carlsbad, CA 92008 • www.frfamilylaw.com MYRA FLEISCHER

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

Wish You Were Here

Make the Remington Club Your New Home in the New Year

Living at The Remington Club is like living at a resort! You deserve it!

We are walking distance, or a quick shuttle ride if you prefer, to restaurants, shopping, banking, a post office and medical facilities. Come and experience The Remington Club, San Diego’s finest retirement living community.

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HAPPY SUKKOT Jewish Collaborative of San Diego

5927 Balfour Court, #203 Carlsbad, CA 92008 www.jcosd.com WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

3

The San Diego Community

is Saluting the Soldiers of the IDF

M usic brings us together

Tuesday, October 28 at 7:00pm Balboa Theater, 868 4th Ave, San Diego, CA

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Fill your pockets with GREEN! While helping the community get their word out.

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Purchase tickets at www.fidf.org/sandiego For more information, call Friends of the IDF at 858-926-3210 or email us at sandiego@fidf.org

Their job is to look after Israel. Ours is to look after them.

WANTED:

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

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October 2014 www.lchaimmagazine.com

Features 16 A Thousand Words Stephanie Wells’ Double Happiness Jewelry has been worn by celebrities and the First Lady

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20 EXCLUSIVE: First Look at the SD Jewish Book Fair The 20th annual event is packed with fun

24 Hillel and “Open Hillel” Can the two campus groups get along on Israel policy?

28 Jerusalem of Gold Biblical Archaeology in the Holy Land experiences a revival

Columns

11

6 Hello 8 What Jew Mean 9 Of the Book 10 My Comic Relief

Yom Kippur Chai Life

11 Sneakers on Fast Days

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12 Synagogue Life Collective Judaism plants its roots in North County with JCoSD

34 Aryeh Green at Federation

Headlines

32 News to Know Now

PUBLISHERS Diane Benaroya & Laurie Miller Editor-in-Chief Alanna Maya CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laurie Miller Contributors Yigal Adato, Daniel Bortz, Jeffrey Cohan, Rachel Grossman, Salomon Maya, Rob Greenspan ADVERTISING & SALES Diane Benaroya, Ally Ginzberg, Sharon Rapoport

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO, LLC (858) 776-0550 San Diego, CA 92127 EDITORIAL editor@lchaimmagazine.com ADVERTISING dianeb@lchaimmagazine.com

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HELLO l by alannA MAYA

to life.

Thanks for the Love!

SOME OF THE LOVE FOR l’chaim magazine

“I love the look of the magazine!”

- Sharon R.

W

hen I got together with the team behind L’CHAIM in early summer to discuss building a new magazine, I knew that this would have to be a labor of love to work. We wanted a clean, modern look, but we also wanted to have warmth. We wanted our stories to cover the fun side of life (Otherwise, why name your magazine L’CHAIM?), but we also knew that news of the day was equally important if we wanted to engage the most readers we could. Long hours spent over coffee ensued. Late phone calls and texts were the norm, and there was a lot of change from the time we first met to plan out the inaugural issue, but we made it!

Whilst planning for the first issue of L’CHAIM, we were also planning a wedding, a baby shower and the end of our summer vacations. It was a hectic time to say the least, but it was all worth it last month when we held the inaugural issue in our hands. We had put so much of our hearts and souls into L’CHAIM that after we sent the issue off to the printer, we were exhausted! But then the letters and phone 6

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

calls came. You told us you loved us, and we felt so great about all we had done to get here, so we wanted to take a moment to say thanks. Thanks for reading us. Thanks for liking our facebook page. Thanks for visiting our website. Thanks for sharing L’CHAIM, and thanks for letting us know what you liked and what you want to see more of on our pages. L’CHAIM is all about you, and we need readers to tell us how to serve the San Diego Jewish community.

In the coming months, we look forward to bringing you engaging stories on topics such as spirituality, parenting, b’nai mitzvot, arts and culture, synagogue life, fashion, food, theatre and of course anything else that screams “To Life!” We’ve already begun work on our next issue. We’ll be covering winter holidays, traditions and local news you should know, as well as thoughts on the end of one year and the delightful beginning of the next. It’s a great time to celebrate life, at least, that’s what we think.

Thanks again, and L’CHAIM!

“Mazal tov on the launch, I have the issue right here!

It looks beautiful.”

- Jessica “As a Jewish person, I appreciate the way L’Chaim addresses Jewish culture and ideals in a modern and unique way.”

- Jessie K Beautiful issue...

Congrats!

- Magic Mike “Congrats on the first issue.

Hope you continue successfully.”

- Toni R.

Great magazine! Mazel tov.

- Aaron

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SPIRITUAL l by yigal adato

what

jew mean Authentic Beauty

I

n September, my wife and I took a weekend in Portland, Ore., to see the sights and get out of town for a few days.

With no agenda or planned itinerary, we were able to explore all that the city had to offer, from what seemed like never ending pine trees, parks and gardens to delicious food everywhere we went. We rented a car and drove along the incredible scenic Route 30 until we found quite a few picturesque waterfalls, too.

It was the perfect getaway, and made me realize how much I love nature. The city is truly gorgeous. So gorgeous, in fact, that my wife and I kept cracking jokes about how we want to move to Portland. Everywhere we went, people were helpful and the service was top notch. One day, as we finished a

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

tour of the waterfall trail and were having lunch at a small, nearby town called Hood River, we began to Google the history and facts about the area, and learned some puzzling facts.

Did you know that Portland has one of the top suicide rates in the nation? Did you know that it also has one of the largest homeless populations, as well as some of the most crime due to heroin use in the nation? On the outside, it would seem that Portland is perfect but on the inside, there is some very deep pain.

This got me thinking about our perception of others. Seeing a nice car, house, or even clothes and sometimes, facial expressions gives us the perception that those around us are doing okay. But are they truly happy?

We all have a backstory; a narrative that either propels us to success or holds us back.

Many times it’s the story that holds us back that doesn’t allow us to be our authentic selves.

Portland was authentic, we just chose to look at the pretty side and ignore the rest.

The same can hold true with our friends and family. We even tend to pretend to be fine just to be accepted in our communities, and because of this we perceive others the same way. Many of us hold back our authentic selves, and in turn, so do the people we love. You can see why this would be problematic; this can only create a superficial relationship.

So what does it mean to be authentic? First of all, it takes sharing who you are and who you are not. This is the hardest step because most of us have a fear of not fitting in and at the same time, wanting to look good in front of others. If we are able to put those fears aside, we will be able to be we you truly want to be. This is because your true self is the catalyst that determines the course of your goals and dreams. This month, I challenge you to look at yourself and ask, “Who am I?” and “What is important to me?”

Once you answer those questions, share and ask people around you what is important to them. I promise you will begin to foster a bond that will be stronger and more connected than ever before. You won’t even have to leave town to do it!

by rabbi Daniel bortz l torah

of the

book

The Humble Hut of Trust A traveler was once passing through a small town in Eastern Europe.

Hearing of a famed Rabbi who lived there, he decided to stop in and meet him. Upon reaching the holy man’s tiny cottage, the traveler was shocked to see how destitute such a famous person lived.

The peeling walls of the living room housed one rickety table, two wooden chairs and an old bookcase. He looked at the famed sage in wonderment and asked, “Rabbi! Where is all of your furniture?”

As many Jews do, the Rabbi answered a question with a question.

“My friend”, he replied, “where is all of your furniture?”

Caught off guard by such a strange question, the traveler responded, “But Rabbi, I’m only passing through here!”

The sage replied, “I too am only passing through here.”

As the Jews escaped the slavery of Egypt, they fled into the vast desert on their way to Israel, wandering for 40 years. The Torah tells us that throughout this journey, clouds of glory sheltered them. As a remembrance of this protection, for seven days every year, it is tradition to leave the comfort of one’s home for a humble hut called a sukkah.

(Outside of Israel, the observance lasts eight days.) During this time, our eating, drinking, and leisure activity occur inside the sukkah, which serves as our temporary dwelling.

There are powerful lessons to be learned from every tradition brought down in Jewish law. The flimsy outdoor dwelling of the sukkah emphasizes our dependence

and trust in a power beyond ourselves.

Throughout the year we dwell under a sturdy shelter that meets all of our needs and comforts. This can lead to an artificial sense of invulnerability. From the tragedies of New Orleans and Haiti, to the missiles raining down from Gaza, we know that our health, safety and livelihood depend on greater factors than only our efforts. But as we sit inside the simple sukkah walls, feeling the open breeze of the night’s sky, we are reminded of this higher force that watches over us, the source of our blessings.

