L'Chaim October 2015

OCTOBER 2015

CELEBRATING WOMEN OF THE IDF p.16

MATISYAHU

UNDER PRESSURE p.30

SENIORS

ISSUE

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

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Features 12 A Thousand Words La Jolla Playhouse’s WoW Festival

Cover Story 16 Celebrating Women of the IDF

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Seniors 22 Israel’s Senior Immigrants 26 Lifestyle 360 at the Remington Club

Features 30 Matisyahu:

King Under Pressure

34 Fighting, Racing and Working Toward Winning with Susan G. Komen

Food 28 Argentina: Eichmann,

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Empanadas and a lot of Jews Empanadas of Minced Beef, Olives and Capers with Chimichurri

Headlines 37 News to Know Now Columns

6 My Comic Relief 8 What Jew Mean 10 Of the Book 37 Mazel & Mishagoss

PUBLISHERS Diane Benaroya & Laurie Miller EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alanna Maya CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laurie Miller

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RANDOM RANTS l BY SALOMON MAYA “We want it fast, we want it now and when we get it we want to share it with the world.”

my

comic relief The Procaffeination of America

Procaffeinating: (n.) the tendency to not start anything until you’ve had a cup of coffee.

A

nyone who truly knows me understands that it is in his or her best interest to not bother me prior to my cup of morning Joe. I have selflabeled myself as “not a morning person” for quite some time now and the best thing about broadcasting it to the world is that I can pretty much get away with anything in the early a.m. due to this meaningless label. Hey, why is Salomon so mean today?

Oh he’s just not a morning person. Oh okay, that makes sense.

Does it really? Can I get away with anything I want by just stating I don’t have some Colombian power juice flowing freely through my veins? My road rage seems to diminish as the day grows, but if you even come within one meter of my side mirrors at 9 a.m., I’m more willing to flip you off.

I’ve noticed at the age of 35 that my anger

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

has grown exponentially, and it’s not just me. Are we all becoming constantly angry?

Why? I think I have the answer.

Look at the world around us. We have completely isolated ourselves through social media; so much so that real emotions are relegated to smiley faced emoji’s. Think about it. We can pay pretty close attention to everyone else’s lives, without having to look so much at our own. Thanks to social media, the things I used to do as a kid would not fly anymore. Here’s one example: Living in San Diego meant I had one great advantage: I was only a few minutes drive into a whole new country. Tijuana isn’t just a city, it’s an adventure. And in 1999 when I returned from living in Israel, I quickly became enamored. I was 19 years old, and though I couldn’t legally drink alcohol in the U.S., I could in Mexico. So it didn’t take a genius to realize that I would be traveling to good old Mexico many a time to wet the alcoholic appetite with my friends. Before

cell phones with cameras and Facebook check-ins there was no evidence of what would occur on these weekly excursions, just empty space where we could act as silly as we wanted without repercussion.

No future employer would ever know that I almost got arrested for public urination outside Señor Frog’s on a Wednesday night.

The incident lives only in the memories of my friends and the poor police official we had to give a $20 bill to in order to be on our way. (For the record, I do NOT condone urination on public walls. I say if you have to go, go where you’re supposed to go.)

Today, everyone checks-in with pictures and locations and what have you. Living the moment has forever been changed.

Case in point are concerts. I dare you to go to a concert and look out into the sea of cell phone video coverage. My first concert was in 1993 and it was Aerosmith. Heaven forbid, I didn’t have an iPhone to record Steve Tyler pound out the notes of “Livin’ on the Edge.” But when I close my eyes I remember that concert vividly.

We’re a world that’s in the fast lane. We want it fast, we want it now and when we get it we want to share it with the world. I say we stop and slow down sometimes. I don’t need to share the fact that I’m feeling anxious because I haven’t had my morning coffee. I’m pretty dang sure that my 201 Facebook friends truly don’t care.

SALOMON MAYA IS A LOCAL ACTOR AND PLAYWRIGHT. FOLLOW HIM ON TWITTER @SALOMAYA.

SPIRITUAL l BY YIGAL ADATO

what

“...a leader must first take control of their own lives before they can be successful in an organization.”

jew mean The 3 Real Reasons Leaders Fail

3

I

n article after article, people talk about why leaders fail. The list usually includes things like lack of detail, teamwork issues and power struggles, but the truth is that there are far deeper reasons why some leaders fail ... and it doesn’t have anything to do with business. After owning a successful business myself and talking to other business leaders, I have found that many of these issues start even before they get to work. (As you read these, if one sticks out, please know it is the first thing you should work on.)

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Relationships - Before leaders check their email or return phone calls, they wake up next to their partner. If that main relationship isn›t solid and full of passion, then the leader goes to work doubting herself and having self-confidence issues. This doubt can linger in the back of her mind; all day, every day. Am I good enough? Will this marriage/relationship last? Did I make the right choice? Where did our love go? These questions have the

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

potential to sabotage a leader’s decisions as well as creativity at work. Questions for a single leader could be: Why am I single? They might also feel doubtful in their relationships with parents, siblings or friends. These connections are what make us who we are and if a leader isn’t authentic with those around them, then their mind isn’t clear enough to create success.

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Health - A leader is looked up to and therefore has a responsibility to those who follow her. But how can a leader be mentally clear and have the energy it takes to do what is necessary if she isn’t healthy? Health is crucial. From the moment you put your skirt on, to what you have for lunch, we all want to be healthy and if we do not work at it, we run the risk of fogging our minds as well as our movements. Your organization depends on you and your health depends on your daily choices. Start by taking a walk and eating a healthy meal for lunch. I promise it will create a huge shift in your leadership abilities.

Goals - Throughout our lives, we envision the achieving of goals and that list of goals grows over time.

But if a leader only dedicates herself to work and leaves out the personal goals, then there is a loss of identity and the leader becomes who they are instead of what they do. Imagine living life without achieving a personal goal: running a marathon, skydiving, taking a trip to Paris, or even donating some time to the local soup kitchen. Leaders are busy; I get that, but they must make time to write down their goals and give themselves the opportunity to achieve them. There is always a sense of accomplishment when you achieve a goal, but there is a heightened sense of accomplishment when those goals are personal.

There are so many laws of leadership and countless ways leaders can manage their teams better, but the truth is that a leader must first take control of her own life before she can be successful in an organization.

Giving these three areas importance will cause a transformation in your leadership abilities that will surpass reading any book or taking any course. Working on YOU is what leadership is about. Others will look up to and respect you for it.

CONNECT WITH YIGAL ON TWITTER @YIGALADATO.

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TORAH l BY RABBI DANIEL BORTZ

of the

book

“... Judaism teaches that we can learn from all that we see, including America’s most popular sport.”

Football Truths

T

he NFL Football season is now well under way; 64% of Americans say they watch NFL football, and the revenue from Fantasy Football is more than $50 billion. I am certainly not impervious to all of this. As a freshman in high school and the quarterback for my team, I used to wrap my Tefillin one morning a week and pray on game day for some Divine intervention.

And years in Yeshiva weren’t able to erase my football fervor.

Like everything else in life, Judaism teaches that we can learn from all that we see, including America’s most popular sport.

In “Sports Illustrated,” there was once an op-ed about quarterback Jake Plummer.

In 2007, at 32 years of age and perfectly healthy, the All-Pro Plummer was on track to make $5 million for the coming season.

And then he retired. Just like that.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

Why did he leave the average American male’s dream? Plummer said he wanted to spend more time with family and enjoy life.

That decision caught my attention, but what really inspired me was what Plummer had to say at the funeral of his good friend, Pat Tillman. A fascinating sports figure, Tillman also left football at the prime of his career, but for a different reason. Tillman left to serve his country, enlisting in a combat unit. Soon he was off to Afghanistan, and was tragically killed in 2004. At his funeral, Plummer had this to say: “I was in the store the other day, and I saw “PEOPLE Magazine,” and it had the cover of the 50 most beautiful people in the world, or in America, and there was a picture of Pat. It was kind of ironic because I really looked and said, ‘What is beauty? Is beauty a pretty face, a nice smile, flowing hair, nice skin?’

“Not to me, it’s not. To me beauty is living life to higher standards, stronger morals and ethics and believing in them, whether people tell you you’re right or wrong.

Beauty is not wasting a day. Beauty is noticing life’s little intricacies and taking time out of your busy day to really enjoy those little intricacies.

“Beauty is being real, being genuine, being pure with no façade. What you see is what you get. Beauty is expanding your mind, always seeking knowledge, not being content, always going after something and challenging yourself.”