If we remember that we’re only travelers in this temporary life like a sukkah, accumulating the true worth of good deeds and wisdom as opposed to transient gain,

thankful for the breath and life granted us each day, our usual worries may become a little less overwhelming. The sukkah teaches us as well that there is a higher power, more dependable than brick and mortar, always protecting and watching over us.

A sukkah, at the bare minimum, must be made up of 2 ½ walls. Some say that this interesting number symbolizes a Divine love for each of us, since when embracing another person, one’s arm extends around the other and the forearm curves around the back, with the wrist and hand facing back to him, equivalent to 2 ½ walls of love.

This embrace of love on Sukkot is emphasized by the additional day of celebration after Sukkot ends, known as Simchat Torah. As 11th-century sage, Rashi, describes the holiday: “[Gd says to Israel,] “I have detained you [to remain] with Me.” G-d cannot bear to be “separated” from us, as we emotionally disconnect after the holidays, so He desires one more day of connection. And how do we connect on Simchat Torah? Not through study, prayer, or fasting, but through dancing and joy.

May we increase our joy and trust during these holidays, experiencing them anew and drawing down renewed inspiration for growth in the year ahead. Chag Sameach!

Rabbi Daniel Bortz is the director of JTEEN of San Diego.

Learn more at jteensd.org.

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random rants l by SALOMON MAYA

my

comic relief

To Live and Breathe as a Mexican Jew

Y

eah you didn’t read that title wrong.

I’m just going to say it San Diego, I am Mexican, and I am Jewish. It is possible.

So let’s back up a moment, I feel like I started off going 90 mph in a school zone.

I’ve been given the opportunity to write in this amazing magazine and when asked what I would write about I truly just wanted to say, well … me. Obviously as a local actor and one-time failed stand-up comedian it’s always about me.

No, seriously, it always is.

But I digress. My whole life I’ve had to explain to people how it’s possible to be both Mexican and Jewish. The question I always get asked is, “So, which one of your parents is Jewish and which is Mexican?”

You should see their faces when I say both.

Both my father and mother were born in Mexico and both are Jewish; always have been. They met and married in Tijuana in 1969 and quickly crossed the border— legally I might add. (Please, I don’t want INS knocking on my poor dad’s house in the afternoon and disturbing his endless watching of Game Show Network.)

But I digress. Again. So, after their wedded bliss my mom popped out a couple of kids and I was third. I believe my first incident with the Mexi-Jew confusion came in elementary school. It was always around early November every year when the teachers would start breaking out the brown and orange crayons for Thanksgiving 10

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

coloring, soon followed by the greens and reds for … well … you know. And there I sat, in Halecrest Elementary in Chula Vista with the outline of a turkey on one paper and a Christmas tree on the other. I drew and decorated the turkey, no problem. But the paper with the Christmas tree stared back at me as I stares at it absentmindedly.

It was then that it happened; the first time I had ever been asked the question. My third grade teacher—Ms. Gurney—came to me and asked what was wrong, and I told her that I was Jewish. Ms. Gurney, a sweet, plump, salt-and-pepper curly haired woman, looked down at me as if to say “child don’t worry you’re not the first Jew I’ve had in my class,” and quickly took my Christmas tree paper and exchanged it for one with a Menorah on it. This I knew … this I could color. But as Ms. Gurney walked away she turned around and said, “But wait, Salomon, aren’t you Mexican?”

I have had to answer this question countless times since. So much so that I contemplate just tattooing the MexicanJewish Wikipedia page on my forearm.

Some of you might think, “No way people don’t know about Mexican Jews.”

Well let me present this real-life incident for my sceptics. Recently, I went on an audition for a local theatre’s new show. The people there know me from past work I’ve done and they’re the most amazing people to work with. The part I was reading for was “a tough barrio thug trying to be king.” (For

I always get asked, “So which one of your parents is Jewish?”

You should see their faces when I say both. those who know me personally, feel free to laugh.) As I completed the audition I was told I was very convincing as a Mexican.

I said thank you and remarked that I had been rehearsing for 34 years. We both laughed and I started to walk away, but I only took a couple steps before the person took me by the arm. I turned around and saw the same look that Ms. Gurney had in third grade.

The person tilted their head and asked “wait, but aren’t you Jewish?” Oy.

By binyamin kagedan/jns.org l yom kippur

Sneakers

on

FAST DAYS When spirit and letter collide

T

he wider world of traditional Judaism is moving in fits and starts toward a renegotiation of the terms of halakhic observance. At question is the importance of social change in the understanding and application of the legal logic of the sages of old. In the last several years, voices from within the Orthodox fold have raised a formidable challenge to certain established norms of Jewish life and law.

Another, which appears to have escaped popular scrutiny so far, is the injunction against wearing leather shoes on the fast days of Tisha B’Av and Yom Kippur— though the reason for the disparity in critical interest should not be hard to comprehend.

Rabbinic law from the Talmud delineates five prohibitions that apply equally on Tisha B’Av, the day of greatest tragedy, and Yom Kippur, the day of gravest repentance. These are: eating/drinking, marital relations, applying cosmetics, bathing, and wearing leather shoes. The intention is to create an experience of uncomfortable abstinence, in one case as a sign of mourning, and in the other as a method of self-purification.

And yet for the observant Jew living in the

age of Nike, the prohibition against leather shoes has only meant that twice a year, every year, on the two most solemn days of the year, we were allowed to wear our most comfortable shoes to synagogue.

True, not everyone came in gel-soled basketball shoes.

Many opted for funky rubber flipflops with socks, or the ubiquitous white Keds.

It isn’t as though the irony of the situation is totally lost on modern Jews. I recall my elementary school teachers taking the time to explain the reasoning behind the prohibition as that leather shoes were once the most comfortable kind of footwear, back when these rules were first being written.

Implicit in the inclusion of this clarifying detail was an acknowledgment that we are now living in the absolute reverse situation: that at this point in history, the leather shoe epitomizes podiatric discomfort.

Traditional halakha, as it often does, stands firmly planted in an older order of things, in this case collapsing upon itself in a way that precludes any of its original meaningfulness.

That the prohibition against leather shoes is really a prohibition against comfort—rather than stemming from some ritual problem with leather itself— is demonstrated meticulously by Dr. Ari Zivotofsky of Bar-Ilan University, who cites a wealth of legal writings beginning with the Talmud that address the problem of what type of shoe ought to be worn on Tisha B’Av and Yom Kippur. The masters of the

Talmud variously sported shoes of bamboo, reeds or palm branches, or wrapped simple pieces of cloth around their feet.

Maimonides advised that whatever shoes are chosen should be flimsy enough so that the wearer feels virtually barefooted as they walk. In a similar vein, the Ba’al HaMaor, a contemporary of Maimonides, includes within the category of prohibition any shoe that is especially protective of the feet.

Although many Jewish communities continue to “sidestep” the sneaker contradiction, some contemporary authorities have issued rulings intended to rescue the spirit of the law. Zivotofsky notes the opinion of Rabbi Yaakov Ariel of Ramat Gan, Israel, who adds to the prohibited list any non-leather shoe that one would commonly choose to wear day in and day out for their comfort, i.e. sneakers and other leisure footwear. Other legalists such as Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch uphold the “protectiveness” approach, expanding the prohibition to any material construction that functions as well as leather.

On the other side, Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach manages to resolve the problem more leniently, asserting that all modern people fall under the Talmudic category of istinis, roughly meaning “persnickety.” In Rabbi Auerbach’s view, given our very low tolerance for physical discomfort, banning comfortable non-leather shoes on Tisha B’Av and Yom Kippur would be tantamount to unnecessary cruelty.

Wishing all mindful and meaningful fasts this Yom Kippur, and remember: don’t judge another man’s shoes until you’ve walked a mile in them.

Binyamin Kagedan has an M.A. in Jewish Thought from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. He can be reached at bkagedan@gmail.com.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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CHAI LIFE l by stephanie d. lewis

Community in Carlsbad: Jewish Collaborative of San Diego

L

ast February, during one of San Diego’s rare rainstorms (my mood dampening as much as the weather when the realization hit me that I would soon be turning the Big 5-0 as a recently divorced, single mother of six, with no career in sight) I nearly declined my

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

dear friend’s impromptu invitation to a “community Shabbat dinner” held in a local recreational room in Carlsbad. Luckily for me, she was extraordinarily persuasive.