If these two sports stars, worshiped by millions of adoring fans, were able to realize what’s truly valuable in life, how much more so should we take to heart what real beauty is; not a transient beauty that wrinkles and fades, but beauty that lasts forever. When one dies, his muscles and wealth do not accompany him, but the good deeds performed, Torah wisdom attained and character traits refined leave a mark on the world and stay with us.

“Beauty is living life to higher standards, not wasting a day, noticing life’s intricacies, expanding your mind, not being content.”

As Hillel the Elder said over 2,000 years ago: “If I am not for myself, who is for me? And if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”

RABBI DANIEL BORTZ IS THE DIRECTOR OF JTEEN SAN DIEGO, JTEENSD.COM. FOR INFORMATION ON CLASSES, CONTACT HIM AT DANIELBORTZ@GMAIL.COM.

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Tamara Hurwitz Pullman in La Jolla Playhouse’s ithout Walls production of “Healing Wars,” conceived, choreographed and directed by Liz Lerman, runs through October 25 in the Mandell Weiss Forum.

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PHOTO BY T. WOOD

L’CHAIM l BY ALANNA MAYA

L’CHAIM

A THOUSAND

WORDS

“HEALING WARS” AT LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE’S WITHOUT WALLS FESTIVAL

L

a Jolla Playhouse will present the second Without Walls (WoW) Festival this month, October 9–11. The playhouse is known nationally for its commitment to the development of new work and new theatrical forms, including challenging the traditional definition of performance. The inaugural WoW Festival in 2013 was acclaimed for its one-of-a-kind performance pieces, and the return of the festival this year is no different.

“Across the theatre landscape, the relationship between the audience and the art is changing, and immersive theatre is taking place out in the world, playing with boundaries and experimenting with form,” Playhouse Artistic Director Christopher Ashley said in a press release. “The audience is right in the middle of the action, creating a singular event that truly engages and surprises. The Playhouse continues to stand at the leading edge of this burgeoning trend with our Without Walls program.”

WoW Festival events will occur simultaneously in and around the UC San Diego/La Jolla Playhouse Theatre District, and festival organizers have designed the performance schedule such that festival attendees can see multiple performances in one trip to the area. A festival village complete with food trucks, a beer garden and musical performances will serve as the hub for attendees who wish to see multiple shows over the festival weekend.

“When we first conceived of the WoW Festival in 2013, we thought of it as a biennial event, but there have been a couple of one-off projects within the WoW series, including

“El Henry” in 2014 and “The Grift” at the Lafayette Hotel earlier this year, but all of that has been kind of leading up to the followup to the first festival now,” Without Walls Associate Producer Marike Fitzgerald says.

“There are over 20 different projects [this year], and there are so many really exciting things in the festival that we are really excited about and a lot of amazing local partners that are presenting work, so we are really excited about the participation from the local arts community.”

The first WoW production to be part of the Playhouse’s subscription series, running additional dates September 29–October 25 is the West Coast Premiere of “Healing Wars.”

Conceived, directed and choreographed by choreographer, performer, MacArthur Fellow (and fellow MOT) Liz Lerman, “Healing Wars” blends dance, storytelling and multimedia in an exploration of how soldiers and healers cope with the physical and psychological wounds of war. Incorporating narratives from the American Civil War as well a remarkable performance from a young Navy veteran, this powerful piece asks how we as a nation recover from what seems like endless battles. Recently, Lerman spoke to L’Chaim Magazine about this exciting piece.

L’CHAIM MAGAZINE: HOW DID YOU COME TO THIS PROJECT, AND THE IDEA OF HEALERS DURING WARTIME? LIZ LERMAN: I got very interested in the

150th anniversary of the American Civil War and particularly, women in the American Civil War. [In my research] I found women

who cross-dressed to become soldiers, and of course I found out about the nurses, which led me to a whole lot of considerations about medicine and wartime and why does it innovate during wartime and also what happens to the healers. I was at an amazing museum of Civil War medicine, which made me think about our current war, and that is how the piece became what it is today, which is a piece about healers and wartime and the Civil War. L’CHAIM: WHAT MAKES THIS PIECE A PERFECT FIT FOR THE WOW FESTIVAL, AND WHAT CAN AUDIENCE MEMBERS EXPECT FROM THE PERFORMANCE? L.L.: In this particular piece, the audience

comes through another door of the theatre— in each theatre that we have performed the piece, the entrance has been different—in this case, it is sort of an underground version of the theatre, and all of the characters are positioned sort of, as if they are on exhibit, with different objects around them telling their story, which is set in the Civil War. The audience can get very close to the actors, and it feels almost as if you are in somebody’s attic, and then you go out onto the stage where you hear the contemporary veteran, talking away, improvising with one of the characters in the play.

It is interesting for audiences in this case, because they will actually be on the stage, and get a sense of what it is like to be on stage. The second half of the piece then is performed in a more traditional style.

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L’CHAIM

Check it out

lajollaplayhouse.org/ wowfestival

L’CHAIM: HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE ASPECTS LIKE VIDEO AND DANCE INTO THIS PIECE? L.L.: This is a movement narrative piece and

I think it is interesting because there is more and more crossing between theater and dance, theatre and video and dance and video, and in this particular piece, the audience gets a lot of different ways to think about the stories, so I think that is really fun for audiences.

I have been working with video now for about a decade, and I think it really helps the audience to contextualize something; in other words to provide more understanding. In one case, we are using videos that our soldiers sent us of them actually dancing [in the field], so in some ways video shows an aspect of the story exactly as it is. The footage that you will see of Gettysburg is actually recorded at Gettysburg and its just mysterious and aweinspiring.

The dancing can be very explicit and sometimes audiences will know exactly what is going on, but other times the dancing is more abstract. An audience member at one performance described the movement as

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

being the soul of the characters; and if you think of it in that way, it’s not as strange, because in life, there is movement all around us.

L’CHAIM: WHAT HAS BEEN THE REACTION FROM MILITARY AUDIENCES THAT COME TO SEE THIS WORK? L.L.: The civil war plays an interesting role

for veterans and military members who come to see the piece because they feel this long tradition; and depending on how you want to think about it, the pain of return.

One of the things that was so interesting to me was finding out that people coming back from the Civil War had a hard time, much like it is hard for our current troops. So, the piece tells stories that a lot of contemporary military people know already, but it becomes contextualized because of the civil war and it sets it off a little bit, and in that regard it has been very interesting for them to see.

L’CHAIM: WHAT TYPE OF EXPERIENCE CAN AUDIENCES EXPECT FROM THE INTIMATE NATURE OF THE WORK?

LL: What we hear a lot from people is how different it feels to be so close to the performers and then to come and watch them; you have an entirely different relationship to what’s going on than if you didn’t just spend time up close and personal with them. Also, what we hear from people is that they can see the performers in 360 degrees, which really changes the way that you see them, because they are not just 2-dimensional; they are real. Not only does the audience feel closer to the performers, but they feel closer to the audience, and they feel like they are a part of something when they are going through the performance [the way that we have it set up].

Hopefully, people see the piece and it makes them feel something about the nature of war and the nature of healing over time.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON “HEALING WARS” OR OTHER PERFORMANCES IN THE WOW FESTIVAL, INCLUDING FAMILY DAY, VISIT LAJOLLAPLAYHOUSE.ORG/ WOWFESTIVAL.

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PHOTOS COURTESY FIDF

COVER STORY l BY DEBORAH VIETOR

COVER STORY

WOMAN IN FRONT RAMI DIAMOND: LONE SOLDIER IN THE IDF AND A TRUE GEM

One of the IDF’s most unique attributes is a vital role played by women in all spheres of the military, including combat units, the air force and intelligence.

American born Rami Diamond joined the IDF for a challenge, entering the Combat Field Intelligence Unit in Israel. Diamond studied for one year in Israel, then decided to become a soldier.

“I felt like I left my mind and my heart in Israel,” she said. “Because of my age, I am no longer required to serve, although it was never

a question. I came from a military background.

My father was in the United States Navy and I grew up with the principle that freedom isn’t free. You have to fight for it and what you believe in.”

The San Diego chapter of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces will honor Diamond and other women who have served in the IDF at the Fifth Annual Celebration Dinner and Concert, at 7 p.m. on November 21 at the Hilton Bayfront Hotel. For tickets and more information, email Nir Benzvi at sandiego@fidf.org.

The FIDF provides many worthwhile programs to soldiers in the IDF, with donations funding the cause. These programs are designed to broaden soldiers’ horizons, strengthening their Jewish, Zionist and Israeli identities.

Recently, Diamond spoke to L’Chaim Magazine about her passion for and experience in the IDF, as well as some of the programs the FIDF has in place to support soldiers. The following is Diamond’s story of her experience as a lone soldier in the IDF, as told to Deborah Vietor.

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COVER STORY

I

can’t remember any one thing that my parents specifically said or did to infuse within me such a strong love for Israel.

At the most, I can only recall a coffee table book of Israel landscapes in our living room.

In a way, my parents’ love for Israel was not something to be passed down as any sort of “education.” For them, loving Israel was a way of life, and it emanated in the way they raised my sister and me. I can’t recall a single conversation about Israel. Israel was not bound by our words or by our thoughts, or even our feelings. Israel lived in our actions and in our character. My parents raised us to be fearless, to take risks, to speak our minds, to love nature, to respect others, to be confident, and most importantly to love ourselves. And in that manner, I was raised to be Israeli. I was living Israel before I even knew what she was.

I recall at a certain point, the image of the Israeli soldier entering my awareness. This was a breed of Jew I had never encountered.

The concept of strong Jews, who could bear arms and fight their enemies, win battles, and defend our country and people, seemed like a dream. To me, they seemed like titans.

Slowly but surely, the Israeli Defense Forces became my hero. The [IDF stood for] the archetypical Jew, that didn’t cower in the face of his enemy. The Israeli to me was not just a symbol of strength and freedom, but also that of hope and the fulfillment of the basic human right to exist. I wanted to be a part of that.

In the summer of 2007, I travelled to Israel for the first time with Taglit Birthright.

It was an experience I will never forget.

My love for Israel finally manifested in a physical connection, and my hypothetical understanding of Israel became concrete with the experience of living it. In 20082009, I studied at a seminary in Jerusalem called “Emunah V’Omanut.” This was my first extended period of time living in Israel.

The entire year, I tried imagining myself living in Israel but something just seemed missing. It was only on my last day of the program that I asked my friend to tell me

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

Female soldiers hold numerous positions within the IDF, a number of which are combat roles.

why I should move to Israel.

“It’s not about you and what you need from Israel,” she told me, “It’s about what Israel needs from you.” With that thought lingering in my mind, I returned to America to study at Hunter College in the fall of 2009. It was only then, only after returning to America, that I suddenly felt foreign. America is and will always be my home as an American. But as a Jew first and foremost, I couldn’t ignore the fact that I felt most at home in Israel. Suddenly the culture in America seemed so vain; the people so very different. I felt they couldn’t understand me.

Life in Israel is so precious. It can be over in an instant. When war is fought at home, you never know which bus ride might be your last. Don’t get me wrong; Israel is not some terrifying battlefield. But there is something said and learned when there isn’t an ocean to separate you and your enemies. Returning back to America felt like an entirely different reality. A reality of superficiality; of “ignorance is bliss,” of Coca-Cola and Nike and BMW, of billboards

telling me why my life is unfulfilled. I love America and I would risk my life for her. But the time had come for me to go home. Not just my home, but the home of my people. The home of our dreams. The home in whose direction we have prayed for thousands of years. A dream never forgotten. A dream finally come true. And I was ready to live that dream.

My two years at Hunter College started as an academic pursuit, but quickly turned into a raging battle against ignorance and anti-Semitism. The more I delved into the world of advocacy and activism, the more I felt the walls of baseless hatred bearing down on me. The culture gap crept wider and wider. I wanted to feel comfortable in my own home. And I knew I would only find that in Israel. My whole life had been building up to this moment.

At the age of 23, I was not required to draft.

But for me, serving in the IDF was not only a dream, it was an ideology. I recognized that Israel’s mandatory draft is not in vain.

That she has an enemy. That young boys and girls go off to defend the independence

COVER STORY

5th Annual Gala Appreciation Evening and Concert Honoring the Women of the IDF

The 5th Annual FIDF Appreciation Dinner and Gala will honor the women of the IDF with special guests Ettie Tevel and Yuval Dayan. Tevel, a conductor, arranger and accordion soloist is a former IDF soldier who received special permission from the IDF to serve as an outstanding musician. She is currently one of the top conductors in Israel. Dayan is the 2014 Israeli Singer of the Year, currently serving in the IDF as part of the Education Corps’ Music Ensemble.

Co-Chairs for the event are Alexandra and Ari Hirschhorn and Stacey and Alan Katz. Tickets for the evening, which include a cocktail reception, dinner and concert, are $200 per person. Tickets can be purchased online at http://fidf.info/fidfsd.org/sd1/. For more information, call (858) 9263210 or email sandiego@fidf.org.

About FIDF: Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces was formed in 1981 by survivors of the Holocaust under the leadership of John Klein, who did not want such a tragedy to happen again. Originally created to support lone soldiers, there are 15 regional offices throughout the United States and Panama today. Funded by donations and managed by a national and local board, FIDF is a non-profit 501(c)(3) with more than 120,000 loyal supporters providing a variety of services and events to support all IDF soldiers and their families.

and freedom of their people and history and sometimes never come home. I didn’t see myself as any different. I didn’t see my foreign background as an excuse to not give back to the country that gave me so much and represented something much deeper than mere borders. So I joined a program for “lone soldiers” (soldiers without parents living in Israel) called Garin Tzabar and moved to Kibbutz Tirat Tzvi. And on March 7, 2013, I fulfilled my lifelong dream and drafted into the Israel Defense Forces. That was the day I became a titan.

Our swearing-in ceremony was held one month later. And on April 17, 2013, on the eve of becoming an official soldier of Israel, I posted the following piece on Facebook (to share with my friends and family the passion and surrealism of living a dream): “Tomorrow I will be sworn in to the Israeli Defense Forces. I have been waiting for this moment my whole life. Tomorrow, I will be joining the ranks of my heroes, both modern and ancient. Tomorrow, as I hold my Bible across my gun and swear to protect my homeland and its citizens, I will officially become a warrior of Israel. Just like David and the Macabees, like Devorah and Eta Wrobel, like Bar Kochba and Mordechai Anilewicz—I too will be giving myself over for the strength of my country. As I stand tomorrow, in the uniform I dreamed to one day deserve to wear, I will be thinking of you all … of our past and our future, and of the promise of our present.”

I drafted into the all female, Special Forces combat unit of “Combat Reconnaissance.” It is an incredibly difficult job. We specialize in camouflaged ambushes and on-ground intelligence gathering in the southern sector of Israel. I served there for two years—the maximum amount of time I was granted to serve. I served as sharp shooter, Operation Point engineer, and was in charge of the physical fitness of my squad.

I graduated with the Excellency Award from sniper school and came within less than 1 mm of breaking the sniper school record. And in 2014, I helped lead my unit to third place in the Krav Maga event at WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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COVER STORY

the IDF Championships. But beyond my achievements within the framework of the army, my greatest pride came from merely existing. To live my life and know that every minute was dedicated to the protection of my country. To know that every freezing, sleepless night we spent out on the Egyptian border, someone else was sleeping soundly in their warm bed because we were out there making it possible. I have yet to experience a greater sense of importance.

On March 5, 2015 I was officially released from the IDF. On that day, I left behind not only my gear and uniform. On that day, I left behind a dream. It is hard to describe the feeling, and I am still searching for the words. But I feel like part of me was buried that day. A dream laid to rest in the eternal quiet of the past. But not in vain. No. Rather, in the hopes that something will spring forth from its resting place. A sapling of a new future and new dreams, for that is what life is all about. That is the point of it all: to toil the earth of time and plant our seeds where we can make a difference. In the hopes that something can come from it … that something will grow and lead to more. To make the world more beautiful and whole. We are that tree of life. And we must continue to grow and to dream. To 20

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

never forget the dream. And to never for an instant believe that it’s impossible.

I knew a lot of lone soldiers who, like me, left their lives behind to pursue their dream of serving in the IDF. I noticed an unfortunate trend of young Americans who came with certain expectations of how their experience in the IDF would be. And these expectations were entirely unrealistic because they were building an expectation based on an American template of what an “army” should look like and how it should operate. I see this trend not just amongst American lone soldiers, but also amongst the community of new Olim that come from America. Many come to Israel expecting it to be a little America and enter a whole new chapter of their lives with baseless (or misguided) expectations. And it is because of this unfortunate outlook that many new immigrants can’t “make it” in Israel, get frustrated, can’t adapt, and choose at some point to return to America. It is not their lack of will, but their expectations that kill their future.

I met a lot of lone soldiers that fit this category and I just felt sorry for them. I felt sorry that they failed to see the beautiful, unusual, foreign experience that it is to serve in the IDF.