Arriving slightly late, shy and nervous (my typical M.O), my spirits immediately brightened as I opened the door to the

New Synagogue model built by, for congregants

welcoming glow of Shabbat candles and contagious laughter emanating from the full room. I was immediately approached by a tall, vivacious, dark-haired woman with a warm smile, Cantor Gabi Arad (also an ordained Rabbi). Arad is married to Rabbi Josh Burrows, the infinitely taller, but

chai life

equally engaging co-founder of the Jewish Collaborative of San Diego (JCoSD).

As I partook in some stimulating conversation whilst sharing a delicious potluck meal with mostly new (yet a few familiar) faces, I surveyed the unusual banners hanging on each of the four walls in the room. “Why am I a member of a synagogue?” “Why am I not a member of a synagogue?” “What can my synagogue do for me?” and “What can I do for my synagogue?”

I realized I hadn’t merely walked into an ordinary room for a nice Shabbat dinner. I had quite metaphorically opened the door to a whole new world, which would turn out to be a life-changing, all-inclusive, ongoing Jewish experience for me.

I called my ex-husband and he, along with my children, arrived within the hour.

I wanted them to experience this night with me, too. At 9 p.m., we were strolling home, arm-in-arm, literally singing in the rain. We didn’t exactly give Gene Kelly any competition, but we did belt out our personal encore of “Hinei Ma Tov,” kind of

on-key. It was a complete family bonding memory. And it was totally magical.

So what was in the air that night? The same thing that permeates the oxygen I deeply inhale at every community gathering or event I have attended since joining JCoSD: a palpable atmosphere of care, concern, cohesiveness, continuity and collaboration. There’s more to it of course than those five C’s, but here’s how I knew this was the start of something big for me.

That first night we were asked to sit under the sign that “spoke to us.” I consciously chose “What can I do for my synagogue?” because nobody had ever asked me a question like that before. And boy, did I have answers! My ideas were greeted with attentiveness and terrific enthusiasm from the rest of the people under the same sign.

In fact, some of those grand plans of mine have already been implemented, (others are very much in the works) and I feel gratified knowing that the very things I am passionate about can actually come to a realistic fruition. This is empowerment with a capital E.

I attribute the intense emotional and spiritual fulfillment I have today to the fact that JCo (a catchy nickname (pronounced Jay-Co), heartily embraces an incredible motto: “Don’t just Affiliate, Collaborate!”

This is truly a multi-generational, post denominational, highly democratic, and extraordinarily participatory Jewish community.

But what does that really mean? For me, it means that I matter. My family matters. The 5-year-old member who finger paints Stars of David’s matters. Our 89-year-old member who croons Broadway show tunes to us during our “community lounge nights” matters. Young and old, big or small, it’s all for one and one for all at JCoSD. And how are these distinctive values and unique perspectives conveyed to members?

The first way is with sheer amounts of something so simple, yet scarce and treasured these days: Time. On that fateful, rainy Shabbat evening, I signed my name on a special clipboard, which designated me to participate in a one-on-one talk with either Rabbi Josh or Cantor Gabi.

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13

CHAI LIFE

At JCoSD, we are building a synagogue interface the fits our interests, needs and schedules.

This includes opportunities to find our own spirituality … using Judaism as a guide.

And talk I did. And Cantor Gabi listened for hours. She genuinely wanted to hear all about my hopes, dreams, and aspirations.

And my disappointments, regrets, and grief tumbled out quite organically as well.

It was cathartic and I would have spent a fortune utilizing that same amount of time with a therapist! But these sessions are not only designed to help the Rabbi and Cantor get to know their congregation (and what makes us tick) but also to help us figure out what we’re inspired to do at JCoSD; and how we might get the most out of synagogue and community involvement.

Because let’s face it, some people don’t even know what’s meaningful to them anymore in today’s harried, upside-down world. It’s amazing that these one-on-ones are offered to and encouraged for every single member.

What stood out for me the most during this one-on-one conversation was that I wasn’t interrupted and my conversation wasn’t steered in a specific direction. It was solely my time, my turn, and my chance to be heard. Do you know how precious that is? I wept. Not because I was sad, scared, or pressured, but because it was the most beautiful thing anyone had ever really done both for and with me.

One-on-ones also guide you to think in terms of more detail regarding a special highlight of JCoSD: cohort groups. In these groups, members connect based on common interests and goals. So far, we have organized ourselves into five general themes: the arts, scholarly pursuits, meditation/mindfulness/prayer, health & healing and social action. As we grow, these 14

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

groups will become more specific in their areas of interest.

The cohort groups are a completely unique way to facilitate significant social interactions. It far and away transcends and indeed completely exceeds the conventional rigidity I am accustomed to at previous synagogues, which base enrichment divisions on categories like gender (Sisterhood) or age (senior citizen clubs). At JCoSD, you can sing your song, paint your masterpiece, or write your novel.

Recently, members of the arts cohort gathered in an intimate circle of chairs at our brand new facility in Carlsbad, cheering each other on while sharing our gifts, hidden talents and skills. Someone danced, another displayed sculptures, people read their poetry aloud, there was a singer, a member desired critiques on an innovative new product she wanted to market, and a baker needed opinions on her new recipe. Written feedback was offered to the presenters on an optional basis.

Afterward, everyone agreed it had been remarkable and would be the first of many such evenings! Personally, my self-esteem and pride could not be contained as I drove home that night.

As of this writing, my 12-year-old eagerly attends a personalized Hebrew program with a few other JCoSD tweens in preparation for her Bat Mitzvah in January.

My 17-year-old daughter is readying herself to attend a musical workshop with Cantor Gabi. She’s thrilled to know she can pursue her dreams while being taken seriously and treated with respect amongst the adult

members. And I love watching each of my children flourish.

At JCoSD, we are building a synagogue interface that fits our interests, needs and schedules. This includes opportunities to find our own spirituality, join specialized learning programs, work with others to create and share art, work on social action projects and campaigns, get involved in community engagement, provide support and care for those in need, and so much more. We do all these things using Judaism as an anchor and guide.

My final and most vivid memory of that rainy Shabbat dinner where I was first introduced to JCoSD is that of a group question and answer period. People were slightly baffled as to what this new concept of “Jewish collaboration” was all about.

One by one, we raised our hands, quizzing Rabbi Josh, “How long will services run?”

“Which prayers are you going to decide to recite?” “How many times a month will cohort groups meet?” Each time he replied, I caught on a little more to the forming pattern of his response. “I don’t know.

How long do you want services to run?” or “I don’t know. Which prayers do you think should recite?” Clearly there was no “you” or “me” here; JCoSD was going to be comprised of a “we” and an “us.”

As time passes and member friendships strengthen, I like to think back on that wet, stormy night, by recalling the famous idiom, “When it rains, it pours” Only this was truly an outpouring of community, support, love and collaboration!

For more, visit jcosd.com, or call (760) 7077111.

Stephanie D. Lewis is a single mother of six and a regular contributing writer to the Huffington Post. She is a humorist at Once Upon Your Prime (thequotegal.wordpress. com) and has a published novel called “Lullabies & Alibis.” She can be reached at thequotegal@yahoo.com.

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COURTESY STEPHANIE WELLS

l’chaim l by alanna MAYA

16

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

l’chaim

a THOUSAND

WORDS Stephanie Wells, Double Happiness Jewelry

With clients like Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Britney Spears and Oprah, Stephanie Wells needs no introduction in the fashion world.

The San Diego-based jewelry designer and owner of Double Happiness Jewelry is known for her thoughtful, eclectic and sometimes personalized handmade pieces made from quality gemstones and metals.

Fabric, crystal and paper goods also find a home in her jewelry case, and no two items are the same.

She has been featured in countless magazines and is a favorite among more than a few celebrities, but has taken a small step out of the limelight for now, to focus on new projects, like raising her children, Golda and Geffen. A ninth generation descendant of the Baal Shem Tov, Wells even has a small Judaica collection with pieces for children and adults. She is what you might call “a cool Jew,” and you’ll feel like you’re talking to an old friend if you have the occasion to meet her. Wells spoke with L’CHAIM about her rise to fame, her step back, and what’s next.

LCHAIM: How did you become a jewelry designer?

STEPHANIE WELLS: Fourteen years ago I went from a high-powered finance job in the states to teaching English to Palestinians and Jews in Jerusalem. I was there for six months, and then I moved to Tel Aviv, where I lived for two and half years before deciding that I wanted to come home.