If I could do things differently, I would go back and blowtorch whatever small remnant of ego I may have carried with me. I aspire to live life with as little ego as possible. But it is challenging to erase it completely. Looking back, I called people out for acting out of ego. But at the end of the day, my desire to prove them “wrong” in their actions was in itself an ambition of ego. I wanted to be “right.” And when we choose the path of “right” vs. “wrong,” we close off opportunity for true connection.

And I believe that more opportunities can come your way through connection than through barriers.

To women [or anyone] thinking about joining the IDF, I would say, don’t let anyone else define what is possible for you. And don’t let anyone else define for you what is “practical” or “realistic.” Dream big. And if anything, you will inspire those around you. There are countless positions for women in the army, a number of which are combat. It is always important to remember that every job is important at the end of the day. But I would advise using the army as an excellent opportunity to push your boundaries and strive beyond your comfort zone.

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Edith Sykora (left), a Hungarian-born Auschwitz survivor, made aliyah nine years ago with her now-deceased husband Joel (right).

WHEN HOMELAND BECOMES HOME

ISRAEL THROUGH THE EYES OF SENIOR IMMIGRANTS

L

ike other Jews his age, Gerry Wine remembers the day Israel was born— May 14, 1948—and the United Nations vote the previous November that opened the door to a Jewish state. He was 8 years old.

“These were magical moments for all of us, very, very exciting times,” Wine says.

“Even us kids were celebrating.”

Growing up, Wine recalls wearing blue and white to religious school to honor the nascent state, dropping coins for tzedakah into the blue tin box in the kitchen. But he didn’t truly begin to appreciate the miracle of Israel until he was married and a young 22

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

father, and a non-Jewish friend told him after the Six-Day War in 1967, “You guys really know how to whup ’em.”

“That offhand comment of his planted a seed, a sense of pride in our people and the amazing things we were doing there,” says Wine.

Even so, Wine never dreamed that the infant nation his family was cheering back in 1948 would become his home more than six decades later.

The official reason Wine and his wife Sandy made aliyah in 2012 from Sharon, Mass., was the son and his family already living in Modi’in, midway between

Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

“They certainly were the big green light,” says Wine, 74. “But what I did not expect was to fall in love with Israel. If you’d told me 10 years ago I would be living here and loving it, I would have thought you were crazy. Now all I want to know is why doesn’t everyone live here?”

Like the Wines, many seniors who now live in Israel can recall the moment the U.N. passed the resolution to partition the land in 1947, allowing for the formation of the State of Israel and David Ben-Gurion’s declaration the following May. As a 19-year-old living in Hartford,

PHOTO COURTESY EDITH SYKORA

SENIORS l BY DEBORAH FINEBLUM SCHABB l jns.org

SENIORS

PHOTO BY AMOS BEN GERSHOM/GPO/FLASH90.

“… we knew Israel would be a place where Jews could be safe.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (right) visits senior citizens living at a retirement home in Jerusalem on April 17, 2012.

Conn., Hannah Libman recalls sweating each U.N. vote.

“I sat near the radio and counted them as they came in,” she says. “I can still feel it, it was so huge, the joy of it, but also the fear that we would not get the votes we needed.”

Understanding that the Holocaust preceded Israel’s establishment, Libman valued the moment all the more. She was born in Germany in 1936, and her family escaped before Hitler’s net closed on the rest of her relatives.

“We didn’t know the details until later, but we knew what was happening over there was terrible, that my grandparents were missing and my father’s Polish family was also missing,” Libman says. “To us, we knew Israel would be a place where Jews could be safe.”

Like the Wines, Libman and her husband Alfred were pulled to Israel by family—a daughter, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren. With Hannah now 86 and Alfred nearly 90, the Libmans arrived last summer from West Hartford, Conn., and are now living in Jerusalem senior housing.

“We’d been living near our son in New York and visiting [Israel] a couple times a year,” says Hannah. “But one day we woke up and chose Israel. Now we say every

day, ‘Isn’t this wonderful?’ We’re on this lovely vacation with a new life and new friends—and our grands and great-grands are determined not to let us get bored.”

Chaya (Claire) Subar, formerly of Rochester, N.Y., has since 2007 also counted herself a resident of Jerusalem, along with her husband David. Having narrowly escaped death at the hands of the Nazis and spent the war years being cared for by Polish farmers, Subar reunited with her mother by 1948 and was living in a community of Holocaust survivors in Stuttgart, Germany.

“I remember seeing a picture of a short guy with bushy eyebrows and bushy hair,” says Subar, who is now in her mid-70s. “And I knew that he had something to do with a new country for Jewish people. Everyone we knew was so happy.”

Indeed, Holocaust survivors had a deep appreciation for the newly established Jewish state.

“I know how happy I was,” says Hungarian-born Edith Sykora, 85, who survived Auschwitz and spent nearly a half-century in the U.S. before making aliyah nine years ago to Ra’anana with her now-deceased husband Joel.

“It really is wonderful being here with my children and grandchildren,” she says.

“It’s fantastic what they did here in not even 70 years.”

As a girl growing up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Eva Rabotnicoff Dimensteinas also understood that somewhere far away, there was now “a place where Jewish people could be safe.” Now 73 and, as of last July, an Israeli citizen with her husband Leon (they live in Ma’ale Adumim), she feels the blessing all the more keenly.

“We love it here,” she says. “This country is a very good place for our grandchildren to grow up.”

Former New Jersey residents Carl and Anita Jacobs, who left for Jerusalem four years ago, are both the same age as the State of Israel—67.

“Everywhere we go there are these neon signs that say ‘67’ and… I know we’re 67, but now they are constantly reminding us,” Anita says with a laugh.

In perhaps the ultimate introduction to the Jewish state, Anita had the chance to spend time with former prime minister Golda Meir, who stayed at the family’s New Jersey home during a fundraising tour in the 1950s.

“She was very much like my bubbe, very gentle—and taller than you’d think,” says WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

23

SENIORS

“When I see my grandchildren serving in the IDF, I am filled with pride.”

Anita.

Even as a child, Anita came to understand the importance of Israel.

“I knew even then that this land is my heritage, and I really wanted to be a part of it,” she says.

As a teenager, Jacobs would help finance her very first trip to Israel in 1965 with her babysitting earnings. Years later, she would become the New York area director of the Jewish National Fund, traveling regularly to Israel for both business and pleasure.

Though “jobs and kids and elderly parents” would keep Anita and Carl in the U.S. for many years, they are now (mostly) retired and free to live their Israel dream, which includes regular army base volunteer stints through the IDF’s Sar-El program.

Since moving to Israel and seeing the Jewish state from inside, these seniors have developed their own takes on the situation here. The first reaction for most is an ineffable sense of pride.

“Intelligence and ingenuity, these are our people’s gift to the world,” says Sandy Wine.

“And Israel is where it’s headquartered.

Just read ‘Start-Up Nation’ if you’re not convinced.”

24

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

For many, that pride is personified in their grandchildren’s accomplishments.

“When I see my grandchildren serving in the IDF, I am filled with pride,” says New York native Barbara Greenberg, 70, who has lived in Ra’anana for 16 years near her kids and grandkids.

Much of the satisfaction of living in Israel is, for Sandy Wine, seeing her grandchildren growing up in the Jewish homeland.

“Their friends are more like close cousins,” she says. “There are no play dates you have to drive to, since the kids walk, bike, and bus happily to friends. It’s strange that the world sees this place as less safe when the kids have so much more freedom here. They’re empowered, this is their country, their home, and they feel that.”

“Living here at our age is the frosting on the cake of our lives,” says Hannah Libman, who was scurrying around her apartment preparing lunch for four granddaughters.

“We had a wonderful life in America, but now I feel like I came home.”

As to what the future holds for their adopted homeland, most of the seniors JNS. org spoke with are cautiously optimistic.

Carl Jacobs is concerned by the recent surge

in anti-Semitic attacks around the world and the ongoing negative media coverage of Israel.

“Plus so many Jewish kids in America are not prepared to refute it,” he says. “They just don’t know the real story of the Jewish people and the importance of Israel.”

Sixteen years into her life in Israel, Barbara Greenberg describes herself as “optimistic, because our greatest strength is our people, the mix of people from all over, and for the most part, everyone gets along.

We understand the importance of having a Jewish state, especially since our homeland has become our home too.”

“Warts and all, Israel is the best news the Jewish people have had in a long time,” says Subar, who survived the Nazis. “Where else and when else in history have we had our own army to protect us?”

Sykora, her fellow Holocaust survivor, agrees.

“I’m sure there are certain things [about Israel] that are not for the best, too much politics,” she says with a sigh. “But still, it’s fantastic.”

PHOTO BY AMOS BEN GERSHOM/GPO/FLASH90.

In April 2012, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits senior citizens living at a retirement home in Jerusalem, showing them a picture of David Ben-Gurion’s announcement of Israeli independence at Tel Aviv’s Independence Hall on May 14, 1948.

Extreme Makeover Be’er Sheva River Park: Garbage Dump To Eco-Wonder

The city of Be’er Sheva, whose population in the greater municipal area is close to half a million, is fast overcoming an image problem.

The city had been long regarded by Israelis as a sleepy, run-down development town; a dusty pit stop on the way to Eilat.

That is no longer the case. In the past few years the city has experienced a makeover that almost defies belief. Museums, theaters, high-rise upscale apartment buildings, high tech parks, giant malls, and new parks and restaurants have appeared around the city. The former dilapidated town is gradually undergoing an aesthetic gentrification and the city’s outer suburbs are nestled on green hills dotted by cool water fountains.

Nothing demonstrates this transformation as dramatically as the Be’er Sheva River Park. As if by magic, the park was created in an area described once as the “armpit” of the city, in what was a dry riverbed near the southern entrance of the city piled with wrecked cars, garbage and sewage. It took months of cleanup with trucks going in and out to dispose of the rotting trash that had accumulated over decades.

The garbage is now gone and in its place is a picturesque eight-kilometer long park with lush green lawns, colorful trees, impressive landscaping, bicycle paths and a promenade. Besides the expansive green at the park entrance, it’s the many species of birds egrets, plovers, curlews that cheerily announce to visitors that here is an oasis in the Negev Desert. Nearby are archeological and historical sites. Also planned is an artificial lake with recycled

water, a sports center and a botanical garden. When completed, the park, a joint project of Jewish National Fund, the Israeli government and a number of private sponsors will, double the size of New York City’s Central Park.

The park’s “piece-de-resistance” is the newly inaugurated Irving and Danielle Grossman Amphitheatre, a state-of-the-art 12,000seat open-air theatre - the newest and largest of its kind in Israel.

The Grossmans were strong supporters of the performing arts and of Israel. It would have given them great pleasure to see this magnificent facility.

At the official naming ceremony, Mayor Ruvik Danilovich referred to the role of the Jewish National Fund in its support of the Be’er Sheva River Park. Danilovich remarked, “It sounds almost surreal that an organization based thousands of miles away managed to persuade the Israeli government to get involved in a project. They saw the opportunity and the vision, and only then did the government get involved.”

The park is still a work in progress, with much to be done to complete the rehabilitation of the area. As Mayor Danilovich said at the inauguration of the amphitheatre: “Who would have imagined this day, this beautiful park emerging from this neglected dump?

People are finally realizing that Be’er Sheva is an attractive metropolis in terms of culture, education, tourism and jobs. This is really the future.” - By Diann Strub

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SENIORS

LIFESTYLE 360 AT REMINGTON CLUB

A

A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER, MORE WELL-ROUNDED LIFESTYLE FOR OUR RESIDENTS

t The Remington Club, our Lifestyle 360 program is an entirely new approach to our activities that will offer the opportunity to bring the Five Dimensions of Wellness into perfect harmony for a more balanced, fulfilling life. The program focuses on the intellectual, social, physical, spiritual and emotional dimensions of wellness, and is the basis for the activities that we offer to our residents.

THE INTELLECTUAL DIMENSION

The intellectual dimension of wellness encourages creative, stimulating mental activities to bring richness to your life and those around you. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby like photography or keeping up with the favorites like bird watching, all programs are designed to promote a better and healthier lifestyle.

THE SOCIAL DIMENSION

The social dimension of wellness encourages positive interactions with others to increase awareness of one’s impact on the community and the natural environment. We recognize the importance for leisure and recreation, and support participation in activities like martini mixers and Earth Day celebrations that strengthen one’s social 26

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

network and support system.

THE PHYSICAL DIMENSION

The physical dimension of wellness encourages regular physical activity to maintain a healthy body and to improve mood and self-esteem. Participating in programs such as Tai Chi and aquatic therapy assists in promoting physical and psychological health.

THE SPIRITUAL DIMENSION

The spiritual dimension of wellness involves seeking meaning and purpose by developing a deep appreciation for the depth of life and the natural forces that exist in the universe. Community resources like pet therapy and inspirational readings allow a sense of purpose and promote greater happiness.

THE EMOTIONAL DIMENSION

The emotional dimension of wellness emphasizes an awareness and acceptance of one’s feelings, and encourages a positive outlook. Uplifting experiences such as poetry workshops and support groups enhance one’s overall well-being.

This new programing has enhanced our activities at all levels, and our residents are enjoying life at The Remington Club more than ever. If you would like to learn

more about Lifestyle 360 and life at The Remington Club, please call us at (858) 673-6340.

The Remington Club is a full-service senior living community located in the exclusive community of Rancho Bernardo.

Offering the finest in independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing services, as well as respite/short stays and outpatient therapy, our beautifully landscaped grounds include an outdoor pool and waterfall. Located within walking distance to shopping, restaurants and golf, there is always something fun to do at The Remington Club!

Designed to engage both active seniors and those needing more assistance, the Remington Club offers a well-stocked library, a full program of exciting and entertaining activities, health and fitness classes and regularly scheduled trips to area culture and sporting events.

Exceptional meals in our formal dining room or our more casual bistro and attentive service from our well-trained staff make the Remington Club a wonderful place to live.

THE REMINGTON CLUB IS LOCATED AT 16925 HIERBA DRIVE SAN DIEGO, CA 92128. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THEREMINGTONCLUB.COM.

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BADASS KOSHER l BY MICHAEL GARDINER

Argentina: Eichmann, Empanadas and a lot of Jews

EMPANADAS OF MINCED BEEF, OLIVES AND CAPERS WITH CHIMICHURRI

I

t happened shortly after 8 p.m. on the evening of Wednesday, May 11, 1960, just off Garibaldi Street in the Bancalari district of Buenos Aires. Ricardo Klement–a non-descript, balding man–stepped off a bus and walked toward his home. As he passed a seemingly disabled Buick, Klement heard a man say “just a minute” and turned to see the man leaping at him. As the two struggled 28

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

they toppled down a ditch before Klement– A.K.A. Adolf Eichmann, the engineer of the Holocaust–was subdued. The next stop for him was a trial in Jerusalem and, thereafter, a June 1, 1962, date with the gallows.

There is, no doubt, an irony that it was to Argentina that Eichmann chose to flee.

By the time he was captured there were more than 275,000 (some say more than

300,000) Jews living in Argentina out of a total population of twenty million. It was the home of the largest Jewish population in Latin America, at the time the seventh in the world.

While Jewish immigration to Argentina began as early as the Sephardic expulsion from Iberia, it was not until Argentina gained its independence from Spain in

BADASS KOSHER 1816 that Jewish immigration from Europe picked up pace. Russian Jews escaping pogroms arrived in 1889 and became gauchos (Argentine cowboys), establishing a colony called “Moiseville” on the Pampas.

In the early years of the 20th century there was a steady wave of European Jewish immigration to the country leading to a population of over 200,000 Jews by 1920.

While another wave of immigration occurred after World War II, the rise of Juan Perón–and particularly the chaos unleashed in the wake of his fall–started a wave of Jewish migration away from Argentina.

Today there are approximately 250,000 Jews in Argentina–down from a high over over 300,000. It is currently the sixth largest Jewish community in the world. The overwhelming majority of Argentine Jews are in Buenos Aires, though there are also Jewish communities in Rosario, Córdoba and Santa Fe. Buenos Aires has a highly active Jewish culture with synagogues, schools, kosher restaurants and the sorts of Jewish institutions one would expect to find in hubs of Judaism like New York or London.

It even has the only kosher McDonalds outside of Israel.

While Argentina’s foods are as varied as its peoples, there are two things that come to mind immediately about Argentine cuisine: Pampas beef and empanadas. The later are Argentina’s take on the classic notion of serving a protein wrapped in dough for easy transport. Indeed the word “empanada” is derived from the Spanish verb “empanar” meaning “to wrap in bread.” Argentina’s classic empanada–the best seller on Buenos Aires streets–uses their famous beef in ground form often accompanied by funky ingredients such as olives and capers and even, sometimes, raisins.