But first, I went to Ethiopia and India and backpacked around. When I came back, I lived out of my backpack because my things hadn’t come back from Israel. One item that I had with me was a seed bead necklace that I had gotten from the Bedouin kids in the Sinai desert, and I wore it around my waist.

[Someone who saw me wearing it] and bought it for $45. I took that $45 to a bead store and tried to learn how to replicate that necklace, and that’s how I started my business and named it Double Happiness.

Then, I grew into stones because I love semiprecious stones, and I wore and sold the pieces as I was wearing them. Meanwhile, my sister wanted to quit her job in New York, so she came to visit me and saw the jewelry I was wearing, brought it back with her to New York, and started to represent my line [there]. The next thing I knew, my jewelry was in Saks Fifth Avenue and in Anthropologie and all these major stores.

LCHAIM: Why “Double Happiness”?

STEPHANIE WELLS: The meaning behind Double Happiness came from what I call a karmic chain reaction: When you wear my jewelry, people notice you and you get confidence, take that in, and spread it. So we will adorn your body and your home while aligning your energy.

LCHAIM: When did you get your “big break”?

STEPHANIE WELLS: After my sister started

to represent me, I presented my line at Fresh Faces in Fashion, a major event in New York. There was one email that changed my life, and it said, “Congratulations, you have been accepted.” I didn’t apply to this program, and out of thousands of applicants I got in based off of photographs of my jewelry submitted by my sister. I was the only jewelry designer there, and I launched my collection at the same show that Zac Posen launched his. Overnight, I had the news calling, magazines calling, MTV … everything was happening.

Eventually, we grew into a business where I had a 2,200 square-foot office space with 15 employees. I was approached by a publishing company to write a book about making earrings, which became the number eight best-selling craft book for 2010; and that turned into a TV show on Jewelry Television. It was really crazy, but my kids were 6 and 2, respectively, so I started to think about winding down a bit.

LCHAIM: What did you do during that time?

STEPHANIE WELLS: I started to prioritize my life and my values and my family, and I let go of what so many people dream of. I was there, [at the top] and I just didn’t want it anymore, so I scaled back.

I started working in my home studio on smaller projects, and with a few select clients. I found a love for interior design and began to experiment with chandeliers,

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17

l’chaim

Check it out doublehappinessjewelry.com

giving them the “double happiness” touch.

My first piece was picked up by the JCC and still hangs in the sacred space at the La Jolla campus. I wanted it to be whimsical, and although it’s not obvious, if you look inside, you will see a bird in its nest.

LCHAIM: Is that what you are working on now?

STEPHANIE WELLS: Well, my vision with home furnishings is to show people the properties of stones and the values of stones.

There is an element of the metaphysical and lore surrounding stones. For example, amethyst is a very powerful stone, with the power to reduce cravings. So my vision is to create home furnishings using semi precious stones. There is an element of whimsy there too, so you will see fabrics and what I have done with clay and wood and silk in my jewelry will be represented in these new pieces.

Now, people will be able to customize their space based on the type of energy they want in their home, in the same way 18

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

that we are able to choose the pieces of jewelry we wear. What I hear people say about my jewelry is that they wear it and they get compliments on it, and they take that energy in, they feel good, and when they interact with the world, they share that energy. So, I am going for the same feeling with items for the home.

LCHAIM: What is your favorite material to work with?

STEPHANIE WELLS: I am obsessed with agate right now. I like working with lots of materials, but the thing that I love about agate and lighting is that it is semi-opaque, so if you put it somewhere where there will be light behind it, that light will just emanate out of the piece.

LCHAIM: How has it been to see your work being worn by celebrities?

STEPHANIE WELLS: I still can’t believe it. When people call and ask for my pieces, it’s unreal. Oprah bought her first pair of

double happiness earrings at a store in Malibu, and wore them right after she got her ears pierced on her show. That same day, Carrie Underwood won American Idol in one of my pieces. It was the craziest day, but it was really exciting, and it’s been a really interesting road.

LCHAIM: What’s next?

STEPHANIE WELLS: Because of my jewelry, I have gotten to know people; producers and publicists, and I just finalized a contract to work with the TBS network to use my chandeliers in an upcoming television show this fall. I want to do more with pieces for the home. I want to do Shabbat candlesticks in addition to the chandeliers, and I will continue to make jewelry.

Join the mailing list to be invited to parties and sales by emailing your contact information to Stephanie@ doublehappinessjewelry.com

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

19

exclusive: BOOK FAIR l by alanna maya

Jewish Tales and Storytellers Literary treasures abound at the 20th annual Jewish Book Fair

20 L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

exclusive: BOOK FAIR

SAN DIEGO JEWISH BOOK FAIR

I

t’s back! The San Diego Jewish Book Fair will return to this year for the 20th annual program Nov. 8-10 at Temple Solel and Nov. 13-16 at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, bringing with it a new batch of authors and books to keep you busy in the coming months. As always, the selection committee has put together an exciting program of new and notable authors and programs with some longloved favorites.

“In May, Amazon noted that San Diego is the most well-read city [in the U.S.]” Director of Literary Arts & Education, Marcia Tatz Wolner said.

“I think this bodes well for the San Diego Jewish Book Fair. We have many patrons of the arts in San Diego, and the book fair is seen as both a cultural event as well as a literary one. The fact that we have had this program for 20 years and that we have it at multiple venues shows that the interest in Jewish literature, Jewish culture and building Jewish community is on the rise.”

Wollner says this year some of the programming has been pumped up to increase the conversation around particular topics. For example, two author presentations will be accompanied by doctors who work in the respected fields of expertise in discussion.

“Our Rebecca Alexander program is a story of triumph over tragedy,” Wollner says, referencing one such program.

Alexander’s book, Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found details the author’s life with Ascher Syndrome. The disease has left her almost completely blind and deaf. A tragic accident at age 18 left her body completely shattered, though she has since recovered.

“In the meantime, she is also a psychotherapist with two Masters’ degrees from Columbia, an extreme athlete and a spin instructor,” Wollner says. “So, we really have these two ends that work together, and we will have a doctor that specializes in Asher Syndrome in conversation with her. I think that it will be an interesting and

inspiring discussion.

Dr. Daniel Gibbs, who has an extensive background in gene therapy for retinal degenerative disease, neuro-degenerative disease and viral vector development will also present during Alexander’s session at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16.

In a similar program, author Randy Susan Myers, book fair alumni and San Diego favorite (Myers has been a previous guest of JFS’s Project SARAH) will present her latest work, Accidents of Marriage, which tells the story of a marriage in crisis when domestic violence takes a toll on the husband, wife and their 14-year-old daughter. Meyers will present alongside David B. Wexler, PhD.; a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of relationships in conflict.

The cornerstone event at this year’s book fair will undoubtedly be Eddie Shapiro’s reading and discussion of Nothing Like a Dame: Conversations With the Great Women of Musical Theater on Saturday, Nov. 15. In Shapiro’s book, Chita Rivera, Carol Channing, Elaine Stritch, Patti Lupone and other iconic leading women share memories of life on Broadway.

The event is also a great chance to

celebrate the book fair’s journey over the last 20 years.

“It just so happens that all of our past book fair chairs have been women, so Nothing Like a Dame fits in for that sentiment, and there will be something really nice and special that we will do to honor these women on that evening and during the discussion of the book,” Wollner says.

“That night is going to be the ‘splash’ for the book fair because right before that, we will host the Underwriter’s reception, and immediately following Nothing Like a Dame, our In The Mix crowd will host their book fair program.”

In the Mix will feature Matthew Hickstien’s Slimed: An Oral History of Nickelodeon’s Golden Age for members of the community in their 20s, 30s and 40s, who undoubtedly watched the kids television network and its infamous slimeing of guests growing up.

“I think it is going to be really fun, and [Hickstien] is bringing a few guests with him who will add to the really fun event where we will discuss Nickelodeon and the back stories behind the programs at Nickelodeon.”

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exclusive: BOOK FAIR

SAN DIEGO JEWISH BOOK FAIR But will there be slime? Wollner won’t confirm or deny the presence of the green goo ubiquitous with the television network, but says she has researched the recipe.

“I have looked up the recipe, so I know how to make it,” she says, “but I can’t say for sure that there will be any sliming of our guests or presenters—yet.”

Nickelodeon is not the only television channel to take center stage at the book fair this year. Journalist and Food Network aficionado Allan Salkin takes us behind the scenes of the now iconic station synonymous with all things food. In From Scratch: Inside the Food Network, Salkin details the 20year history of the station that launched the careers of some of our favorite tastemakers.

A panel featuring UT San Diego’s Dining and Lifestyle Reporter Michele Parente and eater.com blogger Candice Woo will follow Salkin’s discussion at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16. Panels, Wolner says, contribute to the book fair’s programming by getting more of the community engaged and excited about an event, which is why there are so many this year.

“We just want to try and get people here,” she says. “We have sports, we have Israel, we have something for veterans and something holocaust related, and because the book fair always spans the time surrounding Kristallnacht and Veteran’s Day we always commemorate those dates.”

For the first time, the book fair will

22 L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

travel to the North County Jewish Hub for the discussion of Citizen Farmers: The Biodynamic Way to Grow Healthy Food, Build Thriving Communities, and Give Back to the Earth, written by none other than The Ranch’s own Daron Joffe. Joffe, also known as “Farmer D,” is an expert in self-reliant farming and the sustainable food movement. Born in South Africa and later raised in Georgia, he is the founder and president of Farmer D Organics and the nonprofit Gan Chaim communitysupported farming project. In April 2014, he became The Ranch’s Development Director, and is largely responsible for the creation of the Jewish community farm and other farming projects. Following the program on Wednesday, Nov. 12, participants can take a tour of The Ranch in Encinitas.

In a major coup this year, Rabbi David Wolpe, hailed by Newsweek as “the most influential rabbi in America,” spiritual leader of the Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, a public speaker who has appeared on The Today Show and Face the Nation, and a leader of Conservative Judaism will speak at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 13. The Adult Education Center-sponsored event will be an engaging evening for all in attendance. In

David: The Divided Heart, Wolpe explores the story of King David with fresh eyes.

“As with all the programs and authors this year and every year, we always try and have a balance between those people who are big names and have a following here, while at the same time having the debut authors as well,” Wollner said of this year’s diverse and eclectic mix of presentations.

“Ari Shavit is the hot speaker this year, and he was just at an AIPAC event in town.

Although his book, My Promised Land was released almost a year ago, he is still one of the most influential journalists writing about Israel.

“I’m sure besides talking about his book, he will probably be talking about what is going on at the time [of his presentation] in Israel. It’s a really important thing for us to have someone give an insider’s perspective on what’s happening in Israel, and his book has gotten rave reviews, so we are very excited that he will be here.”

Shavit will speak at the Murray and Zelda Goodman Memorial Lecture, 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 10.

Local authors take the stage this year in different ways, too. Former book fair director Jackie Gmach, along with Hillary

exclusive: BOOK FAIR

SAN DIEGO JEWISH BOOK FAIR Selese Liber have penned From Bomboloni to Bagel: A Story of Two Worlds; a memoir of sorts about growing up in Europe and North Africa, then moving to Israel and finally settling in North America. Both women will be on hand at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 13.

“Especially since this is our 20th anniversary, I think it is nice to be able to honor local authors at the book fair,” Wollner says. “It brings everything together for us.

“We always have local authors sell their books whether or not they are presenting, but this year we took a page from the Comicon playbook, and will be hosting about 12 local authors for signings throughout the week, both at the JCC and at Temple Solel.

“This gives them the opportunity to have a more informal conversation with attendees about their book, sign and sell their books. It gives the authors a little more presence and honors them as a local author.

Some may be on the Jewish Book Council circuit, but some are not, and we are excited to see how this new programming is received.”

Diverse programming, engaging speakers and exciting new works make the book fair a must for any bibliophile, but attention to detail make the program exciting for all.

“We try and do something for everyone, so something that could be interesting for you might not be interesting for everyone else,” Wollner says.

“This is a big year for the JCC. There is a lot going on. We just had our 10th annual Yom Limmud, this will be the 20th annual Book Fair and next up, we will have the 25th annual Film Festival, so it’s great to have been around for such a long time, and to be so successful at what we do.

FAMILY DAY AT THE JEWISH BOOK FAIR

For tickets, more time/ location information and underwriter details, visit sdcjc.org/sdjbf.

12 p.m.- 1 p.m.

Family day at the Jewish Book Fair always brings in a couple hundred families and children. Family day is always free and always a great way to promote literacy to young readers. Join other families at the JCC on Sunday Nov. 16 to celebrate.

10 a .m.-1 p.m.

Children’s books store and Book Nook open Spend some quiet time with your child and read a book!

10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Kidzone Activity Stations: • Obstacle course • KidVentures • Craft Station • Art Soup

10:30 A.m.-11 a.m.

Activity sponsored by PJ Library

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

On Stage: • Diane Rauchwerger: Dinosaur Goes to Israel • On the Town and As One J*Company’s singing ambassador troupes perform musical selections • Caryn Yacowitz: I know an Old Lady who Swallowed a Dreidel

• Family Day Concert • Craig Parks in Concert WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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25

feature story l by alina dain sharon/jns.org

A tale of two Jewish student groups

W

hen Harvard Hillel refused to host a planned 2012 event titled “Jewish Voices Against the Israeli Occupation,” organized by the Harvard College Progressive Jewish Alliance and the Harvard Palestine Solidarity Committee, frustrated students wrote an open letter to the Hillel community criticizing the decision.

That letter has since led to the founding of “Open Hillel,” a broader movement calling on Hillel International—the Jewish campus umbrella represented on more than 550 colleges and universities—to allow the expression of more diverse points of view, including those critical of Israel.

The notion that Hillel International is not inclusive is one that the organization’s president and CEO, Eric Fingerhut, wants to dispel.

On Sept. 9, Fingerhut met with Open Hillel student representatives in Boston “in order to listen to their concerns and to personally convey that Hillel welcomes all Jewish students no matter their politics or perspectives,” he said after the meeting.

“We had a good and candid discussion and I appreciate [Open Hillel’s] 26

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

viewpoints,” Fingerhut said. “I am pleased that they understand the value in being part of the global Hillel movement. Hillel works hard every day to provide a highquality experience for all Jewish students on campus.”

Fingerhut also stressed Hillel’s inclusivity in an interview before meeting, but said Hillel would not compromise on its proIsrael mission.

“We are a pro-Israel organization,” he said. “It is part of our mission to encourage students to build an enduring commitment to Israel as a Jewish and democratic homeland. That is what we are, [and] that leaves within it a broad range to debate Israel’s policies, and where Israel might be right or wrong on particular issues.”

Lex Rofes, a Brown University alum and a member of Open Hillel’s student committee who helped organize the meeting with Fingerhut, said that at many campuses, students who sought “to create Jewish programming that was meaningful to them” have been told that they could not implement their plans, either because the programming itself included content or speakers overly critical of Israel, or because

they wanted to co-sponsor the event with a group that supports the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. Hillel’s official Israel guidelines state that it will not “partner with, house or host organizations, groups or speakers that delegitimize, demonize or apply a double standard to Israel.”

In December 2013, the Hillel student board at Swarthmore College voted to reject Hillel’s Israel guidelines and align itself with the Open Hillel movement. In response, Fingerhut wrote a public letter in which he stated that Hillel “expects all campus organizations that use the Hillel name to adhere to these guidelines. No organization that uses the Hillel name may choose to do otherwise.”

This past February, the Jewish Union at Vassar College in New York took a similar position, eliciting a statement by Fingerhut that said, “We agree that Hillel should and will always provide students with an open and pluralistic forum where they can explore issues and opinions related to their Jewish identity. We thank the Vassar students for their commitment to this value and accept their invitation for further conversation.” But Fingerhut reiterated that Hillel would not “give a platform to groups or individuals to attack the Jewish people, Jewish values or the Jewish state’s right to exist.”

“Our expectation is that all Hillel affiliates will continue to uphold these standards for partners and co-sponsors,” he said.

In April, a group of current and former Jewish student leaders at Connecticutbased Wesleyan University announced that the Hillel-affiliated Wesleyan Jewish Community was also rejecting the umbrella group’s Israel guidelines.

Rofes believes Fingerhut’s responses to Open Hillel’s concerns, particularly to the incidents at Swarthmore and Vassar, have been a “mixture.”

“I thought that the initial blog post [Fingerhut] posted [on Swarthmore] wasn’t necessarily the kind of tone I would have loved, but I understand their disagreement with Swarthmore’s decision and that’s their

feature story

right,” he said.

Fingerhut’s wording on Vassar was more to Rofes’s liking, and he added that “in other regards [Hillel has] responded positively to us.”