And that was the model for this dish. I, however, prefer the feel of hand-minced beef to that of ground. It gives the dish more of a meaty texture. And pairing it with Argentine beef’s classic accompaniment– chimichurri–was a natural. While Argentine chimichurri is chopped, not puréed, I went with the later approach so that the sauce clung more effectively to the empanada. The resulting dish, while not exactly a classic Argentine empanada–kosher, slightly modernized and all–is not entirely unlike that which Eichmann might have gotten had he stopped for some street food before getting on that bus that momentous day.

Empanadas of Minced Beef, Olives and Capers with Chimichurri

Makes approximately 24 empanadas

NOTE: For a kosher version of this recipe replace milk with a liquid of your choice and substitute margarine for butter.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Dough: 3 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 stick of cold unsalted solid margarine 2 large room temperature eggs ½ cup milk 1 tablespoon of distilled white vinegar 1 egg, gently beaten with a fork (for the egg wash)

FOR THE FILLING:

½ pound top sirloin beef, minced by hand (ground beef will do in a pinch) 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground anise 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley ½ large red onion, finely chopped 1 tablespoon of capers, finely chopped 10 green olives with (or without) pimento stuffing 2 hard boiled eggs, diced Olive oil 1 cup San Marzano-style canned tomatoes, chopped Kosher salt and freshly pepper, to taste

FOR THE CHIMICHURRI SAUCE:

1 cup firmly packed fresh flat-leaf parsley, stems trimmed 3-4 (depending on heat) jalapeño chile peppers, stemmed, seeded and chopped 3 garlic cloves ¼ cup red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 1. Make and rest the dough. Sift the flour along with the salt and baking powder into a large bowl. Work the butter into the dough using a food processor fitted with the metal blade until the mixture is the texture of

coarse meal and has only a few remaining small lumps of butter. Add the 2 eggs, milk, and vinegar and run the processor until the mixture becomes a well-combined dough.

Flour your hands and shape the dough into a ball, placing it on a lightly floured surface.

Knead the ball gently a few times then wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for an hour.

2. Prepare the filling. Meanwhile, add two tablespoons of olive oil to a sauté pan over high heat. When the oil is hot brown the beef in the pan on all sides. Transfer to a work bowl. Add another tablespoon of oil and, when hot, add the onion and cook until it softens but does not brown, about five minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook down for about two minutes. Stir in the spices, capers, olives and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Reduce the heat to low, return the meat to the pan, stir in the egg and heat just until warm. Remove the filling from the heat, transfer to a work bowl and refrigerate until cool, about 15 minutes.

3. Make the Chimichurri sauce. Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, add all of the ingredients except the oil to the work bowl of a Vitamix, other high speed blender or food processor. Process the ingredients on low speed to combine them, then turn the speed to high. Drizzle in the oil until fully incorporated. Check the seasoning and adjust to taste.

4. Make the empanadas. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and separate it into golf ball-sized spheres. Take a gallon zipock-style freezer bag, cut the top off and open each of the sides. Place the bag in a tortilla press, the open side out, and place a dough ball in the middle of the bag.

Press the ball into a flat disk. Add one to two tablespoons of filling in the center (the exact amount depends on the dough’s size) and fold the circle into a half moon. Pinch and fold the edges to seal them (crimping with a fork if you like) and place the formed empanada onto a prepared baking sheet.

Continue to do this with the remaining dough and filling. Brush all the empanadas with egg wash. Bake the empanadas until golden brown, approximately 25 minutes.

5. Plate the dish. Arrange two empanadas, leaning up against each other on one side of the plate. Swipe a pool of the sauce across the bottom of the plate.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

29

FEATURE STORY l BY SHARON RAPOPORT

KING

UNDER PRESSURE

MATISYAHU

30

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

FEATURE STORY

T

he news rattled Jews across the world. Even those who last heard the name Matisihayu on a Chanukah story, and never of the reggae singer, were appalled. What did it mean that in the 21st century, a Jewish artist was being coerced to state a political view, or else? How could a refusal to do so be used as an excuse to cancel a performance?

Granted, this incident had not been, by far, the gravest manifestation anti-Semitic wave. Innocent blood has been shed. But it seemed especially irksome, in a last-straw kind of way that not even that human equalizer called “music” could be left intact.

UNDER PRESSURE

Matthew Paul Miller, aka, Matisyahu (his Hebrew name), is an American reggae rapper and alternative rock musician known for his original blend of Orthodox Jewish themes, reggae, rock and hip hop beatboxing sounds. In 2005 Matisyahu’s single “King Without a Crown” hit the Top 40 in the United States. Since 2004, he has released four studio albums, two live albums, two remix CDs and two DVDs featuring live concerts.

Last summer, Matisyahu was supposed to perform at the Rototom Sunsplash Reggae Festival held in Valencia, Spain.

“The festival organizers

contacted me because they were getting pressure from the BDS movement,” declared the singer on a Facebook statement. “They wanted me to write a letter, or make a video, stating my positions on Zionism and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to pacify the BDS people.”

What is the BDS? The BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement is a political movement with the goal of pressuring Israel to recognize a Palestinian state. And the singer would not budge to their requests. The particular incident mirrors that of the story of Chanukah, where the singer draws his name: “One day the henchmen of Antiochus arrived in the village of Modin where Mattityahu, the old priest, lived. The Syrian officer built an altar in the marketplace of the village and demanded that Mattityahu offer sacrifices to the Greek gods. Mattityahu replied, “I, my sons and my brothers are determined to remain loyal to the covenant which our G-d made with our ancestors!”1 In the world of social media, where every statement can be tweeted and retweeted a million times, the demand of a certain political statement can very well be regarded as the request for a sacrifice.

And though this writer is not in the business of

comparing revered historical Jewish figures to raggae singers, there is a common thread here, a continued theme of outward pressure and brave Jewish resistance that cannot be missed.

Due to Matisyahu’s refusal, on August 17, the festival´s organizers cancelled his scheduled August 22 appearance. About his stance Matisyahu later explained: “This was an excruciating decision, as I felt that my core, essential being was being used as a pawn for political convenience.

It is my deep conviction however that acceptance and the ability for rebirth allow us to move forward,” he declared on social media.

Regarding his views on mixing politics and music, he said: “… I support peace and compassion for all people. My music speaks for itself, and I do not insert politics into my music. Music has the power to transcend the intellect, ideas, and politics, and it can unite people in the process. The festival kept insisting that I clarify my personal views; which felt like clear pressure to agree with the BDS political agenda. Honestly it was appalling and offensive, that as the one publicly Jewish-American artist scheduled for the festival they were trying to coerce me into

ADL URGES SPANISH GOVERNMENT TO TAKE ACTION AGAINST ANTI-SEMITISM On August 17, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) condemned the Rototom Sunsplash Reggae Festival for cancelling the Matisyahu performance.

“Was a Jewish musician singled out, based on his religion, to undergo a political litmus test?” said Jonathan A. Greenblatt, ADL National Director.

“Was he then denied the opportunity to perform for reasons completely unrelated to his musical talents?

This appears to be a clear case of anti-Semitic discrimination—which is illegal in Spain—and we expect Spain to uphold its non-discrimination laws.”

Mr. Greenblatt added, “A local BDS group pushed for the boycott of Matisyahu, and the festival’s action provides another example of a clearly anti-Semitic result from the BDS Movement.”

“The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions Movement (BDS) aims to isolate and demonize Israel and deny the Jewish people their right to self-determination and a homeland,” reads the ADL press release.

Upon finding out about the incident, the ADL also wrote to Javier Moliner Gargallo, President of the County Council of Castellón, which had provided financial support to

the reggae festival, and requested that Mr. Moliner insist that the festival reverse its discriminatory decision or have its financial support revoked.

Many other Jewish and non-Jewish organizations also sent letters and expressed their dissatisfaction to the Spanish goverment and the festival’s organizers.

Last summer, ADL urged the Spanish government to take action on antiSemitic incitement emanating from various anti-Israel demonstrations.

The League’s recent poll in 100 countries found that 29 percent of those surveyed in Spain harbor antiSemitic attitudes.

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FEATURE STORY

political statements. Were any of the other artists scheduled to perform asked to make political statements in order to perform? No artist deserves to be put in such a situation simply to perform his or her art. Regardless of race, creed, country, cultural background, etc (sic), my goal is to play music for all people. As musicians that is what we seek.”

On August 19, following accusations of anti-Semitism and harsh criticism from Spain’s foreign ministry, Rototom Sunsplash invited Matisyahu back to the festival to appear at his originally scheduled time slot and publicly apologized.

On August 21, Matisyahu accepted the festival’s invitation and posted the following statement to his Facebook page: “Today music wins. Freedom of expression wins. The incredible outpouring of worldwide support from fans and organizations who rose up as one to protest the intrusion of politics into a borderless celebration of music has been humbling.