Hillel’s responses to the Swarthmore and Vassar decisions were the same, Fingerhut said.

“Hillel’s guidelines are what they are, and all Hillels are expected to work within those guidelines,” he said.

Hillel International also sent representatives to both campuses to address the concerns.

“We try to work with students to accommodate as much as they want to do as possible within the guidelines,” Fingerhut said.

For the meeting, Open Hillel student representatives did not prepare to raise any specific concerns, but simply wanted to listen to Hillel International’s strategy on Israel for the coming year, including the potential establishment of a student cabinet, which Rofes sees as a sign of Hillel’s growing commitment to student empowerment.

“We got an email that Hillel is interested in meeting, [and] we of course were happy to go and do that,” Rofes said. “[We were] just looking to sort of check in” and discuss ways to “find some common ground and work together,” he added.

Fingerhut’s goal is to assure students of how welcome they are at Hillel.

“There’s nothing involved in Hillel’s Israel guidelines that in any way excludes any student based on any opinion they might have,” Fingerhut said, differentiating between students’ ability to express a diversity of views on Israel within Hillel’s tent, but not to partner with anti-Israel organizations on a Hillel-sponsored activity.

Another voice speaking out on the issue is Safe Hillel, a campus movement created in response to Open Hillel with the goal—much like Hillel itself—to dispel misconceptions about Hillel’s lack of inclusiveness.

“Hillel is an open and welcoming

organization with a mission statement, and they stand for their mission statement like any other organization should and does,” Daniel Mael, a junior at Brandeis University and one of Safe Hillel’s founders, said.

Hillel is not stifling student opinions, but simply saying is that it “will not sponsor hate groups, and anti-Semitic and antiIsrael speakers,” said Mael.

Rofes, however, said Open Hillel just wants “a conversation where people can counter one another, and can grow from one another and understand each other’s perspectives.”

To that end, Open Hillel is holding a conference from Oct. 11-13 at Harvard University that will include a variety of speakers—among them well-known BDS activist Judith Butler.

“We would love Hillel International to send some folks to the conference, and we actually invited them a while back,” Rofes said.

According to Mael, Fingerhut’s willingness to meet with Open Hillel students and proactively hear their concerns is in line with Hillel’s overall philosophy and “disproves the entire thesis of Open Hillel as a farce.”

“Many of the Open Hillel people have a problem with the existence of the Jewish state of Israel, and they harbor intense hatred towards the Jewish state,” and therefore Hillel International “is doing what it can to maintain the pro-Israel integrity of its organization,” Mael said.

Ultimately, the issue of whether or not students feel welcome at Hillel is different than a notion of needing to agree on every issue, Fingerhut said.

“We’re never going to agree on everything,” he said. “That’s not possible when you represent all Jewish students on campus.”

For those who want to be involved with programs and groups that are not sanctioned by Hillel’s guidelines, “there are many [other] outlets on a campus” for that, Fingerhut added.

“Campuses are the most open places in society,” he said.

Alina Dain Sharon is a freelance journalist whose work has been published by The Los Angeles Time and The Jerusalem Post. Follow her on Twitter @adainsharon.

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feature story l By sean savage/jns.org

Jerusalem

of Gold

Biblical archaeology sees golden age in Israel, dark age in rest of Middle East

A

t a time when many archaeological sites and antiquities throughout the Middle East are being looted and destroyed, the City of David Foundation on Sept. 4 hosted its annual conference to enable the general public to experience some of the most important archaeological discoveries in Jerusalem in recent years.

A special portion of this year’s conference was devoted to the theme “Jerusalem of Gold,” highlighting several never-before-seen golden artifacts.

“The people in ancient times, like today, used gold for the most important things in life. It shows what they held dear and what was most important to

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2014

them,” Ahron Horovitz, senior director of Megalim, the City of David’s Higher Institute for Jerusalem Studies, said.

The main themes of the artifacts on display related to war, beauty, and holiness or sanctity. Among the golden artifacts is the largest cache of gold coins ever discovered in Jerusalem, comprising 264 coins that date back to the end of the Byzantine period in the 7th century CE. The coins were found in the “Givati Parking Lot dig” conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority in the City of David neighborhood.

The coins are unique in that they were minted in Jerusalem, not in Constantinople—the Byzantine imperial capital—and were likely made in

preparation for the Byzantine war against the Persians.

“The coins were found stacked one on top of another and were never dispensed,” Horovitz said. “There may be a story of intrigue here as to why they never were used, such as it being stolen.”

Additionally, a golden medallion featuring inscriptions of a menorah, shofar, and Torah scroll is on display for the very first time. The medallion was found in the Ophel excavation south of the Temple Mount and was believed to have been hung on a Torah scroll as a breastplate.

The discovery of the Jewish medallion, dating back to the time of upheaval in Jerusalem during the Persian-Byzantine

feature story wars, was a surprise for archaeologist Dr. Eilat Mazar, who unearthed the artifact.

There are normally not many Jewish items found from that period.

Mazar estimated that the medallion originates from the Persian conquest of Jerusalem in 614 CE. That year, many Jews helped the Persians conquer Jerusalem from the Byzantines, only to have the Persians turn against the Jews and ally with the Byzantine Christians later on, leading to the Jews’ expulsion once again.

“These finds tell us about the Jewish presence in Jerusalem in the late Byzantine period, which we didn’t know much about,” renowned Israeli archaeologist Dr. Gabriel Barkay, who spoke at the City of David conference, said.

“The artifacts help us understand that there was a strong messianic desire of the Jewish people at that time; many of them likely came from abroad in hopes of construction of the Third Temple,” he said.

Horovitz said the artifacts highlight the special bond Jews have with Jerusalem, as well as Jewish continuity in the holy city.

“It shows us that the Jews have a very special bond and connection with Jerusalem that continues to today,” he said. “So when modern day Israelis come and see these artifacts, they can feel that they are part of Jerusalem from a long time ago.”

Another golden artifact on display was an earring made of gold inlaid pearls and emeralds that dates back to the Roman period. A copy of this earring was given to First Lady Michelle Obama by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when she visited Israel in 2013.

Finally, one of the most unique and rare items on display was a golden bell discovered by Eli Shukron, an Israeli archaeologist and former director of City of David excavations for the Israel Antiquities Authority.

Throughout the years, Shukron has made a number of very significant finds from the period of the Second Temple of Jerusalem in and around the City of David, including the Pool of Siloam (mentioned numerous times in the Old and New Testaments), tunnels leading from the Western Wall, an ancient pilgrim road to Jerusalem, and the legendary citadel captured by King David when he conquered the city from the Jebusites.

One of the items Shukron discovered during his excavations of one of the Western Wall tunnels was a golden bell believed to have been part of the official vestments of the high priests of the Jewish Temple.

Described in Exodus 28:31-35, the priestly robe, also known as the “ephod,” was a sleeveless purple-blue or violet garment worn by the high priests that was fringed with small golden bells alternating with pomegranate-shaped tassels of blue, purple, and scarlet wool.

The golden bells were a necessary part of the ephod and needed to ring when the high priest entered the Holy of Holies.

“At first I just thought it was a ball and didn’t realize it was the golden bell from the high priests until I shook it and heard the ringing,” Shukron said. “No other artifact from the high priests like this has ever been discovered before.”

The City of David conference came amid a perilous time for Middle East archaeology, as sites from North Africa to Iraq have come under assault by Islamic fundamentalists and looters taking advantage of the breakdown of central governments.

“I think it is an atrocity,” Horovitz said.

“Islamic fundamentalist groups are on an ongoing crusade to destroy antiquities because they consider it against their religion, or they fear that their religion will be undermined by excavations that will show things that they are not happy about.”

The situation for artifacts is particularly dangerous in Syria and Iraq, where the Islamic State jihadist group has taken over large swathes of territory.

According to a report by The Guardian in June, Islamic State looted about $36 million in antiquities from the al-Nabuk region in Syria.

Reports indicate that much of the illegal smuggling, which is taxed by the Islamic State, is done by local Syrians and Turkish nationals, who then smuggle the artifacts across the border into Turkey and sell them to international antiquities traffickers on the black market.

Meanwhile, in the Iraqi city of Mosul, which was conquered by the Islamic State in June, the terror group has already destroyed important religious sites such as the Tomb of Jonah (the famous biblical prophet who was swallowed by a whale), and has threatened the Mosul Museum,

This golden medallion featuring inscriptions of a menorah, shofar, and Torah scroll was on display for the very first time during the City of David Foundation’s annual conference on Sept. 4 in Jerusalem. The medallion was found in the Ophel excavation south of the Temple Mount and was believed to have been hung on a Torah scroll as a breastplate.

which contains numerous artifacts from the nearby ancient city of Nineveh.

“These areas are where human culture began; they are the cradle of civilization.

[Islamic State] is destroying the heritage of mankind,” Horovitz said.

The frightening situation in the Middle East stands in stark contrast with Israel, which has one of the most robust and highly regulated antiquities departments in the world and is eager to preserve the country’s diverse past.

Nevertheless, the City of David Foundation, which works with the Israel Antiquities Authority in excavating important areas in Jerusalem, has come under intense scrutiny from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has called on the City of David to halt historical excavations.

“We should think about proper care of the cultures of the past,” Barkay said. “Instead of condemning these acts of looting that go on all the time in these Arab countries, UNESCO is obsessed with excavations and acts of preservation in Jerusalem because of political reasons.”

He added, “UNESCO should deal with salvaging the heritage of mankind instead of political matters.”

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FEATURE STORY l By SEAN SAVAGE/jns.org

Old Alliances, new

Threats [ [

Making sense of the rapidly changing Middle East

With old alliances being frayed and new threats emerging, making sense of the rapidly changing Middle East is increasingly difficult for even seasoned observers and analysts.

Disgruntled by President Barack Obama’s foreign policy in the region, some long-time American allies such as Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have begun openly criticizing the U.S. approach to issues like the Gaza conflict, with some even pivoting toward Russia. At the same time, the civil wars in Syria and Libya as well as instability in Iraq have proven to be fertile breeding ground for new and more brutal terrorist organizations, forcing regional and international actors into new alliances to meet this common threat.

While the world was focused on Israel and Gaza or the threat of the Islamic State terror group over the past summer, new Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi quietly made his first visit to Moscow on Aug. 12.

“Moscow recognizes Egypt as one of the central regional powers in the [Middle East], where Russia will try to strengthen its presence in the near future,” said Dr. Olena Bagno-Moldavsky, a research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) in Israel.

It is no secret that the U.S.-Egypt relationship has been strained in recent years. An extremely valued American ally since the 1979 Camp David Peace Accords, Egypt has received more than $1.3 billion in annual U.S. military aid, second to only Israel. But the U.S.

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“Egypt is free to have relationships with whoever it wants,” Harf said.

supported the early ouster of former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak in 2011, which angered other regional U.S. allies—like Saudi Arabia—who felt that the U.S. abandoned its long-time partner too quickly.

Adding to the complications, the U.S. also backed the Muslim Brotherhood government under former president Mohamed Morsi, who was elected in Egypt’s first democratic election. When Morsi was ousted in a popular military coup in July 2013 led by El-Sisi, then the defense minister, the U.S. temporarily suspended some of its military aid to Egypt over concerns related to democracy and human rights.

Yet Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his dealings with Ukraine, has shown that he has little concern for issues relating to democracy and human rights. Like Putin, El-Sisi is a nationalist leader who values stability, especially in light of the growing threat of political Islam from the Muslim Brotherhood and other jihadist groups.

Besides the countries’ shared political philosophies, Egypt is a big market for Russia in terms of trade and regional politics, said BagnoMoldavsky of INSS. “Egypt is a desirable customer of Russia’s military complex (the contracts with Russia will be actualized with the financial support of Egypt by the Saudi Arabia), cooperation can be potentially fruitful in

photo: U.S. Department of State

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry meets with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the Presidential Palace in Cairo on July 22, 2014, to discuss a possible cease-fire deal for the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Relations between the U.S. and Egypt, longtime allies, have been strained since America supported the ouster of Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak in 2011.

the energy sector and civil engineering,” Bagno-Moldavsky said.

Despite El-Sisi’s trip to Moscow, U.S. State Department deputy spokesperson Marie Harf in a press conference after he visit, called the U.S.-Egypt relationship “strong and strategic,” downplaying any significant rift.

“Egypt is free to have relationships with whoever it wants,” Harf said.

Middle East Forum President Daniel Pipes told JNS.org that he believes Egypt’s gesture towards Moscow is a result of the U.S. position regarding Hamas-backing nations Qatar and Turkey in recent IsraelHamas cease-fire negotiations.

“El-Sisi is again signaling his anger at the U.S. government for cozying up to the Turkey-Qatar joint venture,” Pipes said.

Indeed, Egypt, along with other U.S. regional allies Israel and Saudi Arabia, openly criticized U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry for holding Israel-Hamas cease-fire talks with Qatar and Turkey in late July, but not including them.

At the same time, Qatar has been actively undermining its fellow Arab states by supporting the Muslim Brotherhood, which Egypt and Saudi Arabia have declared to be a terrorist organization, as well as its Palestinian offshoot Hamas.

Pipes, however, cautioned not to read too much into Egypt’s newfound love for Putin, saying he believes it comes more out of anger towards the U.S. and is not a major geopolitical shift back to the Cold War days.

“This is not the 1950s. It’s an Axis of Pique, not one of grand strategy,” Pipes said.

Over the past several years, the Middle East has been traditionally divided into two camps in what Pipes referred to as the “Middle East Cold War.” Pipes said this conflict has pitted the “resistance bloc and its allies” of Iran, Syria, and Hezbollah, who are tacitly supported by

Russia, against the “status quo” countries of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and others—even auxiliary members like the Palestinian Authority and Israel—who are largely aligned with the U.S. But more recently, another faction has emerged that has challenged this dynamic.

“In the past two years, a third, smaller faction has emerged: the Turkish-Qatari-Muslim Brotherhood one,” Pipes said. “This comes as a considerable surprise because the Saudis for decades supported the Muslim Brotherhood. But, apparently, when the crunch came and they had to decide between Islamism and method of rule, they chose the latter.”

Meanwhile, in Libya, the weak government there was recently aided in its fight against al-Qaeda-linked terror groups by secret airstrikes launched by the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, who have stepped up their fight against Islamic radicals. Even the U.S. was caught by surprise by these airstrikes, reports indicate.

Similarly, Israel has seen tensions with the U.S. rise in the wake of the failures of the American-brokered IsraeliPalestinian peace process. This recently came to a head when the Obama administration, according to a report

by The Wall Street Journal, tightened oversight of arms transfers to Israel amid Operation Protective Edge in Gaza.

Adding to the complications, both Qatar and Turkey are longtime allies of the U.S., which has its largest Mideast airbase—Al-Udeid Air Base—in Qatar, while Turkey is a valued member of NATO. Before a cease-fire was reached Tuesday, Israel saw both countries as actively undermining efforts to end the Gaza conflict.

Embattled Russian-backed Syrian President Bashar alAssad, meanwhile, has seen his fortunes rise once again as the new threat from the Islamic State poses a greater risk to regional and international security.

With the U.S. launching airstrikes in Iraq against the Islamic State and considering hitting Islamic State targets in Syria, Assad has expressed his willingness to coordinate attacks on the terror group with the U.S. But Pipes cautioned against such moves, arguing that the U.S. should remain focused on helping its allies.

“The outside world is best off when the monsters fight each other,” he said. “We should limit ourselves to humanitarian concerns and to helping our very few allies in the region—mainly Israel, but also now the Kurds.”

Considering all the regional changes, many have criticized the U.S. for its lack of engagement and for allowing these problems to fester, but Pipes said America is not solely to blame.

“Like most developments in the Middle East, this is indigenous, with influences from the outside, to be sure, but driven by local passions,” he said.

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headlines

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Moses was an IPA Guy

Join the San Diego Chapter of NCSY this month for a hands on “how to” session on home brewing. Participants will walk away with knowledge on how to make beer at home, alcohol’s role in Jewish tradition, Judaism’s connection to grain and harvest, and how we can transform and uplift the world through “making.”

This program is offered as part of Sukkot at the Ranch, put on by the Leichtag Foundation, Oct. 12, 3:15 p.m. For more information, contact Adam Simon, San Diego Director of NCSY at (619) 663-8672.

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Melvin garb hillel center at sdsu now open

The Melvin Garb Hillel Center was open as San Diego State University’s students came back for the fall semester in August. The 10,750 squarefoot modern building sits just a short walk from SDSU’s main campus and features a full kosher kitchen adjacent to a large room for Shabbat dinners, services, banquets, films and lectures. The downstairs great room houses a coffee bar, pool table, entertainment center and seating for casual gatherings and formal meetings. A large backyard will host barbeques and community celebrations.