My deepest thanks to the worldwide community for rallying to the cause of 32

L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

musical freedom. Most of all, thank you to my incredible fans and to so many people of all faiths who refused to remain silent in the name of artistic freedom. This is your victory.”

LOOKING ON TO THE … PAST

But what Matisyahu would rather do now is take a look at the past—his musical past, that is.

Matisyahu’s long and prodigious career has included touring the world, releasing five studio albums and selling 3.5 million tracks to date. Now on the 10th anniversary of his breakthrough album, “Live at Stubb’s,” he is releasing a new album that celebrates the fan favorite original.

Matisyahu’s “Live at Stubb’s Vol. III” takes a new look at his extensive catalogue with stripped down and reworked versions of favorites such as “King Without a Crown.”

The fall/winter tour, which will also include stops in San Francisco, Denver and Baltimore, also includes a stop in San Diego at Balboa Theater on November 15.

During the course of the evening, Matisyahu and his band will present stripped-back arrangements highlighting the music that launched his career, while taking fans of all ages on a journey through the evolution of Live at Stubb’s to his most recent release, Akeda. This tour reconnects Matisyahu with musical collaborators from his early touring days, including Live at Stubb’s guitarist Aaron Dugan.

Audiences in San Diego and elsewhere are sure to rejoice. The king is here. And he will not budge.

REFERENCES:

1. The Story of Chanukah, Chabad.org at chabad.org/holidays/chanukah/article_ cdo/a id/102978/jew i sh/The -Stor y- ofChanukah.htm SHARON RAPOPORT IS A PROFESSIONAL WRITER AND WEB-CONTENT CREATOR LIVING IN SAN DIEGO. EMAIL HER AT SHARONBUX@GMAIL.COM.

BY STEPHANIE LEWIS l HUMOR

mazel &

mishagoss Confessions of a Jewish Anti-Halloween Mom

I

come from a long line of Harrowing Halloween Haters, so my disdain is justifiably genetic.

Two weeks in advance, my mother would buy the mandatory bag of Hershey’s fun size bars only to partake in a little too much fun. She would then need to replenish the bag before All Hallows’ Eve arrived.

Six different times. When we’d run out of candy by 7 p.m. on the night of the actual festivities, mom tacked a sign on our front door stating, “At store buying Snickers.”

And then another notice beneath it, “Please don’t egg our house … haven’t you heard of binge eating disorder?”

Now that I have children of my own, there’s always the same conversation regarding this holiday and it always goes off in a weird tangent.

Daughter: Can we decorate our house for October 31st?

Me: Sorry kids, we’re Purim People, remember? Besides Halloween was originally a Paganistic holiday and we’re against Pagans.

Daughter: But they’re so cute waddling their black and white bodies.

Son: Are we against Madagascar and Happy Feet too? Those movies are also about penguins.

And don’t get me started on overtly sexy costumes. Why does a wicked witch need garter belts? To hold up her black lace fishnet stockings, of course. I think the holiday greeting needs to be changed to “Trick-or-Discreet!”

Costumes are also costly. I’m as creative as the next Yenta, but shelling out $120 at Party City for a cowgirl outfit (with six inch stiletto heeled boots, mind you!) or spending major money at Michaels craft store for supplies to make an iPhone costume is ridiculous. Anyone can do that.

As far as I’m concerned, the real “Trick” in “Trick or Treating” is convincing your child they already own a fantastic costume in their closet. And it’s free.

Last year, I had my children shove heavy textbooks inside their backpacks, announcing they were dressed-up as Straight-A Students. This season I’m trying a different tactic.

Me: Hey son, wear your black and white striped shirt to the party and be a referee.

And as for you sweet girl, remember that white flower-girl dress? You’ll be a perfect Angel.

Daughter: (stamping feet) I want an Elsa costume from Frozen and I want it now.

Me: Oh good, it’s settled. You’ll go as Veruca Salt, you spoiled little brat!

I have a contingency plan if my children are determined to parade around, begging for candy. I’ll turn it into an opportunity for Tzedakah. As a bonus, we’ll help neighbors get a jumpstart on their other beloved holiday. I call it, “Reverse Trick-or-Treating.”

As doors open, my children toss a candy cane into the surprised homeowner’s sweets receptacle. Why not? Christmas decorations are in stores before the first jack-o-lantern is even carved.

Speaking of those large orange fruits from the gourd family, nothing seems to get spared from being “pumpkinized” this time of year. “Everything tastes like cinnamon potpourri or nutmeg candle wax,” I remark to my teenage daughter as I take a sip of pumpkin spice orange juice, followed by a swig of pumpkin spice mouthwash to banish the weird taste.

“I think you’re definitely gonna win $100 for most original costume,” my daughter sighs. “Because you’re a cross between Oscar The Grouch AND The Grinch.” Very perceptive, I think. But I betcha the money is orange and pumpkin scented.

STEPHANIE D. LEWIS IS A REGULAR CONTRIBUTOR TO THE HUFFINGTON POST AND WRITES A HUMOR BLOG CALLED, “ONCE UPON YOUR PRIME.” FOLLOW HER ON TWITTER @ MISSMENOPAUSE. WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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FEATURE STORY l BY DEBORAH VIETOR

g n i n n i W d r a w o T g n i rk o W d n a go g e i n i D c n a a R S , men o K .

G F i g ht i n g n a s Su

L

aura Farmer Sherman, President and CEO of Susan G. Komen San Diego was named Executive Director in 2007 and is currently celebrating 11 years as a breast cancer survivor. She is passionate about the mission of Susan G. Komen, which involves empowering women, ensuring quality care for all and engaging science to find cures.

Laura is most proud of the relationship she has developed in the community, bringing a wide range of partners together to help fund support for research–and to help those women and men in our county who are literally choosing between whether they can put food on the table or pay for a life-saving mammogram.

Recently, L’Chaim Magazine met with Sherman to discuss how the organization helps women throughout San Diego County and how we can support their efforts.

L’Chaim Magazine: Your bio describes

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

you as a survivor of breast cancer and states you joined Susan G. Komen San Diego as a volunteer in 2004. Could you please elaborate on the circumstances and why this organization has meant so much to you personally?

Laura Farmer Sherman: After being diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer in 2003, I decided that if I got better, I would figure out a way out of the Egypt I had created of my own life. I realized that the old adage that no one ever died wishing they spent more time at the office was very true of my life. Imagine–I was 42 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I just honestly felt I didn’t have the time to get a mammogram (Komen recommends women of average risk receive a mammogram every year). Having breast cancer allowed me to change my life–and find the true source of happiness at least for me–being in service to others.

L’Chaim: What do you like most about your job at Susan G. Komen?

LFS: At the end of the day, every day, I

k now that we have helped a woman and her family right here in San Diego County. Susan G. Komen San Diego steps in when the world steps out. When an uninsured or underinsured woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, we provide for every step in the care continuum from free diagnostic mammograms and biopsies to temporary financial help, meal delivery, transportation and more.

L’Chaim: What are some things women can do which are preventative regarding breast cancer?

LFS: There are 4 things we can do, first, know your history. For instance, I learned I have the BRCA2 mutation, and so that informed prevention measures I could take including having my ovaries removed.

Second, know what is normal for you. If you notice any changes, and that change is progressing or isn’t disappearing, have it checked out. Third, go to the doctor every year. (If you can’t afford it, there are many free and available services throughout San Diego County for mammograms and early screening, with information available by dialing 2-1-1.) Last, maintain a healthy

FEATURE STORY

Laura Farmer Sherman, President and CEO of Susan G. Komen - San Diego

lifestyle. Exercise, no smoking and eat a healthy, balanced diet.

L’Chaim: Regarding donations and fundraising, how much goes to the cause?

LFS: Komen San Diego is the County’s largest provider of free breast cancer services, treatments and support. We have more than $1.1 million at work today in the County. Of every dollar raised, 75 cents stays here to fund the local organizations that are providing direct services; and the remaining 25 cents funds research grants at the national level. Komen is the largest NGO provider of breast cancer research funds in the world.

L’Chaim: How is the national Susan G. Komen organization different from the San Diego location?

LFS: The national organization is solely responsible for granting and managing research grants. Komen San Diego is the expert on breast cancer in San Diego County. Every two years we take an indepth needs assessment to identify the barriers to care – and everything we do is about bridging those gaps. Everything from diagnostics and treatment to meal delivery and temporary financial aid. Where there is a gap, Komen fills it.

L’Chaim: What does Susan G. Komen do

for uninsured women?