The new building is the result of 30 years of hard work, dedication and planning. A dedication ceremony will be held at the facility Oct. 12. For more information, visit sdsuhillel.org.

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fidf event with cantor shai abramson

It was just a few short weeks ago that Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Chief Cantor, Lt. Col. Shai Abramson ventured to Israel’s front lines in Gaza, during Operation Protective Edge. Abramson and the IDF Choir went under fire to perform for Israel’s soldiers and offer them a brief respite from combat.

Abramson also served as the cantor at a dozen funerals for fallen IDF soldiers.

Challenging as it may have been, he remains grateful for and inspired by, the experience.

“During IDF’s Operation Protective Edge, we met with bereaved families who have shown profound internal fortitude,” Abramson said. “We came to support them, and they were the ones who strengthened us. Their spirit connects us all and reflects the unity that exists among us.”

FIDF San Diego is excited to host the cantor and choir at a special musical salute to the brave men and women of the IDF at 7 p.m., October 28 at the Balboa Theatre. All funds raised from the FIDF event will support wellbeing programs for IDF soldiers. For information, go to fidf.org/sandiego.

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San Diego premiere of “freud’s last session”

North Coast Rep hosts the San Diego Premiere of “Freud’s Last Session” Oct. 15-Nov. 19, featuring Michael Sano and Bruce Turk. Directed by David Ellenstein. A must-see for the discerning theatre-lover.

Near the end of his life, Sigmund Freud has a final visitor, the writer and former atheist C.S. Lewis, who is soon to publish “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Contrasting in styles, Freud is irascible and highly opinionated; Lewis, sunny, warm and unflappable. The result is a lively debate touching on love, religion, politics and life. Mark St. Germain infuses this fictional meeting with gentle humor and sharp dialogue.

Don’t miss it! Tickets at northcoastrep.org.

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humanitarian missions make huge impact for cubans in need

Los Angeles, Calif.—“Thanks for not forgetting us” is the ubiquitous response CHAI Missions’ participants hear from Cubans as they receive their “gifts,” the large plastic bags toted from the U.S., filled with urgently needed items. Founded by two Los Angeles women, CHAI Missions, Inc, is a Southern California based, non-profit 501(c)(3) humanitarian organization with immediate focus on Cuba’s Jewish community in need.

During week-long missions to the colorful island country, participants attend meetings with community leaders and notable educators in an intimate setting. They visit UNESCO sites, museums and art galleries led by an exceptional local guide. The group also enjoys everything from lively Cuban music and ballet to touring an authentic cigar factory. Some itineraries include interacting

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the holocaust and factory farming

By Jeffrey Cohan

Analogies to the Holocaust are frequently heard in the vegadvocacy movement.

On the surface level, it’s easy to understand why people who feel for the suffering of animals are sometimes quick to draw comparisons to the Nazi genocide.

Just consider the scope and volume of bloodshed in animal agriculture. In the U.S. alone each year, 9 billion farmed animals are callously and needlessly slaughtered. That’s right: 9 billion chickens, turkeys, cows, sheep and ducks.

However, Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA.org), the nonprofit organization for which I serve as executive director, normally refrains from comparing factory farming to the Holocaust.

In fact, we have counseled other veg-advocates to avoid drawing the comparison.

It’s an imperfect analogy to begin with. And besides, invoking the Holocaust will often offend or even outrage the person you’re trying to persuade to go veg, especially if that person is Jewish.

There is one person, however, who can legitimately and meaningfully bring the Holocaust into the conversation about plant-based diets.

That person is Warsaw Ghetto survivor Alex Hershaft, a JVNA board member and the founder of the Farm Animal Rights Movement (FarmUSA.org), another national organization.

with elementary school children and high-risk pregnancy clinics.

In addition to having a phenomenal time while forging new friendships, all trips bring scarce supplies such as medication, eyeglasses, school supplies and clothing to donate to the Jewish population there.

Through generous contributions, CHAI Missions participants have brought more than 1,400 pounds of goods and donated more than $12,000 in aid to the country, in addition to providing air conditioning for two synagogues; especially appreciated during the steamy Caribbean summer months. The next mission with availability is “Cuba East to West,” March 5–13, 2015 with itinerary to include: Miami, Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo and Havana.

Further information may be found at chaimissions.org or by contacting chaimissions@gmail.com.

Recently, Hershaft gave his first public presentation about his moral evolution from Holocaust survivor to farmed-animal advocate.

Speaking at Rodef Shalom Congregation in Pittsburgh, Pa., one of the flagship synagogues of the Reform Movement, he gave a dramatic, emotional account of how he and his mother escaped from the Warsaw Ghetto and barely stayed one step ahead of the Gestapo for the rest of the war.

Then he described how his terrible ordeal as a victim of Nazi oppression inspired him to champion the cause of farmed animals, who are branded, mutilated, confined in obscenely small cages, and then killed with knives or blades.

The event was presented by JVNA and co-sponsored by the Holocaust Center of Greater Pittsburgh. It was believed to be the first time an accredited Holocaust-education organization has cosponsored a program on this topic, and it was very well attended.

You might reject comparisons between the Holocaust and animal agriculture.

However, no one can deny Alex’s lived experience. No one can deny his personal story, or his empathy for other innocent, sentient beings who suffer pain, fear and premature death.

You can watch Alex’s riveting lecture online at JewishVeg.com/ hershaft-video.

Jeffrey Cohan is the executive director of Jewish Vegetarians of North America.

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CHAI LIFE l by sofie kinnefors

Areyah green speaks at federation the power of words

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n September, The Jewish Federation of San Diego County hosted Aryeh Green, journalist and Director of MediaCentral, a Jerusalem-based initiative and part of Honest Reporting, providing support services to foreign journalists based in or visiting Israel at a community event. For information on other events hosted by Federation, visit JewishinSanDiego.org.

Reporting from the Middle East is challenging. Journalists in Israel are subject to conflict of prospective, varying narratives, languages and cultures. Staying objective can be difficult.

Enter Aryeh Green, director of MediaCentral.

MediaCentral is a base camp for foreign journalists visiting or based in Israel.

The organization, which is not part of the government of Israel nor an advocate for Israel, helps journalists get their stories right by providing them with immediate and accurate information and access to sources, such as tour guides, translators and photographers.

“We want to help reporters achieve

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their goal of reporting accurately from the field,” Green said. “We’re not here to tell you Israel is always right. We’re here to help you go deeper into the nuances of the stories you are covering; to understand the complexities of the issues here.”

The organization has a diverse staff that includes Jews and a Palestinian Arab Muslim. Green, who grew up in San Francisco and spent the last 20 years in Israel, has served on the executive staff on Natan Sharansky’s Y’Aliyah Party and dedicated most of his life to promoting peace in the Middle East area. Green has also coordinated support for Jewish students around the world. He said MediaCentral owes much of its success to its approach to building relationships with journalists; in hopes that the media views MediaCentral as a partner rather than a competitor.

One of the positive effects MediaCentral has had on the media is the change in terminology used by major news outlets on the subject of Israel.

“The media’s language affects not only public attitude or the attitudes of the

media, but public policy and our decision makers,” Green said. “Even those who believe in Israel’s right to exist end up using language; calling territories ‘occupied territories’ instead of ‘disputed territories.’

The territories are legally, politically and historically [the subject of] dispute.”

Moreover, Green states that there are two major misconceptions about Israel today.

The first, that Israel is the oppressor and Palestine the underdog.

“Americans and Europeans at base support the underdog in a conflict,” Green said. “With our colonial past we support the ingenious people in any conflict that are being oppressed by some foreign colonial imperialist power. If we believe that the Palestinians are the underdogs in this conflict, then by definition we in the liberal West are going to support the Palestinians as underdogs and indigenous people.”

The other misconception has to do with the historical and political background of Israel.

“A general misconception is that Palestinian Arabs have lived in Israel for generations, if not eons, and that the European Jews came in as colonialists and imperialist implants with no connections to the land and therefore their presence is illegal and immoral,” Green said. “Some people believe that the guilt of European society over the Holocaust lead to the establishment of Israel.”

Green concludes that Judaism is both a national and religious identity. “We should have called the land Judea!” he said. “Jews going to Judea would have been better understood.”

Sofie Kinnefors holds a B.A. in Journalism from CSULB and is an internationally published travel and freelance writer, who lives in Stockholm, Sweden and Encinitas, Calif.

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