LFS: We are the only breast cancer organization in San Diego County committed to providing free services and education for women. We remember that once someone is diagnosed, everyone in the family gets cancer. We look at the needs of families in the community and ways we can support them.

L’Chaim: How can we get involved, for instance in fundraising, volunteering, donations? How does Susan G. Komen partner with the community?

LFS: Go to our website: KomenSanDiego. org and learn about the many ways to participate. Whether as a volunteer for an event or a participant in a walk or run, there is something for everyone. Look for pink products with the ribbon logo in stores; proceeds are donated to our organization to help fund services. There are airline tickets you can purchase where Susan G. Komen San Diego is supported, miles through credit cards and articles on eBay are just some of the ways to help. We partner with the community in many ways as companies, organizations and even retail stores can place a sign in their window, donate or sponsor an event.

L’Chaim: What are some of the events are held throughout the year?

Who was Susan G. Komen?

Susan Goodman Komen was born in Peoria, Illinois in 1943 and diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 33.

She died of the disease at age 36 in 1980. Komen’s younger sister, Nancy Goodman Brinker believed her sister’s outcome might have been better if patients were more educated about cancer and treatments available. She promised her sister she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer. “It all started with a promise” became the Susan G. Komen slogan.

Brinker founded the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in 1982. In 2008, the 25th anniversary of the organization, the name was changed to Susan G. Komen for the Cure and trademarked a new logo in support of its promise “to end breast cancer forever.” The new logo is a pink ribbon resembling a runner in motion meant to reflect the importance of Komen’s signature Race For the Cure event. This is the world’s largest fund raising event for breast cancer education and research. In December 2009, Brinker was appointed CEO of the organization. Susan G. Komen is a unique organization and second only to the government in providing research and assistance in combating breast cancer.

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FEATURE STORY

LFS: There is “Go Pink” in October with many companies, restaurants and organizations participating. People show support and wear pink and wear pink ribbons, as this is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There are many companies and organizations participating in “Go Pink”, including the Hard Rock Café, La Valencia Hotel, ManPower, Mo’s Universe, the Urban Kitchen Group and Tri-City Medical Center. As a business, you can decorate your windows in pink or encourage employees to wear pink and anyone can donate. Check the website for events each month which are held countywide. Dine Out For the Cure on October 7 features restaurants throughout San Diego. Dining out at these restaurants insures donations for our organization.

Making Strides San Diego is breast cancer walk is held in Balboa Park on October 18 and anyone can volunteer through the website.

Race for the Cure is a 3-day Race held at Balboa Park on November 1. The day begins at 8 a.m. and there is a 5K and a 1-mile walk and run. Visit the I AM THE CURE booth and learn about breast self-awareness and care. There will be a “spin the wheel” for prizes. For more information about I AM THE CURE program, breast health information and ways to get personally involved, visit IAmTheCure.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO BECOME INVOLVED WITH SUSAN G. KOMEN SAN DIEGO OR HOW TO DONATE, VISIT KOMENSANDIEGO.ORG.

KOMEN’S 10-STEP ACTION PLAN INCLUDES:

1

HMO Issues – Working with Covered California to lobby for reform and teach newly-insured they are entitled to a free mammogram

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Underinsured – Offering co-payments for the first time

Don’t Have Time – Expanding free mammogram events across the County where women work, live and pray Can’t Get There – Supporting County-wide transportation programs

Cultural Barriers – Funding ground breaking cultural competency programs

Language & Literacy – Working in partnership with Live Well San Diego to provide information in all languages at appropriate levels

Financial Issues – Continuing to fund financial needs for a women’s entire length of treatment Diagnostics – Form biopsies, MRI’s and CT scans, getting breast cancer diagnosed

Lack of Support Services - Meal delivery, patient navigation and care coordination

Komen funded services are provided by the following community partners:

Jewish Family Service, 2-1-1 San Diego (For free mammograms, dial 2-1-1 to speak with a Breast Health Specialist or go to 211SanDiego.org), Research Investment, Vista Community Clinic, San Diego Medical Society Foundation, Mama’s Kitchen, San Ysidro Health Center, Council of Community Clinics and the Black Health Association San Diego.

Susan G. Komen in San Diego Every day in San Diego County 6 women are told they have breast cancer and 1 woman dies each day. African American women in San Diego have a 41% higher mortality rate than their Caucasian counterparts. Only 37% of women are aware of free treatments.

Late stage incidence rates in San Diego are as follows: African American women–51.6%; Caucasian women–48.2%; Latina women–42.6% and Asian/Pacific Islander–30%. Although these are alarming statistics, there are many things women can do to save themselves from this disease. When discovered early, the most common kind of breast cancer has a nearly 99% survival rate with the key being early detection.

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

HEADLINES

NEWS

TO KNOW

NOW WHAT WE’RE TALKING ABOUT

1

1

THE RETURN OF SHABBAT SAN DIEGO

On October 22–24, millions of Jews in over 500 cities in 65 countries around the world will join as one in celebrating a traditional, cohesive and momentous Shabbat. Locally, Shabbat San Diego, in conjunction with local congregations, community organizations, schools and youth groups coordinates a unique free three-day experience to inspire more than 20,000 Jewish San Diegans to join in and experience the uniquely joyful mind-body-spiritual restorative powers that a personally evocative Shabbat experience promotes. The goal of Shabbat San Diego is to invite every one of the 50,000 San Diego Jewish households to Shabbat dinner.

Shabbat San Diego events include a Mega Challah Bake on Thursday, October 22 at 6:30 p.m. at two locations; hosted and private Shabbat dinners on Friday October 23 following services at participating congregations, community organizations and private homes; the United Day of Rest on Saturday October 24 and Havadalah and Musical Evening, Sunday, October 25. Space is limited for some of these activities, so sign up at ShabbatSanDiego.org. More information, including donation and sponsorship opportunities can also be found online.

2

3

4

2

JNF AND LOTEM LUNCHEON

LOTEM–Making Nature Accessible is dedicated to helping people with disabilities maximize their enjoyment of nature. JNF has been a major partner of LOTEM for over a decade and is hosting a “San Diego Women For Israel Luncheon” from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 28 at the House of Israel in Balboa Park.

Join to learn more about Lotem’s newest project, Mother Nature’s Garden, a program devoted to assisting battered women and children. RSVP

by October 20 to Stacey Lewis at (858) 824-9178 ext. 964 or slewis@jnf.org.

3

BETH AM SHOWS “WE REMEMBER”

This October 18, Congregation Beth Am will present its second showing of “We Remember,” a series of video testimonies with

members of their congregation who were witnesses to the horrors of the Holocaust.

The premier showing of these videos was in April 2007. Five survivors, one now deceased, and an American soldier tell their stories through the film. Some of what they say is shocking, some is heart wrenching, some is difficult to comprehend … but all of it is real. The event and screening, which will be held at Congregation Beth Am from 3-7 p.m. October 18, are open to the public. A suggested donation of $10 per person will cover the cost of a light dairy dinner during intermission. For more information, visit BethAm. com or contact Susan Mualim at (858) 481-8454 ext. 22 or susan@betham.com.

4

CJC PRESENTS JEWISH JOKES!

The San Diego Center for Jewish Culture presents “Jewish Jokes,” starring Phil Johnson, written by Phil Johnson and Marni Freedman, and directed by David Ellenstein. The performance of this one-man show will be Monday, October 19, at 7:30 p.m.

In 1950’s Hollywood, at the height of the Communist Blacklist, when careers were ruined by a whisper, we meet irascible comedy screenwriter Bernie Lutz. Bernie, while funny and lovable, has made his way up the ladder by being a spineless Hollywood sellout. He has been asked to name names and give up his friend the night before a big red carpet premiere that will make Bernie’s career. He has one day to decide if he will name names and save his skin, or protect his friend and save his soul in the most serious decision of his life.

Tickets are $20 for JCC members and $25 for non-member adults. The performance will take place at the David and Dorothea Garfield Theatre at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center at 4126 Executive Drive in La Jolla. For tickets, contact the box office at (858) 362-1348.

WWW.LCHAIMMAGAZINE.COM

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Renaissance Village Academy ENROLLING KIDS K-8 PARTIAL DAY GRADE I K 3-5 DAYS/WEEK

9988 Hibert Street, #301 San Diego, CA 92131

858.564.9622

info@RVAschool.org www.RVASchool.org

Therapeutic Skin Care Permanent Hair Removal Electrolysis

Lynn Connolly, R.E.

16766 Bernardo Center Dr., Ste. 209a San Diego 92128

858-337-8776

www.skincarebyLynn.com

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L’CHAIM SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2015

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